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Admin Forums => Archives => Strangers in a Strange Land => Topic started by: samwise7 on September 12, 2012, 02:45:00 AM

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on September 12, 2012, 02:45:00 AM

This thread will be where in character things are said, actions are stated.  Please put dice rolls in the OOC thread, and any out of character chatter as well.  If you must include some short OOC statements please put them in some parentheses  ((like so)).  Anything that is more than a line of text should probably go in the OOC thread.

Here is an example post:

Thalim walks over to the strange looking plants and bends down to sniff them.

"I've never seen anything quite like this thing...  I wonder if it is edible?"

((Survival Skill +12))

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on September 12, 2012, 04:01:50 AM

You awake in a strange land with no memory of who you were or why you are here.  What strange mysteries does this place hold, and will you survive them?  You are surrounded by 4 feet tall grass that is greenish-purple in color.  In the distance to the North you see what appears to be ancient and strange ruins, but you will have to get a closer look to be sure. 

Around you are various strangers that you know nothing about; most of them look unfamiliar to you.  There is one individual for each of you however that you seem to feel is someone that is meant to help and aid you in your travels.  This is a vague and fuzzy thought however, but they seem loyal. 

You can't remember your own name, or anything about your past life before you awoke here.  All you know about your past is what you can gleam from what race & sex you are, and what items you have on your person.  You do possess certain abilities and skills however and you know them like the back of your hand. 

There are strange four-legged flightless birds that are mounted with saddles, and it seems every one of you has one of these bizarre mounts.  They seem loyal in their own fashion... but slightly ornery as well.

((We will start when characters are made)).

[attachment[/attachment]

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 07, 2012, 02:04:40 AM

A warm and moist wind blows and it has a smell of sickeningly sweet pollen to it. 

((The game has begun, post at will)).

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Fidoric on October 07, 2012, 12:57:01 PM

"Well met everybody. My name is... That's funny, it seems I can't remember my own name.
Every one is OK ? Anyone knows anything about this place ? ".
Eneis have a quick look around to assess the situation and try to clear his mind.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Viktyr Korimir on October 08, 2012, 02:35:05 AM

The lie came unbidden to his mind; has he been in this situation before? "I am known as Adahn."

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 08, 2012, 12:45:59 PM

The large sun above has a slight red glow to it that seems strange for some reason.  It is hot, and some sweat is starting to form on your brows.  There is a sudden chirping of insects, and a small cloud of them take to the air when you first begin to talk.  The thrum of their multicolored wings sounds like an army beating on small drums. 

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 10, 2012, 01:33:41 AM

The sound of what you assume is a large gong can be heard coming from the ruined structure in the distance.  It gongs 3 times and then it is silent.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Viktyr Korimir on October 10, 2012, 08:27:51 AM

"We'll need shelter soon. I'm going to investigate those ruins... you are welcome to join me." Adahn waits politely.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 10, 2012, 01:12:14 PM

"Hm..." says the Halfling, "I also know not where we are or how we came to be here. However, before we go haring off to explore the unknown, it might be worthwhile to at least take an inventory of our belongings, as that may give us some clue as to our identities."

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 10, 2012, 03:09:08 PM

Your servants seem to take the hint, and start opening up their packs to reveal what they all have.  There are lots of various items of equipment, some food, and other sundry items.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Viktyr Korimir on October 11, 2012, 03:39:23 AM

"We are all armed. That suggests either military or aristocratic backgrounds. We're all carrying food rations and other traveling gear... are we adventurers, perhaps? Scouts?"

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 11, 2012, 02:16:31 PM

"Hmm.... I am.... a student of wisdom and I am on..... a journey of enlightenment. I think. Details about myself are hazy, at best, but I feel that I follow a path that unites my body, mind, and soul. And while I carry a dagger and a baton, I feel that I need them not to defend myself."

The Halfling looks towards the one human who is near him and who seems intent upon helping him. "I feel a certain connection to you, like you are my responsibility. Be sure to stay back, away from any danger we may encounter. I shall protect you."

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 11, 2012, 03:42:48 PM

The swarm of insects seems to be slowly circling high above you all in the sky.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Fidoric on October 13, 2012, 07:50:45 AM

"It seems we all have hazy memories. Maybe this strange grass has something to do with it. I know some mushrooms that could do such a thing...
Nevertheless, I feel confident. We all look like decent folks and I feel the good spirits smile upon us.
I agree with you. Let's check and pack our gear and then go to those ruins. They are inhabited so we might be able to collect some pieces of information."

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Arnwald on October 13, 2012, 04:00:50 PM

Ag-Nor grabs his equipment hastily while keeping an eye on the band of strangers ; his gaze displays both confidence and caution...

"I do not remember my name either it seems. Perhaps these ruins within sight hold some sort of a key to this mystery. Although it pains me to admit it aloud, I agree with the elf. Let us press on".

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 13, 2012, 10:09:00 PM

The gong makes one more sound and it is then silent. 

A hissing like sound can be heard above from the insects.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 14, 2012, 12:39:32 AM

"Hmm.... I think that there may be some connection between that gong that we hear, and those insects overhead. I suggest that we head for those ruins quickly, and that we shall hopefully find some sort of shelter there"

Ewyn quickly, but neatly gathers his things, encouraging the others to do the same, and then jumps on the mount that appears to be his, and waits for the others to do the same.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Viktyr Korimir on October 14, 2012, 06:16:36 AM

'Adahn' prepares his gear and mounts his own giant bird.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 14, 2012, 12:28:33 PM

The hissing sound of the insects turns into a short buzzing sound that they repeat quickly.  They seem to be moving now in more chaotic patterns though most of them are still circling your position.  The dark cloud is now descending upon your current location.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Fidoric on October 14, 2012, 01:15:07 PM

Let's go quickly. I would hate to make my way through such a swarm. I have already be stung by bees and it was no fun. Don't want to test it again.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 15, 2012, 01:45:53 PM

As some of you begin to move off towards the ruins, the insect swarm follows you and slowly flies down closer and closer to your group.  Upon looking at them closer it seems that there is a mist surrounding the swarm, and that the insects seem to have stingers.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Arnwald on October 15, 2012, 10:27:42 PM

Without uttering a word, Ag-Nor jumps on his mount and does his best to direct the strange creature towards the ruins... with haste!

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: samwise7 on October 15, 2012, 11:35:43 PM

Your group mounts up (with their retainers) and heads off in the direction of the ruins.  The insects give chase, but your mounts are faster than they are even when loaded down by two riders.  You reach the base of a large stylized pyramid that has stone steps that lead up to a high surface that has what appears to be a large gong.  No creatures or humanoids are visible.  There does not appear to be any entrances to the structure at first glance.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: Fidoric on October 16, 2012, 10:10:22 AM

"I can easily imagine this structure to have spiritual meaning. Maybe we could be cautious in our approach. I suggest walking around to see if there are any signs of activity or maybe a clue related to this pyramid's function. I will also peer into the spirit world to see if the good spirits can lend us some help or avoid us to make a dire mistake. For example, those may be sacred grounds not to be entered with weapons or things like that."

Ceilen uses his second sight in complement of his worldly senses to gather as much information as possible before going any further.

Title: Strangers IC Thread
Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 16, 2012, 03:54:53 PM

"I also suggest that we take a turn around this structure to make sure that there are no other entrances or other smaller structures."

Ewyn looks back the way that they had come to see if the insects are still coming.

