Paul Pharez's page

I had decided that I was done with this issue. All I shall say is this. Paul, any venting I did toward anyone in the group was just that, venting. As for all the other issues... I wash my hands of it all. I enjoy playing with the people I play with, and I forgive everyone I know of thier "faults" And Paul any ill will you picked up from me toward anyone we know is not something I ment to pass on, for I have no ill will toward any of them.

Nore I.

Paul, Paul, Paul... What can I say, Until just recently I thought of you as an ok guy. A little on the crazy side, but aren't we all, but ok nontheless. Then I go and read your posts here and all I can think of is the countless times we as a group did make plans, only for your paladin, and yes it was always a paladin, to go and break them.

I resent to a very high degree being labled as a "chicken", yes, my CHARACTERS are for the most part chatoic, and they do things that often cause more trouble for those around them, but I must say I play this game for fun. As for morality, I am a very moral person, outside the game. And it appears to me that you have a very hard time distinguishing from the game and real life, because yes Paul, there is a difference. So, pull your head out of your "donkey" and move on. And as for your "callings" to come back to the game, get over it, you have not, nor will you ever get a higher calling from God to play D&D, it is just a need to have fun like the rest of us, you just need to let yourself have the fun when you decided to play again. And realize, please for all that are involved that it a game, just a game, and what people do around the table has nothing to do with who they are in real life, unless they are crazies, like you.

First I want to apolagize to the individual who started this thread. I wouldn't be responding if I wasn't convicted in doing so. So again I apologize. Stanley. Do you remeber those rides to and fro to the game. You rember those lucid moments of your righteous indignation. Ya see Stanley you created this, your words had an impact on my life. You taught me I didn't have to put up with a moraly misguided individual who wears "magical underwear". You taught me I didn't have to deal with a Church board member that didn't know the inside of a Bible let alone a Game of D&D. You taught me I didn't have to suffer a want to be police officer who has no love for a woman nor the guts to get himself out of a relationship with her. You taught me the value and the difference between right and wrong, be it good and evil, and that action speaks louder than words. You showed me on that day of retrabution that I was only second to you in indignation for a action of injustice towards me and my Character. So you see Stanley you helped make me what I have become today. So for that my friend ...Thank you. And for those on this thread I apologize once again for the interuption. GBU all.

Mr. Pharez,

Perhaps you are letting your personal morals and life into your game. D&D is at its heart a game of fantasy, it seems you’re blurring fantasy with reality. I consider myself a good Christian, God fearing man, however when I play D&D I am allowed to do things in my imagination I could never do or dream of doing in life.
If a man steals my wallet I will report him to the authorities, but if a rouge steals my CHARACTER’S gold pouch he will not live to steal again.
If a man attacks a friend in life, I will assist my friend but not unduly inflict pain on the assailant, however if a barbarian attacks my CHARACTER’S party, my CHARACTER will rain down fire upon him, until his charred carcass is left.
In life I go to church and worship a caring, loving god, but in the world of D&D my CHARACTER can worship a god of hate and slaughter. The game allows me to explore my personality that I cannot or would not explore in life.

You Wrote:
Frankly I find it hard lately to get with a good group of players, especially finding it difficult to fly with eagles when I am roosting with chickens. But it never fails, some how and some way I am called to return to the game (rolls eyes back). When I was in the military it was easy to hook up with D&Ders that were more disciplined and more careful to work as a team. It seems civilians lack the discipline.

Not all players or characters care about the same thing or have the same goals…that is what makes the game fun. Sure, a group of four Paladins will surely see eye to eye on most matters but where is the fun in playing such a game. Think of all the great stories where people with different mindsets were forced to work together to find common ground; Professor X and Magneto, Legolas and Gimli, Sam and Gollum, Kirk and Spock, the list goes on and on. Trying to become more than what you are makes for great story as do defeat and betrayal.

You Wrote:
Sir, it is not that I am better than you, it is that people choose to be less than me.

Then instead of...

Its interesting about the game of fantasy you begin to realize its form and its affect on many other levels. M't:15:18: But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

M't:5:28: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

M't:15:19: For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

Just as we express our thoughts our fantasies we express our truth that lies within our selves. Fantasy is our reality as our reality is our fantasy, and as you can see from above says alot about a person on an entire new level.

This is why I always play a Paladin. By no means is it easy, yet I do expect adversity for it is so written. Yet at the same token, I am called to maintain a moral value in which as a Paladin is difficult to maintain, yet it is not unatainable. Lu:1:6: And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

The question now stands about those who I play with. Again there is a time to stay and a time to leave.
2Co:6:14: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? The answer is simply ...NONE.

The question their lies with the individual, where do you draw the line and make a stand, do you compromise your virtue in order to tolerate evil or do you simply break away. I can not answer that question for you, but I certainly knew that answer for myself.
Isa:5:20: Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Isa:5:21: Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

As for being a good Christian, there are no good christians.
M't:19:17: And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

What I have found exciting about playing a Paladin, they are the first to be called to heal and the first called to die. For I am much better in knowing these truths. GBU and happy gaming.

Paul Pharez wrote:

It seems civilians lack the discipline.

I don't know why, but for some reason your post, Mr. Pharez, just seems very condescending and frankly, there's something in the undertone that is ingenuous and irritating. You seem to think you're above the rest of the gamers you've played with. And compare playing the game to the military? Dude, it's a hobby game for people that like to have fun. Yet you are putting your enjoyment of the game on par with the rigors of military discipline? Sorry. Doesn't sound very fun to me.

And the "rolls eyes back" thing about being "called" back to the game? What's that all about? If you don't enjoy playing the game and you think the rest of the gaming world are a bunch, how did you put it, "chickens" and you're the supreme alpha super cool "eagle", well, just stop playing. You obviously have too high of an opinion of yourself to play a fun hobby game with the rest of us poultry!

I wouldn't be surprised if with that attitude you've found yourself bouncing from game to game because the other players simply couldn't stand you.

Sounds like you should invest some money in solo adventures. In fact, here's a good place to look for some. Have fun playing with yourself!

Sir, it is not that I am better than you, it is that people choose to be less than me. Moral and ethical principles were the things that shaped this once great nation. Which has turned to nothing more than a Sodom and Gamora, Babylon, Rome, all these places in our history denotes an empire that fell due to immorality. The standard of righteousness is denoted in the Bible one in which again this nation was founded on. While we contend to go down the slipery slope of immorality we will see this nations, end of days. In the mean time I will continue to search for fellow adventurers who are willining to uphold the moral cannons, principles and laws that have been with us from the very begining of creation. It is not suprising to see the constant fall of man in light of this,

Amen.

I have lost count how many times I have quit playing to the point of selling off all my minis as well as books. Frankly I find it hard lately to get with a good group of players, especially finding it difficult to fly with eagles when I am roosting with chickens. But it never fails, some how and some way I am called to return to the game (rolls eyes back). When I was in the military it was easy to hook up with D&Ders that were more disciplined and more careful to work as a team. It seems civilians lack the disciplin. Well if you bow out I sure wouldn't blame you, but be warned it may be only for a short time.

Joes Story continued...

Sturday 9 Wealson 585 CY 1200 Old Cemetery Extension
Water begins trickling down in the lower cavern saturating the area in which Joe is sitting. Joe begins to cry out, yet over the noise of the trickling water and the thunderstorms over head muffles his voice to any nearby rescuers. The cavern slowly fills with water as the skeleton slowly submerges below the on coming rain. Joe yells out once again, yet the rain storm does not hold back its fury.

Sturday 9 Wealson 585 CY 1205 Old Cemetery Extension
The search party continues to search around the old grave sight when Theodore notices another oddity, a stone grave mausoleum has water seeping through some boarded up hole next to it. The stone grave when touched turns out to be nothing more than a wooden box that at one time was intended to cover the hole. Looking down into the hole Theodore could see what apparently is a old well which at the moment was filling up with water. Theodore instinctively hollers out, JOE! JOE! ARE YOU THERE?

Dad? DAD! DAD! I’M IN HERE. ITS FILLING UP WITH WATER DAD PLEASE HELP ME!

The hole is too small for any man to go in when Michael stands up to see if he could help. At that point Theodore ties the rope around Michael who more than willingly takes upon himself to do so. Theodore lowers the rope as the others assist. Joe is standing up now unaware he is clutching on to the arrow and sash. Michael is lowered and begins to untie himself and tie Joe. Quickly he is raised up into the hands of his dad and then onto the acolytes when the rope is lowered once again to retrieve Michael. The water in the well has risen another foot where Michael is just short of having to tread water. Hastily Michael ties off the rope and the remainder of the party pulls him out of harms way as the well continues to fill.

Just before Joe passes out with exhaustion he tells about a man who was down there named Ru Ock.

Sturday 9 Wealson 585 CY 1300 Old Cemetery
Once they arrive at base camp the acolytes tend to Joes needs as Theodore was looking on he can see two items that Joe was holding in his hand, one within his belt. A arrow and a sash. Theodore immediately recognized the sash. It was his fathers and after close examination realized it was Nigels arrow. After looking back at the well, Theodore carefully put aside these new found possessions in a place where he can examine them further.

Sunday 10 Wealson 585 CY 0800 Old Cemetery
The storm had passed and the camp was broken down as Joe and the Tradesman family returned to the Manor House. Strangely enough Nigel never returned to base camp even to see if he was home appeared to be abandoned as well.

Epilogue:
For years Joe would speak of his Friend Ru Ock and it seemed Ru Ock was the true hero of the day. As for the well; eventually Theodore had it examined by the local constable and discovered that there was a man at the bottom of the well. The remains were taken to the temple of Pelor and Brother Icairius confirmed in fact that it was truly Theodore’s dad. A bounty was up for the return for questioning of Nigel Bear Trap, but as the days continued Nigiel was never seen again.

Icairius finally was able to make the Old Cemetery as new, even was able to post a sign of its original name, “True Rock Cemetery’. Theodore gave his dad Darius Trades man a proper burial and up to the day in which they departed for Sasserine they continue to visit his grave sight at the True Rock Cemetery. As for Joe, well, that’s a on going story. Just remember, everyone needs a friend.

11 Coldeven, 597 CY
Joe awakens from th other side of death and their standing beside him is Ru Ock. Ru Ock where am I?

Your finally home Joe.

Joe Smiles.

Joe, by the way my name is not Ru Ock.

Really?

No Joe, it is …

Fade to black.

I’m Done

Joe's Story

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1500PM The Old Cemetery
Theodore enters in a small clearing to an area of grave sites from long ago. Most of the graves and memorials are over grown with brush and vegetation. Most of the headstones knocked on to the ground as if it was done more recently were a clue of his sons doing. Beyond the sounds of his horse stirring, the silent in the trees and the wood was alarming. Theodore yelled out, JOE! JOE! JOE! The silent was suddenly disturbed by another voice. DAD! DAD!

Michael? Theodore responded. Unaware of there predicament Theodore began following after the voice of his son Michael. Others from his group began to arrive as they too followed after Theodore.
Dad! Dad! We are over here! Mom’s hurt! Theodore began lifting up his stride as he bean to approach a long wash. There at the bottom of it he could see his wife Julia lying down beside Michael who standing up with dry streaks of tears on his face. “By the gods” what happened?

