Round 3 results----------

Lennox rushes in to protect Khayyim as a bodyguard, but the wave of foul stench from the undead overpowered Lennox's senses and he drops to the ground vomiting his breakfast. Nolan casts a Fireball spell and the hallway erupts into exploding flame as undead bodies fall to the ground in burning heaps. Kallyan directs her Flaming Sphere to ram Ghast 5, but it moves out of the way of most of the flames in it's escape. Byron and Myarra are ready with their Greatswords, but it doesn't appear they're going to need them. Ghast 4 tries to flee from the scene, but Khayyim slashes it down with his Bastard sword. Ghast 5, now Turned, had to stop, dodge a Fireball and a Flaming Sphere, and is now high tailing it out of the area. Twiggy moved in behind Byron and Myarra and fired off a stone from his sling. It bounced off the floor, heading to where Wight C used to be, bounced off the Golem's sword and hits Ghast 6 square in the chest. Ghoul 1 tries to flee, but the Iron Golem makes goo of it. Ghast 6, now Turned, flees from the area. The Iron Golem moves forward as Roenthelm asks if everyone is OK. Aliana pulled out her Longbow, but decided to wait as she watched Khayyim move forward. He looked to be casting a spell, but then stopped as the enemy would be well out of reach. Amara too was going to cast a spell, but decided that it wouldn't be worth it on 2 fleeing undead.


Remember House Rule #6: You as a player can post your action anytime during the round and also change your actions up until I update the round. I think this will speed up the rounds a tad, so we don't have to wait on someone so you can post.

Name        Initiative        Health       Misc.
Lennox          27            37/37        ^Protection Devotion feat, $Sickened
Nolan           24            67/67        Levitated, Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Kallyan         21            29/29        Mass Conviction! Flaming Sphere^ ^Protection Devotion feat
Panther         21            ??/??        Mass Conviction! Magic Fang ^Protection Devotion feat
Byron           20            53/53        Shield of Faith*, Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Myarra          20            65/65        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Ghast  5        17            ??/21        Rebuked-Fleeing
Twiggy          14            24/24        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Ghast  6        13            ??/18        Rebuked-Fleeing
Iron Golem      12            129/129
Roenthelm       07            44/44        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Aliana          05            38/38        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Khayyim         04            46/46        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Amara           01            37/37        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat, Levitated

Undead destroyed: 5 Ghoul, 4 Wights, 1 Ghast

*Shield of Faith = +2 to AC for 8 rounds
!Mass Conviction = +2 Morale bonus on all saves for 498 rounds
^Flaming Sphere = Red Circle FS on Battle Map
Magic Fang = +1 Enchantment bonus to Hit and Damage for 38 Rounds
^Protection Devotion feat, all allies within 30' burst gain +3 Sacred bonus to AC for 9 rounds.
$Sickened: -2 penalty on all rolls for ?? Rounds

Battle Map #1 has been updated
#2 and #3 are pictures of what the undead look like.

Nolan didn't want the undead to get away because the threat would still be in the area. So, Nolan cast another magic missile spell and aimed it at the furthest target until it fell. The remaining missiles, if any, would then go to the last undead.

Magic missile to #6, then 5: 4,4,3,5

Amara found it suspicious that the undead fled before battle was even enjoined. She looked around cautiously, taking advantage of our levitated position, to see if there might be any more approaching from any direction - especially of the types that might be incorporeal and not make noise when moving.

Kali grimaced as her flaming sphere missed the Ghast, but allowed herself a brief smile as Nolan's fireball Destroyed a fair chunk of the enemies. She concentrated on the sphere, willing the sphere to change directions and follow one of the ghasts.

Standard action: Mentally move the sphere to chase Ghast 5
This message was last edited by the player at 01:51, Tue 25 Oct 2016.

Twiggy sends another stone at the undead but it falls short, he is not used to these long distances with a sling "Are we going to go after them? As long as the clerics stay back these things will not fight back until the turning wears off."




14:05, Today: Twiggy Flinch rolled 9 using 1d20+8.  sling magic bullet to undead 5

"I would suggest we finish doing whatever we are planning on doing with the room and what is within," Amara replied to Twiggy, but with the sort of tone that made it clear she did not consider that a requirement and that discussion, or being overruled, was certainly possible.

"Well, Byron," Myarra sighs, lowering her sword slightly while looking around in all directions.  Assuming there are no more enemies approaching, she continues, "It would appear our services are not required.  Shall we finish searching the bodies.  I think the others can take care of these last two stragglers."

Fury burns in Lennox's eyes as he remains on one knee, his own mighty greatsword barely clutched in a sweaty fist. The sweat beads along his temples, and his breathing is ragged. He was humiliated, and enraged. Culver, by all that's Holy and not... He mentally directs his fury to the man presently responsible for everything in his life at that moment. The coldness wracking his body is bone deep. He know's that the sensations are unnatural, but as he empties himself again... That only makes him angrier and angrier.

Round 4 Results----------

Lennox doesn't feel well at all due to the horrid stench of the Ghast, dry heaving and cursing Culver at the same time. Nolan casts a Magic Missile spell and keeps hitting Ghast 6 until it fell, then to Ghast 5, who took the last of the missiles. Kalliyan rams the last Ghast with her Flaming Sphere and the abomination falls to the ground in a burning heap.

Battle is over.

Experience has been updated: link to a message in this game

Name        Initiative        Health       Misc.
Lennox          27            37/37        ^Protection Devotion feat, $Sickened
Nolan           24            67/67        Levitated, Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Kalliyan         21            29/29        Mass Conviction! Flaming Sphere^ ^Protection Devotion feat
Panther         21            ??/??        Mass Conviction! Magic Fang ^Protection Devotion feat
Byron           20            53/53        Shield of Faith*, Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Myarra          20            65/65        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Twiggy          14            24/24        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Iron Golem      12            129/129
Roenthelm       07            44/44        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Aliana          05            38/38        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Khayyim         04            46/46        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat
Amara           01            37/37        Mass Conviction! ^Protection Devotion feat, Levitated

Undead destroyed: 5 Ghoul, 4 Wights, 3 Ghast

*Shield of Faith = +2 to AC for 7 rounds
!Mass Conviction = +2 Morale bonus on all saves for 497 rounds
^Flaming Sphere = Red Circle FS on Battle Map
Magic Fang = +1 Enchantment bonus to Hit and Damage for 37 Rounds
^Protection Devotion feat, all allies within 30' burst gain +3 Sacred bonus to AC for 8 rounds.
$Sickened: -2 penalty on all rolls for ?? Rounds

Battle Map #1 has been updated
#2 and #3 are pictures of what the undead look like.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:16, Tue 25 Oct 2016.

Amara pulled her legs up, to sit cross-legged in the air, levitating near the ceiling. "I shall keep watch."

In reply to Myarra (msg # 7):

Byron sighs a long sigh himself.  Teasing both Nolan and Myarra a little.  Nolan's fireball took all our fun out of this.  Then in a much more serious tone directed at Nolan.  Then again a good fireball can save a lot of lives and effort.

Looking at Twiggy.  Myarra and I had little sparring match a few days ago.  I wouldn't want to get in the way of her sword and so I moved so that we'd both have room to swing our swords without interfering with each other. As we both prefer the same type of sword it made it easier for me to know how much room we both needed in this hallway.  Since we lost Alstadin, I trust Myarra to watch one of my flanks and I hope she trusts me the same way in combat.

Looking at Kali and her panther.  Ry makes a very good guardian for you both in and out of combat.

Byron then helps with the burying of the bodies who deserve to be buried with respect.

Looking around and making sure everyone was OK, "Is anyone hurt? I can't heal much, but what I do have is yours."

Roenthelm seemed very concerned for the party's well being, making sure everyone was doing alright.

Khayyim wiped his blade clean of the blood and ichor using a rag on one of the creature's corpses, then turned to Lennox.

"Will you be alright? This smell can be quite unsettling to the unprepared, but the unease will not last very long. Breathe quietly, walk around a bit, it will subside quickly."

Returning to his comrades, the cleric frowned, a grim look upon his face.

"Well, that was over quickly. I gather you lot have not had much opportunity to face such creatures? Their touch and smell can be awful to the weak of constitution, but trained warriors can dispatch them with ease. In addition, the spells I cast would have protected you against their foul curse. Quite frankly, I would have expected more... vigor. You don't look like rookies. But maybe I just misunderstood your tactics. If staying back and waiting is more your style, I shall use different spells next time."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:33, Wed 26 Oct 2016.

Moving around the people in her group, Aliana smiled.
"If anyone was hurt, I can help them.  The healing light of Oghma is with me."

Having the Golem changed our tactics somewhat.  Without the Golem, I would have, and I'm pretty sure that Myarra would have charged right into the middle of them without too much of a second thought.  With the Golem, we would have allowed them to get between us because the Golem is immune to some of their effects and would have been able to attack from behind enhancing its effectiveness.

Scratching his beardless chin, Khayyim gave Byron's reply some thoughts.

"Hmm... There is value to this proposal, undoutbtedly. Though I would rather say that having the golem gives front line combatants an opportunity to completely block the path towards the back line, enabling them to act freely. Letting the enemy come this close to the back line, especially an enemy that is rather imposing on the weaker stomach, sounds like a precarious gambit."

Turning towards the succubus, he tilted his head and asked:

"Your thoughts, Milady?"

I am fine. Thank you for asking.

Turning to the group,

The golem will not be coming with us. It stays here to protect the doorway back there. We were lucky that it was here with us when the undead appeared. The fight might have turned ugly if it wasn't. But, if my memory serves me right, we usually wait for the enemy to come to us, unless we know we can take them out quickly, or have to take them out quickly.

This encounter we had didn't surprise me at all. Adventurers come in here looking for treasure and perhaps let the undead out. There are many areas where we haven't explored yet, so I suggest we take the time to bury all these bodies so they don't come back as undead and block our path back to the portal.

Roen looked through the doorway at the doomed inside the room with the shattered mirror, then at the undead burning in the hallway. "I don't have anything to carry the bodies with or any tools to dig their graves, but I will do my best to put these people to rest."

In reply to Roenthelm (msg # 18):

Aliana nodded to the man.
"I'll help if I can.  Either with words of blessing, or with hands to carry."

"Keep calling me weak priest." Lennox growls, feeling the target of various comments. Knuckles of both hands tightly clenched on his greatsword. Still, the advice was sound and already something that he was trying to do. For being a front-line combatant, he surely wasn't feeling like one... And that pissed him off almost as much as his rage at Culver. Mixing Steel and Spell was no easy feat, but it was more and more feeling inadequate in the face of things his companions were capable of. Even the new folk were making increasing his feeling of inadequacy.

Roen turned at the words of Lennox, thinking that they were meant for him, but it appeared they were meant for Khayyim. Not wanting a fight between party members, Roen quickly thought of something to make the party chuckle, "So, I heard it's the year 1372? I've been trapped in that mirror for about 40 years. What's new on the outside?"

"I am uninjured. Thank you," Amara replied to the offers for healing. "As for tactics, generally the spellcasters are allowed to cast area damaging spells first and then the combatants move in - with or without the golem. Assuming there is time. If there is not, then the combatants may just move in." She looked at Nolan thoughtfully for a moment, "Bury them where? Are you suggesting going back and forth through the portal several times? Do you really think they will reanimate in a few hours? Otherwise, I would suggest we return with them for burial - that is fine - but right now I suggest we continue to look for the Stone of Balance. Unless you had a different plan?"

Twiggy shrugged at Byron when he was telling of their fighting tactics "Good to know. I will not get in the middle of a good thing.  I will be in the room gatering the rest of the trinkets. I am sure it will take a bit but I will learn when snd where to help." looking in the room he sighs then goes to work not wanting to get in the middle of the heated words but adds "You smarter cleric types know how to stop a body from turning not that I think these will since they have been here for a long while."

The young druid looked at the corpses of the undead with a mixture of sadness, horror and anger. With the discussion of burial, she turned to the group.

"They will be burried or burnt, of that there is no doubt. If they are likely to come back, a pyre may be prudent." she looks back at the bodies with a look, then to the rest. "...but they will not remain as they are. This mission is important, but so is the balance of life and death. These things may slow us, but the fallen deserve respect."

Kali places a hand on Lennox's shoulder with a half smile. "...And maybe save the infighting for later too. We have many more obstacles ahead Lennox....your skills, like the rest of ours, will be tested." From her tone, she wasn't condescending or taking side, just pointing out that every person's skills were unique

....and she knew all their skills would be needed to keep them alive

"No one is saying they won't be buried or burned, or that they should not be given final rest," Amara said. "Only that it does not seem necessary nor prudent to do so immediately. They have been waiting for... some time. I see no reason that they can not wait another day or two."

Amara, I disagree with you about waiting a day or two.  I believe it is in our best interests that we take care of these bodies; and as much as I hate to say and do this, I believe the bodies should be burned in a funeral pyre.  Yes our missions on finding the stones of balance and stopping Culver are the most important missions in our lives currently, however taking care of these dead individuals will not delay us too long.

Looking at Twiggy.

Are you done acquiring objects of interest to you?  If so Aliana and I have some work to do if no one else is going to help us.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:56, Fri 28 Oct 2016.

Aliana, the librarian, paused and pursed her lips in thought.
"I've been living in a library up until the last few months, so I might not be the best one to talk about current events, though I have learned a bit of history in that time."

Twiggy went through the bodies making small piles of of goods off of each body, he hoped to find some types of letters or notes about the dragon cult.  Chuckling at Byron "I think I am, not much to my liking but I am sure you will like spending the gold on ale and women just as much as me. I was hoping for some type of Dragon Cult notes or items that could guide us but noting yet.  Here, let me give you a hand making making the pyre. "  the halfling then began pulling closer bodies together and when he couldnt pull the heavier ones he began gathering wood.

Twiggy, I'm not going to spend the gold on women.  I'm just going to spend it on ale preferably some good drawven ale if I can find it.  Looking at Myarra and Kali, and teasing them some in good fun.  I'm sure I might buy some good elven wine for Aliana and Amara if that is what they like to drink.

No, I have a strange feeling about this place now. These doors haven't been opened in a long time and undead may be a somewhat common encounter in this haunted place, but I want to make sure our way is open if we need to travel these halls in the future. Finding poor souls and taking their valuables, but leaving them until we have time to bury them is not acceptable this time. I will have the golem dig holes outside and we will give all of them a proper burial, even if some of them are cultists or undead.

With that said, Nolan casts a spell: Tenser's Floating Disk

Anyone who wants to help me load the bodies, please place them on here and follow me outside. Those of you who wish to continue to look for the Balance Stone, be careful.

I help by putting the bodies in the spot indicated by Nolan.

Kali nods at the support of Byron and Nolan and starts loading up bodies on the disk with a slight sniff. For the first time in the whole trip, you see no nervousness or tension about her surroundings....just a calm focus. Kali looks at Byron with a slight smile....the man was a suprise to her, and though she had fun picking on him, she did like the man.

Nolan, on the other hand, was a mystery to the girl. He was smart, but seemed distant at times.

Kali shrugged away the thoughts as she done the grizzly work

While this happens, the panther slowly pads the hallway, clearly anxious...sneaking some looks at Kali.

....and Byron.

Without a word, Roen helps load the bodies upon the magical disc. He didn't know what a "Balance Stone" was and figured that the stone wasn't going anywhere and could wait until the poor souls who died here got a proper burial.

Lennox frowns, but doesn't say another word. Once he's able to, he rises and moves away from the noxious smell.

Twiggy now helps drag the bodies to the disc not complaining about bringing the bodies to open air"So Byron, you are not going to spend your gold on women, but you will buy Kali and Myarra drinks with gold though. Ummmm, you do realize they are women right? I know you are older but if you would like me to have the talk with you about what makes a person a man or woman, I can. The birds and the bees lesson is very important in a mans life.   The halfling really hopes he has a good sense of humor as he picks on the large fighter since he can easily be ripped in two by him.  It is nice to joke and talk as the sight and smell is horrid. Lennox may have the right idea but Twiggy works on.

"I'm going to like this group." Roen said with a chuckle

"We have plane touched people," pointing to himself, Myarra and Lennox

"Several humans, a couple elf maidens and a Halfling. I'll bet if we tried to walk into a town, we wouldn't get past the front gates!" Roen laughed as he loaded bodies upon the magical disc

Byron chuckles at Twiggy.  Ling, I think you need your hearing checked.  I know a lot more about the birds and the bees than you think from growing up on a farm.

I smile at the big panther as I see him watching over Kali and me and whisper to him.  Easy big guy, I won't do anything to hurt Kali.  She's a really good girl.

Once all the bodies are properly searched, Myarra helps the others load them up.

"Among my people, the dead are treated somewhat differently.  Old age, injuries, and illness each took their share.  So after the rites were spoken, the bodies were taken away and stripped of their flesh, which was fed to the sand lizards.  And the bones were powdered and released into the next sand storm.  After a minimum of one year, the lizards were slain and a banquet held so that the spirits of the dead could find a home among the tribe, and our ancestors would always continue to live with us and provide us with wisdom and protection.