(http://www.firehawkgames.biz/forum/Themes/MGames/images/dice.gif) Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on October 16, 2012, 07:49:40 PM Before going, Ceillen adds casually: "So, Ceillen is my name... I wonder how such a lovely name may have slip from my mind... Nevermind. We will see to it later. Back to our current concerns." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 17, 2012, 05:49:15 PM The Shaman sees a strange spirit form that is standing on top of the ruined pyramid.  It is utterly dark with only a faint outline.  [attachment[/attachment] Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on October 18, 2012, 02:35:48 PM "We are not alone. There's someone over there", says Ceilen wile pointing at the top of the pyramid. "I cant' be sure, but it seems to be... dark. Not necessarily malevolent though, maybe only afraid or angry. I would have to converse with it to learn more. I suggest caution as we go on. I will have to watch it carefully. Be prepared for anything but try to avoid being overtly agressive." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 18, 2012, 04:02:21 PM The swarm of insects is now heading quickly at the group.  You think they will be all over you in a matter of a minute or so. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 18, 2012, 05:18:59 PM Ewyn takes a closer look at the insects to see if there is anything unusual about them Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Arnwald on October 18, 2012, 10:31:43 PM Ag-Nor watches the actions of the group with a nervous eye, all the while reaching for his trusty battle-axe... "The swarm is almost upon us ; I suggest we not linger in the open... We stand a better chance if we stay as a group ; I favor moving to a more tactically favorable position", he says, while pointing towards the ruins... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 19, 2012, 03:02:58 PM Ewyn notes that the insects are strange in shape and size, but the only really dangerous thing about them seems to be their stingers.  Thinking about being caught in the middle of the swarm makes his skin crawl.  He can almost feel their little legs wandering over his skin before the stinger comes down like a malevolent hammer. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 20, 2012, 01:58:28 AM Ewyn looks around quickly, to see if he can find a defensible location to limit the number of insects that might be able to reach him. As he does this,  he motions to the human who seems to be following him and says, "I strongly suggest lighting a couple of torches. It may help to keep those insects off us. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 20, 2012, 02:36:43 AM Ewyn's retainer lights up his torch and starts to wave it defensively in the air... even though there is nothing near to him yet. The only obviously noticeable area that could perform as some sort of shelter from the insects is a small caved in portion of the ruins.  It looks like it is roughly 20 feet up the structure via the stairs and then off to the right.  There would be 4 "walls" but the sky would be open to attack from the angry swarm.  Perhaps the torches could keep the bees at bay... or perhaps not.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 20, 2012, 03:22:01 AM Ewyn points to the space beside the stairs and says, "Perhaps that would be a good spot to defend ourselves from these insects" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on October 20, 2012, 08:27:15 AM Ceillen says a quick but sincere prayer to appease the spirits that may linger there with a special thought for the dark one atop the ruin. "Dear spirits that dwell in there, know that we do not mean any offense. We seek shelter from a mundane threat and respectfully hope you will let us in." Ceillen lights a torch too and look for some stuff too burn. Maybe starting a fire could help, especially if it makes smoke just out of our shelter. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 20, 2012, 02:31:08 PM When Ceillen says his prayer the thing atop the ruin looks directly at him, and he gets an intense feeling of cold and hatred that starts where his feet touch the ground and then creeps up his body like a slow crawling worm.  The spirit atop of the tower looks at the gong and it is struck 3 times by what you assume is its arm.  Once more it looks at Ceillen and shakes its head slowly.  Then it descends into the ruins and can be seen no more. The insects were nearly upon you... but now the swarm starts to disperse and they once again vanish into the tall grasses. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 21, 2012, 05:03:27 PM Ewyn looks at the dispersing insects and sighs in relief. "Any opinions on what we shall do next?" he asks. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on October 22, 2012, 12:02:37 PM There is an angry spirit within those ruins. It is the one who tolls the gong. It is full of hate at the moment and do not want us to go inside. I don't know how you feel about this, but my duty is to make whatever I can to appease this spirit. Consider it a victim of an overwhelming feeling that has changed its personality. Most certainly, we could find what makes him angry inside and maybe, only maybe, we could be able to do something about it. I think it's worth  try. So I say we should find a way in. Ceillen. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Arnwald on October 22, 2012, 10:54:22 PM "A sound proposal. Let us make our way towards the ruins and find a way to appease this spirit... I do not wish to face more of its minions..." says Ag-Nor while guiding his mount towards the broken structure. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 23, 2012, 03:40:38 AM "Agreed, one cannot move forward if one's spirit is tied to the past. Let us help him if we can." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on October 23, 2012, 03:12:41 PM The ruined structure's base is covered with lots of dirt and soil so some parts are obstructed from view.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Arnwald on October 24, 2012, 11:35:23 PM Ag-Nor grips his battle-axe firmly and inches forward, alert and ready... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on October 26, 2012, 11:47:07 PM The Halfling takes a deep breath, and straightens his pack, then turns to the human who has been following him, "Why don you stay out here and guard our mounts while we explore the interior?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on October 27, 2012, 03:30:17 PM Aldor - Ceillen's retainer, casts a quick glance around for a way in while standing protectively behind the shaman. As nothing stands out, he resumes his vigil and pay close attention to Ceillen's immediate surrounding, knowing that the shaman may become oblivious of the real world when peering into the Astral. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 02, 2012, 03:35:53 PM The Halfling begins looking around the nearby ruins, looking for some sort of entrance... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 02, 2012, 09:22:11 PM As there is no obvious entrance, Ceillen follows the small fellow and looks for any variation in the surroundings (herb that grows higher or is not of the same color...). Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 03, 2012, 02:29:44 AM The vegetation on the ruins seems to be pretty uniform, though there are plants here and there that aren't abundant.  There are flowers mostly of blues, greens, and yellows.  None of the plants look familiar however, and Ceillen notes that this place they have found themselves in may be a totally different place than where they are from. Some of your fellow travelers seem to be standing idle, looking through their backpacks, etc. while the rest of you look around the structure.  No one as of yet has found an entrance, if any truly exists.  The gong on the top of the pyramid has yet to be investigated. In the far East storm clouds are forming, changing the color of the sky into a dull charcoal color. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 03, 2012, 02:14:14 PM The Halfling says, "I am going to check out that gong up there. Who is coming along?" And then he begins climbing up towards the gong, going carefully, along the edge of the steps (off to one side of the steps whenever possible), keeping an eye out for traps or other problems. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 03, 2012, 06:55:02 PM "I am with you my friend. Maybe we will find a way in up there. Please be cautious when we reach the top of the pyramid as that gong seems to be tied to a dark spirit. I should sense it if he tries something against us but nonetheless, beware any strange feeling you might experience. Some spirits may produce physical effects but some others would rather influence your mind. Aldor, please stay a step behind me. If this spirits emerge from the ruins, I am better equipped to deal with it. If anything more mundane should happen, your help will be most welcome though." Ceillen begins to climb with his staff firmly in hand. Aldor follows closely behind, his club and shield ready for anything, his eyes continually scan the area around, not only the top of the ruins. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Viktyr Korimir on November 04, 2012, 09:49:41 AM Adahn takes his sword off his back. "I shall accompany you. In case more mundane threats appear." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 12, 2012, 01:29:15 PM The gong appears to have some sort of mechanical device attached to the base of it.  It seems that this may indeed be a way into the structure.  It seems like it has a complex yet simple opening lever mechanism. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 12, 2012, 02:17:36 PM The Halfling pokes around the mechanism to see if he can get it to open... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 13, 2012, 04:44:48 AM The halfling messes with the lever and in the process the lever breaks.  The gears spin though it seems like they are off track.  