Booking passage on a ship back to Seawell, Mendez says a final goodbye to Thesis.
‘Are you sure you won’t come with me? I could use your strength if I’m to defeat the dragon.’
Thesis is fully recovered thanks to Mendez’ healing magic, the ministrations of the devoted Lizard-woman and his own remarkable constitution.
‘I’m ssorry Mendezz, but you know what I’m desstined to do. Will you not reconsider and come with me?’
Mendez smiles. ‘You’re about to head off to an island ruled by evil humans and lead an army of oppressed Lizard-man slaves against them. Even if you truly become their King, I doubt there’ll be a place for someone like me. Still good-luck and I sincerely hope you’re successful.’
The normally quiet Lizard-woman steps forward and kisses Mendez’ hand.
‘I thank you for my people and my King. May Semuanya watch over you and blesss you with many children.’
Mendez smiles for the first time in days.
‘And may ‘Semiwuniwawaw’ do the same for you.’
With a wink to Thesis over the head of the blushing Lizard-woman, Mendez boards the ship.
Showing posts with label Thesis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thesis. Show all posts
Friday, October 22, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Grave departures
Working all day, Mendez manages to dig the four graves.
Tears well up again as his now unclouded mind realises that both Eolar and Durin were killed by his bow.
It gives him no solace that they had killed his sister and one of his brothers before his retaliation.
The Were-bear, the Dwarf and the Half-Elf wear expressions of surprise but Bodush looks weirdly relieved.
The traitorous Elven Archer and the sly Kobold have long gone but Mendez had no real feeling for either of them. He hardly knew them at all really.
Fingers bleeding and fine silk clothes soiled, Mendez trudges back into his Father’s mansion to clean him self up.
He passes servants and family like a zombie.
A short while later, he visits Thesis’ room; he notices that the door is bolted shut from the outside and there are two guards posted.
‘Let me in’, Mendez growls at them.
The two guards exchange worried glances before acquiescing.
Thesis lies on the cold wooden floor. All the furniture has been removed from this room and the Lizard-woman slave has draped herself around him in an attempt to keep him warm.
Casting one of the few spells available to him, Mendez pours a little strength into his horribly wounded friend.
It’s enough.
Thesis opens his eyes with a double-lidded blink.
‘Mendezz? Isss that you?’
‘Yes my friend. You are safe and I’m about to take you out of here.’
Hefting his massive friend onto his feet, Mendez heads towards the relocked door.
‘Let us out!’
One of the terrified guards peeps through the small barred window in the reinforced wooden door.
‘We’re under orders not to let the creature out.’
Mendez utters a curse with a voice no louder than a whisper, ‘Let us out now and I won’t kill you where you stand. Do you think a few inches of timber can protect you from me?’
Hurriedly the guards slide back the bolt and open the door.
‘Supported by Mendez on one side and the Lizard-woman on the other, Thesis makes it through the doors and eventually to the outside courtyard.
Three horses are waiting for them, all saddled up and loaded with their equipment.
Mendez takes a moment to say goodbye to his weeping Mother before leading the three of them out through the front gate.
Tears well up again as his now unclouded mind realises that both Eolar and Durin were killed by his bow.
It gives him no solace that they had killed his sister and one of his brothers before his retaliation.
The Were-bear, the Dwarf and the Half-Elf wear expressions of surprise but Bodush looks weirdly relieved.
The traitorous Elven Archer and the sly Kobold have long gone but Mendez had no real feeling for either of them. He hardly knew them at all really.
Fingers bleeding and fine silk clothes soiled, Mendez trudges back into his Father’s mansion to clean him self up.
He passes servants and family like a zombie.
A short while later, he visits Thesis’ room; he notices that the door is bolted shut from the outside and there are two guards posted.
‘Let me in’, Mendez growls at them.
The two guards exchange worried glances before acquiescing.
Thesis lies on the cold wooden floor. All the furniture has been removed from this room and the Lizard-woman slave has draped herself around him in an attempt to keep him warm.
Casting one of the few spells available to him, Mendez pours a little strength into his horribly wounded friend.
It’s enough.
Thesis opens his eyes with a double-lidded blink.
‘Mendezz? Isss that you?’
‘Yes my friend. You are safe and I’m about to take you out of here.’
Hefting his massive friend onto his feet, Mendez heads towards the relocked door.
‘Let us out!’
One of the terrified guards peeps through the small barred window in the reinforced wooden door.
‘We’re under orders not to let the creature out.’
Mendez utters a curse with a voice no louder than a whisper, ‘Let us out now and I won’t kill you where you stand. Do you think a few inches of timber can protect you from me?’
Hurriedly the guards slide back the bolt and open the door.
‘Supported by Mendez on one side and the Lizard-woman on the other, Thesis makes it through the doors and eventually to the outside courtyard.
Three horses are waiting for them, all saddled up and loaded with their equipment.
Mendez takes a moment to say goodbye to his weeping Mother before leading the three of them out through the front gate.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Miserable Ever After
The ‘battle’ is over and all of his friends lie dead with the exception of Thesis.
Tears rolling down his cheeks, Mendez pours his last bottle of healing elixir down the mighty Lizard-man’s throat.
