The building before you was doubtless a beautiful temple in its day: two stories in height, crafted from well-fitted planks of dark hardwoods brought from the mainland.  The windows were spacious and cheerful, closed against the wind with brightly-painted shutters; a gate of well-crafted wrought iron once stood before the large front door, and a trellis for well-tended ivy once leaned against the right half of the front face of the temple.

Today, after 60 years of neglect, the temple is a wreck. The expensive wood is old and pitted, cracked and decayed. The windows are still spacious, but most of the shutters are gone; the few that remain bang open and closed in the wind, or hang crookedly from a single hinge. The wrought iron gate is as intricate as ever, but rusted over, rusted clear through in places.  The ivy once planted as decoration now covers the entire right side of the front wall, and continues around the whole right side of the temple.

It's a spectacle of gloom and disrepair.  There are, however, no lights within, no sign of habitation, and the walls may be sound enough to keep out the worst of the weather.

"at least it'll keep tha rain off." The dwarf says.  He mutters in dwarven as they cross through the gate.  "Is thare anytin ta eat?"

In reply to Kerkrin (msg # 2):

Getting chilled from the weather, and lack of appropriate clothing, Sal still takes a moment to wonder about this temple.
Lost in a gaze at the spectacle, and imaging it as it was in it's glory.  The windows & shutters painted and hung correctly, plants well manicured, worshippers coming and going, congregating inside, and outside.
"Imagine the work and craftsmanship that went into this temple, such a shame the years have decayed it."

No real place to put the daggers, he has them in each hand.
"Should one of us inspect the interior, to make sure their isn't an angry God inside?"

Deniv comes upon the temple, clearly impressed despite the age and wear.  This place must have been really beautiful.  He nods his head at the mention of food.  Yes.  Food, drinking water, and a fire.  We're all starting to suffer from being wet and cold.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 4):

Kirkrin, yes food is next on the agenda, hopefully our new found friend  Keestake  can accommodate on that too grinning at Keestake.

Lamm takes a look at the outside of the Temple:
This sure looked like a glorious place in it's heyday, one day I am sure it will be rebuilt better then before.

Turning to keestake, So, this goddess Keestake, is she about normally or only when angered.   Um and what did the Orcs and Goblins do to anger her?  Destroy stuff, disrupt or take things?

shrugs about who will go in to check out the Temple Kreestake, It is safe to go in? Why don't you lead us in so the goddess knows we are friends since we come in with you  and smiles at Keestake indicating to lead the group in.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 5):

Anxious to get out of the weather, and inside somewhere somewhat safe.
Slaps Kreestake on the shoulder, and nudging him inward to lead on into the Temple.

"Great idea Lam, here lead the way Kreestake. Since the Goddess knows you are a friend, you can let her know we aren't here to loot like the Goblins & Orcs.  You are it's friend, right?"


Sal isn't very religious, but maybe there is a chance one of us has any knowledge of who this temple is dedicated to.  Possibly even if we could recognise a symbol which denotes good or evil.  Meaning if we were to see a cross, one could assume it is a good church.     

Tath had been quietly following along pondering something as he walked. Helping carry equipment or helping with Rebeccah. As the stopped outside the large old building he looked around at the surrounding terrain, watching for any movement.

The old man leads the group clear up to the gate at the entrance, pulls it open a little (it makes a squeak, alarming but really not too loud) and steps through the still working doors of heavy oak into the temple itself.

Once they have entered, they find that the main hall where they stand is thoroughly shielded against the wind, for it has no windows, and the front doors are sound. After a few minutes in shelter, most of the shivering stops, though it is still cool inside.  Not enough light filters in once the doors are closed to get a look inside the temple, though there is a view of flaking paintings of a goddess and other symbols on the wall before the door closes.  Keestake moves around with familiarity, though, and leads the group through another set of doors into a darkened chamber.

The floor here is tiled and covered with debris.  The sounds of voices carry, giving the impression this is a large room.  Most of the debris, when inspected, appears to be old furniture that has been broken.

"The orcs came to loot the temple, but you have not.  The goddess knows this."  He roots around in the dark and procures some bits of dried meat, which he is happy to share with the group.  He kicks at some of the debris.  "Damn orcs would have destroyed this place completely if she hadn't ran them off."

Rebeccah begins to stir and regains consciousness as she warms.

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 8):

Looking around, becoming familiar with the inside of the temple.  Adjusting the newly acquired daggers & belt on his waist.
_{"Vaguely reminds me of the barn."}  He mumbles under his breath.
"Keestake, what did you sat this is the goddess of, or her name?"

Kerkin's dwarven eyes adjust easily to the darkness, and he doesn't even stub a toe as he walks.  Kerkin eats with gratitude, even dried meat is welcomed on an empty stomach.

Seeing Rebeccah stir, Deniv collects some of the meat and moves to the young woman's side.  Don't move, he says.  He gently helps her to raise her head slightly, placing an unclaimed cloak underneath for support.  We have a bit of food.  Do you think you can eat?

Rebeccah opens her eyes to darkness.  "What?  Where am I?"  She tries to sit up suddenly, but the piercing pain in her shoulder makes her hiss in pain and lie back down.  Daniv's familiar voice encourages her to sit up more carefully.  She draws her legs up under her and takes the food from him.  "Thanks.  Dare I ask what this is?"

In reply to Rebeccah (msg # 12):

Taking some of the food and patting Keestake on the shoulder in gratitude, Thank you Keestake.  Lam, set down against a wall and quietly eats as he watches Rebeccah stir - Rebeccah, glad to see you are awake and among the living.  chuckles softly, I made sure we brought all the stuff we could that was salvageable from the battle here plus Lam gets up and places next to Rebeccah I made sure to take for you, 2 daggers, a spear and short bow and quiver w/12 arrows for you if you deem you could use them.

Points in Keestakes direction, The older gentleman we rescued, Keestake is his name brought us to this safe place, the old goddess's Temple.  We should be safe for a little while.


Once done, Lam asks Keestake, is it safe or do you have a safe place to start a small fire to maybe dry some of our cloths out and take a bit of the chill off of everyone?

"Thank you," she says as she takes the items and sets them next to her.  "I think I'll try with the bow.  It worked really well against me.  Seriously, I thought I was done for.  Do we still have those books that were in the chest?  There could be some useful information in them."

In reply to Rebeccah (msg # 14):

"Welcome back to the world of the living, Rebeccah."
Said jovially, as he makes round through the rom.

"I want to make sure this room is secured."
Checks the walls/windows/doors.  (If there are any.)

"Should we barricade the front entry gate...and the front door?"

All I know is dried meat, he says before taking a bite.  Right now, I'm hungry enough not to care all that much.
He turns to Keestake. Is there something to gather rainwater in for drinking?

Keestake begins to gather up some wood to prepare a fire.  "No.  Orcs won't come back.  Too scared.  She'll make sure."

