Regretfully I will need to back out of the game, I simply dont have the time anymore to keep up on things enough to add to the story. And in fact havent been able to pay attention for a month or so, which is just way to long and it isnt getting any easier (its getting harder in fact).
So, Val is welcome to continue to use the character and if he lets me know I might just pop in on occassion but will not be able to be a regular participant.
I had a lot of fun and a lot of interesting conversations with everyone. I will miss playing and wish all of you the best in this adventure and beyond.
Kalona; you have the option of allowing the investiture of Raven and becoming an Avatar for the purpose of watching the game proceed with fair play and enforcing the victors rights.
"Oh, Aahz, it appears I am needed for a game of ruckles. Feel free to join me but only as a spectator, the rules have already been set."
Hehe, I always wanted to preside over a game of ruckles, nothing like watching multi-dimensional moves...em well, I hope they know how to do those, sticking in one dimension is just so...well...mundane.
Hmmm...I cant see into that place well, either gaurded or not of this plane I think. As others walk into the darkness.
A hint of disgust enters her voice through the link as she mentally updates the situation outside.
It seems those abominations...that which are being called snakemen are attacking. I think it a wiser course to leave the darkness unexplored and deal with these snake creatures first. Were a fight to occur on both sides, it is likely we shall suffer worst than dealing with one situation at a time.
Kalona makes ready to deal with the snakemen situation.
Kalona listens to the two 'powers' shaking her head now and then and when over turns to listen to the others. So far the responses are as expected. She sighs, then jumps in...
Llevnoc, for the powers to intervene a proper sacrifice must be made. That is the way for powers, lest those of us be trod upon by such things. The sacrifice will be that we fight without the aid of what we consider precious. Those 'civilized' weapons of yours, that honored dwarven heritage that the dwarf bears, that blessed spear of the palladin, the magic that the catkin did spend his life researching as well, I think the fox, the blessings that the priestess who pledged her life to the power is gifted with.
That is the sacrifice that has been required, to dismiss it with an angry retort at the catikin who merely volunteered to give up his precious gifts he has strove so hard to achieve, so that this group may be further blessed on this mission and have that much better chance to succeed. This action of yours is very unbecoming of one who would call themselves good, who would wish for the well being of all and the success of this mission.
So is that your final answer, refusal of the gift from an ally of your patron, one that would increase the chances of the mission you swore to 'die' trying. That would increase the chance of these group-mates surviving this trial, some of which are the ones you pledge too. Is this your sense of good, the depth of your convictions you have sworn and pledge too? Is all it takes to overcome these things just the momentary sacrifice of your most precious 'civilized' weapons?
Her discusions with Llevnoc are something of legend with this group and through the link, various responses of his flash as she remembers his steadfast statements of the past...more because she is unuse to the link that deliberate. It is quite clear though that she is not passing judgement by her tone, it is more a curiousity as to 'who is this Llevnoc' then anything else for indeed this seems to her a deciding moment and her curiousity is quite aroused.
Skeletons are on guard btw, swarm comes in contact they go 'tooth and claw' but only if she, the skeletons themselves or the catkin are attacked. Does Kalona feel the skeletons being involved with the fight would violate the requirement? If so, she would have them not respond to an attack.
Kalona swoops and lands facing the swarm, on a skeletons head which had moved to give her a good position for her next action.
I would advise that unless already deaf, covering ones ears would be wise about now.
As the bugs come she rears up and brings her wings to full spread as if to take flight then she opens her beak and lightning leaps from her mouth with a thunderous boom to strike the on coming swarm.
DC 17; Damage 3d6 ⇒ (2, 6, 5) = 13
oops guess I should roll inits too; 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20 and spot 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (9) + 11 = 20
it is a swarm of insects; to many to eat; enough to be scary; they see you and begin to pursue...
As she does a run flight manuever back to the group
Ack! I do believe this maybe a locust nest...or some such. It seems there are some rather hungry insects coming our way. Probably okay to eat if there were only a few but with that many we might become the prey. Flashes a mental image of the uncoming swarm.
Kalona stops cleaning under her wings and looks in Decidio's direction. She sighs.
"It would be nice if the powers that be, had a bit more taste in open air, with all this flying about I have been doing. Ah well, will take a look for you Kusan, might be fun and hopefully better scenary."
She will head down that direction, but only get close enough to get an idea of what is out there. If something comes after her she will immediately head back, full speed.
Okay, I will not go any deeper in and am returning to the group. Mini raptors qualify as a stopping point.
On my way back, unless there are some hidden ways within these walls, those little ones are the only way past. I think they will likely attack and eat anything that comes into reach, probably not much food down here for them. Probably also a lot more than I saw. Bet they taste like frog. Could make for some fine fixings...got to watch the bones though.
Well, its been a little boring lately, bunch of moving, no talking and this is the first change in scenary in a while so she will cautiously move forward and be prepared to make a hasty retreat.
Well something up ahead looks a little more interesting than the rest of the walls (folks get the rolling eye feeling at the mention of walls as if to ask the question who would want to be so enclosed...), will take a closer look
She will also send pictures back via the mindlink for everyones viewing pleasure.
In the Mind link: Caer, Iunuis, Aahz have you found us a secure location to hole up in yet? Kaluna fly ahead and see what there. Send back information through the mind link. W need a place that can be defended for at least the night or an alternative to staying out her like sitting lets move before its to late.
Sure thing Kusan, although its rather difficult to find a place in death's realm where in its defensible to the dead. But, you never know, spirits can be quite peculiar at times. I wonder if the snakes are dead, hope not, snakes make for good stew you know. Specially with some Halfling spices, I dont know where they get their recipes from but its really tastee stuff...cant wait for some snake stew, and grapes too of course, yummm....
I will fly down a ways, further than Caerwyn went. Until there is either a choice to make, a spot that allows for some cover and is not the middle of the hallway, a trap I hope I dont spring or some sort of entity I sense. Just flying along not searching so normal speed. Feel free to make any rolls you need to for me Val
A large raven suddenly pops up right in front of Sunset. In Sunset's native tongue;
"Ah young lady, please do try and be more cautious with what you invoke, one never knows what Powers may be listening and twas only by your good fortune that Aahz did hear.. So what seems to be..." An arrow and stone fly past Kalona.
