Background Story
A few hundred years ago, there was a magic-user/thief by the name of Evander. He was wealthy and mighty in power and knew how to obtain any relic or artifact he decided was necessary for his “collection”. He was never an evil man. In fact, he was well known as a great friend to all, but his need to “collect” powerful artifacts and relics overcame his good senses. He once had a keep of his own in Snake River City, but decided to relocate to an unknown place where he hid that collection. He went after holy relics of great power and historical artifacts that were of great value. He seemed to travel all over the land collecting these things and his whereabouts remained unknown until recently.
Farmtown Village, just two days north of Snake River City, has recently fallen under some horrible affliction. This was the last known location of Evander, but his collection seems to have nothing to do with what has befallen the people. Evander's death took place a few hundred years ago, which is a tale confirmed by the Farmtown Village populace. Their ancestors knew the magic-user well and considered him a friend, but he walked into town one day and simply dropped dead from some unknown cause. The tales say his lair was a cave just outside of the village somewhere and his “collection” of relics is most likely there, but some say that demons have taken up residence since then.
Since about five years ago, Farmtown Village has failed to provide the usual goods they normally export to the neighboring towns and cities, but no one has figured out why and business is suffering. The food, livestock and other goods much depended on by the village have simply come to a screeching halt. Adventurers have been sent up to Farmtown Village to find out what is going on, but none have returned.
Today, there is another reason you are being sent to Farmtown Village. In addition to finding out what the problem is, you have been tasked with retrieving all of the holy relics and historical artifacts that are rumored to be there in the nearby cave. Since it was the lair of a clever and powerful magic-user/thief, there are bound to be horrible traps inside the place, but the party will be compensated well if they manage to survive. For each relic and artifact returned to the city marshals of Snake River City, the party will be rewarded with 500 gold each, individually – that is, 500 gold per person, per artifact. Some are known to be quite powerful and will test the will of the adventurers undertaking such an endeavor, but the price will be steep for any who seek to possess the treasures without returning them. The gods themselves have asked for the return of these items and it is best not to cross the gods.
Elven Kings, Dwarven Kings and the rulers of all lands that are missing the relics of their respective cultures have been tasked with this as well, so no one knows just how many people are out after the items. The only people known about as yet are the ones who have come to Snake River City to be counseled by the city marshals and the visiting dignitaries of the lands involved.
The Task At Hand
You are to travel to Farmtown Village and find the whereabouts of the cave where Evander kept his lair and (hopefully) the relics and artifacts. Also find out why the village has failed to export any goods for the past five years, seriously hindering business and depriving neighboring towns and cities of much needed goods.
The gods themselves have spoken to the temple priests and have asked for the return the holy relics and historical artifacts. Any adventurers succeeding will gain the favor of these gods and monetary rewards will be given by the mortal authorities in charge as well. The price for finding these relics and keeping them in your possession, while living to tell about it, will be steep. Any who dares such betrayal will be blacklisted by the entire land, hunted down and finally slain. If they manage to survive that, the gods will strike them down. The city marshals warn you that it is best just to return the items to Snake River City, collect the monetary reward, gain the favor of the gods, and leave well enough alone.
Upon retrieving the items from Evander's lair and figuring out what the problem is with Farmtown Village, return to Snake River City to return the items in question and deliver the needed information. Further instruction will be given from there, if any. The dignitaries from other lands will be there waiting for the party's return. Should they take too long, or should they not return at all, people will be sent out after them to make sure that no betrayal has occurred.
Chpt. 1 Background/Introduction
Chpt. 1 Background/Introduction
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
Re: Background/Introduction
The Relics and Artifacts In Question
Evander the Magic-User/Thief has stolen hundreds of items throughout his reign of hoarding. The following is a list of items that belong to the guildhalls and temples in Snake River City, with the exception of a few items that belong to peoples of other lands. Upon hearing that the Snake River City officials have decided to send out yet another questing party, dignitaries from these other lands have decided to be present and enlist the aid of the adventurers as well.