The idea of burying dead made no sense, the wind would just bring them back.  And we had very little wood, so burning them would have been impossible."

She looks over the now much larger group.  Roenthelm was right that they were quite diverse.  But she felt that was only for the good, as long as their opinions weren't too unwavering.  She'd met a paladin once.  Nice woman, but totally inflexible when it came to dealing with other people's property.

"But given that we don't know any of these people, and burying them would take far too long, I would think that a funeral pyre would be the best way to go.  We're highly unlikely to set the forest on fire."

Sister Aliana nodded, though with some reluctance, to Myarra.
"I have no problem working a shovel to help out the dead, but you're probably right.  A pyre is more practical, especially with the possibility of more undead in the works. "

The bodies are stripped of their valuables and loaded upon the magical disc for transport outside. Instead of digging holes, which would take quite a bit of time, a funeral pyre seemed to be the best bet to dispose of the bodies. When the first disc of bodies is unloaded outside, firewood is easily collected to build a pyre. While that is happening, the rest of the bodies are collected from down below.

Two things happen.

One. While collecting firewood from around the ruins of Lyran's Hold, party members find the waystone to this area. There is also a spinning stone on a pedestal near it that is being impeded by a large oak tree. Over unknown decades, a tree grew up and impeded this stone from spinning smoothly. Tree and rock are fighting and rock is currently winning. You have found a Stone of Balance.

Two. After the last of the bodies were unloaded outside and the Golem was taken back to it's place to guard the hallway, party members come back to go up the long flight of stairs, but something strange happens. The Wall of Water at the "T" intersection next to the Wall of Fire lowers, revealing a room inside with a pedestal holding a beautiful, fist-sized, blue Sapphire gem.

You all meet at the entrance to the ruins to discuss your discoveries.

Main Game Map is updated

In reply to Big Boss (msg # 40):

Looking at the tree and stone of balance.

OOC: How badly is the tree impeding the stone of balance?  Can we restore the spinning stone of balance to spin freely without destroying the tree?

Turning to look at Kali.
Kali?  Can you use the same spell on this tree that you tried on the door inside?  I don't want to cut the tree down if we can just sort of move it out of the way of the stone.  Allowing it to spin freely should help with stabilizing the way stones.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:17, Mon 31 Oct 2016.

Twiggy saw everyones interest in the stone and had to ask "So what is it these things do?"

They keep the magic in balance so the waystones don't malfunction. But, I'm wondering why the wall of water in the ruins dropped to reveal a gleaming gem on a pedestal? I detected no magic in the area anymore, except for the pedestal. That just screams trap to me.

Twiggy nods "It does, but that is why you have a pet golem to go in after things like that.  If not I can give it a try and get that gem.  It has been decades since I have put my skills to the test."

In reply to Twiggy Flinch (msg # 44):

Remember what happened the last time you put your "skills" to the test.  Deliberately being sarcastic over the word skills.

Amara decided not to speak about what was done with the dead - or rather, usually the dying - in her culture. It was closer to Myarra's culture - but with a lot more screaming, usually.

She was chagrined to find the stone of balance outside while collecting deadwood for a fire. She had not helped with the bodies, but she did help with the wood gathering. She turned to Kalliyan, but Byron had already asked her if she could do anything, so there was little more that would be of use for Amara to add. So she didn't. Instead she looked closely at the tree and rock, wondering if some of the magic of the stone might have been transferred to the tree from their long-standing relationship.

She went with the others to see what else there was to see in the Hold, although really, they had now found the object for which they were searching. "So you see no magic on the gem itself? What kind on the pedestal?" Amara asked Nolan. She could look herself easily, but why cast a spell when someone else had?

Kali looked at the tree, biting her lip slightly as she looks at it with a slightly turned head. At Byron's question, she places a hand on her hip. "Until I try, I can't truely answer, but in theory....yes, it would work. The tree is natural, so should work, but I don't know how the stone has altered things..." She left the question hanging as Raieylan padded over to the Druid. Kali absently scratched his neck as she looked at it. She turns to the others. "If you want me to try, I will."

As to the wall of water, she listens to Nolan with a smile. "That gem, to be in there alone would have some value would be significant...and I don't mean gold. If it's trapped, even more so." She looks back to the room. "As to radiating magic, it is possible to hide that as you know. If you feel your going to try for it, either wait for all of us or be sure your prepared. I myself would like to get the stone first"

In reply to Kalliyan (msg # 47):

I guess trying is going to be the best way to find the proper solution to the issue with the stone and tree then.  I wonder what other effects a free spinning stone would have on the immediate area. Byron says more to himself than Kali.

A bit out of her depth, Sister Aliana waited for a chance to help as she and her friends worked out what was happening

"A stone like that would go a long way to helping the poor in town that can't adventure like us. Does anyone have any clue who it might belong to?"

Twiggy sticks his tongue out at Byron questioning his "skills" and tries to pay attention to the tree and stone. When questioned who the gem belongs to the halfling just muttered "Us"

A gem like that is used for something other than spending. I'm sure we'll get enough coin from the equipment we stripped off the dead bodies. I'm just trying to figure out why the pedestal was radiating necromancy. I'm wondering if that's where the undead came from?

As for the stone being hindered by the tree branch, well, I'll leave that up to Kalliyan. Normally, I'd just say cut down the tree, but I have a feeling that's not an option now.

Amara nodded to Kali. "I think it would be best if you tried it. For the stone to work properly, it is my understanding that it needs to remain where it is - which means the tree needs to move."

She felt a shiver up her spine at Nolan's words. "Items that radiate necromancy rarely do anything beneficial. That makes me desire to destroy it. What are you thinking, Nolan?"

Khayyim had helped his comrades dispose of the bodies, speaking prayers over the funeral pyres, then went to inspect the stone and gem in turn.

"Nolan, I must admit I'm at a loss regarding the gem's function. Do you have any idea?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:09, Thu 03 Nov 2016.

Having had little to no interest in these Stones of Balance, Lennox turns his attentions towards this fist sized sapphire...


OOC:
05:40, Today: Secret Roll: Lennox rolled 17 using 1d20+05.  Spellcraft.
05:39, Today: Secret Roll: Lennox rolled 17 using 1d20+06.  Knowledge: Arcane.

Odds are his curiosity will prompt him to try and touch it if not stopped.

Kali nodded at the others, comfortable but also nervous that her friends had such faith in her. If it was under normal circumstances, she could have altered the tree without hesitation, but she didn't know how the stone altered things.

Placing her spear on the ground, she looked at her panther companion, who issued a low growl, and with him at her side, walked to the tree and placed a hand on it. Closing her eyes, she begins speaking in a musical language, almost haunting as she channels her inner power

The pile of bodies is put upon the pyre of wood collected from around the area. There is enough firewood to make 5 funeral pyres. Anyways, the fire is started and each of the "priests" say their prayers for the dead, hoping they have a final safe journey to their deity.

Kali speaks in a musical language while she touched the tree impeding the spinning stone, her hand glowing as the ground shudders for a few seconds as the tree she touched begins to "move away" from its original growing path. The creaking of the tree sounds scary to those who don't know better, but Kali smiles as she finishes her spell and sees that the tree is indeed on a different path now as the "Stone of Balance" spins free. It doesn't take much time to clean off the surface of the dirt and leaves.

The Stone of Balance is 3' x 3' granite with all sorts of magical writing on it. It spins on a flat piece of granite 5' x 5' that also has magical writing all over it. The sigils start to glow, now that the Stone is able to move freely at its normal speed.

Myarra hangs around in the background, not uninterested in the magics being examined, but rather unwilling to get herself involved.  Her upbringing among the Chiotan taught her to distrust wizardly magics and while exposure to the outer world has taught her that a lot of those misgivings are superstition, she can't help but feel queasy around things like this.  Especially necromancy magic.  Best to leave it up to those that feel comfortable with it.

In the meantime she simply keeps guard, watching all approaches to make sure nothing sneaks up on them.

Nice work Kali.  Watching the stone spin freely.  That's one of four.  Working correctly now.  Or so I believe. 

As to the sapphire I suggest we leave it alone.  For some reason I get a sense of evil about it if we were to try and take it.  Giving Nox a look similar to the one I gave Nolan about not doing what I suggest before thinking things through.

Roen kept watch on the funeral pyre outside. He felt sorry for the people that became undead. He thought that people should die when it was their time, not turn into something that was in between. Periodically adding a branch here and there to keep the fire up, Roen also made sure the fire was safe, that it wouldn't get out of control. If anyone else was out there doing the same thing, Roen will chat with them to get to know his new friends, but if not, he'll just keep watch.

The pedestal is radiating magic, not the gem. Perhaps if somebody tries to steal the gem, the pedestal does something? With necromancy involved, that means death magics. I wonder why that wall of water lowered now? We've been through here several times and that thing never changed. What's different now?

In reply to Nolan (msg # 61):

Probably freeing the stone of balance and/or destroying the undead along with breaking two mirrors.

Byron replies in a very thoughtful tone after a couple of minutes of deep thought.

Amara nodded respectfully to Kalliyan. "Very nice," she commented to the druid, before returning her attention the the sapphire on the pedestal.

"I agree. We changed many things that we had not changed before. Also, we brought the golem here, which I do not believe we have done before. It could be any of those things - or a combination of them.

How powerful is the magic, Nolan?"

I have some skills in necromancy, but this is well above my capabilities. Probably a lot more than I would want to be capable of. I seem to remember that there used to be bodies in front of these walls, but they are gone now. And with this place being the former stronghold for a Lich, I'm thinking that this pedestal and the undead we just fought have something in common.

But, with the stone of balance being restored in this area and the bodies currently burning outside, I think our mission is done here. I know that gem is worth a lot of money, but I don't want to risk any of us, or the golem, until I know more on what it does. We have more than enough coin with the magic stuff we just got from the bodies.

"A wise approach. Probably this gem is but a trap for the foolish and the greedy. How about we go and uncover what's beyond this wall of water?" Khayyim suggested.

Twiggy watches the gem but has seen other greedy people go after items and did not live to tell the tale. He doesnt argue but looks cat Kali instead "So how are you with growing carrots if you are that good with trees."  It was then that he noticed Lennox heading in the gem room to play with the gem "Ummm, why does he get to play with the necromanic gem?"

Well, it appears that only Roenthelm cares enough about the poor souls of the dead burning in the funeral pyre as the rest of the group are at the "T" intersection, looking North into the area that used to have a Wall of Water that went across the hallway. Now that it's down, the party wonders what the gem on the Evil pedestal might be for as Lennox wanders to the doorway to inspect the gem. He scans the room and notices that the floor is dirty with bits of bones here and there, along with scraps of old clothing, so it's very probable that the undead the party fought earlier came from here. The pedestal is 4x4x4 and bluish in color, like sea water and is located right in the middle of the room. The Blue Sapphire is located right in the middle of the pedestal and it looks beautiful. Fist sized, but squarish, Lennox looks at the stone and just shakes his head at the possible value of the thing. He approaches the pedestal and was about to touch the stone, when Twiggy complained.....

Sister Aliana nodded.
"I'm fine with leaving well enough alone."

Because it appears he isn't smart enough to leave well enough alone.  But if you want to go ahead. I'll make you pay later when I save your life again.

Drawing my sword and looking in all directions for the trouble I know is about to happen.

Roen stared into the fires of the funeral pyre and hoped that the people would be at rest now. It seemed pretty peaceful with the occasional crack of the fire and watching an ember float into the sky before dissipating.

Amara looked around, realizing they had left Roenthelm alone with the pyre. That made no sense in a dangerous place like this. "Whatever we do, we should do it together. I'm going back to the pyre for now - that might be the best place to discuss things. But I know of no reason that we need to explore this place now that we have found and restored the Stone of Balance." With that, she turned and headed back outside.

Lennox, don't be greedy. If the gem is still there when we come through here again, then we can call it fate. The orb is worth 100x that gem and is way more important.

Twiggy leans up against the doorway frame and crosses his arms watching Lennox "Hold on Nolan this may be fun let's watch the show before we go back to the fire pyre.  Go ahead Lennox, we are all watching and waiting."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 21:15, Thu 10 Nov 2016.

Myarra watches the antics around the gem for a few minutes while everyone argues about magic and loot, then drifts back to the outside.

"Roenthelm" she says as she emerges from the entrance to the ruins.  She's come to understand that stating the blatantly obvious is expected here in what passes for, so-called, civilization.  The man perfectly well knows what his name is, so what's the point?

"Fire dying down?"  Another pointless statement. <sigh>.

She takes a seat on the stone steps, laying her sword beside her, and looks out over the forest.

"The others have found some kind of gem on a cursed pedestal.  They're arguing over whether or not to chance trying to take it.  I got bored after Nolan started explaining necromancy magic and figured I should get some air."

"Yes, the fire is going down and with that, the poor souls caught up in this cursed place will finally find some peace."

Roen smiled and sat down next to Myarra. The sight of them sitting there talking might look odd to some people as Myarra looked to be a powerfully built warrior with her gear and Roen, a man in rags with a smile on his face.

"I used to be interested in treasures like your friends down there, but I just give the money to the poor now. They need it more than I do. Ilmater protect them, please."

Twiggy, maybe you should try first then?  How about I toss you over to the pedestal?

Chuckling as I put my sword up to grab Twiggy and toss him if he wants.

Twiggy just shrugs "Lennox looks like he has things under control. Its not like the rogue should be doing stuff like that anyway."

Amara joined Roenthelm and Myarra outside. She moved to sit near a flowering bush. A hummingbird flitted out from the folds of her dress-robe to feed. But she did not make any effort to join their conversation.

"An Aasimar, a Tiefling and a Drow walked into a tavern to order a drink." Roen chuckled "This group is either very tolerant of each other or the lands have finally come to terms with each other and declared world peace?" more chuckles "So, what's the plan? I have no clue what's going on. I've been in that mirror for 40 years, if I heard the year correctly."

Kali, a little dazed by the magic used to free the stone of balance, stood looking at it hypnotically, and was snapped out of it by the talk from the others of the stone. The theory that the undead were trapped in the room and were released when the wall came down was sound.

...but, what then was behind the wall of fire?

She crinkled her brow and stood next to Byron...the human somehow had a calming effect on her, yet he also made her uneasy.

She bit her lip. "Nolan....if the undead that attacked us was behind the wall of water, would you think it a sound reasoning that something similar...or worse could be behind the fire wall?" she looked down at Raieylan who sat at her side.

"Perhaps this gem is a key...and if as you said the pedistal is radiating necromancy aura, people who touch the gem and turned." She was more thinking out loud now.  Her cautious attitude could have stemmed from her uncomfortable feeling being enclosed had began to set back in after the horror of the room and the battle.

That is a possibility that I don't want to think about right now. Fire creatures will just fix the golem, but the rest of us could get hurt dealing with them. As for the gem being a key, I honestly don't know. It could be a key or a spell component. I have read that some powerful spells require gems of high value and purity and with this complex being the home to Lyran the lich, I would assume he would use undead to guard such a treasure.

Myarra nods to Amara as the drow woman joins them, but doesn't call out to her, respecting her privacy.

"The world most certainly has not become any more understanding or accepting, I give you my word on that.  But we're not so much a group as a collection of individuals that have drifted together over time. Nolan and I are all that's left of the original people collected by Mystra herself.  Everyone else came together rather haphazardly after that in ones and twos.  You batch are just the latest.  And given the forces we're up against, I'm happy to have anyone that stands on the side of Good ... even Good-ish ... on our side.

So, as you know, we're stuck in the middle of this tree infested wasteland, brimming with dragons and cultists.  There's a set of magical rocks that let people move from one point to another.  But they're controlled by the Stones of Balance," she pauses to nod to the newly free-spinning rock.  "Which aren't all that balanced at the moment.  So our first task is to find and restore them.  Then we just have to simply destroy the cultists, a medusa, legions of orcs, and a bunch of green dragons.  And it's all to protect a bunch of innocent people in a nearby village." She pauses again for a second.  "At least most of us are trying to protect them.  Others have their own personal reasons.  And as long as that means they're going to protect the villagers as a side-effect ... again, that's fine by me."

She waits another few seconds, staring at the dying fire.

"So, fine sir, what brings you to this fine establishment?"

Listening to Kali and Nolan talk about the stone.  Could the gem be used as both a spell component and a trap to lure unsuspecting people to make them into undead guardians?