She turns her head to look in that direction.
"Ah a bit over whelmed by the odds is it? Well, I havent much time but this should help a bit."
She flys past the two warriors landing on a recently deceased goblin and takes a deep breath, puffing up like birds do when they are threatened. Then opens her beak wide and a rush of hot air hits the warriors as fire leaps out of her mouth to engulf several of the goblins in front of her.
Damage:3d6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 1, 2) + 1 = 7(rolls like the GM, maybe he will through in some help there).
Reflex Save, DC:17
Then she looks back at Sunset as she begins to softly fade away.
"Do remember to be careful and that it was Aahz that answered, he is still young but I expect many things from him in the future...yes, quite the young power he is...dont forget his words." And with that she vanishes from view.
"Yes Aahz, I will go and do something for them as you request. It is after all my job to help beings such as yourself out at these times. But really, that young lady should be more careful with what she says, could have been anyone hearing her."
Kalona disappears for a moment then within a few seconds re-appears.
"Quite the pickle those folks were in...hmm pickles, havent had those in a while...anyway I gave them a breather...giggles...should help a bit."
I describe to Kalona how to instruct her minion to try to open the door.
Did a search check earlier, also doing an open lock check now:
1d20+13
Kalona will instruct the skeleton according to Caerwyn's direction. She will ask questions as necessary in order to give the skeleton specific directions.
"Well, certainly I can try and have the skeleton open it, but there are limitations here. The skeleton can only do as I tell it, which means I need to know what to tell it to do...I am afraid I am not terribly familiar with...doors. The skeleton is also not very dextrous, so likely he will trigger whatever other traps are about. Also there is some possibility the door will not move without the intent of a living being. Regardless of my commanding, I dont think the skeleton will meet that criteria, but if everyone is okay with it and someone wants to give me instructions on what to tell the skeleton to do, we can try and see what happens."
"Guess its time to go." more to herself than anyone else. She grabs a last bit of food on the table and then hops up on a skeleton, the other two resume their guard duty of the cat-kin.
She will move the skeleton to resume her position behind Kosan
"Please tell us of your vision Aahz, I cannot see what you see."
Kalona listens to all the plans being made and it occurs to her that a crucial factor is missing.
"Well, it seems everyone is a bit chipper now that they are making plans for war, casualties and even their own 'peace'. I do wonder though, how to get those chains off. Seems to me that unless we can get those chains off, we lose."
"From the dream I would say the metal was thicker than the dwarf there, probably magical and who knows about that wall she is attached too. Strong chains or not she would be able to break a wall if it were not also properly prepared."
"Charging through, sacrificing comrades, using spells for grandoise effects and diverting attentions all seem well enough to get to the power with reduced group capabilities, but then how to get the chains off? What if a causualty is the one that can, or the diversion is the one that can or the protector is the one that can? All seems to be hinged on how to get the chains off first then how to get to there then how to get out. All hopefully, with everyone in good health."
Out loud: ... Someone negotiate with the Fea to get that door open. ...
Valegrim wrote:
Doors; no magic
"Doesnt appear to be any magic on these obstacles...um, doors. So I dont think the King of Leprechauns has much to do about them. Perhaps try a more normal method of moving such obstacles...doors? Certainly one of these new friends should be able to open that which their friends closed? I think yon King might be a bit upset asked to do such a task and perhaps question our worth yet again?"
Kalona takes a good long time looking at the map takes 20 +3=23 on religion, also per some stuff you told me Val this might fit into her history knowledge so 20 + 7=27 if it matters not Greek so +5 DC.
After which she tunes back into the conversations.
Kosan or is it Kusan, with your pronounciation of my name I guess Kusan is correct. Anyway Kusan, I will ask that they be invited however please refrain from talking out loud about this link in front of Aahz, if he were to request to be part of it I would be bound to abide by that. However, he is still young and I think this would be new to him so there is a high possibility he would accidentaly leave a few folks mindless zombies. Not sure if he could fix that or not. Probably wouldnt be the same afterward in any case.
Raven there are new ones here that wish to be a part of this link of thoughts, please allow them. They are Izzy, Durr and Caerwyn.
To Aahz, after the comments about dietific grouping;
"Yes Coyote and Rat do take some getting use to, however, once you understand their nature it becomes much easy to understand them. For Coyote to even show up shows his great concern. It wouldnt surprise me if she 'misplaced' a thing or two come morning. And Rat may well haggle quite the bargain for information into its where abouts." Kalona giggles a bit at the thought of that.
"Izzy, hmm, I like it, Izzy it is. I would be happy to introduce you to Fox, but he is quite a handful and somewhat shy. Its also a bit difficult for me to get close...safely at least. But that is part of the fun. Tends to spend time amongst the human tribes to the East as in orient. More so than around here I think. But he is quite cunning and enjoys a good game, so you never know."
"Most definately Kemnebi, if the thing cares that is. Its hard to tell but unless the powers are deliberately hiding and sometimes even if they are things like that can find them. I dont however, think it is coming because it senses them rather there is another reason. In the above land there are many beings about that are more likely to attract its attention than us. But we have to be careful not to pay too much attention to it, it warps reality, confuses ones soul or spirit and torments ones mind. A thing of horror is not something a being of the natural world should dwell on, less we accidentally get captured by its essense and warped and twisted into something unnatural" Kalona clearly shivers, her feathers get all ruffled and she begins pacing nervously.
"But on to more pleasent things." Eats some fruits and listens to the new tale or saying as it were.
"Oh please do say again so that I can remember properly. All these new stories are great." Her earlier shivering forgotten, even if the subject of this story or prophesy is dire. It seems it is better than her previous thoughts.
