Welcome to Karmeikos!
Dotting and checking in.
dotting
As you settle into your new headquarters in an ample suite on the top floor of the Lakeview Inn with an ample view of the water from a breezy balcony outside, your administrative assistant sets up a desk for Gellumniq with military dispatches on them.
The Merchant Clifton Caldwell has purchased an old Castle, Antilles Castle, five miles from Threshold. Evicting the squatters will make Caldwell more favorable to the Duke.
A renegade cleric named Elwyn has been organizing orcs three days ride to the east. Stopping him will make the local clergy more loyal to the Duke.
An elvish Merchant named Sindar needs a package delivered to his partner far to the north. This will build good will for the Feather with his elvish kin.
As soon as one of these missions is selected, it will disappear from the possible missions of the other team.
Original campaign/thread
(copied from previous thread, as it pertains to this new group I figured it was appropriate to add here as well)
The gnome listened with an attentive ear, nodding in approval at the choice of the warrior Teraldan being appointed leader of half of the group. He seemed honorable, forthright and bold, with a healthy skepticism... these were features Gellumniq could respect.
As he continued to listen, he scratched his head in confusion momentarily, then comprehension dawned on him...the Feather just proclaimed ME leader of the second group? Gee willackers, this is getting heavy! he thought to himself.
Gell would take this calling very seriously. He wasn't the most lustrous of lanterns, but he had a knack for gut-feeling and knowing which way the wind was blowing. He had his faith and his lucky crona!
The cleric of Glittergold looked around to gauge his new companions' reactions, then looked into The Feather's eyes. He took a bow. "I accept."
He looked to Teraldan. "Luck and wisdom my friend. Luck and wisdom!"
He then looked to his new group of adventurers, Let's move to our new room and discuss our next move. My new friends, I welcome any insight and wisdom you have to offer."
So, Gellumniq. When can we get started? The sooner we're out of this town and away from its stupid rules, the better I'll like it.
The dwarf, almost as wide as he is tall, moves with a grace and quickness that belie his bulk and armor as he follows the gnome into the room. "Most of the insight I be havin' to offer ye is that of my shield and axe keepin' the beasts and baddies at bay. That I will do as well as any, be certain."
The gnome looks over the three available missions with consternation. He didn't know where to start.
Choices were:
1) Clifton Caldwell's Castle, cleaning it out; aids Caldwell's favor.
2) The renegade cleric Elwyn and his orcs; aids local clergy's favor.
3) Package delivered north for the elf Sindar; aids The Feather.
*Scratches his head* "Not a big fan of orcs, no definitely not a fan. Helping to clean out a new castle, that could be good for us. That could become another safe house for our band to shelter in. Then again, delivering a package sounds easy enough, right?"
Ederet joins the others in the next room, ready to learn more.
An odd choice for a leader. Perhaps he knows something we don't?
"Glad to be a part of the team. I'm Ed, a traveler from the north."
"I believe we'd learn the most about both the Feather and the current situation if we were to deliver his package to the Elves. Having other Elves among us will help with any difficulties we may come across with them."
Greetings fellow Griffons, allow me to introduce myself. I am Arya Muir.To most i am just a traveling minstrel. Do not let that fool you I am more than capable of handling myself in a fight.
So lets get down to business. What do you think our fist action should be Gellumniq.
"Before we agree to the package mission, it would be prudent to inquire exactly where we are to carry it. I must admit that I am...less than beloved in my homeland."
So, Gellumniq. When can we get started? The sooner we're out of this town and away from its stupid rules, the better I'll like it.
"I miss my axe too. I feel better on the road than standing still anyhow."
"Before we agree to the package mission, it would be prudent to inquire exactly where we are to carry it. I must admit that I am...less than beloved in my homeland."
Raises an eyebrow and smiles. "Understood. Where is your homeland?"
""I believe we'd learn the most about both the Feather and the current situation if we were to deliver his package to the Elves. Having other Elves among us will help with any difficulties we may come across with them."
