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Coasting Along.

Posted by Mr. DMFor group archive 2
Mr. DM
GM, 364 posts
Thu 4 Jun 2009
at 22:20
  • msg #1

Coasting Along

Although it was a cold winter's day, the weather wasn't too intolerable. It looked worse over in the east, where menacing rain clouds looked set to ruin some poor bugger's day.

Hu and Itzal had been travelling for the best part of the morning. Itzal's knowledge of rambling had proven invaluable to the land-lubber Hu, as the halfling showed the best ways of clambering over the undulating coastline, avoiding the perilous cliffs and treacherous bogs. The pair hadn't seen another sign of intelligent life since leaving the village they'd stayed overnight in.

They topped a rise, and saw below them a small estuary where a minor river emptied into the ocean. Half an hour or so brought them to the banks. There floated an overturned boat, with two arrows stuck out from its sides. Plenty of brush and a few clumps of trees lay round about.

Hu suggested they should take a look - at the least it seemed an odd place to abandon a boat, and at best, they might be able to use it to speed their journet along.
Itzal Myn
player, 18 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Fri 5 Jun 2009
at 00:01
  • msg #2

Re: Coasting Along

Hugging himself, chilled a bit, the little one looked at Hu with a bit of apprehension. "We kin look if you wanna, but I can't really be counted on to do much pullin of the boat." It was a self-deprecating comment about his lack of strength. But the halfling was uncomfortable. Hu seemed OK, but the biggies often turned on his type. Itzal wanted nothing more than to keep the larger Hu pleased with his skills, so that Itzal would have someone to follow around. The neediness would eventually irritate, Itzal knew, and so he tempered it as best he could.

"So, ya really want to get it outta the water? Empty it an mebbe use it?" Itzal looked around, seeing if there was an ambush. The cold was beginning to bother him, and he couldn't stop from thinking about the weight of the boat.
------------------------------------
OOC:
spot = 10 (natural 1, groan)

Hu Sit
player, 2 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2009
at 00:42
  • msg #3

Re: Coasting Along

Hu paid no real notice to Itzal, the little one seemed kinda jumpy anyway.  Perhaps it was a trait for his people to worry, when they were so much more fragile than him.  He carefully peered at the boat to see its condition.  The arrows sticking out of it worried him a bit.  Still, the boat would save them some time and he didn't mind the paddling.  That's what one comes to expect on a boat, hard work and ale.  He went to one knee and questioned Itzal:

"Well, should we take the boat?  I don't know much about this area, but it might save us some time in the future."
Itzal Myn
player, 19 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 8 Jun 2009
at 11:52
  • msg #4

Re: Coasting Along

"Maybe, but whatever shot it up..." The halfling was leaning away slightly, and still looked about, knowing he wasn't going to find anything. "OK, let's get it out." He huffed his chest, as if he had great strength, though he hadn't. He took direction carefully, and thoughtfully, helping to get the vessel righted.
Mr. DM
GM, 394 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2009
at 13:42
  • msg #5

Re: Coasting Along

As Itzal approached the stranded boat, the bushes to the right of it rustled. With a shout, out rushed two teenage lads brandishing makeshift clubs. They looked to be no older than 13 or 14, and as alike as brothers.

Seemingly keen to attack, they hesitated slightly at the sight of Itzal, as if he wasn't what they'd been expecting.
Itzal Myn
player, 20 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 8 Jun 2009
at 17:03
  • msg #6

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal jumped back, rather nimbly, short sword appearing in his hand as he did so. He was frightened, aware that humans, even immature ones, have happily tortured those of his kind. He was probably nothing more than a curiosity, a frog whose legs might be sacrificed in the name of juvenile experimentation. And so he said not a word, merely held the sword point low, ready. He'd run if he thought he could outrun them.
Mr. DM
GM, 399 posts
Tue 9 Jun 2009
at 11:59
  • msg #7

Re: Coasting Along

There was an awkward moment of silence whilst the two groups considered each other. Then, seeming to make their minds up, the two boys raised their clubs and made to attack. At that moment, a female voice called from behind Itzal and Hu:

"Stop, stop! Boys, leave off. Can't you see these are no bandits?"

As she spoke, the woman made her way around the two onlookers and began slapping the boys round their heads. She was of middle-age, tall and thin in a blue dress. Oddly, she carried a loaded crossbow in one hand.

"I'm sorry about this. The boys are jumpy, with good reason I might add. But - who are you, to go so armed?" She spoke more to Hu than to Itzal, though she did seem to include him in her questions.
Hu Sit
player, 3 posts
Wed 10 Jun 2009
at 03:49
  • msg #8

Re: Coasting Along

Hu relaxed and stood up.  He puffed out his chest a bit and faced the woman.

"We are two travelers on our way to distant lands.  My name is Hu Sit, and my friend is Itzal.  Our business is our own and we mean no harm to anyone."

He quickly glanced at Itzal and motioned for him to put his sword away.
He returned his gaze to the woman.

"We saw this boat overturned in the water and decided to investigate.  This boat could save us some good time on our journey, but we were wary of an ambush.  Both me and my compatriot 'ave found this region can be somewhat dangerous so we came prepared for travel and, if fortune holds such, battle."

Hu carefully glanced around to see if anyone else was about and eyed the woman carefully.  He raised his eyebrow, and questioned the lady.