The halfling stops her eating to stare at Kalona, then laughs and says, "I do not think I caught your name, my new winged friend, but I did not realize you were female until you said so. So I am not be offended to find you have made the same mistake with me. To be clear, I'm a girl-halfling, not a boy."
"Ack, my most sincere apologies. All these events have me all a flutter. Of course you are female...um, though it appears the mask is male. Ah well, is it Ms. or Mrs. then? Simply using the word fox seems rather odd talking with a halfling, and I couldnt call you Fox, he would be rather miffed about that and I am sure Raven would eventually pass it on...or do you have another preference?" The word Fox and Raven seem to have a different syllabel inflection to it, as if they have more meaning than the simple word, but its very hard to tell.
"I am Kalona and Kalona is who I am." Spoken as if the word gave all the information necessary to know her quite well.
After listening to the tale. "Well, not the normal halfling tale, but quite interesting. I would ask that you repeat it to me a few times that I may recall it properly in the future."
"I think what comes is not after us, but rather we simply are in a place where it will be. Aahz and ladies, I do not think it is healthy for you try and pay attention to it, rather I think it safer to put your mental defenses up and ignore it less its influence find a way to corrupt your being."
"Mr. Fox, Kemnebi, Nebibit and Erkholt perhaps if you four compared notes you might be able to discern what this conjunction is Aahz's sister speaks of?"
"Um, I am afraid and rather embarrassed I did not catch your name." Kalona says to Caerywn. "However" she continues
"It seems to me that this association here is likely to focus on dealing with the problem first then...picking up lose ends after it is solved. We should get going but not before we have aid in a course of direction. From what I have seen it would be easy to get lost and there are many natural enemies of the various members about even if they do not have anything to do with the quest."
"So please seek out those who would give us information, I am sure while the dwarf or the rest of us are difficult to deal with we are much easier to take than those two trolls I saw earlier or even that sword our host carries. Dont you think?"
Turns to the fey in green.
"I think that now is a good time for us to greet you properly, majestic one of summer. That wickedness that comes prevents us from further tarrying and those of mortal ken have not the power of time as ye have. So please, grace us with your words as you have made merry with us, rested with us and feasted with us." she says quite cordiually if a bit formal.
With this last, she nods to those in the party who have shown skill with words, particularly the large raven.
Kalona listens to Astinos, sure he is being welcoming though not really sure if he had a little bit too much to drink last night...
She then looks at the foxed masked one. A sparkle seems to come to her eyes.
"Your a halfling aren't you." Stating perhaps the obvious. "Oh good, I have met many a halfling and always an enjoyable experience. Just yesterday there was this one named Bob who went off...well apparently by the dream got that seal thing the ghostly dwarf tried to guard. Should have put Kosan here in a good mood, but it seems he has trouble finding the right side of the bed to get out of..." giggles a bit and throws a sideways glance at Kosan. Sighs then continues. "This Bob seemed so full of energy and I am sure many stories. Too bad I had not the time to talk with him."
"Please eat up and listen, your friend there as well, no need to be shy over in the shadows, might not all be friends here but at least we can eat together." She gobbles up a portion of food one of the skeletons in the room placed before her.
"I think, mind you only yesterday did I meet this group of...rather unusual individuals, the goal here is also related to a dream you might have had. The one with the large woman in it. A power...um diety of earth?"
"Hmmm, dont really know how she is identified here, too many human powers to keep up with, though it would seem something went through and messed that up, greatly reduced them. Wonder what could have overcome so many..." The thought trails off
.
"Ah, but to your question. That large female power is being held captive by...what is the word...ummmm...abominations I guess. Doesnt seem to quite represent them, but they are creatures not of nature things that should not exist. Quite frankly they make my feathers bristle, I mean so unnatural are they that you cant help but fill like you fell into one of those pools of black thick water and are struggling to keep a float..." shivers a bit..."Well this group of things are trying to use the powers essence to steal the sun. Yes the real sun the one that floats in the sky and lights everything during the day. Well as one would expect there are powers out there that dont much care for that at all!"
"So they sent out a call for aid, powers you know have difficulty working in the mortal world without mortals, and these folks here are what showed up...me as well though my story is a bit different since a human asked me to come rather than a power, though Raven was pretty much in agreement. Quite the game going on you know."
Hearing Aahz's 'uh-oh' she looks at him and then at the direction she is looking..."That doesnt sound good...Aahz, something going on?"
Aahz "yeah, Lorm; that basnageg; he tortured and killed my Aunt; gave her over to them Four Horsemen he did; a real meanie, its what drove my brother of a different mother quite insane; just broke his mind; he was only a little dead guy at the time as far as I know. Was suckled and given love and life from her he did; my poor Auntie Arlene"
<Aahz shakes his drumstick and rants>
"As for the Fey Princess; wow; she is totally cool and so beautiful; dreamy like; really nice too. Lorm and some others, kidnapped her back a bit ago; before I met up with them; she was with them at that time; hmm; what was her name...Lily I think; their holding her for ransom; you know; Astinos and those guys; they tried to negotiate with you guys, but that didnt work out of course; these talks are not you guyzes strong point; I can see why my brother wants to wash his hands of you; course my sister just wants to dance with Llvenoc and play house, so they are leaving this Doom decisions to me; aint seen much to make up my mind yet; so am thinking if you guys save the Earth and Sun; well, I will say take of the Doom"
"I think you mean your uncle...um...dont recall his name. Astinos is our young friend here, quiet though he sometimes is I think he does not share the same belief's as the one you call your uncle."
She takes in the greenly dressed little persons change of color and continues.
"Yes the fay princess's are quite a sight to behold, most mortals have difficulty dealing with such beauty...somewhat like young Kemnebi is having over there..." Noticing his rather odd predicament.
"It seems though this imprisonment is not looked kindly on by the other fay, or at least this one. See, he is turning quite red and steam is coming out his ears, quite upset he seems about it."
"On top of that one shouldnt hold a women against her will either, its just not polite or...gentlemenly...a term your uncle likes to use I think. Just think how your sister would feel or react should she suddenly not be allowed to freely move about and meet new people or old friends. Being female myself, I can tell you that we simply do not like such captivity."