Having done nothing but approach and examine the sapphire, Lennox bristles silently at the insults. He bites his tongue, and continues his inspection. "Some people learn from books, others by doing." He mumbles to himself. Risky? Absolutely. Foolhardy? Maybe. Didn't make him stupid though. he shakes his head to himself and addresses the others still around:

"Could be tied to that... Or it could correlate to an Elemental Sphere rather than just an archetype of guardians or school of magic. Would still fit with the relationship to the Fire Wall. Possibly the Force Wall as well. If so, maybe these are keystones? Acting as fuel for defenses... Or, maybe something more nefarious. Elements can be quite succeptible to Balance or lack there of." Contrary to popular opinion, Lennox's intelligence was far from inferior. While Planar Theory was new to him, he was a quick study and had been intuiting quite a bit since his first observation of Nolan using a Waystone. While that was still beyond him, he's already discerned how to flit through dinensional voids himself as a result. Spellblade's were all but unheard of beyond Elves, and even among them the arts of blending Spell and Steel were rare and risky... Because it WAS an art that was more hands on and less book inspired.

It is a possibility. You never can tell what necromancers are up to. But, the gem isn't magical, the pedestal is. The gem just might be a lure to get somebody to try and take it. A gem that size is quite valuable.



Water and Fire are opposites, so that does make sense. I'm just a bit wary of having to deal with a necromatic elementalist. I think we should leave this alone because the stoned statues of the people back there next to the golem might be harmed.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:07, Sat 12 Nov 2016.

Still casually leaning against the door frame watching Lennox, Twiggy grins at the mans mumbling then nods at his reasoning " Brandobaris favors the bold and Tymora gives luck to the same. You are "doing" great. I am not coming in as why have two people in the same room that possibly is a trap.  Usually I am the one in questionable situations so this is a nice change. " Twiggy just leans on the door but inside is a coiled up spring ready to release and help if anything goes wrong.




09:29, Today: Twiggy Flinch rolled 25 using 1d20+8.  listen.

Twiggy doesn't hear anything out of the ordinary and Lennox doesn't see anything out of the ordinary. Just a beautiful gem begging him to take it.....

"That's quite a story. Myarra was it?" Roen said with a smile "I'm an adventurer, like yourself and I've seen one of the levitating stones before. East of here in an old overgrown garden. I went there looking for herbs and roots for a healing kit I used to help sick farmers outside Soubar. I'm quite familiar with the village of Daak. Anyways, that garden is very dangerous, or was dangerous when I went there. The plants are possessed by demons and I had to leave the place in a hurry without the ingredients I needed. I left and went back to Soubar and joined an adventuring group hired by a merchant who wanted magics out of this place. I figured that I could earn money to buy the ingredients in town with the rewards gained here. We encountered undead here as well and we all were disoriented by the mist inside and I ended up in the room with the mirror with a large pile of belongings on the floor. That was when I got trapped inside the device."

Amara cocked her head at Roenthelm, "Plants possessed by demons? What can they do?"

Nox shrugs. "Whatever. Not the stone I'm here for." And then he turns away from the pedastool and moves to join the bulk of the party.

Twiggy now wants to get the stone for himself but it is the conscensus to leave it alone and that he does.  Losing decades off your life gives you a little perspective. Nodding at Lennox"We will get it on the way out, no need to rush inwhen we can wait.  Something farther in may explain what this is.  So is the funural fire pyre finished and where do we go now?"

OK, we wasted some time here. It's going to be dark soon. Do you all want to keep moving on and sleep in the forest, or do you all want to go back to the wizard tower in Daak and sleep in a bed?

Aliana smiled sheepishly.
"As much as I like forests, I'll have to admit a preference for beds."

I'm ok with either.  However, I think the tower in Daak is safer than out here.

Giving a Kali and Ry a friendly smile.  If you guys want to stay outside I'll join you.

"Whichever one has better food."

Kali looked around the area, and though she loved the forest, she smiled at the others. "My vote is return to the tower....i need to meditate and rest, and though the forest here would be adequate for me, having safety within your tower will assist us all."

She looks at Byron with a smile. "Don't feel obligated to stay outside with me, i have the grumpy old man here....but if you wish to, i always welcome company"

Raieylan lets out a low growl as he looks at Byron, like a protective father watching his daughter...so much so that Byron doesn't know if he's teasing the human, or being serious, but it is clear the panther feels the same as Kali.

Kali lets out a warm laugh as she looks at Raieylan and slaps his flank. "Behave old man....He's given you no reason to earn your distrust."

The panther shakes, but narrows his eyes at Byron as if to say go on....try something, I dare you

In reply to Kalliyan (msg # 96):

Smiling back at Kali then looking over at Ry with a serious face.

The tower is a magical place and while it has wonders that make staying there worthwhile, it also sets me on  edge.  You don't need to worry.  I'm not going to take advantage of her unless that is what she really wants me to do. 

Looking over at Nolan and Nox.

I wonder what restoring one of the stones of balance is going to do the Greens.  Somehow I don't think they are going to like it.  Culver will definitely not like it because it should interfere with his plans to some extent.

I honestly don't know what's going to happen. All we can go is move on and deal with it when it happens. Hopefully, Culver will use the waystone and get killed by the golems I placed at the hub. So, let's go back to the tower for the night and start fresh here tomorrow. With moving all those dead bodies, I'm in need of a good bath.

I would not bet on Culver getting killed by the golems.  I do agree that a bath is a wonderful idea.

"Maybe we can experiment with Amara's questioning technique on the scrying stone..." Nox says thoughtfully.

The group at the gem and pedestal room decide that it would be best to return to the Daak Wizard tower for the night to sleep in beds and get more fresh food. They return outside to gather up Amara, Myarra and Roen, make sure the funeral pyre was going to cause no problems, then return back inside the ruins for the teleporter gate to return them to the Daak Wizard tower.

Twiggy's eyes pop up when a bath is mentioned and he chuckled at Kalliyan and Byron, but wondered how much the panther really understood.  Still trying to understand what it is all these new things do Twiggy skipped up to Nolan to ask about the tower, "Nolan, is this your tower or is it for any wizard to rest."

No, it's not my tower, but I do my best to keep it looking good. It used to be a school until a band of orcs led by a medusa came and killed off most of the town. I was in the tower at the time doing research on a magical item, while everyone else was enjoying the festivities in the village. Amara and I are the only wizard types left in the tower. I don't remember who has been there longer. The three towers have been standing for hundreds of years and they protected the ancient city that's in this forest. I don't think there is anyone alive that knows what's in all of these towers.



That would be up to her.

I think Nox is referring to the way in which Amara was asking the scrying stone a question.  Something about a map or graphical representation as opposed to seeing an actual place or person if I remember correctly.  For whatever reason she wasn't knocked out like everyone else who has tried it or so I've heard.

Looking over at Twiggy.

If you had ever met a druid with an animal companion then you would know that the animal companion understands everything and senses a lot more than us.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:25, Sat 19 Nov 2016.

Twiggy nods at Nolan "Thiswill be interesting, I have never been in a wizards tower before. Maybe I can work on disabling magical devices there, I want to get better at it but can never just practice. "  The halfling eases away a bit from Byron "Hmmmm, that is why she is always talking to the panther instead of you. It is smarter."  Twiggy starts chuckling as he jumps farther away from the human that can crush him with his bare hands.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:18, Sat 19 Nov 2016.

Yeah, every time I have used it, I feel like I've been drained. I don't know why Amara wasn't.



Well, you'll be going to the right place. I will show you a training room in the basement where you can spend hours, if not days, training to your heart's content.

"Giant plants came out of the ground and roots from a moaning tree tried to grab at my legs. I was too quick for them and just fled the area. I figured I could get my healing ingredients from another source."

Myarra trails along with the others as they head back to the wizard's tower.  In a way, it really didn't feel like they'd accomplished all that much for a full day, despite the list of things should could count off.  And they'd successfully found the stupid rock, which was really the main purpose in coming her anyway, so that was that. Fluttering her wings to make them settle better just made her left shoulder ache more.  Frankly, she told herself, she deserved a long hot soak.

Still, she listened to the conversation going on around her, waiting for the moment when they'd start passing through the barriers ... which was always a fun thing to observe for newcomers that lacked the appropriate magic.  "Sounds like work for a druid," she remarks to Roenthelm when he speaks of the moving plants.  "Fortunately, we happen to have one.  I'm sure Kalli will have no problem with anything of the sort.

Now, the important thing.  Once we get into Nolan's accursed tower, are you all more interested in eating, sleeping, or bathing?  Personally, I'm going to wash my face, stuff it, and then fall flat on it for a good eight hours.  But you can pick your own order as you see fit."

Nox looks like he's about to clarify, but whips his head around... Eyes scanning the environment and hands drawing his greatsword clear of it's scabbard with fluid grace. The warrior is quite suddenly on edge, and not paying heed to the conversation around him any longer. "Anyone else hear that?" He asks, fairly confident that no one else was likely to have. A sinking feeling in his gut told him it was real... But had been intended for him alone.

Nox WAS warned that this place was haunted, but maybe he starting to believe it? Either way, Nox may or may not have heard something as the party starts to go through the portal back to Daak one by one, looking around to see if there was anyone calling out to the group.

Note: For the new players Twiggy, Roenthelm and Khayyim, going through the portal is like the portal in Star Gate SG-1 to give you a visual.

Arriving at another basement, Nolan closes the giant Adamantite door behind him. The group is at location 3 on the basement map message 2:

link to a message in this game

Note: Again for the new players Twiggy, Roenthelm and Khayyim, the Wizard tower is like walking through Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies, except there are no ghosts in here.

What you do now is up to the people who take you through the magical barricades.

In reply to Big Boss (msg # 110):

I look at Nolan and Amara.  I guess we should see if our other big cat has been paid a visit by her greenness.  Byron looks sullen at the thought of one them in here again reeking havok.

Twiggy just takes it all in as he goes through the portal and then enjoys just looking at the sights. He is even more excited about a practice room to disarm magical traps.

Nox trails, preoccupied by the voice and its words. He tries to tell himself it was just a ghost or spirit playing with him. That's a far simpler answer than the other suspicions rattling around his brain. He thinks back, trying to recall specifically what rooms in which his name had been used...

Kali couldn't help but feel more comfortable even in the tower, and smiled. She playfully patted Raieylan on the back, who purred, clearly more relaxed in the setting. He even playfully nudged Byron as he walked for the exit and outdoors.

Kali looked at the others. "If you need me, I will be resting outside by the big birch tree." With that, the Druid walks outside with a smile.

Pats Ry playfully on his side as he nudges me.

I wonder if the tree was interferring with Amara's question on where the stone of balance was.  It does make sense because the stone was not moving as freely as it was supposed to be.  But somehow I feel there is more to Lyran's Hold and we may end up back there before this is all over.

This message was last edited by the player at 02:23, Wed 23 Nov 2016.

Lyran was a great wizard who turned evil by turning himself into a lich. The tower transformed into those twisted ruins you traveled, but adventurers like us managed to kill him, but the place will probably be evil forever.



I'm sure Ashara will be around shortly. For those of you who don't know, evil can't get into this tower. Ashara is a displacer beast and has been raised since she was a kitten. She is one of the guardians of the tower.

Myarra likes talking while traveling through the portals between the towers. Mostly because then she can pretend she's not being using accursed magics to fling her poor body through space and time.  She's also rather amused by the way Byron is hurling himself, ever so discretely at Kalli.

"So I said, "Cat got your spleen?".  And at the same time, Sule spit it out on the sand before Atrode raider chief.  And that's when Ragnar said I couldn't handle the diplomacy anymore."

She looks around as Nolan closes the security doors, keeping anyone else from Lyran's hold from getting into their tower.

"We should probably all meet up in the kitchens to talk about what we're going to do tomorrow," she says, looking around at the group.  "That's assuming any of you want to join up with us.  Nobody is required to.  You can all walk out the front door and try to catch up on your lives if you'd prefer.

But if you're willing to stay, there's plenty of bunks to choose from, the food is fantastic, and the bath is to die for.  So, my humble suggestion is that you find a bunk to stash your stuff, and then get get cleaned up.  Nolan or Lennox can show you where the men's bath is, if you're interested."

At this point, she's singularly uninterested in what Satin is up to.  They'd payed back their debt to the green dragon, and were well shot of her.  Not that she really believed Satin was done with them, but there were only so many things you could worry about.

"Just for conversation, my vote is to head to the gardens to the east and fix the stone there.  Kalli can handle any plant issues, and Roenthelm's actually been there."

"I could try the scrying stone again, if we have any other burning questions. But I suggest we first set the Balance Stones in their proper positions. But I also do not know why it did not harm me, and do not know that it would not were I to use it again. It could have been how I phrased the question, what I am, or that it doesn't shock people the 100th time it's used or anything else for as much as I have been able to determine."

She helped anyone who needed it to travel through the magical barriers that only allowed magic users to move freely through doorways.

She listened to Roenthelm's descriptions of the plants, wondering if they were possessed or simply animated. Possessed would likely be much more difficult to deal with than animated. She nodded to him, acknowledgement of his answer. "I agree with Myarra - - tomorrow we should go to the eastern Balance Stone."

In reply to Amara (msg # 118):

"I too would like to try the Scrying Stone again. Odds are that Culver has not been idle, it would behoove us to keep tabs at the very least even if we cannot discern his immediate location."

After a quick bath and quick dinner I get Amara to lead me outside to join Ry and Kali.

Along the way I talk with Amara.

I really think it has something to do with the way in which you questioned to scrying stone.  Most likely it was because you asked about non-living things or because you asked about a graphical representation.  I would suggest that Nox or Nolan try asking to see where Culver is  on a map in relationship to this tower.  While not perfect it would probably give us a good idea.

Roen looked on with awe at the insides of the wizard tower. He'd seen it from the outside while he was in Daak years ago, but he didn't remember it being this big and luxurious. A part of him still thinks about the days where he would like such grandeur, but now Roen just thinks how such a place could be used for the poor, since it appears to be empty. Talk of the old garden breaks him from his day dreaming,



"I'll do what I can. I'm pretty sure the gardens have changed since the last time I was there."

I'm sure everyone will figure out what they want to do. Me, on the other hand, will be going to my lab to finish up on some projects.

Nolan takes the stairs to the second floor of the tower and disappears.

"You are welcome to use it," Amara replied to Lennox. "I suggest you do so tonight. If it does knock you out, that will minimize the time wasted."

She nodded acknowledgement to Byron, "You may be right. Or wrong. It will take time and experimentation to determine for certain."

She paused for a moment, looking from one man to the next. "You have a hatred for this man as dark as a spider's venom. Why? It can not be just because he was part of the cult."

"Until the moment he siezed that orb, my pursuit of his death was strictly business. My mission was to infiltrate, undermine, sabotage, and if possible eradicate his cell... Culver's continued existance is thus my responsibility-- as is every vile deed he commits before I can perform my duty in placing a blade through his heart or cleaving head from shoulder. I may not be the one conducting those actions, but my failure enables them.

"As soon as he took up a Dragon Orb though? That's when he made it personal. I like dragons, sure enough... But I value Free Will most of all. His declared intention to deprive ANYONE of that? That in and of itself would earn him my wrath." This isn't Nox's first citation of his championing free will, nor an interesting sense of duty and obligation... Combined with his habit for namedropping Belial as a sentence enhancer of choice on multiple occasions, and the references to inhuman heritage are surely starting to paint a picture for those attentive enough to such detail.

"If I'm going to brave the orb, I'll likely need clerical aid should my theory regarding your questioning techniques not pan out. That thing's got a helluva toll beyond just forced-nap time... " Despite those enforced naps, and having imbibed a restoration potion, Nox could still feel the faint drain from previous attempts.

Amara, I hope I'm right regarding the scrying stone.  You are correct that I'm making a wild guess as to why it didn't affect you as it has the others.   I have no love of evil dragons.  However, evil must exist for good to thrive or vice versa depending on your point of view.  Culver, wants to eradicate good as we understand the concept so that his way of thinking prevails.  Should he succeed then for a very long time evil will hold great sway over the world.  That makes him dangerous not only to good beings and creatures, but to the very planet itself.

Byron smiles at Amara as they reach the entrance to the tower.

Thank you for escorting me to the entrance and speaking with me.

Twiggy is intrigued with the tower and tells the others "I am with you all as long as we get to take down the dragon cult. I will meet up with you later, I want to go practice opening magical wizard tower doors."  Twiggy then walked on wide eyed turning door handles looking for one that is locked.  He walks until he finds the stairs and tries to go to the basement.

"I wish you luck," Amara said to Lennox.

"You are welcome," She replied to Byron. "I have heard the same saying, but I am not convinced of it. There is hardship without evil - droughts, fires, floods. Good can thrive there as well."

Kali decides that she would rather stay outside near a local Birch tree, feeling more comfortable away from the magical tower with her companion Raieylan. She spots Rufus and Ashara not too far off near another tree, clearing out dead/overgrown brush to help with the village's defenses. The Displacer Beast is still a strange sight to her. Off in the distance, several more villagers are doing the same thing. Eventually, Byron comes out to visit her...

-------------------
Nolan heads on upstairs to work on one of his many projects and probably won't be seen unless somebody goes up there. A couple of his items are ready for use and he smiles at the thought of it.

