Lucendar's Legacy of Fire PbP

Game Master Lucendar


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After some time, Dumah finally regains use of his tongue. He asks Jameena numerous questions about Father Ismael and his surroundings, an attempt to confirm she is who she says she is, perhaps thinly veiled.

Once comfortable that she is in fact sincere, he'll prompt Eli to pass the evening talking over the Sand Stalkers' history together so far with others pitching in here or there to fill in details, and pausing for toasts to the fallen at the appropriate times.

Finally, Dumah says We won't be here long. We must leave soon to deal with the Carrion King. After sending the assassin Lynxian after us, we need to take the fight to him.


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Despite the obvious stares and awkward silences, Jameena shows no sign of embarrassment or discomfort. You get the distinct impression that she is used to invoking this reaction, and even though she is well aware of how her beauty affects the men in front of her, she is far to polite to let it show.

When Tyronel speaks to her, she sends the archer a warm smile. You are most kind, Master Tyronel. I may lack the might of stronger warriors, but with the aid of my goddess, my scimitar cuts deep nonetheless. I have heard the tale of how you helped drive off the demon that slew poor Brebork. A most impressive feat. I hope that you might teach me to make my arrows strike as surely.

It is obvious that Janeena has been given descriptions of you detailed enough to recognize you on sight. She answers the questions of Dumah accurately and reveals knowledge about the fight at the temple of Nethys that only Haidar could have told her.

If she sees through the purpose of the questions, she does not show it for a moment, but maintains a friendly and cheerful demeanor. Once Dumah is done, she shrugs off her pack, sending small puffs of desert dust flying around her.

I think the main reason Father Ismael sent me here was to ensure that he would not have to give any of you the treatment he gave noble Quzman here. It is good to see you recovered fully from you visit to the realm of the dead. And I must say, the mark of the Dawnflower suits your forehead, she says with a smile. Now, could I have a bit of water and a place to freshen up before we move on? It has been a long ride from Katapesh, and I must admit I am a bit weary after so many hours in the saddle.


Male Human Unchained Monk 6 | AC 21/21/17 | HP 66/66 | F+7, R+10, W+7 | Evasion | +2 on saves v. Enchantment spells and effects | Immune to all diseases, magical and supernatural | Init. +4; Perception +12 | CMD 27 | Speed 50'.

"Um, sure. Barkeep, water for the lady please!" Ty excitedly requests, stumbling over himself trying to get to the drawn water to take to the paladin. He was still beet red, especially after receiving a compliment from the pretty lady. "There are several establishments in town where you can get a good night's rest," Ty says, describing the inns in town to Jameena, as best as he could through the stammering and stuttering.


Jameena also produces a signed letter of introduction from Ismael with an official seal of the Chapel of Sarenrae in Katapesh to quell any issues of trickery or deception.


The influx of merchant traffic and visitors to Kelmarane has been quite hectic, as the 1-year anniversary approaches. In fact, as Jameena arrives, the festivities are but 2 days away. Garavel met with the party 2 weeks back after their arrival to hear of their adventures. He was also aware that the party wanted to go after the Carrion King after he sent an assassin after them but he convinced the party to stay until at least after the celebration, just to be safe.

Two days pass quickly, as the party (mainly Tyronel!) shows Jameena around town and acquaints her with the village and its eclectic people. Everyone becomes quickly enamored with the new arrival's beauty and charisma.

The day of the anniversary arrives and stalls are set up for displays of food, fire-breathers, exotic gypsy belly dancing, and fireworks. Everyone has a good time and much praise is heaped on the Sand Stalkers, with Garavel and Princess Almah being the keynote speakers. Jameena, if she likes, shows off her dancing, which everyone loves. The party drinks it all in, in moderation, and thankfully, nothing disrupts the festivities.

As you sleep that night, you are awakened by the distant sound of a large yelping howl, the Howl of the Carrion King from the Pale Mountain, a sound you have not heard since your time in the monastery before the liberation of Kelmarane. You spring to action but no attack comes and you return to bed, uneasy about what the future brings.

Needed to fast forward there a little, feel free to rp any of the events that just passed, including the anniversary party.