1) The Dagger of Helios – This is a holy relic belonging to the Amazon Tribes of the Lithican Rainforest. An Amazon Shamaness, Alti, is the visiting dignitary from Darna Village. She describes this item as a silver dagger, more like a kris. It will be known from other weapons of its class as it glows with a soft blue hue. It is rumored to be the key to the ambrosia (food of the gods) that the Amazons of the Lithican guard fiercely. It is said that several mortals have become gods once obtaining the ambrosia and eating of its forbidden essence. The dagger is said to be an extremely powerful weapon of the gods that cannot be touched by anyone other than an Amazon Shamaness. Druids have the gods' blessing to touch this artifact to retrieve it. Legend says that anyone else handling the Dagger of Helios will die a grim and instant death.
2) The Thieves' Pride – This item is a historical artifact that belonged to the Thieves Guild here in Snake River City a few hundred years ago. It is described as a stone key that will fit into the palm of the hand, but acts as a powerful weapon since it was instilled with an enchantment by a wizard. Legend has it that the key can only be handled by a thief belonging to the Snake River City guild without dying an instant death. The gods have granted any thief or assassin the permission to touch this item.
3) The Mighty Shield of Verrax the Virile – This item is a holy relic described by Duke Kalvar as a fine yellow gold kite shield with an amethyst encrusted coat of arms, forming the design of a mighty sword with a crown on top, a lion to the left and a unicorn to the right. The shield belonged to the Duke himself. It is said to give its bearer the ability to fend off any attack, and will attack back if provoked, even if the bearer is dead. There is nothing in any legend that specifies who can or cannot touch this relic.
4) The Spellbook of Renterus the Raucous – This item is a historical artifact that was owned by the Magic-Users Guild and belonged to the founder hundreds of years ago. It contains some of the old wizards first spells, but it is described as being bound completely in gold and fairly heavy. There is nothing in legends that say anything about who can or cannot touch it.
5) The Stone of Brugendorn – The Dwarves of Forevermore Valley once owned this holy relic. It is described as a solid gold amulet set with a very large red ruby. More importantly, it is said to give its wearer the ability to withstand any attack, no matter how powerful the opponent. Legend does specify that only those of Dwarven blood can touch this relic without being stricken down instantly. The Dwarven lord Ragencline is the dignitary from Forevermore that has asked for the retrieval of this item.
6) The Mace of Meresen – This is a holy relic that belonged to the main temple here in Snake River City. The priests have asked for help in retrieving this relic, which is said to be a golden mace with a glowing red hue. It is said to cleanse the enemies of righteousness with fire and can only be handled by a cleric of lawful good alignment. The penalty of handling this mace without the proper class and alignment will result in instant death. For this mission, the gods have granted any cleric the blessing to retrieve this relic.
7) The Bow of Belrain – This is a historical artifact that was said to have been owned by the greatest of Elven warriors. Several dignitaries from the Elven lands to the south have requested help in the retrieval of this item. It is said that Belrain was so loved by his people and his god that his bow was bestowed with a powerful enchantment, able to shoot fire without the need for any arrows. Legend also says that anyone not of Elven blood handling this bow will find himself turned to dust.
8) The Freedom of Finandoa – This historical artifact was once owned by a long ago Chief of the Tanaka Plains. A group of barbarians from the plains have come to Snake River City to plea for its return. The item is described as being an eagle feather dipped in gold and encrusted with tiny jewels. It is said to hold the power to cut through lies, deceptions and illusions, to see through to the truth of any matter. Nothing says it cannot be touched by anyone in particular.
Evander the Magic-User/Thief has stolen hundreds of items throughout his reign of hoarding. The following is a list of items that belong to the guildhalls and temples in Snake River City, with the exception of a few items that belong to peoples of other lands. Upon hearing that the Snake River City officials have decided to send out yet another questing party, dignitaries from these other lands have decided to be present and enlist the aid of the adventurers as well.
1) The Dagger of Helios – This is a holy relic belonging to the Amazon Tribes of the Lithican Rainforest. An Amazon Shamaness, Alti, is the visiting dignitary from Darna Village. She describes this item as a silver dagger, more like a kris. It will be known from other weapons of its class as it glows with a soft blue hue. It is rumored to be the key to the ambrosia (food of the gods) that the Amazons of the Lithican guard fiercely. It is said that several mortals have become gods once obtaining the ambrosia and eating of its forbidden essence. The dagger is said to be an extremely powerful weapon of the gods that cannot be touched by anyone other than an Amazon Shamaness. Druids have the gods' blessing to touch this artifact to retrieve it. Legend says that anyone else handling the Dagger of Helios will die a grim and instant death.