"as I mentioned before, it would appear the fey had something to do with Grymbol's dissapearance. While this information association that seems to reside here may indeed have quite a breath of knowledge...after all Rat was and probably still is here. It is fairly unlikely they would have knowledge of the inner workings of the fey. At least not true knowledge, rather difficult to sort that stuff out."
"However, it does appear the fey representative here does know something. So I would recommend asking him, though probably not till after he is finished eating. Certainly you might consider being a little less judgmental in your tone when asking. We dont know who this little person in the green suit is yet. Offending him might only produce the result of a green nose or something rather than the answers you seek."
"As for this Lorm character, I did have a dream about him and some monks last night. I do not know him, this Balfic, your brother, nor these monks. However, I do know Aahz's brother has a deep dislike of this Lorm for his role in the death of his mother. So much so that anyone bearing a semblance to Lorm is cursed by him. I also know that kidnapping a fey princess is every bit as bad as kidnapping a goddess and trying to steal the sun. If he is involved in that."
"Aahz" she eyes the young power, but in a conversational tone. "You mentioned something about this fey princess, do you know something? Kidnapping beings, especially important powerful beings is something that tends to lead to war and I thought you wanted that to stop."
"It looks like we are off to breakfast Aahz, shall we go?" Kalona will wait for him before heading off.
Astinos wrote:
"If Grymbol is missing I am sure he has his reasons. If the fey are at war it may be that he was required to leave by whichever party instructed him to join us in the first place."
"Astinos, I dont think so. It seems our new companion knows a bit more than he is telling but is to hungry to speak at the moment." She says after the little person responds.
"I havent seen a Fey like him before, I wonder if that green suit and golden utensils indicate his importance or perhaps type. Seems to be quite the feature of him."
Kalona will direct others around the little person's chosen seat so as they do not make a 'fupah' via the mindlink.
The little person, probably fey, is sitting at (insert location) of the table, please avoid that seat, it probably wouldnt do to select the same spot.
She will also ensure that he is recognized as being there by the wait staff if they do not seem to notice. After which she takes notice of the others.
"Oh a Fox mask, I wonder if you are a member of the group Jewel talks about? She wears an Ogre mask I do believe and then there is that other, Lorm with the Hawk mask, I wonder if those monks let him keep it? Such an interesting organization, very colorful. Hmm, foxes and cats now, whatever is a bird to do." she muses in a rather short burst, then giggles a bit before continuing. The skeleton that seems to attend her nods his head in assent while giving his typical blank and earie look. "Dont stare, it isnt polite." she says and the skeleton looks away...but he may still be watching out the side of his...skull...who knows...
"But I forget myself. I am Kalona and this is Aahz, a young Power. Please to meet you." She says to both new people and nods her head in greeting.
"Over there" She motions to the seet the little person is in (apparently empty I think as he is not visible)."is someone I dont know, but please avoid using that seat." She looks at the mask a bit more. "but perhaps you already know that."
"And another I dont recognize, what a wonderful morning to wake up too. Already new people I am sure with interesting stories. An exciting day is no doubt in store."
"I would introduce the others, but I think they prefer to do that themselves."
"Wait, what do you mean,...? Grymbol's missing? What replacement?!?" Kemnebi looks around in confusion, only just now realizing that the short muscular Fey is no longer among them.
Kalona looks at Kemnebi, "Well, when I said Grymbol is missing it means I no longer see he is here and neither him nor anyone else I know of informed me where he is going. So I think of him as missing." She says in an explanatory way, completely missing that Kemnebi would not require such an explanation...or at least that is how it seems.
"I do seem to remember some sort of Fey like activity near him last night but it was very difficult to see and I was story telling and not paying much attention. But I think that is when the little person showed up. The one that has been liberally partaking of Kosan's mug all morning. Has an odd dance step too. I thought he seemed Fey like and would be Grymbol's replacement then."
"He was the one playing the pipes by the way and very well indeed." Nods her respect of his playing towards him as well as pointing his direction out to everyone that is paying attention.
"You all ready to leave?" They shake there heads 'Yes' in synch. Two of them move off to resume their kitty guard duty.
"All ready here...hmmm, so seems Grymbol is missing, is the new one a replacement? He seems a bit more cheerful, though perhaps that is Kosan's drink." She looks at Kosan's face no doubt carved from stone it was and wonders if that is his cheerful face...begins giggle...cheerful drink indeed. She will need to ask Erkholt about dwarven facial expressions sometime...
I really should check this page more often, going to have to do some adding...
Nebibit; This edition is pretty easy with xps. You need your current Level x 1000xps to make the next level. So if you are 1st level you needed 1k, at lvl 2 you needed 2k more for a total of 3k and on and on. I think most folk are 6th so the base to reach 6th is (1st lvl is free) 1k+2k+3k+4k+5k=15k and you need 6k to make lvl 7 or 21k.
Val
Spoiler:
Thanks for the info Val, I have been doing what I can based on the info you give me. This character really has a lot of interesting things about it and the interaction between the other party members is great, if a little surprising at times. It seems her 'alieness' for lack of a better term is really having an effect...which makes for great RP.
The music is not lost on Kalona Roll 11+13=24 for style; wind instrument; And a 5+13=18 for dance since she can see the jig more or less...guess the roll means less who stops the skeletons from playing catch and whips out her drum to put a beat to the music Roll 18 + 13=31 for drumming along
Spoiler:
As the dancing figure turns her way, she will wink at him and nod politely to indicate she can see him.
Remember, Kalona place an affect on all party members that heard her song last night (which was everyone but the new folk). Regardless of the disturbing dream everyone should wake refreshed as if they had 24 hours of sleep, including game benefits for such rest.
Kalona wakes up early and stretches her wings, she looks around for the voice she heard last night but doesnt see anyone so shrugs her shoulders and takes account of those folks here. She tries and to see if the skeleton can point at Decidio, Aahz or Namaste's bat again. Just curious.