"Now that we have introduced ourselves, may I ask whose prescence we are currently occupying?"
Itzal Myn
player, 21 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Wed 10 Jun 2009
at 15:02
  • msg #9

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal stepped back, water sloshing as he did so. The sword was put away, but the skittish nature of the halfling made it hard for him to hold still. He didn't speak, knowing it wasn't his place to do so.
Mr. DM
GM, 406 posts
Thu 11 Jun 2009
at 12:34
  • msg #10

Re: Coasting Along

The woman narrowed her eyes a little at Hu's response, but began to relax.

"Dangerous indeed. My family was travelling north. My husband was accompanying a historian who wished to look into a cave in the area - this was their boat. My sons and I took a detour whilst the men went upriver."

She shook her head and gathered her boys close, her eyes displaying great worry.

"They didn't come back when they were meant to, so we came this way to look for them, and found the boat like this. We heard you coming and hid, fearing you were the attackers."

The woman seemed to see Itzal and Hu in a new light, looking them up and down with a somewhat calculating expression.

"Please, can you spare us your assistance, good fellow?" she said, addressing Hu.

"I'm sorry - my name is Melia. Whoever took my husband can't have gone far, we could find him before sundown!"
Hu Sit
player, 4 posts
Thu 11 Jun 2009
at 22:41
  • msg #11

Re: Coasting Along

Hu furrowed his brow and took a second to look the family over.  He wasn't sure what to do.  On one hand he felt that it was right to help the unfortunates.  On the other he didn't want to put himself out for anymore risk than he needed to, especially if he was doing it for free.  He also needed to worry about  tiny Itzal.  He might be quick, but his little blade wouldn't hold up to a group of bandits.  He pondered these and finally looked directly at the woman.

"I want to help you out, Melia," he began, "but I don't want to risk someone's life that isn't my own."

"Itzal"
He loooked directly down on the little Halfling
"I think we should help this family out.  What is your honest opinion of this whole thing?"
Itzal Myn
player, 23 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Fri 12 Jun 2009
at 19:56
  • msg #12

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal looked to Hu and nodded, answering "OK." He was obviously still nervous, not willing to speak outright.
Mr. DM
GM, 422 posts
Mon 15 Jun 2009
at 11:17
  • msg #13

Re: Coasting Along

Melia's eyes grew wide.

"So does that mean you'll help us? I...I don't want to risk anyone's life either. But you two look like you're tough. Maybe my boys can help out?"

The two youngsters nodded vigorously, brandishing their clubs as they attempted to look fierce. The effect wasn't actually too bad - though you know they wouldn't be any match for you, their anger at the vanishment of their father might just make them useful in a fight.
Itzal Myn
player, 25 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 15 Jun 2009
at 11:36
  • msg #14

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal wasn't sure. Were they responding to the authority exuded by Hu, or were they actually including the wee one as a tough fellow, willing to help? He could barely contain himself as he spurted "Of course we will!" He so surprised himself that he bounced back a step in reaction.
Mr. DM
GM, 439 posts
Wed 17 Jun 2009
at 12:17
  • msg #15

Re: Coasting Along

The woman smiled, her eyes actually filling a little with tears.

"Oh thank you, thank you! Let's go right away - the gods know what's happening to them!"

The older of the two boys began to tug at his mother's skirts. She batted him away a couple of times, resulting in an exasperated glance shared between the youngsters, before she finally turned to him.

"What?!"

"Uh..Ma, we don't know where they went. The boat's here, but they coulda gone anywhere! 'cept maybe back south, or the men here would've seen 'em."

Melia's face fell as she realised the wisdom of the boy's words. She looked at Hu and Itzal imploringly.
Itzal Myn
player, 26 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 22 Jun 2009
at 13:49
  • msg #16

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal simply shrugged. THen he looked to Hu. He didn't want to usurp the position that Hu held, but he did whisper "So look for the cave, or look for the people?"
Hu Sit
player, 5 posts
Tue 23 Jun 2009
at 19:45
  • msg #17

Re: Coasting Along

"We Look for the CAVE"
Mr. DM
GM, 508 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2009
at 21:52
  • msg #18

Re: Coasting Along

Without further ado, Melia gathered up the somewhat reluctant little group and led the way upstream. Her sense of urgency was a little infectious. so Hu and Itzal pushed hard to make fast progress.

After a little more than an hour of walking, one of the young lads called out that he'd spotted what looked like a cave opening. Sure enough, there it was - just on the other side of the running water, peering out from beneath a ridge. Itzal nervously pointed out that - hang on, didn't there seem to be two people over there?




Dimble and Julien had finally found the blasted cave they'd been searching for at Dimble's insistence. Something about ancient artifacts - whatever, Julien had gone along for want of anything better to and some vague promises from the gnome about treasure. And after all, gnomes were trustworthy, right?

Just as the pair were about to start their exploration, they heard a sound from the opposite bank. There stood two excited looking boys accompanied by a lady who appeared to be their mother, a swarthy-looking man bearing a strangely shaped sword, and a worried looking halfling. Maybe they were treasure hunters too...
Hu Sit
player, 6 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2009
at 00:16
  • msg #19

Re: Coasting Along

Hu drew his sword in anticipation of a fight and loudly exclaimed

"Halt!  State your name and business now!  Why are you in this cave?"

He tried to look serious and stern while not overtly threatening
Dimble Nackle
player, 5 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2009
at 08:45
  • msg #20

Re: Coasting Along

"Finally, here we are !" said the gnome enthusiastically.
"Now let's get started ! I hope you brought something to light the way."

