Mal'c's page

Looking off into the twisting tunnels.

"By the evening meal. The doors may be opened at dawn."

Nodding his head up and down.

"I don't want to spoil the surprise. Let's just say this area used to be less dry."

The tunnel leading beyond the strange mechanical creature is dark, though no longer damp. Though the cavern is s single path for the first hour of your quickly paced journey, soon the cavern multiplies. There seem to be not only tunnels that divide, but deceptive openings that do nothing but loop into other tunnels. The slight dampness in places seems to indicate that these twists, turns, and looping tunnels were carved out by some ancient water source. After several hours of twists and turns that only Mal'c seems to know, he stops near a large fairly dry rock.

"We break fast here. Any edibles you have should be eaten from this rock. Strange mold grows in the water here. You'd be best not to eat it."

With the cube in hand, Tamayra easily passes through the vines. From beyond the vines you can hear the strange gardener speaking. 'The vines have spoken.' Voz and Mal'c seem to find amusement in the creature's words. The tunnel ahead looks of natural making with the only signs of craftsmanship being the metalwork piled nearby. The strange creature is motionless, though on approach you can hear a slight whirring sound.

"The entrance to the monasteries vaults is not far. Prepare yourselves. I can gain us entrance, but no monk living knows where all the traps are once we enter."

Please level your character to 5 as soon as you can.

Looking on for a moment before speaking up.
"It sounded as if Voz had an idea. What are the scraps he mentioned? I can hear him, but I can't see beyond these vines."

"You must not have the right object? What do you have?" Looking hopefully toward Tamayra.

Mal'c lowers his voice.
"It isn't really dangerous. It's a scavenger hunt. But please, play along. The druid that watches the garden.. isn't.. won't take it kindly."

"I'm happy to help you return to the surface."

Mal'c's voice is calm as he responds to Tamayra's comment. It is a bit disconcerting that you did not notice his approach.

Looking toward Aak.

"I believe Aak knows just as much as I do about the cultists. As for what awaits you within the caverns, the underground creatures are a mystery to me. Those who will meet you here soon may have advice to offer."

Nodding solemnly.

"I'll make sure you find your way to the caverns and ensure contact with an old acquaintance of Aak's before I come back and ensure the body is not disturbed by pests."

Thanks for the feedback all. Make sure you toss out notes concerning supplies that you would have gotten prior to leaving the temple. After this point I will assume you only have the items with you.

Mal'c kneels at the deceased man's feet.

"I believe he must have been one of the survivors from the attack on the forest village not far from the temple. Perhaps Enix may wish to conduct a proper burial?"

The walk into the rising son is chilly, but warms quickly as the sun rises. Soon the forest gives way to the cresting mountain. Though deserted, the path seems very familiar to Aak and Mal'c. By midday everyone is ready for a bit of rest and food. There seems to be little in the way of disturbances, though there is occasionally the sound of rocks tumbling in the distance.

"Don't worry. Very few rockslides occur in this area as the peaks are too steep for rocks to gather."

Perception rolls:

• Aak: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
  
• Jenya: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
  
• Tamayra: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
  
• Rheynold: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

In a storm of feathers and blood the creature falls to the ground motionless. Mal'c looks on with sympathy.

"Not much else could be done for the creature. It would have died of its wounds or starvation within days. Looking toward the slowly brightening horizon. Well, sunrise isn't far off, but we can head out now unless you all feel the need for more rest?"

Combat is over.

Looking with sympathy at the creature.

"Game in the forest has become scarce. These beasts have become desperate for anything to hunt.

Keeping his distance from the creature once he is on his feet.

"Keep your distance if you can. The creature will grab you if it can."

Nodding.
"Then it is set. Get some rest. We leave early at daybreak. We should be to the caverns near twilight tomorrow."

Perception rolls: (For watches. Please let me know if you're perception mod has changed.)

• Aak: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
  
• Jenya: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23
  
• Tamayra: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21
  
• Rheynold: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

As the sun begins to set, Mal'c slows his pace.
"A good days journey we've made, but now it is time to seek rest for the night. I can take the first watch, but will need to know who to rouse once I'm ready to get some rest."

Everything seems to be fine for Rheynold's host.

Nodding with understanding.
"Chi energy is neither good nor evil, each who uses it expresses their own tendencies in their use."

Assuming the group agrees, the following happens.

Smiling hopefully.
"Then let us prepare. We'll leave in the morning. We have some provisions so please let me know what you might need. Looking toward Aak. And I have some things you might wish to see."

