The Frontier #35
While tracking the goblin army, a pride of griffons have decided to feast on their mounts. There are nine of the beasts.
As they circle overhead, the Seekers prepare to defend themselves. Some dismount and take their mounts to safety, while others await the attack with their steeds. Weapons are drawn and spells are prepared.
Cereld holds his battleaxe over his head and gives the party Heironeous's blessing.
Dar casts his Flame Blade spell and he gains a fiery sword.
Two griffons mistakenly fly between two large oaks. Finrod seizes the opening, casting a Web between the trees. The spell holds them for moment, but they quickly claw their way to freedom.
Araduin pumps two Magic Missiles into one of the griffons.
Arocken enters the clearing from the forest and introduces himself. Seeing the griffons, he fires his longbow, hitting once.
From the sidelines, Bernice nails a griffon in the flank with a sling stone. It howls in pain.
At last, the flight begins its attack!
Two griffons fly towards Stephanie, believing Thunder to be a desirable supper. Stephanie shows them the error of their ways. Her sword bits deep into both attackers, slaying both!
The griffon the Araduin Magic Missiled attacks him. He tries to swats it away with his quarterstaff, but misses. The griffon drives its claws into the horse and it's rider.
Another griffon soars towards Arathron. It crashes into his horse, slaying it and throwing the rider to the ground. Arathron attacks, wounding the beast with his longswords. Grabbing the slain horse in its powerful talons, the griffon takes to the air and flies away.
A griffon lands before Eagle and his horse. Eagle casts entangle and the grass and weeds grab on to the griffons paws. Aided by Arocken and Dar, the griffon is soon slain.
Bernice's mule is another griffon target. With ease, it soars in a carries off the mule. Bernice comes out of her hiding place, launches another bullet, but misses the griffon.
Kaan is besieged by an attacking griffon. He is clawed in the attack. Kamriell comes to his aid, driving his battle-axe into the griffon. Wounded, it flies off in search of easier prey.
One griffon sees Cereld's horse as lunch. It claws the cleric in its attempts to reach the mount. Cereld connects with his battleaxe and the griffon retreats.
The last griffon flies at Finrod. Fin is prepared and hits the beast with a Color Spray. The griffon is stunned and crashes to the ground. It is killed before it can recover.
Blod comes to the aid of Araduin. His massive sword slices into the griffon, killing it.
Five of the griffons have be killed, the rest have fled.
Arocken's war dog locates Bernice's hiding place. It stares at her for a moment and then licks her face.
GM Notes:
Now that wasn't too bad...
Arathron's horse and Bernice's mule are gone. Araduin's mount is wounded.
Hit Points:
Araduin 7 of 11
Cereld 30 of 36
Kaan 2 of 6
Light is rapidly fading from the sky. Going to camp here or move on a little farther?
SUBJ: Aw Phooey!!!(Arathron) (R) FROM: RAD DWEEBE 04/12/90 S#: 460457
"Dang, why couldn't I fend that thing off?! I hate that!"
Arathron will go over and pet the war dog, if it doesn't bite his leg off before (hoping he doesn't.)
He will await the plans of the party.
SUBJ: Arocken FROM: Wildchilde 04/12/90 S#: 418012
I forgot to introduce my friend and companion Kortul (war dog) but apparently Bernice has already met him.
SUBJ: Help (Kaan) FROM: Xent6 04/12/90 S#: 43813
Kaan finally drops to the ground holding his severed chest. He moans. "Ohheauuoheee....." :)
I quietly pray to Lydia for help to her loyal servant.
Having gained some inner strength I turn to Cereld: " Please, priest of Heironeous, can you heal my wounds? I am in bad shape and have lost some blood. Ohh, I hope they don't return...."
SUBJ: Stephanie
'Wow... Need any help Finrod?' ;)
As the griffons flee, Steph raises her sword overhead.
'Flee cowardly beasts! 'Les Lightning strike you down!'
Her gaze wanders to the beasts she downed. What magnificent creatures. Feline grace and power combined with the wings and claws of a noble falcon. The true mount of a warrior...
Even she is surprised at how effective she was in this combat. Slaying two griffons with that many strokes of Lightning is bound to do wonders for her ego. Noble Validar would be proud, she thinks.
'Me thinks we should journey some more before camping for the night. The smell of carrion is bound to attract predators.'