-------------------
Lennox is interested in using the "Crystal" again to find Culver, which sparks Khayyim's interest. Also, the fact that Lennox might need medical attention draws some confusion from the priest.

-------------------
Twiggy is shown where the training room is located. (See new thread.)while Roenthelm wanders around to take in the sights.

-------------------
Lastly, after Amara helps Byron out the front door so he could meet up with Kali, she joins Myarra and Aliana in the wonderful baths. Moving nasty, dirty, dead bodies makes anyone want to take a bath.

Kali watched as Rufus and Ashara worked, determined to aide them as Byron walked up to the woman. Smiling, Kali offered the human a pear.


"Interested in helping with defences while the others bathe?"

That's why I came out here.  Have you had a chance to speak with Ashara yet?  Taking the offered pear.  Thank you and thank you for helping restore the stone of balance to it's proper operation.

Aliana cleaned herself thoroughly, the novelty of her exciting adventure giving way to the horrors of the day.   She was more subdued than normal, and concentrating on getting some rest after cleaning herself.

Nox takes the time to explain to the priest the scrying stone's side effects-- notably the rendering unconscious, the scalding of palms sufficiently potent to bypass his inborn tolerance to heat and fire, and worst of all... The bone numbing drain that tapped every facet of his physical being. The later took time and/or copious drinking of restorative potions to heal the physical and spiritual damages. With a properly prepared priest though, blessings could be plied to mitigate the burns and ability damage MUCH more effectively.

NPC'd

Khayyim listens to what Lennox has to say about the crystal and what it does to people. He doesn't understand why somebody would want to use such a device, but that is their business.

"OK, I assume that if I see you smoking, it's time to pull you away from this 'device'?" Khayyim asked "I am ready."

Kali shook her head at Byron. "I just saw them now...and no need for thanks, you will need all the strength you can muster." The Druid smiled as she walked over to Rufus and Ashara.

"We're back. I don't want to spend time in the stuffy tower, so what can we do to help?"

If there's one place in a hundred miles that Myarra truly feels comfortable in, it's the bath in the wizard's tower.  Sure, it's magical, and therefore an abomination ... but she's willing to let that slide.  Spreading her wings a few feet to the side gives her all the buoyancy she needs to keep from drowning ... growing up in the desert never required her to learn to swim.  Her face remains above the steaming waters, while the rest of her skin soaks in the heat from a few inches below, and without having to scrub, all the blood and gore just magically (literally) evaporates.

While Amara and Aliana are cleaning up as well, the bath is so large as to make it feel like she's totally alone.  Which is fine with her as well.  She has nothing against speaking with the other two women if they have something to say, but frankly, she's been surrounded by far too many people today, most of them strangers.  She's never done particularly well with strangers.  And it's nice sometimes to just relax in silence and solitude.

Of course there's also the fact that she can't leave the room unless one of the two come with her.  It's not the first time she's contemplated studying some clerical magic, just to see if she can pick up enough to get her through the damn doors without breaking her nose.

"Oh, Hello again. Right now, we're just clearing overgrown and dead brush so nobody can hide behind it. That way, we'll see anyone coming from the forest from a long distance. I know Druids like the earth to remain natural and all but we need all the advantages we can get. We'll be done for the day in an hour or so. Dinner time."

I help Rufus and the villagers finish their work for the day.

Roen wandered through the halls of the Wizard tower, feeling sad for the place not being filled with students. To him, this whole place was a waste with such few people taking advantage of it. Empty beds, empty dining hall, empty washing room. After being told how to properly work the bath, Roen enjoyed that part of the tower, though. He hadn't had a bath in 40 years and with all the bodies that were moved to the funeral pyre, Roen just felt he needed a bath. It also helped with what clothes he had left as well. After his bath, Roen decided to wait in the dining hall. He knew everyone would eventually go there.

In reply to Khayyim Vedim (msg # 133):

Nox makes a small sidestop, looking for a map and/or implements for writing, as Amara had before. He'd been thinking about this ever since the recounting of her success after all.

"All magic has a price, and if a cause is deemed so worthy... " He shrugs. "Here goes..." With that Nox places two hands on the scrying stone, and begins the experiment-- repeating the command that Amara had used unscathed verbatum: "Using a map, show me a graphical representation of the locations of all stones of balance used by the portal in the library guarded by Hanns the librarian." It wasn't the information he wanted, but it was the only way to prove if the success had been in the questioning... Or by something else unique to Amara... And from there he could either tweak to target the Dragon Orb... Or ask Amara to try for Culver herself.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:41, Mon 05 Dec 2016.

Just like before, Lennox feels like he's up in the air, but this time he's asked for FOUR locations. He definitely gets the ride of his life as he immediately descends to the spot near Lyran's Hold, which the party has already found, then he's up in he air again and flying to the North where he sees a Gigantic Head of a stone statue in a lake? Then he flies off to a little hut with a garden where the stone appears to be used as a paverstone, then the last area is in an old, overgrown garden where he sees a wicked looking tree with what appears to be people hung from the branches. Then the visions stop as Khayyim is pulling Lennox off the Crystal, smoking as he is gently lowered to the ground unconscious.

After making sure all of those who wanted to go somewhere were able to pass through the appropriate portals, Amara headed to the bath. She lowered herself into the magically warmed waters, taking several deep breaths. At first, she didn't say anything, enjoying the warmth and getting clean.

After a while, she asked, "So do you think Lennox will succeed in his scrying using a different tactic?"

Sister Aliana looked at Amara and shrugged unhappily
"I'm not sure.  This stuff is way beyond me.  I wish I could be more help."

"None of us is certain," Amara replied. "I'm asking what you think."

...sleeps...

Kali goes about the busness of helping the village. She was a Druid, but knew that life came in all forms, so she removed dead plants as she sent the panther to scout.

NPC'd

Khayyim checked over the unconscious Lennox and remembering that the Crystal "drained" the user, the priest cast a spell on Lennox before picking him up and walking to the men's quarters to put the man in a bed to sleep it off. After that, Khayyim heads to the Dining hall to get something to eat. He spots Roenthelm and sits next to the man.

"Roenthelm, Yes? I know we've had a busy day today and I'm not sure if we introduced ourselves. My name is Khayyim, Priest of Kelemvor."

Myarra can hear the rumble of Aliana and Amara's conversation through the water.  It makes the words both echo and feel far away at the same time.  But she can still make out the words and has to smile at the thought.

"Five gold says he catches on fire and has to be pried off."

She swirls her hands in the water to either side, casually drifting along the the side of the bath.  The magical waters have already stripped out all the sweat and blood from her hair, making it spread out around her like a curtain ... something it never does when it's dry, no matter how much time she wasted trying to brush it.

"Maybe it's because you're an elf, Amara.  Maybe it just doesn't like humans.  Frankly, I think that damn thing is dangerous and we really need to stop playing around with it as if it were a toy.  Use it when we really need to, sure, but not for every question that pops in to someone's mind."

"I agree it should be used sparing," Amara stated. "I will not take that bet, but I do wish him luck. If it is something else, then others will be forever requesting me to scry for them."

She didn't really care about naked bodies in general, but sometimes in the bath, she would find herself unconsciously staring at Myarra's wings. Myarra was clearly meant to be a creature of the sky, yet usually walked on the earth. But then, the drow were built for the bowels of the earth, not the surface. It was interesting to her both how different she and Myarra were, and yet how they both chose their own path so different from what would have been expected of their physiology.

As I work with Kali, Rufus and the others I lose sight of Ry.

Kali, where's your big body gaurd?

More concern in my voice than teasing, but there is some of both.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:00, Thu 08 Dec 2016.

"So ..." Myarra begins, wondering exactly how to broach this.  It's a very sensitive and taboo subject.  "Amara.  I was just wondering ... "  Damn this was hard.  It gave her a little more respect for Cthon's fumbling first (pathetic) attempts to seduce her.

"Do you think there's any chance I could be taught how to use magic?"

Fortunately the water hid the embarrassed blush that rushed up her cheeks.  The shades of her parents would be mortified.  Actually having sex in the middle of camp during suppertime would be more socially acceptable.

"Nothing big.  I don't need to turn invisible or blast things with fireballs.  Just enough to be able to walk through the doors here without an escort.

I'd considered asking Aliana ... and I do look to Mystra.  But I'm not sure I ... you know ... revere her enough to pledge my life to her ... not ... in that way.  So I figured maybe just a little arcane magic would do the trick."

Amara raised an eyebrow. She'd never thought of Myarra as someone who would want to use magic, but she could see the point. Living somewhere where you could not move around freely on your own would be difficult. But Myarra wasn't a stereotypical big dumb warrior. "Yes, I think you could learn arcane magic. Who knows? Whatever blood runs in your veins it isn't the standard sort - if you learned to focus yourself, you might even be able to awaken innate magic of some sort."

Kali wipes her brow and looms at Byron. "He's still a wild animal, and he spent a lot of time with us in that keep, so I sent him scouting" The woman caught his playful tone, but also caught his concern for the panther. Kali hadn't known a lot of humans, just those of the Druid order and the rare times she had come to the village. Most seemed caught up in their own concerns, but Byron had forged a bond with herself, and Raieylan to some degree, fairly quick. She admired that

....she really liked that.

She playfully flipped her hair back with a smile. "Don't worry....he's not far. Probably looking at you know thinking how best to take you down."

She bends over and clears the path she had been working on, but spoke to Byron with her back turned. "...but what makes you think I need his help?"

I'm pretty sure he's already done that about 20 times since we've been out here working.

Teasing both of them by deliberately looking around for the big cat in a very wary fashion.

I'm sure you don't need his help if it really mattered.  But the two of you seem to be closer than husband and wife or parent and child or brother and sister from a lot of the humans I know.

I continue to work to clear the more stubborn dead underbrush away along the path we are working on.

Ashara? Looking over at the displacer beast.  You haven't been visited by anyone unusual today have you?

"We saw Orc-sies. They run off in-to for-est af-ter A-shar-a run af-ter them."

In reply to Ashara (msg # 154):

Smiling at the big cat.  Good Girl they know to be afraid of you on your ground. I'm glad you didn't get hurt.

After about an hour of digging/trimming over-grown/dead bushes and basically cleaning up the area so the enemy couldn't hide near the village, Rufus calls it a day.

"Alright, folks. Let's head back into the village and eat dinner. Meet up tomorrow morning, same time, same place."

Everyone gathers their tools and packs and heads back into the village for the night. If Byron and Kalli stay behind, they will be the only ones out here.

Myarra sighed.  In for a copper, in for a platinum.  Using her hands and wings for balance, she twisted her feet around in the bath and stood up, collecting her hair over her shoulder and squeezing the water from it.  It would dry automatically once removed from the magic of the bath, but she can't overcome years of habit.  Plus, it gave her something to do with her hands.

Turning, she faced Amara, since this is the kind of question that must be asked face to face.

"Would you be willing to help me?  You and Nolan are the only ones I trust, and Nolan's desire for power makes me uneasy.  I don't think he and I could work together very well at this kind of thing. But you seem to use magic as just another piece of yourself. You don't seem to view it as a means for conquering everything around you."

She pauses for just a second, then repeats her request.  "Will you help me?"

Kali sighs as Rufus calls it a day. Instead of the offer for the village she made her way towards the tower, talking to Byron as she walked. "Growing up I had few friends....I was more a wilderness and animal lover. When I met the Druids, I was all about work."He she smiled at the next memory. "Then I met Raieylan. I helped him when he was outnumbered and then he brought it upon himself to be my protector."

She chuckled then continued. We are more father and child than husband and wife, but I'd best phrase it as he is my uncle that I live with....the grumpy man that has a soft side." Kali sat by the tree she favoured while being at te tower and pulled a piece of fruit from a stash in the roots of the tree.

"Until I met the rest of you, he was my only friend, my only family that...." Her voice trailed off as she gained a far away look.

A thump on the ground behind her brought a smile back to her face as the panther padded beside her and sat at her side, as if he knew she needed his support

She absently patted the panther and looked at Byron. "Se....he knows my moods"

Nodding at both Kali and Ry.

Your only family that you can count on.

A look of sadness crosses Byron's eyes, but not the rest of his face and it is only visible for a moment before disappearing.

It took me a while to trust Alstadin as I did until his disappearance.  I want to trust the others, but it is hard for me to.  Nox in particular.  We share a common goal, and that is Culver's death.  However I think it is an obsession for him or maybe something more and that worries me.  Of the others Myarra is so far removed from her natural environment that I feel I can actually trust her about almost everything.

Looking back at the big cat and whispering the words softly so only the cat can hear.

You don't trust me.  You think I want to take Kali away from you.  I don't.  I just enjoy her company and truthfully her looks. 

Amara considered for a moment, "My magic is a part of me. It is innate, not learned like Nolan's is. I can try to help you, but that will depend much on you. And I will have to think of some way to try to awaken magic that might be in you. I do not think you would like the traditional drow way." Besides, she didn't know where on the surface she could reasonably obtain so many deadly spiders and centipedes. And really, drow rites were more to force the innate magic to come to the surface - clerical magic, after all, was the only appropriate magic for females. Even innate divine magic was frowned upon, though not as much as arcane.  "But if you do not have innate magic waiting under the surface, then you may need to ask Nolan to help you."

Aliana took a while to answer.
"I hope it works, and it makes sense that there must be some way of using it safely.  I just hope we can figure it out."

She also nodded to Myarra.
"If there's anything I can do, please let me know. "

"Pleased to be properly introduced, Khayyim. You can call me Roen, for short. Humble follower of Ilmater, at your service."

Looking around at the dining hall, Roen wondered where all the students went.

"Such a large place with nobody but us taking advantage of it? Such a pity."

"I don't think it's a surprise to say most people don't like much about the way the Drow go about doing anything in general," Myarra replies to Amara.

"But if it will help, then I'm willing to discuss it.  I know the magic exists, I can already bring about darkness and make my enemies ... well, nervous is about the extent of it.  So there is something to work with, if we can just bring it out."

Having finished plaiting her hair back into its normal tail, she flips it over her shoulder and sloshes over to the edge of bath, pulling herself up onto the surround.

Reaching for her circlet, she settles it securely on her head around her horns.  Gathering up her used clothes, she concentrates for a second, causing a simple white dress to shimmer into existence over her body, the back neatly folding around her wings the way real clothes never seem to be able to do properly.  "Washed or not, these clothes have been through enough to make me want to burn them.

Would one of you take me back to the dorm so I can get some fresh clothes, and then we should probably meet the others in the dining hall.

Hopefully, it won't be long before I can walk around by myself.

And, if it's not too much trouble, could we NOT let Nolan know about this?  At least until we know whether or not it's going to work."

Kali looked at the man who was opening up, not only to her, but the panther. Raieylan wasn't threatened by the man...which is why he lay at Kali's side and didn't rip him apart.

Kali also trusted him.

The woman sighed. "My life has been unusual Byron. I have an unusual parentage, but lets just say i am not entirely human...my father was a human, though i never knew him. My mother wasn't the maternal type, so i was left to teh village here to be cared for."

The woman smiled. "I wasn't normal by their standards...i hated the indoor dwellings, and often ran away to sleep in trees. For this reason i had no one stable home, but really the whole village was my guardians." She looked over her shoulder to the village...the place she once called home. "...i guess that is why i have a kinshipm to protect them, because they protected me so long ago."

She took a bite from her pear. "Then i was chosen into the druid order. They are no family....more a gathering of like minded people. You learn to survive in the wilderness or it take you." He words weren't warm, nor resentful....just truthful.

She looked at the panther. " That is why i share such a strong bond with Raie....he was my first true friend, someone who always had my back."

She sighed and tossed the pear core to raieylan, who sniffed it, and turned his head as if it was a mouldy piece of cheese

Kali looked at Byron. "Before you....before the group, there were few people i truely could trust and confide in. And though some have different views to myself, like Amara, i feel a kind of kinship with them."
She let out a little giggle and looked at Byron again.

"Hear me ranting....forgive me." She pauses and looks at the human again.

"This Alstadin you speak of sounds like someone you can trust....like a friend. I hope he is well....wherever he is"

He is someone you can trust.  Granted he will make fun of you in any way he can once he gets to know you, but he can take it just as well.  I don't know very many elves and Amara is the first Drow I have ever met. 

Looking at the village as i sit down against a tree opposite Kali.

They just want to live a quiet life.  I was like them until I turned 14.  Then I saw something that made me realize I would never be happy if I stayed.  It was hard leaving my home at first and I still look back at that choice.  No matter how sad I may get at my choice I know deep down it is the best choice I have made so far.

Looking back at Kali and the big cat with a smile.

Culver is going to be coming after us sooner or later.  I think it will be sooner if we get the stones of balance working order.  I hope that when he does it won't be here to spare the village the upcoming battle.