Just at that time, the weasel on his shoulder made a sound and turned his head toward the opposite bank.

"Oh dear." muttered the gnome, shaking his head. "To think I had been told this place was very little known. "

He moved toward the man, with a friendly demeanor, but ready to reach for any of his weapons.
"Welcome, strangers, please sheathe your sword : as you can see we are simple travelers in search of a place to rest. Surely a mas a strong as you seems to be has nothing to fear from an elderly gnome and his traveling companion?

And fighting in front of children and a lady - very pleased to meet you by the way -"
he says while bowing " would be an outrageous and barbarous action indeed.
Why don't we all sit and take some collation while we each tell how and why we met here?"

Julien Ravenhold
player, 3 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2009
at 15:59
  • msg #21

Re: Coasting Along

 Julian listened as the gnome he was currently traveling with continued to make idle chatter about a cave and sure enough it wasn't long before they came to one.

Not long after reaching the cave another group of people made themselves known. Julian let the little gnome do the talking as he reached under his cloak. His hand came to rest on the shaft of his Morningstar and brushed against the belt pouch that held his cravings.
Hu Sit
player, 7 posts
Wed 1 Jul 2009
at 03:44
  • msg #22

Re: Coasting Along

Upon seeing the little one Hu lowered his weapon a bit.  He was still a little on edge from the way the woman had got him riled up.  He decidedly let the weapon fall to his side and relaxed himself.

"I'm sorry sir, but I'm told this area is filled with Bandits.  In any case this woman's husband is missing and I believe there is some fowl play going on in these woods.  My name is Hu Sit and this here is my companion Itzal.  Have you by chance noticed anyone pass by?  The lady and her children seem to think the husband was looking for a cave to explore."
Itzal Myn
player, 28 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Wed 1 Jul 2009
at 11:55
  • msg #23

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal was ready to run, if he had to. And to fight, once more, if he had too. He was happy, though, when the conversation took a more pleasant tack. "And so we're looking for him." he squeaked as Hu spoke, and then stepped back, somewhat ashamed at having spoken out of turn.
Dimble Nackle
player, 6 posts
Wed 1 Jul 2009
at 14:23
  • msg #24

Re: Coasting Along

"Bandits you say? Thanks the gods we haven't met any of those ruffians ! Do you mean you have been attacked? " he looked with worry to the woman and the children.

"how terrible... This is a shame...
Let us sit a take a little something to eat while you explain the situation. We might , with some luck, be of some help.

No, no, don't thank me : it would be most dishonorable not to help a woman and her children.  This cave won't go away while we do whatever we can, after all.


wait... you spoke of a cave... I suppose you are talking about this one?
How stupid of me... well when you have lived as long as I have, you tend to forget a few obvious things..."

Julien Ravenhold
player, 4 posts
Wed 1 Jul 2009
at 19:25
  • msg #25

Re: Coasting Along

Removing his hand from under his cloak julien took in the new comers before speaking.

you may call me julien if it so pleases you. julien said while giving a bow. if you mean to go into the cave then I see no reason not to go in with you, at lest as far as common interests go. 
Mr. DM
GM, 546 posts
Wed 1 Jul 2009
at 22:54
  • msg #26

Re: Coasting Along

Melia called from across the stream.

"Oh, good master gnome, please help us! My husband and his companion were to come this way, look into a cave, and then return to us, but there's been no sign of them."

"Quickly - do you see any trace of them? Perhaps they're there in the cave?"

[Private to Dimble Nackle; Julien Ravenhold: OOC: You don't recall seeing any other caves along your way that would be of interest, and seeing as you came specifically to this one, this is most likely the one her husband was heading for.]
Dimble Nackle
player, 7 posts
Fri 3 Jul 2009
at 18:26
  • msg #27

Re: Coasting Along

"Well, well, well... Let me take a look, we should be able to find traces of a recent passage in this cave, I believe." says the gnome, moving toward the entrance.

"My my... my eyes aren't what they used to be. Would you please help me find something, bigsby?" and the weasel jumps from the gnome's shoulder and begins rummaging  everywhere.

[Private to GM: 20:24, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 20 using 1d20+3. bigsby spot.
20:23, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 8 using 1d20+4. spot.
]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:26, Fri 03 July 2009.
Itzal Myn
player, 29 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Sat 4 Jul 2009
at 15:29
  • msg #28

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal began to have sneaking suspicion that something wasn't right about the woman. Or the boys. He paused, searching the area visually for a moment for more ideas. His eyes paused near the entrance to the cave, looking for footprints. Humanoid or otherwise.
Mr. DM
GM, 590 posts
Mon 6 Jul 2009
at 12:22
  • msg #29

Re: Coasting Along

Bigsby had a good ferret around, but from his negative wave of emotion Dimble was sure he hadn't found anything of interest. Likewise, the gnome's old eyes didn't pick up any tracks. If anything, the cave seemed undisturbed - unsurprising, since it was rather out of the way in relation to any settlements.

