"I'm sorry, I've never done this before!" called out Imbellem.

He pulled down on his end of the rope and hastily tied it to the railing in a clumsy knot. The ship could be heard lightly scraping against the side of a sand barge next to them. Wind filled the sails and gave the ship strength. Finally, it lurched free of the shallow mound. Their speed returned with a jolt as the ship suddenly resumed its former pace, causing a good stumbling for the amateur sailors on deck. But it was a welcome stumble. If they had been beached, it would have been a real pain to break free.

But the obstacle of the sand barge meant another thing too. The passage over the deep seas was over. They were here. Ahead them beyond the bow of the ship lay Comoset Isle, and at this very moment they were taking their vessel into calm waters where they planned to anchor.

It had taken three days sailing from Herrod to Comoset Isle, which turned out to be an easy course directly south after rounding Herrod's peninsula. Though what made it difficult was the fact that they had only two members to sail the damn thing. The plan for the group was simple. Imbellem and Mikael were to deliver a letter to the dwarves here on behalf of Herrod's newly elected Great Council, and when finished, to sail back up to Deon's Rise and pick up the others, who would be waiting there by then. The letter had something to do with re-establishing old trade ties that had waned in recent decades, mostly due to policies enacted by Herrod's pirates. But now that Herrod's Pirate Lord had been slain, and the collapse of his organization which followed, the Great Council was excitedly leaping toward new possibilities.


Comoset Isle was a healthy sight different than the isle of Perdane. While Herrod was surrounded by gentle, grassy hills, Comoset had real mountains, which stood as hazy gray monuments in the distance and grew throughout the heart of the isle. The coastal area where they were, however, was flat, though covered with a dense forest that stretched all the way to the foothills of the mountain range. Whereas Herrod was steadily warm, warm enough that palm trees grew on the coastal beaches, there wasn't a palm tree in sight here. There was only pine, the hardiest and manliest kind of tree. Over the past three days while crossing the sea, the air steadily dropped in temperature ten degrees each day. Now the adventurers wore heavy garb, dressed for the occasion.

"There it is!" shouted Mikael from the fore of the ship.

After sailing close to the shore so that the first line of trees became visible in all their features, they noticed what they were looking for exactly where it was supposed to be. It was an old ruin that stood on an island not far from the mainland. The island was very small, big enough just to support the ancient fortress that had been built on it; the fortress itself had long crumbled away. It was exactly what they were told to find it. All the journey they had worried they were going to miss it, being novices at navigation, but anxious and repeated checking of their course led them to land on the right spot on the isle. The ruin, called Old Falahar, was also a trading outpost of the Comoset dwarves, and it was there they were supposed to deliver their letter to the magistrate, or whatever dwarves called their officials. It looked like this journey was going to be as easy as they hoped. Of course, that never happens.

Casting anchor near the island, Imbellem and Mikael (not forgetting the letter) excitedly leapt into the the skiff and lowered it into the water; and for those of you who don't know, a skiff is very much like a rowboat made for going to shore and back. Each using an oar, they quickly rowed to the island shore; they beached it, jumped out, and pulled their skiff well out of the water, so that high tide or an unusually large wave wouldn't steal it away. Finally they had set foot down on another isle. They were someplace new.

Imbellem and Mikael climbed up a rise of dry dirt and crested onto the top of the island. They walked into the ruins. There were no doors or anything, for the walls of Old Falahar had long fallen away completely in several places. So you could say there were numerous doors! They entered into its main courtyard, expecting to meet a settlement of dwarves right away. They were definitely excited to see something new.

The first thing they felt was a dash of disappointment, but this was quickly replaced with concern. The place was empty. There wasn't a dwarf in sight. They knew they were in the right place, however, for there were signs of recent life everywhere. Wooden buildings had been erected inside the walls as sleeping quarters, storehouses, offices. And out in the open was a large fire pit full of new, unburnt wood, as though someone was about to start a bonfire and decided not to at the last second. Doors hung ajar from their frames; its occupants haven't even bothered to close them. Lastly, the ground was covered with small objects, kitchen utensils, footprints, wagon tracks, all in a chaotic mess through the courtyard grounds.

Things were starting to become clear. The dwarves had abandoned the outpost, recently, and in a serious hurry.

Just as Imbellem and Mikael were becoming worried, especially as to what the hell they were going to do next, they noticed they weren't alone, for someone had approached the courtyard and was watching them from not twenty feet away. Standing beneath the arch of a ruin, staring at them with dark savage eyes was a human man. He carried a weapon. And his hands were covered in blood.

[Private to Godric Lothar: You, Godric Lothar, had just been gutting a deer when you heard the sounds of two men enter the fortress. You've been on Comoset Isle for a little while now. You also happen to know where the dwarves have gone. From the forest, you saw them leaving and heading farther inland, likely to their castle of Shelterpeak, their main settlement. However you're not certain why they left as you didn't get a chance to talk to them.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:02, Thu 11 Feb 2016.

The 2 strangers examine me, a bit nervous about the blood and a javelin out,but I'm not holding it up in a threatening way. They see a large man, wrapped in thick clothing and furs furs. "I bet you to are looking for the dwarves? Not sure why but they all up and left just yesterday. What are you doing here anyways? Haven't seen many people come this way in a while.

Imbellem looked up at the stranger. In his experience, he would rather face a man with a weapon than cross large (or small) bodies of water, so he was less nervous than he should have been. Moving his cloak to the side, he rested his forearm on his warhammer, to show that he too was armed, but rested on it non threateningly.

"Interesting." He said plainly. He man raised a questioning eyebrow, "I Just find it interesting that we come here to a ransacked building which appears to be some sort of outpost and are not met with soldiers, but instead a man with blood on his weapon. What is it you are doing here sir? Surely we wont have any sort of problems will we?" The laugh that followed was a strange mixture of nervousness and cockiness.

"I personally came because I needed to feel an adventure in a new land. I felt as if I was gathering dust in perdane after the events of... a certain event, and needed to stretch my legs. Plus there is a particular man im looking for, perhaps he is on this island." From a safe distance, he asked the man. Short sweet and to the point- "What manor of blood is on your spear?...or would you happen to know when they left, seems as if they took off in a hurry. As if they were attacked- caught with their pants down." he added, looking at the fireplace with the new longs, left unlit for who knows what reason.

Imbellem looks about for any sort of clues as to what made them take off in such a mannor
Imbellem Tueri rolled 23 Spot check, signs/clues for sudden leave of dwarves.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:38, Thu 11 Feb 2016.

"In all my years of being a board a ship, I never sailed with someone so CLUELESS!" Mikael vented towards Imbellem. He flexed his fingers after his hands spent hours gripped onto the wheel while Imbellem manned the ropes. Although he conveniently forgot to mention to Imbellem that all of the years consisted of himself being a passenger and never a part of the actual operations, but why miss the opportunity to blame someone else.


Mikael did not even notice the man until he spoke. He was too buried in thought on where all of the dwarves are. Finally seeing the man who was speaking to them he took a moment to examine him. "Oh hello, almost didn't see you there." Mikael took a moment to put a hand on the hilt of the new weapon hanging by his side. (After Imbellem speaks) "We are simply carrying a message from Herrod, but it looks like those who we were expecting to meet here, are not among this place."

After their introduction concludes, Mikael takes a moment to look around the immediate area for any signs of anyone else or where anyone might have gone. {Search check}
10:43, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 14 using 1d20+4.  Search check.


This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Thu 11 Feb 2016.

Strangers in a strange place. Cautious but polite, balancing between the two, the strangers stood in the courtyard and traded words. It was a conversation that couldn't be called friendly, but nor could it be called unfriendly either, as neither party raised their weapons to change the state of affairs. But nonetheless their weapons remained at their side in an open display, letting the other know what scenarios could befall them should that politeness fade away.

Spot Check {Imbellem} ~ While speaking, Imbellem let his eyes wander over the abandoned fortress. Small objects of little value were scattered across the grounds, among which there were numerous scraps of rope and nails. Wagon tracks dug deep ruts, especially where there was no grass. These were clues. Though perhaps the most important clue was the absence of other clues, the absence of blood, bandages, and weapons, and other things that would normally indicate a battle. Imbellem tried to discern the meaning of this.

Search Check {Mikael} ~ Mikael followed up by daring to wander by foot, sauntering away from the stranger and peering into some of the buildings. They had been thoroughly emptied out, save for some sparse furniture. He looked to see if someone was around, but each corner of the ruin was as empty as the next. His foot then stumbled as it caught in the rut of a wagon track. This gave him an idea.

He followed the wagon track, which merged with every other wagon track, and walked to the south side of the ruin. The ruin wasn't large, so he could still be near Imbellem should he need to. Mikael stepped beneath one of the many collapsing arches opening to the outside world, and from there gained a view of the nearby mainland. Pines crowded the landscape until being broken by mountains beyond. On a personal tone, he felt very far from home for a moment, but this soon faded.

From this vantage, however, he also gained a view of where the wagon tracks went. They continued down a gradual slope on the south side of the fortress where there was a short wooden bridge to the mainland. And a dirt road lay beyond that. Now they were getting somewhere.

For a moment Mikael became lost in thought as he planned their next course of action. But this contemplation was oddly difficult, as thoughts of a more personal nature intruded on him. However, this reverie was abruptly disturbed upon hearing a sudden cry of pain. The cry came from Imbellem!

[Private to Imbellem Tueri: Your warhammer fell on your toe!]

Chat (edit in progress)

Godric: Oh... the blood, I just killed a deer. I was butchering it when I saw your ship arrive here. I'm not sure about the dwarves, the were headed inland, probably to shelter keep. I'm just exploring here. I come from the neighboring isle and have been traveling for some time in search of adventure.

Mikael: Ha! And you were scared Imbellem. I knew it was animal blood.

Imbellem: Why didnt you tell me then... So uh, where is this deer at per-say

Mikael: Well I just thought you would figure it out. Oh by the way, I am Mikael.

Imbellem: paranoia keeps people alive, my dear elf friend.
Imbellem -nod-

Godric: It's been a while since I've been around people. I sometimes forget manners. My name is Godric. I have a small camp a few hundred yards into the forest. That's where the deer is.

Imbellem: Interesting. So these dwarves you say, they moved inland? Why did they take off in such a hurry, -points out fresh logs in the fireplace-

Godric: I don't know. I was just minding my own business and I heard them go by. they have a keep towards the middle of the island. That's is their home base, and I bet they were going there. I'd be curious to find out what could have caused them to leave so suddenly and leave everything out like this

Imbellem: when they left, were they in a hurry or worried? or was it a calm march
Well looks like we know where to start heading then

Godric: Honestly I wasn't paying much attention to them. I was on the trail of a deer. Didn't seem terribly hurried. I would be able to lead you towards their keep. But first I want to finish butchering this deer. Haven't eaten in a day


Imbellem: If they werent in a hurry, i suppose letting you finish wouldnt cause much of an issue with time... considering youre a fast cleaner
We would appreciate the guide. We'll happily wait.

Godric: I could even let you have some. I won't be able to eat it all before it goes bad.

Imbellem: Very kind, it would be appreacted
And seeing as dwarves are a stocky and heavy footed folk, from what knowledge I have of dwalin.. Their trail wouldnt be hard to follow.

Godric: They certainly aren't the most quiet folk. Not that I'm much better, Ha.

Imbellem: Quiet enough to get a deer though.
quite the feat with a heavy boot

Godric: When you grow up in the wilderness hunting and foraging becomes second nature
This message was last edited by the player at 15:44, Mon 15 Feb 2016.

After our short introduction, my curiosity got the best of me, and like the others, I decided to have a look around as well. Midway through my searching I'm startled by a yell of pain. It sounded like one of the visitors! I quickly headed towards the sound with my weapon out and ready in case of a fight.

Godric quickly turned, spear in hand after the shout let from the cleric. What he turned to see was not what he expected...

A warhammer on the ground, and a man of the cloth doing his best to not curse under his breath.

"Sorry, sorry," He said, gingerly placing his foot on the ground and limping to his weapon. "This is a new piece," he said, picking up the hammer and dusting it off before making sure it was secure on his belt, "Not used to the weight displacement... *ahem* so, shall we head to the dwarven keep then?" He concluded, in an attempt to redirect the attention off of his foolishness.

[Private to DM Ryan: Imbellem Tueri rolled 19 Spot check, Godrick. Gear, class, etc.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:41, Mon 15 Feb 2016.

Mikael was nearly lost in his thoughts while searching the surrounding area. He enjoyed the moments he could have to spend alone with his own thoughts. But of course, those thoughts were fleeting and were overcome by the screams of Imbellem. Mikael let out a large sigh as he stopped in his tracks and looked to the ground. He thought, "Well either this stranger Godric has chosen to redirect the pointy end of his spear into the side of Imbellem. OR... Imbellem dropped that hammer onto his own foot... again..." Mikael considered for a moment until he concluded, "Yeah it's the second one."

Mikael made his way back to where the other two were. He kept his weapons sheathed and simply walked back at a brisk pace. "Is it really that difficult to carry that hammer? How many times does this make it? Get it together buddy."

After stifling his laughter, Mikael told the others of what he found on his walk. "Looks like there are some wagon trails. They go to the south and over a bridge. I think that's where we need to go."

Imbellem refastened his warhammer to his belt, face red from a dash of embarrassment, but moreso from his foot. His warhammer had slipped away from him and landed on his toe. He put aside the worries of his companions with an awkward laugh. He was alright. Godric, breathing heavily, lowered his javelin. His body was on edge for a fight, reflecting a long-trained reflex. Mikael on the otherhand exhibited a different kind of reflex. He hadn't even drawn his sword and walked back to Imbellem with a knowing smirk; he had known him long enough to guess what had happened. Warhammer back in place, Imbellem smiled back at them, "Ahem, so... Shall we head to the dwarven keep then?"


Crossing the bridge that connected Old Falahar with Comoset, the adventurers entered the forest. Only one road continued from the bridge, and so their heading was clear. They followed the road into the dense wilderness of pines. A range of mountains towered not far in the distance.

Like the ground of the fortress ruin, wagon tracks carved deep ruts into the dirt road. Dwarven footprints were engraved into numerous muddy places. They were on the right trail.

After walking a short ways, Godric halted their procession, and led them off the road into the forest. They didn't have to go far before reaching his camp, which was setup up on low ridge in a clearing. Mikael and Imbellem were surprised by how he lived. Only a few animal furs spread across the ground, which were protected from rain and snowfall by a tarp-like tent, strung up from the trees with rope. From one tree hung a deer, suspended in midair with a cut down its stomach. And tied to another tree was a horse, which they presumed belonged to Godric. This horse, it should be said, was alive and well and nibbling on a crop of tall grass.

From the higher parts of the ridge, someone could get a decent look of the road and Old Falahar; they could even see Mikael and Imbellem's ship, which would explain how Godric knew someone would be there.

Godric immediately set to starting a fire. They were going to feast on deer before setting off on their journey.

While Godric and Mikael set to work on the meal, Imbellem took this opportunity to look around. He meandered along the ridge and surrounding trees in aimless exploration. The spruce trees grew tall here, towering above him with their dark green needles lightly frosted from the night. They cast these needles outward against the world, like a porcupine trying protect itself. As if the world was a threatening place.

Imbellem neared the topped of the ridge when he stumbled upon something interesting. Here, partially buried into the ground, were three standing stones in a circle. Their arrangement was no accident. Each of the stones were decorated with glyphs, which Imbellem guesses might have some meaning to a dwarf. The location overlooked a lake at the base of the ridge's opposite side. It was a quiet place.


[Private to Imbellem Tueri: #Error. Seeing what someone is wearing doesn't use a Spot Check. This uses an "Examine" which doesn't require a roll (but I'm going to make you do it again so you remember this time!). To see a person's class and gain information as to their abilities, this requires a "Knowledge: Adventure" Check.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:59, Mon 15 Feb 2016.

Once the fire was going, Godric went right back to work on the deer. He worked with great speed and precision on removing the entrails and skin of the deer, and then removing the meat from the skeleton. It is obvious he has done this many times before. "Here, this should be enough for now. I assume you know how to cook?" Godric turned to Mikael and then looked at the growing pile of meat, signaling that he begin cooking wile Godric finished butchering. Just as the meat was finished cooking, Godric had stripped the deer carcass of all the meat and packed it into a sack."Well this should keep us all full for a few days." He said with great satisfaction as he held up a bag of meat that must have been near 30 lbs. Godric then took the sack, tied it to a rope and tossed it over a nearby tree branch to keep it elevated."Where did your friend go? It's time to eat."He said to Mikael as he looked around the camp seeing no sign of him.

After taking a few bites of the meat to taste it he realized he didn't know where Imbellem wandered off to either. "Heh, probably out swinging that hammer around trying not hit himself. I'm sure he'll show up soon enough. I for one won't lose sleep he has to eat cold food." Mikael went back to eating.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:48, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

Imbellem looked at the curious stones. Odd really, three stones with dwarven inscriptions all neatly stacked in a triangle... Perhaps the meant something? He studied them for a moment and walked back to the smell of venison.

"I heard that" He said in a blunt tone, Stepping down off a rock onto the ground next to the men, "Its only been a few times. I told you, it feels like the blasted thing is buzzing all the time... it tingles." After a short dispute about how many times 'a few times' really was, the cleric turned his attention to Godrick. "Those stones," he began mid chew, forgetting his manners, "Any idea what they are? They're very curious. And seeing as youve been camped here, i thought perhaps you could hand a machete to my intellectual thicket." A blank stare is all he got in return. "Er, if you could tell me anything about them that is. Sorry, Ive been using big words around a certian paladin for far too long..."

"After we eat, I pose that we move to the dwarven keep. Curiosity killed the cleric afterall, and I am simply dying to know whats going on here. In favor?"