The gong and the mechanism beneath it begin to fall... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 13, 2012, 12:59:43 PM The Halfling jumps out of the way of the gong since it is so much larger than he is.  [Body Shift: +5 to DEF, base DEF 20; total DEF 25] Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 14, 2012, 03:04:28 AM The Gong appears like it will miss the Halfling and tumble down the outside of the pyramid unless someone stops it. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 14, 2012, 11:27:06 PM Ceillen is busy avoiding being rolled over by the massive gong. Aldor try to push it by its flat side when it passes by if possible. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 15, 2012, 06:12:35 PM The gong rolls down the many partially broken steps and as it smashes into each one a terrible sound can be heard that seems to warp time and reality itself, or at least your perceptions of it.  Your senses are horribly altered for the briefest of moments each time it hits a stair, but the effect will haunt you till you take your last breath.  Each thunderous sound made by the crashing gong sounds as if some long forgotten god suddenly died, or some orb in the heavens suddenly broke asunder.  After the gong settles on the grass at the base of the pyramid the silence seems to be a real thing after the nightmarish cacophony that was before it.  The world seems changed in some way; changed into something that can never return to what it once was... and this leaves you all with an intense feeling of regretful sadness though you don't understand why you would feel this way.  The event leaves you all shaken, though some will handle this differently than others of course. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 15, 2012, 06:53:14 PM Ceillen whisper a short but heart-felt prayer of atonement for the nearby spirits who may have been disturbed by this momentous event. Following that, he cast a glance at the spirit world to check if any spirit is lingering around and has been unsettled or angered by the sound of the gong, especially the previous dark one. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 16, 2012, 01:25:38 PM The Halfling takes a few deep breaths to center himself, and then peers into the opening where the gong used to be. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 16, 2012, 02:57:30 PM A dark foreboding vertical shaft leads downwards into utter darkness.  The walls seem like they could be descended since there are small ledges between each row of large stones, but there is no way of knowing how far down a fall would be if you lost your grip.  There is however some of the remains of the gong's mechanism that seem to be be stable and secure if you wanted to tie a bunch of ropes together and tie them to it. The gong lies on the ground like a forgotten dream, and it slowly dematerializes and fades into nothingness or perhaps into some other plane of existence next to this one.  The grass beneath it is stained black as if they were burned by intense heat. Ceillen sees a few spirits that seem to be dragging themselves by their hands and fingers away from the base of the pyramid.  They seem like they are in pain, and they seem to be unresponsive to any prayers or words.  As they crawl away pitifully they sink beneath the surface of the grasslands and are lost to view.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 18, 2012, 09:06:34 PM That's not good. Something here seems to hurt the spirits around us. That makes a good reason for me to investigate those ruins in search of that thing (the gong?). I will not ask the good spirits for protection or guidance within the ruins except if there are no other solutions. Shall we climb down ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on November 21, 2012, 01:33:33 AM The Halfling responds, " I think that we should, but I also think that perhaps it is better if those who are attached to us remain out here and guard our mounts." I shall get the rope that my companion has in his equipment so that we can descend further into this mystery" The Halfling then heads down the stairs, upon reaching the bottom, he tells all who are there, "Please lend me your ropes. We are going to descend into the pyramid to explore." And speaking only to his companion, "Please remain out here to guard the mounts. I am sure that one or two of the others shall remain out here with you." Once he has the ropes, he heads on back up the stairs. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on November 21, 2012, 10:43:52 AM Ceillen :"That seems to me a good way to go. Aldor, would you mind staying here with our mounts ?". Aldor agrees with Ceillen and begins setting a camp. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on November 21, 2012, 04:59:04 PM The rest of the group seems to be in a silent debate about what to do next while the more active members are staring down into the darkened shaft wondering what awaits them in the depths below... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 01, 2012, 06:34:20 PM Those at the top of the vertical shaft attempt to descend into the unknown. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on December 03, 2012, 01:08:54 PM Before attempting to descend, the Halfling takes a rock and tosses it into the abyss, listening carefully to see if he determine approximately how deep the hole is until it reaches the bottom. Once that is done, he starts tying the ropes together into one long rope, making sure to have 2 people tug on either side of any knots to make sure that they are tight and won't slip. He then does the same thing to the end that he ties to the left over machinery. Once that is done, he tosses the free end into the pit, and then slowly begins climbing down. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 03, 2012, 05:49:19 PM Ceillen and the Halfling attempt to see down into the darkness and it seems to continue past where they can see.  When the Halfling drops his stone it falls for a long while, but he can't really guess with any accurate means just how long.  At the end however he hears some sort of splatting sound and then nothing. The rope seems to be extra securely tied together.  The two intrepid adventurers start to climb down the rope.  About 30 feet down they both lose their footing and their grip and fall, bouncing off of the sides of the vertical shaft as they plummet down into the unknown. They make a last minute attempt to slow themselves or to catch the rope... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 05, 2012, 04:18:40 PM The Halfling manages to slow himself with the rope just enough for his associate to grab him by the ankle.  The Halfling is then able to grab hold with a firm grip so that he isn't falling any longer. The two of them are now holding onto the rope with a faint darkness above and black darkness below.  The rope is swaying from the movement and the world is silent and seems to have a feeling of evil that caresses it softly like a murderous lover.  All is not right with the world. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on December 05, 2012, 06:00:27 PM We should have dropped a lit torch in the shaft... Well, I don't know for you my friend, but my arms begin to shake from exhaustion. I suggest we hurry down the rope lest I have no strength left and... I am sure you don't need a picture. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on December 08, 2012, 02:37:51 PM Yes, perhaps a torch would have been wise. But let us not hurry too much, ere we lose our grips again... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 08, 2012, 03:05:50 PM The Halfling and his associate Ceillen manage to climb down the rope to the end of it without falling to their early demise.  There is a palpable sense of relief when you actually reach the ground and can finally relax your hands.  They perhaps wonder if leaving the rest of their traveling companions was a wise idea.  They are standing in a darkened area but Ceillen can see a little into that darkness.  He sees that there are 3 separate ways to travel down.  One to the North, one to the Southwest and one to the South East.  The floor is made out of some spongy moist material that seems to resemble flesh, but it is made out of large sections.  There are strange symbols on the walls that are written 2 feet from the ground and they go off into the distance in all 3 of the tunnels.  These symbols use a lot of triangles in various different angles and in various numbers of them.  There is a smell of ancient dirft and it seems that the floor hasn't been touched for perhaps hundreds or thousands of years.  It smells perhaps of old death, and forgotten lives if such a thing can have a smell.  You feel like you are once again in a different world, as of traveling down the vertical shaft has transported you elsewhere, and that elsewhere has different natural laws than your own world. What lies down these paths, and are you willing to traverse the unknown?      Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on December 09, 2012, 04:00:05 PM I guess we'll worry about getting back to the top later... Too bad, there is no way to the left. An old saying in my village states that left is always right. Those triangles don't mean anything to me so any way is as good as the next. Do you have any preference my friend? And how may I call you by the way. "My friend" is... friendly enough I guess but not personal. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 10, 2012, 06:09:20 PM Your characters remember their names and more about their past but they still can't remember how you got here in this different world. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on December 12, 2012, 03:50:20 PM "my friend?? my friend! I remember something! I used to have a good friend, he called me 'Ewyn'! My name is apparently Ewyn. As for "way to the left", if we stand facing the center tunnel then that one (Ewyn points to the northern tunnel) is to the left. Thus, in order to follow your old saying, we should go that direction" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on December 14, 2012, 01:10:16 PM I like the way you think, Ewyn. Let's go North then. I cannot see anything at the moment. But I suggest we light up a torch before going. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 17, 2012, 12:30:47 PM A cool moist wind comes from the Northern passage and carries with it the smell of ancient death. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 23, 2012, 01:15:35 PM Those outside the temple make a base camp in hopes that the other two will return eventually. Inside the structure the two begin to travel down the chosen tunnel.  They walk on the strangely soft floor for several minutes. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on December 27, 2012, 03:36:07 PM Ceillin notices a huge slab of rock that seems to be precariously balanced on a ceiling beam.  It seems like it has been set up to fall on those that disturb it.  When he gets closer he notices that it seems like a rudimentary trap has been set up with loose floor stones that when disturbed will loosen some wall supports in the wall which in turn lower the beam, letting the stone slab fall heavily upon the unwary traveler.   In other words, don't step there. Further up ahead you see a very dusty pile of what looks like some humanoid of some type. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on December 27, 2012, 05:27:17 PM Ceillen's steps carefully around the dangerous area. "Let's have a look at the remains of that poor fellow. Maybe whispers from the past will tell us tales of our present." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on December 29, 2012, 04:49:43 PM Ewyn follows Ceillen's lead... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 01, 2013, 02:45:44 AM Under the dust you see a humanoid with a very strong bone structure in its face, with several large facial bones that stick out of its face.  It seems like this is the way it looks, and not some result of violence.  You guess that it would stand about 6 feet tall, and weigh roughly 300 pounds as its body gives the impression that it was once much fuller with body moister in life.  It has several plates of natural armor on its chest, arms, and legs. A well-worn by sturdy cloak is folded up under its head, as if it laid down to sleep.  It has no armor of any kind, but it does have what looks like a curved sword with a sharp smooth edge on one side and a jagged serrated edge on the other.  It looks like it could be wielded in one hand by a human-sized being (two handed for those of smaller stature).  There is also a matching dagger that is shaped in the same way.  Their handles seem to be made from some sturdy red leather, and the blades' coloring is of a darker metal.  It also appears that on the fingers of the creature there is a silver ring with a black metal line that spirals around the band.   Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 01, 2013, 11:20:33 AM A corpse without proper ceremonial burial is not a good thing. However, it's passing seems to have been peaceful enough and neither its remains nor its belongings have been disturbed for  a long time. That shows that no scavenger are prowling around either on two or four legs. Just to get sure that this poor spirit does not linger in the area, Ceillen utters some words of solace and cast a quick glance to the spirit world. He does not touch the corpse. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 01, 2013, 11:44:40 AM Nothing is visible in the spirit world.  If it has a lost spirit, it isn't here right now.  Perhaps it moved on to another plane. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 01, 2013, 04:03:18 PM Ewyn squats down next to the corpse, inspecting it from several angles, without ever touching it. He is looking for wounds or other obvious causes of death. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 06, 2013, 02:25:29 AM There are no obvious wounds.  It looks like it went to sleep and never woke up. These are what the symbols look like on the walls.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBxNAed0OCY Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 06, 2013, 12:22:27 PM What do you think about this, Ewyn. Do you see anything useful around ? Though I would rather let this corpse undisturbed, it will certainly not miss its things... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 06, 2013, 04:26:49 PM "Hmm.... It appears that he simply went to sleep and never woke up. To me, that suggests several possibilities. There may be a creature that drains people in their sleep, such as the spirit creature you saw previously, or some sort of toxin that prevents those who fall asleep from ever waking up once you fall asleep in these chambers. I would strongly suggest that we not tarry down here long enough to test either supposition. Let us explore a little further and then return to the surface and attempt to find some sort of civilization." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 07, 2013, 06:43:19 PM You speak words of wisdom my friend. Let's go. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 08, 2013, 01:54:59 AM The temperature in the area where you are standing suddenly drops 10 degrees or so. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 08, 2013, 06:06:05 PM Looking around quickly, Ewyn says, "I fear that this sudden chill harkens the arrival of something sinister." Ewyn then prepares himself for possible combat (drawing weapons, etc.). Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 08, 2013, 07:33:24 PM Ceillen assume a defensive stance, his staff in the right hand, the left hand half raised, ready to direct the spiritual energies into an astral bolt. Ewyn, I am able to defend myself in a brawl. However, know that my spiritual powers have strengths and weaknesses. I will be able to smite spirits but my bolts are useless against undeads. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 09, 2013, 02:35:19 PM From the ground below black smoke-like tendrils attempt to wrap around your legs and feet.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 09, 2013, 02:53:07 PM Ewyn moves away from the smoke, back towards someplace (in the direction of their ropes and the entrance) where there is a little bit more room to maneuver. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 13, 2013, 02:32:25 AM Ceillen moves slightly and attempts to cast a spell... that fizzles and produces no effect.  The smoky tendrils attempt to attack both Ceillen and Ewyn by smoky trails follow their failed attempts.  Wherever they nearly hit drops several degrees in temperature.  They just seem to be supernaturally cold. Ewyn adjusts and backs up slightly. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 15, 2013, 04:14:31 PM Another failed spell from Ceillen fizzles into nothingness.  Ewyn dodges and attempts to avoid the cold smoky tendrils. The dark icy tentacles once again attempt to attack but flail wildly, missing their targets. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 16, 2013, 12:59:05 PM Ceillen and Ewyn both attempt to produce magical effects and fail in the attempt. The tendrils snap and twist through the air and one of the seemingly random flailing smoky arms wraps like a whip around Ewyn's left arm.  It feels like a rope of infernal ice that pulses with a dark power. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 18, 2013, 03:31:23 PM Ewyn finds some inner resource of mental will and resists much of the oily, cold, and evil feeling that seems to swim through his soul.  He does feel drained however of some vital part of himself... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 18, 2013, 03:40:16 PM "Beware! These smoky tentacles are trying to drain our vitality and quite possibly our Souls!" Ewyn then attempts another casting of Empty Hand, "ChoZhu!" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 18, 2013, 06:17:59 PM Ceillen, at first thinking of using his staff, changes his mind after Ewyn's shout ! Once more, he gathers the spiritual energies from the Spirit World and try to hit his opponent with another Astral bolt. As his spell sparkles eerily but harmlessly, he whispers a curse and definitively changes his course of action. He grips his staff strongly and will now try to free his friend by bashing the grasping tentacle so that they both can flee. "Ewyn ! Be steadfast ! I won't let you down ! This creature will taste my staff !" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 19, 2013, 03:23:12 AM Ceillen swings and misses horribly. Ewyn's spell smashes into the tentacles that are wrapped around his arm and it lets go in a way that seems like it vanishes into thin air.  It reforms with the rest of the tentacles but it seems more wispy somehow. The tentacles seem to be weaker now, and the smoke isn't as thick or dark.  They swing weakly... and then vanish. Ewyn feels like a part of him is somehow missing.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 23, 2013, 03:06:52 PM The hallway with the strange pictographs running the length of the wall continues on into the darkness before you. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 23, 2013, 06:06:51 PM Ewyn looks at his companion, then says, "Perhaps we should retreat back to the surface, and try to convince one of our other companions to accompany us back down here. Perhaps also get our other charges as well. From the looks of things, this will take longer than we thought, and we may need the aide as we continue onwards." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 23, 2013, 06:48:14 PM You speak words of wisdom Ewyn. This is a huge complex and... unsafe. Let's go back to this damned shaft and, if the Good Spirits are with us, our rope will lead us to our friends. I only hope that climbing up is easier than down. Our descent was a little bit too eventful for my taste. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 26, 2013, 02:43:50 PM The small group returns to the vertical shaft without any problems... but there is this uneasy feeling as if someone is watching your every move.  