Sword of Doom - Post 10
The Company decides to take the darker of the two paths before them. Their rate of travel slows as they move down this rugged path. As they ride, the wind whistles through the trees. The horses are uneasy as travel continues.
The landscape becomes more and more deformed as you ride on. The trees present a truly frightful sight. They have long since died and the branches are bare. The limbs are long and thin, ending it what one could imagine to be hands...
Off in the distance, the road passes in front of a wall off area. A large front door can be seen, but nothing of what is behind the wall can be seen. Ivy covers most of the wall. What can be seen seems to still be in good shape, as if untouched by these unnatural woods.
The path seems to be narrowing. Or is it that the trees are moving to block your way?
"Goooo Backkkk...", seems to whisper through the area. Are your imaginations working overtime?
If so, then you imagine that one of the trees has the features of a... face?
"Proceed nooo furtherrr..."
The trees begin to close in... Their limbs reaching for the Company...
GM Notes:
It seems that Halloween is early this year! ;)
The Company is loosely surrounded by 12 of these strange trees.
Post Away!
SUBJ: Trusting (R) FROM: Zynara 09/28/90 S#: 454058
I bring my horse to a stop as the trees begin to close in. I hook the nunchaku into my belt and draw my sword. I then urge my horse forward. If any of the branches reach for either my horse, or me I will attempt to severe it.
If my horse doesn't want to continue forward, I will wait for some word or signal from Omni or my sub-leader (Forgot who that was). If ordered to attack, I will dismount and drop the reins to the ground. I will then charge forward and attempt to trim a few branches from some trees.
SUBJ: Drakkor (R) FROM: Troll 3a 09/28/90 S#: 454353
Sees trees closing in! Draws sword and dismounts and attacks the trees!!!
Yells" DIE !!!!!!"
Hopes others will follow in suite!!
Spectrum's Comments: Obviously a graduate of the school of "If it moves, whack it!"
SUBJ: Arathnasis (R) FROM: Wildchilde 09/28/90 S#: 91054
"What matter of evil is this?!?" "I suggest me move towards the wall no sense tiring ourselves fighting this foliage if we don't have to!"
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: Count Kill 09/29/90 S#: 455787
"Arathnasis has the right idea. Once we get to the wall we should be out of their reach!"
"Everyone, if you want to get past the trees do as I do!" I yell, before ducking forward in my saddle and grabbing my horse about the neck, and spurring him into a gallop forward towards the wall.
I stay tucked as close as possible to my horse, until I get out of the trees reach, and then sit upright while grabbing the reins and slowing my horse.
I'll then turn about to see if everyone made it out safely.
SUBJ: Omni Tuens (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 09/29/90 S#: 787929
Omni scowls as the trees gain a mind of their own.
"Jonathon, Ronin. You two know the ways of the undead and nature (respectively) better than the rest of us do. Can you tell anything about these trees, outside of the obvious?"
--and if that gets us no where...
"I say we go thru them. If they reach for you, defend yourselves and keep moving. Don't let them startle you horses. Mages-- if they get too uppidity, use a spell and torch them."
When we get to the gate, lets try to get it open QUICKLY.... but, as always, carefully.
SUBJ: Tristan FROM: FrankP25 09/29/90 S#: 511816
I will attempt to ward off the trees. The trees may not be evil. If they keep attacking I will fend them off with whatever it takes.
FrankP25
SUBJ: Sigh.... FROM: GM Kill 09/30/90 S#: 399119
I don't believe it I misspelled my characters name. Oh well.... :X
GM Notes: Ronin believes that the one tree with the face maybe one of the tree-spirits, a Treant. However, its appearance suggests that the tree is 'dead'.
And Kill, you didn't misspell you name. That's how I have it written on your character sheet!
SUBJ: Berek DemonSlayer FROM: AREION 09/30/90 S#: 422987
Back track:
Berek has been moping around since Belrek's departure. He's been very quiet and kept pretty much to himself since the gnome left. He spends most his time sitting in a quiet corner of the tavern, away from all the commotion, nursing his ale through the night.