"Wise words Ederet. I agree. The first point I feel strongest about. I want to know more about this Feather fellow we're now serving."
"Most of the insight I be havin' to offer ye is that of my shield and axe keepin' the beasts and baddies at bay. That I will do as well as any, be certain."
"Alright! You know that Garl Glittergold's favored weapon is the battle axe right? I'll be swinging mine at your side."
"So lets get down to business. What do you think our first action should be Gellumniq.
"I am leaning towards the delivery. Maybe we can learn more about this Feather fella."
To the administrative secretary, "Where exactly would we deliver this...package? How far north are we talkin'?"
If the secretary has left the room, I will seek him/her out to get more details on the package delivery.
Talon got a little side tracked on his way to the other room, a lovely barmaid was making her way down the hallway carrying some linens. Talon had to stop and talk to her.
after some idle chit-chat and a resounding SLAP Talon eventually finds his way to the room.
entering rubbing his cheek a red mark starting to form.
hello all, Talon here, so I'm to travel with all of you huh? he says as he scans the room, sizing up (or down as the case may be) his new companions.
and naturally his scanning stops at Arya just as she introduces herself.
with a sly smile Talon gives her a wink.
he eventually turns his attention to the task at hand, the delivery is of course a good option, impress the employer then impress his associates.
Raises an eyebrow and smiles. "Understood. Where is your homeland?"
Caelmah replies, "In north-central Alfheim, along the River of Monsters. It probably wouldn't be a problem in Alfheim Town itself (unless there's a council meeting while we're there and we happen to run into Uncle Feremar, at least), but much farther north there could be trouble. And, at any rate, I'll have to be very circumspect using my arcane arts there; there are only so many elven mages who use bows as foci..." He smiles nervously. "But that's enough about me."
"I am Ceweldyn," the blond elf intones evenly. "You will find that I have skills that will serve us well, no matter what mission we undertake.
"And on that matter, I have no particular love of orcs. Beyond that, I suspect that there may be more to this 'simple delivery' than meets the eye. And can we be certain that the owner of this castle would allow us to make use of it having cleared it?"
Turning to Caelmah, he gives a curt nod and speaks in the elven tongue. "Fáilte, deartháir. Táim ag súil go mbeidh orainn a lán rudaí a phlé le linn ár dturas."
The assistant informs you: "The package is going to an isolated elf village in the shadows of the Grey Mountain. You will not find anyone you know there. It may be a week or two away--traveling to isolated elvish villages can take a while."
To the assistant, "You go tell the Feather that Gell's Griffons will be delivering this package. Likely that we will leave on the morrow."
If no one has any objections, we'll leave first thing in the morning.
Mungo hops up onto a chair at the table in the Gryphons' bunkhouse. "Pleased to meet all of you, friends! The name's Mungo Bumbleroot, and I daresay I'm a crackshot with my crossbow. Besides that, I'm definitely comfortable on the road, and even moreso off it. As for our missions, any of them sound good, so whatever you decide, Gellumniq!"
Caelmah returns Ceweldyn's nod.
Is there anything else we need to discuss, Gell? If not, I suggest that we adjourn. I think we should leave as early as possible tomorrow. The sooner I have Mias in my hands again, the happier I'll be.
"If anyone needs provisions or supplies, get them now. We're leavin' in the mornin'!"
The gnome finds the administrative assistant again, "We have decided on the package delivery run, but I need more details.
-When do we pick up this package?
-What's is in this package?
-Who are we delivering it to?
-Where are we delivering it to? (more specific that in the shadows of the Grey Mountain)?
-Got a map for us?"
Before retiring, Ederet offers what little advice he can for the other travelers:
"I would suggest if we will be traveling far that everyone at least bring some rations, a waterskin, a bedroll, and a whistle. We do not know how long we will have to survive outside of any towns, or what dangers we may face."