It doesn’t revive him but it keeps him from death.
After shouting down his Father’s call for Thesis’ head, Mendez numbly walks over to the horribly burned body of his little sister.
Despite his Father’s spells, he’d managed to resist firing on his teammates until Eolar had killed her with a single blast of divine power.
She had been so young; so beautiful.
How could Eolar have done it?
‘Don’t fret son’ comes the voice of Estaban.
The now hated voice of his Father.
‘A simple call to our nearest Cleric will have Eris back with us in no time’.
Mendez spins round in a fury.
‘Never call me ‘Son’ again. I’m no longer under your spell or your thumb. I shall bury my friends, pack my bags and leave forever. Never ask for my help again or expect me to return.’
Tears rolling down his cheeks, Mendez pours his last bottle of healing elixir down the mighty Lizard-man’s throat.
It doesn’t revive him but it keeps him from death.
After shouting down his Father’s call for Thesis’ head, Mendez numbly walks over to the horribly burned body of his little sister.
Despite his Father’s spells, he’d managed to resist firing on his teammates until Eolar had killed her with a single blast of divine power.
She had been so young; so beautiful.
How could Eolar have done it?
‘Don’t fret son’ comes the voice of Estaban.
The now hated voice of his Father.
‘A simple call to our nearest Cleric will have Eris back with us in no time’.
Mendez spins round in a fury.
‘Never call me ‘Son’ again. I’m no longer under your spell or your thumb. I shall bury my friends, pack my bags and leave forever. Never ask for my help again or expect me to return.’
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
No Holds Bard
Three weeks ago…
Hawkmoon is searching idly for more diamonds when he hears a noise nearby…
“Are you alone?”
Looking around, Hawkmoon can see no one but knows Estaban’s tricks well enough to recognise this as being one of his.
Durin’s in sight but too far away to hear anything.
“What do you want Estaban?”
“I need to hear your report. I need to know the strengths and weaknesses of your travelling companions. Their favoured spells and tactics. Their vulnerabilities and defensive shortcomings. Everything I need to know to defeat them when the time comes!”
Hawkmoon sighs and, while making sure he’s out of sight, tells Estaban everything he wants to hear.
“Very well - though I don't approve of your underhand tactics to influence the others. Am I not insurance enough?
Overall the Party are a disparate bunch. Different aims and goals. They don't act together, but somehow manage to salvage most situations. Usually through the use of powerful magics.
Bodush should probably be your first target. His firepower is unprecedented, but catch him early on and he would be an easy target.
After a few seconds, though, beware. He will fly, become invisible and also likely create a number of fake images to confuse your archers.
There's even a chance that he’ll pre-empt an attack and protect himself in advance.
The Werebear is nothing special in his human guise, but beware him once he changes. He becomes extremely strong. I would suggest avoiding melee with him if you can.
Next you may wish to focus on Thesis: the lizard-man. He and the Dwarf are both good close combatants, but the lizard has the slight edge. Being a barbarian, Durin's tactics are often baffling but once stuck in a combat he will quickly become angry and become a whirling dervish of axe! Be prepared for healing against these two. Split them up; Divide and conquer.
The pedantic Cleric: Eolar is more an annoyance than anything. He’s self serving and almost as shambolic in combat as the Dwarf. He will probably be called on to heal the others, but instead will try to damage you himself! He may call down the fury of his God, but catch him in melee and he will drop quickly.
Mara'ch, the new Kobold, is a tricky one. Keep your fighters away from him. He can't fight himself but is somehow able to sap the strength of others.
If you are looking for an easy kill, then shoot him. Be quick, though, as he will likely disappear like Bodush.
Use the element of surprise to your full advantage. Act quickly decisively. Concentrate your attacks against one target at a time.
I have no loyalty to these adventurers - but make no mistake. Turn on me as you would turn on them and I swear I will return from the very bowels of Hell to take my revenge upon you...”
There’s silence for a moment before Estaban speaks again.
“Good work Hawkmoon. You’ve confirmed my thoughts and given me everything I needed to know. When you arrive back here, do nothing until Bodush and Eolar have handed over the diamonds. No doubt my youngest son will try to speak up for his friends. As soon as he starts talking, shoot Bodush in the back.
As for me turning on you… save your oaths. A deal is a deal."
Hawkmoon is searching idly for more diamonds when he hears a noise nearby…
“Are you alone?”
Looking around, Hawkmoon can see no one but knows Estaban’s tricks well enough to recognise this as being one of his.
Durin’s in sight but too far away to hear anything.
“What do you want Estaban?”
“I need to hear your report. I need to know the strengths and weaknesses of your travelling companions. Their favoured spells and tactics. Their vulnerabilities and defensive shortcomings. Everything I need to know to defeat them when the time comes!”
Hawkmoon sighs and, while making sure he’s out of sight, tells Estaban everything he wants to hear.
“Very well - though I don't approve of your underhand tactics to influence the others. Am I not insurance enough?
Overall the Party are a disparate bunch. Different aims and goals. They don't act together, but somehow manage to salvage most situations. Usually through the use of powerful magics.
Bodush should probably be your first target. His firepower is unprecedented, but catch him early on and he would be an easy target.