With the fire lit, the room becomes visible.  (This room is windowless)

This chamber is very large, and two stories
in height. There is broken furniture all
over the tiled floors: it looks like the remains
of chairs, tables, and perhaps low
couches. Most of the wood looks aged, but
you can see that the breaks are all fresh.
Everything has been smashed recently.

On the east wall, in the middle, is a set
of double doors, closed. On the south wall
is the set of double doors by which you entered
the chamber. On the north wall, at
the east corner, is a very small and inconspicuous
door. All the doors in the chamber
are still hanging on their hinges.

The west wall is actually a flight of three
shallow steps leading up to a line of pillars.
Between the pillars, you can see that cloths
or tapestries, now ratty and sagging, have
been hung, blocking off your view of the
chamber beyond.

The walls of the hall of the goddess were
once plastered smooth and painted with
frescoes of the goddess in all her aspects.
Now the paint is curling, the plaster is broken
and peeling, and there are large cracks
in the plaster—probably from the foundation
of the temple settling over the years.
Additionally, someone has taken a club to
the walls here and there, evidenced by
deep gouges and tears in the plaster, and
places on the wall have been smeared with
filth.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:42, Wed 22 Nov 2017.

Jory says a prayer to the Goddess: "Goddess of the Heavens, we beseech Thee, Have Mercy upon us, poor people who've been forced into slavery. Help us to regain our strength and to combat all the oppressors of the world. Have Mercy, Goddess, and I will make Thy Name great before all the peoples of the world"



Jory approaches the set of double doors and listens for sounds. If there's no sound, he tries to open the doors.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 18):

Lam quietly says amen after Jory finishes his prayer then Helps Keestake with the fire, stating as he looks about A shame the Orcs did all this destruction, such foolish useless actions and sighs, then while watching the fire get started he asks Keestake what is beyond those other double doors and that far door and I am guessing you live in that area beyond the pillars indicating toward the cloths or tapestries covering the one area.

He grimaces to himself more then anyone in particular when Jory goes for the other set of double doors and tries to open them fearing what keestake will say or do or even if the goddess is watching what she would do.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 19):

Sal didn't get this far in life by taking high stake risks.  The temple still makes him a little nervous.  When Jory is about to open the doors, Sal is positioned near the exit, for an expeditious retreat.  _{"Better chances with Goblins or Orcs, than an unknown powerful God."}  He quietly says to himself.

It's not particularly tasty, but it will keep you alive,Deniv says to Rebeccah as he eats his own piece of dried meat.  Don't try to eat until you have a full belly.  Too much food after eating so little for so long will only make you feel sick.  Besides I don't think there is that much.
He is unsure if the meat is goblin or orc, but it does not taste as bad as he thought it would.  He looks up as New Jory says a prayer and Lam moves to open the doors.  Pulling himself to his feet, he grabs the shortbow.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 21):

Watching Daniv, ready his bow. "Good idea."
Sal now has a dagger in each hand, ready for something to happen.

(I just noticed that the adventure text and the map don't match.)

To the North are the short steps leading up to a curtained area.

To the West are the double doors through which the group came in.

To the South is a door in the West corner. (leading South)

To the East is a door in the South corner.  (Leading East)


Jory hears nothing and opens the door to the East.  This looks like a hallway (N-S), but he can't see far in the darkness.  There is another door immediately to his right (South.)  The floor is still neatly tiled, but covered in old leaves and other debris.  The wall still holds most of its plastering.

Keestake doesn't seem to mind Jory's poking around.  In answer to Lam, he shrugs. "Mostly storerooms, offices, and living quarters."  He gets serious when asked about the space behind the curtains.  "The goddess lives there.  Those foul orcs damaged even her."

Is there anything we can use as dry clothing in any of the living quarters?  Or is all too far gone?  Deniv is definitely feeling cold from his wet rags and the smelly cloak, despite the fire.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:37, Sun 26 Nov 2017.

The old man shrugs again.  "Maybe.  Haven't been looking for any."

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 25):

Waiting for something to pop out, and nothing does, Sal relaxes his bow.
"Lam, I have an idea."
Moving to Lam, and whispering quietly in his ear.

Putting his hands up in a questioning manner, he walked over to see how Rebecca is doing.
"You are in good hands with Daniv, rest and recover your strength, I feel we will need you up and moving soon."

Jory is very much in need of dry clothes, as he's only wearing wet clothes and a wet studded leather armor, which used to be the pirate's.
He says softly: "I'm going to look for dry clothes and other useful things."
He walks into the N-S corridor and tries the door directly to the south.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 27):


Keestake, as you say we can, Thank you to allow us to explore the area beyond the door Jory went in to look for dry cloths and possibly some useful stuff to aid us all.  We will not destroy or do any harm as we go and will make sure what we find is acceptable from you.

Smiles as Sal walks up shaking his head in agreement.

Looks to Edward and Rebeccah.  Stay Edward and try to help Rebeccah warm up and get ready  while Jory Sal, Kirkrin and I explore to see if we can find dry cloths and useful items down that way - pointing the way Jory went.  Tath and Daniv, come stand in the doorway area and keep watch on our progress, I would hope to not get to separated but also stay in pairs. Whispers to Tath and Daniv as they set up by the door _{Keep an eye on the old man plus whatever may be behind the makeshift cover upon those stairs.  Do not go in there but yell for help if need be, we still do not know if the old man is 100% with us}.

then moves with Sal and Kirkrin calling, Jory wait for us moving to meet up with Jory.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 28):

Daggers in hand.
"I have an erie feeling about this place.  Lets clear it out, I'll follow you."

Tath listened quietly to Lam's plan then nodded "Very well." Moving over near the door he squatted with his back to the wall in a position where he could keep an eye on the room and a portion of the hallway.

I'll do the best I can, Deniv says as he gets up.  Before you go anywhere, here.
He moves to one of the piles of smashed furniture.  Taking up a couple of legs, he cuts and wraps some of the upholstery around each and ties it tightly in place.  Torches.  You might need them.

Kerkrin shrugs, and follows along.

In reply to Kerkrin (msg # 32):

Taking the makshift torches, thank you Daniv, make sure you have some for yourself.

Be safe as I will do so to.

(Just to be clear, the curtains aren't 'makeshift.'  Old and tattered they are, but they appear to be part of the original construction.)

The South door is opened to reveal another hallway, though this one runs East-West.  There is another door immediately to the South and East.  The torches increase visibility, allowing two more doors to be seen.  The one on the North side likely leads back into the large chamber with the rest of the group.  The South door leads to the unknown.

Jory nods to the others who're following with torches, but he doesn't need one himself.
He studies the door to the South and looks for traps, listens for sounds and looks at the ceiling, for danger of collapse.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 35):

Lam slows down as he follows Jory, holding a torch with his battle Axe at the ready.