Itzal too couldn't see any signs of passage, either on his side of the stream or the side of the cave.
Dimble Nackle
player, 9 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2009
at 08:31
  • msg #30

Re: Coasting Along

"I'm afraid, madame, that I haven't found any trace of recent passage in this place. but maybe young eyes would be more able to spot what eludes me. Why don't we try to find a ford to meet on this side of the river?"

asked the gnome, his face and tone changing from sad to welcoming.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 8 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2009
at 14:15
  • msg #31

Re: Coasting Along

indeed lets. it would be better to talk in person then it is to yell ourselves silly across the river. called Julian as he nodded in approval of the little gnomes idea.

then hit with a sudden thought he lowed his voice so only his friend could hear and asked do you think they are trustworthy?
Hu Sit
player, 9 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2009
at 14:40
  • msg #32

Re: Coasting Along

Hu put his sword away and proceeded to carefully test the river for a fordable area.  He then stopped for a second and looked over at Itzal.

"Itzal, help me find a good place to cross and I can carry you across on my back, provided it is shallow enough, that way we can keep our goods as dry as possible."
Itzal Myn
player, 30 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Wed 8 Jul 2009
at 12:21
  • msg #33

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal nodded, and began walking the shore, trying to find a place suitable shallow, all the while casting worried looks at the woman.
Mr. DM
GM, 618 posts
Wed 8 Jul 2009
at 12:42
  • msg #34

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal and Hu began casting about - it didn't take long to decide that the stream was passable only a few metres up from the cave. Hu hoisted Itzal onto his back and the two made somewhat undignified progress across the water. Hu was almost up to his waist, which meant Itzal would have struggled greatly in the current.

Melia and the boys remained anxiously on the far side, the woman seeming to grow increasingly agitated.

[Private to Itzal Myn: OOC: How about a sense motive roll to see what you can make of Melia?]
Dimble Nackle
player, 10 posts
Wed 8 Jul 2009
at 13:18
  • msg #35

Re: Coasting Along

"I believe you should come with us, lady. Should something happen to you while we are away in the cave, It would cause me great grief and guilt.  I'm quite certain our friend here could help you and your boys."
says the gnome when he sees the woman's trouble
Itzal Myn
player, 31 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Wed 8 Jul 2009
at 14:26
  • msg #36

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal was still concerned.[Private to Mr. DM: Sense motive 15]
Hu Sit
player, 10 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2009
at 16:18
  • msg #37

Re: Coasting Along

"I'm sure the strong lads could easily ford this stretch of river!" Hu said brightly.

"But just in case, I have some rope here."
Hu looked over towards Julien.

"You sir?  Could you help me hold this rope?  I will toss the other end to them and then we can help them across!"
Julien Ravenhold
player, 9 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2009
at 16:19
  • msg #38

Re: Coasting Along

I think we could do one better then that, sir. julien said as he took his long spear and drove the sharp point into the ground. Once he was sure it was in deep enough he took the offered rope and tied one end to the spear's shaft. He coiled the rest of the rope up before handing it to the other man for him to throw across the river.

I think that should make things a little easier.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:23, Thu 09 July 2009.
Hu Sit
player, 11 posts
Fri 10 Jul 2009
at 18:56
  • msg #39

Re: Coasting Along

Hu tied a loop around himself and firmly planted his feet.  He then tossed the rope to the other side of the ford for the boys to grab.

"Tie it to yourself and come one across!  If you slip we will keep you from heading down river."
Mr. DM
GM, 634 posts
Sun 12 Jul 2009
at 17:32
  • msg #40

Re: Coasting Along

At the urging from Hu, Melia and the boys waded into the stream and began to make their way across, using the rope to help. Melia made it with ease, and although the lads struggled in the current, they got there in the end.

Now rather wet, the group gathered near the cave entrance where they could better speak.

Looking impatient, Melia made a dash for the cave entrance, calling out "Come on then, come on! What if they're in here?"

[Private to Itzal Myn: You're pretty sure she's genuine, if a bit distressed!]
Hu Sit
player, 12 posts
Sun 12 Jul 2009
at 22:50
  • msg #41

Re: Coasting Along

"Yes! Let us hurry! Lead on Itzal!"
Itzal Myn
player, 32 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Sun 12 Jul 2009
at 23:28
  • msg #42

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal shook his head and took lead, accepting the order as subserviently as possible. His sharp eyes scanned as he moved into the darkness. Quickly, he took a step to the left, knowing that if he remained in the entrance, he'd be silhouetted, an easy target.
-----------------------------
OOC:
spot = 24, hide = 29, listen = 24

Dimble Nackle
player, 12 posts
Mon 13 Jul 2009
at 06:53
  • msg #43

Re: Coasting Along

" Ms Melia, I strongly advice you to stay behind us. I understand your wish to know your husband's whereabout, but if this cave has what I expect, there are most probably a few devices to protect them.  So, unless you want to deprive your boys from another parent, you shall listen to me."
Says the gnome, not unkindly but with enough strictness to be certain the message was well received.

He will follow the group, staying near the boys, doing a few tricks to try to enlighten their mood, while trying to get a few informations on them, their mother and their missing father.
[Private to GM:
08:52, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 8 using 1d20+6. gather information.
 ... well it appears they are too focused on their task to really listen or wish to speak ^^
]
Mr. DM
GM, 640 posts
Mon 13 Jul 2009
at 12:45
  • msg #44

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal led the way into the shadowy cave. The roof was a good height, easily tall enough to accomodate the humans. The floor was uneven - soil at first, giving way to bare rock after around ten feet.

The air in the cave smelt of the dampness that lined the walls, but it wasn't unpleasant. Treading cautiously, the group ventured farther in. Taking a slight bend to the left, the way narrowed so that it was possible to walk only two abreast. Although the ground seemed to be sloping downward, it was evident that some source of light would be needed in order to continue.