He's not quite ready to sleep yet, though, other things still on his mind.
"I never did get a chance to have a drink. Would anyone care to join me? I'm buying."
"I'll gladly join you for a drink, Ed."
"If'n ye be buyin', I be drinkin'!" the dwarf says heartily, slapping Ed firmly on the back. [b]"I got provisions fer five days, if'n it be a longer walk then that I can get more. I've no whistle though, and no thought to be gettin' one either."
"I was told the journey will be a week or two. That's...counts on his fingers,...fourteen days. That's a lot of food! Anyone here a hunter? Nothing like some fresh rabbit or wild turkey on a spit while out on the road."
"I fear I was always an indifferent tracker. However, if someone else can find it, I can shoot it. There's no way I can carry two weeks worth of rations; my pack is already about as heavy as I can manage well."
For those that join him, Ed orders a round of good berry-flavored mead and waits until the drinks are brought, tipping the waitress appropriately and waiting for her to be away from earshot before starting in on his concerns, keeping his voice quiet so as not to be overheard from farther away in the loud tavern.
"So, what do you all think of our employer? He claims to be working for the Duke, but also offers us no means to confirm this. He is probably the one that poisoned the drunk bull-man, as well. I also can't help but notice that in a town where carrying weapons or casting magic is a crime, most of those struggling to fight that unarmed man were armed with one or the other.
It just seems all too convenient to me for things to play out that way."
The administrative assistant returns after some time just after breakfast. The capable human in his late twenties seem to have a capable manner and confidence about him.
"I have made all the arrangements and hired a guide to get you up the Duke's Road to the elven community. I have procured a rough map to get you there. I have purchased packs of trail rations to last a week for each of you. The Inn has smoked a batch of fish that should a last a day before you need to eat the dried sh*&. Drink lots of water with you trail rats. You are going to Selenica--if you get lost-- ask for Selenica."
He looks at the group and shakes his head. "You just look like some folks who just met."
He hands out some dark burgundy traveling cloaks with a clasp fashioned with a gold griffon on a background of bright red. There is one for everyone.
"That is much better."
He helps Gellumniq adjust his small cloak and fit it over his armor.
He makes a shooing motion with his hands.
"Shop for anything in town and get on your way. Your guide is waiting downstairs."
After purchasing supplies, your guide turns out to be quite adept at leading you along the well-paved Duke's road. You head north and make good time, and no one dares mess with the traffic on the Duke's road--the days of lawlessness and chaos have been coming to an end. Unfortunately the foraging for food on the way has yielded no success after a week--only many sources of fresh water to replenish you drinking water and refresh yourself.
As the guide leads you through a wood, the elves recognize it as an elven wood. The beautiful elven forest sleeps peacefully about you. Leafy trees with silver and white trunks stand in blissful grandeur as far as you can see. The trail you walk on leads to the high mountains towards the north. The forest's carpet of ferns and deep green bushes is punctuated by the bright reds, blues, and yellows of abundant woodland flowers.
The sunlight reflects of armor--elven armor--lying in the path. Whoever is wearing it is not moving. His armor is crumpled and useless.
A letter is found on the dead elf:
I am an Elven maiden called Rahasia. In the Hantu Valley at the foot of Gray Mountain, our village thrived in peace for many years. Our elders tended the forest. Our youth studied and worshiped in the temple on the mountain. We made our homes in peace—but our peace is no more.
It was two weeks ago when the stranger came. He was a handsome man with deepset eyes and a soft, persuasive voice. Anyone hearing him speak was almost certainly lulled into agreement. But my Father did not trust this man, who called himself The Rahib. When he made unwanted advances toward me, my Father drove him from our village and cast him forth. It was then, as this man retreated to the forest, that The Rahib uttered such a curse that the sky darkened. In a deep, rich voice, he intoned an evil chant we could not understand.