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

Eli seems a bit distracted when Jameena arrives, often looking at his forearm, or scratching it while staring off in thought. When Tyronel calls for a drink, Eli strolls around behind the bar and pours tall glass of chilled water for the priestess. "Here you go Miss Jameena, forgive our distrust and thank you for bringing a letter from our friend Ismael. We have dealt with a great deal over the past few days and we have been on edge. The so called Carrion King fears our presence, and would see us skewered on spits or buried in a deep unmarked grave. You and your gifts are most welcome here, but beware it is a dangers path you are beginning to tread. Please feel free to make yourself at home here. My Innkeep, Kyle will prepare you a room and can get you anything you need. Tonight I shall tell our epic tale, but first a good meal and I believe April owes me a song."

Eli will tend to Inn matters for the rest of the afternoon and then attend the meal at the inn. After eating he will try to coax April into performing and then he will perform his Epic Tale of the Sand Stalkers.

Somepoint over the next two days he will confide in Dumah the vision of the mold he saw seeking if the wizard has any insight on to what it might mean. He also will try to research and uncover for himself what it could mean. Take 20 on all applicable knowledge checks

**********

The festiveness had been grand, Eli had enjoyed himself despite the heavy things weighing on his heart. The dark thoughts had all but disappeared until laying in his bed he heard the howling cry. Leaping form his bed, and donning his adventures gear quickly, he rushes out into the streets with Tempest at the ready. When no attack comes he climbs to the roof of Kyra's Place and glares to the mountains, "It is time we end this.


Tyronel wrote:
While we are back to town, Ty needs to restock on arrows, getting back up to his usual 50. I'll subtract the gold to get him there.

You dont need to spend any coin, we have 156 arrows in stock that we have collected on our adventures. Let me know how many you need to take and I will adjust our treasure record.


Dumah furrows his eyebrows at Eli's vision. Let me consider this. If any possibilities come to mind, I'll share them with you immediately.

Does anything come to mind? I have no idea what's happening to him, so maybe one of these might help?

Spoiler:

Craft Alchemy 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Knowledge Arcana 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32
Knowledge Dungeoneering 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15
Knowledge History 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Knowledge Nature 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
Knowledge Planes 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (14) + 13 = 27
Knowledge Religion 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31
Spellcraft 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Jameena thanks Eli for the water, and takes a seat at the table. She sips the cold water with a small sigh of pleasure, and listens intently to Eli's storytelling. After the tale and meal is done, she bids the Sand Stalkers a good night and retires to the room Kyle shows her.

The following days, she spends most of her time at the church, helping with the daily duties and tending any sick or injured people. In the evening, she socializes with the Sand Stalkers, trading tales and small-talk. She is as always charming and cheerful, but doesn't talk much about herself or her past. Instead, she takes a great interest in the stories and feats of the group, both the living and the dead.

On the day of the festival, she enjoys the sights and happily displays her skill as a dancer. For this occasion, she dons an elaborate dancing outfit, which naturally enhances her beauty much more than the armor she usually wears. She moves to the music like a feather floating on a desert breeze, and for every dance the crowd of spectators grow. For the grand finale, she brings out her magic scimitar and spins it about her at an ever increasing pace while she twirls and jumps. The display is breathtaking, and it is easy to see how the slender woman can be deadly in a fight. When the music ends, she stands silently in the firelight, her chest heaving and beads of sweat running down her face and arms. Her eyes gaze at something far away, until the cheers of the crowd shake her from her trance-like state. She bows politely and retires for the night.

When the howl of the Carrion King wakes them, she is on the streets in moments, armored and scimitar in hand. When no enemies appear, she spends some time comforting the frightened villagers, especially the children. Her dark eyes shine with righteous wrath when she looks toward the Pale Mountain.


One evening when the Sand Stalkers are gathered for dinner, Dumah will quietly raise a discussion.

My friends, I believe it is time for us to act. The howl that split the night air, you all know the one I mean, was a warning and a reminder. If we do not take the fight to the Carrion King, he will certainly bring it to us. It is easy for us to become complacent here among friends and a community that has grown into our family. But we need to act. We should leave soon. Very soon. What do you say?

Did we ever determine what we were going to do with the dagger? Did we want to sell it?


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Jameena takes a back seat in the discussion, but fully agrees that an active response would be a good idea.

You know this area better than I. Any idea where to start? What about this mysterious assassin you fought? Perhaps his possessions could lend some clue to where he came from.