[Private to DM Ryan: Imbellem takes the time while they eat to study this Godrick. What he wore, what weapons he used, and just what type of man he was based on words spoken and actions even he may not notice.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:54, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

Gathered around the fire, the adventurers ate deer meat strip by strip as each piece finished cooking. Before long they were full, and had a strong impulse to workout while this much protein raced through them. They spent a moment in silent contentment, the kind someone can experience only with a truly full stomach. [Private to Imbellem Tueri: Imbellem noted that Godric carried a lance and javelin with him, likely being his primary weapons. He wore a heavy set of bandedmail. From his rough features, you suspect he came from a barbaric background, but his demeanor would suggest he's seen much of the world since then.]

Knowledge ~ Imbellem, having been to the ridge, asked about the meaning of some standing stones up there, but none of his companions knew more than he. He pondered them for a bit, but he too hadn't the foggiest idea as to their meaning. He concluded they must be a dwarf thing.

Afternoon came upon them, and the sun shone overhead through cracks in the cloudy sky. Godric was the first to stand up and begin packing his things. If they were going to catch the dwarves, then they had to get going. Godric stowed his tent and furs and saddled his horse, and soon everything was ready for their departure. Imbellem and Mikael were ready well before that. At last, they set off in earnest and reconnected with the road, and were once again walking deeper inland into the forest. Their goal was to catch up with the dwarves from Old Falahar if they could, and their heading was the dwarven stronghold of Shelterpeak.

Godric related to them that the journey to Shelterpeak would take a full day on foot, and that they wouldn't reach it until some time tomorrow afternoon. This meant that they would have to setup camp for one night in the woods. However, the thought of this didn't bother them much. Although the air got colder as they neared the mountains, the land here was sublimely peaceful. The pine trees crowded the valleys and mountain slopes, and each timber stood with a kind of dignity, straight as a noble or some king. The treetops swayed only with the occasional strong gust, refusing to bend for anything less. And from what Godric told them, the deer and wildlife here were plentiful. No, it didn't bother them much at all.

The adventurers walked, Godric riding on his horse, and traveled for most of the day in relative peace. The only events to otherwise mark the passage of time was the sight of moose on a far hill, and the occasional bad joke from Imbellem. And later that evening, the adventurers entered into the mountain range. Some of the especially tall peaks were capped with snow, but most of these remained farther inland in the distance. Dusk came earlier than usual as the sun disappeared behind the western ridge.


The road then led them into a clearing of rugged brown grass. Trees were sparsely scattered here and there but remained dense around the perimeter. The first thing the adventurers noticed was an old fortress tower to the right hand side a short distance away. The second thing they noticed were some wagons up ahead. However, they didn't see any people nor horses with them.

Steadily they continued and reached the abandoned wagons. Some of them were intact, but others were shockingly smashed to pieces. Belongings remained tied down in the undamaged wagons while other items lay strewn and shattered next to the destroyed wagons that likely carried them. The adventurers had a haunting suspicion these belonged to the dwarves who fled Old Falahar. Mikael crouched next to a crop of grass which had a dark red color, sharply contrasting the brown clumps. He touched it with his fingers and quickly realized what it was. This didn't need any more explanation.

Dusk deepened and cast a pale twilight through the mountains. The adventurers felt a chill that said more than simply being cold. Hair stood on the ends of their necks, and something instinctual rose from the depths of their guts. That instinct told them exactly what they heard a moment later.

"RUN!" cried a distance voice. The adventurers, made alert by the sound, straightened up and located where it came from. From the direction of the fortress tower and running toward them was a dwarf. He was waving both his hands desperately trying to get their attention. He shouted at them again, this time closer and more audible. "FOLLOW ME TO THE TOWER! RUN YOU FOOLS! RUN!!!"

Suddenly there was a new sound. A thunderous roar boomed from the opposite direction, from the depths of the forest. The power of the cry was so intense that tremors shot through the ground. The adventurers put their hands to their ears to avoid being deafened. That chilling feeling expanded through their skin, screaming to them what it had tried to say earlier but said too quietly - that they were in a life or death moment.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:42, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

With a quick look in the distance of the roar in an attempt to see what caused it, Imbellem took off. After the events with Alldyde, he had been working on his cardio. Cloak flowing behind him as he ran, he shouted that the other two do the same. If this creature could shatter a wagon, it was safe to assume what it could do to a human body...

As he ran toward the keep toward the dwarves, Imbellem listened closely for the sounds of Godricks horse. Should he be able, as it passed, he would attempt to grab the saddle and run along side the horse (Native american style).

As much as he wanted to see what this creature was, he assured himself he could see though the keyhole of a barred door just as well.

Mikael quickly followed behind Imbellem. Being sure he didn't leave anything behind, he took a glance back to the campsite they were now fleeing from. He tried to catch a glimpse of the... thing, that was running towards them and after this dwarf. Determined to not slow down until they reached safety. "What is that thing?!" Mikael shouted to Godric and the dwarf.

Godric immediately looked towards the sound. Knowing he was much faster than his new companions, he took up the rear of the group. As they make their way to the tower he kept a distance of about 30 feet behind the others and kept watch at where the sound was coming. His fighting instincts taking over, he knew they would be better off if they knew what they were dealing with."I'll stay in the rear and try to get a look at it!" he shouted in response to Mikael.

Mikael and Imbellem ran at an all out sprint for the tower while Godric took the rear with his horse, as though shepherding them to safety. The dwarf who had gotten their attention had already turned and ran back to the tower and propped open a door at its base. He continued frantically waving at them to hurry, though no longer shouting. Feet and hooves thudded loudly on the frosted ground, accompanied by heavy breathing. And behind them, in the forest, the sound grew louder by the moment.

What began as a subtle vibration increased to a rumble. It felt as though they were fleeing an avalanche. Whatever was after them was big. And finally, at the crescendo of the world's trembling, came the climax of a sharp, splintering noise.

Several trees exploded from the treeline, either torn up by the roots or broken at the trunk. The adventurers could hear the shattering wood very clearly, despite the distance they put between them and the forest. Something burst from the forest and now ran on the open ground after them. Its footsteps thundered as though each leg had the weight of a boulder; and it was moving fast.

The adventurers glanced back, then immediately returned looking forward again. They wished they hadn't done that, and started working their legs even faster. It was pale-colored. It was big. And there were teeth. And it worst of all, it was gaining on them.

{Combat Rounds Enabled}




Unknown Creature
-Health: Uninjured
-Rating: Impossible
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:34, Mon 22 Feb 2016.

Mikael runs to the tower. Feeling the shaking of the ground beneath his feet, his only focus is making it into the tower. He rushes through the door and finds himself in the middle of the building looking for anything that could be of use to them.



21:40, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 23 using 1d20+4.  Search check; tower.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:40, Sat 27 Feb 2016.

Imbellem was running to fast and breathing too hard to be able to shout, the ground rumbled as the large creature charged for them.


As fast as he could, the priest bowled for the tower, straight for the open door with his head lowered and arms attempting to swim in the air, as if to make himself go faster.

Once inside, he bouced off the wall, and knelt down to catch his breath, he looked around and turned his attention to the dwarf, "You *hoo* what in the *hoo* devil is that *hoooo...* monster and how do we get it to go away?! Also who are you?... thank you for the sanctuary"



Imbellem Tueri rolled 21 using Knowledge dungeneering, creature.
Imbellem Tueri rolled 14 using Knowledge local, creature.

Breathing had never hurt this much before. Imbellem and Mikael felt their lungs trying to expand far more than they were capable of, but they didn't dare stop running. They could feel the tremors rippling through the ground, becoming more and more violent. The creature behind them was catching up. It roared again. Its cry shook their vision, causing everything to duplicate for a few moments before shifting back together. Their ears rang with a high-pitched tone.

The hooves of Godric's steed followed closely between them and the beast. They heard Godric yelling at them to hurry; their legs were already past their limit. The dwarf ahead held the door open for them, ushering them inside. He looked terrified. At last they flew through the door and into the tower. Godric swiftly dismounted and pulled his horse inside by the reins, though the horse needed no encouragement. Once all three were inside, the door slammed shut behind them. The dwarf who had helped them hadn't come inside.

He spoke through the door, "Don't open this door til sunrise - I must lure it off... Keep my brother safe."

The adventurers noticed the cot in the room was occupied by an unconscious dwarf whose head was wrapped in blood-soaked bandages. He looked seriously hurt.

Something that sounded like a barricade was shoved in front of the door. Then the dwarf ran. They could hear the fading of his heavy footsteps, accompanied by cries and hollars at the beast to get its attention. It seemed to be working, too, for if it hadn't, the beast would have already been at their door. Its thundering footsteps also lightened as it started in a perpendicular direction.

The adventurers huddled near the door, listening all they could. "Damn," they heard the dwarf curse. Then they heard him shout at the beast, "You, fluch dir hal de kan gettershuczen!" Ardently the dwarf roared a battlecry – it sounded as though he gave up on fleeing and turned to fight – but that battlecry suddenly changed into a cry of pain. Then, very abruptly, that cry completely vanished into nothing, accompanied by a tearing sound which sent shivers down the adventurer's spines.

They waited, listening at the door. They heard the beast moving outside. It was eating something. They waited still. Finally after a minute – which seemed more like an hour – the beast left, its footsteps audibly becoming fainter as it returned to the forest. That thing was gone, for now.

Inside the tower, they slumped on the ground, alone, save for the wounded dwarf in the cot. In one corner a number of provision had been stacked up, and at the foot of the dwarf's cot was an axe. Sunrise couldn't come sooner.

Knowledge Dungeoneering & Local ~ This wasn't something you'd seen before.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:14, Sun 28 Feb 2016.

Mikael took just a moment to catch his breath until he saw the dwarf laying there. He quickly went over to him to see if he was alright. "Hello? Are you alright? I'm Mikael from Galia. Who are you?" Before the dwarf could respond he looked to Imbellem, "Imbellem! Here, quick! How bad is he?" Once Imbellem noticed, Mikael looked back to the Dwarf, "And what was that... thing? I've never seen the likes of it before."

Imbellem stood facing the door as the dwarf shouted in the distance which was then followed by a chilling silence. He was listening so intently that when Mikael shouted, he jumped. There was another man in the room. And he was in bad shape.

Imbellem swiftly made his way to the cot, removing his left glove and knelt down. Taking a deep breath to calm himself after the events with the creature, he closed his eyes and felt for pulse, gently pinched and poked at the man; though it looked rather unorthodox, he was checking for broken bones or gashes that lead to internal damage. He looked over his shoulder as he felt elf eyes eyeing him with a confused look. "Wounds of the soul are healed with words," he said plainly, continuing to tend to the dwarf, dabbing off sweat from the wounded's brow with his cloak, "Wounds of the body require hands. Neither of which I really need my eyes. Bones are easily set, internal wounds are difficult..."


While he checked the dwarf the causes of his injury and physical state, he also took the time to look at his gear and weapon, to attempt to determine what sort of man he was. Was he a noble dwarven fighter for the greater good? Or a common mercenary with more blood on his hands than the cleric in all his years of aiding the mortally wounded.

[Private to DM Ryan: Imbellem Tueri rolled 22 Secret sense motive, Evil man? or a man of ethics]

As soon as he heard the door shut, Godric went right to it and put his hand on the latch, almost as if he was considering going back out to fight. "Wait! There's no way you can outrun the beast. I'm not even sure my horse could escape that thing! After getting no response from the dwarf, Godric turned back to the others. He didn't like the idea of someone else risking their life in battle while he stood by like a coward. Perhaps if they all went out and fought they would have a chance at defeating the monster. But he soon realized they made the right choice by avoiding combat with the creature when he heard the dwarfs fate...Godric walked over to the injured man while his new found companions examined him. He noticed that Imbellum appeared to know what he was doing, and he likely wouldn't be able to offer him any help. "How does he look? Will he live? " Godric asked as he kept listening for the creature outside. "Do either of you two know what that thing was? It looks like it was a good idea for us to enter the tower judging from what probably happened to that dwarf. As much as I hate backing down from a fight, a good warrior must know when he is outmatched"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:33, Thu 03 Mar 2016.

Torrick woke to a pounding headache and a terrible pain in his chest.
"So I live..." he mumbles to himself as he cracks a pale blue eye open.
Taking a quick second to glance at the strangers around him before he grumbles
"Well I suppose you are the ones that saved me?  Me name is Torrick Boulderbrea....."
Torrick stopped mid sentence as he stared at the large axe at the end of his bed.
Shiny and carved with dwarven runes, and of a non standard design, it lookes overly sized for the dwarf.
Torrick reaches down and grabs it gingerly with a wince and pulls it towards him, staring at it.
Looking up he begins anew
 "Torrick Axebearer, and I come from Terrignis Mare.  I'm searching to see if any of my clan still live in Comoset"

Coughing with a terrible rasp, the dwarf awoke, and found himself surrounded by strangers. Speaking caused a bitter pain in his chest, as though he'd swallowed nails. Imbellem encouraged him to stay still and lie down; he was in bad shape.

Heal Check ~ Torrick Axebearer is at 0 HP.

The silence that followed the beast lingered for what seemed an eternity, as though the world itself held its breath. But after a few minutes, the sound of nocturnal life slowly came back – the hooting of an owl, the scampering of a small creature – and though these sounds were small, they gave the adventurers a profoundly large sense of comfort.

Inside the tower, the walls were crumbling; heaps of eroded stone piled on the floor at several places. If there had been a second story to the tower, it had collapsed long ago. They suspected there might have been, for above one large pile of rubble was a partially blocked hole in the ceiling – perhaps once being a stair to another floor. Through this hole came a slight draft that chilled the room.

The cot and provisions, however, were new, likely carried here from the smashed wagons outside. Mikael leaned over the provisions and rifled through them:

Search Check ~ Among the supplies he found 127 Gold, a purple Iolite Gem, and a Composite Longbow (Str bonus +1); as well as food, water, and a bottle of Dwarven Firebrandy.

If they were going to spend the night here, they would at least have a few comforts.

Outside they heard another new sound, the sound of hooves. Imbellem brightened with a smile, "I don't believe it – Ruin! He followed me here all the way from the ship. I sure hope he brought a few things with him."


This message was last edited by the GM at 14:58, Mon 07 Mar 2016.

It was rather Jarring when the dwarf began to cough with imbellem holding his ear to his chest. He did his best not to shout in shocked horror, but a small pep slipped out...

"Hey you're concious!" He said, with a happy grin, "Dont worry, youre among friends, I am Imbellem, Cleric, Doctor, and all around swell guy. I would like to tend to your wounds if you would allow me." He said, awaiting a responce. Some certian people he had crossed in his past had refused his celestial help simply based on their beliefs. Sense then: he always made it a habbit to ask.

As he awaited a response he head a fimiliar neigh from outside and he jetted up off his knees to listen. "See Mikael," he began, looking at the elf, "I told you he liked me. Hes new, those were love bites." Ruin was Imbellems WarHorse he had purchased among other things before they took off to comoset. Though the horse was stubborn at times, he wised up after being alone for so long and followed them to the tower. "I hope hes okay out there..." he thought to himself. "Let me see that stone, Ill check if it is all it appears to be. Perhaps it has latent magical properties like the ones you found before.

"Now you, Lets fix those boo-boos eh?" The dwarf simply looked at him with a black stare and imbellem began to say his healing words...

Imbellem Tueri rolled 26 usingCure Serious wounds, Torrick.

Small crucifix dangling, he turned his attention to Mikael and the other three men. "We should sleep in shifts, just to be safe. I can take first watch and you all can take rest. Mikael, may I see that stone? I wish to check for magical properties."

Gem in hand, imbellem lowed walked near the door and sat, listening as well as meditating on the small object checking for magical properties...

quote:

"Abba father, I come to you again on a more personal matter, this object I hold is a gem, of course you know; but I ask that if this object holds any magical properties, they be shown to me though your power. I ask only so that we know, for if it were, it could help our cause tremdously. I thank you, as i know my request has been heard, as you knew I would ask of it. Thank you lord, for your safety and provision. In your name, Amen."

Imbellem casts Detect magic on the purple Iolite Gem as he takes his watch while the others rest.

Godric walked over toward Mikael as he gathered the loot to see if anything appeared useful to him. Godric paid particular attention to the bow"That bow looks like it could come in handy. Well that is if we have any arrows." He looked around at the others however it appeared they didn't have any either. After the dwarf was healed Godric went to talk to him. Greetings, I am Godric Lothar. I hail from Vaterland, on the isle of Kabyria. You say you come to see if any of your clan live here? Does that mean that you once lived here with these dwarves? Do you have any idea what is going on here? Why did the dwarves suddenly leave for their main keep? Do you know what that beast was? Sorry for all the questions, I just think it will help to know as much about what happened if we are to survive here with those beasts roaming the woods." After talking Torrick I turn back to the others. "Well I think we should stay here for the night. That... beast seems to have left us alone for now and this is probably the best shelter we could have. I'm guessing you will want your horse in here?he said to Imbellum, as he walked over to prepare to open the door. "Hmm, looks like were gonna have to force this door open if we want to let him in."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Sat 12 Mar 2016.

Mikael handed the gem to Imbellem for inspection while he aimlessly paced around the tower. "Yes, I'll take the second watch since it will likely be the dark part of the night."

He walks over to the door and looks at it. "Godric, want to have a hand at the door there? Looks pretty stuck. Just do your best not to leave it in splinters."

Chill air swept through the tower, occasionally whistling when the wind picked up. The stone bricks grew stringing cold to the touch. Already the adventurers could see their breath each time they exhaled, as though a fog swelled in their stomachs.