After a few seconds, though, beware. He will fly, become invisible and also likely create a number of fake images to confuse your archers.
There's even a chance that he’ll pre-empt an attack and protect himself in advance.
The Werebear is nothing special in his human guise, but beware him once he changes. He becomes extremely strong. I would suggest avoiding melee with him if you can.
Next you may wish to focus on Thesis: the lizard-man. He and the Dwarf are both good close combatants, but the lizard has the slight edge. Being a barbarian, Durin's tactics are often baffling but once stuck in a combat he will quickly become angry and become a whirling dervish of axe! Be prepared for healing against these two. Split them up; Divide and conquer.
The pedantic Cleric: Eolar is more an annoyance than anything. He’s self serving and almost as shambolic in combat as the Dwarf. He will probably be called on to heal the others, but instead will try to damage you himself! He may call down the fury of his God, but catch him in melee and he will drop quickly.
Mara'ch, the new Kobold, is a tricky one. Keep your fighters away from him. He can't fight himself but is somehow able to sap the strength of others.
If you are looking for an easy kill, then shoot him. Be quick, though, as he will likely disappear like Bodush.
Use the element of surprise to your full advantage. Act quickly decisively. Concentrate your attacks against one target at a time.
I have no loyalty to these adventurers - but make no mistake. Turn on me as you would turn on them and I swear I will return from the very bowels of Hell to take my revenge upon you...”
There’s silence for a moment before Estaban speaks again.
“Good work Hawkmoon. You’ve confirmed my thoughts and given me everything I needed to know. When you arrive back here, do nothing until Bodush and Eolar have handed over the diamonds. No doubt my youngest son will try to speak up for his friends. As soon as he starts talking, shoot Bodush in the back.
As for me turning on you… save your oaths. A deal is a deal."
Friday, April 30, 2010
Survival of the Fattest
Roly sneaks a peak through his fingers. The psychopathic tiny man has disapeared and all his children appear unharmed.
Looking around himself he sees the carnage of the furious but short lived battle.
Every single one of his ‘rescuers’ lie dead or dying.
He feels mixed emotions. He actually liked the Dwarf and the Were-bear and he felt a debt to the teenage Sorcerer. Ashamedly though, he's glad that the Elven Cleric Eolar was killed.
He spies Mendez craddling the massive Lizard-man Thesis in his arms. It looks like he’s trying to bind his equally massive wounds.
As quietly as possible, Roly ushers the boys, girls and Siren children back to the gate.
He is grateful when the two servants open it without fuss.
Without a backward glance at the mansion, wagons or treasure, Roly wobbles away back towards the city of Shalalah as fast as he can.
Reassured by the weight of the bulging purses on his belt, the multiple necklaces, broaches, bangles and the rings on every finger, Roly knows that he’ll have enough money to ensure a comfortable living for himself and a future for all of his charges.
Looking around himself he sees the carnage of the furious but short lived battle.
Every single one of his ‘rescuers’ lie dead or dying.
He feels mixed emotions. He actually liked the Dwarf and the Were-bear and he felt a debt to the teenage Sorcerer. Ashamedly though, he's glad that the Elven Cleric Eolar was killed.
He spies Mendez craddling the massive Lizard-man Thesis in his arms. It looks like he’s trying to bind his equally massive wounds.
As quietly as possible, Roly ushers the boys, girls and Siren children back to the gate.
He is grateful when the two servants open it without fuss.
Without a backward glance at the mansion, wagons or treasure, Roly wobbles away back towards the city of Shalalah as fast as he can.
Reassured by the weight of the bulging purses on his belt, the multiple necklaces, broaches, bangles and the rings on every finger, Roly knows that he’ll have enough money to ensure a comfortable living for himself and a future for all of his charges.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The Speed of Fought
Happily Bodush and Eolar walk through the open gates into the courtyard of Estaban’s mansion.
There are many guards, but that’s to be expected, as they’ll be needed to protect the diamonds.
Thesis and Durin seem still baffled by their companions generosity but still follow them into the walled off courtyard.
Hawkmoon enters behind them but moves around unnoticed to the other side of the walled in area.
Mara’ch, still disguised as one of the children, enters with the entourage that the Party have accompanied or collected along their journey.
Ragnar, the surviving four sailors, the two Hamster-men, Roly and his adopted children, the Lizard-folk slaves and the Siren children.
Waiting by the far gate, Estaban calls out, “Welcome friends. Leave all of the diamonds by the fountain”.
It’s then that the Party notice Mendez and his brothers lining the walls. These walls aren’t particularly tall. 10’ at their lowest, 20’ at their highest.
The Party notices Mendez because he calls out through gritted teeth, “Half! Half is fair. My friends deserve somethi”.
Unfortunately he doesn’t get to finish his sentence before being interrupted by Bodush’s gasp of surprise as an arrow fired by Hawkmoon glances off the back of his head. Luckily this is due to the protection of the ‘Stone skin’ spell that was still in effect from the previous battle.
Suddenly Eolar and Bodush find themselves free from Estaban’s enchantment.
There are many guards, but that’s to be expected, as they’ll be needed to protect the diamonds.