2) The Thieves' Pride – This item is a historical artifact that belonged to the Thieves Guild here in Snake River City a few hundred years ago. It is described as a stone key that will fit into the palm of the hand, but acts as a powerful weapon since it was instilled with an enchantment by a wizard. Legend has it that the key can only be handled by a thief belonging to the Snake River City guild without dying an instant death. The gods have granted any thief or assassin the permission to touch this item.
3) The Mighty Shield of Verrax the Virile – This item is a holy relic described by Duke Kalvar as a fine yellow gold kite shield with an amethyst encrusted coat of arms, forming the design of a mighty sword with a crown on top, a lion to the left and a unicorn to the right. The shield belonged to the Duke himself. It is said to give its bearer the ability to fend off any attack, and will attack back if provoked, even if the bearer is dead. There is nothing in any legend that specifies who can or cannot touch this relic.
4) The Spellbook of Renterus the Raucous – This item is a historical artifact that was owned by the Magic-Users Guild and belonged to the founder hundreds of years ago. It contains some of the old wizards first spells, but it is described as being bound completely in gold and fairly heavy. There is nothing in legends that say anything about who can or cannot touch it.
5) The Stone of Brugendorn – The Dwarves of Forevermore Valley once owned this holy relic. It is described as a solid gold amulet set with a very large red ruby. More importantly, it is said to give its wearer the ability to withstand any attack, no matter how powerful the opponent. Legend does specify that only those of Dwarven blood can touch this relic without being stricken down instantly. The Dwarven lord Ragencline is the dignitary from Forevermore that has asked for the retrieval of this item.
6) The Mace of Meresen – This is a holy relic that belonged to the main temple here in Snake River City. The priests have asked for help in retrieving this relic, which is said to be a golden mace with a glowing red hue. It is said to cleanse the enemies of righteousness with fire and can only be handled by a cleric of lawful good alignment. The penalty of handling this mace without the proper class and alignment will result in instant death. For this mission, the gods have granted any cleric the blessing to retrieve this relic.
7) The Bow of Belrain – This is a historical artifact that was said to have been owned by the greatest of Elven warriors. Several dignitaries from the Elven lands to the south have requested help in the retrieval of this item. It is said that Belrain was so loved by his people and his god that his bow was bestowed with a powerful enchantment, able to shoot fire without the need for any arrows. Legend also says that anyone not of Elven blood handling this bow will find himself turned to dust.
8) The Freedom of Finandoa – This historical artifact was once owned by a long ago Chief of the Tanaka Plains. A group of barbarians from the plains have come to Snake River City to plea for its return. The item is described as being an eagle feather dipped in gold and encrusted with tiny jewels. It is said to hold the power to cut through lies, deceptions and illusions, to see through to the truth of any matter. Nothing says it cannot be touched by anyone in particular.
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
Re: Background/Introduction
A Friend To Guide You
Corun Felcar, a resident trapper and furrier of Snake River City, has volunteered to accompany the party as somewhat of a guide. He has traveled about and knows the land and roads well, but he does not know the location of Evander's lair. Corun is a ranger and has made his living by traveling throughout the known world, trapping animals of different terrains and selling their furs. He has also been known to trap animals for much kinder reasons, such as catching familiars or furry friends for those who pay for such. His trade is not limited to small animals alone, but a rather wide variety. As a result, he's quite versed in the knowledge of how valuable pelts and hides can be.
Corun's job has taken him literally everywhere and there probably isn't a soul who doesn't know him. All of you have met with this ranger many times in the past and have done business with him for your own reasons, either for furs, pelts, familiars, or furry or feathered friends. The only place he hasn't traveled is into the Myrell Forest, since the Wood Elves there are extremely secretive, their king having his own intentions. The closest to the Myrell that Corun has come is the edge of the trees where he's met up with the king's scouts, doing business with them. Many Wood Elves have traveled into human towns north of the Myrell to seek out his business for their king, or even information about the surrounding lands. During his travels and business deals, Corun has made a personal friend out of each and every one of you, so you feel as though you aren't alone on this quest, though surrounded by others on the same mission. You have known him to be a hard working man, always honest and fair in his trades. As a chaotic individual, he's a little unpredictable at times, but he's always been a decent, loyal friend. It is his chaotic nature that has allowed him to be a little chameleon, able to adjust to the alignments of others. Of all people in the world, Corun is the least judgmental, literally seeing himself as a friend to the world.