HP 63/63; AC: 25(23)/15/21(19); F+7/R+9/W+4; Init: +3 (+5); Percep: +11 (+13)

Quzman returns from his extensive patrols the morning of the anniversary celebration. He makes his way towards Kyra's Place to find his friends, after being out in the wilds, and to finally get a hot meal. He notices the new face in the crowd near the rest of the Stalkers. "Well met friends", as he nods to his friends, "it's good to be back. I hear the Princess has organized quite the celebration for the evening."

Upon seeing the symbol on the newcomer's armor he bows slightly towards her, "May the Dawn always shine upon you, sister.", before continuing on towards the table with the rest of his friends.

In regards to the dagger, Quzman would probably have voted to send it with Dharda to the temple in Katapesh to see if the priests there could have removed the curse or destroyed it keep it from preying on other unwary people.


Dumah wrote:
Dumah furrows his eyebrows at Eli's vision. Let me consider this. If any possibilities come to mind, I'll share them with you immediately.

Dumah and Eli immediately recognize the mold that appears on his hand as the one that engulfed Eli in the laboratory in the monastery, but Dumah's never heard of any such type of mold activity.

For Dumah:
Dumah knows of high level magic that presumably gives you visions when casting. Other possible theories that jump to mind:

Perhaps the mold is a curse?
Perhaps the mold is sentient?
Perhaps Eli is possessed?
Perhaps the mold and the strange voice that Eli sometimes channels are connected, since his "possession" began shortly after being engulfed by the mold?


Great rping guys, could picture the scenes of your reactions after the Howl! As I always say, your rping inspires and motivates me!

The morning after the anniversary is a hectic one. Many of the villagers and out of town guests are noticeably afraid and panicked, naively believing that the Carrion King would leave them alone. However, the Howl brought home the truth that anytime their little village which they have built could be overrun by gnolls. Jameena and Eli's diplomatic skills help calm the people down, but the fear is obvious in their faces.

April's question to Eli that morning as the party eats breakfast at Kyra's Place brings the truth crashing down on the party: "Uncle Eli, the bad hyena men are still out there, aren't they?"

After breakfast, the Sand Stalkers and Jameena are summoned to the Palace by Garavel and the Princess, while Kyle gives April a big hug, telling her "Don't worry sweetie, the Sand Stalkers will save the day!" April waves to the party as you head toward the palace.


Male Human Unchained Monk 6 | AC 21/21/17 | HP 66/66 | F+7, R+10, W+7 | Evasion | +2 on saves v. Enchantment spells and effects | Immune to all diseases, magical and supernatural | Init. +4; Perception +12 | CMD 27 | Speed 50'.

Ty had returned to his more silent persona after hearing the Howl the night before. Other than a curt nod to the others as they make their way to the palace, he doesn't have much if anything to say. All of them knew what was out there, and all of them knew what must be done.


"How'd you all sleep?" Garavel asks with a little sarcasm, as you enter the Palace's "war room". You can clearly see bags under his eyes and can tell he has not slept much, probably none after the howl. You see him leaning over a big circular table, covered with very different regional and topographical maps of the area. Two administrators constantly come in and out of the room, bringing up more dusty chests and searching through old books. "Jameena, a pleasure to have you here. I saw you at the party last night. Great dance moves! Right, Tyronel?" Garavel smiles, as he takes a puff of his cigar, eying the archer. "Well, I've been studying these maps ever since the howl, trying to find a way to ram a spear up the Carrion King's a$$ to see if that makes him howl a different tune, but I can find no entry routes up the Pale Mountain that won't get my men or you massacred. It is said he has a base in the mountain, but that's past all the natural predators there and all the tribes he is rumored to be gathering. How many of them are there again, Jahail?" One of the administrators, a rather obese bald man in his 40's dressed in robes, looks up from his book and says, "Four gnoll tribes plus his own, my dear sir, from our last intelligence report thanks to our fine warrior Quzman. There's the Al'Chorhaiv, the The Circle, Three Jaws, and Wormhollow, sir. We have scant information on them, sir, at present, other than they are supposed to be quite numerous." Garavel sighs, "Great intelligence report, there. Numerous! Yes, that helps a lot." Jahail bows sheepishly and moves to a corner, continuing his research.