Thesis and Durin seem still baffled by their companions generosity but still follow them into the walled off courtyard.
Hawkmoon enters behind them but moves around unnoticed to the other side of the walled in area.
Mara’ch, still disguised as one of the children, enters with the entourage that the Party have accompanied or collected along their journey.
Ragnar, the surviving four sailors, the two Hamster-men, Roly and his adopted children, the Lizard-folk slaves and the Siren children.
Waiting by the far gate, Estaban calls out, “Welcome friends. Leave all of the diamonds by the fountain”.
It’s then that the Party notice Mendez and his brothers lining the walls. These walls aren’t particularly tall. 10’ at their lowest, 20’ at their highest.
The Party notices Mendez because he calls out through gritted teeth, “Half! Half is fair. My friends deserve somethi”.
Unfortunately he doesn’t get to finish his sentence before being interrupted by Bodush’s gasp of surprise as an arrow fired by Hawkmoon glances off the back of his head. Luckily this is due to the protection of the ‘Stone skin’ spell that was still in effect from the previous battle.
Suddenly Eolar and Bodush find themselves free from Estaban’s enchantment.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
The Babies on the Boat go Whaaa Whaaa Whaaa
The journey back is surprisingly uneventful. This is lucky because there’s scarcely room to swing Hawkmoon’s cat.
The Elven Box-Ship contains:
Thesis the hulking Lizard-man.
The two Lizard-folk slaves.
Durin the stout Dwarf.
Eolar the tall Half Elf.
The (thankfully) human sized Ragnar.
Bodush the Sorcerer.
Gajapan the tiny viper.
Mara’ch the slightly larger Kobold.
And his unnamed rat.
Hawkmoon the Elven Archer.
Rou the cat.
Roly (the annoyingly obese) cleric.
The two Hamster-men.
The four Sailors.
The three boys.
The four girls.
The three Siren children.
A Riding horse.
And last but not least: Meldo the donkey.
A total of thirty-one creatures in a ship designed to hold fifteen.
Still if you get hungry…
The Elven Box-Ship contains:
Thesis the hulking Lizard-man.
The two Lizard-folk slaves.
Durin the stout Dwarf.
Eolar the tall Half Elf.
The (thankfully) human sized Ragnar.
Bodush the Sorcerer.
Gajapan the tiny viper.
Mara’ch the slightly larger Kobold.
And his unnamed rat.
Hawkmoon the Elven Archer.
Rou the cat.
Roly (the annoyingly obese) cleric.
The two Hamster-men.
The four Sailors.
The three boys.
The four girls.
The three Siren children.
A Riding horse.
And last but not least: Meldo the donkey.
A total of thirty-one creatures in a ship designed to hold fifteen.
Still if you get hungry…
Friday, April 9, 2010
Evolar
Ragnar, Thesis and Durin struggle for a while to free the magical ship from the rocks.
It’s only when its free and everyone’s onboard that Bodush finally reappears.
He can’t help but smile as he asks, ‘Why didn’t you just turn it back into its box form?’
The group decision is to take the two Lizard people and the three innocent Siren children with them.
Only Eolar seemed to have any objections.
Although the Siren children are scared, Roly is happy to take responsibility for them. The two Lizard people are also glad to help keep them calm.
When Roly hears of Eolar’s desire to kill them, it just confirms his low opinion of the Elven St Cuthbertian.
It’s only when its free and everyone’s onboard that Bodush finally reappears.
He can’t help but smile as he asks, ‘Why didn’t you just turn it back into its box form?’
The group decision is to take the two Lizard people and the three innocent Siren children with them.
Only Eolar seemed to have any objections.
Although the Siren children are scared, Roly is happy to take responsibility for them. The two Lizard people are also glad to help keep them calm.
When Roly hears of Eolar’s desire to kill them, it just confirms his low opinion of the Elven St Cuthbertian.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Alternative Alignments
After the last email, I thought about what are Party would be if we used a combination of traditional and personality based alignments…
Mendez: Flamboyant Good
Thesis: Chaotic Selfish
Eolar: Lawful Rigid
Durin: Erratic Good
Hawkmoon: Cynical Neutral
Bodush: ‘I swear I’m Neutral’ Evil
Mara’ch: True Newt-ral
Ragnar: Awful Hairy.
:)
Mendez: Flamboyant Good
Thesis: Chaotic Selfish
Eolar: Lawful Rigid
Durin: Erratic Good
Hawkmoon: Cynical Neutral
Bodush: ‘I swear I’m Neutral’ Evil
Mara’ch: True Newt-ral
Ragnar: Awful Hairy.
:)
All Hail the Lizard King!
Easily breaking the chains that bound the disconcertingly attractive Lizard woman to the wall, Thesis swims back up with her through the tunnels to the surface.
Making their way back to the magical boat the Lizard woman asks Thesis the same question he had heard from the male Durin had rescued earlier.
‘Forgive me Sire, but may I ask what clan you are from?’
Thesis isn’t sure why, but he answers truthfully this time.
‘I was not born a Lizard man but instead reborn as one after dying in battle.’
On hearing this, the Lizard woman falls to her knees and bows low.