As time wanders on and not being the one to sit and wait but not wanting to wake anyone up or disturb those that are doing their morning chores, she reaches in under her wing and pulls out a leather type ball more or less the size of a normal fist.
She positions the 3 skeletons in a triangle more or less equal distant from one another, out of the way from the majority if not everyone (cant remember how big this room is). And has them play catch with her controlling who and where to throw the ball.
The voice not sounding particularly threating will not throw Kalona off her tale.
However, she will begin moving around between the listeners using her body as well as her voice to tell the tale. As she does this she takes the time to glance here and there to see if she notices anything amiss or the source of the voice. She will also give a mental command to her skeleton (the one that is not gaurding the cats) to point at all beings in the room one after another with 10 secs (she probably doesnt use the term 10 secs but with a moments pause) between changes starting with the closest. She will note the location and who of each point to again try and find the source of the voice.
"I would greatly enjoy a dwarven tale, it is very uncommon to have dwarven story tellers from whence I come."
Most regretably I do not have time to type the many pages (I am guessing, Val has only filled me in on a little of this) of the story, not sure everyone would want me filling up the post with that anyway but...; it is told in comic fashion with much slapstick particularly surrounding the dwarf (who you might consider Moe, the Human? Mage (Larry), a Half-orc (Curly) and an elf with a great tendency for the bottle. The hafling is somewhat of the 'wisdom' of the group and the antics are clearly from his viewpoint.
takes 20 on the roll +13, which gives a 33 total.
Maybe later if I get the chance I will fill in some of the story but the essence of the plot is;
the Palladin Marshal is stricken by a horrible poison that threatens his life. All the clerics powers of the land and those of their apothecary counterparts are unable to save his life, but manage to temporarly stave off his death. In a vision while solemnly praying for guidance the high priest identifies a flower that can save him. But it is hidden deep within a swamp said to be ruled over by 3 ancient black dragons far away.
The knights of the land, ride forth, but all fail with only a few returning. The Palladin Marshal forbids more attempting the cause, for he can not afford to lose any more valiant knights with the war currently going on. So the call goes out for adventurers.
Enter Moe, Curly, Larry and their drunken elven amigo. Well shaken with added halfling for flavor.
And the story begins...The seriousness of the situation quickly deteriorates into the typical 3 stooges humor with a couple of extras...and ends in Vals post here. Suffice to say the group does not succeed and one could almost here 'Sir Robin's song...Monty Python...' humming on the halfling's lips as the exit stage left', short one mage (still with the dragon I believe).
Kalona begins giggling a bit, then harder then out right laughter. After a moment she collects herself.
"My apologies, I just remembered a tale, or joke involving this Marshal of Palladins and a group of bumbling misfits that thought they were hero's. Its quite funny. Just one of several collectively known as 'The Misfits, Adventures in the Lower Lands' some of the story tellers have aquired. Quite popular amongst the children and make for a enjoyable evening of laughter around the campfire. They all have some common themes, usually a half-orc, a dwarf, a mage (human mostly) and some version of an elf (they seem to change more on that one for some reason) are invovled and bungling something up. Some folks say these are real people, but most just think they are part of some comedy tales travelers like to talk about over the campfire. Some of the more superstitious folk even believe its a sign of bad luck to be in a group with this combination.
"Look"; she reaches under her wing an pulls out a small amulet pouch. "This was made just for that instance by some wonderful children I know. It said to ward off such...bad influences." Looks around the room, Giggles some more. "I could tell this tale if people would like."
Kalona listens to the monk/Llvenoc exchange, apparently expressionless but not really (though her head nodding tends to parallel Erkholt's I think), occassionaly shaking her head in agreement with the monk and gigling at the 'maleness' of the group.
Spoiler:
She will take 20 on Bardic knowledge roles in reference to the names and names of items the monk mentions as well as the tattoos on the monk. Gives her a 27 total.
Now that you all all rested and broken fast; we should speak of various events.
perhaps a trade of information is in order.
I wish to know of Lorm Dragonheart and of his whereabouts; I can offer many threads of information in trade.
Kalona eventual steps out of the bath...water pan...and shakes herself off. She thanks the monk for the food as she begins sampling everything, even tasting the drink with the help of the skeleton.
When done, she thanks the monk again and offers praise to the cook.
At his request for information she responds;
"Lorm...Lorm"; at Llvenoc's mention of his ambassadorship, "ah yes, the one called Candy Cane Mage, wearer of a hawk's mask, torturer of mothers, probably an impersonator of the cat-kin, seems to be an evil spirit to the fey"
"Goes by the name Dragonheart does he? Probably irritates the dragons too then as he does not sound much like a dragon's heart. It would seem he is something of a...the term is con-man? Impersonating others and perhaps a bully, dont know what he has over the fey though. Grymbol might. Dont know why an emporer would make him an ambassador, doesnt seem the type, but maybe he just thought the opposition would 'kill the messenger'. Hmmm...just dont know..."
"Anyway, I know where he was a bit ago, but not where he is now. He seems to move by magical means, so its difficult to predict where and when."
Kalona giggles a bit at the various Erkholt remarks but sends privately through the mindlink a sense of understanding sympathy for his predictment both at Kosan and Llvenoc.
To Aahz she answers his question/comments as best she can but is goggling almost as much as he, its not often she is in underground complexes.
In relation to the intracate door she is both agahst and amazed.
"Wow, that...that is quite an item there...it moves there and then that happens, then that, amazing. But, why? It seems quite inconvenient to have such an obstacle...hmmm...I can only think that whoever built this place really made someone else so mad they had to shut themselves off from everyone...I wonder what they did?"
...on to the sauna,
"oh, cleaning time...a bit hot and moist, like summer in the jungle."
...noticing the large pot they are spooning the water out of...
"Ah just perfect." She wades right into the pot, dips her beak in here and there and sprays herself and rubs her feathers down.
At the sound oh the Grymbol and Erkholt offering up healing she breaks into a song...it sounds lively to those around but the words are foreign...nice bathing song. She sings it until it appears no more healing is going around.