Garavel continues, "Well, warriors, if we stay put any longer, I fear they may bring the war to us. We need to cut off this snake's head off for good and let the tribes go back to bickering among themselves. This Carrion King must die. But his base is so defensible. A straight path through gnoll territory would be very difficult, if not suicide. What do you say about all of this?"


HP 63/63; AC: 25(23)/15/21(19); F+7/R+9/W+4; Init: +3 (+5); Percep: +11 (+13)

Quzman frowns slightly at Garavel's familiarity with the holy woman, but says nothing. When it turns to the discussion of the gnoll lair, Quzman's eyes gain a glean of eagerness. Nodding in agreement with Jahail's assessment, Quzman coughs lightly as Garavel comes to a close. "I have been as close to the mountain as any have who do not walk with the king. I agree that a frontal assault against such a fortress will be suicidal. However, we might be able to come close to the mountain away from the gnoll's stronghold and quietly stealth along the cracks and overhangs of the mountainside."

After speaking so much in a short period time, Quzman looks around to his friends for their opinions and ideas. "I have no wish to use a spear as Garavel thinks best. However, I feel he is completely beyond redemption for his past deeds. I desire to remove his head from his flea ridden shoulders to give Kelmarane a chance to truly finish it's rise from the ashes."


Perhaps Undrella knows a way, or can scout a way by air for us?


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Jameena smiles at Garavel's comments about her dancing.

Thank you, Master Garavel. I rarely have time to dance these days, and I am glad I have not lost all my skills. I used to perform in Ali Hamza's troupe of entertainers when I was a young girl. Those were...happier times.

Knowledge (local) DC 20:

Ali Hamza's troupe of traveling entertainers was a fairly popular show that regularly toured the major cities of Katapesh. It was well known for featuring a number of beautiful and talented dancers. The entire troupe vanished suddenly about five years ago. Rumor has it that most of the members were slaughtered in some sort of attack while crossing the desert.

Sense motive DC 20:

There is a subtle hint of sadness in Jameena's voice and eyes as she mentions Ali Hamza's troupe. Although she talks of happy days, you get the feeling that not everything about the troupe brings back pleasant memories for Jameena.

The spoilers contain a bit of the info from my background notes in my profile, so it is merely a chance to gain some IC knowledge about Jameena and her past.

As the talk turns to the strategic planning, Jameena stays silent and listens carefully, not having much to add to the discussion.


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

Eli takes April onto his lap weary from being up most the night, "Don't you fret any about those baddies. The Sand Stalkers are going to put and end to them once and for all. Amir and Samir will be here looking our for the village while we are gone. Keep working on your singing for I will want to here another original ballad when I return." Putting April down he gives her a comforting hug and smile before heading off to meet in the "war room".

After hearing the report Eli says, "Our best efforts to assault the mountain head on would be foolish indeed. I agree with Dumah, though she disgusts me she has been honorable, the harpy may be of use here. We need to strike and hide as we did taking Kelmarane. Quzman, do you know of a place near or in the mountains we could establish a hide out?"

I vote we hang on to the dagger for now, it has some unknown powers that I think we need to uncover before we lose track of it. I suggest that Dumah hang onto tucked away in a safe place. Ty, how many arrows did you need from our reserves?


Male Human Unchained Monk 6 | AC 21/21/17 | HP 66/66 | F+7, R+10, W+7 | Evasion | +2 on saves v. Enchantment spells and effects | Immune to all diseases, magical and supernatural | Init. +4; Perception +12 | CMD 27 | Speed 50'.

I only needed about 10 of the arrows, so just mark those off, if you don't mind. And we probably need to let Jameela know there is a big bad helping us in the village. Not sure if she is going to like that very much.

Turning to Jameela, Ty mentions in as calm a manner as possible, "Yeah, the Undrella that Dumah mentioned is a harpy, and she lives in the village. Don't worry, she is a, well, I guess you could call her a friend. She wanted a safe place to stay and be well fed (on animals and the stray gnoll), and in exchange for allowing her to remain here, she helps defend the village from attack from the gnolls while we are away. Suprisingly, she is quite pleasant, if a bit vain. She might be a little jealous of your ...attributes in that area."