In the back of the procession, Dimble was trying to cheer the boys and engage them in conversation. It seemed though that they were too distressed to really register the fancy tricks the gnome performed. He did manage to glean that their father was a local guide who knew the area well.

[Private to Itzal Myn: OOC: You don't see anything worrying - unless you count the complete lack of tracks as worrying...]
Hu Sit
player, 13 posts
Tue 14 Jul 2009
at 04:26
  • msg #45

Re: Coasting Along

"This cave is rather dark isn't it?  Does anyone have a torch?  Could be useful to spot holes in the floor."
Dimble Nackle
player, 13 posts
Tue 14 Jul 2009
at 06:53
  • msg #46

Re: Coasting Along

"I'm afraid I don't have one... "
says the gnome
"I usually see quite well even under a starry night so I don't need one.  Yet I should have thought of it."
he adds with some embarrassment.

"Well if none of us have something we could use, I suggest we go outside, find some branch and make a few torch."
Julien Ravenhold
player, 11 posts
Wed 15 Jul 2009
at 15:40
  • msg #47

Re: Coasting Along

I have some flint and tender we can use to light the torches when we make them. said Julian as he followed the others into the cave.
Itzal Myn
player, 33 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Wed 15 Jul 2009
at 17:41
  • msg #48

Re: Coasting Along

"I don't see anything of interest in here." the small fry piped up.
Hu Sit
player, 14 posts
Thu 16 Jul 2009
at 15:26
  • msg #49

Re: Coasting Along

"are you sure there aren't any tracks or anything?"
Itzal Myn
player, 34 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Thu 16 Jul 2009
at 18:16
  • msg #50

Re: Coasting Along

"Completely lacking..."
Mr. DM
GM, 690 posts
Sun 26 Jul 2009
at 16:38
  • msg #51

Re: Coasting Along

Working together, the group had no problems gathering enough wood and material to make a few torches. With Itzal again leading the way, this time carrying a lit torch.

In the flickering light it was possible to see that the narrow back of the cave looked remarkably like a corridor, though it may just have been a quirk of nature. The passage lead gently down upon bare, damp rock for around fourty feet, before widening out into a roughly circular chamber around 30 feet in diameter. The walls of the chamber widened around a foot from the floor, forming a shelf-like protrusion that ran around the room.

Almost opposite the entryway was an arch; this was definitely artificial in shape, and was covered by slimy weeds so that it was not possible to see beyond it.

On a crumbled protrusion to the left of the arch sat an oddly large owl with parculiar brown and white plumage. It glared at the group as the crowded into the entrance to the chamber, head tilted to one side slightly. Seemingly making its mind up, its beak opened in a piercing shriek...
Dimble Nackle
player, 15 posts
Sun 26 Jul 2009
at 17:35
  • msg #52

Re: Coasting Along

"what an odd configuration for a cave. Very interesting.  Did your father say something about it?" he asked the boys.

When they reached the large 'room', he didn't hide his interest.

"Now this is the kind of thing I'm looking for."


He moved toward the arch, with the obvious intention to remove the weeds when he saw the owl and stopped in his track.

"how remarkable..."


[Private to GM:
19:29, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 21 using 1d20+4. knowledge beast lore.
19:28, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 5 using 1d20+4. knowledge (adventuring) ^^.
19:36, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 14 using 1d20+4. knowledge beast lore bis (feat).
19:36, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 20 using 1d20+4. knowledge (adventuring) ^^ bis (feat).
19:28, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 14 using 1d20+5. will save.
]
This message was last edited by the player at 17:37, Sun 26 July 2009.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 14 posts
Sun 26 Jul 2009
at 20:36
  • msg #53

Re: Coasting Along

julien looked around the cave as dimble rambled on in the back ground. when dimble moved over the the arch julien head over to him.


----------------------
OOC: will save: 16
Hu Sit
player, 16 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2009
at 04:30
  • msg #54

Re: Coasting Along

OOC:

00:28, Today: Hu Sit rolled 10 using 1d20-1. Will Save.
Mr. DM
GM, 698 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2009
at 18:52
  • msg #55

Re: Coasting Along

The boys shrugged at Dimble's question - seemed they just weren't interested in such things!

"Dunno - 's just an old cave I guess. He's just a guide, the man who hired him was more interested."

As Dimble blundered into the cave distractedly, Julien followed him. Itzal and Hu remained just behind, where they'd lead the way in.

The cry from the owl was dreadful, almost otherworldly. Through the heads of all four of the explorers flickered terrible images, which inspired in them a mighty fear. Julien, Dimble and Itzal remained steadfast; Hu had turned a strange shade of white, though...
Dimble Nackle
player, 16 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2009
at 19:48
  • msg #56

Re: Coasting Along

Dimble shook his head, still shivering from the owl's cry.

"How wonderful ! A fright owl.  An unusual animal, not really dangerous despite their unusual cry. It allows them to literally 'terror freeze' their prey before snatching it. Thankfully we are a little too big for her."
Said the gnome, apparently not dampened by the situation.

"Collectors would pay quite something for such an marvel. But This is not our current business and we are too far from such a person for it to be useful.

Now, how are we to get past it without more inconvenient cry?"