Julia responds, “I broke my ankle.” Theodore grabs a rope off his saddle as the rest of his men start doing the same thing. One at a time they come down off the side of the wash making inventory of the situation. The men begin making a gurney while Michael makes his way up the wash. Michael relieved of their rescue walks over to the nearby cemetery. Calling out again for Joe, As the men manage to get Julia out of the ravine some are tasked to take her home. Julia argues to remain as the two agree until more help arrives. The men turn their attention to the search for Joe and begin fanning out around the cemetery. As the men did so Theodore began to question Michael.

Apparently the boys use to come here and tell scary stories. This would explain why many nights they would be up to the wee ours scared. More recently they had taken it upon themselves to add vandalism to their scary stories. Cameron had grown tired of coming to the Cemetery while Michael wanted to teach Joe the lessons of knocking down tomb stones. It didn’t take long to figure that Michael got a little bit over grossed in his deeds when he realized Joe was missing. The question still remains, how long?

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1600PM The Old Cemetery
The Tradesman servants continue to search the area of any sign of Joe. Theodore tries every means of tracking his son’s whereabouts and fails. Frustrated by his attempts more people begin showing from Greater Gradsul. The Servants of Pelor, local families as well as some of the militia. A hundred people totaled who were there to help find Joe. The blood hounds for some unknown reason are unable to track in this area, so they went to the outer parts of the cemetery.

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1700PM Old Cemetery
Sun is going down and the men begin preparing camp for an over night when Niegel Bear Trap arrives offering his skills in tracking. Some people sensed he was a bit on edge but it was believed it was because he had once tracked a Troll cave near by. Needless to say a search party was gathered to accompany Niegel to the cave while others began to return home and come at first light.

Sturday 8 Wealson 585CY, 0000 Hour Old Cemetery
Tracking party returns after searching Troll cave, some how the party got separated from Niegel but was able to find one another once again in the trail back. The men bed down for the night and wait first day light.

Sturday 8 Wealson 585 CY, 0600 Hour Old Cemetery
Encampment comes alive once again as Niegel offers to track down some local caves in hopes to find Joe. This time Theodore accompanies Niegel and the men to try his skills at tracking.

To be continued...

Joes Story

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1000AM Tradesman Manor just outside of Gradsul
Theodore and Julia (Joe’s Dad and Mom) are resting at the Manor, when they suddenly both get up from their easy chairs overcome with a strong premonition, “Something is wrong with Joe!”
Mother begins frantically searching through the house as Joe’s Dad, getting dressed, instinctively reaches for his sword. Dad mentions that “the boys most likely were playing out in the grove“.
Julia searches the house, taking inventory of the children in different rooms. First the nursery: Elsirus with Beatrice and their nanny Millie telling a story called “a chicken and a chicken that wasn‘t“. Julia in a anxious tone asks Millie if she had seen Joe, but Millie last saw Joe out in the yard playing. Cameron is in the boys’ room playing with his toys, while Deanna is preparing lunch in the kitchen. Hurriedly, Julia continues down the long corridor down to the boys’ room and indeed sees Cameron playing with his toy soldiers and a pretend castle. Julia asks Cameron, “Do you know where Joe is?” Cameron looks up a bit surprised, pauses for a moment and replies that Joe is out with Michael. (Michael is the eldest, responsible for watching over his siblings).

Julia begins to grill Cameron, about where Michael may have gone with Joe. “Well”, Cameron says as if hiding something, “they are most likely at the grove“. Immediately, not accounting of Cameron’s reluctance, Julia runs downstairs, hoping to intercept Joe’s Dad, to share the information.
All the kids are watching their Mom running back and forth. Deanna comes out of the kitchen wondering what all the commotion is. ”Where is Joe?, have you seen him?”, Julia asks, with tears in her eyes.
Joe’s Dad quickly exit’s the Manor heading to the grove, faintly visible on the periphery of the forest.
From a distance they all hear Theodore calling out for Joe. After a while, disappointedly hearing no response, Theodore runs back to the house and orders the formation of a search party.
Catching up with Theo, Julia reports that everyone except for Michael and Joe are in the house, and that Cameron thought they were last playing in the grove.

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1015AM The Old Cemetery.
Knocking over headstones at the old cemetery, Michael, thinking that he heard Joe’s scream, realizes that Joe is nowhere to be found. Overcome with a sense of dread, he cries out for Joe, searching throughout the cemetery. Alarmed by the futility of his search, Michael is overwhelmed by fear and heads for the Manor, crying all the way home. Grimy and tired Michael makes his way to the property line of Tradesman Manor. He can see his Dad with a small contingency of servants and stable hands on horseback, heading in the opposite direction: towards the grove. Michael, yells at the top of his lungs in hopes to catch his father’s attention.
But, Michael’s father with his servants race out of sight, deep in to the forest, to search the grove for missing Joe.***

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1100AM Tradesman Manor
Cameron while hearing the fervor of his mothers despair and now that the entire family is up in arms begins to come down the stairs crying. Julia turns around seeing his son’s condition tells Cameron that it will be alright. Cameron ill at ease of his mother’s words tells her that it won’t be alright. Julia puzzled looked at Cameron surprised and asked what he meant. Cameron in a fit of tears cries out that Michael and Joe are at the old cemetery. Julia’s face goes flush as Michael comes running through the front door covered in mud, sweat and tears. Exasperated from his marathon, Michael cries to his mother that he can’t find Joe. Julia’s face immediately turns to anger as the boys have been told countless amount of times to never to go to the old cemetery. The tears increased between Cameron and Michael as Julia also broke down in tears grabbing and clutching on to her two boys to help ease their pain.

Moments pass as Julia finally gathers composure. Wiping the tears from her face as well as her boys she begins to give out orders. Cameron I want you to get your dad out of the grove and tell him where we went. Cameron briefly sniffles and runs out the front door of the manor. Deanna, go down to the temple of Pelor and get Brother Icairious and let him know what has happened. Deanna immediately puts down her apron and begins to run to town to the temple of Pelor. Millie, stay with the babies and Michael you are with me. Julia picks up her husbands back pack and begins a journey to the old cemetery with Michael leading the way.

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1200PM Temple of Pelor.
Deanna enters into the chapel proper and hails a nearby acolyte. Trying to catch her breath she explains of the need to speak with brother Icairious. They both immediately enter the chapel area as the brother standing upon the pulpit giving a sermon with nearly a hundred patrons sitting in the pews. With the sudden entry of both the acolyte and Deanna, Brother Icairius stopped his sermon as the entire congregation watched on as the two quickly moved to the pulpit. Deanna explained the situation as her words seemed to echo through out the temple. The patrons began speaking one amongst the others as many of them began leaving their seats as to go to the nearby old cemetery. Icairious even though spoke out in dismissing the congregation people were already heading out of the pews and into the chapel proper. Men were taking up horses while others returning to their homes to get some gear. It was like a small army was leaving for the old cemetery. Horses, wagons, blood hounds and entire contingency of people began a forced march to the old cemetery.

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1300PM Beyond the Grove
Cameron with all haste runs through the grove in hopes to find his dad and the search party. Apparently they have moved on and expanded the search and rather than turning back to the Manor House Cameron continues through the grove to the outer fence of the Estate. As Cameron continues he can hear from afar the sounds of men calling out for Michael and Joe. Managing to make it through the tree line he can see his dad’s men searching in the pattern of a strait line with his dad sitting atop his black stallion calling out for his son’s squinting in hopes to see a clearer picture of them in the nearby wood. Cameron calling out from the top of his lungs gets his fathers attention. Theodore turns his horse and quickly rides to meet with his son. Out of breath Cameron tells his dad of what he was told as Theodore picks Cameron up on the saddle and returns to his men. The men began gathering up their horses and those who had no horses began the trek to the old cemetery.

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, 1300PM Through the Wood
The pace between Julia and her son Michael was slow and difficult. Michael was already exhausted from running home to bare the news. As his mother was trying to ensure a firm path, her foot gave out from under her and began to fall. Michael instinctively tried to grab his mothers hand but to no avail, she began a spiral into a wash falling awkwardly into its rocky and wood congested place. Julia can hear the strain in her ankle and new before she came to a halt that it was broken. Michael trekked down to his mother seeing her crying with pain. His eyes began to swell with tears feeling guilty for all that has happened so far. As Julia tried to grab hold of something sturdy to help her back on her feet, it was useless, her ankle was broke. Julia tried to ease Michael’s frustration encouraging him that things will be alright. Julia shifted herself to grab hold of her husbands bag to find whatever resources that were their. As Michael looked on he managed to gather some wood in hopes to make a brace and a cane. Than began working together to help his mom get her ankle set so she could get out of the wash. They both tried together but both of them combined were too tired. Julia took out some treats that her husband had in his bag and split it with Michael which help lift up both of their spirits. They drank some water from her husband’s canteen in which they both shared. Sitting their encouraging one another that soon some one will come and find them off the foot path, they sat and rested, waiting for the first signs of life.

More to come...

Some times all a person needs is a good friend.

18 Readying 597CY

Joe leaves from the Captains quarters with a blank stare and slowly walks to the bow of the Sea Wyvern with out acknowledging any one onboard deck. He begins a vigil looking out to sea as if looking a thousand miles away. Moments pass as the world around him swirl out of sight.

A specter approaches from his left rear clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; and his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. The specter lifts his hand and places it upon Joes shoulder, a moment passes and the specter speaks; Joe, Joe…are you all right?

“Honestly sir…no. I am not alright as a matter of fact I am all wrong.”

“Why do you think you are all wrong?”

“Well I made an oath a pack and it is like everything I have promised and believed in just went out the door.” Joe stops momentarily to look upon the man next to him as if looking at a long lost friend. “I know you, don’t I?”

“Of course Joe, do you not remember the well?”

Freeday 7 Wealson 585CY, somewhere in a cemetery in Gradsul

Falling, falling, falling down in a deep dark place no place to grab and no where to go, until a great splash surrounds me and the sounds of water foaming around me yet I am able to stand up. I am scared, crying, I am hurt, I think. There in the dim light is a man no; it’s not a man but the skeleton of a man. I am more frightened and there beside the man is a sign. A sign, a sign that spells R-U O-C-K, I scream and everything goes black.

Aboard the Sea Wyvern:

You were there. You watched over me and took the fear away you are Ru Ock.

The Specter giggles. Yes, I have always been there.

I remember even as I was growing up you were there even as I went through school. You helped me to deal with the bullies even when I lost the fight. My parents didn’t under stand. That’s right. It’s been a while.

Yes, you nearly died not too long ago, once in the mountain of fire and Iron and once on board this ship.

Yes. I was truly ready to die at both situations.

I know.

But now, I seem to be making a mess of everything. Amella is totally disattached and I feel to blame for every thing that has gone wrong.

Joe, look out there. The Specter points his hand to the waters. What do you see?

Joe responds, water.

Look deeper Joe.

I can’t the water is too deep.

Can you not see the bottom?

No, like I said the water is too deep.

Ya see Joe everyone has a lot of water and you must trudge through that water to get to the bottom.

But Ru Ock, it’s nearly impossible to get to the bottom with having to deal with the dangers of diving to the bottom.

Ya see Joe you must be willing to face those dangers with those who you love and care for. That is called sacrifice. In that sacrifice you must come to the understanding that love not only requires sacrifice, but accepting a person for who and what they are, good, bad or indifferent, that in and of itself is total love.