On a number of occasions, he'd catch Merri staring at him, but she'd look away when he'd let on he noticed. A crooked smile grudgingly twists Berek's lips...the outlandish lies Belrek had told her...he couldn't help but chuckle at the memory, despite his best efforts not to. That was what he'd liked best about his little friend, the gnome knew how to make him laugh.
This time it's Berek's eyes that are turned by Merri's notice. He hadn't realized he'd been staring at her all that time. He fidgets uneasily for a few seconds before building up the courage to glance up to see if she's still looking. Back in his hometown, all the girls his age had been amply warned by parents to 'stay away from Berek DemonSlayer' by the time he reached his early teens. People settle in small towns like that for a reason...they LIKED the simple life! They certainly didn't want their daughters involved with the likes of him! Sure, there were a number of girls who would express their infatuation from afar, but young girls didn't defy their parents, it just wasn't proper. So young Berek channeled all his energy into becoming a great adventurer...a hero of legend...now it's all he knows.
If he'd heard her right, Merri's from a small town too. She must have endured some of the same hardships he had to get where she is now. How many parallels could be drawn their lives, he can't help but wonder...and how might things have been different had they grown up together.
Berek perks up a bit when the company departs. He notices Merri giving him curious glances as usual and sighs to himself. This isn't going to be easy.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Present:
As the trees close in, Berek defends himself and follows his subgroup until everyone has made it through. Once at a slight distance, he rears his mount to a halt and leaps to the ground. Drawing his Two-Handed Sword he shouts to the others: 'I'LL DELAY THEM FOR AS LONG AS I CAN! GET THOSE GATES OPEN!!'
Striking his steed on the rump, he sends it running after the group before whirling to face his attackers with a familiar crazed look in his eye.
When the first of the trees moves within striking range, he'll bury his sword deep in its trunk shouting 'HAHA!!!' Berek fights like a man possessed, flailing his sword at every opening, but allowing the trees to force him back in order to keep them from surrounding or over powering him. He'll break for the gate once it's open.
Spectrum's Comments: Berek returns from a long period of silence.
SUBJ: Schar
Like the most of the others, the healer is stunned at the sight of the trees moving to accost us.
"This is much worse then I could have imagined. Nature itself has been warped by the powers of the Zombie Master. How strong is this evil that we are dealing with?"
Upon hearing that the trees are a form of undead, I grasp the infinity symbol hanging around my neck. If these truely undead, then the power of my goddess could be of aid.
Holding the symbol before me, a speak in a loud voice:
"In the name of Azrella, I command you to move aside!!"
If I fail to turn the trees, I shall follow Omni's instructions and ride hard to the gateway.
SUBJ: Argent
'No need to repeat that, Omni!'
Argent urges her horse on, hunching down to better protect herself from these ornery oaks. Once in the free, she will ride thru the, hopefully, opened gates. Once inside, she will look around for any threats.
SUBJ: Ronin (R) FROM: Silent 10/02/90 S#: 424739
As the trees approach the group a pained look shows on his face and tears brim at his eyes. He says aloud" I will avenge you my tree friends!" When Omni asks about the trees I will tell him what I know.
Yelling to Berek "Try not to hurt them much, there is a chance that they can be helped...."
If I know that the trees cannot be helped, I will make a promise to properly destroy them as soon as possible. If I know how.
If I am attack I will use my staff to defend myself and any others who are in need of help.
SUBJ: move aside (R) FROM: GrooToo 10/02/90 S#: 445479
Upon hearing that the trees perhaps could be undead I turn to see if any of the other clerics are having any luck (heee) if not I draw my mace and prepare to bash my way through. by the way does anyone have some oil? Perhaps we could burn them
(i know this is going to bring comments but ohwell;)
Selarin Rylin
SUBJ: Omni (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 10/02/90 S#: 460381
"Defend yourselves foremost....we have to get that gate open, and quick. We don't necessarily want to destroy the trees, but don't hesitate to do so if they come after you."
And lets go with the three subgroups.... officially.
SUBJ: johnathan FROM: Stretch611 10/02/90 S#: 434902
Before
---------------------------------------
Forgive my silence I was thinking deeply of the question of any sane person willingly becoming one of the living dead. As far as the Zombie Master all I know beyond what I said is rumor. I heard that he uses all types of undead even those not known by the general population. He has guards that will shock and dismay the stoutest of men (and women.)