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Yes, I had heard tell of your unlikely ally. I am pleased to see a creature who is evil by nature help secure the village. It strengthens my faith in the Dawnflower's teachings that few creatures are truly beyond redemption - although I believe the Carrion King and his followers are too far gone for salvation. And if my appearance displeases her, i will do my best to keep out of her way.


As Garavel is about to speak, Jahail, who is standing by the window, interrupts, "Uhhhhh, Mayordomo, I think you all need to see this!". As you approach the window, which looks out onto the village and entry to the Palace, you see a crowd of onlookers surrounding a 7' tall bald human dressed in crimson traveling robes wielding a walking staff walking toward the palace. As he gets closer, you notice a crimson tattoo on his forehead depicting the holy symbol of Sarenrae. When he reaches the gate to the Palace, he sees you in the window and shouts, "I, a prophet of Sarenrae, seek an audience with the Sandstalkers urgently. I have had a terrible vision about the Carrion King!" The crowd's fear is apparent when the gnoll king is mentioned.


Eli!

Spoiler:
Dumah whispers to Eli "We need to put on a show of strength to calm the people. Let's have the five us approach the prophet and bring him inside. Perhaps you could make a declaration along the lines of we've been looking for news on the Carrion King so we could deal with him, etc. You know much better than I what should be said."


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

Eli nods in agreement with Dumah, "This could be another trick so we must proceed with caution. Quzman will you go invite our unexpected guest inside so we can hear what he has to say? Jameena, would you please go with him? We must be sure he is sincere and you would be best to uncover if he truly speaks with the Dawnflowers words. If he is a fraud then we must be prepared to take him captive. Ty, Dumah, take of positions at the windows so we can support them if this goes bad. I will make an announcement to help calm the people."

If everyone agrees to the plan Eli will wait a short time, allowing Quzman and Jameena time to get outside and for the others to get ready. Then he will go the window and call out in his clear stage voice. If anyone objects to this plan, Eli will stop before giving the following speech.

"Greetings Prohpet, I am the one known as Eli Wynnstock of the renown Sand Stalkers. Fear not citizens, the Sand Stalkers are familiar with the humble servants of Sarenrae and hold in high regard those whom the Dawnflower would send in consul. The Pale Mountain has been a shadow over Kelmarane far too long. Mark my words friends...neighbors, the Sand Stalkers will deal with this self proclaimed King and the flea infested hounds that follow him. The Sand Stalkers are eager to hear of the visions your goddess would provide, how is it that you would be known to us Prophet?"

Eli will stay in the window and watch for any signs of trouble from either the prophet or someone in the crowd.

Perception Check 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19


Tyronel wrote:
I only needed about 10 of the arrows, so just mark those off, if you don't mind.

Okay, I took ten off our total. We still have 146 arrows left.


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

Jameena follows Quzman outside and makes her way through the crowd to the prophet.

Blessings of our goddess upon you, prophet. Follow us inside, please. We are eager to hear what the Dawnflower has revealed to you.

Sense Motive to evaluate his reaction to seeing a paladin of Sarenrae. 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6


Eli Wynnstock wrote:

"Greetings Prohpet, I am the one known as Eli Wynnstock of the renown Sand Stalkers. Fear not citizens, the Sand Stalkers are familiar with the humble servants of Sarenrae and hold in high regard those whom the Dawnflower would send in consul. The Pale Mountain has been a shadow over Kelmarane far too long. Mark my words friends...neighbors, the Sand Stalkers will deal with this self proclaimed King and the flea infested hounds that follow him. The Sand Stalkers are eager to hear of the visions your goddess would provide, how is it that you would be known to us Prophet?"

Eli will stay in the window and watch for any signs of trouble from either the prophet or someone in the crowd.

The figure responds, "You may call me Qadir of the House of the Ram. Blessings of the Dawnflower upon all of you.". The crowd calms upon hearing Eli's words and you hear murmurs of good fortune with a prophet in Kelmarane. Qadir, whom towers over the villagers, follows Quzman and Jameera inside, while he bids farewell to the people. A small crowd of about 30 stays gathered outside the palace gate.


Jameena Al'Qadr wrote:

Jameena follows Quzman outside and makes her way through the crowd to the prophet.Blessings of our goddess upon you, prophet. Follow us inside, please. We are eager to hear what the Dawnflower has revealed to you.