But what about all those people who have died on board this ship?

Joe, each and every person on board this ship came by their own freewill. They knew the dangers and the threats that lie each and every day while sailing. You are no more responsible for the lives of others than you are responsible in the changing of the sea.

But what about those pirates?

What about them?

We nearly had them in our grasp.

Yes you nearly did, but in that what did you learn?

That at some point in time you have to make a stand no matter what the outcome.

Are you prepared to face the outcome?

Yes.

Then you have learned.

But what about that Sea Hydra?

What about it?

We let down our guard and all those people died needlessly.

Joe tell me about that lagoon?

The Lagoon?

Yes the Lagoon, tell me about it, all of it?

Well…It was beautiful, it was really amazing, we sat on a rock and simply enjoyed the moment. It was the first time for all of us finding some peace in this voyage. I truly loved it. But that darn Sea Hydra!

Joe, listen to yourself. You had a perfect love and a perfect peace. Ya need to focus on that. Ya see Joe there is always going to be some one or something that is going to try to take away your joy, take away your peace. Focus on the good things and they will come more often to you. It is too easy to focus on the ugly things in life, but the challenge is to focus on the good things in life. Do you understand Joe?

Yea I think so. But what about Amella?

What about her?

What should I do?

Learn. Remember Joe everyone has freewill, we must exercise the right of others to do as their conscience dictates even if their conscience has been seared with a hot iron. There are deeper issues here Joe, so how far are you truly willing to go.

Joe continues to stair off out to sea. I guess I have a lot to learn.

Ru Ock smiles and continues to be at Joe’s side.

Joe in his contemplations 23-24 Fireseek, 597 CY

What is it about this woman that intrigues me? I am almost embarrassed of my more recent actions, this is so unlike me. But I can’t seem to resist her presence, her lure. I must some how control my emotions. How intriguing to be in a situation of most precarious circumstance, I can not help from noticing this on going smile on my face, it would have been nice to have some advice from my dad. Regrettably it was my brothers and there wayward styles that repulsed me. I see no honor to kiss and tell. There fore things are as they should be.

It was inevitable, Avner stirred up a hornets nest with the fighter Denick. It seems a dual on the field of honor appropriate. Bosco tried to convince Avner not to go on the quest for Tamoachan. Personally I had hoped that Avner would come along with us to allow his pride to get in the way of himself before he brings harm to the others aboard this ship. This man will be the cause of our misery and perhaps even a mutiny. His death will be one of joy rather than regret. Needless to say Avner stayed on board. Maybe a sea serpent will take him.

It has been brought to my attention that Tolin was having some form of confrontation with the good Lady Lavinia. I must make it a point to investigate this further upon our return from Tamoacan. I had a weird feeling he was a bit possessive towards the Lady in our last get together, uncomfortably so.

When Bosco had mentioned to Avner that there would be a dragon, I thought he was bluffing. Go figure a green at that. He even wanted to parlay with us. I must confess I was a bit hesitant to slay the beast considering it offered information of this area. Which in and of itself was very valuable. It didn’t take long for the rest of the party to slay the creature out right. I must be getting a bit softer in these strange times. There is more on my plate than I would have ever expected. I want my mommy. That’s just nuts; I really need to get a hold of myself.

Ya know it wasn’t smart sending Sakeema to search out those caves after Id send forth a screeching dire rat in that area. This is one time I wished he didn’t listen to me. Fortunately he was restored by Urgol. Those poor souls still standing there in stone form. I only wish there was more of that potion that would return them back to their true form.

After the Basilisks being dead I had hoped the remainder of our search through Tamoachan would come to a peaceful end, but it appears that this place is filled with all forms of hazards one in which gave Serena and Bosco a case of mummy rot. They are not looking good and the prognosis is deadly. The strange magical trap and fire trap was relatively easy and with the assist of Denick and the mages were able to defeat a whil-o-whisp. I hope we are able to find something in here that will restore Serena and Bosco. In the mean time I can’t seem to stop smiling. Fortunately this helm I am wearing is helping to hide my joy.

Dear Mom and family
6 Needfest
The first leg of our voyage was for the most part interesting. Having to choose a respectable crew was easy with the assistance of the Captain from the Blue Nixie and Lady Lavinia. Tavey has been a good and faithful servant, he reminds me a bit like Elsirus, always getting into everything, thanks Uncle David. I have sent him to do basic chores on ship to include up keeping and maintaining the Captains table. He also is great for listening. I have instructed him that it is not nice to gossip but when the crew and ship is at risk to inform me of what is going on.

Captain Amella Vankalie is by no means a Lady, but she is direct and much disciplined. One thing I must add, her use of the common tongue is unprecedented. She has spoken so many words that I must confess I have never heard of before. Considering how many of the older men and woman on board react to her language I suspect it is both derogatory and a bit irreverent, but that aside she is a good leader and does not put up with babysitting or nurse maids. Even the passengers are forced to keep to her demands and orders. She said I reminded her of her previous husband. Truthfully I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or bad thing considering the way she looked at me well…it was a bit awkward. Any way…most of the people are a lot older than me for the exception of Tavney and seamen Learith Vanderose. She is a bit younger than me but she looks way older. We found her in some bar fight but the Captain vouched for her claiming her to be a great seamen. She was winning the fight apparently quite a scraper which is good, god forbids we run into any trouble. Then there is the First Mate, his name is Skald from what I recon. Very observant and good with the bow, he has observed a quite distasteful act of skullduggery on board.

I should probably start this from the beginning. We have acquired a noble as a passenger who’s name is Avner Meravanchi. A real stuck up old coot that has neither sense of humility nor respect of his fellow man. I was compelled to bring his horse on board along with an entourage of two man servants. The crew along with most of the ships company totally despises the man. I must confess me for one am one of them. My concern has been to try to keep him as comfortable as possible and away from most of the people on board. This is not an easy task with 40 people on board ship. Needless to say the other night we managed across to the Blue Nixie to have dined with Lady Lavinia, the ships captain along with the Jade Ravens and a few VIP’s. One of which was Avner. He did not take to liking to the fact few at the table recognized his position, but upon our return to the Sea Wyvern he was first to cross when the ropes failed. We were able to recover Avner but once we made it over Skald had found that the ropes were purposefully cut. In light of these events I am uncertain that the perpetrator intended to bring harm to Avner or simply humble him. Needless to say if this escalates I will have to take more firm control over these things. I have told nobody else of this situation other than Captain Amella and persuaded Skald to keep it to himself as we quietly investigate.

I happen to be writing you from Fort Blackwell. We have stopped for supplies and to allow the passengers a little chance to see the sights. My group the Rusty Raiders went to follow up on some gossip about some strange things going on at a near by sea cave. It turned out to be three Faye creatures who had been stealing from the local garrison. We returned the garrison’s equipment and supplies and managed to acquire a few magical items in the mix. In the mean time give my love to everyone and pray I will find Dad and Deanna at the Isle of Dread.

Love Joe

P.S. I miss you guys.

Strange Times:

Sitting on a park bench with Tarren in some foreign city on the guise that we are there to help support the aligning army; It turned out neither was our supplies there but nor was our weapons. I caught the attention of a passing officer hailing him to assist if he could help in our dilemma. I told the lieutenant we were here on reserves but we need some form of transportation to get around. Instead he offered us a small wooden pony that a child would use and could see no sense in it. The lieutenant was forthcoming and very serious about his offer. I got up frustrated from my place and decided to write home and ask to send my own sword. I then went to the near by messenger service when a large man who was apparently a general of the local armies approached me and addressed me as Captain. He wanted to know if I would be interested in coming with him to acquire some old swords that were tried and true. Apparently they have been kept on display for some time from past wars and battles and welcomed the opportunity to try them. I then went with the large man when I found myself hovering above my broken body. There beside me laid Tarren lifeless. It appeared the battle with Sir Steel Heart ended with disaster.

As I looked upon the scene some how my body was dragged from the room of our last battle. It was fortunate that I carried some extra potions of curing along with a wand of cure light. Serena used the potions to revive me but regrettably her cousin was far to gone for any healing. First time I was this close to dead (-9). I couldn’t help but feel the lingering emotion left me from the dream, or vision or whatever it was with frustration. Frustration, we might as well as hit ourselves against a wall than to have returned to face the wayward knight. Observing the booty it was apparent the idea to bring justice was clouded with greed. I was short a sword, shield and the party its cure mod wand. Once we left this place we did all that we could to finish the secondary goal and with much success.

Since Tarren wished to be buried at sea I was more than obliged to fulfill his dieing wish. I must confess even in light of the gains we made with the Horn the feeling of frustration continues to linger. I hope when we are called by the Lady to further her families legacy we would have more satisfying results than dealing with a wall.

Now they are content to gather their forces in Grabord some 20 miles to the south and wait for the most opportune time to strike again.

G-R-A-B-F-O-R-D!!! GRABFORD!!!

BA Communcations & Management, UNLV. Harvard School of Business, AA Communications CCSN and AS Munitions Systems Technology(USAF). AMMO!!! To name a few.

Ah-Leph wrote:

Beyond Destiny Stone #8

It appears our cause has not gone with out notice, the trip to Bradford...

Grabford! Grabford! G-R-A-B-Ford. Aaaarrgghh!

GRABFORD!!! You would think as a character so close to the story line would know where he use to live would know the name of some of those places close to his home. Yet Ah-Leph still struggles with some memory loss. LOL.

I must confess that being a Pastor, Minister, Preacher and radio talk show personality on a christian radio station tends to get me "the look" any time I mention I play D&D. Other than "being a source for the devil to work through me as well as the game in and of itself being demonic." I pretty much gave up on telling any of my fellow Christians on what I do on my Friday nights which by the way is the Sabbath.

Then of course when you share with the unsuspecting young Christian what D&D consists of they run in horror. From waht I understand ther are some religions that have actually outlawed D&D in some states, maybe in Utah. Whatever! Any way my wife is not too hot on me playing either, she feels the Lord will correct me when the time comes. My explanation doesn't seem to sway to many Christians but its better than getting drunk, chasing woman and talk like a broken sailor. GBU :)

My very first adventure I played in a module of U1,2 & 3 Sinister secret of Saltmarsh series. I was stationed at RAF Upper Heyford England and my group had frequented the local mideval banquets. My Character was a ranger named Oy-ve-ismia. The first time I DM'd a game was in the same series of adventures 6 years later.

Ah-Leph has a waking dream:
Blackhawk keep had been overrun. The gates lie shattered and burning, portions of walls lie in heaps exposing great holes where the enemy had poured in, their numbers overwhelming. Outbuildings were systematically being pulled down or burned.

A desperate battle had been fought in the halls of the keep, but there were just too few to defend it.

In the tower of the archivist a great fire raged, the easily combustible materials there fueling the fire to ever greater proportions. A bookcase on one of the outer walls collapsed along with part of the outer wall. A signed scroll tube bounced oddly when it struck the stone floor and rolled under a heap of stone blocks where somehow it escaped the flames that burned nearly everything else that had been meticulously
stored there for 5 generations.

The vision ended as quickly as it had begun with Ah-Leph's mind holding that final image of the scroll tube rolling under the heap of stones, troubling him with its mysterious, yet obvious significance.