Hu Sit
player, 17 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2009
at 19:49
  • msg #57

Re: Coasting Along

Hu felt a wave of bone-chilling fear run over him.  Dimble and the rest of the party suddenly seemed very far away.  He heard him talking but it came out rather unintelligible.  He couldn't help himself.  He said loudly to himself.

"I need to get out!  I need to leave right now!  NOW!!!"

He then proceeded to run towards the entrance of the cave without paying attention to his footing.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 15 posts
Wed 29 Jul 2009
at 19:06
  • msg #58

Re: Coasting Along

The owl's cry made julien come up short as fear griped at his mind. He was able to push the irrational fear aside.


OK, lets not let that thing do that again.
Dimble Nackle
player, 17 posts
Wed 29 Jul 2009
at 20:58
  • msg #59

Re: Coasting Along

"humm let me try something. It would be a shame to kill such a creature. After all we are the trespassers..." said the gnome.

"What surprises me is the fact it is still here. If your husband and the man that hired him really came here, it's most probable the owl would have reacted as it did... We should get closer to the archway, to see if there is some evidence of the two men's"

he then muttered a few words while making a small gesture in front of the owl.

[Private to GM: cast 'sleep' on the owl. DC 13 will]
Hu Sit
player, 18 posts
Thu 30 Jul 2009
at 02:41
  • msg #60

Re: Coasting Along

Stumbling over his feet and falling a few times, Hu desperately made his way out of the cave.  The cry from the owl seemed to be blinding his ears and the images in his head felt like they were about to split his skull.  Finally he saw the entrance to the cave.  He was sure that the light at the end of the tunnel would ward off the demons in his skull.
Itzal Myn
player, 36 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Thu 30 Jul 2009
at 11:04
  • msg #61

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal shook his head a few times, trying to get the ringing out. Hu's hasty retreat surprised the halfling, who watched with amusement and concern as the bug guy ran off. But the gnome's behavior was perhaps even more odd. Itzal moved into a position behind the gesticulating gnome, wondering what he could be trying. Itzal's natural inclination was to simply pass it by. Inspecting it and perhaps capturing it would never have crossed the rogue's mind.
Mr. DM
GM, 723 posts
Thu 30 Jul 2009
at 11:27
  • msg #62

Re: Coasting Along

Whatever the gnome had done, it was effective - the owl slowly closed its eyes, then slumped forward from its perch, falling to the floor.
Itzal Myn
player, 37 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Thu 30 Jul 2009
at 11:30
  • msg #63

Re: Coasting Along

"Now that's a good thing. Shall we press on, or wait for our companions to get over their fear?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:31, Thu 30 July 2009.
Dimble Nackle
player, 19 posts
Thu 30 Jul 2009
at 16:13
  • msg #64

Re: Coasting Along

"I believe we should proceed. Let's search this room for any trace of the men we are looking for" said the gnome moving toward the archway

"our friend should come back soon enough, I believe it will take longer for him do overcome his shame than to overcome his fear..." he added with a little smile
Itzal Myn
player, 38 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Sat 1 Aug 2009
at 00:29
  • msg #65

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal nodded, and pressed forward, clearly influenced by the skills of the gnome. Quietly he moved, scanning ahead for any dangers, ears sharp for unexpected noise.
----------------------
OOC:
spot = 14
listen = 21

Mr. DM
GM, 751 posts
Sun 2 Aug 2009
at 17:40
  • msg #66

Re: Coasting Along

Dimble and Itzal looked carefully around the room. There was little to see. There were no tracks upon the rock floor, but plenty of droppings to indicate the owl had been using this place as home for some time.

The archway was covered with the thick green weeds. Standing directly before it, the two explorers could see a little beyond the plants - the chamber beyond seemed to be of similar size and shape to the one they were in, though they couldn't see the far side.

Nothing seemed to move within, but the shadows from the torchlight seemed to suggest there were more obstacles in the next room. They couldn't see properly without moving the weeds, though.
Hu Sit
player, 19 posts
Sun 2 Aug 2009
at 21:35
  • msg #67

Re: Coasting Along

As Hu finally caught his breath he realized that he had abandoned his friends.  He quickly gathered himself and turned around.  He jogged back into the main room with his bow out, ready to kill the owl that had frightened him.  However, upon seeing it asleep he deduced that the party had already handled the problem.  He then yelled for Itzal to say that he was coming back.
Itzal Myn
player, 39 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 3 Aug 2009
at 11:55
  • msg #68

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal shook his head. Yelling? But he knew that the larger man might know best what to do. Itzal immediately stepped to the side of the opening, motioning Dimble to do the same. If that shout was heard, and if there was something beyond, then it might come out to say hello to the noisemaker. He prepared to fight, wondering if his hunch was correct.
Dimble Nackle
player, 20 posts
Mon 3 Aug 2009
at 20:40
  • msg #69

Re: Coasting Along

Dimble moved carefully the weeds, more than annoyed by the curious man's yell.