Imbellem crouched and turned the Iolite Gem over in his hand, studying it intently. It was roughly spherical and an intense, deep color of violet. He prayed to see if it had any powers he could not see, but nothing came to him. He concluded it was simply another bauble, to be sold or adorned with. Casually he placed it in the loot pile, where Godric was handling the bow with a look a longing, wishing he'd packed arrows.

Giving up, Godric stood and went to the newly awakened dwarf to ask some questions, which came out in a burst – he had seen many things in these past few hours he did not understand. But the dwarf gave no reply. Although he spoke to introduce himself, he afterward sank into a brooding, contemplative silence. Seeing as his brother had just died, Godric didn't press the matter.

With not much else to be done and the door still barred, most of them laid down to sleep, save for Imbellem who offered to take first watch. They unfurled their sleeping bags and crawled inside while the dwarf closed his eyes once more and lay still on the cot. For awhile there was silence. Imbellem sat on one of the provision crates, keeping his ears out, wondering what the hell that earlier beast was. His breath became increasingly visible in front of him as night fully fell and cast the world outside into blackness. Even beneath his winter clothes, he started to shiver from the cold. He noticed the others were shivering too. An hour passed. It was so cold, it hurt, and made sleeping difficult:

Godric Lothar takes 1 cold damage (non-lethal).
Torrick Axebearer takes 3 cold damage (non-lethal).
Imbellem Tueri takes 0 cold damage (non-lethal).
Mikael Vaeltaja takes 0 cold damage (non-lethal).

The wind began to howl.


This message was last edited by the GM at 13:24, Wed 16 Mar 2016.

Mikael Stirred from the cold and the sound of Imbellem returning to the group to pass off the watch. This was hardly the nights he was used to back on Galia or even Herrod, although he found himself able to manage the cold wrapped up in his cloak. Seeing his own breathe Mikael got up with Godric and Imbellem to join in on the complaining of the temperature. "This is a bit colder than I was thinking. What do you say we get a fire started to keep us warm the rest of the night? It doesn't look like Torrick is fairing too well without some warmth."

Mikael pulls out the flint and steel and a torch from his pack to get something started. Once the torch is lit he takes a quick look about the tower they are in to find something to burn. "We may want to go outside and grab some wood to get us through the night. It looked like that turned over cart would be a good place to start."

Imbellem welcomed the torchlight that now illuminated the small room. It quickly melted away thoughts of trolls in the room or outside. Perhaps it was the lack of sleep that created these intrusive images...

Imbellem took the small gem, not noticing any magical properties and put it safely away. He walked toward the light and his comrades, away from the door and wrapped up in his cloak. "Ill tell you all, I was not aware commoset would get this cold" he stated, breaking the cold silence, "I mostly traveled in warm, sometimes tropical locations. I do not like cold..."

When Mikael awoke and stated the idea for the fire, Imbellem was slightly embarrassed that he hadnt thought of that before. "Thats probably a good idea," He began, walking towards the fire weilding elf, "However, I think if we do need to go out to the wagon wreckage, a torch may be unwise... Im not sure about the hunting patterns or even if trolls are nocturnal. If we do, I suggest we go together Mikael, We can move faster and more safely that way- plus your kind can see in the dark, so we have that going for us" He added with a chuckle

Imbellem looked about the room for some material fitting for a fire, scanning while he spoke. Should they need to sneak to the broken wood that once resembled a cart, he secured his hammer and made ready his 'Plan B'

"Hopefully a warm nights sleep would be a matter of healing for the wounded dwarf... If not, ill tend to him more in the morning... I will however sleep next to him. If something starts to go wrong, ill be up quickly to his aid. Im a very light sleeper..."

Also its kind of ironic that you hold the fire, elf. You'd think after Alldyde youd be timid around flames. The smell of your burning hair disturbs me

At the mention of Mikael's past hotheadedness with Alldyde, Mikael winced and said, "I am a little afraid. But I suppose I forget that fear when I can't feel my damn fingers." He lit a torch, strapped on his cloak, and prepared to go outside. "All the same, make sure someone's watching that fire. . . like all the time."

Imbellem laughed, secretly contemplating what possible pranks he might pull, fastened his cloak, and followed Mikael to the door of the tower – where they were abruptly reminded that the door was barred shut.

"Damn," murmured Mikael as he tried to push it open, but realized it would take more strength than what he could offer right now.

Turning their sights to anything burnable in the tower, they noticed that there was indeed something they could burn: The crates which contained the provisions. Together, he and Imbellem dumped out the contents of the crates and smashed the wooden containers in whatever way was convenient. Imbellem enthusiastically broke them apart with his mace while Mikael tried to more delicately remove the nails with a little leverage. Needless to say, the racket they made woke everyone, but the others didn't mind for the cold kept them from a decent sleep anyway. Their only fear was that the sound would attract less pleasant company, and Godric, lying in his fur sleeping bag, kept a wary ear out for such a catastrophic danger. To his relief, he heard nothing but startled animals.

They threw some of the broken wood into a pile in the center and set it alight. It burned and grew into a modest blaze, sending thin trails of smoke toward the ceiling and out the hole by the collapsed stairs. Torrick's breathing eased; he had been having a hard time in his present condition.

The tower, being small, quickly became comfortably warm, and they soon felt like they could resume a cozy sleep. So they did. Mikael took the next watch, for the act of breaking boxes had roused him, rotating off to Godric later; and they passed the night like this.

Morning came; sunlight broke through the cracks in the stone, letting them know the dawn had come. The air was still brisk and cold, but they knew that the sun would soon warm it to something more manageable.

Godric went to the barred door and shoved it open after a few heavy bursts from his shoulder, dislodging the propped wood, which had been placed there for their own safety by the dwarf who aided them last night. While Imbellem attended Torrick the Axebearer, and Mikael set about something to do with breakfast, Godric stepped outside to look around.

He noticed the arrival of another horse, which was grazing in the field; it must have belonged to the priest Imbellem, he assumed, based on what he had heard from him. He saw that another one of the wagons had been smashed by the creature last night, probably when it burst from the trees to pursue them; he could see the torn up roots and trunks from where it came. But there was one intact wagon left which might be useful, Godric thought.

He walked a little farther, mostly to see if the area was safe, and stumbled on something else that nearly unnerved him. He saw the dwarf from last night, or at least, he presumed it was him. It was impossible to be certain, for it was only his legs, having been torn at the waist; the upper body was missing. But Godric felt as though he knew.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:05, Tue 19 Apr 2016.

Godric walked up to his horse and greeted it, while checking that it was OK. He remembered all the deer meat that he collected the previous day, and took the sack from his horses saddle bags. "I got breakfast if anyone needs some." He said as he walked back to the fire to prepare it. He looked at Torrick to see if he appeared to be better than the night befor."Is he going to be ok?" he asked the priest.

Mikael felt a wave of relief wash over him as he heard Godric speaking of meat and breakfast. He had almost gone 12 hours without some food, and that also meant there was nothing horrifying waiting for them outside.

He got up from where he was sleeping, which was the farthest spot away from the fire that he could get from it. Mikael made his way to Torrick and looked to Imbellem, "So how is he? Did he get better over the night? I can never tell, all the dwarves look just about the same to me."

"Thats incredibly racist." Imbellem said in a humor so dry it was easily mistaken for legitimate anger

Imbellem had been up for some time, being the jumpy fellow that he was, he simply couldnt sleep as heavily as the others with the thought of some enormous creature outside. He came into the tower just as Godrick was going out to check on his horse. He nodded to the man and gave a pleasant 'Good Morning' as they crossed. He had checked on his horse and sat with him for a short while helping him find some grass to snack on

Imbellem scanned the dwarf who had yet to waken, softly checking his pulse and feeling the temperature of his skin. "Its rather hard to get a good tell while someone is asleep" He began, "The body temperature drops so far, and the pulse is slowed to reserve energy and keep the body rested... I can tell you he is doing better - but that blunder of mine to forget making a fire was foolish of me. I hope dwarves have strong immune systems against runny noses."

[Private to DM Ryan: Heal check -7-]

"Once he awakens, if he has difficulty walking I'll place him on my horse. It is dangerous to make a weak man walk... especially with legs the size of an end table." Imbellem sat for a moment, listening to the birds and wind though the trees. Reminding himself that it was a new day and the creature was gone to remain calm. The cleric took a deep breath after his brief calming meditation and looked to the Elf and Man, "Lets follow the trail of the dwarves. If that troll is still out there, it could be on the trail of the mountain folk... I suggest also if we happen to notice the dwarf that helped us so valiantly, we should aid him if he requires it... or bury him..."

The priest lowered his head for a moment, and then began to softly awaken Torrick to speak to him and be able to get a better guess of how he was feeling and what required attention.

Should the dwarf be in mortal danger in HP, imbellem casts Cure Light Wounds

Once the situation of Torrick resolves, imbellem would aid him to ride on his horse, and begin following the trail from the other dwarves with his comrades

Godric re-kindled the fire and arranged a spit, and soon after, they continued their morning duties to the sound of sizzling deer meat. Nearby, Imbellem leaned over Torrick, checking his condition.

"How is he?" asked Godric as he adjusted a raw flank.

Imbellem gazed down at the dwarf with a solemn frown. "Not good," he answered. "He's recovered from his wounds a bit (29/? HP), but he's developed a serious fever, maybe an infection. I can't wake him". Indeed Torrick's eyes flickered in a kind of disturbed sleep, while sweat trickled down his forehead. Imbellem dabbed some snow above his bushy eyebrows in an attempt to cool him down.

After they had finished breakfast, it was again time to resume their journey, which had proven more dangerous than they had expected. They packed their things and exited the tower. Godric, together with Imbellem and Mikael, lifted Torrick, who still slumbered restlessly, and brought him to Ruin, Imbellem's horse who came in the night. They lifted the dwarf onto the rear of the horse, laying him on his stomach, and tied him to the saddle with rope for fear that he might fall. It was not the most comfortable position for him, but the alternative of leaving him behind was unthinkable. Godric and Imbellem then mounted their horses, Mikael remaining on foot, and they trotted to the road and into the forest. Thus they resumed their journey to Shelterpeak. Mikael walked at a leisurely pace beside them, for they could not go too fast due to their sick passenger.

In this valley, the pines trees grew in dense copses amidst brown, dried grass; snowy white mountain peaks encircled them on all sides, except behind, which lead back to the sea. They continued to the very end of the valley until the road lead to a narrow pass through the mountain ridge; the pass was like a deeply cut groove through a stone wall, promising to exit on the other side. They entered.

The pass turned out to be relatively short. After a few minutes, they exited onto other side on a high point, overlooking a new valley. The view surprised them greatly. Whereas the pines before grew short and dense, here they grew hundreds of feet tall, forming canopies high overhead; beneath the canopies, there seemed to be almost no underbrush at all – only massive trunks of trees as thick as the tower they slept in last night. It was as though they had become small, having entered a new and larger-sized world; a giant might have found himself feeling like a ordinary man among ordinary woods.

Across the new valley, they could see the white sheen of mountains ahead and rather close, nestling this grove of towering trees in an area no more than five miles across. It would be a short walk to the other side. The road descended down the side of the mountain to their left; they followed it until they reached the base and headed into the over-sized woods.

The party gazed at the staggeringly tall trees as they proceed down the path. It was about mid-afternoon; and from what they had learned, they could expect to reach Shelterpeak by that evening.

"Shelterpeak must be in the valley after this one," said Mikael conversationally.

"Good," said Imbellem, "Cause I'm getting worried about our dwarf friend." Imbellem cast Torrick a concerned glance, who had still not awoken.

"Don't worry, we're almost there," said Godric. "I know where we're going."

"Where are you going, if I may ask?" said a voice curiously.

The party brought their horses to a slow stop as they gandered to the right, where resting on a gray boulder was an old dwarf, not far from the trunk of a massive tree. He had sat at the very edge of the stone, his feet on the ground, looking as though he had stopped to rest his knees; laying beside him was a gnarled walking stick. If it were not for the pale green robes, he would have looked like a very ordinary old dwarf. He gazed at them with bright green eyes through his silvery beard.

He smiled wryly, "Stay thy course to indulge an old man?"


This message was last edited by the GM at 01:11, Fri 13 May 2016.

"Welp" Imbellem said in a quick, loud burst. The quiet began to wear upon his mind, and when he was nervous the cleric needed sounds to distract himself

"What an eccentric fellow" he began, not looking at his comrades quite yet, but looking intently at the trees, trying to see if he could catch a glimpse of the deceivingly powerful dwarf. He then turned his attention to the group, holding his box away from his body "From what I can gather, it seems this Torrick... Broke some sort of covenant with a deity? perhaps he learned something and made a promise that he couldnt keep?... Im not sure, but its clear that he needs help." Imbellem looked at the dwarf, he often shot glimpses to the wounded Mountian Son to make sure his chest continued to rise and lower with breath. "I suggest we pick up the pace to catch up to the moving dwarves, I expect they might give us some answers." The priest walked up to, though and passed his comrades, looking down at the small box

Once he got to a distance he deemed 'safe' He turned his head around, tilted slightly sideways. "No guts no glory eh?" He said, extending the box as far as he could having the opening facing away from him - just in case. He slowly began to open it in case of magical explosion closing one of his eyes, biting his tongue and arching back slightly.

"I just really hope my guts dont go to glory..."

This message was last edited by the player at 15:37, Sun 05 June 2016.

Mikael took a few steps as Imbellem stepped towards the strange box. He took as good of a look at it as he could. "Hey that looks like the same box that I hid back in that warehouse!" He looked at Imbellem with his eyes squinted, "If that's the same box then that's mine."

After Imbellem's nervous laugh trying to determine if Mikael is serious or not, Mikael draws both swords at the same time. Swinging them in wide circles as he does so and comes into a fighting stance. Everyone was staring at him and he just replied, "What? I haven't gotten to use these yet." When their gazes didn't shift away he continued, "Well if it isn't my box, who knows what might pop out of there!"

After the old dwarf disappeared, Godric looked around trying to see where he might have gone, but he soon realized that he was likely nowhere near the group, due to his magical abilities. At first Godrick was somewhat confused at Mikael's and Imbellum's banter and sarcasm but he was soon catching on to it. "Wait what box are you talking about? I must be missing something" he said after looking at the two a bit puzzled."Are you sure you don't want me to open it? I mean not that you don't look like you can do it, I do have a knack for avoiding surprise attacks". he said with a grin. Right before Imbellum started to open the chest, Godrick reached into his belt pouch and tossed out what appeared to be some odd looking colored bits of parchment. The others looked at him with an expression of confusion. He shrugged and said "What, these have been sitting in my pouch for a while, I just felt like now was a good time to throw them out"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:55, Mon 06 June 2016.

Old Dwarf: *Cough

Godric Who are you? {To the old dwarf}

Old Dwarf: Falameezen is me. But you are who?

Imbellem: Imbellem they call me. *steps between Falameezen and the unconscious dwarf on his horse* Unusual robes.. might you dabble in magics?

Godric: The name is Godric. We are heading to the old dwarven keep to investigate what happened.

Old Dwarf: Never heard of such a thing! *His walking stick magically comes to his hand, which he uses to scratch his back*
Oh? Are there happenings now?

Imbellem: *Looks nervously to Godric* Uh yes sir, there was a troll attack down the road and we are searching for the mountain folk

Godric: It appears something made them flee their outpost on the shore quite quickly
I saw them head this way so we figured this would be the best way to see what happened

Old Dwarf: Shiny toy. *In the time it took Imbellem to look nervously away, the dwarf had suddenly appeared behind him, touching the cleric's mace curiously*
Troll attack? Well isn't that delightful!

Imbellem: *Jumps and holds his hammer secure*

*Godric quickly looks toward his new position, and puts a hand on his lance*

Imbellem: Now look here, I dont appreciate strangers handling my weapons, not to mention holding weapons of their own. How about you tell me a bit about yourself to easy my mind

Old Dwarf: Oh? But you would much rather hear about this woods! It's a sacred place you know. Trees as old as the world.

Godric: These trees do appear quite unique, however I agree with my comrade.


Old Dwarf: *He walks behind Imbellem's horse and magically comes out from behind Godric's instead*Oh? I'm just a priest. No one of consequence. Not when I'm awake anyway.

Imbellem: A priest eh? I fancy myself a priest myself. A pleasure

Old Dwarf: Pleasure! *He whispers loudly to Imbellem* You know, they say the trees are made of people. . .

Imbellem: ... uh come agian?

Godric: Tell us more about this forest...

Old Dwarf: Exactly! They always want you to come closer, but you never can do it again can you? Oh? I live here see. Can't leave though, not since they broke Bagna. Very improper of them, don't you think?

Imbellem: How rude indeed. However, you must realize we are strangers to you, and we don't know many of the things you speak of... What is this Bagna?

Old Dwarf: Bagna isn't a what. He's a who! . . Or maybe a where? I never was really sure. But I do know he was a god, the God of Dreams. Delightful isn't it?

Imbellem: I do love dreams. That is delightful indeed. How could beings destroy a god?

Godric: Who broke Bagna?

Imbellem: Destroy? Oh, no no no. Only broke, see. *He points at Torrick* He broke you know. All his fault.

Godric: His Fault? *points to Torrick* Could this be the reason he's not waking up?

Imbellem: *Shenanigan sensors blinking captian*

Imbellem: Tell me. What ought you keep only after you give it away?

Imbellem: Hm... perhaps a promise?

Old Dwarf: . . . *Smiles* Exactly right.

Mikael: Hah I knew it

Imbellem: *grin* now, wonderful brain teaser my friend, but that doesn't exactly answer our question... Could you explain?