Sense Motive to evaluate his reaction to seeing a paladin of Sarenrae. 1d20+4

Qadir smiles when he sees Quzman. "Ah, yes, the famed Badawi ranger. Eli the bard, Dumah the mage, Ty the archer. Your names are so known to me. But you, my dear, is there a new member? And a holy warrior of Sarenrae as well! The Sand Stalkers are truly blessed!". Qadir's reactions appear genuine to the paladin.

Garavel suggests meeting the prophet in the conference room where food and drink are quickly brought for all present.


HP 63/63; AC: 25(23)/15/21(19); F+7/R+9/W+4; Init: +3 (+5); Percep: +11 (+13)

The plan seems sound to me.

Quzman goes to escort the holy man inside. Bowing deeply to the prophet, "Your holiness, I am Quzman and this is Jameera, we are both warriors in the service of the Dawnflower. Please, let us escort you inside where we can speak with the rest of our companions and the princess' people." Taking a rear position he directs the man inside to conference room.


Male Human Unchained Monk 6 | AC 21/21/17 | HP 66/66 | F+7, R+10, W+7 | Evasion | +2 on saves v. Enchantment spells and effects | Immune to all diseases, magical and supernatural | Init. +4; Perception +12 | CMD 27 | Speed 50'.

Sarenrae is taking over this place. Hope I'm still on decent terms wtih her, Ty thinks as he follows the group into the secure location.


Tyronel wrote:
Sarenrae is taking over this place. Hope I'm still on decent terms wtih her, Ty thinks as he follows the group into the secure location.

Dumah exchanges a glance with Ty, and suspects they are thinking the same thing. I suppose better Sarenrae than some of the other choices here he thinks, with a glance to the distant mountain.


Qadir follows the party to the conference room, where he bows in great honor to the adventurers and Garavel. He drinks some water but refuses to sit, saying that due to his height, he does not feel comfortable sitting in such small chairs and he walks around the room. As he does so, he tells his tale:

"I am a traveler of the sand and scrub, a student of all things Sarenrae sees fit to shine upon, and an unwilling bearer of bad news, I am afraid. You see, I was a misfit as a child due to my height, called a freak by my peers and country folk, banished to walk the sands, until Sarenrae touched me in a dream. Now, I travel the lands and spread the word when I am compelled to do so. I have walked the billowing sands of Osirion, the westernmost veldt of Nex, and much of our own beloved Katapesh in between. I have seen much in my travels, and have brought the word and redemption of the Dawnflower to many. Yet also have I seen much in the way of cruelty and war in those travels, and it is a warning of such I bring to you today. You have distinguished yourselves by defeating the Kuldis. You know that word of the liberation of Kelmarane has reached all the way to the coast by now, and you are enjoying the fruits of that success even as we speak in the form of trade and tax. Yet word spreads not only to friends, but also to enemies. The Carrion King knows of what you’ve done to the Kuldis."

Qadir stops to drink water, as he walks about the room and then continues: "And though he did not reply in kind at once, I have heard dire rumors in my travels. Rumors of gnoll tribes gathering on the far slopes of Pale Mountain, tribes united under one banner— the sign of the Carrion King! “My path is not one of war. Sarenrae teaches redemption and forgiveness, but I know well that many do not seek these
ends, and that war is often inevitable. Yet sometimes, there are other ways. The gnolls are ever a bickering lot, and if the Carrion King has managed to unite these tribes, then his word is mighty indeed. And although I despair to think on the death of any living creature, if the Carrion King’s death would mean that the gnoll tribes would stand down—a war could be averted. And so I bring this news to you. I shall not stay long, for I have no desire to be caught up in the folly of battle. But you would do well, heroes, to take my warning to heart. Seek out the Carrion King and bring him low before he raises high the flags of war. You will find him in the House of the Beast, the rumors say, an ancient temple upon the far side of Pale Mountain from which he has long ruled. May your efforts be swift and just, that needless suffering be averted."

"Now, considering your gifts, I am sure none of what I have told you today may come as news or a surprise and you may have already thought of it yourselves. But I've had a dream, a vision from I can only guess must be Sarenrae. The way to the Carrion King is not through the path of murderous gnoll tribes that protect his temple but another way. I saw in my vision that the mountain had teeth and was surrounded by green smoke and the way through followed a path of fire. It is then that I woke with a clear mission to seek out you fine warriors. It is why I am here and now that I have completed my mission, I shall continue to walk the desert, wherever it may lead me. Good luck warriors."