Ceilen thinks he gets glimpses of what could have been a spirit beneath the floor at one point but it is gone almost instantly.  You find your rope right where you left it, but there is a dark handprint 5 feet up the rope from the floor.  It almost seems like it was burned onto the fibers of it.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 26, 2013, 05:31:12 PM "Obviously, something has been there before us. I will try to know more about this by summoning a nearby spirit... If there is such a thing." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 26, 2013, 08:44:39 PM "I shall stand guard while you do so." Ewyn pulls out his back baton and stands ready. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 26, 2013, 11:32:11 PM A fetid smell assaults your senses and the temperature of the room drops once again.  A female spirit shrieks like a howling wind and then hovers before the one that summoned it forth. "SPEAK!  COMMAND!" A strong wind assaults your faces when it utters the words like a wild storm. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 27, 2013, 03:18:07 PM Ceillen, knowing better than loosing control when speaking with a spirit, replies calmly: "A material being has touched this rope and possibly climbed it up since I arrived here. Tell me what it looks like." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 28, 2013, 08:58:18 PM The breath of the spirit flows around you in a wild fashion. "IT WAS NOT MATERIAL!" A violent gust seems to come from the floor. "A SPIRIT, DARK, EVIL.  ONE YOU HAVE SEEN BEFORE.  FLEE OR FACE YOUR DOOM..." The spirit then heads off back into the dark tunnel and is no more.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 28, 2013, 09:54:14 PM Well. We were already on our way out. So I guess we won't be exactly fleeing, right ? Nevertheless, I have grown used to heeding spirits advices. I suggest we climb up as soon as possible, my friend Ewyn. And when we are out, there's another point I would like a spirit to explain: what is making them flee this temple ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on January 29, 2013, 01:58:52 PM "Is that what the chill was? Your spirit coming to talk to you? I gather from your comments that it advised us to leave? Like you said, we were already on our way out" Ewyn begins climbing the rope, taking his time and making sure of his grip before attempting to pull himself up the next bit. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on January 29, 2013, 02:30:48 PM Ewyn finds that it is a lot harder to climb up than it was to climb down. From above however he hears a voice. "Hellooooo...  Anyone down therrrrrre?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on January 29, 2013, 11:38:47 PM Hey, up there ! Help us out of this hole ! I suggest you pull us up, one at a time. I can wait down there until Ewyn is out and you'll just have to send me back the rope and pull a lightweight elf out. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 01, 2013, 06:24:19 PM "Tie yourselves up to the bottom of the rope, and we will pull you up!" You both think that one of your faithful retainers is the one yelling down the shaft. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 02, 2013, 02:28:06 PM I think we should comply quickly my friend. We will have some rest before we go back down there with our other friends. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 02, 2013, 04:40:05 PM "Okay, as you suggested, I will go first. Afterall, you are the one who can see and speak to the spirits" Ewyn then ties the rope around himself and  yells up the shaft, "Ready!" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 02, 2013, 10:41:01 PM The two at the top of the shaft slowly but surely pull you out of the vertical shaft.  There were a few times when the two at the top lost their grip for a moment and Ewyn thought he would plummet to his death, but it only lasted for a short time before the slow progression to the surface continued.  Ewyn finally crawls out of the top and two familiar faces greet him. "We thought you may need us, and were worried about you down there.  We know how you like to get into trouble." They throw the rope back down. "Tie yourself next.  Yell up when you are ready to go." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 02, 2013, 11:27:21 PM Ceillen ties the rope around his waist and holds fast to it with both hand, just to be on the safe side. He yells: I am ready, pull me out of here ! Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 03, 2013, 12:48:50 AM The rope is tugged, though this time it has three sets of hands doing the pulling (if Ewyn chips in).  It isn't long before Ceillen is once again greeted by the daylight.  One of your rescuers nods and smiles. "Everyone else wandered off.  We didn't want to leave you here, so we stayed.  You weren't gone long.  Did you run into some trouble?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 03, 2013, 03:01:58 PM "A bit, yes" Ewyn responds Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 05, 2013, 08:26:48 PM I don't think there are enough of us to explore that endless tunnels safely. Plus we are lacking materials such as torches, ladders and so on. Besides, the welcome ceremony was not exactly...warm. I think we won't find any help down there. But it is a place I will want to go to in the future to learn more about what makes the spirits shun those ruins. For now I suggest we just pick a random direction and go looking for any civilization. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 06, 2013, 07:02:22 AM "I agree, let us go elsewhere until we are more likely to survive the dangers below. Since we came North from a bit to the South, I suggest that we continue heading North for now. At least that way, we are not backtracking over land we have already traveled. Besides, I would rather avoid the flying creatures that drove us in this direction to begin with." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 06, 2013, 06:52:20 PM "I agree with you my friend. Let's have some rest and then to the north.", says Ceillen after a quick look at the sky... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 08, 2013, 10:12:53 PM At the base of the ruins a portal opens up about 15 feet above the ground.  Out tumbles a Dwarf, his flightless bird mount, and a human that pile up one upon another in a chaotic pile.  The Dwarf finds himself in tall grass and stares up at a uniquely styled pyramid that is partially covered in green weeds.  At the top of the pyramid he sees four figures that are partially obscured by the fact that the Dwarf's trusty retainer's leg is covering up his vision.  The Dwarf seems to have forgotten much about his past and only the vague recollection of his name, and the name of his retainer are there.  The rest is clouded in mystery and forgetfulness.  He does however retain all of his training and skills.  He also immediately realizes... that this place is not the same place as where he grew up.  It just feels... different.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 09, 2013, 01:25:37 PM Ewyn looks at his companions, "I believe that we are witness to how we originally arrived here. Let us go give them a hand and see if his memory is any better than ours was when we first arrived here" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 09, 2013, 02:29:19 PM I am with you my friend. Let's see what we can do to help. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 09, 2013, 02:33:37 PM "Oy, Gustav get off me.  I want to see where we are."  He pushes his companion out of his way and stands up to get a better look at the Pyramid. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 11, 2013, 02:10:41 PM The four figures are coming down the block steps of the pyramid and approaching the new arrival.  They seem friendly, though they do seem like they would be dangerous towards any enemies that came their way. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 12, 2013, 01:05:36 PM Thorite untangles himself from Gustav and the bird and stands up waiting for the strangers approach.  He is ready for battle if needed but doesn't have any weapons in hand. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 12, 2013, 07:22:56 PM Ewyn walks up to the new comers. "Hello, my name is Ewyn. Do you have any idea how you arrived here?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 13, 2013, 12:14:25 AM "Thorite is my name and I have no idea how I got here or where here is." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 13, 2013, 08:14:03 AM Well met, friend Thorite. I am Ceillen and this big guy (Ceillen point at his retainer) is Aldor. We are lost here, just like you. We were going to have some rest before going north in search of answers. Will you join us ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 13, 2013, 12:48:47 PM 'Gustav, and I will join you, it seems our manner of arrival is against nature and if there is someone behind it I will have some words for them.'  Thorite strokes his warhammer as he says the last bit. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 13, 2013, 02:05:49 PM "My tall friend here is Creg. We ourselves arrived a little to the south here and upon seeing this structure came this direction. It is extremely dangerous inside this pyramid, at least one creature that requires stronger magic than what we currently possess to fight. We have therefore decided to explore a bit further before coming back dealing with the evil that lies within. Care to join us on our further explorations?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 22, 2013, 02:22:37 AM Let us go forth so we can come back the stronger to take on this place, I feel somehow it holds the key to why we are here and who we are and where we are from. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 22, 2013, 03:09:19 PM The group begins to search and explore in a Northerly direction.  You spend most of the remaining day riding on your mounts or walking beside them.  