Rebeccah was quite fine not exploring the back halls of the temple since she probably wouldn't survive another violent encounter if there was anything back there.  She was curious about what was behind the curtain, though.  First, she found some wood to prop up her cloak near the fire to dry.  Her dress was still wet and stuck to her skin, but that was going to have to stay on for now.  The tear and the blood bothered her, but it was a problem for another time.

She approached the middle of the curtains and took a peak inside.  She opened them up enough to let a little light through.

No traps noted.  Construction appears solid.  (assuming the near South door)

Door checked, they open it and peer inside.

This is a large room with heavy wooden tables
running around most of the walls. There
is a large, recessed fireplace on the east wall.
It's as large as a small room, certainly enough
to mount a cross-bar and roast a bull within
while simultaneously cooking other dishes.
The fireplace seems to be in good shape The
window's shutters are still closed, and ivy
creeps in through holes in them.

The tables are all undamaged, and the orcs,
other than taking a few preliminary axe swings
at the plaster walls, do not seem to have done
much damage here.



Rebeccah peers behind the curtains.

This chamber is raised about a foot and a
half above the floor of the hall of the goddess.
You had to push your way through
the tattered curtains to enter. You could
tell, as you did so, that these ratty cloths
were once fine velvet, purple embroidered
upon in gold, but they've aged now into a
uniform, revolting brown and you cannot
tell now what the embroidery represented.
There are only two items in the chamber.
One is a statue of the goddess. She is sitting
on a throne, looking down into the
hall of the goddess; her expression is
thoughtful, with the faintest trace of a
smile on her lips.
The sculptor must have been a tremendous
talent, for the statue is posed in a very
natural manner, head slightly bowed, left
hand extended in a gesture of blessing.
right hand gripping the arm of the throne.
But it, too, is a ruin now. The nose has
been broken off, the left hand likewise, a
great crack runs across the torso, and the
face and torso are smeared with filth.
The other object in the room is a low table,
obviously an altar, set down before the
statue of the goddess. Since it bears no
trace of bloodstains, new or old, it must
have been an altar for offerings instead of
sacrifices.
Both statue and altar are sculpted out of
fine marble. The walls of this chamber are
white and unadorned.

With the bow in hand, Deniv grabs his twelve arrows and moves up behind Rebeccah.  _{I don't think this is a good idea,} he whispers to the girl as he follows her inside.  _{Sleeping gods and goddesses should be left to sleep.}
At the sight of the statue and the altar, he gives a soft gasp.  Slowly, he moves forward to Rebeccah's side.  _{If that is the Goddess, and she comes alive to atttack those who desecrate her temple, she appears to have been injured.  Either that, or vandals have been here.}
This message was last edited by the player at 03:07, Fri 01 Dec 2017.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 39):

Followng Joras, Lam moves into the rooms doorway, looks about then motions Kirkrin and Sal to spread out (pointing left for Sal and right for Kirkrin) whispers as they pass _{Careful, spread out and slowly search the room leaving that fireplace for last.  I will keep the doorway secure for our escape route then follow in once the room looks secured and you have signaled to do so.}

Lam will stay at he door watching Joras, Sal and Krikrin as they move toward the far end by the fireplace.  He will keep an eye out in the room they just came from then look into the large room, left side, right side and at the ceiling and repeat his lookout until the signal all clear is given then move in himself (unless something happens)

OOC - is there any other doors in here?

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 40):

Sal nods in recognition to Lam.
Daggers in each hand, he moves left.


Why am I picturing  Krampus popping out of the fireplace?

Jory moves into the room, which seems to be a kitchen, as well and turns right as soon as he's inside.
He searches for anything edible left on or under the tables. And finally he looks for anything valuable in the fireplace.

The dwarf goes right, working around to the fireplace.

"I would guess the orcs did this," she replies to Daniv.  "What a pity.  She is beautiful.  If I had something to offer for allowing us to stay here, I would.  We can at least find some rags and clean off some of the filth.  It's the least we can do, right?"

Well, the closest thing I have is this dirty cloak.  Or my pants.  He shakes his head at that thought as he takes off the cloak to hand to the girl.

There are no other doors in the room.  Anything that was edible in here has long since been reduced to dust.  This kitchen hasn't seen use in decades.  Except for possibly rats.  There are rat trails and droppings about.

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 46):

Seeing nothing inspiring or no opportunities for getting food/supplies for the group Lam indicates let's search for secret doors if none we move out and continue exploring other rooms.

Guys, I do not see anything of use in hear, This place has lain empty for a long time.  Maybe check for any secret doors along the walls or near the fire place then if nothing, we move on to the next room.

Lam will look back the way they came to make sure no one has moved up on them then help search for secret doors, panels ect in the room.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 47):

With the secret door comment, Sal starts feeling around on the walls.  Moving objects, looking behind pictures.  (If there are any left on the walls)
"Not seeing much in the way of secret door department!."



57...I just wanted to roll dice.
07:02, Today: Sal Warth rolled 57 using 1d100.  secrets.

After the kitchen has been inspected, Jory returns to the East-West hallway and moves silently up to the South door (see quote above). He checks the door for traps and listens for sounds. If there are no sounds and no traps, he carefully opens the door, trying not to make more than soft sounds.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 49):

If nothing is found in the large fireplace room, Lam will again help direct Krikrin and Sal to follow him and Jory as Jory goes to the next door along the way indicating to be quiet as Jory checks the door out.

"Here, maybe these will be better."  Melisana holds out some rags she scrounged up.  "Sorry, I overheard your conversation after I saw you two go through the drapes.  I didn't mean to startle anyone."

The trio use the rags brought in by Melisana and clean up the statue of the goddess as well as they are able.  Seeing their good work gives them all a warm feeling of accomplishment.

A further search of the kitchen reveals nothing new.  They head down the hall to the next door.  Inside, they find what used to be the offices of the temple.  The furniture has been smashed to pieces and spread across the room.  Much of the paneling has been damaged and torn away from the wall.  It looks to have been fairly recent.

At the end of the hall are stairs going up.

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 52):

Looking at the destruction in this room, Lam sighs, I guess the Orcs got in here too points to the stairs, Jory, would you like to lead the way.  We will follow, Sal and Kirkrin then I. Looks back, at some point we probably should let the others, atleast Tath where we are going next. 

Pauses, Jory check out the stairs but do not go to far until we return, I will be right back, Sal stick with Jory, Krikrin with me please. 

OOC - I forget if there was another in our group exploring - if so, Lam asks that person to also stick with Jory and Sal.

As the warm feeling washes over him, Deniv gasps and takes a wary step back.  You are aware of us, aren't you.  More of a statement than a question, it is directed at the statue.  He takes a step forward.  You really are more than just a statue.
He moves a bit closer, looking closely to see if he can see any sign of yealing on the stump of the severed wrist.