Kali smiled at the human. "Let him try to harm the people of this village, and he'll find out first hand that both Raieylan and I have teeth"

Her gaze to the village was protective, but almost distant and cold.  The next words were softly spoken and even toned, making it sound all the more ominous. "...if he tries I'll rip him to shreds "

Byron and Kalli stay outside and talk while everyone else (except for Lennox and Nolan) meet up in the dining hall to grab a bite to eat and to discuss future plans...

"Yes," Amara replied. "You have some magic, but to bring darkness is not a normal amateur spell. The magic you have so far displayed may well be magic such as my people have - everyone has it, but beyond that, they usually do not have spontaneous magic.

Usually to bring such magic out, one is placed into a very stressful situation. The mix of excitement and fear boils the blood until the magic overflows.

But you are different. You have been in battles - and life-threatening ones. For you, we shall have to think of something else." She paused for a long moment. "I think focusing on your inner self. In a deep way. I think I shall ask Kalliyan if she knows any good herbal preparations to help. But if you do not want her to know, I will not say why. And I will not tell Nolan until you do."

She ducked her head under water one last time at Myarra's request. Many people thought of caves as dark, dank, and cool, but in reality, many of the largest drow settlements were built around the rare hot springs, and soaking in them was one of her most pleasant childhood memories. She loved hot baths like this, and would have rather stayed in longer. But Myarra was right - they probably should be going to the others. Reluctantly she too exited the pool. She looped her arm once around her long silvery hair, and that alone seemed to smooth it so it flowed in waves to her ankles. Her clothes clean from the magical room, she pulled her robe/dress around her, not bothering, for now, with the sash she usually wore. "Let's go then."

Twiggy walks into the kitchen with his hair matted to his face, his clothes dishelved looking, and looks like he just ran fifty leagues. The halfling walks up to the device that he guesses makes food and says "Olive loaf bread and a bottle of red wine."  Twiggy nods to everyone and says "I need a bath, it has been thirty years. I will return shortly."

In reply to Kalliyan (msg # 166):

I think you might have to get in line Kali.  I'm pretty sure Nox is at the head of that line. 

Chuckling in a serious but teasing manner as Byron feels the same way as Kali about Culver and the village.

Myarra waits for Amara to get herself together, taking a few seconds to be green with envy at the way the drow's hair behaves itself.  Life really isn't fair.  Once she's ready, they begin the journey through the hallways, Myarra holding Amara's hand almost without thought as they reach and pass through each barrier.

"I'm sure the abilities I have stem from the demon, devil, or whatever the hell my ancestor slept with. The darkness, fear, protection ... they all came gradually as I grew up. I only figured them out when strange things happened.  I'm just hoping that since those were in there, maybe I can dredge up more.

If you think Kalli can help, then let's talk to her about it.  I don't mind if she knows why.  I just don't want Nolan to know because of all the shit I've given him about his magic.   Something tells me he'd have a few choice barbs to fire back.  If I try and succeed, then it will be worth it.  If not, what he doesn't know won't hurt me."

Once they arrive at the dorm she let the illusionary clothes fade away, dropped her old clothing in basket, and rummaged around in the chest by the bed she'd claimed as her own.  She removes two wrapped packages, placing one on the bed and opening the other.  It had only been a week or so since their shopping trip to Soubar, but she'd been so busy she hadn't had a chance to try them out.

The package on the bed contains new adventuring clothes for later, but she'd spent a little extra for some "around the house" clothes as well.  They wouldn't hold up to march through the woods, never mind combat, but for around the tower, it would be nice to wear something "pretty" for a change.

Arriving in the dining hall, she makes her way across to the food stations, the green silk of her mini-dress (hem just above the knees) sliding across her skin like a kiss.  She'll never turn heads like Amara ... or Aliana ... or Kalli for that matter, but for the first time in months, she was something other than just a warrior.

"Smoked sand lizard, roasted camel, and Zhentarim ale." she orders, then takes the resulting food over to the table with the others that had gathered.   "Are you all settling in well?" she asks, taking a seat by Roenthelm and Khayyim.

"We'll do our best to find out what more you may be capable of," she replied.

Amara paused after making sure that Myarra got to the dining hall. Standing in the doorway she asked those in the room, "Did Lennox's scrying go alright?"

"Yes I am, Thank you. Khayyim and I were just discussing all the room in this tower and that it's a pity that the villagers don't take advantage of it." Roen said as he spread out his arms "This dining room could probably seat the whole village with no problem. And that magical device you got your food from; it could feed everyone. How come the owner of this tower doesn't share to the poor?"

"It's not a matter of refusing to share.  Perish the thought." Myarra replies.  "The villagers don't have any desire to live in the tower.  Their homes lie outside.  It's where they've lived for generations, and that's where they want to continue living.

Not to mention that, not being magical, they can't get through the front door without an escort, or into any of the rooms, including this one.  There just aren't enough magical folks here to shepherd everyone around.

But nobody is going hungry. Or without shelter.  We're making sure of that.  And if there was a deadly danger, we'd evacuate everyone inside."

She pauses to sample some of her food, which is excellent as always.

"I don't live in this tower for the comfort.  I live here because it's the base with the magical doors that we use to go forth into the forest, defeating the evil that lies there, and protecting this village so that the people can live in peace."

Joining the meal, the priestess nodded in agreement to Myarra.
"Yes, as fascinating as this place is, it's also spooky and dangerous."

"What are these barriers you speak of? I have not encountered one yet." Roen asked, genuinely interested "I've heard they are magical barriers? Hopefully, the floor or wall is marked, so I don't wack my face on one."

"The tower is protected by invisible magical barriers all over the place. There's one at the front door, on the stairs leading up and down, and in the doorways of various rooms throughout.  And no, they're not marked.  But you learn pretty quickly where the ones are that won't let you pass.

To be able to pass through a barrier you have to be non-Evil, and have sufficient magic in your blood.  Or you can be escorted through a barrier by someone who is allowed to pass through.  You'll have to ask Nolan if you want more exact details.  But none of the villagers has the magic necessary.  If they did, they'd have been a student, and been wiped out by the orcs when they attacked the town.

The first floor requires the least amount of magic, which makes sense because this was the common area where the students gathered.  The basement requires more magic and each of the upper levels requires more and more.  Even Nolan can't get to the top yet.

When we were coming back from Lyran's Hold, there was a barrier on the stairs leading down into the portal room.  Either you have enough magic not to have noticed it, or one of our magic users touched you at the proper time to let you pass. They've gotten pretty good about it, I'm not sure they really give it a lot of thought anymore."

Twiggy walks back into the kitchen wearing a brown cotton robe and drying his hair with a towel.  There is no bottle of wine and his clothes he left drying in the bath room.  Hearing the mid to end of the conversation Twiggy thinks out loud "I should have gotten the Moderator to teach me against those.  I don't know about the barriers but there is a room that will train you on everything you need.  So everyone what have I missed?"   the halfling gets another bottle of wine and a platter of cheeses from the serving device  "This place is great"

Kali sits in silence, looking at the village and wonders at what would happen if she did meet culliver. Would she kill him without hesitation? That sounded something a wild animal would do.

....yet she related to wild animals so well.

She knew many of the druids of her order could change their shape into animals...some of the elders could even take the form of the elements themselves. The skill was beyond her, but she knew that she almost had the right level of focus to attain the skills.

She snapped out of her reprieve to look at byron again. The human would have been more comfortable in the tower, yet he chose to sit with her.

She smiled at the man. "Surely you would be more comfortable within the tower Byron...all those things that the others love so much, yet you sit with me out here."

she was curious to his answer

Myarra had heard Amara's question about Lennox, but apparently nobody else had.  And since she hadn't been present, she re-iterated Amara's question, being interested in the answer as well.

"I notice Lennox isn't here.  Does that mean his scrying attempt didn't go well?"

She pays closer than normal attention to her food, careful not to let any of it drip on her new dress.  Wool and cotton you could just beat on rock in a river until they came clean.  Silk was one of those extravagances that normally on the rich could afford because you had to throw them away if they got the least bit damaged.

In reply to Kalliyan (msg # 179):

Taking a moment to frame my reply to Kali's question.

I would be.  But I would also be too comfortable in the tower.  I like the bathes and the kitchen.  They are wonders that are to be enjoyed.  It is the beds that are too comfortable for me.  I could easily sleep through the end of the world in them.  That is not what I want to do.  I don't mind sleeping on cold ground and hard rocks and sitting through the mid night's watch to keep everyone safe.

Pausing a moment before continuing.

There is nothing wrong with using magic to help further our goals.  However, magic cannot and will not solve all of our issues.  Therefore I purposely choose to limit how I am exposed to it.

The Druid smiled at Byron, her view of the man improving more each time. The warrior surprised her....where most fighting men would take the opertunity of such luxury when they could, even abuse is, Byron felt that it would change him.

And in a way, she agreed.

Kali used magic herself in a way. Not lime the towers magic, or that of an arcane user, but hers was a secret language of nature itself, allowing the gifts of nature to assist her. Unlke a fireball of a sorcorer, or the priestly arts to bring back the dead, her art was more subtle. Lie the tree with the stone, her art wasn't used to move the tree but asked the tree to move for the good of the forest.

"You are a rare man Byron. Most would gladly sleep away the days while they can." She liked down with a coy smile. "Don't get me wrong Byron...I enjoy your company, in fact your the most approachable of the group in my opinion. You just strike me as an unusual breed....very rare"

In reply to Kalliyan (msg # 182):

I don't know about the most approachable, but most likely I am the youngest of the group.  And in being young I may be more wreckless in some ways and more cautious in others.

Looking at the big cat.

Certainly he thinks my interest in you could be wreckless or any number of other things.  Maybe it is because he has done wreckless and foolish things when he was young.

Looking back at Kali.

I am surprised to hear you admit to not being fully human.  When I look at you all I see is an attractive young human female.

The young woman rarely talked about her family, and though she thought of herself as human most of the time, that wasn't entirely so.

"My father was a warrior of nature, a great ranger that was indeed human but..." She looked at the man, fearing what she was going to say might change his mind of her. Her heritage held a lot of mystery.

She took a big sigh and continued. "My mother is very much alive, in the northern part of these very woods. I have met her twice." Her voice held no bitterness or hurt, only acceptance. She looked at Byron. "Such is the way of her kind. Nature spirits are flighty and more focused on nature"

She absently played with her hands as she spoke. "My mother is a nymph....which is why I love nature so much. My mother's heritage has given me an insight to the woods and animals." She smiled at the man. "..and it's a reason why I'm a Druid at such a young age, though I am not as young as I look. When I speak to nature, you may notice the language is unusual...even elves may not recognise the language, but it's an ancient form of my mother's language. I was taught this by another nymph who recognised my skills. I suppose it helps me focus and feel in tune with nature."

She uttered a few words in the unusual togune, and the panther looked at her, then lay back down. The woman smiled. "It's probably also why I feel ill at ease in buildings....my mother's pull and my calling yearns me for the wild"

Kali looked at the man and blushed a little. She had told few people her tale, and usually the Druids who knew were elders who did. No one outside the Druid order, other than a few of the older members of the village knew.

....and now Byron knew.

Byron smiles a very sincere your secret is safe with me smile.

I won't tell the others.  That is your story to tell as you see fit to tell them. 

Looking over at the big cat.

You have a very loyal friend in Kali.  I hope you will be my friend as well someday even though I know that I will never be able to speak your language.  Who is taking the first watch?  You or me big guy?

And so, the night goes on. You all talk until you eventually want to go to sleep. Nothing special happens during the night on anyone's watch and in the morning, you all feel refreshed. Lennox wakes up around 10am with a headache...

Myarra carefully packed away her fancy new dress before bed, her outing at dinner having been a success from the point of view of not having destroyed it. She'd felt a bit weird, not to mention vulnerable, but she supposed that practice would help.  There would be other days in town.

But tomorrow was going to be a normal day.  From her second package, she extracted her new adventuring clothes.  The top was soft leather, with strategic slits to allow air to circulate and her skin to breathe, but not to allow weapons to pass through.  It had been professionally fitted to her torso, with solid fastenings at her neck and the small of her back to hold it in place, while allowing her wings full range of motion.  And it provided the necessary padding for her chain armor to rest on top of.

She'd been tempted to try some form of skirt to go with it, but the necessity of free movement during combat, not to mention the possibility of flying over her teammates dictated that she keep with good solid pants.  But these were also a cut above her old cotton and wool, being made of a patchwork of bits of dragonhide.  It wasn't thick enough to be useful as armor, but it should keep the stinging insects out, and make cleaning up somewhat easier.

The hardest part was finding someone to let her out of the tower at that time of night.  But even that was soon accomplished, and she settled herself comfortably on top of one of ruined buildings (of which there were still too many) for a nights rest.

When the morning dawned, and she detected movement by the birch tree, she made her way over to Kalli, Byron, and Raieylan, careful to approach with enough noise that the big cat wouldn't think she was trying to sneak up.  She wasn't sure if Amara had made any attempt to discuss their plan with the druid, and hoped to be present when the matter was broached.

"Good morning."

Sister Aliana did her morning prayers, and her morning hygiene,  and joined the others.  She felt as if she were in way over her head, but she wanted to help her friends.
"Good morning! "

Nox is both pleased and disappointed to waken to an empty room, but that pales in the shadows of yet another failure with the scrying orb. That stung more than anything really. His failures were mounting, and with every hour his failures were no doubt compiling into graver and graver dangers. Worst, countless lives may already have been caused by Culver-- indirectly making him responsible.

He pushes through the nausea and throbbing sensations in his temples as he grabs some towels and heads for the baths. He needed to think, and that was hard. Even with the priest's immediate efforts, he was drained and weakened of both spirit and body. A bath would help, but Nox was well aware it was far from the restorative efforts he'd need. There's nagging thoughts undercutting just how useful he'd proven to this group thus far, even in peak condition. Nolan outstripped his arcane abilities by a long shot, and his normally unflappable constitution had left him ineffective in the most recent skirmish against the ghouls. As he dunks himself into the water, it's all he can do to initiate the mantra that kept him on the straight and narrow. The code by which he survived, that which had seen him through the trials that had broken or destroyed each of his siblings. Truth be told, he was clinging to that razors edge. Luckily, his family seemed too preoccupied to take advantage.

Once suitably clean and toweled off, he re-dresses, re-arms, and heads off in search of the others. There was a job to do. It wasn't his ideal use of time, but it was the price demanded for the assistance of these others who he hoped would enable him to complete his own quest... Hopefully before the costs outweighed the benefits of waiting.

By the time he reaches the others, his insecurities and doubts and fears are shelved. He'll ask the priests if they have any restorative magicks, but will dismiss any sympathies or pityr judgements if not. He was ready for the day. Steel and Spell, Mettle and Muscle.

Good Morning Myarra.  Did you sleep well?

She can see that I had my hand on my sword ready to draw it should it be something deadly  trying to reach us.  My tone cheerful with no hint of teasing or anything else in it this early.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:26, Tue 20 Dec 2016.

Lennox finds Khayyim talking with Roenthelm, Twiggy and Aliana in the dining hall having a late breakfast, so Lennox might think they slept in. He grabs some food from the "oven" and sits down to join the group. He asks Khayyim if he could help him with a spell...

"No problem, my friend. I must admit that I thought you were joking when you said you might be smoking." Khayyim chuckled "Boy was I shocked to see it myself. Let me cast a spell on you."

Khayyim casts Lesser Restoration on Lennox.

Myarra glanced at Byron, so earnest and forthright so early in the morning.  He really was adorable.  It was a pity he was totally smitten with Kalliyan.  No poaching was one of her cardinal rules.  Still ...

"Morning Byron!" she replied, not even trying to hide the smirk.  "Now, I'm going to tell you what I tell my boyfriends.  Don't be pulling it out if you're not prepared to give me a thorough workout."

She shakes her head and turns to Kalli.  With luck, the druid will soon have her hands full with this one.  "Kalli, we're getting ready to head out soon, but before we go, I need you to talk to Amara ... assuming you haven't already.  I had an idea, and Amara's going to help, and she thinks you can help as well.  But I'm not sure what she needs, so I don't want to confuse things by trying to explain it without her.  Anyway, do you or Raieylan have much to do to prepare for traveling?"

Nox offers the priest a lopsided grin. "My thanks to you and your patron."

"It would seem the orb continues to find me unworthy, despite a verbatum of Amara's command. So, it's either predisposed against males... Or she has something else insulating her from the side effects. Elf blood maybe, or even something unique to Dark Elves. It's beyond me." The warrior shrugs, the leather bindings of his armor creaking only softly thanks to being well oiled. "Which places me firmly at her mercy for intelligence gathering, or at yours for piecing my spirit back together afterwards if I opt to brave it myself again upon our return from todays venture." It's evident, despite the pleasant tone... He's not a fan of being so reliant on others. "Speaking of, was there any talk over dinner regarding todays objective? Another balancing stone no doubt..." His memory flashes behind his eyes, the vantages of each such stone still fresh there.