The Journey Out
You have journeyed for two days along the main road from Snake River City to Farmtown Village. The land is a subtropical, coastal region so vegetation is lush and there are even palm trees all around. The coast to the east, of Sambala Sea, is only a two and half day journey from the main city. The weather is clear and warm and never usually gets very cool, even at night. Wildflowers grow, white clouds billow overhead and a cool breeze keeps you from overheating. The land is even lightly wooded with all manner of trees, but there are no evergreens. You are very close to the Lithican rainforest and the vegetation reflects that fact.
You make camp off road by night, and travel by day, knowing there isn't much in the way of danger in this particular area. As you near the village, you smell that telltale odor of livestock and farmland, then you see the land before you spread out until there is nothing to see but growing crops and herds of cattle and horses. The place is far from peaceful, however. The crops have been destroyed and most of the herds are lying slaughtered where they once stood. There are rotting carcasses all around and the occasional farmer here and there trying to clean the place. It looks like raiding bandits have been through here, intent only on causing misery for everyone around.
Since everyone was rounded up in Snake River City, including those from other lands, everyone has briefly met and agreed to travel together along with your friendly guide, for there is safety in numbers. It is a new millennium, a new century, and a new year. It is the year 1000 and the date is January 2. Although it is considered the winter season in other lands, you experience none of that unpleasantness since you are very close to the equator. It is 7am when you arrive in Farmtown Village. While the farmlands are vast, the village proper is extremely small and the only population here are the farmers and a very few tradesmen. The one and only inn and tavern, which doesn't see much business, appears up ahead – the Red Heifer Tavern. The entire village looks to be in ruins, but there are the inhabitants working hard to try to fix things, or so it appears. There is an eerie quietness in this village and the people seem a little nervous as you pass them. Some of them avoid eye contact, while others look up warily. Some of them have fear in their eyes, others have hope...
ACTIONS!!
Corun Felcar, a resident trapper and furrier of Snake River City, has volunteered to accompany the party as somewhat of a guide. He has traveled about and knows the land and roads well, but he does not know the location of Evander's lair. Corun is a ranger and has made his living by traveling throughout the known world, trapping animals of different terrains and selling their furs. He has also been known to trap animals for much kinder reasons, such as catching familiars or furry friends for those who pay for such. His trade is not limited to small animals alone, but a rather wide variety. As a result, he's quite versed in the knowledge of how valuable pelts and hides can be.
Corun's job has taken him literally everywhere and there probably isn't a soul who doesn't know him. All of you have met with this ranger many times in the past and have done business with him for your own reasons, either for furs, pelts, familiars, or furry or feathered friends. The only place he hasn't traveled is into the Myrell Forest, since the Wood Elves there are extremely secretive, their king having his own intentions. The closest to the Myrell that Corun has come is the edge of the trees where he's met up with the king's scouts, doing business with them. Many Wood Elves have traveled into human towns north of the Myrell to seek out his business for their king, or even information about the surrounding lands. During his travels and business deals, Corun has made a personal friend out of each and every one of you, so you feel as though you aren't alone on this quest, though surrounded by others on the same mission. You have known him to be a hard working man, always honest and fair in his trades. As a chaotic individual, he's a little unpredictable at times, but he's always been a decent, loyal friend. It is his chaotic nature that has allowed him to be a little chameleon, able to adjust to the alignments of others. Of all people in the world, Corun is the least judgmental, literally seeing himself as a friend to the world.
- CorunFelcar.jpg (31.4 KiB) Viewed 1346 times
You have journeyed for two days along the main road from Snake River City to Farmtown Village. The land is a subtropical, coastal region so vegetation is lush and there are even palm trees all around. The coast to the east, of Sambala Sea, is only a two and half day journey from the main city. The weather is clear and warm and never usually gets very cool, even at night. Wildflowers grow, white clouds billow overhead and a cool breeze keeps you from overheating. The land is even lightly wooded with all manner of trees, but there are no evergreens. You are very close to the Lithican rainforest and the vegetation reflects that fact.
You make camp off road by night, and travel by day, knowing there isn't much in the way of danger in this particular area. As you near the village, you smell that telltale odor of livestock and farmland, then you see the land before you spread out until there is nothing to see but growing crops and herds of cattle and horses. The place is far from peaceful, however. The crops have been destroyed and most of the herds are lying slaughtered where they once stood. There are rotting carcasses all around and the occasional farmer here and there trying to clean the place. It looks like raiding bandits have been through here, intent only on causing misery for everyone around.