Please level your characters to four. Also, prior to traveling to the cavern Mal'c guides the group to a hidden pool that is sacred to the order of monks Mal'c comes from. You may seen details here and in the post that comes after. Everyone other than Aak may drink from the pool. Mal'c will offer anyone interested training as detailed in the posts.

Looking puzzled.
"What key do you mean Aak? To northwest would lead to the open sea. The cavern is do the northeast. Grishnodnok and most of his tribe were slaughtered. After your capture there was no brokering peace of any kind. Even Durra met her end trying to tend the injured. A group of villagers torched her home after she fell asleep exhausted tending the wounded. Little safety can be found beyond these grounds."

Enix chimes in.
"What the monk says is true. Even within the port the cultists hold much influence. Seimez, the man I mentioned that you might all work with, has managed to over come their influence for now. Though I'm afraid without help he may not be able to keep the cultists from taking over the port."

Nodding
"I would welcome the help. There is a cavern, not far from here.[b] Looking toward Aak [b]I believe our mutual friend is familiar with it. At the founding of the monastery a secret entrance was constructed deep within the caverns connected to the caves. The area has since become inhabited, but Aak and his friends helped to broker a peace. Though there are many other dangers in the deep, at the least we have allies nearby - allies who have no love for the cultists."

Mal'c bows toward Jenya.

"Well met. I look forward to learning how all of you found Aak, However, I'm afraid I have a pressing matter - great treasures locked within the monastery are at risk in the grasp of the cultists."

A monk walks calmly through the temple doors, heading right for Aak - embracing him.

"Master Toe'n was right. He foresaw your return.. Just days before he was lost. Looking to the others. And who have we here. Strong allies to fight the wretched cultists I hope?"

With a wave Mal’c smiles, “Franklin has agreed to wait. Voz will be returning after finishing the patrol south. He is going to move the goods south after he returns in a week. Thank you for your help.”

Caylen will know that the driver's name is Franklin, though the guard almost always called him Frank.

Mal'c leads Caylen and Shayne back to where the wagon was sitting. Several men in women are working on it. From the large open area where the wagon sits Mal'c heads through a door at ground level. The door leads down a hallway to a quick turn that opens to a simple wooden door. Beyond the door is the infirmary. Other than a couple of elderly monks who are having blisters attended to, the driver is the only patient. He is laying flat, but struggles to sit up. He grimaces, though tries to hide it as best he can.

"I believe you remember Caylen," Mal'c smiles and gestures towards her and Shayne. "She has come with her friend Shayne to speak with you about dangers they have learned of. With that Mal'c heads over to check on one of the elderly monks.

Looking at Caylen, "If you'd prefer I'd be happy to accompany you. I'm sure Rema would be happy to go with you also, though I'm not sure that would address your original concern."

Mal'c smiles at Shayne, "I've noticed. But, I believe Caylen finds your presence reassuring."

Mal'c smiles at Caylen, "Perhaps you and Shayne could speak with him?"

Mal'c nods knowingly, "The man refuses to stay despite his injuries. Perhaps you might be able to convince him to stay? I have consulted with Master Toe'n and plan to see Brother Dow'mis. Both have gifts that I have not yet learned. It is my hope that even if the wagon must depart sooner than is prudent, I can at least learn what dangers might be ahead. Master Toe'n assures me that he will have further insights tomorrow morning."

As Rema moves toward the other table to see what Shayne has to show everyone, Mal'c returns to the hall. He smiles at the sight of the group, "I see Sadhvis Rema has told you about her quest. I don't wish to interrupt, but I have returned from seeing Master Toe'n. He to has a quest that you might undertake. With these last words his smile nearly vanishes. If you like, the wagon driver has requested we help him return to the valley. Several of those here, including myself will be serving as escort. Master Toe'n has asked me to invite all of you. Mal'c pauses, trying to find the right words. He made it quite clear that you are under no obligation to help in this matter." Mal'c glances at the group and curiously at Shayne's table once he notices the cards. He approaches.

The second day at the monastery.

Whether you hear the knocking at your door or those in the hallway it quickly becomes clear that this morning Mal'c won't be letting anyone sleep in. Though he doesn't rouse anyone to roughly, his knocking is insistent. Once everyone is gathered in the hallway he smiles, "It's time for breakfast. I'll explain the rest as we eat."

The walk to the hall is as before. As you peer over the circular stairway you can seem most of the people that call the monastery home are about finished with their morning meal. Mal'c walks everyone toward the front of the room, behind the central wood post were Master Toe'n spoke from the night before. Near the kitchen doors are small wood tables, one with wooden bowls and spoons. Behind the other is a young person serving hot porridge. There is also a bowl of fruit. Most of the tables are empty by the time everyone sits, but the tea pot in the center still steams. Small clean cups circle the pot.