Magical visions spoiler;
Spoiler:
A soft white magical glow decends on everyone in the room, the energy is filled with life if that can be descerned. Probably positive plane energy for those who can tell such things
Those healing during the singing and for 5 rounds afterward:
Spoiler:
this song has the effect of adding +9 to all magical healing done that comes from casting conjuration (healing) spells.
After that song she pauses for a bit and looks around. If it appears the healing is done, she dips her beak in the water and sprays herself a bit more. Then launches into another song. This one more of a lullaby in tempo, though fairly long (several minutes) as if telling a story as well. Again in a language most cant speak. if it turns out someone can learn and wants to know what the songs are about let me know and I will spoiler the info
Magical visions spoiler;
Spoiler:
similar to above but it appears softer if possible, less concentrated but slowly being absorbed by everyone's body
Everyone in the room...note that if it appears she misses anyone she will get them later before sleeping...will wake up in the morning refreshed as if they had complete bed rest for 24 hours, I believe that is 2x character level in hit points and probably some drain/damage, fatigue, exhaustion and the like but I dont have that handy
In the Mindlink. You took without asking. Therefore you are a thief. Matters not what your intentions are. You assumed.
As for me and Lady Aestella. If she feels I have done wrong by her. She will let me know in private. Ladies do that sort of thing you know. I will express my viewpoint, and she will express hers. We will iron it out. One way or the other. However its resolved is certainly none of your business.
Its true I am already dead. That was decided for me when I met this lot. But me choosing how I want to die. That doesn't lessen my intent. It gives it meaning. Not to be doled out by someone else. I chose that that moment had worth. I chose that her life has more meaning than mine. But I waste my words with you. You will always twist and pervert my intent. Your as black and ugly on the outside as your are on the in.
You are dead to me.
Deep in my heart I hope Aahz doesn't learn from women like Kalona. Otherwise he will become a man that has to sit down to pee; and ask permission to speak his mind.
spoilerized for space
Oh my, this is just such an incredible amount of contradictions, hypocracy and lack of understanding of others that it very nearly overwhelms ones senses. This is just amazing. Truly chaos must be running rampent throughout the world. Just amazing...
Well, to the point. Its not your intentions that was the focus here, it was how you expressed them, it was rude. She showed you it was rude and you still did not get it. You dont even get it now when someone has told you. You dont even after all the things mentioned, grasp anything about her character at all or why she responded the way she did. Really, think outside yourself for a change and pay attention to the world around you.
Now as much as the many other points of discussion are begging, there is only one other thing I am wondering about. If you have a right to chose where and when to die, doesnt everyone else? If you can chose who is more worthy to live, cant everyone else? So why is your choice more 'right' than theirs? What about your promise to rescue this power, is that of less meaning than your choice of when to die?
It seems to me you simply want to die and make up excuses for the rest. True heroes seek to live and enjoy the future they have wrought rather than die and cause more sorrow to those they struggled for. A true hero never lays down ones life for another but fights so that all, including themselves will survive. Striving though all loss, all pain and all suffering. It is this that makes a hero, whether or not they succeed. But what would I know, I'm just a thief, right?
Weeee...ooops, uh oh turn, turn...ack going too fast...AHHHHH!...eh, over already?
At the Ork exchange;
"Sure" she watches intently...magical eyes as well.
"Indeed, indeed. You do know how to talk with the orks."
Giggles; "Well I do think orks have it about right with the game idea, though sometimes I do wonder about them. Its hard to figure out what game they are playing sometimes."
"Hmmmm." Kalona thinks..."Not a legendary ork or dwarf before at least."
To Kosan, after she places the bag in a skeleton's hands.
"The Left Hand said she was destroying the place and everything in it. She was there and did not object to the removal and no one attempted to hide it from her. We will be meeting up with the owner it is my understanding, we can freely discuss these things with him then. How so then is this a morality issue? Oh and how did I become a necromancer...mind you that would be an interesting profession...I suppose necromancy and spirit guide do have some things in common. Never thought about it before..."
To Llevnoc
Up to Raven to let you out, not anyone here. He may, though I think he finds you funny so enjoys listening.
Oblivious as normal, you made a poor joke that showed no respect for her position or who she is. She is the representative our host left with us, not some little girl. She is some mage of note, as could be seen by how others who knew her treated her. Her title, I would guess has enough meaning around here that others would not normally question her will. Yet you say something as frivolous as jumping down the chute together and hanging on to each other for our dear lives screaming down the slide? Just what did she say or do that would lead you to believe this was an appropriate way to talk with her?
Then after she gave you a cold poker like stare and told you to go, she had business to attend too, business she did not like no doubt, you actually demanded an answer to your question and told her if you did not like the answer she would be 'stuck with you'? Do you honestly believe you were nice, courteous or in the least bit respectful of her?
It doesnt matter that you had her best interest in mind, it doesnt matter that you are willing to give up your life, which you yourself constantly say is already dead...making it a meaningless offer. You have completely ingored everything about her or more likely simply didnt notice who she was, a flat out insult. Which made all the time and conversation with her moot, deprived her of her dignity, stole all her time working up to her position, dismissed the trust placed in her, defamed her in front of those of lesser rank as well as other guests. You took it all and with your 'galant willingness to sacrifice yourself and concern for her safety' tossed it on the ground and trampled all over it right in front of her and everyone else, all in a matter of seconds. Exactly what was nice about, your kind thoughts? Really.
As for me not talking with you, we are in a group together...tough it out or better yet, learn and grow.
She sits on Aahz's shoulder calmingly watching the Ork/Group events play out as she awaits the Kosan defense...wonder if she will be surprised or not, probably not.
"Ah Aahz, it seems you have some maleness about you. I really hope you take some time to understand females, I fear this group of males, even with the females around, would be hard pressed to find a faint glimmer truth within the recesses of their minds..."
Aahz; "I dont need no help; I can do it; you coming Kalona or we doing something else than hanging with these bums; hey; what did you find there; coolness; secret panels and secret hidden trapdoors; this room is neato."