Twiggy spent a good portion of the night oiling his tools, weapons, and armor before heading to bed.  It was strange that he did dream of what he lost but only vengeance against the dragon cult.  Sitting in the kitchen the next morning he is eating a bowl of porridge with blueberries,  hot and sweet just like me.  Twiggy chuckles to himself as he waits to hear what the plan is. The others talk alot but it seems the wizard Nolan is the one who is the compass.

Well if we have some time this afternoon I will be happy to give you a good workout with this.

Indicating my sword with a teasing tone and a smirk of my own.

Come on big guy, it seems that Myarra wants to speak to Kali in private.

Looking at the big cat with a nod that we should check the perimeter again.

Kali loved at Myarra with a smile. She enjoyed stirring the friendly warrior as much as she did, but where Kali's comments were playful and innocent, Myarra's were more forward, more to the point.

....she admired her for that.

The Druid playfully slapped the panther on the rump, who opened an eye and let out a sound that sounded like a half hearted growl. The Druid chuckled. "Go keep Byron safe, you old man."

the panther stretched, yawned and padded off, not waiting for the warrior. The Druid calls out playfully after the pair. "...and try not to hurt Byron too much.....yet"

Kali looked at the woman again. "I haven't spoken to Amara this morning, but if need be I can leave at a moments notice." She looks at her meagre belongings, all fitting into a satchel and her hands. She winked at Myarra. "I travel light " Looking back to where the panther padded away, she spoke again. "...and he will be ready when I am."

Nolan finally came down from the upper level of the keep and went to get food. When he sat down next to the group, he had a tray with a nice steaming steak with veggies, a mug of ale and apple pie for dessert. Before eating, he opened his robe and pulled out a pair of leather gauntlets and placed them on the table before Lennox.

My latest project finished last night. Take good care of them.

"I wouldn't even work up a sweat," Myarra laughs, but watches appreciatively with her head tilted to one side as the Byron walks away with the big cat half accompanying/half stalking him.

"Seriously," she adds to Kalli.  "I don't sweat.  Never have.  Bit of pain in the desert.  I'm pretty resistant to heat, but if it gets too bad I start panting.  And that's really attractive.

But, just to be totally honest with you, you know he's yours if you want him.  He's cute, and fun to tease, and not objectionable in any way, but he's not really my type for anything long term.  And I never dally with people I work with.  And then there's the little bit about how he's clearly smitten with you."

She leans up against the tree, looking around the village.  It's only been light for a short time, but already the village is beginning to buzz with activity.  The orcs had done a lot of damage, and it was going to take a lot of work to repair, in addition to everything they had to do just to survive while they repaired it.  She's hoping that Amara will show up with her usual impeccable timing.  It's not like elves actually sleep after all.  Not that Amara owes her anything.  It just would be really convenient.

Twiggy seeing Nolan take out some gauntlets and give to Lennox remembers the ring he hasily placed in his pocket from the dead people room and asked the group "Which one of you can identify items?  I found this ring on one of the corpses.  I don't know why but it just called to me.  I didn't want to keep it a secret but Nolan tossing those gauntlets on the table just reminded me of the thing."

Nox offers Nolan an appreciative nod, subconsciously recognizing and/or accepting that these new gauntlets were an upgrade from the ones he was already wearing. Silver-knuckled though they were, the runed sitching on Nolan's implied the lost utility would be more of a boon on the daily basis. So, the warrior removes the silver-knuckled back-up weapons and slides his hands into the newer set. The tiny thrumb of power as they settle into place, and the silent ogre's roar in his minds eye confirms what he needs to know. "I'll do my best." He replies, now tucking his mundane set away into his haversack.

I'm counting on it. I know you want to go after Culver pretty badly and that is understandable. That's why we're trying to repair the waystone device. I don't want anyone lost using the thing if we did find our enemy.



I can. I'll use the pedestal of identification on the second floor to identify the ring. I already identified all the stuff we got from Lyran's hold, plus what we found when we battled the cult in the library. There's some pretty good stuff. Anything we all don't want, we can go to town and sell off and maybe upgrade somebody's weapon or armor or buy something useful or you can keep your share of the treasure for your own purpose. Here is the list of items that I have identified.

Nolan pulls out a piece of parchment and places it on the table.

Twiggy slides the ring on the table to Nolan as he looks at the list  "Whats the boots do?  I always thought to keep the ones on the frontline well defended and you well stocked. Everything else falls into place.  "

Nox leans in to check the list too.

Amara spent a while meditating, trying to determine the best way to help Myarra discover her own magic. Teaching others was not what she considered her forte, and quite frankly she would have rather had someone else do it. But while Myarra was very open about some things, she kept other things close to the heart. And they had been allies long enough that she wanted to at least try.

She enjoyed a light breakfast of mixed fruit. Fruit was the food that she really felt those underground missed out on. The crunch of centipedes and scorpions or savory saltiness of blood pudding made fine lunches and dinners, but the juicy, sugary nectar was am amazing way to start the day.

Then she went outside, searching for Kalliyan. It didn't take long to find her, and with Myarra. She was a bit surprised, cocking an eyebrow, but continued forward anyway. "Good morning," she greeted, glancing between the two. "I was wondering if we could speak for a few minutes before heading out."

"Good morning, Amara."  Myarra says, nodding to her.  "I was just starting to tell Kalli, but I really have no idea of what you have in mind.

I'll leave you two alone to discuss it.  It might be better if I don't know exactly what's coming.

I'm going to fly a couple of laps around the village.  I'll meet you back at the tower in a little while."

She turns and spreads her wings, then turns to look back over her shoulder for a second.  "Thank you, Amara.  I really do appreciate your help."

Then with a few flaps, she rises into the air and heads off for the edge of the village.

Kali is a little taken aback by Myarra's comments about Byron, but doesn't have time to dwell on them as Amara arrives. The druid watches the Winged warrior fly off, and she can't help but watch and shake her head with a smile.

"A rare woman that one, not only in body, but spirit too.." she looks at Amara with a smile and leans against the tree. "So, what did you have in mind Amara? Myarra hinted at something but never told me anything about your idea or plan." She raises an eyebrow. "I have to admit, i'm curious"

Twiggy nods at the list and gives a low whistle "Well the ring will do me little good, I already have evasion training.  That dagger looks nice if no one else wants it and I have to say the decanter of water will come in really handy for the group as a whole.  Fill a pit trap with water so everyone can swim across instead of fall in or soak a floor and the water drains through traps or into cracks of secret doors."

Yes, there are a few things that just needs to be party equipment, so that should be placed aside. The potions, scrolls, the decanter and the rod and perhaps the candle, in case we need to interrogate somebody. I have no use for the bracers since the most powerful one is equal to mine, so I'm not interested in any of the stuff except for the spell book we found awhile back. The wizard wasn't very powerful, so the book will have some value, but not as much as some of the items here. I'll just take my share of the loot with the book and coin or gems to fund my future projects.

Roen looked over the list out of curiosity, reminding him of days past where he cared about his share of the treasure, but thought of an idea."Using the decanter to look for traps seems like a waste to me, Twiggy. The farmers in this village could really use it for their crops instead of suffering in the heat all day. That's just my suggestion. Also, with this Rufus fortifying the town, I'm sure extra magical weapons would help greatly in it's defense, just in case something attacked?"

Nox snorts. "Decanter's better off in Twiggy's hands if you ask me." Nox replies. "Weather'll take care of the crops far easier than a single jet of water. As for the weapons..." He shrugs. "If there's an able hand willing to wield it, and they've coin to buy or rent it-- power to them." He purses his lips thoughtfully, running a finger down the list. "This here though... This definitely should be on the hand of a front liner. If not me... Myarra perhaps? Or Byron." His fingers is beside the described Ring of Evasion. "Those things fetch a high price on the market, but can be a real life saver when fireballs and lightning bolts start getting tossed about. Most likely targets then will be those of us with big flashy swords..."

"Yes, she is." Amara replied. "In spirit, we all are."

She hesitated, "Myarra doesn't want me saying too much about it, but I want to help her relax, basically mediate. I was hoping you might be able to help me by providing some herbs, or herb preparations, for relaxation. And even better if it was helped one see things beyond the mundane, if you know what I mean. Maybe enough for four or five applications?

In the Underdark, we'd use centipede and spider venom, but that's... painful as well as mind opening. And I don't know plants, other than mushrooms, very well."

"No need to snort, sir. I'm just thinking about the innocents who share this area with us who can't fight this Culver you so seek."

Nox laughs heartily. "Oh, it's a pleasure not a need." Is all he offers by way of explanation. For all his willingness to face evil, his devout championing of Free Will, and dedication to his contractual duty... Nox just didn't have that selfless need to pander to such chivalrous notions. "A decanter of endless water won't help the people here. Might help a family or three in the short term in the method you describe, but that's it... But as a tool in Twig's hands? Just might help keep our group alive long enough to do some real good."

Nolan stood up and didn't look too happy. Whether or not the village could use it, they're not getting it. They signed up long ago that they would not be getting any special treatment because they decided to set up roots near the wizard tower. What you wish to do with your share of the treasure is your business. I just don't want, and won't have, any arguments about it.

Nox raps a gauntleted fist agreeably on the tabletop, nodding in support.

Myarra banks in a gentle turn, skirting along the edge of the forest which curves around Daak to the north (and further off, to the east).  She's flying right at tree-top level because, although she'd love to soar high above, there are far more deadly flying creatures than her in the aptly named "Forest of Wryms".  And the last thing she wants to do is challenge one for supremacy of the air.

She smiles at the irony of now being able to fly, and being mostly grounded by a forest, when she'd spent so many years earth-bound in the desert, with nothing but sand and scrub in every direction as far as the horizon.

The ground slowly unrolls beneath her, the long shadows of the forest being cast by the just risen sun keeping the tree-line dark and mysterious ... well, to anyone that doesn't have darkvision.  The village is much safer today that even a week ago, but that doesn't mean that orcs and the like aren't still looking to make mischief.  It was always best to keep an eye open.

Kali scratched her chin. She was capable of brewing potions when need be, but was out of practice. Her skills had seen her more a scout than anything, and now she was in a mixed group, she realised all her skills may be needed.

"I am capable of brewing potions, but I must admit my skills are limited to nature-based effects. Such is the way of the Druid, their skills focus on plants and animals. We have minor abilities for healing."

She thought for a second, then looked at her. "These type of spells are suited for priests, possibly wizards."

She sits down and thinks of her herb gathering classes she had with one of her mentors, an old elf who could pick the properties of a plant by smell alone. He had skills that could aide hem, and had shown her many types of herbs.


She has a sudden thought, and smiles. "I may be able to do something for her, but given her heritage, I dunno how effective it will be....but it's worth a try."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:05, Sat 24 Dec 2016.

There wasn't anything Roen could say. He was a guest in this large home and didn't want to offend anyone with his beliefs. The group needs to work together to accomplish their goal of defeating the Cult of the Dragon and arguing about treasure distribution was childish.

"I understand." was all Roen said

OK, we're going to go through all the treasure, as I'm tired of it all piled up in the lab. Then it will be divided up fairly and anything nobody wants will be sold in Soubar. And since our next destination are these gardens, we'll all travel to Soubar since I don't want to take a chance of using the waystone if there are demons in the gardens like Roenthelm claims. We'll do our business there, then travel to the gardens and deal with what is there, if we can.

So, based off what treasure we have collected so far, these items will become party property for anyone who needs the use of it:

1 Decanter of Endless water
1 Rod of Metal and Mineral Detection
1 Candle of Truth
2 potions: CMW and Remove Fear
1 scroll: CMW x2, Remove Fear x2
1 Adamantite rod 1/4" diameter by 1 foot long
10 Old ledger books from Lyran's Hold: year 712-703
1 old book from the cult priest Bache

And these coins and gems will be evenly distributed based off their value:

119 Platinum
1,377 gold
935 silver
1,056 copper
20 small rubies
20 red gems
20 green gems

So, based off what is left, which is a lot, write down what you would like. The stuff that nobody wants will be loaded on a cart and we'll go to Soubar to sell it. Except for the evil mace. That will be taken to a local temple for disposal.

After a couple of laps around the village, peaceful and uneventful laps, Myarra turns her flight back towards the center of Daak, and the imposing wizard's tower.

She stops once to help a team of stone masons loading blocks of stone onto a platform and winch it up to the top of wall which was in the process of being repaired.  Then she deviated from her course to dive bomb a group of children playing in one of the ruined buildings, their screams and laughter falling away behind her.  She'd never really seen herself as the maternal type, but for some reason children liked her anyway.  One of the true mysteries of life.

Finally arriving at the tower, she got an escort to take her up to the dining hall where the others were gathering to discuss the divvying up of the treasure that had been accumulating for a while.

"That ring of evasion is the only thing I'd be interested in," she tells the group.  "This is my father's sword.  It would take a lot for me to give it up.  And none of the armor is really any better than what I already have.  As for the rest of it, I really don't see what good it would be.  But the ring would help when bad people throw nasty magic at me.  And for some reason, bad people seem to love throwing nasty magic at me."

Twiggy didn't want to argue about loot either but did see what Roenthelm was saying about helping out others. Yollanda looks after her halflings and it was good to have someone of greater faith than he, although he did have to chuckle at Lennox's boldness "I would like to put in for the dagger.  Lennox is right Roenthelm, the decanter is better in my hands and will most probably save our life.  I do like your thinking though and will contribute to buying the farmers a decanter if you can get someone to make one.  Also could the frontliners use the rings of protection along with their armor?

So Nolan it is apparent that you are the no fuss person who is keeping this bunch in line, what is the next move?"

"Can't imagine why." Lennox snarks softly regarding Myarra's comment about nasty magic being thrown in her way so frequently before loudly biting into an apple to hide his accompanying smirk. "Sounds as good a home as any we have for it, may it serve you well!" He adds louder, with a salute of his apple.

After coming in from a quick check around the perimeter with Kali's companion Ry.  Byron sees the list and comments on it.

I'd like the suit of Platemail.

Deciding not to comment on the swords until later as he gets some fresh fruit and a mug of hot coffee.

Me, the no fuss person? Yeah right. It's usually Myarra and Amara running things most of the time while I complain and cry. But, since I sort of know about the way-stones and have identified the stuff we have accumulated, I guess it's my turn to take the leads until somebody better comes along.

So, we're going to divvy up the treasure and travel to Soubar, which is 45 miles from here. We'll have plenty of horses for everyone to carry all the stuff we want to sell, to save traveling time by skipping a cart. That was really nice of the cultists who attacked us on the road last time to bring horses for us. I'll have to thank them the next time we meet. We should be in Soubar late afternoon tomorrow. We'll stay at the Golden Goose tavern until our business has concluded.

Amara listened to Kalliyan describe her abilities. "I did not mean a magical potion, necessarily. I was thinking more an herbal mixture - nothing as powerful as magic. What do you think you could do?"

The Druid smiles with a gleam in her eye. "I can do that....the question is how relaxed you want her and for how long?"

"Very relaxed," Amara replied. "Maybe around an hour?"

In reply to Nolan (msg # 225):

Smiling at Nolan, Aliana nodded.
"That sounds like a good plan.  As much as I love the green, growing places, I'll admit missing the bustle of civilization."

The druid nods and begins to stand up.  She looks at the Drow. "Is there an alchemy lab in the tower? I could do it out here, but would need a few things, but for intended purposes, it would be easier in a area set up for this." She sniffs, crinkling her nose.

"...even if it is indoors"

Nolan smiled back to Aliana,

Yeah, I like walking around town from time to time to see how things are going. Perhaps when we get to town, we can all go to a fancy restaurant to see if it's just as good as the food dispenser? Also searching around from shop to shop to see if they have anything good we would need is also fun.

Charger will enjoy the trip to the big town.  He hasn't gotten out as much as he likes or is used to since we met you guys.

Byron says as he finishes his coffee.

"I actually have come to like larger cities as well.  While there are limits, they're much more accepting of people with ... unusual looks.  Although I'm told that Soubar is tiny in comparison to Waterdeep or Silverymoon, but since I've never seen those fabled places, I'll just have to go on thinking of Soubar as the height of human civilization.  "

In reply to Nolan (msg # 231):

Aliana nodded at the handsome and enigmatic wizard, with whom she (unbeknownst to him) had a personal connection.
"That sounds lovely.  Even if it's as good or even not up to snuff, I always tell people to try new things.  Travel, exploration, and the like is what makes life interesting."

Myarra snorts with amusement.   "And yet you've rejected my suggestion of highwayman.  It does build character, I assure you."

In reply to Myarra (msg # 235):

Aliana tried to look haughty, but it was obviously she was only pretending.
"Meeting people is part of the excitement of exploration, Dear Lady, and people are far less apt to share their stories with you if they're in the process of handing over their valuables.  Besides, a Wanted Poster isn't the kind of fame I'm looking for."

Highway robbery is something I'll never get into, unless I'm a merchant. As soon as any merchant finds out that you're a wizard or something, prices seem to get more expensive for everything. That's why I try and make the items I need. But, for now, let's divvy up everything and load the rest onto the horses and get out of here.