'Hail and well met, Arocken. Welcome to the band!'
'Thou had best take care how one goes about chopping the tree down, friend Finrod. One poor swing and it might fall on you!'
'Aye, Blod, I shall awaken ye for guard duty... Provided you don't mind a sharp kick in the shine!' :>
Spectrum's Comments: I never imagined Steph to be the center of attention for so many men, although she isn't interested in Blod. He did, however, get together with someone else...
SUBJ: Eagle (R) FROM: Perpbuster 04/13/90 S#: 466096
After the battle, Eagle will offer thanks to his god and burn two of the griffons. He will then take the griffons organs and place them in a tight sack to sell to a MU. He will also CLW to those that are wounded and ask them to thank him that have made it possible to heal us.
SUBJ: Blod FROM: Begal 04/13/90 S#: 524196
"Wow! That was *GREAT*! And Steph killed 2! Me think me gonna like her!" Blod says blushing. He will then meticulously cleans his sword and help anyone who needs it. "It getting late. Me say we should camp here."
SUBJ: Kamreill (R) FROM: Kid Texas 04/13/90 S#: 440740
Aye, 'twas a glorious battle, even though I only got one slice in. Well, I say we should journey a wee bit farther and rest then, lest monsters be attracted by the battle...
SUBJ: The trembling halfling.... (R) FROM: Modesty1 04/13/90 S#: 423948
Her eyes widen in surprise as she actually hits a griffon. But Bernie's calm dissolves after the battle. Her remorse of her cowardess and fear of the large creatures overwhelms her afterwards. Too involved in a good cry to be surprised at the appearance of the war dog, she allows him to lick away her tears. Hugging the dog, she tries to stop crying.
When she emerges from her hiding place (or someone discovers her and the dog) she says, a bit too cocky 'Golly! What a fight! We sure got them-didn't we! And me, little ME, hit one!' she pats her hip 'Trusty ole sling. First time I used it in a real fight...really my first...' at this point her bravado breaks down and she bursts into tears. 'They...they were so big!' ::gulp:: 'and they took dear old Buttercup.' ::sniffle:: 'I was so s-s-scared.'
With that she runs to Araduin and latches on to his leg, sobbing into his knee.
Full of remorse, self pity, ect.
Bernice
SUBJ: Araduin FROM: Deslock 04/13/90 S#: 408496
Dismounting from Springleaf (my horse), I'll inspect his wounds and do what I can for them.
"Your aid was timely, Blod, as was your arrival, Arocken. I too feel we should move from this spot before making camp. The corpses will likely call unwanted attention to this spot."
Returning to tending to my horse, I am somewhat surprised to find a halfling attached to my leg. Seeing her distress, I'll go down on one knee. Taking her shoulders in my hands, I look into her eyes.
"Do not fret yourself, Bernie. Each of us uses those skills with which we are blessed. Your abilities call for stealth and accuracy, and there is no dishonor in that. Your intent is true, no more can be asked."
Spectrum's Comments: You can tell who is Bernice's favorite by which leg she latches on to.
SUBJ: ::sniff sniff:: FROM: Modesty1 04/14/90 S#: 421786
Bernice manages to stop her tears, and her red rimmed eyes shine in admiration to Araduin 'Well...I guess... if you say so' and she is momentarily speechless.
But only for a moment. 'Great job, guys! Really great! Is anybody as hungry as me? Uncle Bernie always said battles made him hungry...' and she's off, back to her usual self.
GM Notes:
After some quick healing, the Seekers continue on their way. (Everyone's back up to maximum HP's.)
That night and the day that follows pass without incident.
Late that night, something odd does occur. During the forth watch, approximately during the pre-dawn light, Stephanie, Rathis and Finrod become aware of an approaching rider. It is come from the Whispering Hollow direction.
The rider closes in. Is it a trick of the morning light, or does this stranger appear to be.... Validar?
***************************************
Assume that you are all awakened for this unusual event.
Also, Eagle, how do you intend to keep the griffon organs from spoiling? Best guest would place the party 5 to 7 days away from Gateway. Also, the group will also be running out of food in 4 days. Hunting would solve the problem, but the group cannot travel and hunt at the same time.