‘My King, you have returned to us!’
Making their way back to the magical boat the Lizard woman asks Thesis the same question he had heard from the male Durin had rescued earlier.
‘Forgive me Sire, but may I ask what clan you are from?’
Thesis isn’t sure why, but he answers truthfully this time.
‘I was not born a Lizard man but instead reborn as one after dying in battle.’
On hearing this, the Lizard woman falls to her knees and bows low.
‘My King, you have returned to us!’
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Genuine Imitation Lizard Skin
As Thesis powers down through the dark waters, he feels his mind start to drift.
It’s taken him over a year to grow accustomed to his new body.
His altered senses were strange to him at first, but he’s grown to like his enlarged size, armoured skin, razor-sharp teeth and enormous lungs.
He’s even gotten used to the four-foot tail!
Something is still wrong though…
He should be more than he is.
More than just a Warrior.
More than just a meat shield for the ungrateful Spellcasters.
A greater glory is calling to him…
But what?
It’s taken him over a year to grow accustomed to his new body.
His altered senses were strange to him at first, but he’s grown to like his enlarged size, armoured skin, razor-sharp teeth and enormous lungs.
He’s even gotten used to the four-foot tail!
Something is still wrong though…
He should be more than he is.
More than just a Warrior.
More than just a meat shield for the ungrateful Spellcasters.
A greater glory is calling to him…
But what?
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The Children are the Future
Roly gathers the seven remaining children around him. Despite the abundance of food and wine and the absolute safety of Bodush’s mansion, Roly doesn’t feel safe.
These adventurers seem oblivious to the suffering of others. Hawkmoon seems the coldest, treating the Hamster-men and Sailors as servants or worse.
Although the adventurers rescued all the children, other than poor Daniel, it seemed more out of challenge than concern.
Still the Were-bear, the Lizard-man and the Dwarf, did try to help.
Eolar the Half-Elf seems the most aloof. Roly has heard of St Cuthbert; He can even still remember the stories of its great navy from when he was a boy. They believe in order above all else. Order but not kindness.
Still the diamonds he’s found will partially make up for the loss of his treasure chests.
Rocking the little ones back and forth across his massive belly, Roly decides that he should stick to the Dwarf. Barbaric though he may be, at least he has a conscience.
He is also worried about the journey back to Shalalah. The Sorcerer’s spells leave him and the children unsettled and disorientated. It’s almost as if he is torn into strips while travelling through the nothingness.
The Kraken has been fed recently. Perhaps it’ll leave a ship alone?
If only they had one.
These adventurers seem oblivious to the suffering of others. Hawkmoon seems the coldest, treating the Hamster-men and Sailors as servants or worse.
Although the adventurers rescued all the children, other than poor Daniel, it seemed more out of challenge than concern.
Still the Were-bear, the Lizard-man and the Dwarf, did try to help.
Eolar the Half-Elf seems the most aloof. Roly has heard of St Cuthbert; He can even still remember the stories of its great navy from when he was a boy. They believe in order above all else. Order but not kindness.
Still the diamonds he’s found will partially make up for the loss of his treasure chests.
Rocking the little ones back and forth across his massive belly, Roly decides that he should stick to the Dwarf. Barbaric though he may be, at least he has a conscience.
He is also worried about the journey back to Shalalah. The Sorcerer’s spells leave him and the children unsettled and disorientated. It’s almost as if he is torn into strips while travelling through the nothingness.
The Kraken has been fed recently. Perhaps it’ll leave a ship alone?
If only they had one.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Reptrehensible
Thesis seethes inwardly. The smug spell-casters whisked him off Cyclops Island before he could prove his bravery.
Giants! There were giants to pit himself against!
Now instead, he finds himself stooping low to gather shiny rocks. Why is it he feels like a servant rather than a king?
When will he receive the respect he deserves?
Things need to change.
Thingsss need to change ssssoon!
Giants! There were giants to pit himself against!
Now instead, he finds himself stooping low to gather shiny rocks. Why is it he feels like a servant rather than a king?
When will he receive the respect he deserves?
Things need to change.
Thingsss need to change ssssoon!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thank the (wrong) Gods!
Eolar, Ragnar, Hawkmoon and Durin finally reform from their gaseous forms and join Bodush, Thesis, Mara'ch and the others just inside the main wall of Ape city.
They are just discusiing what to do considering the deserted state of the city when a corpulent figure emerges from one of the buildings and waddles towards the newly arrived group.
“Pelor be praised, salvation is at hand!”
Though caked in dirt and looking like he hasn’t washed in years, Eolar easily recognises the vestments of a Cleric of Pelor.
He is leading eight smaller figures who turn out to be children. The eldest is a girl around eight, the youngest, a boy of four.
The fat priest looks at Eolar joyfully. “I’d almost lost my faith! How did you find us?”
The Cleric introduces himself as ‘Roly’ and though well into middle age, has a naïve look about him.
Perhaps it's the sight of the poor orphans that causes Bodush to surprise everyone by conjuring up a magical mansion, filled with delicious hot food and staffed by invisible servants.
Everyone soon forgets their immediate troubles and despite it still being early, they all relax in safety until the next morning.