Since everyone was rounded up in Snake River City, including those from other lands, everyone has briefly met and agreed to travel together along with your friendly guide, for there is safety in numbers. It is a new millennium, a new century, and a new year. It is the year 1000 and the date is January 2. Although it is considered the winter season in other lands, you experience none of that unpleasantness since you are very close to the equator. It is 7am when you arrive in Farmtown Village. While the farmlands are vast, the village proper is extremely small and the only population here are the farmers and a very few tradesmen. The one and only inn and tavern, which doesn't see much business, appears up ahead – the Red Heifer Tavern. The entire village looks to be in ruins, but there are the inhabitants working hard to try to fix things, or so it appears. There is an eerie quietness in this village and the people seem a little nervous as you pass them. Some of them avoid eye contact, while others look up warily. Some of them have fear in their eyes, others have hope...
- deadcow.jpg (45.62 KiB) Viewed 1346 times
- devastatedfarmland.jpg (36.47 KiB) Viewed 1346 times
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
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GreyWolfVT
- Wants a special title like Scott
- Posts: 33092
- Joined: Wed Oct 30, 2013 10:02 pm
- Location: Vermont
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
good lord that is a lot to read..... 
“All men did have darkness. Some wore it in the form of horns. Some bore it invisibly as rot in their souls.”
― Paul S. Kemp, Shadowbred
"If good people won’t do the hard things, evil people will always win, because evil people will do anything."
― Paul S. Kemp, Twilight Falling
DM - GreyWolf's Mystara Adventures - AD&D 2e
― Paul S. Kemp, Shadowbred
"If good people won’t do the hard things, evil people will always win, because evil people will do anything."
― Paul S. Kemp, Twilight Falling
Re: Background/Introduction
Sammy is a bit perplexed from being thrown together with this group of folk he doesn't even know, even if the city marshals did let him out for doing so. He takes it in stride however, he's learning to control his rash decisions lately, with a little help from the whip.
Taking point, he pauses briefly as they begin to enter the wasteland, calming down he somewhat skittish mount. "I don't like this" he says aloud to anyone who cares. Continuing into the village proper, he just doesn't understand. If his tribe would be affected by such a plague, they would just up and move, not try to re-build in the face of such terrible conditions. Again wondering out loud he asks "Why don't they just move and let the land heal itself?"
Finally they reach the town square and he reigns up, though he feels his mount's longing to run. "OK, we're here, so now what?"
Taking point, he pauses briefly as they begin to enter the wasteland, calming down he somewhat skittish mount. "I don't like this" he says aloud to anyone who cares. Continuing into the village proper, he just doesn't understand. If his tribe would be affected by such a plague, they would just up and move, not try to re-build in the face of such terrible conditions. Again wondering out loud he asks "Why don't they just move and let the land heal itself?"
Finally they reach the town square and he reigns up, though he feels his mount's longing to run. "OK, we're here, so now what?"
Re: Background/Introduction
Yeah, sorry about that. There won't normally be that much. Here, have a map of your general locale.
- Map 1.jpg (196.97 KiB) Viewed 1338 times
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
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GreyWolfVT
- Wants a special title like Scott
- Posts: 33092
- Joined: Wed Oct 30, 2013 10:02 pm
- Location: Vermont
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
Trendt looks at the wastelands of what was once a fair farming town. Listening to the barbarian or tribesman talk he can tell there the man only speaks as his people would do. "True that is the way of your people. But you must understand not all folk do such things. There are those that would rebuild as these poor folk are doin'. Don't blame 'em for doin' what they know."
“All men did have darkness. Some wore it in the form of horns. Some bore it invisibly as rot in their souls.”
― Paul S. Kemp, Shadowbred
"If good people won’t do the hard things, evil people will always win, because evil people will do anything."
― Paul S. Kemp, Twilight Falling
DM - GreyWolf's Mystara Adventures - AD&D 2e
― Paul S. Kemp, Shadowbred
"If good people won’t do the hard things, evil people will always win, because evil people will do anything."