Since we are quoting religious texts, here's a little ditty the proslytizing priests of Pelor often sing in the temple as they revel in the holiness of their God. I'm sure Ah-Leph will hear it many times before the party is ready to depart Seltaren.

We are not the ordinary,
Fearlessly extraordinary,
Working righteous Hari Kari,
In our humble way,

(REFRAIN)
Humble way, now.
Humble way.
Our humble way.

Bearing swords of truth we plunder,
Slicing wicked men a'sunder,
We are something of a wonder,
In our humble way.

(REFRAIN)

Crooked generation,
We demand your veneration.
Will you shake your heels at us
as we call you to your knees?

Crooked generation,
Will you scoff at foreordination?
We are warriors by our rights,
so respect us, if you please.

We are not the ordinary,
Fearlessly extraordinary,
Working righteous Hari Kari,
In our humble way,

(FINAL REFRAIN)

Cool!

Aha! Our Bible-quoting deathless adventurer is beginning to remember things. I guess those tentacles that had him all wrapped up squeezed some memories loose!

Ya Know Steve, that Icon you've chosen looks alot like Michael Jackson. Things that make you go hmmmmmmmm!

Hmm, I just took notice of this board, and it now sheds some light on why Steve takes such delight in killing off his players' characters... He is trying to win a contest. Well Steve, it appears as though you are well ahead, so how 'bout taking it easy on us for a few?

Personally I am still trying to figure out what is so great about Maure castle. I could understand why so many people are enamored over Gary Gygax, but frankly he is still not all that. I personally like Steve's own creations, they tend to bare more life to it and Gary, well he seems to take too much pleasure in death. Unfortuantely there are more and more people like Gary than there are those who seek the joy of life in and of itself. Curious to see what other horrid things we find in Maure castle. More than likely we will see more character deaths and new character creations before this is all over.

What is my problem, it seems as though every day I find something else that truely just frightens me to my core. This time it is some sort of bat thing...Oh how I hate ths freaking dungeon.

Andrew!Andrew! Fear not. O death where is thy sting, O grave where is thy victory.Fear is your enemy.Cooler heads will prevail.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin # 49

Paladins Log CY 5930402: Fate be as it may, my assertiveness had paid off. The woman who had left the seen had apparently encountered some evidence of my father; she acquired my father’s journal as her own. Had I not seen the family seal of the roaring lion I would have passed it off as discarded information. But now my hopes of finding out his fate are closer at hand than I expected. Leaving a note behind if the woman returns to her dwelling place may be a full hardy attempt, but there is no telling what information no matter how valuable it may be could bring me closer to finding my father.

This day felt like several weeks. The stone golem, the elf woman, teargs followed by an onslaught of fiendish Gnolls made for a fully long day. I am puzzled of the presence of the Gnoll demon god’s followers being here in the ruins. This place seems to be an orgy for the occult. No telling what or who else is down here and from what our friend Savaun has told us there is a mechanical hydra of some kind guarding the lower areas of this dungeon apparently near the place of antiquities where it is suspected where the Destiny Stone lies.
We have managed to find some treasure to help in our exploits. It was decided to wait until we finish off this level of the dungeon before we return into town.

For sentimental reasons I will be holding on to my fathers journal, Tiberius Banes Daystar, although it be empty it will be made ready for him. Thank Heironeous no one has died this day. The quest continues...

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #48

Paladin’s thoughts 5930402: Searching through these vast amounts of sleeping quarters I didn’t want to leave anything undone. Using the grappling hook and rope to turn the pillows lying on the floor made me want to insure all stones were not left unturned. There is no telling what lengths these treacherous Seekers have done to impede our quest. These glyphs of warding had already taken too many lives in this dungeon and now seeing the veracity of the Seeker’s has made me a bit wearier of any one else we might find down here.

I have been watching Andrew and he is beginning to get sloppy around each one of these corners. Not taking the time if there are any signs of glyphs etched around in the walls. I am almost ready to step out on my own searching the hallway in which we last saw the wretched seekers came from. I’ll take more of a defensive stance in the rear of the party and hopes for the best and plan for the worst.

An acrid smell of a pool of acid caused me to cover my mouth and nostrils. Looking about seeking any forms of life or treachery. I was asked to check out a stone figure and turned out with my golems bane was able to detect it as a stone golem. I immediately spelled up and engaged the monstrosity. With the assistance of our newfound friend Savaun, Corallis and with the magic assistance of Mira Luna and Sulstan we were able to make short work of the magical monster.

Discovering a woman down here added to the spice of the adventure. Apparently she was aiding the seekers in making guard dogs if you will. The group seemed to have a moral dilemma. I for the most part looked on. She was apparently guilty by association yet the code of Law dictates; Law requires Judgment, Justice requires Mercy and Grace, Justice without Mercy and Grace is Vengeance. I choose the better part of justice to not pursue the woman. The information she had was in her quarters and made the information valuable for any up and coming encounters. It is a far-gone conclusion we will meet some more of her trained pets. As for the wealth and valuables of her belongings they meant little to me and apparently to the Elven woman that had fled with her tiger. The only thing important is getting to the Destiny Stone. Since the Seekers have now become a hindrance to our quest they must be handled righteously.

Truthfully my patience is growing thin, its taking far too long to get to our goal I had never imagined this part of our quest would be so tedious. The party is still ironing out its own personal dilemmas. I suppose if there is one thing I am to learn of this and that is “patience”. Perhaps trying not to speed up our progression but to slow it down and proceed with more caution. Besides I am not sure I am ready for the after life, neither do I suspect it be ready for me.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #47

Paladins Log 5930401 supplemental: We have returned back once again from the Ruins of Maure Castle. Andrew and Thal ‘Talis are dead it was but for a few moments after teleporting into the ruins that we first hit a snag of a trapped door. The door apparently activated several spears that were poisoned and pin cushioned our good cleric. Fortunately I was able to give him a potion that neutralizes poison, which saved him from its deadly affects. We then descended into a lower portion of the castle and was met by some oversized guard dog/cat either way it bit a huge chunk out of Thal’ Talis and he was quickly stabilized by the cleric of Pelor.
Soon after we were then ambushed by a group of Seekers and was apparently no longer considered as allies especially the fact they are evil. As the fight went on that is when Andrew and Thal’Talis met their end. A wall covered by a tapestry was uncovered and behind it were some symbols of death in which most of us were exposed to. It took some time but we managed to neutralize the threat and take what we could off our foes and teleported ourselves back to Selteran. It is slow moving in our quest for the Destiny Stone. We managed to raise Andrew and Thal’Talis is enjoying the splendor of the after life. Tysis has chosen to stand where his companion once stood to continue on the journey for fortune and glory. I personally grieved to have seen the once noble family of Black Hawk had no representation. His strange disappearance from the group will be an added mystery as the days move on.
I can not emphasize enough to my companions that caution is not too extreme as we slowly move into the depths of Maure Castle. End of Log.

Ahh... So NPCs aren't people too? Damn your prejudice!

I'M sowwy :(

But, no, he yet lives. The others, God's bless them, got to him in time to save him. I'm going to have stick much closer to this elf child if I'm to have any hopes of saving his foolish arse.

Ok, Now I am a bit confused, I thought Tysis was an NPC?

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #46 continued again

Lady Regina Daystar
Daystar Estates
Callistor, Duchy of Korenflass, Nyrond

Dearest Mother,
It has been much too long. I miss your fruitcakes, cream pies and homemade wines. But most of all I miss your laughter and wisdom. My last message sent to you was when I was in Marner the good Paladin of the local temple was kind to relay word to you and the remainder of the family. I wish I could be there to over see the estate but I am called to a mission of dire importance. It saddens me that I have been called away to such deeds knowing father has not returned. Have you received any word of his whereabouts? I am seriously contemplating breaking off from my quest to go look for father. Last I heard he was taking a patrol into the Abbor-Alz. I am just north of his last known position investigating the Ruins of Maure Castle. At the moment my party is at rest in Selteran. We will be returning to the castle ruins by next morning.

I was in Rel Mord for a few months and enjoyed my visit with Yosephus; he has gone on a small expedition to the North in the Rakers and I have hopes to hear from him soon. I have written to Deanna but she can be as stubborn as a mule.

In our adventures in Maure castle we have made Selteran a place to break from our adventures. This will be the best place to send correspondence if you wish to respond. The Church of Heironeous is very adaptable for messenger and the Temple of Pelor has access to carrier pigeons, either way would be good. We have become one of the local fixtures here mostly any one knows who I am. Hope to hear from you soon.

With loving kindness,
Maccabee

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #46 continued

Sister Deanna Daystar
Temple of the Rising Sun
Woodwych, Duchy of Woodwych, Nyrond

Dear Deanna,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I apologize for my long delayed correspondence. It has been a long time since we both have spoken. I know you do not approve of my adventures especially the ways of the sword. I find it difficult in a world with such injustice that your lifestyle for peace seems either too idealistic or sheer lunacy. We have not seen eye to eye for some time. But I just want to make all accounts known. I have been on a quest for some time as I am sure you have heard from our brother Yosephus.

I am currently North West of you, writing from an Inn in Selteran. I am in search of an ancient artifact known as the Destiny Stone which although may sound overly ambitious is to help save the world as we know it. I am not sure if Yosephus had given you any details, but he has taken it upon himself to go to the Rakers to help foil the pending army of the ancient race of Faranths. I know your duties there in Woodwych is important especially to ensure the continuing peaceful relations between the elves of the Celedon Forest and the Duchy of Woodwych. I had hoped in these times we may put away our differences, and perhaps put aside childhood resentment. You refuse to admit how you begrudge our father remarrying and the fact he had a new son, Yosephus. Yosephus, to this day has idolized you and worships the ground you walk on. All you have done in return is dismiss his warmth with a cold and indifferent embrace. Our father still remains missing and with your scrying abilities as well as influence I would have thought by now you would have taken up the search.

My next letter I will be writing will be to our mother, and yes although I do not remember my natural mother I will be addressing her “mother”, still. She has been a perfect replacement, one in which I have easily grown to love and respect. Something you have forgotten it happens to be the doctrines of your faith. Come to your senses Priestess of Pelor search your heart and do the right thing.

Affectionately,
Maccabee

Tabbish Worthen
Chief Steward of the Manor House Of Yosephus Daystar
Rel Mord, Nyrond

Dear Sir I thank you for your letter, I must confess I have my concerns of the fate of my brother. Fortunately Padril the masked Elf Scout you had once met in our visit to the house will be attempting to make his way to the Rakers to assist my brother to curb the plans of the Faranth. Ensure to apprise the elders of the Church of past letters to see that they may be passed on, so my brother can be kept apprised of our progress in acquiring the Destiny Stone. It is of utmost importance that any encounter with the Faranth’s to be faced with extreme caution. Fortunately Padril is well acquainted with there tactics and will be a mighty deterrent to their villainy. Padril has also specific instructions to contact me on the progression of his scouting and the whereabouts of my brother. The Faranth’s will have more than likely enslave the local citizenry to continue in their evil plans to over come all of Oerth. Insure that the Church elders are aware of the necessity of protection from evil with permanency on their person so they too will not be enslaved by the mind bending abilities of the Faranth’s.
God speed and hope to receive a good report from you.