"Isnt it? Its quite a fun game finding these things...but its typical they add some more surprises to the liven things up a bit, so..."
The skeleton will do the opening with Kalona providing direction, I have no idea its dex, but will take 10 on it and see what happens.
I needent be grabbed, in fact I am not very fond of that treatment. Being female, its quite common to dislike rude men grabbing them without their permission. Aahz if you recall is capable of movement anywhere in an instant and can also take others if he feels the need. I am sure all this is out of concern but try and be a little aware of others abilities, that Wizard of the Left very nearly incinerated you for your be-littling of her abilities and off color jest...I suppose there are those females out there that might like that sort of thing...and those that would use it for their own ends, but even so at least be aware...I would have thought you were already more aware given the nature of females in your race, but I guess oblivious men exist everywhere.
Continuing with Aahz;
"I must stick with this group, as they are my assignement and you had told your brethern you would keep an eye on the cats so, I think we are on the hook with them for the time being at least."
With warmth returning as well as the rest of the group from their not so song worthy escapades she realizes its time to start looking for that hidden door, the wizard mentioned must exist. Its not likely those mystical bindings that guard this place will hold once more of it has manifested...
"Astinos, the Wizard of the Left here mentioned that there is likely a secret way out though none of the occupants seem to know where. I havent seen anything magical, a connection to another plane...since the dragon left... or invisible so likely its hidden under more mundane means. Not really something I am particularly good at, but I am still looking."
Wanting to direct Aahz's attention away from the monstrosity,
"Aahz, do you see another exit from this place, I am sure that the Wizardess is correct that there must be at least one here. Our host seemed very much the sort of person who had many ways to make a safe exit."
I say out, but softly Me wonders could the lesson be about. I know they do not consider us a threat. I do not think they consider us weak. Maybe it is about us and our goal, some lesson they want us to know. What is the cost if this information they gave us. I say louder What is owed for that knowledge? A favor given is a favor owed. What do ye what from us?
"Grymbol, I think you make this too complex. They unquestionably felt slighted by yourself and others in not showing the respect they feel they deserve. This winter is something of a recognition and punishment for this. A demonstration of their power and a warning for when next we meet...should we survive of course. I think they do have a point, for had we been in the presence of nobles of the human, dwarven or elven realm I believe members of this group would have acted quite a bit differently and offered more appropriate respects to such nobles."
with the Vals info, the skeletons were working on getting the stove set up
After Kemnebi's shout, members in the room will become aware that the stove has a nice flame going, though not magical it might stave off the cold a bit.
Spoiler:
for those that can catch it (Kalona deliberately times this as well as she can) Kalona notices the others looking out the window, she leans forward toward the coal in the stove and lets out a slow steady breath. Small flames leap out of her mouth and engulf the coals, easily setting them afire and starting the stove up.
She then backs away and looks up.
"Is that surprising, I do believe where we are at its not unusual to see such disgusting creatures. I also believe that it is thought the enemies we face are such as these." She says in a steady controlled tone.
As she glares out the frosted window at the abomination of nature, she calmly mentions in mindlink
I do believe that of all of us, Namaste has the highest natural protections against such creatures and even perhaps is able to defend others. I think, Llvenoc, you underestimate her.
I am so happy to hear you say that, Llvenoc. I didnt think it would be so soon but it looks like you are making quite good progress. Yes, yes quite good. Things are really looking up.
Oh, and deals with the dragon? He wouldnt want and deals or trade with you, you have nothing to offer. He was just showing off probably because he was rather bored. Wouldnt be an issue but you tend to say and do things that irritate others and dragons, good or evil or somewhere inbetween like to eat irritations. I do wonder, how you could tell he was evil...if in fact he was, certainly not because of what me and the dwarf grumbled about, one assumption feeding another and all...Oh wait, I am not suppose to know anything about dragons..right, um never mind.
spoilered to minimize space and protect the innocent
Spoiler:
Kosan Silveraxe wrote:
in the mind link grumbling under my breath: I wish that Omnipotent and self serving feathered fowl would start trying to help the party instead of trying to split the party apart. Does it not know that by its constant bashing of one of our own, Llevonic, that it is making him go more and more towards insanity. Why has it chosen a path for him to tread and why does it try to keep him on that path. Does it not see the thin line he walks between sanity and insanity or is that its plan to drive him to despair, mental anguish or possibly even suicide? If Llevonic does cross beyond where we can not reach him I will surely blame it for his demise. Also how does it have unlimited powers yet it never helps the party only itself and all its bargains are done for the supposed party's benefit yet only it and its fellow creatures benefit like the quest to get Aaz or bargaining with fae from the night court or worst of all bargaining with a evil shadow dragon? But most of all if it is not a cleric then how does it control those skeletons. I at least hope that with its awesome powers it helps the rest of the party stay warm and not think of its self yet again.
giggles a bit Then remembers she is suppose to grumble under her breath when talking with a dwarf. She grumbles under her breath: Wonders if the dwarf would be unoffended if his property or items where 'marred'...like his axe, or beard even. Pausing, to shiver a bit with the rest of the comrades the dwarf left behind. She continues overseeing the skeleton's actions. she grumbles again; she will have to thank her mentor for thoughtfully giving her a device that enable some small control over the otherwise useless bones laying around. She wonders if the second time she has mentioned this slips past the painted delusions of others Suddenly a grim thought enters her mind.
continues grumbling under her breath: wonders if the dwarf has the same affliction that Llvenoc has. Hmmm, his senses seem to be seeing things differently than reality. Perhaps Llvenoc is not insane for wanting to bring back one of the most evil Powers that has existed, sworn enemy to all dwarven kind and anyone else, including her 'own' race, the Spider-like. So vile that even the dwarven Power Erkholt follows refuses to heal any of the darken tribe, even with her gone, even with them good at heart. Perhaps, he is under the affliction of a terrible disease and now its spread to the dwarf. Warping his sense of reality, unable to truly see what is before him and painting an artificial existance for him to dwell in. This is quite grim, a disease that could do that, Kalona certainly hopes she doesnt catch it. Or any of the others.