They are just discusiing what to do considering the deserted state of the city when a corpulent figure emerges from one of the buildings and waddles towards the newly arrived group.
“Pelor be praised, salvation is at hand!”
Though caked in dirt and looking like he hasn’t washed in years, Eolar easily recognises the vestments of a Cleric of Pelor.
He is leading eight smaller figures who turn out to be children. The eldest is a girl around eight, the youngest, a boy of four.
The fat priest looks at Eolar joyfully. “I’d almost lost my faith! How did you find us?”
The Cleric introduces himself as ‘Roly’ and though well into middle age, has a naïve look about him.
Perhaps it's the sight of the poor orphans that causes Bodush to surprise everyone by conjuring up a magical mansion, filled with delicious hot food and staffed by invisible servants.
Everyone soon forgets their immediate troubles and despite it still being early, they all relax in safety until the next morning.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Beaten by a Bunch of Damned Dirty Apes
Driven back by the baffling magics of the disgusting ugly man-things, the huge apes prepare themselves for another assault.
Disconcertingly though, the Party take this opportunity to make good their escape.
Eolar calls to the heavens and transforms himself, the massive Ragnar, Hawkmoon and Durin to smoke and they drift off into the air.
Bodush smirks to himself. “Only four?” he mutters under his breath.
Looking around he does a quick head count: Thesis, three sailors (two alive, one dead), and one of the freakish Hamster men.
He can do that. Just as he’s casting the spell however, the little blue Kobold, ‘Mara’ch’ sprints back into view from his hiding place.
Unable to take an extra person (regardless of his tiny size), Bodush is forced to abandon the dead sailor.
At least the apes won’t let his body go to waste.
With a flash of arcane light, they are gone.
Disconcertingly though, the Party take this opportunity to make good their escape.
Eolar calls to the heavens and transforms himself, the massive Ragnar, Hawkmoon and Durin to smoke and they drift off into the air.
Bodush smirks to himself. “Only four?” he mutters under his breath.
Looking around he does a quick head count: Thesis, three sailors (two alive, one dead), and one of the freakish Hamster men.
He can do that. Just as he’s casting the spell however, the little blue Kobold, ‘Mara’ch’ sprints back into view from his hiding place.
Unable to take an extra person (regardless of his tiny size), Bodush is forced to abandon the dead sailor.
At least the apes won’t let his body go to waste.
With a flash of arcane light, they are gone.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Pellet of the Apes
Considering the standard of the opposition, the situation is actually quite grim.
The Party (Eolar, Thesis, Bodush, Durin, Hawkmoon, Mara’ch and Ragnar) have nursed the stricken Sky-ship to Ape island where it is currently beached.
They have moved inland into the jungle interior searching for any surviving crew-members (who bailed out using assorted two-floating or singular life saver balloons).
Hawkmoon used his arcane powers to discover the locations of a few of them and the Party have so far found three Human sailors and one of the Hamster men.
When they came to the fifth location, they found a ripped harness hanging from a tree and just as they were about to start searching they came under fire from at least a score of apes throwing rocks from the tree-tops.
Despite their crude tactics of whooping and throwing, the cover from the foliage and distance grants them quite an advantage.
Only Hawkmoon seems to be making it difficult for the apes so far.
Most everyone in the Party is injured and two of the Human sailors are unconscious or worse and so is the Hamster-man.
There is a city on the other side of the island but it’s at least 25 miles away!
Also, there are still 6 humans and 9 Hamster-men missing.
Current Hit points:
Mara'ch 37
Eolar 97
Thesis 171
Durin 154
Hawkmoon 61
Bodush 47
Ragnar 104
Initiative Order:
Bodush 23
Thesis 21
Fapes 21
Dapes 20
Napes 19
Mara'ch 19
Hawkmoon 14
Ragnar 14
Durin 7
Eolar 6
Good luck!
The Party (Eolar, Thesis, Bodush, Durin, Hawkmoon, Mara’ch and Ragnar) have nursed the stricken Sky-ship to Ape island where it is currently beached.
They have moved inland into the jungle interior searching for any surviving crew-members (who bailed out using assorted two-floating or singular life saver balloons).
Hawkmoon used his arcane powers to discover the locations of a few of them and the Party have so far found three Human sailors and one of the Hamster men.
When they came to the fifth location, they found a ripped harness hanging from a tree and just as they were about to start searching they came under fire from at least a score of apes throwing rocks from the tree-tops.
Despite their crude tactics of whooping and throwing, the cover from the foliage and distance grants them quite an advantage.
Only Hawkmoon seems to be making it difficult for the apes so far.
Most everyone in the Party is injured and two of the Human sailors are unconscious or worse and so is the Hamster-man.
There is a city on the other side of the island but it’s at least 25 miles away!
Also, there are still 6 humans and 9 Hamster-men missing.
Current Hit points:
Mara'ch 37
Eolar 97
Thesis 171
Durin 154
Hawkmoon 61
Bodush 47
Ragnar 104
Initiative Order:
Bodush 23
Thesis 21
Fapes 21
Dapes 20
Napes 19
Mara'ch 19
Hawkmoon 14
Ragnar 14
Durin 7
Eolar 6
Good luck!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Hard Rocks verses Tough Nuts
Thesis hisses in frustration as another rock bounces of his toughened skull.