*As you high five each other, your look back to find the old dwarf gone, vanished. But where he stood sits a small chest no more than six inches high.*

Mikael: That was... odd

Imbellem: What in the blazes

Godric: Imbellum, perhaps you should try to detect magic in the area

Mikael: *Pointing to the chest* Imbellem go open it, we'll stand over here

Godric: Also, is there any way you could see what is wrong with the dwarf, maybe if its a disease you could cure it. I can open it if you think its dangerous

Imbellem: Coward. *Walks toward the chest to pick it up* I have a feeling however that there is latent magic all around due to what the man said about the trees.f I dont think it would help at all.. From what i can figure, it sounds like torrick broke some sort of covenant with this god?

Godric: Thats what i would guess based on the riddle
I wonder if it is related to his disease

Imbellem: Or divine punishment for his loose tongue

Mikael: Maybe it has something to do with that rather ornate axe he's carrying

Imbellem: *carefully picks up box and inspects it* Thats a good point... Perhaps we should take a closer look at that as well

Godric: I Noticed when he was introducing himself, he seemed to change his title to axebearer from something else

Imbellem: Ill try to discern if this axe has any latent magical properties

Mikael: Maybe he will know something about that dwarf

Godric: We need to get him to wake up, maybe he will know something about all this

Imbellem: Lets try. Maybe he will have some answers for us. I rather doubt we could brake a spell placed by a god itself, but that doesnt mean we shouldnt try. Our best option would be to either get the god to lift it itself, or to locate the gods foe and start a war of sorts

Godric: Well i think we should continue on to the dwarves.
If only he would have told us how to "fix" the god.

Imbellem: I agree. god-war will be plan B. Perhaps the dwarves will help us

Godric: If nothing else, they will shed some light on the situation. I would not be surprised if this was all somehow related
This message was last edited by the player at 18:54, Wed 15 June 2016.

"That was the weirdest thing to happen to us in awhile," said Imbellem, scratching his head after the mysterious, old dwarf didn't come back.

"Agreed," said Mikael, still looking around cautiously, even searching awkwardly behind Godric's horse. "I'm not sure what to make of it either. This Falameezen. . . Some broken god called Bagna, maybe? . . . Bizarre riddles? . . Sometimes I wish people would be more straightforward."

Godric, who was contemplating heavily, spoke something aloud he was thinking, more to himself than anyone else. "Maybe he couldn't be straightforward. . ."

Mikael turned to him, "Hmm? What's that supposed to mean?"

Godric, who hadn't noticed he'd spoken aloud, regained awareness. "What? Oh, nothing, I guess. Let's see what's in the box."

"Right," said Imbellem as he warily picked up the box. With good reason to be cautious, he held it away from him at arm's length, terrified that something ridiculous and magical would happen, like turn him into a badger or something. . . or explode.

Slowly, inch by inch, he undid the latch and creaked open the lid, the hinges squeaking lightly as it cracked open.

It exploded! Colors of every sort rained through the air in a flurry. Imbellem screamed, dropped the  box, and swatted the swirling colors away, hoping not to die. He was relieved to realize he wasn't dying, or hurt for that matter. After a few more moments, it finally occurred to him that the flying colors, now floating gently to the ground, were actually colorful strips of paper – bits of parchment that had been thrown by Godric at that exact moment. Imbellem clutched his heaving chest.

"What? . . What was that for!. . . Was that. . . Confetti!?" said Imbellem between heavy breaths.

"Yea," said Godric simply, as if that were obvious.

"What?. . How? . . Why!?" sputtered Imbellem.

"Oh, it's Ryan's Birthday," explained Godric, as if that made everything clear.

"Who!?" rasped Imbellem.

"Ah, well he's. . . er. . . nevermind," said Godric. "My bad."

Imbellem finished breathing heavily as though he were overcoming an asthma attack. After glaring at Godric intensely for a minute, keeping some choice words to himself (since Godric was bigger than he was), he regained his composure and said, "Let's open this damn box."

Imbellem reached down and picked up the fallen box; he brushed away some of the confetti clinging on top and opened it roughly, with much less ceremony than before.

Inside he found two things: A folded silk fabric at the base, and sitting atop that fabric, like some treasure, was a Golden Key. Gently, he removed the Golden Key, holding it lightly as though fearing it would break. Its handle was decoratively wrought, and at the end was an unusual shape, that of a triangle, for an unusually shaped lock. No longer than four inches, it felt small in Imbellem's hand. It was apparent this key was meant to open something specific.

"Curious. . . " murmured Mikael as Imbellem handed it to him for a closer look.

Imbellem then removed the silk fabric, which unfolded in numerous ripples as he pulled it, seemingly endlessly, from the box. It had been folded many times over. Of dark, forest green color, it spilled delicately over the forest floor, and it wasn't until he had fully removed it that they recognized what it was: It was a cloak. And more importantly, it was unidentified.

"This is an interesting hull, which seems to raise more questions than answers," said Godric.

Imbellem and Mikael stowed the new treasures. "Yes," said Mikael. "Now, let us hurry to Shelterpeak. Perhaps we'll find our answers there."

At once, they remounted their horses and resumed their journey through the woods, yet Godric now cast regularly a wary eye behind them; and more than once – though he was never certain – he felt a pair of bright green eyes staring back.


As the sun drifted low in the afternoon sky, they reached the end of the valley and followed an inclined road out from its depths. The forest of giant trees had been magnificent to travel through, each one an imposing tower, making them feel like the world was much grander than they originally thought.

Once they had reached the summit of the road, they glanced back from on high, gazing over the forest canopy. From here, they could see the breadth of the forested valley, and how it was contained by a ring of mountains, almost in a perfect circle, as though it had been deliberately planted in ages past. Knowing they would not forget it anytime soon, they continued forward, following the road through another mountain pass and leaving the valley behind.

Normal-sized trees returned, growing in clusters over the mountain side, and almost unexpectedly, after the road brought them around a crop of rock, an entirely new valley emerged. At once, they knew they had arrived, for nestled in this valley was none other than the castle city of Shelterpeak.


Terraced and made of light gray stone, the castle was built on the side of a mountain, with a wide river flowing at its base, winding through the range.

From their height on the road they gazed down at the gates of Shelterpeak, and saw a crowd of wagons and dwarfs entering the castle city. They were finally here.

"Well, what are we waiting for!" exclaimed Imbellem. Rearing his horse Ruin, he set off at a fast trot down the road. Godric followed swiftly behind. Mikael, who was on foot, shook his head but smirked all the same, then followed after them in a graceful run.

They were going to sleep warm tonight.


After crossing a wide, stone bridge over the river, the adventurers entered the gates, which had been propped open welcomingly for the constant stream of travelers.

Buildings of wood and stone filled the interior of the walls, advertising shops, inns, temples, and other services. The city, being terraced like a set of steps, offered three levels, each one a blend of residences and stores. And knowing the dwarves, the city likely extended further into the mountain itself.

Walking through the streets were numerous dwarves of all shapes and sizes: A young, blonde-bearded dwarf with his kid; A woman with black, short hair who was more muscular than Imbellem (though that wasn't saying much); Or an elderly dwarf with pure white hair and a beard that he tucked into his waist.

Shelterpeak looked busy. In fact, it looked too busy. The wagons and people seemed to overflow and cause a great deal of traffic. Swiftly it occured to the adventurers that, perhaps, the castle city did not usually have this many people.

"What next?" asked Imbellem as he dismounted and led his horse through the throngs, Godric doing the same.

"Well," began Mikael, "We need to find someone in charge, like the King or something." They followed a stepped street to a higher level and entered a public park. Stone patios, archways and flowering bushes adorned the landscape.

"Sure, but how are we going to gain an audience with the King?" pondered Godric. "I'm sure we can't just walk into the castle and say, 'Hey, we'd like to talk', right? We aren't exactly anyone of consequence in Comoset."

"True," agreed Imbellem. "I guess we'll have to try something else. . . Maybe we can- Ooof!" puffed Imbellem as he walked into a dwarf. Imbellem fell straight backward. Known for their sure-footedness, the dwarf didn't even budge, and stared at the fallen Imbellem intently.

Suddenly, two armored dwarves stepped between them, holding axes threateningly at Imbellem.

One spoke, "What commoner dares run into the King of Shelterpeak?"

Imbellem stared, dumbfounded.

Mikael stood in shocked silence.

Godric threw some confetti.

Mikael looked over to Godric, "Well that was a bit easier to him than we thought."

He then addressed the man asking them questions. Mikael stood up straight and replied, "I am Mikael. My clumsy friend Imbellem and I sailed from Herrod to find the dwarven ruler here. Perhaps you have heard of the end of the pirate's rule of the isle. On behalf of the new council we have come start negotiations. If the king could find time to sit down with us that would be much-" "Pardon!" A dwarf nudges himself between them. "...Appreciated. Although it looks as though things are quite chaotic around here."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Wed 15 June 2016.

Torrick hadn't taken a hit that hard in two decades.  He woke to a dry mouth and a dull ache over his whole body.  Suddenly the memories came back of the tower, the beast and his brother.....

Trying to roll only makes it apparent to Torrick that he was slung over a horses, and he took a moment to slide down.  A quick look around sees that the fellows from the tower, and a hazy recollection of going in and out of consciousness and hearing voices comes to mind.  He would go and reintroduce himself in a second, first he must find....Ah-ha the Axe!  Within a quick second Torrick had searched and adorned most of his effects.

Finally feeling more at ease, Torrick steps away from the horses and towards his would be companions before notices whom with they were conversing.  With a widening of his eyes and a quickening of his step, Torrick walks over to make sure no one embarrasses themselves or upsets the king!

Godric looked somewhat nervous after hearing that it was the dwarven king who Imbellum had ran into-literally. Being a warrior and somewhat of a nomad, sometimes Godric feels more comfortable in the wilderness or with a sword being swung at him than in a big city dealing with many strangers. Suddenly, he heard something behind them near the horses; He immediately turned around to see their new dwarven friend had awoken, and slid of the horse. Godric figured they should probably let him do some talking. He might know better how to deal with the situation.

Lying flat on the stone ground with the dust and piercing gazes of the dwarven folk, hands still raised above his head. He shot a quick dart of frustation toward Mikael and then to Godrick "Im not that clumsy... And the confetti effect was completly unnessicary..."

Upon seeing Torrick's suddden approach to the front of the party, closer to the two with blades ready to cleave the clerics head from his shoulders, Imbellem, decided to let Torrick do the talking...

Almsost

"Oh hey buddy, wonderful timing" he said, with the slightest tinge of sarcasm, "Im not sure what all you were able to see, but could you vouch for me and be sure to tell our kind friends here that I meant to offence? I was merely distracted is all." His eyebrows began to furl slightly, and he whispered something through his teeth... "Trying to help you out as a matter of fact..."

The king of Shelterpeak stood five feet tall and half as wide. His solid black beard had been woven into three thick braids, and his black eyebrows were so thick and bushy that they made it seem like two live animals were sleeping on his brow. Beneath these stared out deep, dark eyes with violently purple irises. For a king, his dress was relatively plain – a silver and brown tunic and breastplate – but it still distinguished him above the rest by its design.

"Representatives of Herrod, you say? Do you have the papers to prove it?" said the king.

"Uhh. . ." stalled Mikael.

"I do!" exclaimed Imbellem, raising his hand while still lying on his back.

Mikael gave him a curious glance, but then remembered he was telling the truth. As Mikael helped Imbellem on his feet, Imbellem rifled through his pockets until he pulled out a letter, the very letter they came to Comoset to deliver. He handed it to the king.

The king opened and read it. "Hmm. . . Everything seems in order. No sign of forgery," he muttered.

His guards stood at ease.

He continued, "This letter could have been delivered to the port office at Old Falahar, but I imagine Old Falahar has been abandoned, hasn't it?"

"Yes, it has," stated Mikael grimly.

"Yes, I thought so. Very well. Why don't you come back to the castle with me then? While you're here, you might as well be treated as diplomats. Come, follow me."

***

"My name is King Odiff Hockhorn," said the king as they entered the castle.

The castle where the royal family lived was at the very top of the city. Imbellem's legs felt sore from all the stairs they had to climb. He wished he were able to continue riding Ruin in here, but his steed had deserved its rest in the stables with Godric's.

"As you may have noticed things are busy around here, so we'll need to keep our engagement brief," said King Odiff while they followed him down a lavish hall. "Our internal problems must be fixed before we can think about trading."

"You're back!" cried a female voice. A dwarven woman came and ran up to the king. She had almost solid black hair, marred by a white strip on one side; in age, she was comparable to a human of twenty years. "Did you visit the temple like I asked?"

"I did," answered King Odiff who seemed happier in the woman's presence, "And you were right. I think it did lift the priestess' spirits. They'd been overworked between tending the wounded and those trapped in the death sleep."

"Have they managed to wake any?" asked the woman worriedly.

"None yet," said King Odiff with equal sympathy.

"Hmm, I think I'll visit them later too. Wait, you don't look like you've been sleeping well either." Frowning, she lightly touched beneath the king's eyes. The adventurers then thought that, perhaps, the king's eyes weren't normally deep or dark after all.

"I'm fine," assured the king. "You go on now. I have some business to attend to."

The dwarven woman curtsied to him, then to the adventurers (which reminded them they were diplomats), and walked away.

"My daughter Ranna," explained the king. "A kind heart. Dearest of my children; but I shouldn't pick favorites. Anyway, come. Let us discuss."


Godric felt uncomfortable sitting on the soft ornate chair. He felt more uncomfortable still when he sipped from a small round glass of brandy that he knew he wasn't drinking from properly. He wondered how long he go on like this without smashing something.

The adventurers sat in an office. The king was positioned behind an immense wooden desk and was scrawling a few brief letters addressed to certain Councilors of Herrod. Torick sat stiffly remembering he was in the presence of a king. But Imbellem, to pass the time, let his eyes wander along the shelves of tomes trying to read the titles – which were mostly in dwarven runic.

"Here you are," said the king a few minutes later and handing them several envelopes. The adventurers noticed he seemed especially tired now. "You may return these to your councilors. Though I'm afraid it won't mean much if our situation doesn't change. Is there anything else you'd like to discuss before you leave?"


[Private to Imbellem Tueri: In their wandering, your eyes linger on something interesting in the shelves behind the king - a small jewelry box on a shelf, nestled in a row of tomes. Its lock was triangle shaped.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:46, Sun 19 June 2016.

King Odiff: *Cough

Mikael: Well Sir, as you said this agreement will be meaningless if you're people
people's situation does not improve. I can't speak for the other 2, but Imbellem and I are not ones to just walk away from someone in need of assistance like this. We've also had a good rest since our last en devour and we are not meant to meet the rest of our companions for a while. Perhaps we can be of any help.

King Odiff: That's a gentlemanly offer. But unfortunately, we don't entirely know the cause of our misfortune. Wolves attacked villagers in Brumbeer in mid-day. Bears assault travelers on sight. And worst of all, a Whitetroll has been rampaging south, an unstoppable beinging of destruction. Travel has become impossible, and the towns unsafe; so they flock to the protective walls of Shelterpeak. It would seem we are simply cursed.

Mikael: Quite mysterious. I believe we ran into the Whitetroll that you speak of. Nearly had us for supper if we hadn't found refuge in an abandoned tower. Imbellem, do you know of any magics that might cause something like this?

King Odiff: Consider yourselves lucky to be here. Though it's unlucky for one to encounter a whitetroll at all. Not only are they very rare, but they are supposed to be hibernating this time of year.

Godric: That truly is strange. It is not only luck that has brought us here, this mans brother helped us escape the whitetroll by providing shelter and distracting it. He did not make it himself however... His death was an honorable one. We did learn something that may be related to these events. When we were traveling through the forest on the way here we met a very odd dwarf. He appeared to be a priest named Falameezen. He spoke strangely, and mentioned something about the massive trees being somehow sacred. He also said that the god of dreams- Bagna- was broken. Perhaps you could shed some light on what he was talking about?

King Odiff: {His face flushed pale} Falameezen, you say? No, no, I afraid that's impossible. Falameezen is dead.

Godric: What happened to him. The man we saw had the power to instantly vanish and reapear so maybe he was a ghost or something

Mikael: Perhaps he is the cause of this?

King Odiff: No, no, Falameezen is certainly dead. He was a priest of Bagna who had a shrine in the Sentinal Forest for a. . . short time. I haven't heard a soul mention Bagna in awhile. 'God of Dreams' is an. . . overly "kind" translation into the common tongue. His title, as most would translate it these days, is the God of Nightmares. During his stay here, over a decade ago now, good dwarven folk would sometimes go to Bagna's shrine and make an offering, so that they would have good dreams. But they weren't always good. And some of those who made offerings even went mad. Finally we put an end it. The shrine was removed, and the priest was killed by guardsmen - in his sleep if I recall right.

Godric: Hmmm the old dwarf we met seemed like he was one step away from being mad himself. He claimed to be a priest and that he was trapped there because somebody broke Bagna. Certainly an ironic way for him to go...

Mikael: I think his manner of death might have been more than ironic. It might be worth investigating the shrine. it could be the source of all of this. Has anyone been there since it was destroyed?

Godric: Good idea, I'd guess that there would be more clues near the shrine considering he said he was Falameezen.

King Odiff: As far as I know, none pilgrimage there anymore, but I'll mark it on your map (New Location Added; Travel time - 2 hours). You might be wasting your time on this nonsense, but if you want to know more, ask the priestesses at the temple (New Location Added; Travel time - 20 minutes). The sisters could tell you more of Bagna than I.

Imbellem: *after his deep scan of the room and trying to decipher dwarvin to no avail* Tell me Lord Odiff, This rather eccentric man who 'passed', was he a fan of riddles?

King Odiff: I couldn't tell you, young priest. I knew him not.
Now, er, it's time I leave. I'm very busy, as you know. Come.
{King stands. He and guards escort you from the room. You stop in the main hall of the castle} I wish you well on your journey home, representatives of Herrod. May the gods give you safe passage. {He leaves. You are left standing alone in the main hall of the castle. The doors back to town are in front of you.}

Imbellem: What a nice fellow.