"Now if he woke the owl, I won't do anything to help him... Quite a trouble maker you associated yourself with" he added to the halfing.
He was also surprised by Itzal's reaction: had he not recognized their companion's voice?
Itzal Myn
player, 40 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Tue 4 Aug 2009
at 01:34
  • msg #70

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal quickly put a finger on his lips and then gestured with his head at the opening, and the unexplored room. He was nearly frantic as he did so.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 19 posts
Fri 7 Aug 2009
at 05:46
  • msg #71

Re: Coasting Along

as the lager of their new compaoins came back into the room julein graped him by the arm and pulled him to the side. with one finger infront of his face he made a "shh" gesture at Hu before walking back over to dimble, long spear at the readly incase anything "poped" out at the little man.

it was then that he was hit with a thought and turned to see how the boys and lone women where doing?
Itzal Myn
player, 41 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Fri 7 Aug 2009
at 19:10
  • msg #72

Re: Coasting Along

Since nothing came out of the weed covered cave opening, Itzal nodded towards it and pushed through, taking a quick look about as he did so.
Dimble Nackle
player, 22 posts
Sun 9 Aug 2009
at 06:26
  • msg #73

Re: Coasting Along

'A very cautious man' thought Dimble before following Itzal in the next room.
'But it is not a bad habit, I must admit'
Mr. DM
GM, 804 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Wed 12 Aug 2009
at 19:20
  • msg #74

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal and Dimble pushed past the unpleasantly slimy weeds and into the next chamber.

The room was disappointingly clear of life. However, the walls of the roughly circular chamber displayed the remains of old frescoes, and along the sides of the room were arranged stone benches, carved from the rock itself. These benches in turn bore worn artistic carvings. At the far end was a dais, upon which stood the remains of a stone lectern.

There was material here enough to greatly interest a historian - but no sign of the two men they sought.

Back in the first chamber Julien checked on Melia and the children - they seemed well enough, if a little fidgety in the damp air.
Dimble Nackle
player, 23 posts
Wed 12 Aug 2009
at 20:35
  • msg #75

Re: Coasting Along

"wonderful! what an interesting discovery!"
said the gnome as he began to inspect every area of the room, taking notes and mumbling in his beard. Only a few words were intelligible and repeated
"interesting" "how curious" "how remarkable"

[Private to GM:
Oo I just realised I forgot to put skill point in the Knowledge (history) skill^^


22:34, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 14 using 1d20+6. knowledge (bardic) 2.
22:34, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 16 using 1d20+6. knowledge (bardic) 1.
22:31, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 14 using 1d20+4. knowledge (religion) 2.
22:31, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 23 using 1d20+4. knowledge (religion) 1.
22:31, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 21 using 1d20+4. knowledge (arcana) 2.
22:31, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 12 using 1d20+4. knowledge (arcana) 1.
22:30, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 18 using 1d20+4. knowledge (adventuring) 2.
22:30, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 6 using 1d20+4. knowledge (adventuring) 1.
22:29, Today: Secret Roll: Dimble Nackle rolled 18 using 1d20+3. search.
]
Itzal Myn
player, 42 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Thu 13 Aug 2009
at 13:36
  • msg #76

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal watched as Dimble carefully took notes. "Interesting," he echoed. But he was interested in something else. He was carefully inspecting the room, or cave, for any sign of an exit, other than the way then entered.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 20 posts
Fri 14 Aug 2009
at 04:06
  • msg #77

Re: Coasting Along

julien signed as he watched the little gnome run to and fro form one part of the room to another. shaking his head in such away as to show that he was used to the gnomes actions julien once again took up a stance that would allow him to interpose him self bewteen the gnome and any danger that my arise.
Mr. DM
GM, 827 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Wed 19 Aug 2009
at 17:48
  • msg #78

Re: Coasting Along

Dimble and Itzal looked carefully around the room, poking into every nook and cranny and leaving nowhere unchecked.

Despite the thoroughness of their search, they turned up nothing much. No concealed exit, no hidden treasure - just old carvings.

[Private to Dimble Nackle: From the style of the carvings and certain figures that are represented, as well as the size of the benches and dais, you're pretty sure the work is halfling in origin.

That's fairly odd, since the halflings are supposed (by certain majorities) to be a lesser race, and not at all sophisticated.

By the layout and positioning of the lectern you'd guess that this used to be a temple of sorts, but you cannot tell to which god - certainly not one that you know of.

The details are fascinating - but only to an historian.
]
Dimble Nackle
player, 24 posts
Wed 19 Aug 2009
at 18:54
  • msg #79

Re: Coasting Along

"This is indeed most interesting"
said the gnome after some time.
"You" he said to Itzal "Can you believe this place was carved by halflings? This was some kind of temple.  Does it ring a bell?"


He turned to face the woman and the boys.

"Sadly - or Thankfully, I suppose - There is no trace of your husband.  Are you sure he had this particular cave in mind when he left?  Do you have other possible destination in mind?"
Itzal Myn
player, 43 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Fri 21 Aug 2009
at 02:05
  • msg #80

Re: Coasting Along

"Interesting, but really, a let down. I'll check for other possibilities on the way out. Good news on the man, though." Itzal moved back through the green exit, and began to search along the corridor for any other branch that tey could take.
Julien Ravenhold
player, 22 posts
Sun 23 Aug 2009
at 06:41
  • msg #81

Re: Coasting Along

julien walked into the next room and began looking around as well. He doudted he'd find anything the other two had missed but who knew.

[Private to Mr. DM: juliens gonna look around useing Elfsight. +2 to search and spot and I get to auto roll for serect doors like and elf.]
Mr. DM
GM, 836 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Wed 26 Aug 2009
at 18:31
  • msg #82

Re: Coasting Along

Melia looked a little panicked.

"No, no, they were definately heading upriver to this cave. But we did find their boat a way back - maybe they were taken the other way?"

She paled.

"Out to sea..."