The land has more of the same tall grass that has now irritated your skin from all of the microscopic cuts (think walking through a large corn field).  In the distance to the West you can barely make out what looks like a forest of seemingly dead trees.  To the North it seems like more of the same with more grassland.  To the North East however you can see a mountain range capped with snow.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 22, 2013, 06:53:27 PM Friends, I find my heart yearning for a forest. Would you mind if we go toward those blessed trees ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 22, 2013, 10:49:18 PM Night finally arrives and your stomachs are rumbling.  The temperature is beginning to plummet as well. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 23, 2013, 04:25:46 PM "I think that it is time for us to make camp." Ewyn dismounts and motions for Creg to do the same. Speaking to Creg, "Why don't you start clearing a space for a fire, while I work on collecting some of this grass to feed it" Ewyn then proceeds to do just that. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on February 23, 2013, 07:37:33 PM Ceillen helps Ewyn setting the camp and ask Aldor to make a quick survey of the immediate surroundings in search of animal tracks or any potentially threatening sign. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 24, 2013, 12:48:01 AM In setting up the camp and in looking at the ground you all see that this area in the recent past seems like it was trampled on by a lot of animals with curved hooves.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on February 26, 2013, 01:09:24 PM Thorite looks to see if there is any water in the nearby area. "I wouldn't mind going to see what is going on with the trees, but I'm not sure they are blessed since they look dead from here." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on February 26, 2013, 04:04:22 PM Ewyn looks up at this comment. "I do believe that you may be correct. There is nothing blessed about dead trees. I suggest that we skirt around them to the north, without directly entering them unless we have to, or unless we see some signs of life within them." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on February 26, 2013, 05:50:39 PM Thorite finds a small spring and a meager creek but the water seems clear and has a clean scent to it.  He isn't sure why, but he thinks there might be something more to this spring.  He almost feels another presence here, as if someone is watching over his shoulder.  Thorite is currently by himself when he finds it, but it isn't far from the rest of the group. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 01, 2013, 01:04:02 PM Thorite looks around.  If he sees nothing then he will pray a little prayer and ask for permission in the prayer to take some water from the spring. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on March 01, 2013, 03:14:48 PM Ewyn continues to work on making a decent sized clearing for the group to camp in. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 02, 2013, 12:02:38 AM When Thorite sends a prayer out he feels an overwhelming sense of peace come over him.  What originally felt like a thing staring at him, now feels like a friend is close by, or perhaps like the tension in a room lessening over time after a heated fight and slowly being replaced by some pleasant feeling.  When you take the water nothing happens, and it seems fresh and quite healthy. The camp gets set up without any problems.  It gets dark rather quickly though and some sort of light source will need to be produced to see.  There seems to be a complete lack of wood in the area, just tall grass that Ewyn had to tramp down to set up the camp. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 04, 2013, 10:43:22 AM All animals, even dangerous ones, are likely to come here as there is water. I will try to gather some pieces of information regardingpossible dangers around this spot. As his friends are setting up camp, Ceillen summons a lesser water spirit and ask if there are dangerous denizens in the area. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 04, 2013, 03:18:16 PM Thorite feels something move THROUGH him but it leaves no obvious ill effects.  The area then feels empty.  Where there was once a presence there is now nothing there. Back at the campsite Ceillen feels the presence of the spirit before he can see it, and then it emerges slowly from the ground physically showing itself as a gathering pool of water.  "Ask and by the old forms and rites I will answer." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 04, 2013, 08:39:21 PM Thorite wanders back to camp.  "The oddest thing just happened to me." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 05, 2013, 03:36:34 AM Thorite sees that Ceillen seems to be looking at a pool of water in a strange way. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 05, 2013, 08:36:37 PM Please, friend Thorite, tell me what happened to you. I may be able to have some explanations. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 06, 2013, 01:03:23 PM "I was communing with the presence of the pool and suddenly felt it move through me and then it was gone." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 10, 2013, 12:13:00 PM "It must have been a pleasant experiment. Is it something you do regularly ?" Then Ceillen face the pool and ask respectfully : "Good spirit, we are but peaceful travelers passing by and wishing to stop for the night. Is there anything around that could be disturbed by our little camp ?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 11, 2013, 12:21:35 PM "It just seemed like the right thing to do.  Like I have done that sort of thing before." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 11, 2013, 07:15:05 PM That's funny. Maybe you are some kind of shaman, just like me. You do not have the traditional bone through the nose and other attires but neither do I. Tell me friend, are you able to see the good spirit of the pool standing right there ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 12, 2013, 12:14:01 PM "I see nothing."  "I felt something when in the presence of a special place in Nature." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 12, 2013, 01:55:24 PM The spirit in the water speaks, but only Ceillen can hear it. "The herd animals of this land are deadly.  If you aren't careful their many hooves and horns will grind you into the dirt." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 12, 2013, 06:48:06 PM I thank you very much for your wise advice. We will make camp away from their tracks so as not to disturb them. We would also use some of your water if you don't mind. You can be sure that we will not defile the purity of your pond. You have my world on that. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 12, 2013, 11:00:33 PM "I cannot give what is freely available...  You have my blessing however.  Go in peace and safety strangers." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 15, 2013, 02:49:23 PM Night descends like the fading vision of a dying man.  The darkness wraps around you like a cloak of ebony apathy.  The sounds of many strange insects fill your ears, and of larger animals as well.  A hard rain begins to fall shortly after nightfall, and begins to soak everything it touches.  A cold wind gives you the shivers. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 21, 2013, 01:00:12 PM Several hours after nightfall there are a plethora of animal noises that sound like a mix of high pitched sounds mixed at the same time with very low pitched sounds.  They sound like they are close by. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 21, 2013, 03:30:09 PM Let's hope our small fire will keep them at bay. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on March 21, 2013, 04:19:04 PM Ewyn does his best to keep the fire going, even to the point of asking Creg to hold a tarp or blanket in such a way to keep off as much rain as possible from the fire. Turning to the others, he asks, "Could some of you possibly rig some way to shield the fire so that Creg doesn't have to hold that there all night?" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 22, 2013, 12:28:38 PM Thorite will take off his helmet and attempt to cast the Shelter Spell as he suddenly remembers he can do that sort of thing. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 22, 2013, 02:27:22 PM Ceillen waves at Aldor to ask for help : "Let's try to put together two tents or sleeping bags. Then we will be able to hold them or make them hold over the fire to protect it from the rain. We'll have to be careful not to let them catch fire though. I think we can use it intermittently each time the fire begins to wane. The major drawback is that we will smell like smoked sausages for the next days... If it proves too difficult, I will ask kindly a fire spirit to ensure our camp fire continuity. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 22, 2013, 04:48:58 PM The group finds only a few items to burn, and realizes the fire spirit will be necessary if they want a fire to last longer than an hour.  Grass doesn't burn so much as it smokes, so that isn't a very good fuel.  In the darkness that surrounds you a dying animal's final painful cries breaks out in the darkness.  The rest of the animals get silent for several seconds, and then all hell breaks loose.  The sound of screaming and frightened animals becomes a cacophony.  The sound of a rushing herd thundering on the grasslands towards your camp can be heard.  The thunder of hooves almost drowns out the words you wish to speak to one another, and you need to yell to be heard. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 23, 2013, 10:03:19 PM I guess some predators must be hunting. I am confident that our fire and the abundance of preys will keep them away from us. I will keep an eye opened though. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on March 25, 2013, 12:37:24 PM I prepare to get out of the way if they are truly stampeding in our direction it is unlikely a fire will give them much pause. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on March 27, 2013, 01:03:27 PM Right in the middle of the cacophony of thunderous hooves a human male wearing reinforced armor and another human tumble out of the sky through a familiar looking vortex/portal-thing.  His flightless bird mount tumbles out as well.  They all fall to the ground roughly into a large pile.  Some of the animals can now be seen.  They are roughly 15 feet tall at the shoulders, having six legs and are covered in thick black fur.  They have three horns that jut from beneath their mouths and large solid black eyes.  Several of the animals are being gored to death in the chaos and then trampled under the hooves of their fellow frantic creatures. The herd looks like it will possibly hit the campsite in about 3 rounds... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on March 27, 2013, 01:10:31 PM Ewyn grabs his weapons and yells at Creg, "Help our new arrivals up!" He then moves to stand between the new arrivals and the oncoming herd. He then prepares to cast Empty Fist at the first creature to close within 50'. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on March 27, 2013, 06:55:39 PM Aldor and Ceillen try to move away from the onslaught. Aldor grabs as many backpacks as possible while Ceillen prepare to cast an astral bolt at the first behemoth coming his way. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: superdad on March 27, 2013, 11:15:09 PM The newcomer disgorges himself from the heap. Handsome features and sandy blond hair, the younger man brushes himself off as his eyes and hands move around to check his equipment. "Where in the bloody blue hell...", he spits out in a thick accent (think British) before taking note of the things around him. His eyes widen, but he reaches out his arms to the other man with him, "Hand me my bow, and see to it that you get your own as well- answers will have to wait until after blood..." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 01, 2013, 05:53:03 PM The astral bolt and Empty Fist are cast successfully and they manage to turn the first two heads of the creatures enough so that they miss the camp.  Several other animals are hit in the chest by arrows and they turn aside. The horde of creatures behind them however crash into the camp and possibly into those that are standing there.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 03, 2013, 02:03:16 PM Ewyn and his associate somehow manage to avoid getting hit by any of the creatures. Ceillen is hit by 2 of the stampeding creatures and their tusks rip into him and then he is ran over by their hooves.  Ceillen's associate gets gored and trampled underneath two of the creatures. Faimden ducks most of the creatures but he gets gored on one of them.  Faimden's associate gets slammed into by one of the creatures and gored by the second. Thorite gets trampled under one of the creatures and a hoof cracks him in the skull.  His associate gets gored in the chest and his leg gets trampled on. The herd of creatures continues to move off in the direction of dead woods that can be seen somewhat far away.  They leave in their wake your sounds of pain and the remains of your destroyed camp.  Blood is filling up the hoof prints in the dirt from the many wounds the stampeding creatures caused. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on April 03, 2013, 03:22:06 PM Ewyn looks around, slightly winded, and then motions to Creg, "See if you can find any of our supplies, so that we can perform what First Aid that we can on the others. Then see if you can find any of our mounts." (I am presuming they scattered away from the stampede) Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 04, 2013, 01:16:12 PM The flightless birds did run and scatter but they are now roaming around in seemingly random directions.  They shouldn't be hard to round up.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on April 04, 2013, 03:34:11 PM After giving a few minutes thought, Ewyn turns to Creg, "On second thought, I believe that you are likely to fair better at providing these men with First Aid than I am. I shall go round up our mounts while you tend to them." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 04, 2013, 04:46:06 PM It takes some time for Ewyn to gather up the flightless bird mounts, but after some sweet-talking in low murmurs he does manage to gather them all together and return them to their owners. Creg seems to be helping for the most part, but sometimes it seems that he is a bit shaken still from the stampede and his work is in vain.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: superdad on April 04, 2013, 05:31:46 PM Faimden The man takes a quick look around at the others, then looks at the man who had came with him through the portal. With a quick handed action he pointed to his retainer and moved towards him, "Stay still Tolen," and moved in close to him. He put his hand on the man's bow, making eye contact with him and nodding curtly- as if he did not want the man to lower his weapon. He spoke clearly, "Let me attend your wounds.", then dropped his voice "eyes open. Going through a stampede with a man does not make him your friend- we know nothing of these ruffians, they may be bandits." Then he looked over the bruises and scrapes as best he could. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on April 04, 2013, 08:57:31 PM Ceillen, as soon as he has recovered some strength, makes a quick check-up. Then he says to his friends : "Those beasts should show more consideration to a poor shaman... Anyway, if any of you has received a serious injury, I have a way to heal him quickly. I may not be able to do it, but I am willing to try anyway." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 09, 2013, 02:06:34 AM It begins to mist at first and then it begins to rain. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: superdad on April 11, 2013, 06:53:59 PM Faimden The warrior with noble bearing turned towards the nearest of those who had already assembled here as the mist started. "Is there shelter nearby,", he asked as he scanned around, trying to take stock of the others. Then the mist turned abruptly to rain. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on April 12, 2013, 12:36:51 AM Thorite "There is nothing but grass in the immediate vicinity.  Give me a few minutes and I can try and create some shelter but can't guarantee succes." Thorite gets out his pouch of components again and starts concentrating. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 12, 2013, 05:12:43 PM A structure appears that looks like it can possible shelter most of you.  It will be tight however. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on April 13, 2013, 07:47:44 AM I feel like this cold water will act as a soothing balm for my burning bruises. I suggest that you warriors use the shelter to recover your strength as soon as possible in case it would be needed. Oh, and for our most welcome newcomers, I am Ceillen, formerly shaman for my tribe, and now as lost here as everybody. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 14, 2013, 03:52:19 AM In the distance the shaman sees two of the lumbering creatures that are lying on the ground thrashing.  He thinks that if given time the creatures will die and they will have plenty of meat to eat... if it is edible that is. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on April 14, 2013, 06:22:04 PM Gentlemen, we have to good actions to accomplish over there. We can both accompany the souls of those poor dying creatures and potentially get our bellies full of meat. Anyone here is wiling to give Aldor and I a hand ? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Sunwolf on April 15, 2013, 03:20:01 PM Thorite "It would be shameful to not properly utilize the bounty of Nature." Thorite joins the team recovering the meat. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 18, 2013, 02:30:51 PM Those who wish to do so aid in the butchering of the animal.  The meat does seem to be edible and there is plenty of it.  The long process of gutting and cutting up the meat begins.  It takes roughly 4 hours to cut just the first animal up.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on April 19, 2013, 03:35:32 PM Ewyn, after he completes rounding up the scattered mounts, enters the shelter and tries to find a semi-quiet corner to get a little bit of sleep. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on April 26, 2013, 05:02:42 PM The group sets up a camp, posts watches, and the night goes by uneventfully in peace and quiet. The last member that was on watch (Ewyn) sees that all around your campsite there are hundreds of long and short furry creatures that are crawling through the grass towards your general direction.  Ewyn sees their heads popping up above the tall grass from time to time.  They look strangely intelligent and he thinks they are communicating with each other, for he sees them and barely hears their... words? Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on April 29, 2013, 06:16:21 PM Ewyn starts waking up the others as he sees these creatures approaching. He keeps his eyes on the creatures, while nudging the others with his feet (for any who are nearby) and then telling them, "Wake the others, we have company coming!" Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 02, 2013, 02:07:53 PM A chant begins coming from their mouths. "Anglatha sooyamma boggotha... Anglatha sooyamma boggotha... Anglatha sooyamma boggotha..." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on May 02, 2013, 08:18:25 PM Funny. Those sounds remind me of the Traditional chants used during ceremonies to evoke spirits... Either they are doing exactly this or they take us for spirits from another plane... Which may be exactly what we are for them... Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on May 06, 2013, 12:04:40 PM Ewyn stands ready, in case they attack. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 06, 2013, 06:17:49 PM Their heads are round and elongated like a cylinder with rounded ends.  They have fairly large eyes.  One of them moves forward and in its front paws/hands it slides over a bowl of fruits and vegetables. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on May 08, 2013, 02:48:54 PM Ewyn moves cautiously over towards the bowl (his hands empty, since he had been preparing a spell), places his hand together in front of him and bows over them. He then makes a slight "shoo-ing" gesture, as a way of asking the being to move back, away from the bowl. If it does move back, Ewyn will crouch down, pick up the bowl and back away (carefully) from the beings, towards the rest of our group with the bowl and speaking to his retainer. "Creg, come get this bowl and give it a once over, will you? See if these things are edible if you can." Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 09, 2013, 03:12:01 PM Creg looks a little strangely at the fruit, and then to the creatures, and then he takes a big juicy bite after sniffing it.  Sweet juice runs down his face and he smiles.  Thorite being shorter of stature will step forward unarmed and kneel down with his palms forward and empty in a sign of peace. The creatures back away startled and then emit something that may be a giggle.  They then imitate his gestures. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on May 26, 2013, 05:44:01 PM With a relaxed face and calm gestures, Ceillen join Creg and take part to the feast. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 28, 2013, 12:12:15 AM The creatures start hopping up and down when the group begins to eat the fruits and vegetables. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on May 28, 2013, 09:17:14 AM Ok so first contact has been made. Ceillen tries to speak with them using simple words from both human and elven dialect he his familiar with, all the while using quiet gestures to try to be understood. "Hello, friends. We thank you for this delicious food." Besides, being used to dealing with spirits, he tries to convey good feelings and thoughts just in case those creatures would be especially responsive to them. If this attempt fails, Ceillen will try to give them whatever food he may have salvaged from our recent rodeo. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 29, 2013, 01:10:45 AM The creatures make what you assume is a giggling noise, and then one of them makes a different gesture where it drags its one back leg across the ground.  You are not sure if you got your message across or not. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on May 29, 2013, 01:25:43 PM "I think that it is trying to tell us that one of its friends may be injured, and perhaps it is asking for aid?" says Ewyn Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on May 29, 2013, 06:02:40 PM "You may be right Ewyn." Ceillen advances slowly toward the creatures and with a quiet hand gesture speak to their spokescreature. "Lead the way, my little friend. I may be able to help". Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 30, 2013, 01:05:15 PM The creature seems like it doesn't understand.  It looks at you and drags its leg again.  Then it points to the food. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on May 30, 2013, 01:43:24 PM "Maybe we're having it wrong. He's offering us that food to help us recover from our injuries ? I am feeling inclined to oblige..." Ceillen goes on eating heartily. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on May 31, 2013, 12:36:34 PM Those that eat of the fruit do feel much better and some of their injuries seem to be healing faster. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on June 01, 2013, 08:47:24 PM Ewyn takes a little of the food, takes a bite, and then turns and bows to the creatures. He then continues to eat the remainder of the food that he has taken. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on June 01, 2013, 09:53:13 PM Once everybody has taken a bite, I suggest we pack our remaining gears and make ready to go. Maybe our little friends here will take us somewhere. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on June 02, 2013, 01:50:22 AM The one that was dragging its foot produce a small spear, but with the point towards itself.  It then suddenly throws itself down on the tip, and though obviously in pain... it doesn't utter a single sound, and it dies almost instantly.  It must have known how to do this properly. The other creatures start to pick up one leg and drag it across the ground in almost unison gestures, as if this is some sort of ritual dance.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on June 02, 2013, 05:57:18 PM "Stop that !", cries Ceillen. "You don't have to die. I don't know who do you think we are, but we don't want you to die !". Ceillen tries to grab the nearest spear and, if succesful, break it in half over his knee. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on June 03, 2013, 04:24:45 AM Ceillen has no problem pulling the spear away from one of them and breaks it.  The creature looks from the broken spear, and then into the eyes of Ceillen.  It then begins to walk away from the group, and Ceillen notes that none of the other creatures look at him.  They all seem to be ignoring him now, like it is some sort of outcast. ...the dance starts up again, though none of them have pointed a spear tip at their chests yet. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on June 08, 2013, 03:47:58 PM Ewyn looks carefully at the other creatures, then walks over and stands in front of one. He then sits on the ground, points at the creature, and then pats the ground in front of him. Ewyn calls out to Creg, "See if you can catch up to our departing friend and guide him back here and and get him to sit down. Ceillen, can I have that broken spear please. I have an idea, and I hope to get it across to the rest of friends" Ewyn then waits to see if the one he pointed at gets the hint and sits down. If he does, Ewyn then points at all of the others in a sweeping motion, and then motions for them to take seats as well. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on June 10, 2013, 01:34:39 PM The one that Ewyn pointed at looks confused, but sits down.  The rest of the creatures don't understand however and continue to dance.  Creg manages to eventually after much handwaving and gesturing to have the departed creature return. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on June 11, 2013, 07:06:50 PM You seem to have good feelings with those furry fellows. Carry on Ewyn. If you can spare them a massive blood letting, that will be a great achievement. If I can help in any way, please ask. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on June 15, 2013, 03:47:27 AM Ewyn tries to keep his face impassive and points at the creature that killed itself. He then  points at his companions and himself and makes an "angry face"., and then point at the broken spear. Ewyn then ponts several times, first at the corpse then to the broken spear. He then gives the creature a questioning look. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on June 16, 2013, 12:01:28 AM The creature across from Ewyn looks equally confused and questioning.  It turns around and jabbers something incoherent at the rest of the creatures, and then they all sit down.  Then the one talking to Ewyn also sits down.  It then motions for one of the others to bring it something.  A leather pouch is brought forward and laid on Ewyn's lap.  It is folded over and tied together with leather straps.  It then motions for you to open it up.  Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on June 16, 2013, 04:57:42 PM Ceillen sits down behind Ewyn and gestures to his other fellows to do the same. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on June 26, 2013, 02:21:38 PM Ewyn takes the pouch, and places it on the ground in front of him, and then opens it up to see what is inside. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on June 28, 2013, 01:32:37 PM The pouch opens in Ewyn's lap and inside he finds an ornately carved stone eye.  It is roughly six inches across and about 2 inches thick.  On the back of the eye there is what looks like some sort of stone rod that is only slightly sticking out of the back of it.  It looks like you could push that rod into the eye. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on July 15, 2013, 11:58:29 AM The creatures lift up your characters and march them to their homeland.  They give you gifts of bone necklaces, gems, and other trinkets that you aren't familiar with.  They seem to be honoring you like gods, or heroes.  Eventually after much feasting and drinking (all of which were amazingly flavorful and good) you are taken to a similar portal like when you first came to this place.  They show you an indentation on the pillars and the eye-like device fits snugly into it.  The portal appears, and after you say your goodbyes you once again return to the place you originally came from, wherever that may be. THE END (thanks for playing). Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: Fidoric on July 15, 2013, 07:24:19 PM Thank you Samwise7 for having carried us so far. It must have been a significant effort for you to GMed such a disparate lot of players even if we were not so numerous in the end. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: imported_Rasyr on July 16, 2013, 01:08:03 PM Yes, thanks for running this game for us!  I enjoyed it while it lasted. Title: Strangers IC Thread Post by: samwise7 on July 16, 2013, 09:10:54 PM Thanks for playing guys, we gave it a good try.  Running PBP games works out like that sometimes.  Some games run for years and others just don't have the staying power.  This was my first attempt at running a "hex crawl" so it was a bit experimental too.  I just whipped up a map with hexographer and we got through 2 hexes.  hehe. Cya around on the forum and on the net. Text Only | Text with Attachments SMF 2.0.19 | SMF © 2021, Simple Machines TinyPortal 2.2.2 © 2005-2022