He then vanished into the forest. The next day, the elves who study at the temple and their teachers did not return to their homes. Their families became worried and went to the temple, but were driven away by the students, known as the Siswa. My Father and Hasan, my Betrothed, went to investigate, but they have not returned.
Two days ago, we recieved a message for The Rahib. He boasted that all the devoted Siswa were under a spell that will not be broken until the village gives the Rahib three maidens, including myself. We refused. That night, the Siswa attacked and kidnapped two of my friends, Sylva and Merisa. They tried to take me as well, but I escaped. They took all our weapons and armor, leaving us even more defenseless than we already were.
All of the villagers are in misery. With the Rahib controlling the sons and fathers of our clan, there is nothing we can do. Some have begged me to give myself over to the wicked Rahib, but I dare not, lest I find that he has lied, and will not break his curse. I fear that unless we are helped I shall never again see Hasan or my Father and my friends. I have sent this message in hopes that it reaches those who would rescue them and force the Rahib to remove his curse upon the Siswa. A great reward will given anyone who can succeed in this mission. Without help, I have no choice but to give myself to the Rahib and pray that he keeps his word and releases the others.
~ Rahasia
As the group traveled along (before finding the elf) talon took the time to walk beside Arya.
So, Arya, what brings someone of your impeccable beauty and charm to these wild land?
but she will barely have time to respond before finding the elf on the road.
Lady Arya, stay by me, I have a bad feeling about this. Talon draws his bow, arrow knocked, I smell a trap
Arya started replying to talon just before she saw the elf.
My family did not ... That elf whatever got him might still be around. I have a bad feeling too, but please do not refer to me as lady, I can handle my self.
Arya opens the letter and realizes it is in elven.
Curses, its in elven. Can't read the darn thing. Was hoping to find out what we are dealing with here.
Arya draws her shortbow and looks around for anyone or thing in the woods.
Gellumniq was munching on dry rations when they came upon the armored elf lying on the forest floor. His friends Talon and Arya seemed to notice the stationary elf before anyone else. Gell quickly tucked away his hard tack and wiped crumbs from his green beard.
Looks around in suspicion, like Talon and Arya.
Kneels near the elf for a closer look, notices the crumpled armor and has a bad feeling,
"Not sure what to make of these wounds, but I think she's dead. My elven friends, come take a look at this letter." Gellumniq, not being certain that she is indeed dead, will hold aloft his Golden nugget holy symbol and channel heal in hopes that this elf woman can be saved.
Caelmah translates the letter and reads the translation aloud to the party.
Mungo leaps up and accepts the crimson cloak from the secretary, and quickly dons it. "It looks wonderful! Now we look the very part of a merry band of daring adventurers! Let us be away, friends - we are in search of adventure itself!"
A week later, Mungo is a bit less excited. A full week has passed, and nothing of any note has happened, other than he's learned that Broldun gets quite flatulent off of trail rations. He's at wits end by the time the body of the elven warrior is found, so he bounds over to look at it, listening intently as Caelmah translate the letter. "Are you sure that's a woman, Gellum? It looks more like Caelmah's and Ceweldyn's shapes than an elf maid's." He unlimbers his crossbow, just in case whatever killed the elf is still around, looking for another victim.
Ceweldyn merely raises an eyebrow at Mungo's comment. "The heroic thing to do, I suppose, is to assist this Rashasia. Besides which, I feel a compulsion to aid one of my kinfolk."
Before setting out, Arya realizes she is in the wrong group. She hands over her cloak and goes to join the tigers.
Ederet searches the elven girl's body for any other clues or anything of value, knowing that she will have not have need of such things where she is going.
"Yes, that would be the heroic thing to do. More importantly, it will give us a chance to both restock and start to build trust within the elven towns of this area. It may delay our current mission, though, possibly by a week or more."
He turns to Gellumniq and asks:
"Which path do you think we should take?"
"...I am torn. This "Rahib" in the elf lass' letter sounds like an awful sort of villain. A band of adventurers with talents like us could really help these elves.