Meanwhile, Itzal and Julien searched thoroughly - but could find no sign of another exit. Combined with the lack of tracks and the undisturbed owl, it seemed clear that the men had not reached their destination.
Dimble Nackle
player, 25 posts
Wed 26 Aug 2009
at 18:46
  • msg #83

Re: Coasting Along

apparently done with his scribble and sketching Dimble detected the woman's worry and answered.

"Well, I believe we are done here, at least for the moment. I'm looking forward to meeting your husband, I must say. I have so many questions to ask him.

So, which way did you say they could have gone? You hinted that they were abducted? Did something like that already happen? Do you know of some kind of piracy in this part of the land?  Anything that could explain a possible kidnapping? "

Itzal Myn
player, 44 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Thu 27 Aug 2009
at 11:07
  • msg #84

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal was disappointed, but understood that not every cave nor every ruin would be places of great interest. The owl was interesting, little else was going to stick with him.

Dimble asked his question, and Itzal was so used to stepping into the background that he had no trouble allowing the smarter to take the lead. Itzal spent his time souring the nearby ground and branches for telltale signs of passage, passage not directly attributable to the present company's presence.
Mr. DM
GM, 879 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Wed 23 Sep 2009
at 21:42
  • msg #85

Re: Coasting Along

Melia looked worried.

"Pirates, yes...yes, and bandits too! The Thorny Crew, the Briar Gang...they've been quiet of late but who knows?"

She frowned.

"We thought it'd be safe, just travelling up the coast. Not much round here for bandits, and pirates would surely not be this close to land?"

Melia didn't sound confident.

"Maybe we went the wrong way. Could..could we check for signs back at where we found the boat?"
Dimble Nackle
player, 27 posts
Thu 24 Sep 2009
at 11:34
  • msg #86

Re: Coasting Along

"Well, I don't think we have many others options.  And this little trip proved to be quite interesting after all"

said the gnome confidently.

"would you be kind enough to tell us more about those bandits?  Anything might be of some use, at some time : you never know"
Itzal Myn
player, 46 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Mon 28 Sep 2009
at 12:40
  • msg #87

Re: Coasting Along

Itzal nodded as she made the suggested, and hurried along to further investigate the area around the boat. He checked all the surrounding hard land, trying to find anything, a footprint, a crushed or broken plant, disturbed foliage, anything that could hint at recent passage.
Mr. DM
GM, 888 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Tue 29 Sep 2009
at 20:46
  • msg #88

Re: Coasting Along

"You mean you haven't heard of the Briar Gang?" asked Melia, shooting an odd glance at Itzal.

"They've been menacing north Ddaran for a couple of years now - though they've been quiet of late. They mostly range around Shadow Valley, that's a way south."

She waited till Itzal was ahead and out of earshot, then continued.

[Private to Dimble Nackle; Hu Sit; Julien Ravenhold: "And the Briar Gang are mostly his type", she said. "Hope you're right to trust him."]

"The Thorny Crew, they're just pirates round here. Surely wouldn't be this far in to land though."

Leading the way back to the boat, Itzal had a good look around.
Dimble Nackle
player, 28 posts
Fri 9 Oct 2009
at 06:24
  • msg #89

new lead

At the boat, Dimble will take a closer look too, to try to find any clue about the previous owners.

"And why would those ruffians kidnap your husband? or maybe was it for his client?"
Julien Ravenhold
player, 23 posts
Wed 14 Oct 2009
at 23:58
  • msg #90

Re: new lead

Sorry to say that I have not heard anything about this gang. So any information you can offer would prove most help.

Julien asked breaking his long held silence.
Itzal Myn
player, 48 posts
It isn't really mine
bt I'd like some
Fri 16 Oct 2009
at 11:41
  • msg #91

Re: new lead

I found nothing," Itzal reported when he rejoined. "So perhaps there's nothing that can be determined form this. Maybe we should just push along." He didn't bother looking at the woman. He knew his opinion would count for next to nothing with the human, regardless of her commitment to finding her husband. Itzal still doubted that story.
Mr. DM
GM, 903 posts
That's Mister DM, to you!
Mon 19 Oct 2009
at 21:52
  • msg #92

Re: new lead

Melia frowned, again looking askance at Itzal.

"The Briar Gang well they're...they're halfing bandits. The big names around here. Army's been trying to deal with them for a couple of years now, but they just can't track them all down."

"They surely wouldn't bother with two men though - and why take them, if they did? I suppose the historian he was with might be worth a ransom, but I can't be sure."

Itzal and Dimble took a careful look in and around the boat, being extra thorough. It seemed it had been dragged up the bank from the seaward side, and some plants off in that direction were flattened. Perhaps they'd gone the wrong way when they went to the cave, and the culprits were to be found near the sea shore...
Dimble Nackle
player, 29 posts
Sat 24 Oct 2009
at 20:39
  • msg #93

Re: new lead

"I'm beginning to think this historian guy might be more than he let you know... or at least that he knew more."

said the gnome thoughtfully.

"Anyways, I suppose we might go backward and try to find where they went.  Is any of you able to 'drive' that kind of boat? I we have to explore the shore, we might need do to so from the sea."
Dimble Nackle
player, 32 posts
Sat 21 Nov 2009
at 21:47
  • msg #94

Re: new lead

Dimble will then follow the other way, the seashore.
If he has to go by boat, he will ask the boys to know if they are used to navigate with it.
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