Spectrum's Comments: ::sigh:: Yes, Validar was back! Apparently whatever situation was going to keep Muskateer away from Q for a great length of time had been resolved. I never really explained just HOW he returned from the dead. ("I'm not dead yet!") The others just seemed to accept it at face value. All in all, this lead Frontier #35 to being perhaps the longest single post I had on Q. It ended up with a whooping 53 responses!
Of course the newbies (what I called new players-- new-bodies) had no idea who Validar was...
SUBJ: Kaan FROM: Xent6 04/15/90 S#: 467892
Gets his sling out and loads it. He does not fire until attacked. If there is no immediate attack he will use his barden abilities on the man and try to make him friendly.
SUBJ: demonslayer (R) FROM: Ace37 04/15/90 S#: 514878
demonslayer will stand ready, and if he has to he will cast a sleep on the stranger. As for my three proficiencies 1 to magic and 2 to fighting abilities.
SUBJ: Arocken FROM: Wildchilde 04/15/90 S#: 490271
I ask who Validar might be and if he is supposed to be friend or foe. I will move my hand to the handle of my sword and prepare just in case the latter may be the case.
-
I also suggest that we stop one day and hunt as we will soon be needing the food and I volunteer my Woodland skills to aid in this.
SUBJ: VALIDAR FROM: Panther13 04/16/90 S#: 444262
The figure that approaches the camp is both well armed and armored. He rides atop a large warhorse in scale barding. The man approaches confidently, his lance pointing straight into the sky. The clanking metal of both the horse and the warrior in plate mail attracts attention quickly. To those who notice and recognize, the warrior's shield is emblazoned with the family crest of the Barony of Pyris.
The armored warrior approaches closely to the camp, his helm still covering his features until he seems to recognize some faces. He dismounts and removes his helmet, showing all watching that it is in fact Validar.
"Greetings, my companions! I am glad to have found you, but have some concern. Why did all of you abandon me in the forest after the battle with the foul wench, Wendelaine?"
Validar will approach the group, but seeing all the new faces, will soon stop. He sees the looks on some of their faces and concern begins to grow in him. Have these people charmed his friends? Where are the rest of the Seekers?
Validar takes another step forward, looking expectantly at his old friends, but will keep a wary eye on anyone, making sure he is not outflanked. His hand goes to the hilt of his blade without drawing it, and his body tenses, waiting.....
***************************************
To those of you who have never met this noble warrior:
Validar is a tall, well-built young man. He is a bit over six foot in height and looks quite imposing in his mail armor. He wears his brown hair closely cropped and sports a mustache. The warrior's shield bears a black griffon on a field of blue and silver.
Although unsure of the situation at hand, he gives the impression of one who feels he can handle himself in any situation. His voice remains calm and his gaze is steady as it meets each of the assembled group in turn. As the time slowly passes, the blade slowly, almost unnoticeably begins to slide out of its scabbard.
SUBJ: Stephanie
At the sound of the approaching rider, I'll join the other guards. I put my hand on Fin's shoulder, looking over him at the mounted figure.
Upon seeing who it, Steph's eyes bulge out in shock.
'Val-- Validar?! How can it be.... Your-- dead! We buried you...'
This is too much for the woman-warrior to handle. Her eyes flicker and she faints.
Spectrum's Comments: That was also the ONLY time Steph ever fainted!!
SUBJ: Kamreill (R) FROM: Ozymand1as 04/16/90 S#: 490227
^Kid Texas' other screen name is Ozymand1as by the way. ::Kamreill gently lifts Steph to her feet and tries to revive her:: ::Looks steadily and assuredly into VALIDAR's eyes.::::puts hand on hilt of sword just in case, tho:: 'Hello noble one'
SUBJ: Kaan (R) FROM: Xent6 04/16/90 S#: 459500
A young bard with a sling in his hands greets you. He lowers the sling and starts speaking. " My name is Kaan, I joined the Seekers in your absence. I am sure we will be friends. Your name is Validar? Another fighter, great. Are you very good? ..... " (Uses barden influence) Should the man turn out to be possessed I will raise my sling again and fire. I also listen and look in the area around us, to make sure we are not ambushed.
SUBJ: Araduin (R) FROM: Deslock 04/16/90 S#: 817912
Roused from my meditations, I'll watch the warrior approached. As he reaches our camp, I'll rise and move toward him.
- The look is right, the feel is clean. There is no evil in his eyes. -
I extend my hand to the warrior. "Well met, Validar. It would seem there is a tale to be told here."