Now
---------------------------------------
Of the trees I know not, my abilities and knowledge of necromantic phenomena is small, but after today, growing rapidly.
I will stay between the group heading to the gates and the groups attacking the trees. I must view and learn from this. Are they evil? I dont know. If those attacking the trees get in trouble my color spray is ready. if that doesnt work and they remain in trouble, then Chill Touch and attack in melee.
Once the trees are dead, use my spellcraft to learn whatever I can from the trees.
---------------------------------------
Does any of the mages have an armor spell that they could cast on me? I feel a bit vulnerable. After the battle of course, can't waste the time casting it on me now.
Sword of Doom #11
As the trees close in, the order is given to make for the gate. Spuring your horses on, most of you are able to break out of the approaching trees on scathed.
Schar comes to a stop and presents her holy symbol. Calling upon the powers of her patron, she commands the trees to move aside.
Her plan works as 7 of the trees pull their limbs back. It is an easy matter to avoid the remaining 5 trees. Everyone can reach the gate without being attack.
Upon reaching the gate it silently swings open for you!
Riding in, you enter into a large courtyard, about 40' x 120'. On the right is large fountain of clear water. A stable is to the left.
On the other side of the courtyard, across from the main gate is a set of double doors. On either side of the doors is statue of a woman with flowing hair and dressed in forest clothing. The one on the right holds a longbow in her hands, the other a longsword. The weapons are part of the statue and not the real thing.
Once the last of the Company is within the courtyard, the outer gate closes.
Oddly enough, the eyes of the statues seem to follow you...
GM Notes:
Tristan notes that the statues resemble his patron, Ehlonna.
Now what?
Spectrum's Comments: This is indeed the temple of Ehlonna what was mentioned a few files back.
SUBJ: "Cute Place." FROM: GM Kill 10/04/90 S#: 833121
"Wonder who abandoned it? Of course, the bigger question would be why they did?"
I ride over to the fountain, and toss a copper piece into it.
"For luck." I say softly. "Because I get the feeling we're going to need it."
Then I ride over by the statues, and tip my hat to them.
"Good day, fair ladies. Even with the ages passing, you both are still very pleasing to the eye." I say with a warm smile. "Mayhaps you know where one could go to get a good flagon of ale, and a filling meal?"
Turning to the others.
"Our hostesses are good looking, but not much for conversation." I say with a chuckle.
"Well, we're not going to be able to take our horses inside easily, so I suggest we stable them here, before we do any investigating."
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 10/05/90 S#: 463147
"I agree. There's really no way to get the horses inside. That doesn't mean that I like leaving them here, but I don't see any more options. So let's make sure those stables are completely safe, then prepare to head in the front door. Tristan, can you tell us anything of those statues, or how they might relate to your goddess?"
With this, Omni dismounts and walks casually over to the pool, glancing into it with interest.
"This is a very unusual place...not as abandoned as we think, I believe."
After making sure that the horses are secured and the immediate surroundings are completely safe from undead or any other creatures, Omni gives the word to enter through the double doors. He'll stay near the front of the group, and rely on the clerics and Jonathon to relay anything they may sense, know, or think about the area.
SUBJ: Tristan FROM: FrankP25 10/06/90 S#: 439897
I will go immediately go to the statue of my Goddess, Ehlonna. I will check it thoroughly and then pray to her for a prolonged period of time. Hopefully, the others will be able to look out for anything else. Otherwise, I will carry on with my normal business.
GM Notes:
Jonathon, I forgot to mention it earlier, but none of the mages have Armor in their spell books.
The stable is in good condition and holds enough hay to feed all the mounts. Only ten of the horses can be stalled, but the rest can be placed in a small corral next to the stable.
As Tristan prays, he hears a quiet voice. "Welcome to my temple, follower of my faith."
Suddenly, the double doors swing open. Beyond is a short walkway to another courtyard.
"This is Ehlonna's temple", Tristan adds.
Cautiously proceeding down the walkway, you stand on the edge of the second courtyard.