After eating a few bites, Mal'c smiles and addresses the group, "And now it's time for you all to earn your keep. Over the coming days harvesting in the garden will continue. And of course there is plenty of cleaning to do. There is no need for you to work all day, but please do what you can while you are here. I must confer with Master Toe'n concerning other work that might better fit each of your talents. Until then, I think Caylen may have made a friend that would like to meet all of you." Mal'c looks toward the rear of the hall, were a young woman in orange robe is walking. She is looking around and as she notices Mal'c she smiles and offers a wave in Caylen's direction.

Perception rolls for all.

Later after dinner and whatever attempts the two men make to meet Shayne's challenge. Sometime during Granita's foot washing Sam returns from checking on the horse. He stands nearby making no attempt to hide his amusement at what is transpiring.

Mal'c chuckles freely, "That was quite a show. I'm looking forward to what tale our friend bard will share tonight. As he continues his preparations, let me show the rest of you around the monastery." With that, Mal'c stands. Other monks clear the table as Mal'c leads the group across the hall to a circular stairway much like the one they came down earlier.

Timeteo will offer Shayne this same tour, whether its on the way to the founders' cave to tell his tale, later in the evening, or the following morning. As they walk up the circular stairs Mal'c explains, "the masters chambers also serve as a training area for the monks."

As Mal'c leads the group through the monastery they see several areas:

• An expansive library.
  
• Stores of food.
  
• Small rooms for the monks to sleep (both in the small buildings where garden supplies are also kept and within the main monastery building).
  
• The reliquary (a set of large guarded doors, which Mal'c points out).
  
• A variety of training areas.

Once the tour is complete, Mal'c takes the group to the base of the monastery. Here they can see over a balcony the merchant wagon, its sides charred with flame. Sam chimes in, saying that he saw the horses in the stables. Mal'c offers everyone a chance to pay their respects. After paying his respects, Mal'c leads the group to the founders' cave.

I've got a general layout in mind for the monastery, but figured I wouldn't take to much time working up an actual map unless the group decided to stay.

Mal'c finishes his bite of food and then addresses Silx's question, speaking as much to the group as to the questioner. "It is my understanding that you may stay as long as you like. Though I imagine after resting you all will be expected to participate in the daily life of the monastery. Though I'd miss conversing with each of you, if you decide to depart worry not of any thoughts of disrespect. Mal'c smiles, though there is a bit of sadness in his eyes. If you all do decide to depart, I'd suggest heading south within a few days. Winter will come to the mountains soon."

Room selections: Left side: Room 2, Timoteo; Room 4, Shayne; Room 6; & Room 8. Right side: Room 1, Mal'c; Room 3; Room 5; & Room 7, Caylen.

As the group sits (Note where you are sitting at the table and if you took a cushion.) and a few more monks enter the room and sit, Master Toe’n emerges from a door directly behind the wooden post. As he is making his way toward the post, Voz descends the circular stairway and joins the group. (He sits near Shayne or Silx if possible.)

With a graceful leap, Master Toe'n lands easily atop the post. With a quiet calm spreading through the hall, Mal'c explains quickly gesturing toward the table to his left and nodding his head toward the table the group has gathered around. "These are the places of honor, the tables at the left and right hand of the master." Once situated those seated turn to face Master Toe'n if they weren't facing him already.

After about five minutes, Mal'c opens the door, stepping into the hallway - in a clean robe. "I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm hungry." He smiles and makes sure everyone is ready.

At some point post which room you're staying in and if you decide to share a room. (Left side: Room 2, Timoteo; Room 4; Room 6; & Room 8. Right side: Room 1, Mal'c; Room 3; Room 5; & Room 7.) I'll toss up a description of the rooms at some point.

Once everyone seems ready, Mal’c heads down the small stairway and then turn right, away from the stairway the leads to the hallway through which the group entered. This long hallway passes many stairways, several that lead to hallways lined with rooms much like the ones you and the others are staying in. After passing several such hallways, you come to an archway with a simple wooden door. It opens to circular stairway, which winds its way down. From the top of the stairway you can see that you have come to a large open hall, rectangular in shape. The smell of hot rice, spiced tea, and fresh vegetables fills the air.

The hall is carved within the rock; several stone columns line the outer part of the hall. Simple arches of sturdy wood further support the weight of the mountain above. Surrounded by the columns are eight low oak tables, which sit on unadorned carpet. Each table can accommodate eight. Men and women of a wide range of ages are beginning to sit, cross legged, around the tables. Though most are human, there are several dwarves, half-elves, and half-orcs among those gathering for the meal. The tables are quickly being surrounded by monks, all dressed like Mal’c. Toward the right side of the hall is a tall wooden post, driven into the ground; it stands about 10 feet into the air and is rounded at the top.