SUBJ: Cereld (R) FROM: Lanceson 04/16/90 S#: 798347
"Easy people. This is a little too strange to trust this easily. Just everyone back off a little bit. Kamreill please rouse Stephanie quickly, we may need her.
Ok, Validar or whoever you are, I think we need a little explanation here. We left you dead and buried after our battle with Wendy. I know I don't have the power to restore you to life, and no one else that we knew of in that village had that power, so explain your presence here. If you are truly Validar, and I pray to Heironeous that you are him by some miracle, then I will give you my apologizes later."
Cereld will stay alert, probably talking to Validar for most of the night to make sure that he is who he claims to be (asking him about their past adventures, the command word to Finrod's box, things like that). He will allow Validar to remain in the camp, but make sure that the watch knows that right now, he is not to be trusted.
In the morning, Cereld will suggest that they do spend one day here so that some of the others can go hunting to increase our food supply. During that day, Cereld will cast two spells the first being Know Alignment on Validar (after asking his permission of course, My ears are still ringing from last time.) And secondly Speak with the Dead. I will try to get in touch with Validar's spirit.
SUBJ: VALIDAR (R) FROM: Panther13 04/16/90 S#: 804462
Validar is slightly taken aback by the fair Stephanie's outburst...
"Buried...? What do you mean....?"
For a moment, the armored warrior seems to slip into deep thought, but he quickly rouses himself back to reality. Validar looks again at the assemblage, as if searching for an answer. When Araduin approaches, he will offer his hand, letting go his sword, but it then returns nearby the weapon, should its use become necessary.
"It seems that there is indeed a tale to be told, friend Araduin, but I am not certain that my words will match those of you. I do not fully comprehend the meaning of fair Stephanie's words. Why would you have buried me? And if so, how am I came to be here?"
"As I remember, we battled the foul wench Wendelaine and I succumbed to her foul magicks, quite disappointedly. The next I knew I awakened in the forest, in a glade not far from here. My armor was intact again, as well as being cleaned and polished to a shine. That came as a surprise as Wendelaine's magical fire had destroyed it, or so I thought. I assumed that it must have been some form of illusion, for this armor is indeed real."
"I became more bewildered as I saw that my noble mount Havok did not await me, but this steed instead. It is a fine mount and has served well, but is not mine. I trust that you still have Havok in your care? As well, as the other horse as well?"
When Kaan speaks up, Validar will greet him.
"Well met, Kaan. What do you mean by absence? I sense you speak of it in days. But the battle with Wendelaine didn't happen more than a day ago by my knowledge. I am fully healed, but assumed that it was the work of a cleric. Have I been unconscious longer than I believed? I am starting to lose some confidence in what I believed to be true."
Validar will continue to remain apart from the group until some of these questions are resolved. He will continue to keep a watchful eye on all the assembled group, just to be certain.
In response to Kaan's query:
"Yes, I am indeed a noble warrior. My father is the Baron of Pyris of the Kingdom of Cynalon. And yes, I am quite skilled in the use of these arms, as all of you are sure to learn in the not so distance future."
SUBJ: VALIDAR FROM: Panther13 04/16/90 S#: 793676
Apparently, Cereld's post and my own were posted at the same time and I missed his comments, so......
"Friend Cereld, I am indeed who I claim to be. I understand your apprehension as I clearly share that feeling. There are things which need to be settled here for certain."
"You claim that I died at the hands of the foul wench? How can this be, when I am standing here in your midst? You must have been mistaken in your diagnosis of me. But even so, that still does not explain my armor, or this steed."
Validar will graciously accept the offer to remain in the camp, but will certainly not remove his armor or let his weapons off his person. Also, he will not bother to rest, feeling well rested anyway. Also, I want to keep a watch on them all!
"I am sorry, but I cannot permit you to cast a spell at this moment toward my person. I have as many doubts of you as you of me at this moment in time. I cannot take the chance of treachery until my mind is set to ease."
"I am sorry, but I have NO idea of this box's command words belonging to Finrod. I never took much interest in it or its use."
"However, I can retell our experiences to settle that I am who I claim to be."