Maccabee, Shining Blade of Heironeous
Church of Heironeous, Selteran

Through the eyes of a Paladin #45

Dear Yosephus, 25 Readying
I am writing you from Selteran. We have managed to enter into the depths of the Maure Castle’s ruins. I have only to realize the magnitude of the Seekers strength and number. It had appeared that the outpost had led into a tunnel that apparently was created by some powerful magic’s. The mage Thal’ Tallis especially was concerned explaining the use of a disintegration spell had been used so numerously. In light of this we seemed to have stumbled upon two very buffed up Orcs who apparently insisted of being in our way. Thanks to every ones efforts they were dispatched in short order. There was a door that was inoperable by our skills so with Mira Luna in hand we dimension door to the other side, her skills in magic has gained my respect over time. Eventually she was able to bring the others to this side of the door with the same spell. The place we had entered was huge. It didn’t appear anything like any dungeon I have been in, it was more like the open area of a castle yet we were a good fifty feet under ground.

Something interesting happened to me while exploring this large underground area, I felt this sudden feeling of divine strength, I don’t know how else to explain it but it felt like a ”knowing”. A knowing of what may be wrong or right. This place has me captive on many levels. I hope in exploration I will be able to further to explain. After combating an assortment of mysterious creatures. Our party had a set back with Padril dieing in our midst from the gaze of a few Bodacks. We were able to dispatch them, with the help of my turning skills and the mages magic’s. Oddly, Andrew had coward away, I have not seen him this frightened since Ravenloft. It was truly unbecoming since he bares the symbol of Heironeous. I have come accustomed to seeing death even if it is of my own party. The group as a whole minus Savaun wanted to leave immediately. My new founded instincts new of a room that would have been fitting for rest even though it was yet to be explored. That is when Savaun and me examined it and turned out that my instincts were correct. We had managed to find the journal of the old seeker and his body. Upon its return to the seeker Sir Derfun he happily awarded us with some Platinum.

There was this other new oddity Yosephus, there was a great hall with a throne in it. It felt as if it had beckoned me, the familiarity of this place is haunting as if I had once lived here long ago. Strange I know but that is not all that was strange. When waiting for Mira Luna and Andrew to return to Selteran from Grey Hawk City with the risen Padril there was an immediate ill wind in the air. I didn’t want to mention it since in a few weeks we were planning our return to the castle ruins. I have managed to acquire a pair of boots of striding and springing and hopes it will be in my favor to have. Well my brother, take care and God speed.

Your older brother
Maccabee

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #44

Dear Yosephus,
Our stay at Selteran is coming to a close. We have been pre-training in case we are too far from civilization. As for our stay here it has not been without new acquaintances. A fellow has approached me from some group known as the Seekers. Apparently this is some form of noble order that seeks out information of far away places and keeps journals of them perhaps you have heard of them while serving in the kings court. Apparently one of their own has gone missing for some time in the place we are soon to visit, the Maure castle. The task is pretty simple just retrieve whatever journals there are of their comrade; hopefully it will help to reduce our time at the ruins of Maure castle. I have been briefed by the Seeker Derfun of the whereabouts of the missing seekers outpost and will begin our trek from there.
Interesting enough, our quest to visit Maure Castle has given us an alliance with a fellow from the noble family of Black Hawk his name is Savaun. Apparently Savaun believes there is something there that would return him to his families former glory. We’ll see. I sense a great deal of change in the air. Our group has increased to seven now including myself. You and the family are in my prayers. I will send word through the church of Heironeous so you know I am in good fellowship. God speed.
Your Brother
Maccabee

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #43

Yosephus,
It is becoming apparent that our quest is taking us to more far away places, yet coincidently to places we have seen in the passing. I must insure to tell the local church of Heironeous in Seltaren of our movements and to continue to be vigilant of the events going on in the Rakers. It was an interesting expedition in a dungeon made of steel. I was glad that the metallic men that we scavenged were used for the good of the local Gnome enclave.

I enjoyed watching how the group worked together and beginning to be more at ease of being the party’s meat shield. Thanks to all that is good for my ability to use my shield in ways I would have never known. I am more capable of protecting my party members and myself. Now if I can openly further my ability of protecting myself I could be the cork that stops the flow of evil while the remaining party members lay a barrage of metal and spells upon an on coming onslaught. This strategy in the close quarters of a dungeon would be very effective although in an open field not so expedient.

I have further my cause to vow for the protection of Mira Luna since she and I are the only two remaining of the original group of adventurers. When she had fallen from a Metallic man weapon I saw to it that she was cared for while I took the battle to the creature. We are currently preparing to venture forth in the ruins of Maure Castle. I hope this will bring us to the Destiny Stone that we have been in search for in over a year. Tell mom of my state of being as well as sis and hope to hear of our fathers return soon. May the Fist of Heironeous bring you close to his greater glory and may our paths meet soon. Your Brother,
Maccabee

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #42

OK so I slept through the attack of the hill Giants, but it was good to get a good nights rest. As for the two new guys I am still trying to adapt to their accompaniment. They seemed to be holding their own as for the mage he was quite good with those force spells he has been using, as for the guy with the bow and hammer has been moderately faithful. Having to travel without Neon was a bit inconvenient then as for that huge giant of a golem grabbing me as a rag doll didn’t do much for my armors shine. I took a bit of damage from that thing and was glad we were able to eradicate ourselves from its huge grasp.

If it wasn’t one thing it was something else, then those two mobile magical wands hitting me at every turn, I was beginning to believe I was now the groups walking pin cushion. As if I couldn’t sustain enough damage for one day we ran into a bunch of iron golems with magical wands. I have expended most of my healing for one day and my sword arm is getting tired. It would figure perhaps the most important part of our quest is becoming the most painful of them all and its only mid day. Well I just need to shake it off and hope for a better encounter perhaps not from some nuisance of a creature but perhaps even a potential ally. Well like grandpa Pharez use to say, “when there is life, there is hope”!

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #41

Standing in the courtyard of the Temple I thought I would try my hand at refocusing my ability to turn the undead to my shield. After previous weeks and months of doing so I feel confident in do time that I will be more than capable of performing such a feet. The positive surge of my faith seems to make an illuminating aura around my shield. Well it is a good thing, Ulainn has left us and having just four of us adventuring for the Destiny Stone will be hazardous that much more. It was nice to give my last farewells to Sir Clubber, although when he gave me a hug he nearly broke my back. I was saddened to see him there waving his good byes to me. It was almost as if it would be the last time. That same somber face was on my brother Yosephus as well; in truth I didn’t feel as if it was my last time, as a matter of fact I was beginning to feel, as the Destiny Stone was merely a new beginning not an ending.

Looking over the busy streets of Rel Mord it was good to be preparing to get back on the open road and having to ride upon the back of Neon with the Reaver at my side. I even took it upon myself to enjoy some conversation with Mira Luna. Being through so much together we managed to stay alive for the most part since the beginning of the quest. I bet that old man the seer is having a gay old time in the cold north, knowing that we still plug on for the Destiny Stone. I made it a point to inform the elders of the Temple of our next move as well inform them of the Faranths in the north in the Rakers. Protection spells, namely protection from evil is one of the greatest defenses against the Faranths, so that they don’t over rule your mind. Needless to say observing the group, Mira Luna had become a most impressive spell caster. The fact that she can teleport us at will was impressive indeed.

The spirit of the party was rather jovial even while addressing the towns folks in the coming days following after the bread crumbs that Brandon had left made for some real interesting times. The bar room skirmish we had definitely allowed for there to be more to tell about our scout Padril, seeing the hatred in his eyes it was apparent that these foes were not going to go to far without hunting us down. I didn’t like the fact we had to pull a fast one against the town militia, but it was obvious we had already over welcomed our stay. Truthfully though I never had traveled so far in such a short period of time. Mira Luna was obviously trying to get the bugs out of her spell casting. I just wish we could have stayed a little bit longer in each place to absorb the greater out doors, the sites and scenes of the landscape was truly picturesque. Giving me a chance to forget the reason why we were out here.

On Mira Lunas final try we teleported right smack dab in the middle of a Goblin encampment. Fortune had favored us and we all suffered no injury in the fray. Upon further examination we began to follow the trail that Brandon had left us, in doing so would lead us into the Abbor-Allz, our final destination in finding the Destiny Stone and perhaps even my missing father. The words came to mind that for every ending there is a new beginning.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #40

By my own request, I felt the next encounter inside the sphere would be a deadly one. Plus knowing Ulainn’s ego was getting too big for the party members an extra fighter would be helpful for the safety of the party. I must admit I would have never expected to have a Mountain Troll as a worshiper of Heironeous at my side. Sir Clubber was truly an oddity. By his size and girth he was beyond doubt a formidable ally or foe. I was greatly fascinated by his desire to serve and his eyes were filled with the sincerity of a simple child. I have had some strange friends in my lifetime but this was by far the strangest.

By the gathering of the high Priests we were quickly teleported into the sphere. I had hoped to enter the sphere with stealth but by Sir Clubbers loud and boisterous voice the creatures from with in was alerted to our trespass. Moments went on for hours it seems. Entering into the side way and hoping to flank the large dragon type creatures Clubber was already mowing down the opposition. Andrew and I were able to finish off the creature called Synder. As the battle raged The Farlanth dragons began to emerge, it was apparent Tobias was the main character who orchestrated the entire situation. Regrettably Sir Clubber was affected by the dazzling sounds of the Farlanth and was about to turn against his party members. Padril and me quickly applied a circle of protection against evil around us knowing its negative affects upon those who would be affected by mind-altering spells. Sir Clubber returned to his senses. I was able to enlarge myself as well and moved in to strike the nearby white Farlanth. I stuck a devastating blow causing the Farlanth to think twice of attacking through the main door. Slowly one by one the Farlanths fell.

Perhaps the most humiliating aspect of the battle was being the center point in a tug of war between Clubber and the Farlanths. O the indignity! The last Farlanth had felled me but thanks to Padril’s quick action in dimensioning door my body out of harms way I was soon back into the fight. Sir Clubber obliterated the Egg; Tobias meeting his timely death the threat to all of Greyhawk had ended at least for the moment. Sad to say in hopes to ensure the safety of the sphere Andrew and Padril had activated a most deadly trap. It truly grieved me to see my fellows split in half but encouraged to the fact that our return to Rel Mord may give us a reward for their lives be returned to good as new.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #39

I seem to be finding my self in the same predicament over and over again. I am beginning to feel as if I am knocking my head against a wall and hoping to discover a different outcome. Doesn’t that constitute insanity? The giant was difficult in and of itself. Padril’s timely intervention with the tangle foot bag made the giant less difficult to eliminate. Then of course facing off with the hydra was gratefully assisted by Ulainn’s ability to turn me to a Troll. But when we had to fight the dragon disciples it would have been nice to receive the same assistance. Needless to say I came to an untimely death. I had asked Ulainn for the same assist but was responded with “get your own wizard”, this statement made me rethink the alliance with in our long standing group I suppose the next time Ulainn bellows out orders I should respond in turn get your own Paladin. It is said as it is written, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.“

These visits into the after life have become rather bothersome, but I was happy to see the face of the High Priest of the temple of Heironeous back in Rel Mord. My brother on the other hand was a bit upset of my untimely death. It appears his long time friend Barnabus was also interested in our travels and for good reason; he was a Vassal of Bahamut and apparently will be on the hunt for that one departing dragon disciple. It appears the entire realm is interested in our quest now. So after a short time to improve on our provisions we are hastily departing, I was fortunate to find a few magic items in trade and will be using them with wisdom upon any other strange encounters in the sphere.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #38

Whoever said “what ever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” aught to be hung until made dead. Sending those disciples of Tiamat back to the nine hells was the highlight of our day with little to no effort on my part to see to their destruction. Drawing their attention was a perfect move yet I underestimated Mira Luna’s and Ulainn’s ability to strike at such a long distance. After the fireballs and lightning bolts were caste the enemy was fallen.