It’s a worry though, as it appears that Mendez’ ‘tall-tales’ might all be true.
Unbelievably the gigantic Roc was no exaggeration and now these vicious but intelligent seeming apes have proved themselves to be real.
Struggling to recollect what Mendez had told him years ago, Thesis wonders what other creatures they’re likely to encounter on this journey?
It’s a worry though, as it appears that Mendez’ ‘tall-tales’ might all be true.
Unbelievably the gigantic Roc was no exaggeration and now these vicious but intelligent seeming apes have proved themselves to be real.
Struggling to recollect what Mendez had told him years ago, Thesis wonders what other creatures they’re likely to encounter on this journey?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I’d sell my Soul for…
Realising he’s back in Febril and justifiably nervous at the thought of trusting his life to those erratic Hamster men and their flying sky-boat again, Thesis seeks out Szandor the Magnificent.
Ignoring the hustlers in the Market place, Thesis pulls his cloak over his face and hurries to the wealthier part of the ‘free’ city.
Knocking on the impressive, iron-shod door, Thesis waits for a moment before it is opened by one of the stunning young woman he’d seen before.
She is close to six-foot tall with a mass of curly, flame red hair.
“How may I help you sir?”
On Thesis’ pleas for an audience with Szandor, she escorts him upstairs.
After a few minutes, Szandor enters the sumptuous room, but his face is far less ingratiating than the last time they met.
He is escorted by two more of his beautiful servants.
“Ah, the death seeking Lizard-man. What do owe the 'pleasure' of this intrusion?”
Slightly taken aback by Szandor’s change in attitude, Thesis asks for a potion of ‘Feather fall’ and a potion of ‘Flying’.
Szandor rolls his eyes as he tugs at his jet-black goatee. “Is that all you want? You bother me with these trifles!?”
Steadying his breath he continues. “Fine. What do you propose to trade for them? Remember I’m a dealer in the occult. What magical artefacts have you got that I would be interested in? Or are you offering something else”
Thesis is silent for a moment. Although he doesn’t understand Szandor’s change in behaviour, he starts to rummage through his pack…
Ignoring the hustlers in the Market place, Thesis pulls his cloak over his face and hurries to the wealthier part of the ‘free’ city.
Knocking on the impressive, iron-shod door, Thesis waits for a moment before it is opened by one of the stunning young woman he’d seen before.
She is close to six-foot tall with a mass of curly, flame red hair.
“How may I help you sir?”
On Thesis’ pleas for an audience with Szandor, she escorts him upstairs.
After a few minutes, Szandor enters the sumptuous room, but his face is far less ingratiating than the last time they met.
He is escorted by two more of his beautiful servants.
“Ah, the death seeking Lizard-man. What do owe the 'pleasure' of this intrusion?”
Slightly taken aback by Szandor’s change in attitude, Thesis asks for a potion of ‘Feather fall’ and a potion of ‘Flying’.
Szandor rolls his eyes as he tugs at his jet-black goatee. “Is that all you want? You bother me with these trifles!?”
Steadying his breath he continues. “Fine. What do you propose to trade for them? Remember I’m a dealer in the occult. What magical artefacts have you got that I would be interested in? Or are you offering something else”
Thesis is silent for a moment. Although he doesn’t understand Szandor’s change in behaviour, he starts to rummage through his pack…
Monday, November 30, 2009
A Debt Settled
Despite Mendez and Thesis’ lack of faith, they are well regarded by the St Cuthbert Paladins and are quickly ushered in to see Lejon.
“How can I be of service?” inquires the extremely tall and equally good-looking Paladin.
Mendez answers quickly, “My Dwarven friend here needs bringing back from the dead.”
“Surely the Elf Eolar can do that for you?”
“True, but I’d rather he was raised without any lose to his memory or essence.”
“Ah, I see. You want me to organise a ‘True resurrection’. But why should I do that?”
Mendez grimaces. He knew Lejon would be difficult but he ploughs on anyway.
“Because I will pay your church 27,000gp and because you personally owe us a debt for saving High Patriarch Rothgart.”
Lejon squirms in his seat.
“True enough. If I organise this for you though, I expect you never to mention this debt again. We shall be square.”
Mensez nods. Although often unsung, the Dwarf had steadfastly protected every one of them. Durin was owed a debt by his friends and this was a suitable act of gratitude.
It takes three days to organise and carry out the spell.
Neither Mendez or Thesis are allowed to be present during the ceremony, but trust is not an issue here.
On the fourth day, a grinning and surprisingly clean Durin is returned to them.
“How can I be of service?” inquires the extremely tall and equally good-looking Paladin.
Mendez answers quickly, “My Dwarven friend here needs bringing back from the dead.”
“Surely the Elf Eolar can do that for you?”
“True, but I’d rather he was raised without any lose to his memory or essence.”
“Ah, I see. You want me to organise a ‘True resurrection’. But why should I do that?”
Mendez grimaces. He knew Lejon would be difficult but he ploughs on anyway.