This courtyard is quite different then the outer one. It is more square shaped, perhaps 50'x50'. Stately elms grow in four lines across the courtyard. Thick green grass grows throughout he courtyard.
At the far end, opposite the walkway, is a raised area. On this area is a pale green altar.
There are 8 exits from the courtyard. Two curtained off doorways are in the far wall, one in each corner. There are two doors on each side wall. The last two doors are on the south wall.
SUBJ: Schar
Upon clearing the area of trees, I speak a silent pray of gratitude to Azrella for her aid.
Once beyond the gate, I dismount and glance about. Seeing the statues, I move towards them.
"Aye, they do appear to be the visage of the Lady of the Forests. This must be the temple spoken of earlier."
Once the doors open, I'll follow the lead of the others, staying near the rear.
I gaze at the courtyard, marveling in it sheer natural beauty.
"It's difficult to believe that such a place of beauty could exist with the deformities outside."
I will wait with the others, waiting for Omni's next command.
SUBJ: Omni Tuens FROM: Omni Tuens 10/07/90 S#: 851157
Omni smiles as he looks around the temple, realizing this is a place of peace. Once they enter the second courtyard, he looks around in the hope of spotting a priest of some sort he can talk to. Failing this, he moves forward until he stands before the small altar.
"I- don't know if you can hear me, Ehlonna. But thank you for allowing us the sanctuary of your temple. We are on a mission to end the threat of an evil being, and have reason to believe he resides in this forest. Do you know of his darkness, and how we may stop him?" (You can assume that speech is adjusted accordingly if spoken to a priest)
After this, he speaks with the rest of the party.
"Tristan, do you know anything else about this place? No one open any of the other doors yet...we shouldn't do so until we are given 'permission' from a priest, or some other signal. I don't believe offending a god is a proper course at this time.
SUBJ: Argent
Upon seeing that no threats are present, Argent begins to look around. But not opening any doors, as Omni instructs.
'It seems to me that since we were let in that we are guests here. They can't expect us not look around at the very least.'
GM Notes:
As Omni speaks towards the altar, a noise behind him draws his attention. A door on the wall opposite the opens. Looking out the door is two large wolfs. Several wolf pups look around the larger two. The pups playfully run towards the party.
From one of the curtained off openings, a huge black bear lumbers out. It stand 4' high at its shoulders!
"Do not be afraid, adventurers." The voice comes from a third door. Turning again, you see an ancient elf maiden dressed in the robes of a Priestess of Ehlonna. She leans heavily on a worn staff.
"You are known as Omni Tuens, am I not correct? I was told of your impending arrival by my mistress. She knows of your mission and smiles upon your quest."
As she walks, the priestess stumbles and falls to one knee. Regaining her footing, she continues.
"I am all that is left of this once proud shrine... But I am old my time draws near. The Zombie Master has dealt all the others. He is an evil, black hearted being who is destroying this mighty forest."
"My patron has instructed me to aid you as I can. I fear that I cannot directly aid you in your quest, but I have gathered a cache of items to help in defeating the Zombie Master. Please, make yourselves at home here. You will find two bunk houses where you can rest. Do not fear the animals, they serve and protect me. You will find the pantry wellstocked. However, I must give you all one warning. Commit no evil act against nature or its good creatures within these walls. You will find the punishment for such an offense most severe."
Following the Priestess instructions, you all travel to a large dining hall. Food is prepared and a meal begun.
The Priests asks the muscular Berek to help her with a small task. The two disappear for a few minutes. When they return, Berek is carrying several items.
In the pile are the following items:
A Mace, Longsword, Longbow, 15 Arrows, Shortsword, a Broadsword, 2 Potions of Extra-Healing, 2 pairs of Bracers, A Quiver, A Dagger and A human/elf sized suit of Leather Armor.
The Priestess produces a Clerical Scroll and hands it to Tristan.
"The spells therein will aid you in the quest."
Look, he finds the scroll contains Sunburst x2 and Holy Word
"The lair of the Zombie Master is further down the road, beneath the graveyard. The task of defeating him shall not be an easy one. Undead abound. It is even rumored that he consorts with a being from the lower planes."