SUBJ: VALIDAR cont. FROM: Panther13 04/17/90 S#: 832474
Validar will recount the tale of the Seekers. He tells of the initial battle with the cleric of Hextor and the bandits and the unforgettable confrontation the he and Cereld had afterward; the battle with the Ankhegs; finding out about Wendy's search for her father; the unfortunate recon mission that resulted in the unknown whereabouts of the noble TigerCat; the attack and defeat of the Hextorite temple; and the trail of the mountain monster to the tower of Akbar and then on to the mines and the confrontation with Wendy.
Validar will stop for a moment, thinking long on that thought.
--- They say that I died. Is that what happened to the others who are not here? Dalliance, Finius, Dantar,.... Arafel? ----
His mind is locked onto the thought of the fair ranger-maiden. It is moments before he responds again to anyone.
"I could go even further in depth into our adventures if anyone wishes. I was there. I know what happened. I can tell you of the companions we have lost if you wish: Mage Merlin, felled by the bandits, a death I can scarcely forget; Sir Radagast, eaten alive by the Ankhegs which ambushed us; noble TigerCat, lost in battle with the goblin horde; Flint and Dwaladin, the two dwarves both were felled in the temple of the war god; and apparently, the others fell in the battle with the wench Wendelaine....."
His thoughts sweep over him again, and then, for the first time, Validar actually notices the wench amongst the group. His calm is quickly erased as the thoughts of his comrades, dead at her hands, floods over him. He is up in a blinding flash, despite the heavy armor about him. His sword is ripped from its scabbard in a blurring motion and is at the wenches' throat before anyone can make a move to stop him.
"She is alive....?!?! How can this be? She is responsible for the deaths of many of our number and yet she sits amongst you?! According to your words, she is even responsible for my very death. Well, wench, it seems I am about to avenge myself.....aye, and my companions as well....."
Spectrum's Comments: Now things are going to get REALLY interesting!!
SUBJ: Stephanie
... Awakens in Kam's arms to find that this was not a dream. Validar is truly in our midst once more. With watery eyes, she gives the warrior a big hug.
'Welcome back, you big lug!'
I'll continue to stand ready, in case this is treachery of some type. When he notices the wench, my hand goes to my sword, but does not draw it. I have mixed feelings towards the wench. I continue to take my previous stand. I will have nothing to do with the wench. I shall not slay her, nor protect her. My sword remains sheathed.
GM Notes
For the newer players, Val was kind enough to retell what has occurred in the game.
*********
Wendy has an unusual reaction when threatened by Validar.
'Who is this man? Why does he threaten me? Finrod?'
She looks to Finrod for an explanation.
SUBJ: FINROD (R) FROM: SGT STONEY 04/17/90 S#: 39579
Finrod's right hand draws his sword, which he interposes between Validar and Wendy. His left hand reaches into his pouch for a spell component. His voice rings forth louder than would have been believed from his elven frame, in a tone that he learned to carry over battle:
"VALIDAR, HOLD!!! If I had any doubts that you are indeed by some strange magic returned to us, they are now dispelled! Ever were you impetuous, pompous, and arrogant, eager to dispense your 'justice' in the fashion of your 'noble' kind. You are still the dragon in the china shop, and still presume to mete out 'justice' and 'vengeance' as you define them, with arrogant disregard for other folk, or the truth."
"This wench is under my protection, and you will not touch her, unless you desire to feel again what it is like to walk the paths of the dead! She is being taken back to Gateway to stand trial in a court of law, and is not here for your whims. Even if she is found guilty, she will no doubt be diagnosed as quite mad, and receive treatment. Now back off, or I shall be forced to return you to the dead!"
To Wendy, if time is available, Finrod will explain that when her 'fits' seize her, she is apt to commit terrible acts... one of the reasons that we are forced to restrain her, however gently but firmly.
On other subjects, if Val does not force a fight, Finrod will offer the following:
"My Tactical training tells me that we dare not allow the goblins to gain further ground on us. The rear-most elements, that we will hit-and-run raid first, will be their supply trains, and we can no doubt delegate one or two of our number to grab some grub while the fight occurs. That should tide us over the couple of days extra to gateway. I fear that with yet another two of our horses overburdened with the loss of the mounts that were eaten, we will be slowed direly. Even if we mount the lightest folk in pairs on the strongest horses, we will be slowed, and we cannot afford to dally an hour, let alone a day if we are to break this assault before it gets started. Even if nothing else of my plan comes off, we MUST beat the goblins to Gateway, and raise the alarm, so that an organized resistance can ride out to meet them. "
"No doubt even Validar can see the wisdom in this."