"Brigands." Lennox snorts, letting his tone and word choice stand by itself illuminate where he stood on that particular topic.

"Yes, we should be going." Myarra agrees, getting to her feet.

She places her hands at the small of her back, twisting from side to side as she leans backwards, letting the tendons and ligaments snap and pop.  Sighing with relief, she picks up her dishes to return them to be cleaned, but pauses to give one last word to Aliana.  "Don't worry about the wanted posters.  They never get your nose right."

In reply to Myarra (msg # 239):

Aliana chuckled and made a little pout.
'But I'd want them to get my nose right. ....it would bother me otherwise. '
She also helped clean up.

Nox downs the apple's core even, he was a fan of fruit... though this was the first time any had witnessed him eating. Ever. That done, he vanishes in a small swirl of soft shadows (reappearing outside, ready and waiting for the others)

Now Myarra, you shouldn't tease the very innocent Aliana so much.  It might send her into shock.

Unable to resist adding his own brand of teasing the innocent girl Byron continues.

Aliana there is no way any artist could do justice to your beauty if you did become a brigand.

Hey Nolan you might try the Heart of the Dragon tavern for some good drinks.

Giving him a meaningful look and one in Aliana's direction to give him a hint.

"Yes, there is an alchemy lab in the tower," Amara replied. "I can get you there if you are not able to do so yourself." She looked around, "It appears the others are getting ready to go. We can talk on the road."

"You wound me, Byron.  I would have nothing to do with brigands," Myarra replies, almost pulling off a hurt look, but her smirk says otherwise.  "Brigands ambush people in forests and mountains where the caravans are typically heavily guarded, leading to nasty battles where people get killed.  Highwaymen are civilized thieves that prowl the roads between towns and cities and fleece rich merchants trying to squeeze a copper by skimping on guards.  They'd tell you a tale of woe, sure enough, but the transaction was usually bloodless.  Not that the Daleland patrols appreciated the difference. They have no sense of humor at all.

And, just in case it ever comes up, stick to Deepingdale, Mistledale, and Featherdale.  They have the nicest gaols.  Stay far away from Shadowdale if you possibly can."

Putting her hand lightly on Aliana's shoulder, her tone become properly gentle.  "We wouldn't want you to be bothered, my dear friend.  The artists always made my nose look like I'd run into a tree ... several times.  And my fangs twice as big as they really are.  Frankly, I think they were just being mean to compensate for having a boring job."

Kali nodded to the drow woman. "Unless it's urgent, we can aproach it later. Until then, lets go." The Druid walks to the others and hears the end of Myarra's conversation. Before she can say anything, Raieylan jumps out of a nearby tree with a thud Andy pads over, standing next to Kali and nudges her.

The woman chuckles warmly, as she looks at Byron. "Did he play nice?"

In reply to Byron Rockhead (msg # 242):

Sister Aliana looked like she wanted to be miffed at being called "an innocent", despite the outstanding evidence to support the assertion,  but smiled with slight embarrassment at Byron's compliment,  though she certainly didn't try to correct him.
Nodding in agreement at the tavern choice,  Aliana missed the look given to Nolan, instead chuckling at her winged friend.
"I'm sure you'd make a splendid looking Lady of the Highway.   If a wanted poster is ever made, I'd love a signed copy."

I don't know Aliana, I think any artist who tried to make a wanted poster of Myarra would exaggerate her unusual features.  Which would really be a disgrace to her.

Smiling at the big cat and replying with a chuckle.

He did play nice.  He only tripped me once.

Patting Charger on his flank.

Are you ready for a little journey?

Nolan smiled and looked at Aliana, but his heart was with somebody else. Also, Francis would probably dice him up if Nolan took Aliana out for drinks. Taking the spell book he just acquired to his lab and making sure things were going smoothly on his current project, Nolan headed downstairs again to grab some food for the trip. It's been awhile since he'd ridden a horse to town.

Kali smiled at the human's comments, then patted Raieylan on the back. "I was talking to him actually....seeing if YOU played nice with him!"

She straightened up then went to her camp and retrieved her pack and spear, quickly returning. "Don't worry Byron, i'm sure he wouldn't hurt you too much."  The playful smile on her face said it all.

She then looked at Myarra with a smile. "...and as for their paintings my friend, it is their short sightedness. I thought they would have emphasised your great sword....I know that teh only scarier than the sword is how you wield it."

I was nice to him.  I'm not totally convinced he believed what I told him though.  I guess that is why he tripped me once.  All in all he's a good friend to have at your side.

Kali giggled at Byron's comment.  She knew the panther wouldn't hurt the man, she knew that he even liked him...but she wouldn't tell him that just yet.

...she wanted to keep him on his toes.

"Your lucky he just tripped you.  If he was in a playful mood he could have accidently mauled you."

Myarra smiled at Aliana, not quite sure what to make of the elf and her stubborn belief that her friends must be nice people despite all the evidence to the contrary.  In fact, there were wanted posters with Myarra's face (with varying degrees of accuracy) all over four (maybe five) Dales.  Or there had been a month ago before Mystra had taken her up and set her on this new path.

"Wanted posters are for identification, Kalli.  So that people will try to capture you for the reward.  The last thing they want to do is make you look dangerous."

She decline the use of a horse, preferring to walk or fly along the way, and allowing more swag to be packed on the horses.  Once they set forth, though, she couldn't help adding.  "Now piracy is something I've never tried.  Probably because there haven't been any large bodies of water.  But, I was thinking, if I ever get my zepplin, air piracy might be something worth considering."

After the treasure has been picked through by the party, the rest is loaded upon horses graciously donated by the Cult of the Dragon. Some food is retrieved from the Dining Hall and then the party is on their way to the trading town of Soubar, which is 45 miles from the Village of Daak. If Nolan's timing was correct, the group should arrive (if they don't encounter hostiles) late afternoon the next day 185.1372 , during the month of Kythorn. (15 days until Summer Solstice) The group rides out of the small village following a well worn wagon trail. The weather is beautiful and it's starting to get warm (80 degrees) The only people you encounter along the trail today is local farmers working their land. You all sleep under the open sky that night and don't encounter anything.

The next morning, after prayers and breakfast and the call of nature, you head out again along the same trail. Encountering farmers is less and less and several hours go by without encountering anything at all. The view of the miles ahead is nice with a slight breeze of the prairie grasses. You all talk small talk to pass the time, trying to get to know each other better or what specifics you wish to do in town, while keeping an eye out for danger. The group doesn't encounter anybody until they start to see the town of Soubar off in the distance. Then they start to see more farmers and merchants traveling the road ahead coming and going to the trading town. Once upon the main road, it takes maybe 20 minutes to get to the Northern Gate from the Main Road. The gate guards stop all entrances into town, but when the group gets there, they are thoroughly questioned until one of the guards recognizes Byron, who's family lives in Soubar. Myarra is used to this kind of treatment because of how she looks, with Amara a close second because of her heritage. But, with promises to the guards that the group will be good, you are granted access to town. Nolan is insistent on the Golden Goose Inn, but Byron tries to explain that the place is no longer there (he doesn't even remember it), but recommends the Heart of the Dragon Inn instead.

The group gets rooms at the Heart of the Dragon while the remainder of the day is spent at the Temple of Lathander explaining the story on how the group came into possession of the Mace of Blood and the group's desire to see the thing destroyed. Myarra just sits in the pews and looks at the murals on the walls and ceiling before dozing off and is started awake when the job at the Temple is concluded and the group returns to their rooms for the night.

The next days comes.....

Twiggy spends the walk to town throwing his dagger and watching it return to his hand. Everything was a target as they walked. He enjoyed the banter of the group and hoped he could help them out.

Reaching town he let the others do the talking as most halflings were considered thieves if they wasn't a merchant or a farmer. This was the truth but the gaurds did not need to know this.  Looking at the name of the inn he chuckled "Dragon cult, dragon inn. These people need to learn about more animals. I know we are trying to take down the dragon cult but what set you all on this mission in the first place."

First not all dragons are evil and it is known that some good dragons have a very unique sense of humor.  Many years ago, before my grandparents were born a female brass dragon was playing a prank on the young man who had just inherited the inn from his parents.  Well things got a little wild and very out of hand.  The dragon now owns the tavern, and the young man's descendants run it for the dragon.  I've never seen the dragon, but have heard it said that she comes around once a year to collect the profits among other things.  That said they don't tolerate fighting, pick pocketing or other things that distract from their business.  Do one of them and you will find yourself thrown out of town faster than you can say your name.   

Byron says seriously before continuing in a light hearted manner.

Ofcourse how the inn got it's name be it rumor or legend or what not, I don't know.  I do know they have great food and drinks.  They don't cheat their customers so you will find a lot of regulars there as well as travellers.

As they rode their leisurely way to Soubar, Aliana was mostly content to listen to the stories of the others.   She was attentive and fully engaged,  as if she had been a professional listener in years past.
When the conversation got around to her, she insisted she was fairly ordinary,  speaking of a childhood  (and young adulthood) being raised by librarians and clerics of the library /temple of Oghma, having been left there by unknown parents as a baby.
The story of the Heart of the Dragon  caused the former librarian to give Byron her undivided attention.   She seemed enraptured by the idea of a dragon innk,  even in abstensia.
She also gawked and gased at the town in wonder, though she tried unsuccessfully to hide it.
At the temple she helped with the party's narrative as best as she could, happy to help.

Roen listened and enjoyed the story, not caring if it was true or not. It passed the time while they were traveling to town, the same town that he hasn't seen in 40 years. He was surprised to see the giant wall around the place. That wasn't there the last time he was here. He told the priests of Lathander his version of the story, but it sounded the same as the others, but he felt good to get his version in to help the group. Remembering what Nolan said to him before, Roen went to one of the priests of Lathander to ask for some advice, once the situation with the evil mace was concluded.

Myarra left it up to the others to tell the tale of their adventure.  Truth be told, she was somewhat surprised she didn't burst into flames when passing through the doorway into the temple, and preferred to do as little as possible to draw Lathander's notice.

Religon has always been hit or miss for her.  None of the deities she'd looked to had ever made their presence known, until one did, and the most unlikely one of them all.

One of the warriors most important lessons was, when in doubt, get some rest, and Myarra took the opportunity to do just that, although she appeared to wake with a start, sitting upright and proclaiming, "I try, My Lady, I try," before shaking her head, yawning, stretching, and rejoining the others.

The next morning, she woke feeling like her head was stuffed with straw.  It was almost like having a headache, but without the pain.  It was strange, but by the time she'd joined the others for breakfast, she'd pretty much forgotten about it.

"Agreed. Not urgent," Amara replied to Kalliyan.

She also headed toward the others. She had no horse of her own, but rode one that had recently been captured.

As they rode, it was obvious that while Amara had the dexterity to become at least a decent, if not truly good, rider, she had little to no skill.

Along the way, she mostly listened, although she was not adverse to talking. Her hummingbird companion obviously liked the traveling, flitting from flower to flower, return to the comfort of Amara's robes when not foraging.

She didn't much like big cities on the surface. First, because they reminded her of the hustle and bustle and backstabbing of her own home. And second, while she was stared at anywhere she went, it was in the big towns where she could most easily imagine someone deciding to try to make a name for themselves by trying to off a drow.

She felt out of place in the temple of Lathander. He was too closely associated with the sun and all things bright. She only added to the story if questioned, and while she no longer suffered from sunlight in the manner of her kin that had spent their entire lives underground, still the temple was not a pleasant place for her.

"I assume today we try to sell the items. Byron, you seem to know this place well - do you have a recommended place to start?"

Well for arms and armor we should try Amos' Armory or the Sword & Shield store.  Both have reputations for being fair to their customers.  I'd suggest Amos' Armory first as it is where I got some of my very first weapons and armor.  As to general magic there are a couple of different places but not having shopped in any of them I don't know how fair they will be or what selection of items they have if you want to purchase something.  For general adventuring supplies Tom's Travelling Supply Store is good.

For his part, Nox attempts to be not only agreeable... But almost proactively engaging... On the trip. Throughout each day he'd flit loosely about the riding formation in attempt to try 'small-talk'. While the efforts were not in his comfort zone, they were undeniable and free from anything offensive. Capable, just not a schmoozer. When it came to talk of Dragons, and the Inn, Nox was as ever an advocate for Dragonkind-- a glance to the empty skies as he was still somewhat worried for Lothorewyn's absence. He'd had more than a few nightmares regarding the dragon's fate... And with Piebald's inexplicable disappearance, the dragon was his only link to life before infiltrating  The Cult and of who he was before this group. It didn't help that Piebald had been the one whom knew their local contacts either (leaving Nox no way to check in with his own employers bereft wearing the Harp more openly-- and that was decidedly unadvised around strangers)

Like Myarra, Lennox wasn't too keen on stepping foot into the House of Lathander... unlike her though, he stated that he would take up post outside and await their departure. While he was pretty sure he wouldn't be struck dead by The Morninglord himself, he held no such faith in his followers.

Nolan felt uneasy leaving the tower area for so long, thinking that it wouldn't be there when he got back, or someone with more experience would take it over and kick him out. So, most of his time was spent in silence, thinking of every more he thought the group should make to get their objective done in the gardens. When talking to the priests of Lathander about the evil mace and where it came from, he also told them about the fights with the Cult of the Dragon and hoped he could get some help from the temple here. The next morning, Nolan had a list of things to do and wanted to get them done as quickly as possible.

Purposely making sure that Nox and I have the same shift to watch overnight on the journey.

I try to find out more about him and his obsession with Culver.  At the same time letting him know that he needs to relax and have a little fun when he can.  Obsessions can get in the way of enjoying some of the pleasures in life.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:13, Sun 01 Jan 2017.

Twiggy looked at Byron and the inn with a new curiosity and then excitement "So you ate telling me we can meet a good dragon if we stay here long enough? I am going to get some answers from the innkeep.  My grand dad always told me stories about being the butt of a practical joke by a crystal dragon so I know they have senses of humors. This story is great, now lets go try their ale and stew."

Anything is possible Twiggy.  But don't get your hopes up on a story that is almost a century old.  I know Amos has some ummmm unusual items for sale or trade depending on the offer.  I even know what a small number of them are.  It's been over a year since I was last there so he may even have something new and unusual if you are interested.

Roen woke early that morning and was wandering around town to get a feel for the place again. It looked a bit more beat up than the last time he was here, but there were improvements as well. When he was approached by town guards, it didn't take much for him to explain who he was before they sent him on his way. When he caught up to everyone again after they got their share of the treasure, Roen informed everyone where he was going to be at.

"Well, I'm off to the town hall, so if anyone needs me, I'll be there."

Aliana will keep her eye out for a temple of Oghma, or, failing that, a friendly ally's temple, in which to check and make offerings.

"Why would you go to the town hall?" Amara asked Roenthelm. She had no particular place to be, but also did not want to be wandering around the town on her own. Her kind were not well appreciated here.

PM

"Well, since you're asking, I plan on paying off everyone's taxes, starting with the poor. I've asked one of the priests of Lathander to accompany me as proof that I'm not a fraud. I just feel this money can be used to help out the citizens of this town to relieve any troubles they might have. With their debts erased, a family could now afford new shoes for their children, buy a new cart for their job, fix a leaky roof, cure a sick relative. Whatever they wish. I'm just not going to donate the money and hope for the best because the best will never happen because of greed. If you wish to accompany me, I'd enjoy your company."

Since entering the city, Kali was overwhelmed by what she saw. With Raieylan hiding outside the city, her usual support was now not at her side, so she was quiet and unsure of herself. Walking behind myarra, she was awed by the sight, but also intimidated....she had never seen a town other than the one she once lived in, and Hough only small, she thought that a big dwelling.

Now she was out of her element and relied on her friends.

She decides that she will follow Byron. "Byron....may I accompany you. I would like to see his wares." Her voice was softer and more unsure in this city background.

Twiggy enjoys a large breakfast placing fresh fruits into his porrage and lots of tarts. Raising his eyebrows at the good nature of Roenthelm he could only wonder if his helping will come to hurt. Poor people will flock to this town once they find out rich adventurers are spending money as such.  Twiggy has always found it is better to give money to a trusted few to doll out when most needed. Shrugging he turns to his breakfast again.

Once done with breakfast he decides to go walk around town and find out some information on what has been happening for the last twenty years "If anyone needs me I will be walking around town learning what I can. If any want to join then they are more than welcome."  Twiggy goes and has a stroll , buying lots of treats to give to the kids and learn the stories of their parents. Strangers in town, monsters in the area, Dragon stuff, the usual gossip moms and dads talk about in front of kids.



14:39, Today: Twiggy Flinch rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  gather information

That's very nice of you, Roenthelm. Just watch your back. Someone might want more than just their debts being paid off. Riches always brings trouble. I will accompany you to the town hall as I think this will attract much attention. The rest of you go and shop for your supplies and upgrades. The item I'm thinking about won't be sold for months, if it ever does.