Qadir puts the glass down and appears to be headed toward the door.


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

Eager to hear what the prophet has to say, Eli listens to Qadir tell his tale. As the giant begins to leave the bard speaks up, "Friend Qadir, please before you travel on let us show our gratitude to you. If it would please you, come to my establishment have a fresh made meal and restock your supplies. Your vision is vague, and I would be most gracious to you for helping us interrupt its meaning over the meal. A one time companion of ours, Brebork, was a priest of Sarenrae and from what little time I had to know him I did learn some of his trust in the Dawnflower. It would seem to me that the goddess would not have entrusted you with this vision if she did not mean for you to help reveal its nature. Would you care to rest your feet some before continuing your long walk?"

Versatile Performance Diplomacy Check 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23


Dumah will lean over to Quzman, speaking quietly, but not so quiet that anyone couldn't hear if they wanted to.

In your patrols, have you encountered anything that would make you think of his clues? A mountain with teeth? Green smoke? A path of fire? I'm trying to recall if I've read about any such thing... Or of any natural phenomenon that might create them...

Knowledge Dungeoneering 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
Knowledge Geography 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16
Knowledge History 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21
Knowledge Nature 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10


Eli Wynnstock wrote:
Eager to hear what the prophet has to say, Eli listens to Qadir tell his tale. As the giant begins to leave the bard speaks up, "Friend Qadir, please before you travel on let us show our gratitude to you. If it would please you, come to my establishment have a fresh made meal and restock your supplies. Your vision is vague, and I would be most gracious to you for helping us interrupt its meaning over the meal. A one time companion of ours, Brebork, was a priest of Sarenrae and from what little time I had to know him I did learn some of his trust in the Dawnflower. It would seem to me that the goddess would not have entrusted you with this vision if she did not mean for you to help reveal its nature. Would you care to rest your feet some before continuing your long walk?"

"What a grand idea! I am famished. May we go now, with all due respect to the Princess' representative, of course?"

Garavel does not object.


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

"Come then let us break our fast, Garavel your are welcome to join us as always." Eli will then lead the group to the Inn for a fresh cooked breakfast and some conversation about the vision. Once everyone is finished eating he asks, "So Qadir, what do you think the signs contained in your vision mean?"


Dumah wrote:

Dumah will lean over to Quzman, speaking quietly, but not so quiet that anyone couldn't hear if they wanted to.

In your patrols, have you encountered anything that would make you think of his clues? A mountain with teeth? Green smoke? A path of fire? I'm trying to recall if I've read about any such thing... Or of any natural phenomenon that might create them...

For Dumah:
You have heard of a place in this region called the Stone Maw, a mountain rising above a dormant volcano but you have no idea where it is.

Eli Wynnstock wrote:
"Come then let us break our fast, Garavel your are welcome to join us as always." Eli will then lead the group to the Inn for a fresh cooked breakfast and some conversation about the vision. Once everyone is finished eating he asks, "So Qadir, what do you think the signs contained in your vision mean?"

Kyra's Place fills up as Qadir and the adventurers sit down to eat. Qadir eats heartily. "Not my job to interpret, Eli. I am only a messenger. I do not question my purpose in this world and you should not question yours,to defeat the Carrion King and break up the gnoll alliance. The gods wish it so. Do you believe?"


HP 63/63; AC: 25(23)/15/21(19); F+7/R+9/W+4; Init: +3 (+5); Percep: +11 (+13)

Quietly to Dumah, "I will ponder this, it does sound vaguely familiar."

Know(geog):1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24
Survival:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29 (thinking of caves or secret paths I may have found during patrols)

As we dine with Qadir, "I believe the Dawnflower had a purpose for me, when she blessed me with another chance to affect the outcomes on this realm. What is was, I am not certain, though I do believe that removing this threat to civilization that this beast represents. With the aid of my friends, and faith in the Everlight showing the way, we shall be able to defeat this beast. Once we dispense with the head, the body shall fail. At least this is my belief. Tell me friends, what say you?" Taking a long drink from his glass of wine he settles back to hear the comments of his companions while gently scratching behind Kyra's ear.