::Finrod looks to Steph for support in this, at least...::
SUBJ: Araduin (R) FROM: Deslock 04/17/90 S#: 56119
- And there were those who doubted that this was the true Validar. -
"Validar, Wendy's life was spared by Finrod, for better or worse. She is his responsibility. On the subject of moving and hunting, I would rather move now, and worry about the hunting later. We need to close the distance between the goblins and ourselves. How long ago did they pass this way? Though I lack the ability to determine this, there are those here who are well versed in these skills. On another matter, I can use my magicks to summon a mount for a limited amount of time. This would east the overburdening of our current steeds."
SUBJ: Valgrin (R) FROM: Vanter 04/17/90 S#: 476383
Examining the new comer he is interested in the tale that is told and asks for more information.
SUBJ: Arocken (R) FROM: Wildchilde 04/17/90 S#: 842629
I suggest we move now, as we need to gain precious time that we are losing while interrogating Validar. If he is who he says he is we have nothing to fear, If he is not we have sufficient power to deal with him. I will check the trail to see how long ago they passed through.
SUBJ: Kaan FROM: Xent6 04/17/90 S#: 812336
"It is really nice to meet you.", Kaan says after your story. "Obviously your death must be some kind of illusion. Another possibility would be that some Cleric or Wizard found your grave and revived you. He might have kept you asleep until yesterday. I really think you should submit yourself to some magical examination. After all you might still be charmed or controlled or something. It would be interesting to see if other dead party members appear..... I think we should try to get food from the goblins, though we have to be careful, they eat everything!!"
SUBJ: Validar FROM: Panther13 04/18/90 S#: 843944
Validar will return the fair Stephanie's wonderful greeting.
"I do not feel as though I have been gone long, but the sentiment is touching nonetheless. I eagerly await the opportunity to do battle at your side again, my lady."
To Kaan:
"I can understand your concern, but I am not worried over any outward control. As some of our comrades can tell you, I am quite stubborn and far too egotistical for anyone to subvert my will. I think the danger you fear is unfounded. As for my 'death', I cannot be certain if it was ever truly real. Perhaps all of you were the ones experiencing the illusion."
To Aroken:
"It is hardly even morning yet, my impatient friend. We shall be on our way soon enough. I wish to beat the goblin horde to Gateway as much as any here. I do fear, however, that at this time, we may be too late. I hope that I am wrong."
"And as for having enough power to handle me: it is wise to not accept everything at face value. Nor to underestimate an opponent. Of those who know my skill, they would all have to admit that should I wish to, I could smite down a great number of you before falling. Perhaps almost all...."
With this, Validar gives a nod and a slight smile toward Stephanie.
(And now the moment you've all been waiting for...)
Validar will pause for a moment, his sword still at the wench's throat.
"Do not even breath too deeply, woman", Validar will hiss. "I assure you I could cut out your throat before you or your 'protector' could move."
SUBJ: Kaan... FROM: Xent6 04/18/90 S#: 451494
talks to any mages if they would mind casting a Detect Magic. " This can hardly be taken as an offense, noble Validar, since it will detect magic in everything. Even your iron will can be broken. In my tavern I once heard a story.... But back to the point! Do not fear from Wendy, as far as I got it, she will not escape her just punishment. At the moment she is magically bound and won't harm any of us. Fin, if it calms Val down, why don't you renew her charm?"
SUBJ: VALIDAR FROM: Panther13 04/18/90 S#: 851297
Validar will turn to face Finrod, meeting him with an icy stare. His blade does not move a fraction, however. He studies his ally for a very brief moment.
"I salute your bravery, if not your intelligence in this move, Finrod. You say she is under your protection? Perhaps you are under HER control."
"Cereld. Stephanie. Someone tell me that my thoughts are wrong and that she killed none of our comrades at arms. If she is innocent of that, I will put down my weapon. But if she IS indeed responsible for the deaths of our friends, then she WILL die by my hand now. And none of you shall stop me. That I swear."
Validar will not take his eyes from Finrod during the (very tense) moment.
"Do not overestimate yourself, my friend. I sincerely doubt that you have the power to send me to death's door. Whatever little toy you are fumbling with in that pocket will not avail you against my sword arm and my vengeance. Do not be a fool...."