“Because I will pay your church 27,000gp and because you personally owe us a debt for saving High Patriarch Rothgart.”
Lejon squirms in his seat.
“True enough. If I organise this for you though, I expect you never to mention this debt again. We shall be square.”
Mensez nods. Although often unsung, the Dwarf had steadfastly protected every one of them. Durin was owed a debt by his friends and this was a suitable act of gratitude.
It takes three days to organise and carry out the spell.
Neither Mendez or Thesis are allowed to be present during the ceremony, but trust is not an issue here.
On the fourth day, a grinning and surprisingly clean Durin is returned to them.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thesis and the Swordweld
Thesis found himself at the foot of a 200ft escarpment that formed a natural fortification for the city of Braemar. Looking up it was clear to see that the city was in decline and virtual ruin. Years ago, in his grandfather's day this was an important and proud city with a vibrant community and impressive army.
However, that had all changed during the most bloody years of the goblin wars. The hordes had hit the city time after time, each time depleting the city's resources a little more until the fateful final seige where the Swordweld of Braemar had been victorious but had suffered tragic losses, not least, one of their greatest fighters Traesal Swordweld, Thesis' grandfather.
He made his way over to the far end of the escarpment to the holy grounds, to the place where his grandfather was buried. To his astonishment, where there should have been a simple grave, instead he found a desecrated hole. There was a temple at the head of the cemetery, and entering he found two priests and started to find out a little of what happened here over recent years. Recently goblins had begun to raid the area again and on one of these had ruined Traesal's grave and stolen his sword.
It was clear that the memory of his grandfather was strong and had inspired a new breed of the Braemar Swordweld. They explained that they were going to raid another of the outlying goblin settlements and had planned to recover the sword. The timing was perfect and Thesis vowed to avenge his grandfather and recover the sword.
Approching the goblin stonghold in the feint light of early morning, they could see that they were not expected. Thesis sent a small troupe of 16 men to the north to deal with the threat from that direction and a similar sized group to the south. Thesis took the remainder of the men on to the main camp. He could see the leader's hut and made straight for it. Quickly dispatching the guards, they broke into the main hut.
The leader was unprepared but he quickly called on his goblins to engage. A simple fight quickly turned into a messy ruck. More goblins appeared continuously and they seemed to have better than normal weapons and strength as well as the support of magic users. Fire quickly overtook the main part of town and the fight was pushed into the hills.
Thesis looked about him and realised he had lost more than two thirds of his men, but the end was in sight. He found the leader and engaged him directly, Thesis's mighty sword swinging at goblin flesh. No goblin could ever be a match for the Lizard-man's wild strength.
Bloody and weary Thesis and the small surviving group of 20 young Swordveld marched back triumphant to Braemar to a rapturous welcome. Feasting in Thesis honour lasted 4 days and at the end of it a ceremony saw the great sword returned to the people to be displayed forever in the high hall.
Thesis was presented with a ceremonial helmet made of gold and platinum and encrusted with jewels. But this was nothing compared to the pride he felt at finally being able to live up to his family name.
However, that had all changed during the most bloody years of the goblin wars. The hordes had hit the city time after time, each time depleting the city's resources a little more until the fateful final seige where the Swordweld of Braemar had been victorious but had suffered tragic losses, not least, one of their greatest fighters Traesal Swordweld, Thesis' grandfather.
He made his way over to the far end of the escarpment to the holy grounds, to the place where his grandfather was buried. To his astonishment, where there should have been a simple grave, instead he found a desecrated hole. There was a temple at the head of the cemetery, and entering he found two priests and started to find out a little of what happened here over recent years. Recently goblins had begun to raid the area again and on one of these had ruined Traesal's grave and stolen his sword.
It was clear that the memory of his grandfather was strong and had inspired a new breed of the Braemar Swordweld. They explained that they were going to raid another of the outlying goblin settlements and had planned to recover the sword. The timing was perfect and Thesis vowed to avenge his grandfather and recover the sword.
Approching the goblin stonghold in the feint light of early morning, they could see that they were not expected. Thesis sent a small troupe of 16 men to the north to deal with the threat from that direction and a similar sized group to the south. Thesis took the remainder of the men on to the main camp. He could see the leader's hut and made straight for it. Quickly dispatching the guards, they broke into the main hut.
The leader was unprepared but he quickly called on his goblins to engage. A simple fight quickly turned into a messy ruck. More goblins appeared continuously and they seemed to have better than normal weapons and strength as well as the support of magic users. Fire quickly overtook the main part of town and the fight was pushed into the hills.
Thesis looked about him and realised he had lost more than two thirds of his men, but the end was in sight. He found the leader and engaged him directly, Thesis's mighty sword swinging at goblin flesh. No goblin could ever be a match for the Lizard-man's wild strength.
Bloody and weary Thesis and the small surviving group of 20 young Swordveld marched back triumphant to Braemar to a rapturous welcome. Feasting in Thesis honour lasted 4 days and at the end of it a ceremony saw the great sword returned to the people to be displayed forever in the high hall.
Thesis was presented with a ceremonial helmet made of gold and platinum and encrusted with jewels. But this was nothing compared to the pride he felt at finally being able to live up to his family name.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)