"The task before you is great. The rewards are also great. You may use this place as a base in your battles against the Zombie Master. My clerical powers are at your disposal upon your return."
Any other questions for the Priestess. Yes, all the items are magical!
SUBJ: Schar
Seeing the Priestess stumble, I immediately rush to her aid.
"Let me assist you, holy one."
After the items are present, I stand giving prayer to Azrella.
"I take this as a sign that the Powers-That-Be are behind us in the quest. With such assistance, we cannot fail! The fair Ehlonna is truly wise. We thank thee for these gifts so that we may remove the blemish on this fair forest."
SUBJ: Arathnasis (R) FROM: Wildchilde 10/07/90 S#: 418634
"Thank you milady, you and your patron are most generous! We shall rid this land of the evil that infests it!"
to the group "As for these Item so graciously given to us We must distribute them wisely as to create a stronger force with which to combat this evil. I would request either the Long sword, or a pair of the bracers, which would allow me to engage in both sword play and spell craft without removing my armor."
SUBJ: Perell... (R) FROM: GM Kill 10/07/90 S#: 418656
When the Ancient Priestess comes by, I bow, and then kiss the back of her hand.
"Fair madam, it is the finest of honors to meet you. Please forgive the others lack of greetings, they tend to forget their manners sometimes."
"You have my thanks for inviting us into your fine domicile."
At dinner, I watch the others, and wonder where the fine art of table manners died. Later, when she shows us the magic items.
"Thank you madam, for your gifts to us. Hopefully we shall not let you down, and shall instead slay this evil Zombie Master."
"And praise to your goddess as well, she may not be my god, but still deserves praise nonetheless, for having such fine priestesses as yourself." I say raising a glass in salute to her.
"As for myself, I am skilled in the rapier and stiletto, so none of the weapons would help me. And I do not wear armor, as it is so terribly restricting. So, there appear to be no items worthwhile for me."
"But, thank you anyway, fair madam."
SUBJ: Ronin FROM: ShadowElf 10/07/90 S#: 395046
Ronin has kept very quiet upon entering the ruin temple. Other than greeting the priestess, He has said nothing. After dinner, he is a little more relaxed. When the items are offered, he Thanks the priestess for the gifts. Not know if his god would be upset at the sight of one of his followers taking gifts from his rival. Knowing that the gifts will help cleanse the forest. Ronin says a quiet plea to his god for guidance in what to do.
SUBJ: Eliza (R) FROM: Zynara 10/07/90 S#: 91109
When we make it through the gates, I am relieved that no one was injured. When the gates close behind us, I immediately turn my horse and rush the gate and attempt to find the persons who closed the gate on us. Not finding anyone, I put my Katana away and pull out my Nunchaku. I will then dismount and search the courtyard. When the order is given to place the horses in the stables, I take special care at getting my horse settled down.
When we discover the place is safe and are bidden into a deeper area, I keep on guard and follow. When the wolves and the bear come into view, I am all set to fight but don't attack waiting for them to make the first move or the order to attack is given.
When the priestess presents herself, I relax a little and relax even more when she tells us the animals are harmless as long as we don't harm them. When she stumbles, I move forward to help until I see Schar reach her before me. I then stand ready to help if need be.
At the meal, I eat light. (Don't want anything heavy on the stomach if there is to be fighting.) When the magic items are brought out, I look closely at each. Seeing that none of the weapons are familiar, "I can not use any of the weapons so let those that can use them take them. As for the bracers, well I already have my armor. Let one of those without armor has them. As for the potions of healing, let a priest of ours carry them as a healing pack. Maybe we can add to it later."
Once all of the items are handed out, "Omni, when are we going to take are of those outside the gate? We will have to take care of them so we can return without them attempting to block us again. Since this is a temple of a good goddess, I don't think fire would be the proper way of handling the situation."
SUBJ: Johnathan FROM: Stretch611 10/07/90 S#: 412759
Being a bit uncomfortable around strangers I hang back once we are greeted by the priestess. After she speaks with the party, I raise a question or two.