What was rather suspicious was the new fellow Tobias, whom took it upon himself to pass as potential ally. Personally the fellow gave me the creeps and it wasn’t before long my intuition was proven right once again. The popping up of our old foes motivated me immediately to go to a gallop but the over sized Stone giant had the jump on me and I was seeing stars once again from this evil creatures axe. Not certain how much time that lapsed but was grateful to see Neon survive the giants attack. Awakening, the tide had turned only to prove me right once more Tobias was the instigator of such a brutal attack. Hoping to face off with him once and for all he seemed to disappear as Padril has done and was seen no more.

Upon the next day seeing that my skills were far from excellent my faith in them seemed to diminish at every turn. How was it I was able to bring on so much destruction upon the man sized Trolls but on these encounters my skills other than healing were zero to none? Beginning to believe I am out matched out smarted and simply having a bad Paladin day. It seems I simply have to wait on my magic-wielding friends to face any future encounters. I must wait and see, on any account, I am not going at the quick to face my next foe. Right now its all about having a break through of some kind to turn things around, and frankly I don’t see it happening in this dismal place that is filled with carnage. I am already feeling the effects of such things, catching myself looking thousands of miles away in the endless void of nothingness.

Perhaps I should not be so hard on anyone since I too have made my share of mistakes but I wouldn't be thinking this at all if it were not for that trip we took into Strahds domain. I have never been quite the same since.

You can say that again!

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #37

End of Harvester 592 CY

Maccabee knocks on his brother’s door in Rel Mord, when a servant opens it up with obvious recognition the name Maccabee is heard to echo throughout the Manor House as news of his return spreads among the staff and retainers. Yosephus and Maccabee share a warm brotherly embrace followed by introductions all around as the group of adventures—his companions—enter behind him. After a few short hours all are shown to rooms suited to them while Maccabee and Yosephus spend time in front of the fireplace in the den talking well into the night about adventures past.

Maccabee: Yosephus, it has been a long time since I have heard from Mom and our sister. What has been going on?

Yosephus: Well, Mom still keeps busy at the manor house, still occupying herself growing grapes and making wine. There has been no sign of Dad yet; it’s been nearly a year since your leaving on such short notice gave us all a stir. I would have thought you had headed into the Mountains in hopes to find Dad; instead you were at the far north?

Maccabee: Well, it was the strangest thing; I felt this longing to head north. It was as if I was taken away in a whirlwind. Before I knew it my quest called for my return back here. Yosephus, what about Deanna?

Yosephus: You would not believe how great she is doing. She became a priestess of Pelor in the short time you were gone and now is an apothecary in Woodwitch. She is settled in with a friend and they both seem to be doing great healing the locals. Apparently she has been working close with the Wood Elves trying to help reduce the tension in that region. Maccabee, you’ve got to tell me how and what you have done since you left a year ago.

Maccabee: Well, it began like this I was heading on the northern road out of Rel Mord...

As the sun was coming up the two had an early breakfast and retired for the remainder of the day only to continue with the story the later that day.

2 Ready’reat 592 CY to 22 Sunsebb

I spent the remainder of my time in Rel Mord tracking down reliable sources in having specific items made. Having a magical helmet with protection from evil on it seemed to be a good idea; that and a necklace of fireballs just in case. I made it a point to speak with the local clergy of Heironeous to sponsor three families in need paid for with a good portion of the treasure I had acquired; a tithe to help paladins like me stay humble and not set our hearts too much on worldly wealth. Writing letters to my sister and mother letting them know I was ok. Most of my time I spent on patrols gathering up the sites and sounds of the city forgetting about the troubling times that we were in. When Andrew disappeared in the book it was a nice distraction although odd for the circumstance. It wasn’t until I received a sending from Brandon that the reality of the coming destruction with the Faranths brought all things to perspective.

Maccabee: Yosephus, can I speak with you for a moment?

Yosephus: Sure Maccabbee. What’s the matter? It sounds serious.

Maccabee: Well, remember what I told you of the north and the story of the Destiny Stone. Well, I have to leave to further that cause. I just received a sending from Brandon and must head west to meet up with him.

Yosephus: OK?

Maccabee: Well, little brother, I don’t think I am going to survive this adventure.

Yosephus: How can you say that? No man knows his own Destiny!

Maccabee: That may be so, but ever since I have joined in the quest for the Destiny Stone it has changed me in ways I would have never dreamed of. Even in the areas of my faith.

Yosephus: How so?

Maccabee: Well, take for instance this Icon I carry with me. It bares the symbols of all the deities of good including Heironeous. As if all that in which is good is in harmony with one another instead of at odds. I learned of the ancient ones, gods who were no more than common men filled with weakness and frailty who man in their weakness worshiped only to give them strength in their dogmas.

Yosephus: So are you trying to say you are no longer a worshiper of Heironeous?

Maccabee: No brother (with a smile). I am just beginning to be aware that there is much, much more to the universe and that our walk in seeking the truth should not be limited to man’s dogmas.

Yosephus: Well, that’s good to know. You had me worried there for a moment. Look Maccabee, I have seen much change in you and I do believe you will see the quest all the way through. But if, and I do mean if, anything goes bad for you, I will stand in your stead. Besides you never told me if you met any woman of promise yet.

Maccabee: You always were a romantic. The answer to that question is no. Since
I have to go west and our final destination is to the south I will see if I can visit with Deanna and Mom. The call to leave is drawing hard upon my soul and hearing what Padril and Andrew have just reported we will leave at early light.

Yosephus: You make this out to be the end of the world.

Maccabee: You don’t realize how close you are to the truth (sigh).

Yosephus: You’re so dramatic.

Maccabee: Good night, little brother.

(With a final warm embrace, both brothers retire to their respective rooms.)

I awoke before sunrise with my early prayers and the only thing I could think of was, “Help me! Help me! Help Me!” At first light in a still sleepy house the adventurers departed.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #36

The entry into the candy cottage was going to be faced with more resistance than previous encounters. Seeing Andrew having to unlock the door was the first obvious obstruction, but when the witch charmed Andrew, the battle seemed to go on for hours. In many ways it did. I failed the attempt to help Padril in his face off with Andrew, hoping to aid him from being hit by his deadly Kukri. Mira Luna successfully dispelled the charm on Andrew. Andrew was back to himself and I was able to use the Icon to heal most of Padril’s damage. Soon after this the Trolls stormed in as the Imp continued its attack on the party. Ulainn seemed to get ahead of the bulk of the group; he made it his business to confront the witch head on with her Imp closely protecting her. At which point I called upon the name of Heironeous and my blade cracked with electricity. Drawing the attacks of the Trolls I gave Andrew, Ulainn and Padril an opportunity to get through the hallway full of Trolls. With some minor success Andrew was able to cause great harm on the trolls and Ulainn took on the witch. Casting spells over our heads the witch and Ulainn as well as the Imp duke it out. Padril was able to send forth a stinging strike with his bow but Mira Luna was regrettably grabbed and held by a charging Troll. I had to hold my ground and was unable to help Mira Luna. Gradually the trolls were whittling down when suddenly we all were immersed in a web. Fortunately I had the one minor lesser fireball on my necklace and was able to destroy the webs and some of the remaining trolls. The party as well as myself took no damage since I had prepared myself of the possibility of this with a resist fire spell. At that point I saw standing behind me was the witch. She casted some spell at me and could feel the protection from evil surrounding me fizzle the evil witches powers. She looked at me in fear and with in the next moment I called upon the power of righteousness and smite the warty witch into oblivion. The witch was dead.

Many people suffer from witches in life, and many times they are children when a witch strikes. On this day it was good to kill the witch once and for all.

Some of the best points of the game were the ability to roll play as children. We had fortunately found our way quickly to the cottage. Learning of all of the other potential obstacles this fantasy world made it that much more intreaging to play in. The situations were not impossible, but would be without the teamwork of fellow players. That was the most enjoyable part of this game session for everyone to work together in a humorous scenario. O and one more thing, this was real good therapy.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #35

It was apparent after killing the demon boy and the remaining trolls we were inevitably were going to pursue the upper level of the cottage leaving the tower for later. What stuck me though was the situation we were being drawn into. It occurred to me that children especially in an unhealthy childhood have no control over their circumstances. Neither empowered with the tools to deal with whatever was wrong or injustice done to them at the time.
Reviewing some of the circumstances in our childhoods seems to have an everlasting scar as we grow up in the adult world. How is it that whether it is good or evil done to us as children we still have the opportunity to turn the other cheek or continue in the wickedness that has been unjustly placed upon us during a time of our innocence? Call it fate then that evil either on this day or the next will inevitably receive its just reward. For as long as there are Paladins in the world we all may have a chance to overcome the odds. Yet few are willing to take to the sword or conviction of righteousness for righteousness sake. So much one must consider for when there is Law there is a need for judgment, and justice to be handed out must be with the added gift of mercy and grace without these two gifts justice would simply be vengeance and yet vengeance is unhappily served under extreme circumstances.
For the sake of all those children who have fallen before us, let the power of my sword and its retribution pour out unto this horrid place and let it be an example of righteous justice forever more, amen.
It was becoming apparent that Ulainn possessed those evil trolls with the magic of the stone I was wearing. I must admit it was much to our advantage that this was working but I was unsure of the ethical implications of his magic’s. Needless to say disposing creatures in the upper rooms became more difficult than I thought but with much perseverance we over came our attackers. It was a relief to find a fellow youthful adventurer in the dungeon of this place but regrettably short lived that he died on our failed attempts to climb up the stairs to the suspected witches quarters. It seemed our attempts and failures were not for naught. We were able to discover her and the number of some of her servants as well as the strength of her magic’s. Ulainn’s suicidal attack on the witch gave us the chance to leave this place with whatever strength we had to muster. Allowing us all to heal up and pass the night without disruption. Thank you Heironeous

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #34

It was encouraging to get a good night sleep and spend some peaceful time in prayers this morning. Who could have known there was a small encampment of trolls underneath the small pocket plane of Ulainn’s. I was hoping not to have to resort to using my necklace of fire balls, but at the vantage point of being over twenty feet off the ground made for a very enjoyable time watching the green evil boogers fry, thanks to Mira Luna’s assistance with her fireball. I felt pretty confident in Andrew’s and Padril’s abilities of avoiding the flames of the fireballs. For one minor mishap it was a successful battle. Fortunately the remaining beads were minimal.