Jory looks around carefully to see if anyone is hidden among the broken furniture in the room.
If he finds no hidden people, he moves through the wreckage in the room to the bottom of the stairs at the end of the hall.
He looks for traps on each step of the stairs, to see if it's safe, and while doing this, he slowly ascends.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 55):

Following the lead of Jory, his partner designated by Lam.
"See anything interesting in there Jory?"

"The statue is just that.  I think.  But she is out there.  She must be."  Rebeccah says a quick prayer thanking the goddess for sanctuary.  "I'm going back to the fire.  Maybe go through the stuff from the ship and see if there is anything useful."

Deniv disagrees with Rebeccah.  There is something about the statue.  It seems to him that much of the filth on the statue had been where blood would have been surrounding the jagged crack, the missing nose, the stump of the left arm.  He cannot help but feel reverent.

There is nothing further to be found in this office.  The stairs appear to be safe, so the group of explorers move up to the second floor.  This floor is built much like the lower.  The hall here is much wider, though.  There are rooms on the South side of the hall in roughly the same location as the lower.  The closest door is only a few feet away from the stairs.

What does Jory see in this wide hall upstairs, with his infra vision?
Can he see tracks here of orcs or other creatures?

Jory moves quietly to the first door at the South Side and looks at it very attentively for traps or signs of entry (fingerprints, notches, etc.)

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 60):

After passing the info to the other keeping an eye on them that they are going up stairs, Lam motions for Kirkrin to follow him back to the stairs and quietly climbs them to be with Sal awaiting Jory as he checks out the door.  Whispers I'll keep an eye down the hallway, Sal and kirkrin watch Jory's back as he enters the room

Let's leave the "goddess" in peace.  I'm feeling cold again and could use some time before the fire to dry off.
He leads the way back to the main room and warmth, his mind sifting through memories of conversation he had overheard in his father's tavern.  Is there some information he may have gleaned that could give him some clue about statues that move?

Jory can only see the occasional rat with his infravision.  The orcs have been gone too long to have left any residual heat.  When the torches are brought closer, it's easy to see a few humanoids have been moving around up here.  They likely belong to the orcs that recently ravaged this temple.

Nothing special stands out about this door.  Inside the room, it appears to have once been a living quarters for the priests.  What was once nicely decorated is now trashed like the other rooms.  Furniture has been smashed and strewn about the place.

Rebeccah goes back to the campfire and looks for the chest with the books.  She grabs her warm and dry cloak and wraps it around her body.  Then she carefully shimmies out of her wet dress and props it up near the fire to dry completely.  She sits next to the books and begins to leaf through them to see if there is anything useful.

In reply to Rebeccah (msg # 64):

Leaning up against a wall, biting his fingernail off.
"Looks like there is nothing left in here.  I still dont have a good feeling about this place."
Out of respect, Sal doesn't spit his nail on the floor, but puts it in a flap of leather, or somewhere on himself.

Seeing the books, Deniv moves over to sit by her.  Want some help?  My dad was never a fan of books and scrolls.  Didn't have much time for them.  He seems a bit sad.  I have a small journal in which I would write recipes and brews.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 66):

Sighing, Yet again a trashed room, hhmm, what about the closet here in the hallway, let's check that then move down to the end of the hallway.

Lam will indicate the closet and stand back for Jory to check it out.

Lam moves and suggests things nervously but confidently trying to keep a sense of group cooperation and purpose not so much overall leadership with his suggested orders/requests as they move about but he knows that some order of balance must be maintained and right now if he can supply a bit of responsibility then all the better for him and his fellow companions.

Rebeccah and Daniv break out the books.  One appears to be the captain's log, but the writing within seems to be some kind of code.  The words are in Common, but the phrases are mostly gibberish.  With the log are some navigational charts.  A spot is marked out on the North coast of Pandera Island.  The other book is particularly hard to read.  The words seem to run from the eyes.  If one was to concentrate on a section, the words can almost be read.  It feels like if given time, this book could be understood.

The next door down the hall opens up to a similar room.  The decor and the destruction are pretty much the same.  A quick search turns up a little prayer book that survived the sacking.

Jory enters the living quarters and moves around through the wreckage, lifting broken pieces of furniture to look under them, as he's looking for dry pieces of clothin. If he doesn't find clothes in this room, he checks the next door in the hallway for traps.

Holding the hard to read book close so he can see the pages in the firelight, Deniv concentrates on a single word at a time.This book is very strange.

Rebeccah sets down the coded book to focus on the strange one.  "Yeah, it is.  It must be some kind of magic to look like it does.  I wonder what it takes to read it.  Got any ideas?"

He looks up from what he is trying to read.  I'm getting bits of as I concentrate on it.  I'm just going to keep trying one word at a time.
He then turns back to doing just that.

Tath stood quietly watching the hall the others were exploring as well as the room they were in. Nodding to Lam as he relayed the message that they were heading upstairs, he then noticed Rebeccah and Daniv discussing a book that they were trying to read. "Best be careful with such things. Some stories speak of curses being bestowed up such items."

Daniv looks up at Tath and gives a shrug.  Saying this is probably going to bite me in the arse later, but how much more can we be cursed?
This message was last edited by the player at 06:34, Sat 23 Dec 2017.

Tath has to grin and shrug, "Yea, at the moment not much."

In reply to Tath (msg # 75):

Jory, kirkrin Sal, this place looks really gone over, we may end up having to scrap together material just for torch igniters.   Lam stops back at the closet and indicates, might as well open this.  Cover me Sal I am going to try to follow Jory's techniques - Lam listens at the closet door (hear noise), checks for any traps then opens it such that he is not standing in front of it when it opens.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 76):

Sal stands back, and covers Lam.
Looking left and right, watching behind them, too.  Just before Lam opens the door, Sal takes a step back.
"Be careful, a lesson I learned when I was little.  Monsters always hide in closets!  Or under your bed."

"Good one, Daniv."  She continues to try and decipher the strange text with Davin.  "Who knows, maybe there is something here that can help us.  Besides, I'm in no shape to go off exploring with the others.  This gives me something to do."

Daniv and Rebeccah study the strange book.  Slowly they begin to understand what it is they have.  It is a spellbook.  The writing seems to be in Common, but none of it makes sense.  A word or two becomes clear as they focus on it, giving them hope that they may yet be able to comprehend it.

The upper floor looks to have been completely looted.  The four rooms on the South side of the building contain little that could be useful.  They were living quarters many decades ago.  Whatever clothing was left behind is mostly rotted away.  There are a few scraps left that could be used to make torches, but that's about it.  The hallways form an H.  The West side of the - part is wall, which is likely part of the main room.  The East side looks down into an overgrown garden.  The North end of the building has five more rooms that appear to be in much the same shape as the South rooms.  Two sheets of paper with prayers written on them survived the years and the sacking.