Godric: Looks like the only thing to do is go to the shrine and try and find out what is going on around here

Mikael: Yes, and we should probably stop by the priestesses he mentioned. Might have some insight about that dwarf.

Godric: Yes of course

Imbellem: I agree. I must say though, while looking at his books and decor of his room, i did notice a small box... much like the one I got from the strange man

Godric: I wonder what's inside

Imbellem: I wonder more how he got it if he says he never met the guy

Godric: That's true, maybe he knew more than he let on. He was quite adamant that he was killed and that the man we met wasn't who he said.

Imbellem: Thats true. Or this 'god' has a bit more going on. It could be he was telling the truth and didnt know the eccentric.. It could have been the god itself
im not sure, so many small pieces for such a big puzzle

Godric: I guess with magic almost anything is possible

Imbellem: We simply need more information

Mikael: Very true
This message was last edited by the player at 16:35, Tue 21 June 2016.

The group converses shortly with themselves and Mikael tried to take everything in they had learned. He thought back on everything the king said and after Imbellem had pointed out that box he couldn't help but think the king might have other intentions.

{21:55, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Sense Motive. Nat 1:(}

Having spent so little time around dwarves, Mikael realized he couldn't determine the king's intentions at all. If he had to guess it seemed like he was trying to get more peanut butter? That couldn't be right. "Dwarves make no sense." He said under his breath. He then looked to the others, "So what do you all make of the king? Seems trustworthy enough."

As they're conversation came to a close Mikael turned down the hallway, "I think we can agree our next stop is the temple." He then spoke to Godric and Torrick, "I know this isn't what either of you came here for, but Imbellem and I could use all the help we can get. Are you with us?"

Unless anyone objected he started on his way to the temple with anyone else coming along.

All the while the king spoke, Imbellem scanned the room, trying to take in as much information as possible

Sense motive, -6- NAT 1

Perhaps it was too much information for the attention deficit priest to attempt tackling at once, all the dwarven runes on the books behind the king were so very enticing.

"I agree, he seemed like a very open and trustworthy man" he responded in tandem with Mikael, "However..." He added, throwing water on the theoretical 'happy-time' fire, "I cant shake this feeling he was not all he appeared to be." Reaching into his pack, he rummaged for a moment, creating a cacophony of clanks and clatters, only to pull out the box given to them by the 'dead' man from earlier. "I noticed a box, much like this one on the shelf with his books. Now, thats an odd item to have for someone who never met the one who gives these out eh?" He posed to the men, raising a suspicious eyebrow. "I could be wrong however, it could simply be a gift passed from man to man... but I dont know, its strange."

Not looking for the facial reactions of his comrades, Imbellem opened the small box again, wincing ever so slightly, expecting more confetti to look at the cloak he had received from his riddle-war from the eccentric fellow. "Yes, yes I agree about the priestess. She is a very high priority..." His words didnt have his usual authoritative, solid sound when it came to his decision making. "I uh... There is a temple in this city. I would very much like to have the local church tell me more about this if possible. Also to attempt to learn more from their religion so I may understand more about our situation. You can go again and I will meet you there. I feel like this could either be a large help, or a massive inconvenience. Either way, I must know if I should keep it, or burn it at a stake." The cleric slowly turned, scanning the area for locals who had the know-how to get him to the temple all while keeping his friends in the line of sight.

Upon noticing a very well groomed dwarf with a more docile face as opposed to the usual, 'if you talk to me there's a 60% chance i will punch you in the face' look of other dwarves. Imbellem turned to his companions and stated, "Unless we have more planning to do, I believe i've found my guide. Unless Torrik would be willing? Either way, I have my destination."

"Not a bad idea." Mikael responded to Imbellem. "Will you two join us?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:43, Thu 23 June 2016.

Godric thought for a moment to himself about the dwarven king. before responding to his new companions
 "I think he seemed trustworthy as well. I'm a little surprised that he didn't consider what happened to us with the supposedly dead man as being possibly related to the problem. I would have thought he would consider anything as they don't seem to have any explanation for the current happenings."
Godric then responded to their inquiry about helping them "Well since I don't really have anything else to do here other than come with you, I'll gladly help. I'm rather curious about whats going on and I'll never turn down an opportunity for adventure and battle."

Godric agreed to join them in their quest, and they were glad to have him. It was always nice to have a tower of muscle around in a dangerous world. Together they looked at Torrick expectantly, and to their relief, he consented with a silent nod.

As they left the castle, Imbellem pondered heavily on the King's true intentions.

"You don't think the King was secretly after our peanut-butter, do you?" asked Imbellem earnestly.

"No, no, of course not. Don't be silly," replied Mikael. However, even Mikael could not shake the feeling that the King really did want their peanut-butter and resolved to keep a closer eye on their stock from there on out.

As they walked down the tiers of the city, Imbellem took a moment to ask for directions from a passerby dwarf, had a brief argument on the superiority of beards versus mustaches, and only after letting the stubborn dwarf win, managed to learn the location of the temple. They found it on the second tier of the city, not far from the garden where they had first run into the King.

The temple, like many of the important buildings, was partially built into the side of the mountain. Its front oaken doors were guarded on both sides by two giant statues of dwarven warriors, each forty feet high, their stone faces forever gazing across the valley. There were no buildings built in front of the temple, instead being a spacious plaza, and the adventurers could clearly see the evergreen forests on the mountain opposite them and the snowy peaks beyond. Evening had fallen upon the city {Dusk in 1 hour; You feel hungry}.

The adventurers entered the temple. It wide marble hall was full of people, but most of them were bandaged and laying in rows upon cloth mats. Godric counted roughly fifty wounded. Female dwarves in silky black robes with veiled headresses walked briskly between them like so many shadowy ghosts, some administering food and water, others performing prayers, and others still replacing bandages.

A dwarven woman approached them, but this woman was not one of those wearing black robes. Instead she wore a lavender tunic and beige trousers, and her hair was black with a white stripe on one side. They had seen her before.

"Hey, you were just at the castle, weren't you?" said Ranna, the King's daughter.

"Yea," said Mikael. "We were hoping to talk to one of the priestesses about what's going on."

"That's good of you," she replied. "A lot of the people are physically wounded, but its the emotional wounds that hurt the most, those from either losing family or their futures. They draw strength and courage from seeing others care about their situation."

"Ranna, could you give me a hand with this?" asked of the nearby priestesses in black robes.

"Certainly," Ranna answered. "Farewell." She departed their company with a brief wave.

As she left, one of the priestesses noticed them and approached. Her black veil hid her eyes, but she still seemed able to see them through it; her black silk robes swayed as she walked. "Hello, I am Sister Yelna. Do you need assistance travelers?"

"Yes," said Godric. "We wanted to ask for information, about a certain god."

Sister Yelna nodded courteously, "Of course. We are happy to provide services and teachings on the divine. Come with me and we'll speak elsewhere so as not to disturb those in recovery."

Taking their leave of the main chamber, they went down a short hall and into another room. This chamber was smaller than the other one and, oddly, dimly light. But as their eyes adapted, they quickly realized they were not alone. This chamber had over twenty tables, arranged in three rows to fill the room, and on each table was a dwarf – men, women, and even a few children. At first the adventurers were horrified in thinking they had been brought to a morgue, but then they noticed the pink color in their cheeks and the gentle rise and fall of their chests. The dwarves were asleep, despite being without blankets or bedding.

"Do not mind them," said Sister Yelna. "They are in the death sleep and are unfortunately unable to wake. We can converse here and not bother them. You may ask your questions."

Godric was momentarily stunned by seeing all the unconscious dwarves and could not shake the discomfort he felt being surrounded by them, feeling as though he were surrounded by corpses readied for autopsy. After a few seconds, he regained self-awareness and urged himself to continue speaking.

"Erm, yes. We wanted to ask for information. . . about a god named Bagna."


This message was last edited by the GM at 12:07, Sun 26 June 2016.

As Sister Yelna stepped down the hall and left the adventurers alone, Imbellem turned to the others and spoke pensively, "This one is a real headscratcher."

"Agreed," said Mikael as he pondered intensely. "I feel as if this were a great puzzle. And we are mere inches from solving it."

Torrick leaned against one of the heavy tables. He felt burdened at having done so little for his kin thus far. He was no great thinker nor solver of puzzles. He sighed heavily.

Suddenly Godric froze. "Friends," he stated in a strange, strained tone.

"What?" asked Imbellem. "Did you think of something?"

Godric shook his head slowly and continued staring wide-eyed past Torrick. The others turned around.

Every dwarven body in the chamber was standing up.

They stood beside their tables, corpse-like, facing the party with half-opened eyes. Their faces were shadowed in the dim light. Those nearest of adventurers abruptly charged, lurching, groping – as though they intended to tear the adventurers to pieces.





This message was last edited by the GM at 00:17, Mon 27 June 2016.

Mikael watches the dwarves lunge at Imbellem and Torrick. There was some relief in seeing them fend off the surprise so easily. He drew both of his swords. "Well this just got a bit more interesting!" He looked around the room for anyone else or to see if there is anything to take note of {Spot check}. "Where did that priestess go?"

09:57, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Spot check.

Mikael set his gaze upon the dwarf closest to him (Z) and prepared to bring his sword down on him. He needed to be careful, surely their minds are being affected and these are not their enemies.  He attempted to strike the dwarf, but in a way that would only leave him disabled. {Non-lethal attack; -4 to AR} With a quick and precise motion his sword came down.

09:42, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Attack roll 'Z'.
09:42, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 6 using 1d6+4.  Damage roll 'Z'.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:57, Mon 27 June 2016.

Torrick could not die.  He had not found any of his kin yet.  He had not found someone more able and worthy to carry the family axe.  He knew what he must do to assure that he would not die here today.

"MORADIN FORGIVE ME" Torrick roared as he broke his long brooding silence drawing his ornate axe from his back.  "Any dwarf I know deserves a clean death.  I will try to make it fast."   He spoke apparently to their newly risen enemies.

With a giant heave Torrick swings his axe at the closest one.


18:43, Today: Torrick Axebearer rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  Attack roll "x".

18:45, Today: Torrick Axebearer rolled 10 using 2d8+2.  Damage "x".
This message was last edited by the player at 04:49, Sun 03 July 2016.

Imbellem stood in shock as he saw the previously comatose dwarves suddenly stand and was caught so off guard, one of them grabbed him. He shook the dwarf off and stood wide-eyed as Mikael and Torrick sprang into action

From what he saw, he noticed Mikael was being careful not to cause physical harm to the dwarves, Torrick however... Torrick roared into action with the intent to kill. Imbellems wide eyes began to close into a squint due to the furled brow. The priest was very angry

"TORRICK!" He shouted, not with a voice of fear, but one of anger "What the hell are you doing!" he continued, spit beginning to fly out of his mouth as he screamed in rage. "These men do not know what they do! You might as well run into the previous room and attack the sleeping children!" His voice easily topping the sounds of the fight, Imbellem began to feel adrenaline fill his body. He wanted nothing more than to stop the frantic dwarf, even if it meant putting him down himself... The priests eyes began to water, and face became red, an unfortunate visceral response to rage. Not very intimidating.

"You surprise me, dwarf" he said, as torrick brought his axe back after attacking. "You attack with malicious intent to your own kin... wounded, and controlled kin at that!" He began to walk forward, reaching for his hammer to stop him from causing anymore harm, but then stopped as he say Mikaels eyes. A look that almost said 'Dont'

Imbellem shook his head, "Im going to grab the priestess. Im afraid if I stay I will..." his voice trailed off slightly, collecting once more to finish his thought, "do NOT hurt anyone or I will deal with you myself! ALL OF YOU!" He shouted in anger to all his friends, something he'd end up regretting later. The cleric shot one more harsh gaze to the dwarf and took off into a sprint down the hall to warn the others

Godric was surprised that at Torrick's attack. As much as he liked fighting, he wouldnt attack helpless creatures. "Why don't we just leave this place, that way we could avoid any bloodshed until we figure out what's going on with these dwarves?" Godric moved towards Torrick, trying to grab him and drag him away from the combat.

Dark stone walls, two flickering torches, over twenty dwarves. The dim lighting cast black shadows across their many faces. Most stood as still as statues, dispassionately watching the adventurers fight like some horrifying audience. They watched with half-open eyes. Their pupils were gone, replaced with an unnatural pure whiteness.

The dwarves closest to the adventurers had broken from their stupor and lunged, like beasts starving for food, like madmen. The adventurers desperately wrestled them away.

Mikael hastily took out his shortsword and swiped at them, only intending to disable. He struck better than he had hoped for {Critical Hit ~ 14 Non-lethal Dmg}. He severed a nerve in the dwarf's leg, and the dwarf crumpled up on the floor.

Torrick, however, lost control. In a blaze of passion, he drew his exceptionally large axe and aimed to bring a quick death to his brethren. His companions saw what he was about to do, and their eyes grew wide; he was about to kill innocent dwarves. . . in a temple of all places! . . Godric moved fast.

With speed and strength befitting a barbarian, Godric swiftly moved behind Torrick and grabbed him in a serpent's embrace with his muscular arms:



Imbellem, seeing that situation come under control, ran down the tunnel to find the priestess, to warn her of what's happening, to get help. But before he reached halfway down the hall, he met the priestess already arriving on her way back to them!

"You shouldn't run in the halls," scolded Sister Yelna politely. "You could run into someone."

"Sister. . . They're. . . The dwarves. . . They! . ." Imbellem panted heavily between breathes. Then, rather than explaining, he decided to show her; he grabbed her arm – to her shock – and pulled her toward the room. They entered a moment later. "See!" exclaimed Imbellem. He gasped, and his expression to change into surprise.

"What's going on here?" said Sisten Yelna hotly.

Godric, Torrick, and Mikael looked at them, their weapons drawn, then turned back to face the swarm of dwarves – only to see that all of them, every last one, was now laying on their tables, asleep, exactly as they were. They stared at the scene in bewilderment, which appeared as though nothing had ever happened. They could hardly speak short of shock.

Finally Sister Yelna said, "It's disrespectful to have weapons drawn in a temple. You'd best put those away. . . The High Priestess will see you now." She turned and stormed down the hall, expecting them to follow.

The adventurers gave a wary glance at the still bodies of the dwarves. Had it all been a dream? As they cautiously slid their weapons back into their sheathes and followed the priestess, Godric lingered behind. He heard a drip-drop sound. His head turned and glared at the leg of a sleeping dwarf, where there was a cut, and where blood was gently dripping off the table. It was the dwarf Mikael had wounded.

"Not a dream. . ." murmured Godric under his breath. Keeping his eyes on the dwarves, he warily left the room.

Sister Yelna led them back to the main hall and to its farthest end where five marble statues towered in a half-circle. None of the wounded were kept in this part of the temple, and its only current occupant was an old dwarven woman in black robes, tracing her finger in a basin of water which sat atop a pedestal. Sister Yelna made a gesture, indicating to the adventurers to go and speak with her, then left them – not as friendly as she once was.

But the old dwarven priestess made no such signs of ill-will as the adventurers approached her. They approached timidly, uncertain of the proper way to greet a High Priestess. The High Priestess spoke, her voice old but gentle.

"Sister Yelna tells me you saw a visage of the priest Falameezen in the forest." She continued dragging her finger across the surface of the water, her veiled eyes seeing something they couldn't. "If this is true. . . then you will all die."


This message was last edited by the GM at 14:33, Wed 06 July 2016.

Imbellem secured his hammer on his side, brushing off the dust from its hilt. Ignoring the stifled giggles of Mikael, he checked his breastplate for any indentation.

Wanting to ignore an embarrassing conversation, he spoke aloud, "It seems we dont have much of a choice here, we are going to have to deal with frost giant... maybe giants" He said, turning around, flattening his short beard with a downward motion between two fingers, "I do have the ability to dispel them, however I worry the enchantment may be too strong, if indeed placed upon them by a deity." Imbellem looked around, trying to speed up the workings of his mind.

As his eyes grazed the crowd, he noticed a rather lovely dwarven woman - or more accurately, the golden pendant necklace as the sun glared across its lovely engraved surface. He must have been gazing rather intently, because the cleric did not notice she was walking with her husband and his gruff, angry face broke the line of sight and snapped imbellem out of his trance in a rather aggressive full body twitch. Upon reflection, the Necklace was rather low on the dwarfs chest... That must have not looked good

Within his internal monologue, he had a thought, "Frost giants," He began with a brief pause, "Even though they may be enchanted, one thing that reigns supreme in their minds is their lust for fine jewelry. Even though it must be hard to find good looking rings, bangles, or necklaces in giant size." A smile crept along his face "I would be willing to wager if they found something of elaborate style, they would be hard pressed to pass it by."

By the confused look of his comrades, he decided to elaborate - "If we were to contact the local smith, we could create some form of jewelry in the size of a giant and then asked for the church or some other magical foundation, we could curse the item. That way when the giant collected it and put it on, we could dispel the curse, immobilize it, or even effect its mind to help us!"

By the far fetched idea, he learned to get confirmation from the group before doing something silly. "...Maybe? Do you think it would work?"

"Frost giants? Where did you get that from?" Mikael wrinkled his brow wondering where Imbellem was coming up with this. "You mean that troll we encountered earlier? Nonetheless a good idea. I'll accompany you. Then let us retire to the Dowry once we have prepared. After spending time at see and in the woods the dustiest room will feel like a royal bedroom." He gathered himself and followed next to Imbellem to find a smith.

The adventurers reflected on the long day. The cold tower they had woke up in this morning seemed like an age ago.