SUBJ: FINROD (R) FROM: SGT STONEY 04/18/90 S#: 70164
Finrod holds Validar's gaze, and while the Nobleman was speaking, his left hand has found the sand it was seeking.
"I'd leave it alone, if I were you."
The moment stretches out an eternity...
SUBJ: FINROD (R) FROM: SGT STONEY 04/18/90 S#: 84340
Fin's gaze flickers briefly from Validar to Wendy, and back again, and his grip shifts uncomfortably on his sword...
"Val, do not force this... we have much to lose if the party is divided"
Again the flicker of gaze...
SUBJ: VALIDAR (R) FROM: Panther13 04/18/90 S#: 816260
Validar's eyes narrow at his comrade and opponent. He stops for a moment, taking the opportunity to think back on the image of his dead comrades. He remembers his mental image of the fair Arafel and her bright emerald eyes and thinks to himself that he will never see those eyes again.
His features remain blank and after another moment, he turns to look at Wendelaine once more, the one who killed his friends, and he knows what he must do.
In a flourish of metal, with a speed that belies his armored bulk, Validar will strike at Finrod, knocking his sword away and trying to knock him off-balance, with a savage blow. If that is accomplished, Validar will then turn himself to the deed to be done, hoping that Finrod will need a moment to recover from the surprise blow. Validar will try to kill Wendelaine in the moment or two that comes.
Validar will try to keep Finrod off of him, until she is dead. Then, if Finrod insists on continuing this foolishness, will turn all of his attention to him. Validar will remain silent throughout, his thoughts his own.
SUBJ: VALIDAR (R) FROM: Panther13 04/18/90 S#: 805961
To Kaan, after the fireworks are over:
"I appreciate your concern, but I can assure you that your fears are indeed unfounded. And as far as casting any such spell on my person against my will, those who know me will think better or it. Those who do not know me, consider this a fair warning. I do not seek to offend you or anyone, but that is simply how it is."
SUBJ: Araduin (R) FROM: Deslock 04/18/90 S#: 799058
- This witch's mere presence is enough to cause dissention. -
I will take no part in the conflict between Validar, Finrod, and Wendy, and will urge the others to remain clear and await the outcome of this conflict.
"It is surely evil enough that this quarrel has arisen, we do not need to aggravate the situation by allowing it to spread."
SUBJ: A Stranger.....? (R) FROM: DM IMP 04/18/90 S#: 818360
A lone figure approaches the party from the brush surrounding their camp he silently steps into the clearing. He is dressed in shades of forest green stands about six feet tall and tho he wears a cloak it is easy to tell he is lean and strong his blond hair reaches to the middle of his back and is unkempt he is also covered with trail dust obviously from long days on the road.
He walks into the camp with his hands raised as a sign he means no threat. "Hail to all of you. My name is Telinos I have traveled many miles to find your group I have been tracking you for days, sorry I couldn't reach you in time to help with those beasts. I wish to join your little band if you'll have me"
::steps closer to the party hands still raised::
"My sword is at your service"
::draws short sword and places it on the ground with the hilt facing the party::
At your service;
Telinos
Spectrum's Comments: Yet another new player. Boy did he pick a dozy of a time to appear!
SUBJ: Arocken FROM: Wildchilde 04/18/90 S#: 502115
I will ponder the Validars words and watch actions intently. I will also be impatient to hit the trail stating that 'what the hell, we are already all awake we might as well get moving instead of staying here and arguing"
Mail From: REM9 Date: Thursday 19-Apr-90 00:35 EDT
Ok this is Cereld's actions.
1) About the Wendy situation. He will step in to defend Wendy if necessary, all the while trying to talk Validar into calming down and talking about this (suggesting things like if you still want to kill her after we talk, she is still going to be tied up) If he agrees, and this is not settled before hand like you said it already is, he will bring up the facts that we are delivering her to justice and is it right for him to become judge jury and executioner? Also is it honorable to slay a foe that cannot defend herself. If it comes right down to it though, Cereld will not risk his life or any member of the party to stop Validar, but it would be hard for him to accept him back in the party if he does kill her.
2) About hunting or going on. Cereld will agree with the counsel of his teammates and decide to travel onward. Of course he will still do the speak with dead spell (Validar can not complain about that one since if he is not dead, it is not on him.)
Spectrum's Comments: On to the next file for the conclusion of the Validar & Finrod clash!