she thinks back on the events that led to this place
continues grumbling:the party before she met them fighting against some shadows and another thing, she remembers freezing some of them in place, that the group could overcome without additional injury. She remembers warning the group of the impending explosion caused by the dwarf and blowing away the harmful vapors, she is still a bit hurt from those. She remembers blocking the path by herself from the advance of the necromancer, zombies and ghouls that persued the group with what little items lay about. She remembers giving Kemnebi the word of control for that wand he has tucked away in his robe. She remembers seeing the Power that has much control in this place searching for those that 'marred' Its shrine and warning those of its vision. She remembers advocating for Kemnebi and Nebibit so that this curse that summons ill luck could be removed and managing to at least give them a chance to get it removed while others simply dealt with a trivial figure, whose opinion mattered not to those who cast the curse. She remembers the Fey attacking Grymbol and how her willingness to follow the ancient rituals interviened and kept them from destroying him. How she gave up 3 of her feathers as much a part of her as that dwarf's beard is a part of him in the trade that followed. She remembers the warning the Fey sent to her just before they left of the dangers that lurk ahead for the party. She remembers getting the dragon to be willing to help hunt for Llvenoc's cousin at risk to herself, after all one wrong move from Llvenoc may very well have reflected on her and a close up of a dragons mouth is not really what she would want. Him simply ignoring such a frighteningly powerful creature, why its lucky they are both alive at all, evil being what it is.
she grumbles on; truly this disease Llvenoc and Kosan have is a most frightening thing. Hmmmmm....hummmm...hoooo; gumbling is fun even in the cold. giggles...grumbles
grumbling under me breath in the mind link to: we finally find a fight and where be me companions huddled around a cozy fire with there we blankets around em probably roasting chestnuts, tellin ghosty stories and boasting about there prowess in battle in conquering there fears for a just and honest cause. What be the use of havin companions who say they wish to defeat evil but never even try to come to da party.
grumpling under her breath, if only the dwarf hadnt destroyed the hosts table, insulted the guests and charged out into the middle of a riot without thinking, bringing others in tow, he at least knows how to start a fire... Whats the use of having companions that blindly stumble around enciting anything and everything they encounter against them, even the ones trying to help?
Kalona looks around at everyone as the chill deepens in the room. Seeing that folks are shivering and no-one is moving she sighs...guess they are all city folk.
She looks around the room to see if there is a good location for a fire (fireplace would be perfect...). If so she will make the skeletons busy getting it ready. Also, I am guessing there is a window? Any other exits beside the frozen one?
Kalona makes rapid apologies to the departing guests for how the events turned out, especially to the dragon whose services were ignored and waves them a pleasant goodbye with her wing. She then turns to survay the room...sighs and her skeleton approaches. From under her wing she pulls out a cloak with her beak which she places in the skeletons hands. Over the next few minutes she works the cloak until she has a nice 'nest' in the skeletons arms then walks into it and has a seat.
She then pulls out the 3 'sparklies' she got from the Fey and proceeds to magically study them. Those watching with magical sight will see the glows of the magics flowing around her and the stones, one at a time as she attunes her self to the knowledge they contain. counts as an identify for each stone, takes 6 rounds total, 2 for each stone
She then puts them away under her wing and turns to Nebibit.
"Did you hear the Fey warning and advice that was spoken? I do not know much about those powers you follow, however, these names seem akin to them. Do you know of them or what the warning may mean?"
Repeated for convenience or if Nebibit didnt hear Kalona will speak it.
"Kalona, Kalona, Kalona"
"Beware the gaze of An Hotep Sule
for it is a look most cruel
a tenderizer for his gruel"
"look to Amon Ra Exthesis
for aid he will give thees
no hope have yea wihout hees"
"Green Man guard of many fits
restless dead is how he sits
a heart of god is in his mits"
Kalona watches the display and the 'walk outs' with open amazement and concern. But only for a second as she is more concerned with how the others of the booth take the rudeness that was displayed. Kalona is trying to see how the Duchess's, Dragon, Kobold, Aahz, the Left Hand Wizard and anyone else I may have missed respond to the outburst regardless of what they say...not sure what roll that would be...sense motive?
Astinos wrote:
"I will say this for Kosan, every now and then his outbursts have perfect timing. I agree, no one should travel alone. Namaste, how far is the range of your mindlink. We should all remain in it, before sleeping give your last location. We wouldn't want any suprises at this juncture."
Raven is powering the link, I dont think range will be a problem. However, there are things that can force one out of the link or temporarly block it I think. Though Namaste and Kemnebi would probably know more about that.
She hops off Aahz's shoulder at Kemnebi's mention of going for a visit with him. "I shall remain here and chat a bit, please enjoy the visit."
I follow Erkholt and Kosan out of the box without saying a word. Which makes three so we can leave. I am lost deep in thought and ignore everyones ramblings.
"Dark elves are easy to find; they have a curious odor; there are not many around; finding one such would be but mear hatchling play to one so mighty as I. I have but to take a wiff <a gust of wind into the darkness upwards pulls at players clothes, hair and loose articles> and thus easily can filter out the petulant drow scent and know that even without effort I can tell his blood kin are not far; made even easier in that there are so few. You understand little ones, dragons are the greatest, the epitomy of power, cunning, skill, intelligence and culture and thus can be benevolent when it suits; thus I gift you with that knowledge; you may thank me."
"Ah what wonders of wonders. Truly your greatness outshines us all, such royal majesty is nothing less than spectacular. Surely you must be greatest of all your kindred standing upon a pillar all your own. This blessing of knowledge is most humbly recieved and our thanks go out to you. Such kindness and benevolence is worthy of greatest song in granting us most meager in skill and humbled by your presence a mere glimpse of your supreme abilities. Our lives seem more fullfilled now that we have been blessed by your mighty presence. I am now left with no doubt that your wondress benevolence and most supreme abilities will surely aid this poor downtrodden elf and re-unite him with his lost family."