― Paul S. Kemp, Twilight Falling
Re: Background/Introduction
Gwennethel
Being female, Gwennethel has no problem asking questions, directions or just small talk with others. She decides to ask one of the local farmers, who has a very hopeful look in his eyes, whatever has happened at this place. " Good morning good sir. We see what can only be described as a certain gloominess and devastation that has visited your land. Whatever could have caused such an undeserving folk to come to this situation? If it be bandits, please tells us as we will go and exact vengeance for you."
Being female, Gwennethel has no problem asking questions, directions or just small talk with others. She decides to ask one of the local farmers, who has a very hopeful look in his eyes, whatever has happened at this place. " Good morning good sir. We see what can only be described as a certain gloominess and devastation that has visited your land. Whatever could have caused such an undeserving folk to come to this situation? If it be bandits, please tells us as we will go and exact vengeance for you."
People who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do. (Isaac Asimov)
Never meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy, and taste good with Ketchup. (Derivation of Tolkien and Sherrilyn Kenyon)
The scientific theory I like best is that the rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage. (Mark Russell)
Never meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy, and taste good with Ketchup. (Derivation of Tolkien and Sherrilyn Kenyon)
The scientific theory I like best is that the rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage. (Mark Russell)
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AleBelly
- Rider of Rohan
- Posts: 9058
- Joined: Wed May 28, 2014 4:46 am
- Location: Research Triangle Park, NC
Re: Background/Introduction
"What in the name of Inanna has happened here?" asks Adel. "Is this waste and ruin from the villainy of men, or from some other source?"
If not replied to by the townsfolk, Adel will pay a visit to the Red Heifer.
If not replied to by the townsfolk, Adel will pay a visit to the Red Heifer.
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Grognardsw
- Rider of Rohan
- Posts: 12272
- Joined: Wed Jun 26, 2013 12:30 pm
- Location: ImagiNation
Re: Background/Introduction
Biblo Phyle, Arcanist
Biblo looks up from his journal in which he has been recording observations on the group's travels. A motley group it is, he thinks. "Hmmph, no libraries in this town, certainly none," he sputters to himself.
The libriomancer puts the book away in one of the many pockets of his vermillion robe. He turns to one of the townspeople who have hope in their eyes, discretely draws out a gold piece coin, and asks: "Good day sir. May Enlil's blessing be upon you and your home," palming the gold piece into the villager's hand, "We are travelers. What unfortunate incident happened five years ago that brought misfortune to your once-fair village?"
Biblo looks up from his journal in which he has been recording observations on the group's travels. A motley group it is, he thinks. "Hmmph, no libraries in this town, certainly none," he sputters to himself.
The libriomancer puts the book away in one of the many pockets of his vermillion robe. He turns to one of the townspeople who have hope in their eyes, discretely draws out a gold piece coin, and asks: "Good day sir. May Enlil's blessing be upon you and your home," palming the gold piece into the villager's hand, "We are travelers. What unfortunate incident happened five years ago that brought misfortune to your once-fair village?"
Last edited by Grognardsw on Tue Aug 19, 2014 11:30 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Background/Introduction
Merthyr to farmer: "Peace upon the good people of your village."
To himself, while surveying the area: "By Corellon, this just cannot be the doings of Lithica..."
To himself, while surveying the area: "By Corellon, this just cannot be the doings of Lithica..."
Re: Background/Introduction
Corun the Ranger is stunned. He looks around the place with his jaw dropped. "Wow! It's been slightly over five years since I've been here and the place was beautiful and fertile. I... can't believe what I'm seeing here."
He kneels down to investigate the ground for some moments while the hopeful farmers begin to gather around the party to answer their questions.
Corun's tracking check - [1d100] = 36
One of the farmers speaks up before the others.
"Not humans." He shakes his head adamantly and points in a vague westerly direction. "Five years of this we have had to endure. Demons took up residence in the cave where our children used to play. Every night they raid our village, killing livestock and destroying our crops. What they don't destroy, they keep for themselves. We see them only at night. They don't need light to see."
A lady farmer pops up next to the man and speaks up. "They are of different types. Short. They look like something that came straight out of the abyss with wicked spears and vicious, horrible visages with pointy teeth. Some have even dragged our children off never to be seen again."
The man who had spoken first nods his head in emphatic agreement and speaks up again. "They were very short. They looked to have reddish skin color in the moonlight and their eyes glowed an ugly yellow. Those were the first ones, but just two weeks ago, some even shorter ones started coming through - only 3' in height. These had the faces of demonic canines with horns and their skin was a darker red with glowing red eyes!"