Making our way to the cottage it was not unsuspecting to see the pudding animate. I should have asked Mira Luna to send a small volley of magic missiles ahead just in case. Regrettably Andrew got hurt. Fortunately what healing I had left dispensed in his recovery. This was one time the battle was entirely up to the mages. Needless to say, entering into the front door there was quite a reception of man size Trolls, compared to our own size they were large and carrying quite an appetite to eat us. What was strange was this gem that Ulainn had given me earlier in the day in which I hung around my neck. It began to glimmer. Ulainn did not tell me its use other than it was to support in his magic; confidently I acquiesced to his request. I must confess while the gem began to illuminate its bright light I couldn’t help feel a bit ill at ease. I advanced into battle and I called upon the strength of Heironeous to empower my blade with the gift of my deity. The electrical current had left through my body into the blade, which at this time was the Raven. I could feel the delight of the empathic blade as it cut through the vile creatures. What surprised me was a Troll addressing itself as Ulainn just behind the leading Trolls. I was a bit puzzled and no sooner than that happened it participated in attacking the other creatures, which soon were dismembered and torched to nothingness.

Eventually the Raven was cleared of its electrical charge thanks are to Heironeous and as moments pased the Troll, now Ulainn moved into the inner parts of the cottage. He seemed to be scouting ahead. Finally he poked his head out warning us of a Golem coming. My broach of Golem Bane began to light up, knowing its ability to help make short work of these magic made creatures. The coming golem though was truly a disgusting combination of creatures, which in and of itself was a horrid perversion of nature. There was an overwhelming disgust of the monster and couldn’t make short enough work out of it. Finished with the thrawls of battle we entered further inside of the cottage, only to discover Ulainn; the troll was steeped in battle. Slowly advancing Andrew passed ahead of me unfortunately drawing an attack from a huge Troll. Mira Luna and Padril made a way to tactically strike the horrid creature hitting it with an arrow and followed by a fireball from Mira Luna. It was at this point the gem around my neck began to brighten and the feeling of some evil passing from this plane into the next brought shivers down my spine and deep within my soul. I have seen much magic in my time but this was like the spirit of death passing over my grave. Holding my ground I called upon Heironeous to blazen my blade with electrical power and a demonic giant had joined the volley. I had struck the creature with such might the creature was momentarily stunned and broke out into tears like an oversized baby. It began to flee from the seen but to ensure this evil go no further, I quickly pursued it sending it into oblivion. Now what was more puzzling was Ulainn, he was no longer the man size Troll but a huge Troll that at one time had hit Andrew, had he not announced again who he was I would have gladly struck the evil creature down with the Raven. It appeared the Raven had used up all its abilities with blessing the party in battle, I exchanged back to the Reaver from Padril, after more healing to the party and the use of one of my antitoxins on Andrew we began to ascend the stairs to the upper floors of the cottage.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #33

I am pleased to see our selves leave this gazebo behind. Moving on down the road Padril ended up scouting out a Nymph bathing herself in a nearby stream.

What came next was a bit over the top. Standing there over sized and a bit overwhelming was a gargantuan scorpion. I thought for sure I was a goner. Truthfully I was uncertain how I managed to survive. I broke out a neutralize poison scroll and spent it on Andrew. It was a good thing. The poison of that Scorpion seemed a bit life taking and I didn’t want to take any chances. It appeared my blindness shield didn’t have much affect on the creature while standing my ground. It was fortunate we had Mira Luna and Ulainn; lightning bolts whittled the threat of the huge creature down.

As we continued on we ended following an off road path that lead to an ambush by some Trolls. I was a bit frustrated trying to bring down the evil creature sustaining minimal damage with my diminutive size. Fortunately the trolls were small themselves which made the battle almost equal. Once we terminated two of their kind they all fled giving Padril a chance to track down these creatures. After several hours through the thick wood we ended back upon the path in which we originally were traveling on. This time leading us to a cottage which, like in the storybook was where the witch would live. Taking our time we took a break and rested for the night.

The following day we returned to the cottage discovering a few obstacles I was trying to convince Padril to enter from the side wall where there appeared to be no apparent obstacles besides a wall of chocolate. He didn’t take any of my advice. Regretfully he ended up in the vines of a large rose bush, much to all our amazement he turned into a small wolf. Managing to get out of the vines he remained a wolf for the remainder of the day. Detecting no apparent evil on Padril we were able to work ourselves to the area of easy access. I was able to detect evil from a group of active beehives and requested for a fireball upon these unnaturally evil bees. What should have been an easy kill, turned out to be more difficult than expected. I found Mira Luna and myself in the midst of the swarm. I couldn’t allow Mira Luna or the remainder of the party to suffer any more great injury. I then took it upon myself to head into the midst of the hives in hopes of drawing their attention. To my regret my idea was nullified as the swarm began to move through other adventurers. At that point I pulled out one of the fireball beads off my new necklace and tossed it upon the swarm. The act worked, the entire swarm was upon me giving Mira Luna and Ulainn a chance to strike the swarm with more magic. This time with lightning bolts. In time the swarm was neutralized only to discover it was an infernal swarm of bees. I am just going to spend some time in Rel Mord and learn more about the planes.

Since the day’s events pretty much drained most of the party’s magic we left the area back to the crossroads and passed the day into the night inside Ulainn’s rope trick. We bedded down and got a good nights rest.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #32

I do not like keeping secrets from my friends and allies. Have we not learned our lessons from the events with the kobolds? It was a bad decision to allow them into that town, even though our intent may have been noble, but now we have a Werewolf in our midst. Being urged by the group just makes we want to scream out one more time. Certainly the temple priests would be lenient and turn Padril back to his self-loathing self. Yet Ulainn promising he will remove this curse upon the next full moon doesn’t make this situation any less intolerable. We break bread in my brother’s house making him unawares of the pending danger. He goes about tending to court business unaware, which adds to the insult, the indignity. At which point are the bonds of loyalty broken between friends when a Paladin’s virtue is on the line? It turns my stomach each passing day as the weight of the situation increases upon the next full moon. Looking at Padril actually entertaining the concept of being a Werewolf adds insult to injury, one could suspect that the curse affects his mind as well as his character, yet he always was a bit dark and standoffish. Going against the grain though, we wait till the next full moon.

Traveling from the temple I couldn’t help noticing a young woman looking at the pedestrians as if they were some kind of mark. Recognizing her I slowly made my way through the crowd. It was Athena and I couldn’t help enjoy the moment when I touched her on her shoulder making her aware she was spotted. Certain she was up to mischief I used a better part of mercy and invited her to the Manor house. There the party brought her up to speed on the past months events. While sitting down at the dinner table we were informed of our missing companion Andrew and at once I went to investigate.

For some reason knowing that Andrew is in some kind of pickle was a relief and yet expected. He has this uncanny tendency of getting himself in trouble. I had thought he had given over that book to some young passerby but leave it to Andrew to hold on to the Tome of Tales. My brother looking on to see if it was evil just proved to me he still was young and naive. I had wished he had taken on the trail as I did for adventure but he settled with the melancholy of court duties. But I must confess he has done well for himself with this wonderful manor house in which we have been presiding in for two months and his servants were more than capable in holding there own. But seeing the Tome of Tales left open and the room with all of Andrew’s belongings and the toppled over chair it didn’t take long to figure out where Andrew had gone. The Tome obviously is not a book that is forthcoming which in and of itself should have been burnt to nothingness. The group together and aware of the situation we allowed the book to read the story. My brother Yosephus thought us daft just adding to the realization of his naivety. He left the room.

As expected the room became the story in the book and before we new it we were in the story in and of itself. Although what I didn’t expect was becoming the children we once were many years ago. Although our senses were that of our present maturity, one couldn’t help to digress to an infantile mentality and in a sense it seemed almost fitting in light of our situation. There in the midst of the wood was Andrew draped in his sleep ware. He was more than elated of our presence but his recollection of time was different than our own. He was only gone for hours but to him it had been a week. Fortunately for him we have come along when we did. Between our diminutive voices and size made the travel that much more difficult. Our strides in our walk was reduced in half do to our size and what ever we would force out in strength was less in comparison. It was an uncomfortable situation seeing a wood nymph take an interest in me, fortunately she was persuaded to allow for our leave. When six dire wolves attacked us we were hard pressed. Fortunately we prevailed over them. Ullain’s lightning bolt reduced their number as well as the combine force of the remaining members of the group. Our next challenge was just as difficult.

Andrew and Mira Luna had left the party towards a fragrant small open meadow. While the remaining members of the group were trying to dispatch some Quick lings, I tried to stop Mira Luna but to no avail like them I fell to the smells of the flowers and was put asleep. Fortunately after being awakened by the group I was able to once again pick up Mira Luna and lift her out of the aromatic blossoms. Fortunately in the midst of the blossoms was a belt of giant strength and was immediately given the go ahead to ware it in place of my gauntlets of ogre power. It appears an unseen servant of Jimmy came in handy to avoid any more affects from the blossoms.

Once again down the trail we found a gazebo of many mirrors, hoping they would make for a way out instead brought about a sticky situation. I found myself fighting with myself in a pair. I found this interesting that in and of it I find myself as my own worst enemy. I didn’t realize till fighting my doubles what a formidable adversary I was. Even as the fireball engulfed the area I was pleased with myself, though it was my opposite. I took care not to share this revelation and healed my fellows . The day continues and frankly once again I feel as if we aught to rest. There is neither night nor day here but the travels have been exhausting.

We set forth for new adventures...

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #31

I kneel in this place of sanctuary, considered as hallowed ground, reflecting on the losses as well as gains in this quest. Lying before me are the once king and queen of Ravenloft sleeping in their eternal slumber. In this place only a Paladin is welcomed, my friends call for my return yet I kneel quietly in this large moratorium. Sweat leaves my brow followed by some tears. There is a peace here beyond human understanding and in that moment I was able to look back in a time where these hallowed halls were filled with noble knights and righteousness. A time for reflection and a time for peace.

Ascending up the stairs removing ourselves from the catacombs we are met by the once turned spectre of Girt. With a strike by the Sun Sword and several magical attacks the spectre was no more. Getting through the top in the small entry way I had made earlier with my morning star we were greeted by a hefty armored man bearing the symbols of Pelor. It was a short exchange of words that we were able to retreat to the Chapel of Ravenloft. There we exchanged more words only to learn that it was by his fellow servants of the high priesthood and the spirit of Sherriff that had called Fallon, the priest to this dismal place.

Passing the time we stood at the ready, by the fluttering of passing bats it was a forgone conclusion that Strahd was well aware of our location. As time passed the Sun Sword began to glow erratically, the dead were on the march; the double doors slammed open. The large company was quickly met by Ulainn’s fireball incinerating them before there number could enter into the chapel. Followed by a couple of rust monsters, which by the better part of valor I was able to withdraw keeping my distance from them. Soon followed a fire ball from the long corridor in which either Strahd or his wizard ally sent. Most of us took the damage from the fireball but Padril got it the worst stepping to death’s door. Fortunately Fallon was able to get him healed up before another fireball came, killing one of the rust monsters as well. Damage was minimal for the party, followed a large horde of worgs making their way directly to Fallon the one true cleric capable of killing Strahd.

Ulainn was able to turn me invisible as the worgs continued there fray upon the helpless cleric as his armor was destroyed by the previous rust monster. Ulainn added to the attack as he sent a lightning bolt through the worgs. In the mean time Strahd made his appearance in the room giving me the chance to strike him down and with one attempt to strike down his villainy he turned into gaseous form and was no more. The remaining worgs followed in his stead and the decision was finally made to return back into the catacombs for one final strike.