1. How is it that this place is guarded by the undead?
2. Being a powerful cleric to a diety such as the one you serve, how is it you allow them so close to your temple?
3. By the use of simple parlor tricks any would be cleric could do what has just been seen. With ALL RESPECT TO THE GODDESS, I apologize for my questions, but why should we trust you?
I feel bad to be the one to raise these questions, but questions like this are asked of me wherever I go, and now I see why others feel a need to ask when I am around. Trust is good but Trust needs to be earned. Forgive my mistrust lady.
:: bow deeply ::
GM Notes:
The answer to Ronin's moral dilemma quickly comes to mind. The balance in this forest is heavily tipped in the favor of evil. The minor rivalry between your patron and Ehlonna is secondary to restoration of balance to this forest. You may use equipment to aid you in this task, but once the task is completed either return the equipment or give/trade it to one of your comrades.
The Priestess politely responds to Jonathon's questions.
"The trees are indeed guardians, but not of this temple. They serve the Zombie Master, not Ehlonna. If I were to leave this place, they would attack me. My powers do not extend outside of the temple. I hesitate to destroy the trees. I pray that there is someway that they can be redeemed."
"Trust? I prefer to deal with faith. You need to have faith Jonathon. I have no reason to lie to your group. You doubt that I am a Priestess of Ehlonna? You seek proof?"
SUBJ: temple FROM: GrooToo 10/08/90 S#: 819808
As we skirt past the trees and into the temple I relax and thank my god for the luck to pass such creatures unharmed. I let my horse out to the coral and follow the party inside watching and listening. I listen carefully to the priestess and eat to satisfaction but not gorge myself. If the party is willing I would like to be given the mace, the leather armor, the bracers, the arrows or a potion. Any or all would help the party and myself greatly. I look to my leader Arathnasis to see if I am allowed to take any of them but I also keep my eyes open to anything the others don't want to take because I will happily carry it so we don't have to leave anything behind. Other than that I will fill my waterskin and pray for guidance from my god.
Selarin Rylin
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 10/09/90 S#: 110580
"Thank you for your gifts, fair cleric. We shall not fail you, or your god- this forest will be ridded of the Zombie Master. There will be no need to prove your identity; Jonathon meant no offense, I assure you."
And then, turning to the others:
"When we leave, we'll do what we can to avoid the trees...if they attack again, don't hesitate to turn them, those of you that can. If things take a turn for the worse...far worse ...don't hesitate to separate from the party. We can regroup here."
--------
Sorry if I missed anything, folks... Just let me know. As far as treasure distribution, I don't want any of it myself. Please let me have your equipment requests, and I'll try to distribute it (fairly) by the end of the week.
SUBJ: Argent
When Omni asks for requests of the magical equipment Argent speaks.
'Of all the equipment here, I can only make use of the Bracers. Therefore, that is what I request.'
'It seems to me that now is the time to decide upon a policy for distributing magic items, to avoid future complications. The matter of locating spellbooks is a simple one, as all the mages of the Company shall share the new magicks. I put it to you all that Omni have the final word on handing out magic items, trusting his wisdom to be fair. Those here who do not get a magic item today, shall have first choice the next time we are dividing up treasure or items? What say you all?'
SUBJ: Schar
Schar stares thoughtfully at the items on the table.
"My patron is most strict in that which I can use. Of the weapons, it is the mace that I can use. I cannot wear normal armor, so a set of bracers would be most welcomed. If no one objects, I would be willing to carry one of the potions. Eliza's suggestion of a healing pack is a good one. I would be willing to handle such a pack, as I am a healer. Argent speaks wisely on the distribution of the items."
Once we are ready to go, I will mount up and ask to ride near the front of the Company, to put better use of my ability to repel undead.
SUBJ: Merri FROM: Merri2 10/10/90 S#: 434892
Merri is surprised at the beauty of the temple once inside the gates. After that horrifying ride through the trees...she shudders. Never had she heard of undead trees.
Anyway, she looks around in wonder. Her hand is never far from the pommel of her sword, but gradually she relaxes. She doesn't say much except for greetings in front of the priestess, she's in awe of this place and it's inhabitants.
When, and if, the priestess ever leaves them alone, she asks for the long sword or bracers. She'd take the bow or arrows but prefers hand-to-hand combat.