Jory picks up the two sheets with prayers and moves down to the main room, where the fire is.
While moving down the stairs, he again checks for recent tracks of rats or other edible animals.
He sits down near the fire (but not too close) and starts to read the prayers.
He's quite disappointed that there are no dry clothes to be found upstairs.
He hopes that the prayers will lift his mood.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 80):

Re joining the group, Lam describes all that hey found and saw. Basically the Orcs and Goblins ransacked this place fairly well.  We have a few remnants of cloth to make a few more torches with.

Seeing Daniv and Rebeccah hard at it reading a book, Lam sets down by them, anything good guys?  Squinting over their shoulders, Say, what is this book?  Can I take a look when you are done?

As Lam waits his turn he stands and sighs,  We need to make plans for the night here, watches and then where to go next?
This message was last edited by the player at 01:34, Mon 25 Dec 2017.

Jory answers Lam: "I've found something else which is interesting: two sheets of prayers, probably prayers to the goddess of this temple. I'm reading them now.
I offer to do the first watch and I suggest that we stay here tonight."

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 82):

While the others are reviewing the prayer pages, Sal finds some wood and wraps old cloth around them.
"Never know when you'll need a torch."

Deniv turns to Rebeccah.  Mayhaps, if we had pen and ink, we could copy what we see to back of the pages of that log book.
He looks around them, then picks up the crossbow bolt shafts.  Or, we could make our own.  They won't be as good as the real thing, but it can work.

Jory notices plenty of rodent tracks and traces throughout the temple.  It's likely Keestake's main diet.  When the rest of the group returns, the old man has several on a stick over the fire.  Melisana stares at the rats with a look of horror.

Weariness sets in with the group.  Even though the sun is just starting to set, the trials of the past few days have the group exhausted.

Jory waited till everybody had lain down to sleep and then he took off his studded leather armor and his wet trousers.
He put the wet armor and trousers somewhere to dry during the night.
Clothed in just his loincloth, he kept watch for the first two hours, listening for any sounds of impending danger.
If nothing happened, he would wake Lam to take the second watch, or if Lam was absent, he would wake Sal.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 86):

Trying not to embarrass himself as he ate the rat, it was just so delicious.
"I dont remember the last time I had rat and it tasted so good."
Complimenting the cook, and just thankful to have some food in his growling stomach.
Getting almost to close to the fire, to warm his body, and dry his clothes, as he wears them, Sal drifts off to sleep.  Right before he does he says to Jory.
"Wake me when its my turn for watch."

"I'll worry about pen and ink another time.  I don't think we'll find much of that around here."  She moves over to let Lam have a look.  "Find anything else of interest?"

Rebeccah volunteers to take first watch, too.  "I got a ride and a nap here.  It's the least I can do."

In reply to Rebeccah (msg # 88):

Lam thanks Keestake for the meal, does his best to not be grossed out and like Sal Enjoys the fresh food.  Thanks Keestake, tha twas taste and smiles at him.

Lam takes his turn looking over the book, This is complicated, I have read some books on plants and also schematics about carving wood but this may take a bit of time to understand

That night Lam also takes off his padded armor and soaked cloths and places them by the fire to dry wearing just his loincloth.  Lam awakens for his watch setting his Spear and Battle Axe at the ready. He will also make sure Sal is up to help out. Once his shift is over he will wake Daniv and Kirkrin for there turn.  While on watch he will keep an eye on Keepstake, all the ways into the room plus try to read and understand that book better.

Yawning when woken Jory, that time already for my turn at watch, ok, I'll wake Sal too for two per watch, you and Rebbeccah get some sleep now, anything happen on your watch?

Daniv looks at the broken bolt shafts, thinking about what he might be able to do to make ink.  He peels the fletchings free from one of them, then breaks the shaft again.  Using one of his makeshift knives, he whittles the end of the smaller piece to a point.   looking about, he spots the fire.
Pulling a stick from the fire, he uses it to scrape some of the ashes out and uses a thin but wide piece of curved wood to collect them.  Squeezing water from his still damp pants, he stirs it into the ashes, but he is unhappy with the consistency.  Reaching back to his wound, he picks at the scab until it starts bleeding again.  Ding the best he can, he brings the piece of wood up to the wound to collect some of the blood.  One hand applies direct pressure to stop the bleeding again, while the other hand uses the longer piece of shaft to stir the blood into the ash mixture.
I think I've got it.  I think I have the ink made, he says as he gets up and steps over to where Keestake has the food prepared.  Rat, huh?  Definitely the better choice, since the only other meat sources on this island seem to be us, the orcs, or the goblins.  He sits back down by his plank of ink and begins to tear at the rat to eat it.

Jory and Rebeccah sit quietly as the others rest.

Jory has trouble to stay awake and therefore he says to Rebeccah:
"I'm going to wake Lam now. I'll take another watch at the end of the night, after I've slept. Apparently, I'm more fatigued and sleepy than I thought."

Jory then wakes Lam, explains his situation and asks Lam to wake him for the last watch of the night.
When Lam has taken over the watch, together with Rebecca, then Jory lies down to sleep.

Tath sat by the fire quietly eating his share of the rat, apparently you could stomach anything if you were hungry enough. After eating he arranged himself a spot near the fire to sleep, laying his weapons close. "Wake me when it is my turn to take watch."

After a moment he propped himself up on an elbow and looked over at Keestake, "I got a question if ya don't mind Keestake?"

I'll help cover a watch, too.  Just pick the one cor me.  He plans to use his pen and ink to copy what he can read in the spell book into the blank pages of the captain's logbook.
Finally, he dozes off close to the fire, using the nearly dry cloak as pillow and blanket.  Despite the wet, the woolen garment keeps him warm.
His dreams start off filled with images and memories that make him twitch, moan, and whimper.  But, then he settles down, calming, quieting.  He shifts position, even twitches some, but his sleep seems more peaceful until he is awakened for a watch.
Moistening his ink, he begins working at copying what he can read into the captains' logbook.

Keestake turns and looks upon Tath with wild eyes and nearly toothless grin.  "Yes, friend?  Anything!"

Returning the old mans grin, "I take it the orcs and goblins showing up was a suprise, any idea how they got here?"

In reply to Tath (msg # 96):

Awaking Daniv and Kirkrin for there turn at watch, Daniv and Kirkrin, your turn to watch, I cleared a space at the fire to dry your gear some and gathered some more wood to use, Jory and Tath would be next and here is that book, spel book you say, interesting I studied it while on watch, started to make some sense of things but go ahead and copy some of the spells if you can as it would be good to have a cop for ourselves to learn from.

Lam, makes sure the fire is still going and gathers some more wood for Daniv and Kirkrin watch then gathers his gear to allow Daniv and Kirkrin to dry there gear and finds a nice comfy spot to rest.  He will take account that everyone is still there including Keestake.

OOC - not sure if Melisana, Edward, Gunnar or Leozaren are still with the group, if so they would also take turns at watch.