I want to help these elves, but I can't ignore that our first allegiance is to The Feather and the job he gave us. Who knows how important the package we bring might be? For all we know, bringing this package late could cost lives."
Gellumniq scratches his head with a look of consternation, while rolling his lucky silver crona across his fingers in a spider-like motion. After several silent moments of thought, he gets a determined look in his eye.
"We don't know for certain that this package being delayed will cost lives, but we do know that this Rahib running free is harming a village and likely costing lives. If the package delivery is close by, then I say we deliver it and then seek this elven village in the Hantu Valley. I welcome anyone's counsel.
Does anyone here know where this Gray Mountain is?"
Gellumniq eyes his party members, and then looks to their guide.
"Friend guide, how much further is the delivery to take place? We've gone a week from Threshold, and our master said the journey would be a week or two. Is this Gray Mountain on the way?"
The guide shrugs and replies: "I will leave you now as the Elven Village of Selinica is just a few days further. And you can't miss finding the Duke's Road to return to Threshold. You want to deliver the package to a Merchant named Arnulf."
He adds: "We are in the area known as the gray mountains, the domain of the elves and, under the ground, some dwarves. I think you got this one, I will tell those in Threshold you made it to elven territory."
He waves goodbye as he leaves.
As you approach the nearby village, the elven dwellings mirror the grace of their people. The faces of the villages mirror their sadness. An elven maid appears after moving gracefully through her people and her beauty outshines the stars--she introduces herself as Rahasia. She asks simply: "Will you aid me?"
The dwarf puffs his chest out, hooking is thumbs in his belt and says,"I say that the package can wait, and this lass be needin' help now. If'n the package were so urgent, we shoulda been told such. If'n the boss thinks otherwise, he ain't the sort that Broldun Rockspike will be workin' fer."
Agreed, Broldun.
"Ar ndóigh, beidh muid ag cabhrú, mo bhean." Ceweldyn replies, taking the elven woman's hand.
The elven villagers hand Ceweldyn a detailed map and caution the group" "The Siswan often attack us on the way to the temple."
The map shows a path winding past a roadside shrine up the hills through the forest to a temple sit into the side of the gray mountain. The roadside shrine is less than a quarter of a mile from the village, and the temple less than a half mile. It is quite a short journey. The villagers offer to keep your horses if you would like.
As Rahasia leads you to the temple she stops at the roadside shrine to burn some incense. The shrine is open to the west and is about fifteen feet square on a side with two ten feet square alcoves in the north and south walls. Before the northern alcove is a strong looking man in a beard sitting on an altar. Rahasia informs you that the statue is of Elayas, a mage of great power and founder of the Quiet Way. "Outsiders are expected to not disgrace the Old One by walking past his gaze or disturb him in any way."
In the common tongue, "My fair lady Rahasia, we found this letter on the road back that way. I am glad we were passing through. We'll be happy to help you.
We are Gellumniq's Griffons, friends to goodly folk like yourself. These...siswa... they are of your village? Can we expect them to fight us?
Your father and brother are missing? How will we know'em when we see 'em?"
Are there any injured here among your people?
Gellumniq is intrigued by this shrine to the old mage, but will keep his distance in light of Rahasia's request to not disturb it or walk in front of the statue's gaze. Being an outsider, he has no reason to act otherwise.
While the elf maiden burns her ritual incense, Gell will look around and keep an eye out for trouble, since the map shows that his troop was very close indeed to this temple.
Rahasia speaks in Traladaran: "The Siswa are possessing the bodies of elves. They will want to fight you. I would hope the elves do not have to be killed!"
"We have no injured, and my father and brother will have belts with silver buckles with a forest leaf on it."
Do you investigate the wayside chapel or proceed to the temple? Do you look past the statue or move there?
"But what are the Siswa? Ghosts? Demons? Ghost demons?"