Male Human Unchained Monk 6 | AC 21/21/17 | HP 66/66 | F+7, R+10, W+7 | Evasion | +2 on saves v. Enchantment spells and effects | Immune to all diseases, magical and supernatural | Init. +4; Perception +12 | CMD 27 | Speed 50'.

"We have known this day was coming. If we could find a steathly way, rather than fighting through a multitude of gnolls, I say we take advantage of it."


Dumah nods and quietly says Yes. I believe we should leave within a day, and discreetly in case the town is being watched. Now that we have clues to use when looking for a secret entrance, we can scout the area and hopefully give the Carrion King a surprise he'll never forget.


hp 55/55 AC: 26/17/21 F +5 R +11 W +6 {+4 vs bards/sonic/lang; +1 vs traps} Initiative + 4; Perception +9

"It is hard to say what I believe, I'm not sure I know myself. What I do know, is that the Carrion King will fall to our hands for the trouble that he has caused. I asked you to aid in interpreting with hope that your experience in understanding the symbols of the Dawnflower will help us understand the whole of the vision. For instance, is the color green symbolic of anything or does the image of smoke have any traditional understanding for those who follow Sarenrae?"


HP 63/63; AC: 25(23)/15/21(19); F+7/R+9/W+4; Init: +3 (+5); Percep: +11 (+13)

In regards to Eli's query about green and the goddess, personally I am not sure.
Know(religion):1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Edit: From that roll, I'm assuming Quzman's clueless too :)


hp 61/61, AC 22/15/17, F +13 R +12 W +11 Init: +4, Perception: +0

I don't know about a mountain with teeth or green smoke, but a path of flame sounds like a sign of the Dawnflower. I have no idea what any of this might mean, but I have faith that if we go out there, Sarenrae will show us the way. Waiting here for a horde of those monsters to overrun us is certainly not the way to go.

Lucendar, in case you missed it, i dropped a question about xp in the discuission thread.


Quzman Garhani wrote:

Quietly to Dumah, "I will ponder this, it does sound vaguely familiar."

Know(geog):1d20+11
Survival:1d20+11 (thinking of caves or secret paths I may have found during patrols)

For Quzman:
You may read Dumah's spoiler and not only do you exactly where the Stone Maw is, you have heard of a cave system underneath it. It is directly west of Pale Mountain.

Master Quzman, in your patrols, have you heard of a place called the Stone Maw? I read about it at some point, a mountain over a dormant volcano, but I'm not sure where its at. When our prophet friend mentioned a mountain with teeth, it made me recall that text... Bah, but if I can't remember where it is, I suppose it does us little good.


Eli Wynnstock wrote:
"It is hard to say what I believe, I'm not sure I know myself. What I do know, is that the Carrion King will fall to our hands for the trouble that he has caused. I asked you to aid in interpreting with hope that your experience in understanding the symbols of the Dawnflower will help us understand the whole of the vision. For instance, is the color green symbolic of anything or does the image of smoke have any traditional understanding for those who follow Sarenrae?"

Qadir laughs, "Ah, my dear bard, you over-think things. Sometimes green smoke in a dream is just that, green smoke! And by the way, who is this gorgeous female? I did not hear about her during my travels. Is she a new member?"

IMAGE OF QADIR
Sorry it took me so long to post pic!


Dumah wrote:
Master Quzman, in your patrols, have you heard of a place called the Stone Maw? I read about it at some point, a mountain over a dormant volcano, but I'm not sure where its at. When our prophet friend mentioned a mountain with teeth, it made me recall that text... Bah, but if I can't remember where it is, I suppose it does us little good.

Qadir looks impressed. "Dumah, your reputation as the learned one of the group does not do you justice. The Stone Maw? That would make sense, teeth and mountain. Your intelligence shames me."


The_Gnoll_DM wrote:
Qadir looks impressed. "Dumah, your reputation as the learned one of the group does not do you justice. The Stone Maw? That would make sense, teeth and mountain. Your intelligence shames me."

You honor me, sir. But I learn from my peers in the Sand Stalkers every day, and the trivia I have collected in numerous libraries is just esoteric without my friends to practically apply it.

I apologize if we failed to introduce the newest Sand Stalker. This is Jameena Al'Qadr. Distinguished servant of Sarenrae. She is committed to our cause and enjoys our trust and respect.

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