About that time, Corun stands up and says he sees kobold tracks here and there, but that they are scattered so much that he wouldn't be able to follow them to any particular lair. Human tracks have overlain the kobold tracks and made it impossible to see exactly what happened, but it's pretty obvious that they were the ones raiding the village as some of them are still fresh in the mud.
He kneels down to investigate the ground for some moments while the hopeful farmers begin to gather around the party to answer their questions.
Corun's tracking check - [1d100] = 36
One of the farmers speaks up before the others.
- hopefulfarmer.jpg (33.8 KiB) Viewed 1295 times
"Not humans." He shakes his head adamantly and points in a vague westerly direction. "Five years of this we have had to endure. Demons took up residence in the cave where our children used to play. Every night they raid our village, killing livestock and destroying our crops. What they don't destroy, they keep for themselves. We see them only at night. They don't need light to see."
A lady farmer pops up next to the man and speaks up. "They are of different types. Short. They look like something that came straight out of the abyss with wicked spears and vicious, horrible visages with pointy teeth. Some have even dragged our children off never to be seen again."
The man who had spoken first nods his head in emphatic agreement and speaks up again. "They were very short. They looked to have reddish skin color in the moonlight and their eyes glowed an ugly yellow. Those were the first ones, but just two weeks ago, some even shorter ones started coming through - only 3' in height. These had the faces of demonic canines with horns and their skin was a darker red with glowing red eyes!"
About that time, Corun stands up and says he sees kobold tracks here and there, but that they are scattered so much that he wouldn't be able to follow them to any particular lair. Human tracks have overlain the kobold tracks and made it impossible to see exactly what happened, but it's pretty obvious that they were the ones raiding the village as some of them are still fresh in the mud.
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
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FronkyDondo
- Pathfinder
- Posts: 368
- Joined: Mon Aug 18, 2014 8:27 pm
- Location: Florida
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
Coppish Freunt
Coppish merely listens and observes, taking all he has heard in. He is still getting used to traveling in this mixed company. He scans the horizon in the direction of the caves.
Coppish merely listens and observes, taking all he has heard in. He is still getting used to traveling in this mixed company. He scans the horizon in the direction of the caves.
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FronkyDondo
- Pathfinder
- Posts: 368
- Joined: Mon Aug 18, 2014 8:27 pm
- Location: Florida
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
Gwydion Glyndawr
Gwydion walks over to Corun.
Let me see the tracks Corun - tell me what you think about their strength, their numbers? Mayhaps we could plan a trap? Or even track them back to their lair?
Gwydion walks over to Corun.
Let me see the tracks Corun - tell me what you think about their strength, their numbers? Mayhaps we could plan a trap? Or even track them back to their lair?
Re: Background/Introduction
Gwennethel
Gwennethel thanks the farmer for his information and vows to do what she can. Gwennethel has heard enough that she feels all on this mission should get together for a discussion of how best to proceed. "Sammy, Trendt, Adel, Merthyr, Biblo, Coppish, Gwydion, we need to have a private discussion after Gwydion has finished getting any information he can from Corun, and decide how best to proceed from here. We must have a discussion on what we may be facing & what talents we can bring to bear against these possible enemies."
Gwennethel curses in disgust as her hawk, Malachi, poops on her shoulder. In Hawkish, Gwennethel tells her hawk: ("How many times must I tell you?")Malachi leaps from her shoulder to find a nearby branch in which to perch until Gwennethel has cooled off. She then runs to a nearby puddle to clean herself up.
Gwennethel thanks the farmer for his information and vows to do what she can. Gwennethel has heard enough that she feels all on this mission should get together for a discussion of how best to proceed. "Sammy, Trendt, Adel, Merthyr, Biblo, Coppish, Gwydion, we need to have a private discussion after Gwydion has finished getting any information he can from Corun, and decide how best to proceed from here. We must have a discussion on what we may be facing & what talents we can bring to bear against these possible enemies."
Gwennethel curses in disgust as her hawk, Malachi, poops on her shoulder. In Hawkish, Gwennethel tells her hawk: ("How many times must I tell you?")Malachi leaps from her shoulder to find a nearby branch in which to perch until Gwennethel has cooled off. She then runs to a nearby puddle to clean herself up.