Keestake grins at Tath.  "Boats!"  It is becoming more apparent that this man is not playing with a full deck.

(They will be NPC'ed if anything happens on their watch.)

Lam finds it hard to stay awake, as if some kind of enchantment is being laid upon him.  Daniv and Rebeccah hear their names being called from beyond the curtain.  A dim glow appears around the curtains.

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 98):

OOC - Cool, Just did not want to forget those characters :)

Lam will try to wake up enough to call an alarm in fear, splash cold water on himself to wake up, move about alarming the group.

Group, wake up, Daniv, Jory, Edward, Einlain, Gunnar, Leorazen, Melisina Rebbecca, Sal , Tath - WAKE UP - Something is NOT RIGHT!!

If he sees the glow beyond the curtain will warn of it and turn to Keestake asking, what is going on!!!

Daniv awakens from his sleep to the sound of his name being called.  The tolling of a bright bell is still fresh in his mind.  Looking to see the light from behind the curtain, he stands.
It's okay, he says to Lam.  Rebeccah and I performed a kindness for Keestake's goddess.  Perhaps she wants to say thanks to us.
As he gets up, he adjusts the belt and dagger, tucks the shortbow into the quiver as he hangs it diagonally across his back over the now dry cloak.  He walks forward and parts the curtain to step inside.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:18, Tue 02 Jan 2018.

Jory wakes up and stands up and puts on his trousers and his studded leather armor.
He wields his broadsword while looking at Daniv near the curtain.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 101):

Sal rolls over to see what all the commotion is.
"Glowing rats rears, what is that?"
As he see's the glowing from behind the curtain, and everyone else getting ready.
Popping up, and grabbing his weapons, one in each hand.
"I knew this place was weird, Keestake, what have you brought us to, are you inline with this thing?  Why can't we just get good night sleep in a warm safe place, what have we done to deserve this?"

As Daniv and Rebeccah move cautiously towards the goddess' chamber, the others are still trapped in sleep.  (Don't worry, you'll all get your chance.)

As they move past the drapes, they see the statue glow brighter.  The missing pieces come up off the ground to settle into their proper places.  Now she can be seen in her whole, beautiful glory.  The awe of her presence sends Daniv and Rebeccah to their knees.  She stands up and looks down on them.  "Mortals, why have you come to my temple?  What business have you with Athena?"

We...we...we, Daniv stammers a bit, we wu... wu... were pirate slaves.  The... the ship wrecked on the sh... shore during a st... storm.
He has never really been a religious sort.  Piety in a house where he was beaten almost daily had seemed of little use yo him.  Praying on high for help had always beena long wait for a ship that never came.  He starts to become a bit bolder as he speaks.
We are the survivors.  We are cold and hungry, and are just trying to survive another day with very little in supplies or strength.

Rebeccah was staring into the fire when she heard her name called.  She looked over at Daniv to see he was being roused by something and noticed that the other watch was falling fast asleep.  Glad to not be alone in this strange event, she walked with Daniv into the room with the statue.

Seeing the statue come to life with the goddess' essence left her awestruck.  She nodded as Daniv managed to find the words she couldn't.  All she could mutter was, "please help us."

A warmth radiates from the goddess, rolling through the pair in front of her and touching those still sleeping.  Wounds heal, reverting to unblemished flesh.  Hunger, thirst, and fatigue are washed away.  Everyone except Keestake awakens suddenly and enters the room with the goddess.

"You see about you the results of the raid of the Hak-kubra, the pirate orcs. They have defiled my sanctuary.

"When men came hither three generations ago, they slew the men of this island, but let my temple be - as is proper. Since then, my sanctuary has been subject to wind and storm, age and rot, but I was not offended, for that is nature's right - to beat down what men have raised.  But the acts of debasement you see about you have offended me I choose to destroy this island, and all living upon it: a proper cleansing of the stain made by the Hak-kubra.

"I see no reason for you to die for another's offense, however. So I will not cleanse this island this night, as I had planned, but will stay my hand another day, and lay waste to this place at nightfall tomorrow. If you are fled by then, I will adjudge you fit to survive, and the storm which destroys this place will do no harm to your craft.

"It is a difficult test. I see you have not chosen your adventuresome paths willingly.  So this aid will I give you: there are items of power to be found on this island.  For the time you remain here, I will allow you to use any as if you were trained in their use. Should you find an object of magical power, use it wisely; perhaps it will help you toward your goal."

Jory says: "Praise to the Goddess and a million thoughts of gratitude will be offered in my mind to Your Exalted Gracefulness.
As to the objects of power, I have already found two sheets of prayers in a room upstairs. If I should leave them here or give them to
the old Keestake, please let me know."

Jory looks again at the prayers to see if he can read them or not.

OOC:Does Jory and do those who were sleeping know the name of the goddess? And I wrote earlier that Jory read the
prayers: does the name Athena appear in them? Were the prayers in an intelligible language?

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 107):

Apprehensive until his wounds are healed.
"Sorry for doubting your Goddess.  I was skeptical of this place & Keestake.  Do you wish him to perish on this island, along with the purging, or should we take him with us?"

Thank you for your generosity & gifts.

Deniv feels the warmth healing him, and drops to a knee, his head bowed in reverance.  I have heard your name mentioned in my father's tavern by many a traveller.  Athena, the Wise One, the Warrior Goddess.  I must admit, I had my doubts, as I have of all religions and faiths.  But,
no more.
He turns to the others, then back to the goddess.  As there is so little here upon this island, may we have permission to make use of your temple to fashion ourselves a raft to make our escape?

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 109):

ooc sorry for the long reply, heading out but wanted to aid Lam 2 cents in

Feeling the radiance wash over him, Lam sighs then kneels before the Goddess Athena. I thank you oh reverent goddess for your gifts tonight. 

He then stands, looks to Daniv - true, material here if any would be useful.  Plus the book with spells in it Rebbeccah and you found can be helpful.

Inhales at the words the goddess states about items of power and magic Wow, real magic, cool.  By your help we will succeed.

Yes, as Sal has asked, What about Keestake?  Will he be allowed oo leave with us or is he part of your cleansing?

Turns to the group once all the questions have been answered.  Time to get moving, Jory, not sure about the prayers but if we can read them good and you got a good look at this place, anything we can use that we can carry (if we are allowed) we take as starters.

Rebbeccah and Daniv, the spell book, let's all take a look at it and see if any of us have the gift to read them.

I am a woodworker and now something about plants so I can help there with a raft or boat repairs.

There must be more here in this area, in the buildings and such or secret caves. We may have to fight our way about to find these magic items unless the spells can help guide us.

Maybe we will have to return to the shipwreck and try our luck on the coast for materiel to build our raft plus what resources we find.

OK, time to move out.  Keestake can tell us how many Orcs and goblins there are and where areas they may not have ransacked the island.  Any other ideas?