One crypt after another we searched for Strahd hindered by some unusual force at one entry way down into the depths of the castle. It was at this entry way I later found myself grateful for the end of the siege upon Ravenloft. Strahd appeared once again, this time by a simple turn of the cleric he was totally sent to the nine hells never to reform again. Making our way through one of the crypts we found a way into the final resting place of Strahd. This time he was gone and all that he was had become a bad memory. Once destroying the remaining undead the castle was cleared I took great lengths in seeing to the return of Gertruda and the release of the enslaved accountant. I spent an hour at the feet of the sarcophagus of the king and queen, I could have spent a day, but by the urgency of the group we left Ravenloft and all of Barovia once and forever.

Through the eyes of a Paladin #30

Its dark and I can't see a thing. The last thing I remember was walking through the catacombs searching for the remaining Vampire and Strahd. This smell in this place reaks of death and I don't feel my weapons or armor on my person, as a matter of fact these clothes are definately not my clothes, eew! Flashing back...

Ok, we were entering into the area where we last saw Cyrus from there we saw a halfling. Apparently a haphazard adventurer who needed some assistance. Killian? Hope his abilities compensate for his size. Good old Cyrus never thought I have the pleasure of meeting him again. What is that stuff or thing that he is cooking, whatever it is it is still alive. Well what do you know its an undead, lets make its condition permanent.

Hmmm, well its a far gone conclusion that Cyrus is well off his rocker and is no help in finding Strahd's library. My gut feeling is that there is a secret passage at the end of the hall where the wine cellar is. BINGO! I can always rely on my friends Padril and Andrew.

I'll make short work of this wall...BANG, BANG, BANG!!! Well it appears it is the passage way that was blocked off from above. Something about this secret must be the main entry way to the bottom. Well, why am I not suprised, two of Strahd's tarts and a third spook.

Good going Autumn Rain on sending the spook to the hells. Ah O, this is bad, this is really bad. I really hate these bats. Well it wasn't what I was expecting but Ulain pulled a fast one on all of us. Good thing for his Web spell, just can't seem to bring light to the life of those vampires at the moment.

Girt appears to be having trouble and if only I can get out of these webs I might be able to give some help to the others. Laying on hands I can feel the divinity of my faith passing through my spirit into Girt's now.

Lets see, Umph! well it was good getting out of those webs. Well hello Lady's. Take that and then scream and return to your crypts where you belong. Well we are not worse for the wear lets check out these crypts.

This is too easy, let see what the Sun Sword does to a vampire while regenerating. Well that was affective. Ah Oh, it appears Strahd knows what just transpired. Heironeous protect me. Padril this would probably be a good time for you to get into this crypt for the moment. Ouch! a fire ball. And O look. another one of Strahd's tarts. Lets make short work on her and then tend to the big ugly.

Nice trying the feeble spell on me again Strahd. Well I am ready with the counter spell. Hmmm it apears Ulain beat me to the punch. Now you will get a piece of sun Strahd. That takes care of him, now for the Nightmare. Back to the nine hells you demon! Well that was almost too easy. Looks like Autumn rain is under the effects of a spell. Autumn, Hey Autumn snap out of it sister! Its me Maccabee!

Well I will just move over here and see what maybe near by in a crypt where the other Vampire tart had returned.

Whats this a Spector? This can't be good. What is with Girt he seems to be a pin cushion for the undead. Thats it, I had enough of this, time to try this new holy symbol. BY ALL THAT IS HOLY AND RIGHTOUS! Back from whence you came. Hey that worked.

Ok, we really need to hasten the search and find that other crypt. Finally another tart meets her death. There must be thirty or forty crypts in this dismal place. Good thing each one has the name of the dead.

SWISH!!! So here I am in this dank and confined place. Heironeous give me strength!!! well that was easy. Well that was weird I'm back and it appears I'm in Padrils clothes and I am fighting with the others, and right at my feet is the Sun Sword how good is that? Swush!!!Back in the Crypt, OK still in the dark, obviously I am in a large crypt. Hmm whats that I hear, Autumn Rain? Padril? Ok I can't seem to find my way around here. Oh! feeling my way around we managed to get the sarcofocus off of Autumn Rain now to join together and open this crypt door.

CRASH!!! OK we are out of here. We must get back with the others.

Girts down and it appears Killian, and Andrew are the only ones in the fight and that Wight is wearing my stuff, I had enough of this. Poor Girt, it is a real offence having to fight with his Spector. Ouch! that hurt. Ok I got the holy sword no time I'll use the holy symbol he was carrying. BY ALL THAT IS HOLY AND RIGHTOUS RETURN BACK FROM WHENCE YOU CAME! Hey! it worked again. No time we need to get rearmed and let me call upon Neon and place Girts remains upon his back. We are out of here...

Friday, October 14, 2005

Meanwhile, somewhere in the bowels of Castle Ravenloft…

Count Strahd Von Zarovich walked along the crypt-filled rows of the ancient catacombs, mind racing with plans to DESTROY this upstart group of young adventurers. The damned paladin had found that cursed sword after all of the years Strahd had spent searching for it so he could destroy it once and for all—Sergei’s blade; the sword of his younger brother that had nearly destroyed him so many years ago.

Steve I love this style of writing much better

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #29

It was a small miracle that we all survived this day. Strahd seemed to have taking a liking to help finish us off. Our first objective was successful in looking behind the veil to an observation room. It was obvious by the glowing of the Sun Sword as well as the detection of evil that there were six undead creatures in the mix of the room. The room was partially filled with water but what could be seen were several torture devices in the midst of this large room. Girt made his attempts to turn these creatures in their slumber but to no avail they became activated by his failed attempt. Battle broke out with these abominations although the rebuke of Girt was wasted the battle passed on with little to no injury to our persons.
We had spent a good hour in this room in hopes to search for a secret passage. In our attempts the mage, Ulainn had found a small deposit of platinum pieces which he added to our cache of treasure. Moving on, heading down a ten-foot-wide corridor it appeared there were two adjoining rooms with a spiral staircase at the end.
Bad luck had fallen to the party as Padril suddenly disappeared right from in front of me. Fear that he may have slid into a trap I immediately placed a steady rope around my waste with Girt holding on increasingly. I stepped forward as well only to find my self in a cell with my companion Padril. The poor chap was on his toes trying to keep his small body above five feet of water. It appeared we were in a sticked wicked but it would not deter me from using my sword to break down these rotting metal bars. Striking with great success apparently the remainder of the party found itself in the nearby hall in which Padril and myself were held in. Regrettably, two of Strahd’s vampire mistresses were attacking us. Sad to say, Ireena was one of the two Vampires. It appears she had survived the fall and was whisked away to turn her. Strahd had succeeded in taking his bride. Battle had ensued, regrettably dominating Girt and myself. It was a most egregious act. Having no compulsion to rebuke, I was forced to take the battle against my cellmate. Fortunately Padril was able to withstand my fury by hiding himself in the water in which he had tried so hard to stay above.
The battle was going bad for Autumn Rain she had already been drained of her vitality. Fortunately Ulainn was able to help break the domination for a moment enough for me to activate my holy symbol. It was a good thing I had seen to it that it had many charges of protection from evil. We hastily broke free of our cage and gradually took the fight to the vampires. Fortune had favored us. Ulainn had found an incredible sword and dropped it before mine and Padril’s feet. Apparently it was a rather intelligent sword and was more than pleased to take the fight to our enemies.
Ulainn was invisible and flying. Padril and I made it to the corridor where the teleportation traps were. Giving chase to the one vampire mistress she turned into vapors and we were besieged by a huge swarm of bats at which point I could hear Ulainn yell out to, “Duck!” So I hastily took to the depths of the three feet of water and felt a sudden burst of energy pass above me. It was apparent that Ulainn sent forth a lightning bolt. The swarm was vaporized into tiny little ashes. Upon arising from the water there before me was the evil temptress. With a swift strike with the Sun Sword she too was turned back into vapor.
Seeing that the party was regaining its momentum, Ireena was the last to take flight. Carrying silver magical swords put fear in our enemies. Padril went to free a person in bondage in one of the cells. Regrettably the man turned out to be a werewolf. Fortunately Padril was able to escape from the clutches of the cursed creature and it too was seen no more.
We made haste for the high towers of the castle, while in flight to higher ground we were besieged upon by two wraiths. Although Autumn Rain had suffered immensely from her level drain, she was able to quickly dispose of the foul undead.
While resting through the day precariously in a large bedroom we faced off with four gargoyles. Girt’s sword and mine dispatched them quickly. The night we rested in the created plane of Ulainn and were able to see to Autumn Rain’s drain. Regretfully she was not able to return to her full status, but was welcomed none the less for her contributions. Perhaps today we will see the final end to Strahd’s tyranny. Heironeous, for all that is holy give us this day a victory.

Through the Eyes of a Paladin #28

Maccabee contemplates his way through the day’s events.

Heironeous, for years I have found myself trying to control my situation in hopes of a greater outcome, thinking that I a lowly Paladin can make such a great difference in this world. Serving a righteous cause as well as a lawfully good path being a pillar of justice in the eyes of my piers, in light of these high ideals my motives I never questioned. But this quest for the Destiny Stone has brought about some change in myself I never foresaw. Death teaches us a lot about our morality. I saw death in this place known as Ravenloft and have become totally grateful. In light of leading a good fight and cause I have become more of a servant to my circumstance rather than a leader of my own fate. When entering the hallway of statues with lost spirits I began to see much the way of our own predicament. Without purpose we too are lost. All the training and experience I have been exposed to I have found peace here in a place of such villainy. Not in the way of a castle that is filled with peace,
but peace within my own being.

The less I tried to do the right thing, the more likely it would become. For the course of this adventure it has been a question of faith. How was it that I was able to strike down Strahd with one hit of the sword compared to the last time it took two? It was simpler, only because I allowed whatever was going to happen to happen and have faith in its outcome for the good or the bad unawares how it might fall. Even as the secret passage was cut off for our escape, I knew somehow we were going to get out of this mess. Even when the spiders came down from their nest so did I know we were going to survive there attacks.

The ghost who appeared to give us advice, again there was a peace inside I could not account for. Yet it was there. Death I no longer feared, but simply accepted its goal. When the Wraiths came to attack, I was not certain if it was going to be possible to destroy them till miraculously the sun sword hit true with the inherent chance of missing them altogether. The creature was sent into oblivion as quickly as it had appeared and attacked.

I attempted to convict Gertruda of her error in Strahd. The party members were appalled at the possibility of her tagging along; yet again the problem was solved with her own timely move to return to her bedroom and sleep. Entering into the lower portion of the castle and finding ourselves in a predicament that should have killed us all… Yet again I stood there falling into a slumber that somehow, some way knowing we were going to get through. My faith in my fellow adventurers has finally come to what I have hoped for.

I would like to share one thing with my fellow explorer before we face the next day. That it takes a simple leap of faith to look beyond the veil. Going to the past will help to deal with the things in the present. I believe the room with the veil will have the answers to help destroy Strahd once and forever. “O Death where is thy sting, O grave where is thy victory.”

Heironeous, thank you for the lesson in faith. Less of me and more of you.