He is sometimes the contemplative sort, is Gil-Gandel....
He is sometimes the contemplative sort, is Gil-Gandel....
Rorimac finds he can read Elvish runes now though it takes some work, his brain is translating both the runes and the words into Westron in this case so the reading is slow. The hearing and understanding is much swifter and so close to real time that he has to think about it being Elvish. Same for the Southron and Hathan Dialects he hears. He should be able to pick up these languages fairly swift to communicate in with the benefit of the ring.
After much meditating Gil-Gandel requests the +5 Elven Long Sword that gives +5 saves vs. spells & magic attacks that he had been using and something to aid either his bowing or spellsinging if such can be found but will settle for the short sword upgrade.
Deor and Bitur can explain to Gwaelur in detail what needs to be done to the flail and Deor will use a mending spell to assist the pair of Dwarven smiths.
The huge amount of magic weapons can be traded over the next few weeks for money and other items. Gil-Gandel and Gilraen work with General and others to complete trades. Party members gain 3500 gold each except for Mulligan, she gains only 2200.
Deor: The Evil Ring & +2 Knife & 3 scrolls.10th level scroll: Wall of Force (5), Cloudkill(5) Extension II (5). 9th level scroll: Ice Storm (4), Suggestion (3), Knock (2), Message (1). 12th level scroll: Strengthen Wall (5) (AofE 2x Wall of Stone) Makes miraculous repairs to stone walls, shores up tunnels, etc., Key Stone (5) take 13 – level days to cast but always 1 full day. Gives buildings it is part of protection vs. magics, fire and lightning. Fumble (4), Dig (4) & Lightning Bolt(3) x3
Sala: The Boots of Speed & 6 combat potions and cash of course . Very happy Sala!
Thoroncir: Monetary share to be donated to the Order of Sea-Knights. Magic Lance +4 & 6 +2 arrows Dwarven.
Ceol: +4 Short in return for a +2 Short and a strong bow +2 and Lance +2 & 6 +2 arrows Dwarven.
Rorimac: The Magic Ring, languages, Light and vs. Undead. Also 6 combat potions, acts like a Strength spell and haste for up to Con number of rounds but age 1 month per round. Use sparingly to say the least. Only for Humans/Hobbits.
Drinoleth: The golden belt, best for a shape changer. Also a Preservation Spell (2) and magic salt good for 111 uses with the spell. The spell normally preserves vegetable matter for Level/5 duration but with salt become level/2 duration. One grain of salt per spell. Up to 1 cubic foot of material per level.
Ithilneth: The Elfstone & +3 Elven Short Sword vs. Undead, Some new spells from Deor helping to finance the buying of the very rare scrolls but of course less money. Magic Arrows 12x+1 & 7x+2
Bitur: Bolts +1,+3,+4 & Battle Axe +4 and War Shield +4trading in old pair.
Gil-Gandel: +5 Elven Long Sword that gives +5 saves vs. spells & magic attacks, +3 Elven Short could probably be enhanced, trade back pair of magic swords +3 & +1.
Gwaelur: Wants the Mithril very much. Gil-Gandel tracks down that a magic hammer was found that would help a smith with forging. Interested?
Gilraen: Looked for stuff to aid healing but found nothing. Word is given though that an Item will be sent for her from the main army.
Mulligan: The 10 Gems (for Sling) & 7 magic stones +3 no range penalties Two excellent items found: Finely wrought Cat collar of mithril chains and Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye gems.and a small Mithril Figurine with Cat’s Eyes for the eyes. The collar gives the cat the ability to slip through even smaller holes, hear and see better, +3 to AC and Telepathy to the Holder of the Figurine. The Figurine has two options: (Either option is only for females)
1) Just use and gain telepathy to the cat wearing the collar at 100’ range
2) Activate but tie a level into the figurine. If lost or broken lose a level. However this gives +20% to hear noise, move silent & hide in shadows and +10% climb and half damage on a fall. +20% reaction for all normal cats. Can effectively see, hear & spell what the cat does. Telepathy is over 1 mile range.
Gil-Gandel & Gilraen both suspect it must be related to or part of the magic that Queen Berúthiel used.
A Pair of spectacles. Allow detects magic up to 1" away (narrow pointing though) and +25% to read languages.
Monetary reward would be small as money spent for these two useful items.
Theogrim: +5 Bastard Sword & strong bow +1 & 6 +2 arrows Dwarven.
Redward: 2 +2 Knives, throw or wield, Promise of better bow in future.
Prestolwen: The healing dagger, healing potions and herbs. Promise of better bow in future. +2 Short Sword.
Please speak up if you do not like what is found and wish to change it.
Thoroncir is very pleased with his new lance and arrows. He privately says to Gilraen, however, "I confess, my lady, that I am a little uneasy about anything connected with Queen Berúthiel, the only person I know to have been removed from the Book of Kings. She was, by all accounts, nefarious and cruel. If there is such a connection, can we be sure that the collar and figurine are safe for your and Missy's use?"