Once down the stairs, Mal’c leads you to a table near the front of the room (close to the wooden post). As the group nears the table, two young monks come from doors to the left and right of the wooden post. They carry small cushions, offering one to you with a slight bow.

Mal'c does his best to smile as Timoteo departs. He turns to the group. "I need only a moment to change my robe. There will be a wash basin in the hall were we will eat. If you wish to bathe, I will show you the communal pool along with the rest of the monastery after we eat." With that Mal'c head into the room Timoteo mentioned. He closes the door gently.

Once everyone has changed their shoes and stowed whatever gear they wish to leave behind, Mal’c addresses the group.

“I have never been asked to bring any outsider to see the master, let alone a group such as ours. It is custom to speak to the master only when spoken too. This is of course the way of the brothers and sisters who have dedicated their lives in this place. I ask of you only that you act with respect, according to your own judgement.”

Mal’c looks at each of you, nods, and turns - heading through the arch and down the hallway.

Although you pass one stairway as you walk down the quiet hallway, there seem to be no other arches or doorways. After walking about one hundred feet, the hallway ends at a wooden arch. Beyond the arch is a large open chamber. The floor is covered with small wooden squares of various sizes, placed so as to leave no gaps. Though the walls are stone, much of them are covered will long lengths of cloth. Some of the lengths of cloth feature large script, the strokes created by dark thread stitched into the lightly colored cloth. There are two doors at the far end of the chamber, one on the left and one on the right. The left door is closed. As the group enters, the right door opens and an elderly man walks through it. Mal’c walk to the center of the room, head bowed slightly, and kneels on both knees. He keeps his head bowed.

Mal'c smiles at Aak's question, "The first time I saw the monastery in the day light I asked nearly the same question. All the initiates learn the story by heart. We haven't time for all of it, but let me tell you a bit." Mal'c pauses, as if deciding how to start. As Mal'c begins the story, warm air rushes from the doorway.

Over three hundred years ago a group, not unlike ours, met in a cave that stood wear the large wooden doors now stand. The five, two dwarves, two humans, and a half-orc had all sought shelter in a horrible snow storm. Some sages believe a deity or other powerful being had a hand in guiding the five, but no one knows for certain. Such cold forced them to put aside whatever distrust they might have held toward one another. Huddling in the same cave for shelter, they helped each other survive the harsh winter’s wrath.

When the winds and the snow paused, the brothers raced out of the cave to gather food. Upon returning, they waited calmly for the storms to pass. By the time the season’s ferocity subsided, the five were hard at work constructing a monastery, agreeing to spend the rest of their lives together in the same sense of cooperation and friendship by which they had survived the last few months.

During the next hundred years the monastery attracted others that wished to grow in wisdom. It also attracted constant attacks. Only reluctantly did five Wise Ones agree to focus their studies on fighting. In that time and the time since that cave, which provided shelter, has been expanded on.

At the end of the road is the monastery, carved into the mountain. Other than the large wooden doors, which permit wagons to enter the outer chamber of the monastery, it seems one with the mountain.

Mal’c leads the group up a series of steps to the right of the large wooden doors, which are closed. The carved steps pass several other doorways, before ending at an ornately carved entrance. Here the wooden door is not made from several straight slats of wood. Instead the door has been carved from a single large piece of wood, including the handle. It’s surface is smooth and dark. Weathered, but well cared for the door moves easily as Mal’c moves the small metal lever nestled on the inside of the handle.

The hinges are practically silent, as is the hallway behind the door. Only the sounds of lanterns, flickering with the breeze from the open door, and quiet footfalls on stone can be heard.

Turning his head slightly Mal’c addresses the group. “We enter the master’s chambers. This is where we study and train. Outsiders are rarely permitted through this door. Brother Dow’mis has instructed me to take you to our master directly. We will stop only briefly, to remove our dirtied shoes and boots. Stay close and speak only if absolutely necessary.” Mal’c pauses, awaiting any questions or concerns. Once an appropriate amount of time has passed, Mal’c continues through the doorway. Feel free to post questions. I'll come back to them at this point even though I'm posting further description.

Fifteen feet from the doorway is a small stone arch to the right. Mal’c turns through the arch and gestures toward the wooden benches that line the small room. There is a large metal bowl in the center of the room, which holds hot coals, their heat is calming.