They remembered how they had left the door of the lonely stone tower where they had spent the night, wondering if a whitetroll still awaited them outside, and finding out they would live yet another day. There, they found themselves accompanied by a new, mostly unconscious friend, a dwarf named Torrick.

They remembered how they had traveled all morning through the Sentinel Forest, a grove of the largest trees they had ever seen, and had a strange conversation with the strange Falameezen, who they had now discovered was a priest of Bagna, the God of Nightmares, that had been executed over twenty years ago.

They remembered how they had arrived at Shelterpeak, the fortress capital of the Comoset dwarves, and had a literal run-in with the King, King Odiff, delivering the letter that brought them to Comoset in the first place; and at the same time, learning more about the mysterious Falameezen.

They remembered how they had visited the Temple and spoke with Sister Yelna and the High Priestess, learning that the Falameezen they had met in the woods may not have been a ghost after all, but a dreamed reflection of his spirit, one that may be very much alive in a hidden Dream Realm, causing the curse that now beset the dwarves of Comoset.

And most recently, they remembered how Ranna, the King's daughter, caught them in the plaza as they left the Temple and pleaded to join them, to participate in bringing the sufferings of her people to an end; and to which they agreed after a brief spectacle of Imbellem losing a fight to a girl.

Needless to say, the day had been eventful.

Now, the night sky stretched over them, dotted with a million glistening stars, stars that seemed brighter here in the mountains than they had ever seemed on the isle of Perdane. The plaza was silent. The dwarven people slept. The stores were all closed. And the only remaining signs of life were in the taverns, where patrons drank and sang late into the night.

Since the blacksmiths were asleep, they headed straight for the inns, seeking shelter from the peaceful city.

The adventurers headed down a grand set of steps to the first tier of the city, which was like an enormous terrace carved into the mountain and crowded with buildings, and found their way to the noise. It was not hard to find the lanterns hanging outside and the boisterous dwarven voices. A drunk dwarf pissing in the street might as well have been a sign that the tavern was here, promising fun times. But above him also hung an actual sign: The Dowry Inn, screaming cheap rooms and cheap drinks.

They entered inside to find a full house, dwarves packed end to end; and despite being high in the mountains, the room was stifling hot. For a moment they thought they were on the jungle isle of Noanatu. They squeezed through the dwarves, dodged drinks, were scratched by beards, and after a journey as arduous as any they'd had that day, reached the bar counter.

Mikael called over the noise and caught the attention of a barmaid. "Excuse me! We'd like a room please!"

"Sorry hun," replied the barmaid, practically shouting to be heard. "We're booked, sold out, not a space left!"

Her shouted was suddenly replaced by an even louder shouting from the stairs. Two dwarves who seemed to work for the bar pulled another dwarf down the steps, dragging him unceremoniously behind them, kicking and yelling. The crowded tavern made way for them as they headed for the door, a seemingly impossible feat of the crowd, squeezing together more than Mikael already thought possible. He felt a blonde-bearded dwarf press into him.

"No taking axes to the furniture!" shouted of the dwarves doing the dragging.

"It turned into an orc, I swear!" hiccuped the dwarf being dragging, who was obviously and absurdly drunk.

The two dwarves threw him out the door and into the night. The barmaid then touched Mikael's shoulder.

"A room just opened up!" she said cheerfully.

Mikael payed her the three gold it cost for the night, flagged down his companions, and guided them through the crowd and up the stairs. He opened the room the barmaid had given him a key for, and they all flooded inside. The room was a wreck. There were axe marks on the armoire and bed posts as though a barbarian had entered a frenzy, but for the most part, everything was intact.

"A room's a room," shrugged Imbellem, throwing himself on one of the two beds.

At least tonight they wouldn't freeze to death.

Godric looked around at all the damaged furniture, raising his brow. "Looks like someone had a battle in here. Better than nothing though." He went to the corner of the room and began to set down all of his equipment. "Well we should get some rest, we are gonna have a long day tomorrow."

Imbellem rested his face underneath his arms, trying to block out as much light as possible as he nestled deeper into the mattress. "I don't care how messy a room is," he said, mouth under his hands and into the bed so the others could hardly hear what he was saying, "I've slept in a hollow log before and was waken up to other adventurers starting a fire on me without knowing i was there. This is great" he added with a stretch

"Well a couple of drunk dwarves sure beats spending the night around that troll the other night." Mikael said with a sigh of relief. Although, he did check the handle on the door to ensure they wouldn't be rudely disturbed by any others. "And we will see what this Falameezen is really up to."

Godric, Imbellem, and Mikael fell asleep in their room while Torrick stayed up for a drink or two. However, it wasn't until the next morning that they'd discovered it had been a little more than two.

"Torrick?" said Mikael as he shook the unconscious dwarf, slumped over on a table piled high with empty mugs.

Torrick snored a reply, a sound echoed by ten or so other dwarves strewn around the tavern.

"I don't think he's going anywhere," Mikael diagnosed.

"This can't wait," stated Godric grimly, tightening the leather straps that held his sheathed greatsword on his back. "Let's go."

Godric and Mikael headed out the door of the tavern with Imbellem following behind, letting out a large yawn as he stepped into the morning light; the sun had yet to escape the mountainous horizon, casting a fiery streak of orange across the eastern sky. They mounted their horses. Imbellem allowed Mikael to ride with him, and together they trotted down to the gates of the city where they met Ranna, the dwarven princess of Comoset. She looked drastically different than she had last night, her pitch black hair now tied in a taut bun, and her dress replaced by studded leather armor.

"I'm glad to see you recovered okay," she said, smirking at Imbellem. "After that beating I gave you."

Godric and Mikael chuckled while Imbellem darkly squinted at her. "Don't push it, princess."

Ranna rode with Godric, and the four of them left the city on horses at a fierce pace. They trotted up the side of the valley and entered the pass near the top, and once again found themselves in the Sentinel Forest, where the trees grew five hundred feet high and as thick as houses.

"If I remember right," mentioned Imbellem. "The High Priestess back at Shelterpeak said that old Bagna shrine was somewhere around the west side of the forest."

"Yea," corroborated Mikael, keeping his elven eyes sharp.

They steered their horses off the road. Travel off the road turned out to be easy as there was little brush, and the ground in-between the sentinel tree trunks was spacious. It took them nearly two hours to find the old shrine of Bagna, at the base of a cliff on the west side of the valley. In a clearing between the cliff and three sentinel trees stood a ruined pair of stone legs, broken off at the knees. The upper part of the statue had been shattered into rocks and boulders that now laid strewn around the clearing, overgrown with moss. Based on the size of the legs, they figured the statue must have been at least thirty feet when it was first built.

"We found it," said Ranna. ". . What do we do now?"

"Now," said Godric. "We sleep. Supposedly, this will take us to the Dream Realm."

She eyed him skeptically as they dismounted. Gathering near the base of the statue, they laid down on the leaves and moss, which made a surprisingly soft bed. Godric frowned as he made his horse lie down, uncertain if it could follow into the world they were about to enter. Then, there was only one thing left to do.

"I can't sleep," said Mikael, adjusting his head on a rock.

"Me neither," grumbled Godric.

"Wait, I have an idea," announced Imbellem. "Ranna, tell us about your day."

"Oh, well, first I woke up and talked to my servant Hertrude. She was wearing just the cutest necklace, so I had to ask her where she got it. She said she got it from a trader in Ertton, can you imagine that? She even bartered it down to ten percent off! Then I just had to talk to daddy about going to Ertton cause I was thinking of getting one like it, but maybe with an amethyst instead of a rose quartz cause amethyst is my birthstone. And then-"

Godric snored, and Ranna realized that Godric, Mikael, and Imbellem had all fallen asleep.

"Hey!" she cried. "I'm not that boring! I was just getting to the *yawn* good part. . ." Ranna, too, fell asleep.

And then, a few minutes later, they woke up.

Godric, Mikael, Imbellem, and Ranna opened their eyes, but they still saw the ruined statue and sentinel trees above them.

"Uh, wasn't something something supposed to happen?" asked Imbellem.

"Yea," replied Mikael. "Maybe we need to do it at night or something. . . Hey, was it this foggy when we got here?"


Glancing around, they saw that the forest and sky had been enveloped in a misty fog, and a soft, blue light seemed to permeate everything.

"Where are the horses?" asked Godric, realizing they were gone.

"You don't suppose we're in the Dream Realm after all, are we?" questioned Mikael.

Suddenly, as if in answer to his question, all the sentinel trees seemed more twisted than they were a second ago, and a thousand shadows fleeted through the fog. The surreal and abrupt movement of the world startled all four of them onto their feet, and they drew their weapons.

"I think that answers your question," said Godric.

Getting their bearings, they glanced around. To the west, there was a steep cliff face like before, but now, it seemed to stretch into the infinity of space. To the north, something glittering caught their eye, the hilt of a luminescent sword that had been plunged into the trunk of a sentinel tree, something that definitely hadn't been there in the waking world. To the east, the fog grew denser, and a large, haunting shadow moved through it. And from the south, a humming echoed in the air, the sound of a jovial song.

Pick one
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:19, Mon 16 Jan 2017.

Upon seeing the sword, Mikael immediately grabs it and attempts to pull it out of the tree.

13:58, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 5 using 1d20.  STR check; Pull sword out of tree.

The moment Mikael gripped the sword and pulled, the golden hilt morphed into a branch-like hand, twigs growing from its gnarled fingers. It grabbed Mikael's hand in return, tightly, and forced him into a grapple.

14:25, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 26 using 1d20+xx.  Tree Grapple Check vs Mikael.

Mikael tried to escape free, but failed.

20:21, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 4 using 1d20+3 ((1)). (nat 1)

The fingers of the branch-like hand grew at an unnatural speed, climbing and curling around Mikael's arm, then his waist and legs.

12:15, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Mikael Vaeltaja, rolled 8 using 1d20+6.  Grapple Check: Defend against Pin.
12:14, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 15 using 1d20+xx.  Tree Grapple Check: Pin + Constrict.
DM Ryan
12:16, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 12 using 2d6+5.  Tree: Constrict Damage

The branches tightened around his body, crushing him. Mikael is presently in a pin.

"I'm coming!" 14:33, Wed 18 Jan: Secret Roll: Imbellem Tueri rolled 24 using 1d20+8.  Grapple check: aid Mikael.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:41, Sun 22 Jan 2017.

The adventurers quickly realized that it was wrong to call this place the Dream Realm - the Nightmare Realm was a much better name. From the trunk of the Sentinel Tree, the branch grew and curled around Mikael's limbs, choking and crushing him like a many-headed snake. Mikael tried to pull away, but the twigs of the branch tightened, painfully holding him in place; he shouted as they cut into his skin.

Horrified, Imbellem, Ranna, and Godric leapt to his aid. Imbellem dove into the ever-growing branch and started tearing away at the twigs while Ranna and Godric grabbed Mikael's free hand and pulled. In the trunk of the tree, hundreds of faces emerged, as though the bark was merely a film or liquid, the tree a container of souls. They whispered in languages that made no sense, but it still felt like they spoke of secrets that you were never meant to hear.

Mikael, for a brief moment, ripped through one of the branches holding him in place {Escape Pin Success}, but the branch simply grew back, bigger and more terrifying than before {Re-Pin Success}, crushing him further {Mikael takes 14 Dmg (HP: 34/60)}. On the verge of panic, Imbellem embraced Mikael in the wooden web and pulled with all his might, and, miraculously, he carried them both out from the thickets of the branch and into safety, where they collapsed onto the open grass as free men {Grapple Success – NATURAL 20 vs NATURAL 1}. The branch clawed at the empty air but was no longer able to reach them; disappointed at the loss of its victim, the branch, along with the many faces, receded into the trunk of the tree, until it once again looked like an ordinary plant.

Imbellem, Ranna, Godric, and Mikael breathed heavily, with relief and exhaustion at their near misfortune. Imbellem shot Mikael a dark glance.

"The next time you see a shiny sword sticking out of a tree, especially one in a wierd dream dimension, please don't touch it."

"Understood," replied Mikael, rubbing his wounds.

Imbellem then hugged him, now simply glad he wasn't dead, and Godric helped them on their feet.

"That was the scariest thing I'd ever seen," said Ranna, brushing aside her black hair, now damp with sweat.

"Hopefully," said Godric. "That's as scary as it gets."

"Let's try south this time," advised Mikael, as the sound of a hummed song drifted from that direction. "It sounds friendly enough."

Keeping close together, the party wandered south through the Sentinel Trees, letting the song be their guide. Strangely enough, the forest looked a lot like how did in the waking world, most everything in the same place, with nothing unusual at first glance. It wasn't until the second glance that things got strange. Trees seemed to shift and move when they weren't looking, but only enough to make them doubt, and the luminous fog seemed to cover the whole world, with no sky visible through its eerie blue haze.

From the trees, the party entered a clearing, one they did not think existed in the waking world, for in the center of this clearing was a black pit that descended into infinity. On the other side of the pit was a ruin, consisting of a platform, an alter, and a few crumbling pillars. And standing on this platform was a dwarf with a silver beard, wearing pale green robes, humming the song that led them there. The party recognized him instantly, for they had met him once before: Falameezen.

He looked at them through his bright green eyes, his face a gentle one in every respect. The party struggled to comprehend how this kind-looking old man was responsible for all the evils they came to stop. But as they had learned earlier with the sword, nothing was ever as it seemed in this place. He smiled at their arrival.

"Ah, you finally made it. I'm so glad you're here!"

Continued in Chatroom.

Falameezen seemed ecstatic at your arrival. "Hello, hello! And a minute early too! Tsk, tsk, that won't do. Would you like to leave and try again? It's good to be punctual you know. No? Well then, how would you like to hear a story? since we have all this time!"

Well apologies on the early arrival. I'm up for a good story.

"Once upon a time," began Falameezen. "There was a king among dwarves, and in the later years of his reign, this dwarf king and his wife gave birth to daughter. But something was wrong with their daughter, for when she was born, she did not cry nor open her eyes nor do anything at all. The king sent for all his healers and priests, but none could cure the infant of her illness. And so the king and his wife despaired and given their child up for death - until a new priest came their way, claiming he could cure her. This priest was not a servant of their usual church, but the servant of a forgotten god, a god of dreams.'

"The priest and the king made a deal, that the priest would cure the infant in exchange for a shrine to his god, and to share his god's wisdom with others. And the deal was made. The priest, true to his promise, cured the infant, whose cries and sounds of life filled her parents with joy. And in return, the king build the priest a shrine to his god, and all was well. Over a happy couple years, pilgrims came from the town and all over to give and offering to the god of dreams, and were blessed with happy dreams and visions of beautiful wisdom in their sleep. . . But some poor souls were overwhelmed by the glory and wisdom of what they'd see, unable to handle the secret the noble god told them, yet that they had asked for. And these poor souls went mad.'

"The king heard of this and blamed the god of dreams, instead of the foolishness of his seekers! And, breaking his promise, he came with guards and smashed the very shrine he built, and killed the priest so that he would not come seeking repayment. And he thought the matter settled. But, the god of dreams, though he sleeps, does not forget, and he cursed the dwarven people, and especially their king. Cursed them until their kingdom crumbles, much the same as the shrine that was shattered. . . or until the repayment is given. . . And that's as far as I've got on the story. Not sure where I heard it, but it's a pretty nice tale, don't you think?"

"I heard," Ranna cried out defiantly, "That is wasn't just -some- people who went mad, but tons! A husband even killed his wife in his sleep!

Falameezen shook his head sadly, "Couldn't handle the glorious wisdom. . . Anyway!" He instantly perked up to his usual, ecstatic self. "There's a secret I'd like to tell you, one that not even your DM told you - whatever a DM is. Would you like to hear what it is?"

"What are you talking about? DM?  I suppose since we have the time I'd like to hear it. Also what is this repayment that needs to be given to lift the curse from the dwarves?"

"That," said Falameezen with a smile, "Is part of the secret! You see, there are actually two endings to this story! Exciting, isn't it? One ending is that you try and break this altar behind me," He gestured toward the altar on the platform, "the conduit that channels the Bagna's holy curse to the Waking World. But, I'm afraid, I'd have to try and stop if you did that. The other ending is much more interesting, and that is repay that which was given. To give back the life that the priest gave. Her life to be exact." He pointed at Ranna, to her surprise. "For this, you much toss her into the black hole there, back to the unformed, the true realm of the God of Dreams. If you do this, you gain a special, one-time opportunity: You enter the covenant of Bagna and join our oh-so ancient order. You'd gain special abilities, immunity to sleep spells, resistance to mind-affecting spells, and other little perks - while in return you act in the service of Bagna. It's a good deal, I promise! All you need to do is give back what was given, a sacrifice that never costed anything. . . So, choose your ending!"

13:44, Today: Godric Lothar rolled 9 using 1d20+5.  Knowledge adventure on Falameezen.
13:46, Today: Godric Lothar rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Knowledge adventure on Falameezen- On behalf of Imbellum.
13:48, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Knowledge adventure; Falameezen.
4:13PM

For free on examination, you can tell that Falameezen, one on one, has an Impossible rating, but vs your group rating (which is 11), he is rated as Very Difficult. Your Knowledge Adventure checks discern only that his class is that of a Mystic Theurge. As to what that is, you aren't exactly sure.

Falameezen! I have a bit of a wadger for you... you posed a riddle to me before, perhaps I, a lowly priest, may return the favor?

Falameezen: "Riddles, riddles. I do like riddles."

"I realized you do! So, how would you like to play a bit of a game..."

Falameezen: How can you bite a game?

Typo, leave me alone

Falameezen: Leave you alone? Do you want me leave!? Can't do that, no. Must take care of the altar you see.

Er, my mistake, I was thinking of something else entirely... a bit of a game

Falameezen: Come then, tell of your game!