People who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do. (Isaac Asimov)
Never meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy, and taste good with Ketchup. (Derivation of Tolkien and Sherrilyn Kenyon)
The scientific theory I like best is that the rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage. (Mark Russell)
Never meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy, and taste good with Ketchup. (Derivation of Tolkien and Sherrilyn Kenyon)
The scientific theory I like best is that the rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage. (Mark Russell)
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Grognardsw
- Rider of Rohan
- Posts: 12272
- Joined: Wed Jun 26, 2013 12:30 pm
- Location: ImagiNation
Re: Background/Introduction
Biblo Phyle, Libriomancer
Biblo rubs his beard. "I take it this cave is the same where Evander kept his relics?" he says aloud, looking at the ranger. "If so we must vanquish this kobold menace before we can complete our true mission."
"Let us discuss over drink at the Red Heifer," suggests the scribe.
Biblo rubs his beard. "I take it this cave is the same where Evander kept his relics?" he says aloud, looking at the ranger. "If so we must vanquish this kobold menace before we can complete our true mission."
"Let us discuss over drink at the Red Heifer," suggests the scribe.
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FronkyDondo
- Pathfinder
- Posts: 368
- Joined: Mon Aug 18, 2014 8:27 pm
- Location: Florida
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
Coppish Freunt (Elf F/T)
"Gwennethel, I think you are correct. I think we can formulate a plan that maximizes each of our abilities/contributions and enable us to investigate and resolve this. We clearly have quickness and stealth in our group - even the lumbering Sammy moves with grace, especially for one so large. Let's take Biblo's advice, find a table at the Heifer, and decide how to proceed. Our plans could include lying in wait at night for the 'demons' to show up, and follow them back to their lair.
He flips a coin into the air and catches it.
"Gwennethel, I think you are correct. I think we can formulate a plan that maximizes each of our abilities/contributions and enable us to investigate and resolve this. We clearly have quickness and stealth in our group - even the lumbering Sammy moves with grace, especially for one so large. Let's take Biblo's advice, find a table at the Heifer, and decide how to proceed. Our plans could include lying in wait at night for the 'demons' to show up, and follow them back to their lair.
He flips a coin into the air and catches it.
Re: Background/Introduction
Corun the Ranger kneels on one knee again and checks out the tracks better, relaying what he sees. "From observing what these farmers are wearing on their feet, it's a good bet most of these tracks are theirs. The kobold tracks are mixed in with a lot of horse, cow, goats, sheep and even pig tracks, like the animals that weren't killed were led out of here. They definitely go west, but it looks like some effort to conceal the tracks was made after about ten yards distance." He moves in that direction while talking and nods. "Yep, they definitely knew what they were doing and didn't want to be followed. Maybe someone around here knows the location of that cave. By looking at the tracks here in the fields, it looks like there are a good number, I'd say at least forty kobolds, but it gets confusing after that. There could be more."
The hopeful farmer looks up at hearing the tavern mention and nods emphatically once again. "Jerome is the tavern owner. His nephew was always playing down there at that cave. He could tell you exactly where it is. Please... help us..."
Malachi the hawk gives a loud squawk from a nearby tree branch. Several little sounds are made by the bird of prey, apparently talking to Gwennethel. ("When you gotta go, you gotta go. I couldn't help it.")
The hopeful farmer looks up at hearing the tavern mention and nods emphatically once again. "Jerome is the tavern owner. His nephew was always playing down there at that cave. He could tell you exactly where it is. Please... help us..."
Malachi the hawk gives a loud squawk from a nearby tree branch. Several little sounds are made by the bird of prey, apparently talking to Gwennethel. ("When you gotta go, you gotta go. I couldn't help it.")
Life is that thing that gets in the way when you're trying to live.
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AleBelly
- Rider of Rohan
- Posts: 9058
- Joined: Wed May 28, 2014 4:46 am
- Location: Research Triangle Park, NC
Re: Background/Introduction
"The tavern beckons. We may discover the cave's location, as well as other information. My throat is dry after our journey, anyhow." Adel heads towards the Red Heifer.
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FronkyDondo
- Pathfinder
- Posts: 368
- Joined: Mon Aug 18, 2014 8:27 pm
- Location: Florida
- Contact:
Re: Background/Introduction
Coppish Freunt (Elf F/T) heads to the heifer. I am parched!
Gwydion (Elf Ranger) follows distractedly while still staring at the tracks...
Gwydion (Elf Ranger) follows distractedly while still staring at the tracks...