Aliana, before she left, talked to Myarra.
"I was going through my sachel of holding, and I have more money than I thought.   is it too late to make an offer on the other sword? "

Byron smiles at the suddenly very insecure Kali.

Sure.  Maybe you will find something you like.  I wonder what he's going to offer for my used armor.  You should have been here the first time I went in to his shop.  Now there's a story Alstadin could tease me about for years to come.  I can tell it to you along the way if you want to hear it. Ry's avoiding the folk outside of town, right?

Kali can hear my concern for the big cat as my tone changes from lighthearted to serious.

While the group splits up and goes "shopping", Twiggy wanders around looking for tid-bits of information by giving out sweets to the kids and chit chatting with them for stories. He hears the Dragon owning the inn down the road from a couple kids, another kid said he saw a man with a monster painted on his chest plate, another saying there is dragons in the woods to the east and another kid says a group of adventurers went into the forest and didn't come back...

------------------------------

Roenthelm, Nolan and Amara meet up at the Town hall, where a priest of Lathander is waiting with 4 Official looking "politicians" and 6 city guardsmen. When the priest recognizes the group approaching and points to you 3, the politicians talk to each other and greet Roenthelm with confused looks on their faces. Roen has seen this before. He looks homeless himself, so why give away all this money? Roen knows they won't understand his logic.

"Greetings, sirs and.....lady." a politician said to the 3 of you "The Lathanderite here said you have a tidy sum of coin and would like to pay off the poor's debt? I assure you, sir, that we can distribute the wealth where they could be used properly."

---------------------------

The rest of the group: Byron, Kalli, Lennox, Myarra and Aliana wander around town, visiting shops and checking out what they have for sale. Merchants always treat customers like gold...when they know they have it.

Amara raised an eyebrow at Roenthelm's answer. "That is very generous of you. And hopefully, it will bring much good to many people. I will join you. Why do you give so much to strangers with whom you may have nothing in common with?" She queried more, genuinely curious. While she would contribute to her goddesses, she relied upon their priests to ensure the money went where it needed. Going directly to the city commission seemed very odd to her.

As she went, she kept her eyes open for any drow like herself. There were few on the surface, but she would be curious to visit them if she knew of any.

But she quieted when they reached the group waiting for them. She looked at the politicians suspiciously.

"Ahh, but there you have mistaken, Lady Amara. Every being in these lands share one thing that I'm willing to bear for them and that is suffering. I will suffer so a child can have food, or clothes or be healthy so they can go to school. With this money, I can take these sufferings away."

When the politician started talking, Roen studied the man as he talked with him,

Roenthelm rolled 26 using 1d20+12.  Sense Motive.

"I'm sure you can. That's why you have been elected to your position and I'm sure you do it well. But, the money is mine to give, so why are you trying to spend it for me by distributing the wealth where it could be used properly? I'm a priest of Ilmater and will take on any hardship that is required of me and right now I would like to know the names of the people I'm helping."

Roenthelm rolled 24 using 1d20+13.  Diplomacy.

Twiggy listens to the kids and enjoys their stories. These stories can have grains of truth though. He wonders if the "adventurers" were this group and presses further to find out. He also inquires deeper about the man with a monster on his breastplate, that seemed odd enough.

Well, there are privacy rights, to start. Nolan thought to himself

Nolan watched the conversation between Roenthelm and the politicians, wondering if the guards were here to assist or arrest. Word gets out that somebody is giving away money and it could cause a riot. It would also attract thieves and bandits on the group and the cult was already enough, so Nolan spoke up.

It's admirable what you're doing, Roenthelm, and I understand your concern over politicians doing the right thing, but if you're concerned that the money won't be spent where you want it to go, donate it to the major temples in town. They will spend it where it needs to go and they will have the man power to help out the poor.

Amara stood quietly, warily watching. She let Roenthelm and Nolan do the talking.

Talking with Kali as we make our way to Amos' Armory.

So I had just turned 14 when I walked into Amos' Amory.  He had this great sword hanging on the wall behind him.  It was polished till it gleamed in the light and looked as sharp as Ry's claws.  I asked Amos how much he wanted for it.  He laughed at me and said boy you will never grow into that sword.  You see at the time I was 5 foot nothing and barely a hundred pounds.  I asked Amos what I had to do to prove I could handle that sword.  He told me and 2 months later I had earned enough by working for him when I wasn't working on my parents farm for it.  My dad now has that sword as I gave it to him a couple of years later when I acquired the one I currently use.  Both are still polished to same gleam and razor sharp.

Myarra rose a little later than normal, and moved a bit slower, but she was just in time to join the others as they left the inn.  She smiled to herself at Roenthelm's intentions.  It's not that she mocked his generosity, far from it, but surely the man knew that politicians were not the friends of the poor.  She wished him well, but wasn't inclined to watch that battle play out.

She considered approaching Kalli as a companion for a stroll, but Byron struck first ... of course.  She smiled again, but for a much different reason, and left the two of them alone.

She looked around again for another companion and then thought ... why bother?  It's not that she minded people, especially good people like these, but maybe some time alone would be good.

With a will she pictured her mother in her head and activated the circlet, shrinking (to all appearances) to a mere five foot, losing the wings, horns, grey skin, and fangs, and appeared for all the world like a normal human woman.  Her sword and armor remained, no point making people think she was vulnerable, but also shrunk down to fit.

"I'm going to go to the central square and nap by the fountain.  I don't mind company if anybody wants to drop by, but otherwise I'll see you all later."

And unless something happens, she'll spend the morning sitting in the sunlight, watching children play, and sampling from the local vendors carts for tidbits and drinks, and return to see how things went in the early afternoon.

Twiggy has some fun talking with the kids while eating some snacks...

-----------------------------
Myarra wanders around town instead of shopping with the group, taking in the scenes and enjoying being by herself taking a nap, watching the kids and just enjoying herself for a change. She was starting to doze off when she heard some sweeping noises. She looks around to see a somewhat dirty fellow cleaning up the streets about 10 feet from her and dumping it into a wooden box that he has on a cart. He also picks some tid-bits of trash out of the fountain before washing his face when he thought nobody was looking...

-----------------------------

The politician apologized to Roenthelm and tried to reassure him that he wasn't trying to manipulate him out of his money.

"Rest assured sir, we would do our best with the funds given, but we just can't give out private information about our citizens. We would use the money to help pay the city guard, maintain the city walls and over-all upkeep of the city, which would include helping the poor as you wish to do. If you wish to be more personally involved, you could help with the temples. But, listen to your friend. It's very generous of you to want to donate, but don't leave yourself vulnerable. Money does things to people."

-----------------------------

The rest of you shopping, what are you looking for? (You can create a list in the OOC or PM me.) Merchants offer all sorts of stuff for the adventurer, but you guys aren't rookies anymore. You really know what you need out there, so you ignore most of the junk they're offering....

After listening and thinking about what was being said to him, Roen decided that they were right. It wasn't his business to get personally involved in a person's life, just because he wanted to pay their debt. So, he decided to take their advice.

"OK, I understand where you all are coming from and I've decided to donate to the city and the major temples in town." Roen said to the group "How many temples are in town?"

I open the door to Amos' shop letting Kali enter first as I call out.

Hey Amos!

Amara continued to watch the politicians suspiciously.

The scruffy shop keeper looks to the door after his name was called and is surprised to see a face he hasn't seen in awhile...

"Well, well, well, boy. Been awhile since I see ya last. Thought you were dead."

Yeah, yeah.  That's what you get for calling me boy.  I tease back.

I actually came in to discuss a transaction or two.  The pretty young lady here is my friend Kali.  She might be interested in some of your wares as well. 

Kali smiled at theshipkeeper, and immediately went to look at spears when something caught her eye. In a corner, a dusty looking scimitar lay unused and seemingly unwanted.

With a furrow of her brow, she indicates the small sword. "What can you tell me about that sword there....the scimitar."

There are three temples to my knowledge. One to Gond, Chauntea and Lathander.

Twiggy continues to play games with the kids.

Amos,  I'm hoping you have a dozen silver tipped bolts for my heavy crossbow that you said I was crazy for wanting in the first place.  That thing has never jammed on me and has been pretty accurate as well.  Looking around the shop as I make my way over to Kali to see what has caught her eye.

Myarra regards the street sweeper. She's not sure why he caught her eye, the profession being a disreputable, but vitally important one, and it was perfectly normal to see one ... or several ... in a city square.  From under lowered lids, she watches him for a minute, for all the world seeming to be just a warrior dozing by the fountain.

"Excellent. I will divide the treasure by four." Roen explained "The town hall will get a share and the three temples will get a share." Looking to the politicians, "I'm sure I will be coming back here, so if I see council members with new clothes or anything fancy while the poor suffer, I will be very disappointed. But, I think you'll make the right decisions."

Roen makes his donation to the town of Soubar.

"I've been alive for almost 60 winters, so you will always be BOY." Amos laughed as he looked at Kalli with interest "I see why you still be alive. You better be protectin' her."



"Well, little lady, that be a friend of mines. He's coming back one day to claim it." Amos said as he wiped the dust off of it.



"Where you two headed that you need such weapons?" Amos asked "You not be puttin this lady in danger, are ye?"

She has a protector, and he's bigger than me.  However, I do enjoy her company very much. Byron says with a straight face and total serious conviction.

Actually we ran in to some ghouls and ghasts a couple of days ago.  While I prefer this monster of a sword you said I would never master, it doesn't hurt to be able to reach out and touch something a bit further out.

Taking a good look at Kali and the scimitar.  She does have good taste in weapons.  That looks well used but well cared for.

I've also acquired some nicer armor and since my original suit won't fit my older brother I figured I'd see what you would offer me for it first.

The politicians reassure Roenthelm that the money will be spent properly and graciously thank him for his donation. Talks of fortifying the walls, digging a new well and hiring more town guards is talked about along with improvements on handling the poor. The town guards seem relieved that they won't have to be doing crowd control and are happy to go back to their posts. The priest of Lathander speaks up,

"If you don't need any more assistance from me sir, I will be returning to the Temple."

-----------------
Myarra peeks through an eyelid at the street sweeper. He appears to be middle aged, with greying hair. He's dressed like a homeless person and he smells like booze. His skin is well tanned like he's been out in the sun for a long time and you spy a few scars on his arms, which tells you that he has seen some fights. He seems to be doing his job, but the occasional glance at you would say that he's just a man checking out a pretty lady.

Amos just smiles and seems to be impressed.



"Silver arrows will do you no good there, Boy. You should hire a priest to take care of them."



"Where you learn how to use a Scimitar, lass?" Amos asked Kali



"If it be the same I sold ye, I'll give you fair market value. As for the arrows, I can have some made. Common value."

Starting to feel the strain kf ligging around his saddlebags brimming with coin, Nox asks the others to see who among them (if any) might have a fair eye for appraising the value of gemstones and/or jewelry-- barring finding someone capable of tendering gold for platinum, that was his best bet short if storing his wealth unattended at the tower.

Kali, still a little shy, smiled atcthe man. "I learnt from my mentor, an elven druid named Kaelyian. She is the finist swordsman in the order." She looked at the sword, it reminding her of her former teacher.

She looked at the man. "She taught me the value that any weapon in the right hands can be deadly. i once saw her defeat a group of orcs with her scimitar skills"

She looked at the sword again.

"It is a shame such a fine sword is gathering dust."

Yes the armor is the same suit that I got from you a couple of years ago.  I've done my best to keep it in good repair.  How long before you have the crossbow bolts for me then?

We travel with a priestest of Oghma.  However there are times when more of the undead show up than a priestest can get rid of.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:33, Mon 09 Jan 2017.

Myarra smiled. It was a pretty good day, overall.  The sun was bright and warm, the water from the fountain cool.  And a nice (she assumed) old man found her attractive enough to sneak peeks at.  It was pleasant to hear the buzz of humans (and elves and dwarves, etc) all around her; to be one with the crowd, yet still alone, like a rock in the middle of a torrential river.

It was a pity it wouldn't last.  Soon she'd have to rejoin the others for the trip back to Daak, then out into the forest again.   But in the meantime, she could just relax and imagine herself at the helm of an airship, soaring over the hills and forests of the world, carrying rich folks and rich folk's cargo from fabled city to fabled city ... at reasonable rates, of course.  And all she needed to pull it off was lots and lots of money.  Hence the trip back to Daak and out into the forest.  Sure, evil needed to be vanquished, that was a given.  But being paid to vanquish evil was better than not being paid. Especially when you got paid by the very evil you were vanquishing.

"My friend who used to own this was a Druid as well. That was long ago when I was your age." Amos said as he pulled the scimitar out and handed it to Kali "Try it out. If you like it, you can make a down-payment if you want to buy it."



"Bring it in. I'll buy it from you. I'll have my assistant make you some bolts. Have them done tomorrow this time."



"That's when your Wizard should Fireball them."

"No temple to Mystra here?" Amara asked Nolan as Roenthelm gave his gift to the town. For that goddess to be so active in this region, she had expected a good size temple to her here.

The woman holds out her hands and receives it as if it were a babe. The young woman had some skills with scimitars, but recently took to using a spear.

She grasped the hilt and made a few movements with it, the light blade moving smoothly with her motions. The Druid smiled with the scimitar, and returned it reluctantly.

"I truely love this blade good sir...and would be honoured to wield it." Her smile faded for a second. "If it is intended for someone else, then I cannot willingly take it, but if it has no owner I will gladly mae payments on it."

Except when there is not enough room to use it without injuring the rest of the party.

Watching Kali handle the blade Byron can't help but admire her skill with it.

I've got the armor with me now.

The closest temple dedicated to her is in Scornubel.

"Set it on the table here and I'll get your money for you."



Amos' gruff appearance goes away for a few seconds, "I haven't seen my friend in almost 30 years and I don't think I will again. I stayed here in Soubar for his return, but if he was going to return, he would have by now. If you wish to make a payment on it, I'll write ya a receipt. The scimitar needs to be used again. It's not meant to be collecting dust on a wall."

I put the armor on the table. Laying it out so that Amos can see everything is there and in very good condition.

Take out what I owe you for the silver tipped crossbow bolts.  I'll pay for them now as I know you will deliver as you always have before.

Turning to look at Kali and seeing her still moving the blade around thoughtfully but carefully.

I think that blade likes you as much as you like it.

The street sweeper smiles at Myarra, whether or not she was looking at him. He continues to sweep around the fountain area and then eventually goes to another area to do his job. Looking around at the people doing their "thing" around town, Myarra spots 2 familiar little people walking with a grown-up doing some grocery shopping: Amanda and Willie.

---------------------

While looking to exchange his gold for something much lighter, Lennox has the feeling that he's being watched as he wandered around town....

----------------------

Amara, Roenthelm and Nolan arrive at the Temple dedicated to Lathander...

She looked at the sword with a smile. She also flashes Byron a smile as warm as a sun. "It is a beauitful blade....I only wish I had the funds to take it today. Alas a humble Druid rarely collects money, but for this blade, I just might."

She looks at Amos with appreciation, all shyness disappearing."Then if you feel that way, we have an agreement." She looks at Byron with a smile and takes her pack off. "We have recently come into some money and I will gladly give my share to you good sir as payment." She looks on her hand at the newly acquired ring but thinks better of selling that, and she had no intention of selling the boots. Instead, she looks at the bracers on her arm with a smile.

"These bracers were also a part of what was found...I will gladly give them as part payment as well. They hold a minor protection enchantment on them."

Having been on the verge of returning to the others to consult them in hopes of finding a wingman for bartering his coin to gold, Nox casually works his way away from the more crowded areas in hopes of finding a choke point or blind corner with which to test his theory of being watched or followed.

As she does her own shopping, Aliana stopped by the various temples and made donations (since there wasn't one to her god).

OK, we're here. But, I have a question. Why are you giving away all your money? If you're going to be traveling with us into the dangers of the forest, you're going to need protection. Certainly more than your worn out clothes and your bare fists.

Lennox easily finds a blind corner up ahead between a Mercantile shop and a Leather Worker shop.....

With a smile and a soft whistle Nox dips around that blind corner and settles in to wait.

After making her rounds to various temples, she was at the Lathander temple and saw Nolan.  She walked over to the wizard.
"Hello, Nolan.  I was wondering if I could ask a favor?"

While waiting for Roenthelm to answer him, Aliana came up to him and asked him for a favor. Not many of the party asked him for anything, so when one did, Nolan smiled.

Sure, what do you need?

"I'm giving away all my money because I don't need it and the poor do. I've dedicated my life to serving Ilmater and even though I'm not much to look at, I am still very capable. Don't judge a book by it's cover."

Nolan was a bit taken aback with Roenthelm's haughtiness and wanted to reassure his new comrade that he wasn't trying to be insulting,

No offense, Roenthelm. We all appreciate the efforts you have done and if you say you are capable, then I believe you.