I liked your riddle so much, I may have come up with one of my own! And if you win, you get your way

Falameezen: What way? Up? Down?

Side to side, diagonal. You can get what you've asked for

Falameezen: I ask for nothing! Come now, why do you dally?!

You can do what you will with the girl

Falameezen: I'm an old man! What are you suggesting!?

*Godric looks at Imbellum and his eyes seem to say what in the world are you doing*

Ew gross, what's wrong with you?.. the life of the girl. And ours if it would be so fitting
*looks at goric and raises a brow*

Falameezen: Yours lives!? I don't want your lives. I already had one. Tedious things.

Oh good, that would be unpleasant

Falameezen: I do have a riddle for you though! . . First I'm dark, then I'm light, sometimes crying, but never contrite. What am I?

...just a second. Might you be.. the sky?

Falameezen applauded. "Excellent! Well done!"

Now you've had your fun, how about my turn? You know what you win, now how would you like to know what I would win? It's only fair after all. I've solved two of yours.

Imbellem received the buff: Bagna's sight. He gains a +1 bonus to attack roll for the next hour.

If I win, you step away from the altar and leave us be until we call on you

Falameezen: How could I protect the altar though if I leave? No, no, can't do that.

You are far more clever than I, surely you cant think you can fail.. can you?

Falameezen: I'm afraid I'm full of failures!

How surprising! Tell me, what if you instead of leaving, you grant me a request

Falameezen: I'm not very good at grants. The university never gave me many.

what can i say, some universities are sticklers for things of the sort... How about instead of a grant, you allow me one wish if you will. Nothing beyond your power

Falameezen: I wish I could grant wishes. I also wish I could wish for grants. Or should I wish for grants that grant wishes?

i wish grant.. for a... Ah this is ridiculious, do you want an easy game? you get the girls life, or I get you to leave. simple as that

Falameezen: No thanks! I'm much too shy to have a life.

are... do... am i missing something. I feel like i covered that pretty well *looking to the others*

"You're both mad!" cried Ranna. "You know I'm standing right 'ere, right!? I won't be bartered away or betted on! We must save my people! Attack!"

*I extend my hand toward the lunging dwarf (I cast hold person)*

20:29, Today: DM Ryan rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Ranna. Will Save vs Hold Person.
Ranna freezes in place.

*During the arguing Godric does a spot check on the altar to examine how it may be destroyed*

i walk near Ranna and whisper to her while continuing toward fala "i got this, i wont let anything happen to you. . . So? how bout the game then?

Spot Check ~ The Altar appears to be made of stone, but as you've learned in this world, appearances can be deceiving. You imagine it could be broken with a few hits of damage.
Although Ranna can't move or speak, you can feel the burn of her eyes. She is not happy.

"sorry"

Falameezen: Ah, you mean one of your edible games?

*drops head* So you have it set that you wont leave the altar be, i understand. What if you can make the nightmares stop, and return this back to how they were before

Falameezen: Oh no, I can't do that. I can't do anything you see. Don't you remember what I told you? Bagna's Curse and all that.

can you help us break it?

Falameezen: Break it!? Break the altar!?! No, no, no. One rule is not to break it. If you're trying to break it, that means I have to stop you. Shame, shame. . . Well, good luck to you friends!

no the curse you silly man

Ranna unfreezes. "I hate you for that.

Falameezen casts some sort of spell, and combat rounds begin.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:55, Sun 29 Jan 2017.

Godric immediately begins to move toward Falameezen and the altar, while readying his weapon. He's sure to keep a few feet of space between himself and the black hole * double move to 12j*

""

Imbellem muttered under his breath "it was a good one too!"

The escalation of his voice resonated amungst the trees, echoing his woe to share his riddle

He then looked at the dwarf, who now likely wanted to attack him more than Falameezzen "Now I know what you're thinking," He said timidly, as he made his way to Mikaels side, "I was going to try to trick him into ruining everything for himself and not actually hand you over... Promise" he added with a tint of despair, "Feel free to do whatever you see fit after we survive this though!"

The cleric then made his way over to the elf who was still in rocky shape after his bout with... the tree.. Remembering this, Imbellem stifled a laugh and quickly bowed his head, reciting a prayer quickly under his breath


"God, you know me so well. You created me. You know the number of hairs on my head, and you even know the thoughts conceived in my heart before I ever vocalize them. You've told us to come to you and ask for every need of life. You are Jehovah, the God who heals, and you have the final word on my destiny, the number of years I'll live and serve you on earth.
I'm coming to you today as your child, longing to hear from you and asking for your divine healing. There's so much I don't understand about life. But I do know that with one touch, one word, you can make me whole. Please forgive me of my sins, cleanse me of my unrighteousness, and begin your healing from the inside out.

I thank you for this, as I know that even as I ask, you work. And it is in your name we pray, Amen"

A stern pat on the shoulder was the symbol that the time to fight was now...

Imbellem sidesteps to Mikael, resting his hand upon his shoulder
Imbellem Tueri rolled 22 Cure Serious Wounds - Mikael
Imbellem Drew his weapon

Mikael looked back to imbellem feeling quite refreshed. "Ah much better." He said with gratitude. He then looked one again to the old men who stood before them and prepared himself for anything. {Assign dodge to Falameezen}

As soon as Godric moves to the left, mikael moves to the right whole drawing both swords {move to R9}.

Spellcraft {Imbellem} ~ Falameezen waved his staff in the air, but as far as Imbellem could tell, nothing happened.

Hastily, Imbellem cast a healing spell on Mikael, which was the cue for Godric and Mikael to rush the altar. Weapons drawn, gleaming in the luminous mist, they split up and circled around the black pit, closing in on Falameezen.

Ranna, still standing near Imbellem, drew her sword and dagger. "If you want to make it up to me," she said to him, still snarky after his brief apology. "Another duel will suffice, where I plan to humiliate you a second time! But for now. . . FOR COMOSET!" Shouting a battlecry, she joined the sprint for the altar, following closely behind Mikael.

Godric was the first to arrive at the platform and was on the verge of climbing it when Falameezen glanced down at him, smiling with a twinkle in his eyes. "No, no, no. Tsk, tsk, tsk. This is my fort. You can't come up without my permission!"

Falameezen waved his staff, and suddenly, a huge wall of ice formed in the air! As though the luminous mist was rapidly condensing, the wall spread and grew thicker before their very eyes, forming a glacier-blue barrier that obscured Falameezen and the altar from view. Ten feet high, spanning between the two nearest sentinel trees, its cold sides looked perfectly smooth and had even retained some of the mist's glow. {1. X Dmg to break at 5 ft. location; 2. Strength DC X to break at 5 ft. location; 3. Jump DC 8 (Move Action) + Climb DC 20 (Move Action) to climb over.}

They could still hear Falameezen chuckling from behind it. "Come dreams and nightmares and pretty things. Come serve your lord Bagna."

The party knew these words had an ominous sound to them, but they were still startled when they heard a response, a high-pitched yelping that echoed from the depths of the black pit. Growing louder and louder, the yelping was soon upon them as black smoke rose from the altar and formed two creatures on the grass. Four-legged, beady glowing eyes, solid bodies yet not, smoking still rising from their backs – but what attracted your attention most of all was the teeth – the big, big teeth.



Moving rapidly, one of the Nightmare Hounds launched itself at Godric, practically diving at him with open jaws. Godric raised an arm up to protect himself, but its teeth simply sank into the arm {Nightmare Hound 1 deals 9 dmg to Godric (5 Normal + 3 Acid)}.

07:29, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 24 using 1d20+X.  NightmareHound: Attack @ Godric.
07:31, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 9 using 1d8+X+1d6.  NightmareHound: Dmg @ Godric.

The other Nightmare Hound sprinted at Mikael, who barely had time to lift his sword before the beast bit him in the thigh, and tore something away {Nightmare Hound 2 deals 9 dmg to Mikael (5 Normal + 3 Acid)}.

07:29, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 17 using 1d20+X.  NightmareHound 2: Attack @ Mikael.
07:31, Today: Secret Roll: DM Ryan rolled 9 using 1d8+X+1d6.  NightmareHound 2: Dmg @ Mikael.




This message was last edited by the GM at 13:02, Sun 29 Jan 2017.

Black smoke drifted from the Nightmare Hound's back as though it was evaporating, but never did it grow smaller. Its beady eyes glowed a haunting teal, with no pupils to be seen;- eyes from another world. With a shortsword in one hand and a rapier in the other, Mikael assumed his stance, a single rivulet of sweat racing down the contours of his face. The beast rumbled with something like an ethereal growl, something that could only exist in the darkest dreams. Mikael could intimately feel his wounded thigh where the creature had bit, but he fortified his mind and shoved the pain in its place, then, he launched himself upon his foe.

Swords blazing in a fury, he landed several powerful cuts on the Nightmare Hound, causing it to whimper something high-pitched and screeching, and black liquid oozed from its wounds, smoking on the ground as though it were acid {Mikael deals 18 dmg to Nightmare Hound 2}.



Ranna, who was right behind him, continued the attack with another series of quick strikes, landing an additional two. Wielding a longsword and dagger, she concluded with a final stab from her dagger into the Nightmare Hound's neck {Ranna deals 20 dmg to Nightmare Hound 2}, and its body suddenly dissipated into a cloud of smoke, then into nothing.

quote:

08:23, Today: DM Ryan rolled 8 using 1d4+4.  Ranna. Off hand, 2nd attack dmg.
08:22, Today: DM Ryan rolled 12 using 1d8+4.  Ranna. Main hand, 1st attack dmg.
08:22, Today: DM Ryan rolled 16 using 1d20.  Ranna. Off hand, 2nd attack @ 2.
08:21, Today: DM Ryan rolled 10 using 1d20+2.  Ranna. Main hand, 2nd attack @ 2.
08:21, Today: DM Ryan rolled 15 using 1d20+7.  Ranna. Off hand, 1st attack @ 2.
08:21, Today: DM Ryan rolled 16 using 1d20+9.  Ranna. Main hand, 1st attack @ 2.

They had successfully defeated it.

Mikael and Ranna exchanged glances, pleased at their spontaneous act of teamwork and the small victory, and they could feel the bond of allies growing between them.

"And this is why we didn't throw you down the well," said Mikael, being facetious.

Ranna smirked. "I'm not going to say to thank you."

However, their sense of easement was suspended when Falameezen chuckled madly, as though laughing at a hilarious inside joke. His voice echoed through the air in an ambiguous, spectral way, like the very mist that enveloped the world.

"There was once a man who could see,
All of the things he could be,
But then with a start,
Up spoke his heart,
Saying he could never be free."

The party then felt a sense of alarm as yelping rose again from the pit, and two more plumes of black smoke flew out from its depths. The smoke formed into creatures, one being another Nightmare Hound, and the other being something new – a large creature that stood on two legs and had a dark beak-like face. The Nightmare Hound sprinted to Imbellem, who donned a look of panic as it leapt upon him, but his armor resisted the long, pitch-black teeth {Nightmare Hound 3 misses Imbellem}.


The other creature, an Omen, advanced upon Mikael and made a powerful swipe with its shadowy claws, which Mikael, too, dodged only barely {Omen misses Mikael}.

Godric continued defending himself from the Nightmare Hound already at his back, batting it away as it repeatedly leapt on him like a ravenous dog {Nightmare Hound 1 misses Godric}.

Falameezen concluded with a poem.

"In this land we seek,
From plains to mountain peak,
But wherever we turn,
We always learn,
That the goal remains mystique."

"All of the children were still,
Standing still on the hill,
Such wonderful courtesy.
Standing so still for me,
And giving me an easy kill!"

From somewhere around the crumbling stone, left of the black pit, lights sprang into being. A bolt of lightning shot forth and struck Godric, who cringed as the electricity coursed through him {Falameezen deals 35 dmg to Godric}. Yet, while he twitched, he managed to fight off the Nightmare Hound, which assaulted him tirelessly {Nightmare Hound 1 misses Godric}.



At the same time, five violets lights soared from the near the stone like small shooting stars, and hit Imbellem feeling less like stars and more like hammers {Falameezen deals 10 dmg to Imbellem}. And, like Godric, he too fought off a Nightmare Hound, its teeth struggling to pierce through his plate armor {Nightmare Hound 3 misses Imbellem}.

Mikael and Ranna exchanged glances as the Omen formed in front of them, now glaring at them with glowing green eyes.

"Of course. . . There had to be a bigger one," groaned Ranna.

She attacked, striking furiously with her sword and dagger, landing two solid blows {Ranna deals 20 dmg to Omen}. The Omen swung its massive, shadowy claw in reply, which Mikael barely ducked {Omen misses Mikael}.


"I'm not sure much longer we can hold off like this!" cried Ranna, readying her blades for the next assault.

"Some travelers went to sleep,
And in dreams they went too deep,
And all thought with woe,
How they didn't know,
That here, we play for keep."


This message was last edited by the GM at 13:22, Sun 12 Feb 2017.

As Godric is struck with lightning, he begins to burn with anger. He steps back from the wall to allow room for his lance. He Lets out a loud yell and with both hands, he thrusts his lance into the wall to shatter a hole in it. {Enters Rage and attacks the wall with max power attack(-7 attack,+14 to dmg)}

Mikael regains his stance after narrowly missing the creatures attack. He swings both blades wildly in an attempt to cut it down. {full attack}

While the battle raged, the world seemed to contort. The branches of the trees twisted and gnarled, as if every clang of blades caused them to finch in irritation. The bark darkened to something poisonous and black, and, more horrifyingly, faces appeared in the bark, watching eagerly to see if more souls had come to join them in their eternal nightmare.

Godric thrust his lance into icy wall and pierced a small hole, sending a ripple of cracks through the rest of it and small chunks of ice flying. One more hit, he determined, would be enough to shatter a 5 ft. passage through. But regardless of the near success, the fact that it hadn't broken yet enraged him further, and he struck out at the nearby Nightmare Hound. Striking with the retraction of his lance, he hit it with such strength that it died instantly {Bonus AoO: Godric deals 24 dmg to Nightmare Hound 1}.



Meanwhile, Ranna and Mikael once again teamed up on their latest foe. Growing more in tune with the fighting style of the other, they attacked simultaneously in a penultimate flurry of blades {Mikael deals 14 dmg to Omen; Ranna deals 5 dmg to Omen}. Cut in many places, the smokey creature was unable to keep together, and bellowing an ethereal screech it dissolved into the air, entering the closest thing it knew as death.



Ranna and Mikael bumped fists.

"Help!" cried Imbellem, interrupting their mini-celebration.

The last remaining Nightmare Hound leapt up on Imbellem, who hid behind his shield. The creature's teeth were still unable to pierce his heavy armor, but the experience of the creature assaulting him was nonetheless terrifying {Nightmare Hound 3 misses Imbellem}.

Falameezen's voice echoed in the air.

"Madness, madness. That's what they say. But lo! I'm not mad! You're the mad one! I'll prove it so."

Godric, although already raged, suddenly felt his mind become even more foggy, as though his thoughts had been engulfed by the very mist that surrounded the world {Godric has become confused. Godric loses his combat turn next round}.



Left of the black pit, more violet lights sprang into being and shot at Imbellem, striking him with the weight of stones {Falameezen deals 19 dmg to Imbellem}.

Ranna sprinted back to Imbellem, to aid him against the Nightmare Hound that repeatedly thrashed upon his armor, though it still could not pierce his sturdy plate {Nightmare Hound misses Imbellem}.

Godric, however, acted strangely. Putting a hand to his head, he screamed wildly in horror, as though his blurred reflection in the wall of ice had become something terrifying, and he sprinted away from it as fast as he could {Confused, Godric flees to K1} {For a second time, Godric loses his combat round next turn}.

"Standing still like heaps of stone,
All the easier to break thy bone!"

Falameezen's ethereal voice reverberated from everywhere, as though it was spoken from the very ground, and suddenly, from left of the black pit, there came a dashing light, which then exploded and engulfed most of the party in flames {Falameezen deals 23 dmg to Imbellem & Nightmare Hound, and 11 dmg to Godric & Ranna}. Scorching not only the party, the Nightmare Hound, too, was struck by the flames and evaporated into a wisp of smoke {Nightmare Hound 3 was destroyed}.

"Sticks and stones may break thy bones,
But words cast spells,
Which burn thy face off."

Ranna sprinted over to Mikael and shook him violently. "We've got to move!" she cried. "My people depend on us!"

However, Mikael and Imbellem did not move, while Godric, whose mind was bewitched, muttered incoherently to himself about pumpkins {Godric is confused; Godric loses his combat turn next round}.

Ranna glanced to the side and gasped, for at that very moment another flash of light exploded, enveloping the area in flames once more {Falameezen deals 23 dmg to Ranna & Imbellem}.



Caught in the blast, Imbellem collapsed onto the ground unconscious on the very brink of death. Falameezen's ethereal voice continued to babble poems and nonsense.

"Once I was a young man,
Who did all a man can,
But soon I was old,
Or at least so I'm told,
And now it's a struggle to stand!"




This message was last edited by the GM at 12:52, Sun 05 Mar 2017.

Mikael comes back to his senses, doing everything he can to repress his fear from the fire. He grips both swords tightly with the heat to his back and he locks his eyes on the small hole in the wall that Godric started. Mikael charges at the crack to hit it with everything he has {Charge to K12}. "Imbellem hold on!" he yells as he makes contact with the ice.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:37, Mon 06 Mar 2017.

Godric's mind is in a complete fog. He hears lots of noise-it sounds like people yelling but he can't make out what they are saying. For that matter, he can't remember what he was even doing right now. Why is he holding his Lance? Why does his whole body hurt so much? "I think I better go feed the horses" he thinks to himself, suddenly loosing any perception of the world around him.