“You may leave your belongings here, they will be safe. You may bring what is most precious to you before the master, but there is no need to lug your supplies with you as they will be moved to your quarters later. You will find a selection of soft soled shoes beneath the benches. Please leave your footwear here and select shoes that you find comfortable.”

Mal’c finds an open spot on one of the benches, sits, and removes his shoes. Though they are dirty from the time on the road - it is clear that they were made much like the shoes that sit beneath the benches. Simple cloth, with a seam between the second and third toe, the shoes feature soft textured leather soles. The cloth and leather is an unadorned light brown.

Mal’c stands, waiting silently as everyone changes their shoes.

Mal'c heaves the greatclub up and over the mountain side. It's crashing sound slowly fades. Pulling the javelin from the ogre's makeshift belt, Mal'c breaks it over his knee. He tosses the remains to the side of the road.

"We'd better get moving. I'd rather not let nightfall reveal other surprises."

Mal'c turns and starts up the road, his pace only slightly slower than before.

Other than the tattered rags he wears, the only other belonging of concern that the ogre carries is a javelin that was tucked into is large belt.

Mal'c sits with the greatclub, not bothering with the javelin right away. He rubs his shoulder a bit, moves his arm, and then looks up smiling at Caylen.

"Thank you. He holds the narrow end of the club up, leaving the hefty end resting on the ground. Do any of you have use for this? I'm thinking I might just toss it over the cliffside to splinter into bits and pieces." Mal'c stands, looking over the group.

"That was quite some team work. Shall we continue to the monastery?"

Mal'c looks down at the large ogre. "So many of their kind have come into the mountains recently. I wonder what drives them to venture abroad? Mal'c rubs his shoulder while thinking aloud. We should take his weapons and hope he heads where ever he calls home. Hopfuly he'll warn the others to stay away."

With that Mal'c hoists the greatclub from the ogre's large hand.

Though the ogre is not dead, he won't be coming to anytime soon. Combat is over. We'll continue out of initiative.

Fearing the next wound will be a moral one, the ogre attempts to flee. (Attacks of opportunity for Mal'c, Silx, and Aak. Depending on positioning Caylen may also get an AoO.)

Mal'c 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 7 + 2 = 29; Unarmed Dmg:2d6 + 3 ⇒ (1, 1) + 3 = 5. Confirm Critical:1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11

The ogre falls to the ground, unconscious as Mal'c lands a strike.

Round four: Mal'c (action complete), Silx (up next), Shayne, Aak, & Caylen.

The ogre swings at Mal'c: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20; Dmg:2d8 + 7 ⇒ (7, 8) + 7 = 22. He connects solidly.

Mal'c responds by throwing another punch.
1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 2 = 25, Unarmed Dmg:2d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 2) + 3 = 10

Frustrated, the ogre reaches for his greatclub, picking it up with a large misshapen hand. Attacks of opportunity for Mal'c, Silx, and Aak. Silx and Mal'c are flanking.

AoO for Mal'c:1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 7 + 2 = 20, Unarmed Dmg:2d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 5) + 3 = 14

The ogre bellows as Mal'c connects. In anger, the ogre swings at Mal'c: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10, the swing misses widely.

Mal'c attacks: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 7 + 2 = 10, missing as he ducks the ogre's club.

Attacks of opportunity for Silx and Aak. Silx is flanking.

Round three: Mal'c (action complete), Silx (up next), Shayne, Aak, & Caylen.

You hear a deep voice just beyond the outcropping making at, "Ah, ugh" sound following the unmistakeable sound of a fist making contact.

Mal'c moves his mouth as if speaking.

With that he starts to sneak ahead. Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26

Initiative rolls. (Int for Mal'c:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13)

As Silx sneaks forward, Mal'c watches for any sign from the Drow.

Mal'd finishes his meal quietly and begins to clean up. "Take your time. I'm just excited to get to the monastery. Mal'c smiles as he finishes cleaning up.

Feel free to toss up any meal time conversation that takes place before the meal ends. After everyone has finished their meal and seems ready to continue Mal'c continues as follows.

Mal'c nods, seeing that everyone has eaten their fill and packed up whatever they had taken out for the meal. Sam finished tending the horse and nods at Mal'c. Mal'c turns and begins walking, slowly at first.

"Not to much longer."

As the group continues on the road, they reach a fork. Continuing to slop up toward the north is the road Mal'c guides the group toward. To the west, leveling out is another road. "That road heads back out of the mountains to the southwest."

Perception rolls for everyone.

Noticing Aak is struggling, Mal'c puts a hand on his shoulder. Re-roll Fort save for Aak.