Rebeccah gasps as she feels the pain in her chest recede.  She pulled part of the cloak aside and saw the wound vanish.  "It's a miracle!  Goddess, allow me to serve you in thanks.  Help us escape this island.  I will see to it that your name is spread and a new temple is built in your honor."

She hadn't even noticed that the others had crept up behind them.  "The books are still by the fire.  If you want to give it a try, go ahead.  Maybe you'll have better luck than us."

Athena seems to enjoy the praise and flattery.  "Jory, the items you seek are in the manor, not here.  The scrolls may help you.  If read by those of faith, they can bestow blessings and healing.  Each works only once, so use them wisely."  (The scrolls are fairly generic and make no mention of any god or pantheon.)

"Sal, Keestake has been here a long time and his mind has diminished greatly.  He tried to maintain my temple in the early years.  The decision on whether he stays or not lies with him."

"Daniv, I have not heard my name called in many years.  Were that to become true, you would honor me greatly.  Do what you must to survive and prove yourself worthy.  I have bestowed a special blessing upon you for your work in my service.  Call upon me at your most desperate hour and I will ensure success."

"Lam, it is as I told Sal.  The decision is his and yours."

"Rebeccah, if you dedicate your prayers to me, I may yet see you worthy to carry my symbol and grow my flock."

Jory wonders quietly what manor Athena is speaking of.
He gives the scrolls to Daniv, cause Daniv has been expressing his full confidence in the goddess.
"Daniv, I think you're a man of faith, and I'm not so sure of the gods myself. So I'm giving these scrolls to you, so that you can use them once, like Her Gracefulness said. Do you know, perchance, what manor She is speaking of?"

As I said, my Lady Athena, there were travellers.  They claimed to have travelled to meany planes, many worlds.  They spoke of you, your parents, your brothers and sisters, and of other... pantheons of gods whose worshippers they had encountered.  As I said, I did not believe them.  But their tales were so compelling that I would listen whenever I could.  When she tells him of her gift, he bows his head.  I will speak of you, and your family.  Thank you for your blessing.  Truthfully, I hope I will never need use it.
He looks confused for a moment.  A manor, my Lady Athena?  We have seen little upon this island.  Your temple is the only building we have seen so far.  Where is this manor?
As the prayer scrolls are handed to him, Daniv shakes his head slightly in the negative.  Until now, I have never been a person of faith.  Even now, while I believe, I can not say I am truly one to spend my life in supplication.

Tath was awed by the magic that the goddess calling herself Athena had displayed. He felt far better than he had in several days and was more than ready to do as she requested and get off this accursed island.

"With these orc and goblins being pirates we may be able to find one or two of their small boats to use, unless one of you know how to sail a ship. Then we could, with a lot of luck and maybe a little help..." as he nervously glanced in the goddesses direction "steal their ship to make our escape."

Jory answers Daniv: "If you doubt whether you could use the prayer scrolls, then perhaps you can pass them on to Rebecca. She seems very dedicated to the Goddess, so she might be able to use them. Right, Rebecca?"

The glow around the statue begins to fade.  "Go forth with my blessings.  The temple is yours to shelter in until I unleash my wrath."  The glow fades.  The broken pieces return to where they had previously lain.  Though the goddess seemed to have left, it still felt like a part of here was still, still watching.

In reply to Man in Black (msg # 117):

Ooc.  Last post as internet going away

Lam sighs. Our god has given us a measurable task.

Let's see from keestake. Where these orcs and goblins landed. Then the best way to sneak into the manor.

We can give him his options to stay or leave  ha can serve out his time with his god now.

Lam gathers his gear awaits for the group.

Lam states to keestake, we need to know the location  where the goblins and orcs landed and the best way into the manor sneaky like.

Then once he gets that info will state to keestake, the goddess Athena has spoken to us and we must leave this island today as to why we need to know those locations and info.  You behave a chioce.  Stay here and serve out your goddess till the last day which will be tomorrow when she cleanses the island or leave with us.

Lam will say we should go to the manor and try to acquire special items to aid us. Then try for a boat out of here from the orcs or goblins.

Ooc sorry if long or sloppy post trying to post before I lose internet.

Jory helped to wake Keestake and then answered Lam:
"That sounds like a good plan. We need those items of power, I think. So we should look for the manor.
Keestake, if you know, then please help us find the manor.
I'm going to get my things too."
Jory put on his clothes and the leather armor again, picked up the broadsword and the other things he had been carrying before.

Deniv is already handing the prayer scrolls to Rebeccah, since she seems more inclined to take on the duties of a priestess.  He turns to the statue.  We shall do as you say, Merciful and Wise Athena.  He bows until the statue reverts to lifelessness.
I'm guessing they will not expect us during the storm.  He gives a sigh.  Now may be the best time to go after them.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 120):

After the statue glow fades, Sal offers a slight bow.
"I am not a religious man, but that truly was inspiring."

Finding Keestake.
"I see no problem if you would like to join us getting off this island.  I don't speak for everyone, but the kindness you showed us, I think they would all be in agreement."
Looking around the room for nods yes, or no.
"Now lets find the items to help us, and then get to building a raft of some sort to get off this island!"

Rebeccah was overwhelmed with emotion and barely registered anyone talking to her.  "Huh?  Oh, the scrolls.  Sure, I'll take a look."

She goes back into the main room to gather up her weapons.

Here is a reminder that may answer most questions.  It's easy to forget this stuff in the time it takes for pbp.

When asked about the treasure and whether he wants to get off the island with them, he has a lot to say.

"Yes, the treasure. There’s a lot of it. You know what grave-goods are? Where Viledel was from, they like to bury their noble dead with presents. When the dead wake up, in the time that the gods decree, they still have their favorite play-pretties with them.

"Viledel had him a son who died, and the Sea King buried him with weapons and armor and sacks of gold and a few servants and a little boat to sail ’em all over the seas. We can drag that boat down the catacombs to this place you can get at from the inside, but not the outside.

"But gettin’ at the goods is going to be hard. To get into the burial catacombs, you have to get into the manor where all them inhuman monsters is killing one another."

Jory answers Keestake: "We're not good at fighting yet. So if we take the normal entrance to the manor, we'll probably get killed within a minute. There must be some other entrance to th catacombs, otherwise the Goddess wouldn't have put this challenge to us. So we should look and search for ways down to the underground catacombs."

Jory moves away from the others and starts swinging his broadsword to practice how to slay monsters.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:14, Wed 10 Jan 2018.

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 125):

Feeling safe, dry, and warm, Sal just is enjoying this minute, since it won't last long.

Keestake did say they were fighting each other.  Daniv seems thoughtful as he speaks.  All we would have to do is find a way to escalate their hostilities.  To the point where they pretty much kill each other off.  Can anyone speak their languages?
Another thought oxcurs to him.  Or, we could set fire to the manor.  Burn them out.