"My brother once said frogs are like people. Some hop, some croak, others just sort of sit there. Do you agree?"

Shaun did not respond.

"I think so too," continued Godric. ". . .Hey, do you ever wonder what time is made of?"

Shaun still did not respond as Godric conversed, slowly bleeding to death while barbarian loomed over him. . . {Godric is Confused, but he may act normally next round!}



Mikael, on the other hand, could barely hear Ranna over the ringing in his ears.

"IN – something – ICE – something," she yelled, only catching every other word.

The last fireball had exploded much too close for comfort, and his elven ears did not react kindly. And yet, the meaning was clear enough: Get through the ice, or we die. Together, Mikael and Ranna dashed toward the glacier blue wall, toward the crack which Godric had made earlier, before he had lost his mind. Mikael charged and thrust his sword at the wall, a thrust empowered with all his desperation and strength, and that section of the wall shattered into glittering small pieces, leaving a 5 x 5 ft. gap before him. He felt Ranna's hand rest approvingly on his shoulder. But then she pulled on him forcefully.

"Something – DOWN!"

Fire engulfed them, themselves the very center of the explosion. And the entire wall of ice, also caught in the blaze, shattered, sending shards across the field like snow, while steam viciously seethed into the air. Mikael, with Ranna's help, managed to duck much of the inferno {Falameezen deals 16 dmg to Mikael; Falameezen deals 33 dmg to Ranna}.



But as the smoke, steam, and fire dissipated, Mikael glanced up, and there on the platform, as clear as day, he saw the altar – now exposed and vulnerable to the world. To destroy it meant their salvation, but would there be time? If only Mikael knew what time was made of. Then, he could make more to spare.

"...time is made of?" Godric heard himself finish speaking but didn't know what he was talking about. As he came back to his senses, he looked down and saw Imbellum laying there, bleeding to death. Suddenly he remembered what was happening and looked towards Falameezen and the altar. "Quick, go destroy the altar! I'll help Imbellum!"He yelled to Mikael. He reached into his pack and took out the cure moderate wounds potion. He quickly helped his dying teammate to drink it, hoping it wasn't too late... Imbellum definitely didn't look well.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Sun 02 Apr 2017.

Godric, in a moment of clarity, poured a healing potion into Imbellem's agape mouth. Though unconscious, Imbellem coughed, and as the wounds on his body rapidly closed his eyes opened.



"I just had the weirdest dream," he murmured groggily to Godric, who loomed over him. "Oh. . ." he continued as he realized where he was, "I'm – We're – still dreaming, eh?"

"Yes, but at least now you're. . . you're. . ." Godric's eyes became foggy like the world around them. "Who are you?" {Godric is confused; Godric loses his combat turn next round}



"Uh oh. . ."

"Uh oh," said Ranna, seeing Mikael stagger in place. But, gathering her courage, she turned her gaze toward the altar and leapt upon the platform. "For my people!" she shouted, and she swung her sword at it.

Her blade made a loud ring as it struck the altar, like a hammer upon an anvil, and left a deep scratch on the stone {Ranna deals 1 Dmg to Altar}. However, it was not yet broken, and she prepared to give it everything she had in the coming moments.



"Not good, not good," muttered the ethereal voice of Falameezen.

Suddenly the dwarf became visible! Still wearing green robes, his silver beard hanging level with the grass, Falameezen appeared by a boulder left of the shrine.

"A dwarven woman so fierce,
Tried so very hard to pierce,
The stone I had made,
With Bagna's aid,
And thus must be sent in a hearse."

Falameezen pointed his staff and out shot a bolt of lightning. The flash of light burnt through Mikael and finally into Ranna, who fell unconscious on the platform. Smoke rose from her body in wisps {Falameezen deals 14 Dmg to Ranna; Falameezen deals 28 Dmg to Mikael}.



Falameen smiled cheerfully, as though he had just heard a funny joke.

"They say that dwarves can cook,
Stews and brews and Nook,
But I never knew,
Dwarves can cook too,
My meaning can't be mistook!"



This message was last edited by the GM at 13:22, Sun 02 Apr 2017.

"Some say that life is but dream,
That we need only to wake up from."

Falameezen pointed his staff and from the tip came a barrage of violet lights, moving like shooting stars and enclosing upon Mikael, striking him in rapid succession. Mikael felt pain and staggered, and then, to his surprise, felt no pain at all, instead feeling surprisingly light – pleasant even.

"Mikael," said a voice from not too far, but it was not the voice of any of his companions. Rather, it was a deeply familiar voice, from somewhere long ago.

Mikael turned and saw a beautiful elven woman standing on the grass, smiling kindly, her long hair radiant and blinding white in color. In fact, everywhere around her seemed blinding and bright.

"Pnelopia," he gasped. "I-"

"I know," she replied, her ethereal voice a comfort.

Mikael closed his eyes, a quiet smile resting on his lips. "I'm glad," he murmured.

Then, he fell dead, falling silently upon the grass before the shrine, laying as though he were merely asleep. {Falameezen deals 23 Dmg to Mikael; Mikael has died}

Only Imbellem, however, witnessed this, and the shocking sight kept him fixed in place. Whether Godric saw or not was difficult to say, for, being possessed by confusion, he turned and ran maniacally away from the shrine {Godric moves to (U,1). Godric is confused and loses his combat round next turn}.



"But whether it be dream or truth, to do well is what matters. If it be truth, for truth's sake. If not, then to gain friends for the time when we awaken. . ." said Falameezen, who then finished with, "Vanilla ice cream is my favorite!"

Assuming my confusion is done, I attempt to retreat

"Frozen in place?" asked Falameezen, who then added, "Or simply frozen?"

His silvery beard bouncing buoyantly, Falameezen waved his staff, and a torrent of snow and ice bellowed down from the foggy sky. The fierce but isolated storm encompassed Imbellem, as though he had been cast into his own personal winter.

"Let it gooo. Let it go. Can't hold it back anymore. . ." sang Falameezen as Imbellem, feeling the sudden drop in temperate, began to shiver.

In addition to the cold, so too were there enormous shards of hail, which struck at Imbellem viciously. And, finally, an especially large piece struck his head, and he collapsed into a heap upon the ground. There Imbellem shivered in his unconsciousness, until he became eerily still {Falameezen deals 18 Dmg to Imbellem}.

"Imbellem. . no. . I. . mind, not good. ." grumbled Godric as he looked on."

It was unclear whether Godric understood what was going on or not, but he babbled incoherently all the while. And while he did so, the subtle anger that had pervaded his mind faded, and was replaced by an oppressive sense of fatigue {Godric's rage has ended; Godric is now fatigued}.

quote:

08:06, Today: DM Ryan rolled 33 using 1d100.  Godric, Confusion Effect.

"So tired. . " Godric yawned. "And. . I. . Did that use diesel? . ."

"I'm not sure," replied Falameezen, who had now walked closer.

Falameezen walked over to the edge of the black pit and gazed down it, like a child looking curiously over the edge of a cliff. Then, he turned his gaze over to Godric.

"Sure is spooky down there. You'll have to tell me how it is when I toss you all down."

"Down. . " murmured Godric, struggling through the fogginess in his mind. "My friends. . I. . horses. . Where? Must. . go. ."

Falameezen shook his head. "That would be rude. Please. . stay."

He pointed his staff at Godric and out shot yet another barrage of violet lights, which enclosed upon the barbarian {Falameezen deals 16 Dmg to Godric}. The pain mixed with the madness and stirred Godric's mind into a frenzy.



"Enemy! . Enough talk! . "

Godric - injured, exhausted, and angry - staggered toward Falameezen, crudely pointing his lance at him, though in his exhaustion he could not keep the tip steady {Godric moves to N3}.

Falameezen pointed his staff at him once again, but this time nothing came out!

"Oops," chuckled Falameezen. "Looks like I'm all out of the nasty spells. Guess I'll have to do this the old way! Yip yip, I feel like a kid again!"

Falameezen cast an unknown spell upon himself, then, swinging his staff playfully like a kid, mozied over to Godric, who still staggered toward him. It was there standing before the pit, not ten feet from each other, that the fog in Godric mind suddenly vanished, and his senses flooded back in. The barbarian stood up straight. For the first time with a clear mind, he gazed over the battlefield. Mikael was dead. Imbellem nearly so. And Ranna too. Then, there were his own injuries to consider. He alone stood before the black pit facing Falameezen. Although his face gave away none of its sternness, a single tear escaped the corner of his eye over the fate of his companions.

The situation had become dire and uncertain. Could he win on his own? Or should he flee and save his life, forgoing a needless death?

In the end, the choice all came down to him.

Godric looks at his fallen companions, realizing he may be their only chance for survival. He takes out his last cure moderate wounds potion and drinks it as he walks backward. His armor weighs him down heavily as he slowly moves away; it feels as though it's made of lead. If he can just survive a little longer in battle, he could be the hero of his surviving party members and the whole dwarven village.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Sun 07 May 2017.

Godric took the last Cure Moderate Wounds potion from his pouch and hurriedly gulped it down, putting his years of downing liquor and ale to practical use. He felt a wave of relief as many of his wounds closed {Cure Moderate Wounds Potion heals 19 HP}.

Falameezen, not seeming to mind, walked closer.

"Sticks and stones may break thy bones,
But sticks with thorns might kill you."

Falameezen chuckled at his little poem, and, as he did so, his staff suddenly grew four-inch long spikes along its entire length, as though he were holding the branch of an extremely savage tree {Falameezen casts unknown spell}. Holding his new and slightly more intimidating weapon, he neared Godric, who in turn could sense this final and desperate battle would get even more desperate before it was all over.



This message was last edited by the GM at 19:38, Sun 30 Apr 2017.

"There once was a barbarian knight,
Who thought he could put up a fight,
But little he knew,
Just what I could do-"

Falameezen swung his staff at Godric, but it bounced off his armor.

"Then again, maybe he's right."

{Falameezen moves to Q3; Falameezen misses Godric}

Realizing this may be his last stand, Godric thrusts his weapon at Falameezen as hard as he can. Even though he is exhausted from all the fighting, he is able to put some strength into it. After his attacks he steps back, keeping some distance from his enemy's new and improved staff(Godric does a full attack at Falameezen, then 5 foot step to s4 )

Godric thrust out with his lance and struck Falameezen, piercing through the front of his green robes. Falameezen recoiled. Though the dwarf didn't seem to feel pain, his image seemed to slightly wane in clarity, as though some fraction of his existence had left him {Godric deals 5 Dmg to Falameezen}.

Godric thrust out a second time but missed. Then, he readied his stance for whatever might come.

quote:

09:54, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 5 using 1d8+4.  Lance Atk 1 Dmg.
09:53, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 8 using 1d20+5.  Lance Atk 2 @ Falameezen (Fatigue pen. included).
09:52, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 21 using 1d20+10.  Lance Atk 1 @ Falameezen (Fatigue pen. included).

This message was last edited by the GM at 14:00, Sun 07 May 2017.

Godric felt a little reassurance after seeing his attack have an effect, abiet minor. He again raised his lance and thrust it at him as hard as he could. He was weak enough that he had to use his body weight to get enough force behind it. He gathered himself again, and thrust his lance a second time. {Godric makes 2 attacks with -2 power attack, and then steps backward to s4}

The trees were moving. As though filled with curiosity, they craned their necks and leaned over the field, their highest branches encircling and hiding the visible sky. Soon all that remained was a singular hole above, about the same size as the black pit, now a pupil gazing toward the heavens. Godric breathed deeply. He felt sweat on his palms as he grasped his lance. Was it even real sweat? Wasn't this all just some dream?

Planting his back foot in the ground, he struck out twice against Falameezen, the green-robed devil, and twice met his target. On each hit, Falameezen seemed to briefly become distorted, as though whatever was holding him together had weakened, and he grimaced. Godric smiled. Though it didn't feel like he was striking flesh, he could tell they were strong hits {Godric deals 30 Dmg to Falameezen}. He could feel it. He could feel it in the earth, in the air, rippling throughout the dream realm. And the trees knew it too. The trees were watching, waiting, intensely curious to see which soul would join them forever.

quote:

09:18, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 17 using 1d8+9.  Lance Atk 2 Dmg. (PA 2).
09:18, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 13 using 1d8+9.  Lance Atk 1 Dmg. (PA 2).
09:10, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Lance Atk 2 @ Falameezen (Fatigue pen. included; PA 2).
09:10, Today: DM Ryan, on behalf of Godric Lothar, rolled 21 using 1d20+8.  Lance Atk 1 @ Falameezen (Fatigue pen. included; PA 2).

Falameezen's image regained clarity, an expression of discomfort on his face.

"Existence is a fickle thing,
We try to stay, but it tries to bring,
An end, to our short duration,
Ignoring any plea, oblation,
Or argument against its will,
Insisting we persist until,
A mere whimsy, and thus hence,
It decides our impermanence."

Falameezen took a step back, waved his staff, and a barrage of colors briefly washed over him. His wounds were not healed, and his physical appearance was unchanged. Certainly Falameezen had just cast a spell, but what did that spell accomplish? Godric didn't know, and it was the not-knowing that worried him the most as he tightened his grip on his lance and prepared for the next round of battle.

Godric noticed this may be a chance to heal himself, as he has some space. He takes out a cure light wounds potion and drinks it. He the steps towards his attacker to close the distance {I use my move action to maintain 10 feet from Falameezen}

He had a moment. Using this chance, Godric hastily pulled out another potion and drank it {Godric is healed 4 HP}; and then advanced upon Falameezen, trying to keep him at the ideal distance.

Falameezen, however, was as cheerful as ever.

"I wonder what I'll do,
After we're all through.
I think when I'm done,
With all this fun,
I'll make myself a stew!"

The dwarf then pointed his staff at Godric! Casting his magic in a defensive way {Concentration ~ Success}, a colorful bolt, much like the colors that swept over him a mere second ago, fired from the tip at Godric. Godric felt the bolt enter his chest, send tingling sensations throughout his body, and then finally his mind, which became clouded and ensnared him in a daze.



Falameezen chuckled as Godric then stood there, drooling a little while staring into the mist. The dwarf walked up to him.

"Batter up!"

Falameezen swung twice, hitting the first blow and missing the second {Falameezen deals 13 Dmg to Godric; Falameezen misses Godric}; and again, while Godric continued in this state, Falameezen swung twice, hitting the first blow and missing the second {Falameezen deals 18 Dmg to Godric; Falameezen misses Godric}.

Only after the second assault did Godric snap awake from his daze, welcomed by a great deal of pain.

The trees watched closely.



This message was last edited by the GM at 14:19, Sun 21 May 2017.

"My, my this is easy,
I even feel a bit sleezy!
Just one more swack,
And that'll be that...”

Falameezen swung twice with his staff and missed {Falameezen misses Godric}.

“Ugh, and now I feel queasy...”
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 15:55, Sun 28 May 2017.

Seeing the dire nature of the situation Godric considered retreating. He lots his lance up in defence while moving away from Falameezen {Godric uses a full withdraw action to x8}

"Why do you run?
Let's have some fun!
I have games,
Music,
Even some rum!
So sit and stay,
Let's have a drink!
I'll have a glass,
While in the pit, you sink."

Falameezen pointed his staff at Godric and out shot another bolt of colorful light. It struck Godric's back as he fled, viciously coursing through his body, and he was suddenly confronted with the same dreamy sensation he had felt before. The feeling rose into his mind like a fog in the morning sun.

"No! I must not give in!" rasped Godric through gritted teeth. "I. . must. . not. . ."

It felt like fighting a cloud, where every mental punch met only air, and the air enveloped around him nonetheless, uncaring, dispassionate. And, after several bitterly-fought seconds, he plunged into a daze.



Falameezen giggled as he calmly walked to Godric and stood in front of him, gazing up into the barbarian's glossy, white eyes. Although Godric's mind had gone, some side of him buried in his unconscious, his soul perhaps, watched. Falameezen smiled.

"Don't worry," he said, his tone so cheerful and easy that Godric almost could've been convinced he spoke the truth – almost. "I'm not going to kill you," Falameezen continued reassuringly. "Oh no, no, no, nope!"

Falameezen lifted his arms in the air, gesturing toward the sky; the branches of the trees squirmed and danced, as if in celebration or applause.

"This is Bagna's realm afterall," said Falameezen, who then rested a comforting hand on Godric's shoulder, as a close friend would, and spoke in a whisper. "And the great Lord Bagna tells me. . . he has plans for you. . ."

Falameezen suddenly struck Godric in the head with his staff, and Godric fell unconscious.

The next minute passed by strangely for Godric, his eyes occasionally opening for no longer than a blink, then succumbing back to unconsciousness, capturing the world in frames. The first frame was that of Falameezen, dragging him across the grass. The second was that of him being propped against the side of the black, bottomless pit. And the third (and last) was that of Falameezen.

"Good luck," said the dwarf, who then pushed Godric's chest with the end of his staff and sent him straight over the pit's edge.

Headfirst, Godric fell. And fell. And fell. Until it seemed like he was no longer falling through space but sinking into the depths of the ocean, gently floating downward. In every direction was a black oblivion, an emptiness of infinite possibilities. Somehow awake, and yet not, Godric gazed upward;- and from the depths of an even deeper abyss rose a creature of colossal size, rising past Godric, Godric himself no larger than the creature's eye. Within a few seconds, there loomed a being over him with the magnitude of a mountain, a being whose body seemed ambiguous and shadow-like, though Godric could distinguish four, curling horns that sprung from the being's head, and six, glowing golden eyes gazing down at him.

"Welcome," said Bagna, his voice sending a tremor through existence. "You belong to me now."

quote:

Imbellem: Deceased.
Mikael Vaeltaja: Deceased.
Ranna: Alive
Godric Lothar: Status Changed from Player to NPC.

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Sun 11 June 2017.