"No, no other way.  We can get in.  I know the place better than they do!"  He cackles with glee.

The old man is horrified by Daniv's suggestion.  "No!  Not the master's manor!  I won't let you!"  He brandishes a chunk of wood, his eyes wild and fiery.  The arm is cocked back to swing, but then Keestake calms down in an instant.  Smiling again, he says, "You want your items of power, right?"

Jory says in answer to Keestake and Daniv:
"Burning the manor doesn't seem a good idea to me either. I think we have better chances by sneaking into the manor and avoiding the goblins and orcs. Ideally we should wait till they're fighting each other again and then sneak inside. Or we might try to distract them with a huge burning statue here on the hill, drawing them upwards while we descend to the manor. But I don't know if we have enough wood here to create a huge thing which draws their attention."

He looks over at the old man.  It's going to be destroyed by Athena anyway.  At least this way, it'll be on your terms.  Besides, magic weapons and stuff are indestructible, right?
He looks thoughtfully for a moment before looking at Jory.  Actually, there is more than enough wood.  We burn the temple.  That will attract their attention.  And, if we had some oil, we could set a trap for them.  Or even ambush them.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 130):

Trying to calm Keepstake down,  No No Keepstake WE will not desecrate of destroy anything here, that will be the goddess will and way.  The best way to the manor you know, so that will be our greatest treasure, that plus gaining the sailing boat and gear left of the king's ?son? will do.  It is just getting it to the shore will be just as hard.

Turning to the group, Nay, a distraction would be good but by the time the Orcs and Goblins kill each other the day will have past and we all will be be dead.  Time is of the essence, so today right now we go.  Keestake, your knowledge on the best way in we will follow, fight as we can, die if we must but some of us will have to live on to spread the word about our goddess and yours in the lands beyond this island.

Pausing a moment Gather the gear, all weapons and food/water for a treck in the boat.  We shall prevail.  Those who can read the spells from the book or the holy prayer words, know them as we are to go now.

OK, Keestake, now, please show us the best way into the Manor to get to the burrerial sight where the sailing boat is to get us off this island - to live again and spread the word of the goddess anew.

And Lam picks his gear up, dresses and motions for all to follow as he leads Keestake out to the Manor the only safe way keestake knows, weapons at the ready.

In reply to Lam Durus (msg # 131):

Grabbing his stuff, daggers put away and bow out with arrow knocked.
"Ok, we are doing this, I am ready to go!"

I can't cast any spells.  I can only decipher the book a word at a time, which I have to copy down so I can read the next.  This is going to take a long time.
Deniv gets his stuff together, what little there is.  Forgive me, wise Athena, he says as he tears free the drapes hiding the statue.  Cutting one with his dagger into four pieces, he folds them into into makeshift backpacks.  Keeping one to carry the other, full drape, spellbook, dried ink board, quill, captain's log, his arrowhead blades, and what is left of the crossbow bolts, he gives the others to Rebeccah, Jory, and Lam.  Soon, he has his dagger belted about his waist, and both pack and quiver slung on his shoulders, all over the stolen cloak.  He then takes up the looted shortbow.
I'm as ready as I'm going to get.

Tath simply nodded his agreement and gathered up the cloak and weapons he had taken earlier. Looking at the remaining equipment he picked up one of the extra battleaxes and tested its weight, "Like Lam said we need to divvy up the remainder of this stuff, no need leaving the weapons behind unless we have to. May need one later."

"The goddess may be set to destroy the island, but it is her temple to destroy.  I can't in good conscious allow that to happen, Daniv.  Sorry.  Besides, if the orcs already fear this place, I doubt they would come running her if it was on fire.  Hopefully the goddess will see fit to show us the right path."

Rebeccah takes up a shortbow, a spear, and a dagger.  "How many arrows do we have to share?"

Keestake seems agitated one moment and perfectly calm the next.

(I think it's a good idea for everyone to take a moment and check their inventories.  It is a game of survival and scavenge after all.  Also, you should be nearing level 1 real soon.  You'll be hearing from me soon regarding classes and alignments.  )

"Thank you for the drapes, Daniv" Jory says.
Jory also folds his one into a kind of backpack and puts his stuff in there:
- the pirate's navigational charts, the pirate's ship log, the pirate's book, the rope Jory made, and three of the daggers.
One dagger is attached by Jory to the studded leather armor.
He carries the broadsword in his right hand and the makeshift club in his left hand.
Jory suggests: "As soon as we have entered the manor, I suggest using the rope (I made) as a trip wire,so that any orc following us will trip and we will know that battle is upon us. We should see if there are suitable statues or door knobs inside, to which we can tie the tripwire."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:15, Sat 13 Jan 2018.

Jory asks Keestake: "Is there a way for us to approach the manor without being seen by the goblins and the orcs?"

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 138):

Lam makes sure all the gear the group has gathered is taken by someone.  Thanks Daniv, this will work as a backpack/sling to hold gear. 

Shaking his head as he packs Nope, we leave this Temple as we found it, Keestake can guide us as best as he can.

Jory, you can lead the way checking as we go with Einlian for support, but do not tally to long as we go as time is of the essence. Let Keestake be behind you directing the way.

I suggest two at a time if we can else single file.  So after Kestake, I and Daniv next then, Rebeccah and Sal,  Tath and Kerkrin, Edward and Melisana then Gunnar and Leozaren.  (OOC - I think that is everyone.

Smiling at Keestake, all will be fine.

If we can draw them out into an ambush, we might have a better chance of survival, Deniv says as he follows the others.  A couple of people go in, wreak some havoc, then run so they give chase.  Lead them into a bottleneck or someplace we can just shoot them from all sides.

In reply to Daniv Jensen (msg # 140):

"Time is running short.  I know we have to plan to make sure we don't die, but if we don't hurry up we all will die."

"Agreed we should get moving. Plan a little along the way, probably best to just try and sneak past them."

Jory says: "You want me to lead the way, Lam, while there is no distraction at all to keep the goblins busy? You want me killed by the first three arrows that come our way then? and then I assume I'm so lucky to evade the first two arrows. This is madness. We need a distraction."

In reply to Jory Ranglore (msg # 143):

"Ok no one wants anyone to die.  We are simply running out of time.
What if we gather some debris, and start a fire on one of the buildings the Orcs or Goblins are in.  Like suggested.  Then some of the creatures will come out, and create some chaos."
Scratching his chin in thought.
"I don't think her Goddess will mind us doing that. It isn't her holy temple or anything."

With everyone outfitted and ready to go, Keestake leads the group out through the back of the temple and the garden.  He follows a ravine down the hill.  The rain has lessened a bit, but the ravine still has water trickling down it.  The mud and water makes the walk treacherous, causing some to slip.  The walk isn't too long, but the sky can be seen lightening in the East.

(Proceed to IV)