Gilraen replies, "It appears the magic itself is not good or evil but rather like the connection many Mages have with their animal friends like Deor and Folca here. It was the Queen's dark spells and dark heart that brought such to evil. I understand that such magic dates back to at least Númenor itself and before the darkness and greed took over. I've read that Good Princess Silmariën, foremother of the Faithful used such magic herself. As to the use, Missy would not like this, she is a sedate cat by nature, the item was found for Mulligan and Freyja."
As to the gold, the members of the party will get 3000 in trade gems and 500 in gold so the party will probably need to spend or secure much of the gold. No more gems are easily available for fair trade price.
Last edited by What Exit?; 21 Oct 2010 at 01:22 PM.
What simple magic or well-crafted items are available at the shops in the area? A Bag of Holding wouldn't go amiss. Otherwise, Deor will look around to restock his material focuses for spells, and look for what valuable items this area produces. Spices? Textiles? Rare woods or metals? What's this area famous for?
Deor is very happy with the proposed share of loot.
Drinoleth is quite pleased with his share. He will look into the shops as well as see what's growing wild for possibly restocking his collection of herbs. Is there anything rare available here that might catch his eye?
Zuul, your avatar is rather... eye-catching. I hope it won't be lingering after Halloween?
Thoroncir thanks Gilraen for her reassuring explanation. Better safe than sorry.
He wonders if all or some of the party would like to (a) recover the giant evil troll-sword we hid just as Drinoleth joined the party, (b) return to Udar village to see how they're getting on, and/or (c) recover the strongbox full of coins which we left behind in the troll-cave?
That could be dealt with in just a few sentences, I presume?
Last edited by Elendil's Heir; 21 Oct 2010 at 03:07 PM.
I actually included the strongbox. The party took it with them to Udar so it was already partially spent.
No mythical Bags of Holding can be found.
Sala would like an opportunity to recover the Troll Sword but off course the General probably has more immediate work. Perhaps as he is only a liaison to army and specific your group he can ride out to recover it for the party when you don't need a translator.
Drinoleth can indeed find some rare herbs wild and in town. Consulting with Ghân-Buri-Ghân he gets a good supply of the local herbs.
The town's signature product was a Cinnamon wine.
Gwaelur is also interested in the magic hammer.
Ceol will give 1/3 of his share of the gold to charity (preferably, families who have suffered losses during the war, if possible).
Bitur is extremely pleased with his share of the treasure.
Mulligan is very interested in the items found although she does winder whether Freyja will submit to wearing a collar even if it is explained what it does. It will make her look pretty, all cats like to be told it makes them look pretty. Not sure whether to activate the figurine or not. The Spectacles will come in useful for sure.
Rorimac is more than happy with the ring and will do his best to honour it's previous wearer.
In the land of the blind, the one-arm man is king.
A splendid blade, I had little enough to fear from the undead as it was, and now I have so much the less fear of their foul magics. I am also happy to see Sala rewarded well for his bravery and as compensation for the loss of life-force to the wight. With those items as assistance he should have a somewhat easier time making good his losses. Also I look forward to seeing what Gwaelur can forge from the mithril.
Ah, and what scrolls those are, Deor! To learn from?
Librarians rule, Oook
Gwaelur’s new hammer: Will allow quicker forging by keep the metal worked at the perfect heat once it is heated. It also allows the smith to work twice as long. Basically it reduces the days required to make an item by a factor of 8 though the daily smithing time is of course doubled.
For Ceol he finds a few options of course. The locals have lost many during the war and the war is not yet over. There is a general fund called the Widows Fund for the army of Gondor & Rohan. There is another specific fund for Rohan that goes towards equipping young riders from poorer families to become Riders of Mark. Theogrim was a partial beneficiary of said years ago. Then there is the very specific Order of Sea-Knights that Thoroncir is giving too. Finally the money could just be donated to the permanent establishment of a House of Healing in Port Hatha. Lady Éowyn is of course one of the senior members of the Order and Princess Gilraen is another member. They plan to establish one here at Hatha as part of the pacification process of the area.
Mulligan is surprised when Freyja seems eager to wear the collar. She loves the Jewels and suggests activating the full powers so Freyja can keep better track of her.
The Silver Sword was matched with a young and strong noble of Arnor oddly. He is named Benelhir and is a Ranger of the North that recently completed his training. He is one of the members of the Clan of Kanotir and he and a few other Rangers of the North are fighting for their King to help speed the resolution of the southern wars.
Over the next several months the party is sent on many missions and not always together. A few reports come in for attention of the group to be kept quiet. The King has some lose stories to verify Sala’s story of the mysterious woods to the south of the Nation of Raj. It does sound as if some Ent-like or Elf-like entities might live down there. Or perhaps a figure like Tom Bombadil whatever he might actually be. They continue to gather rumors and stories as the main army works south. Your group will be working locally on short missions and ready to embark on The Elendil when needed.
In this time Gwaelur and Bitur probably spend quite a bit of it in smithing and supervising some of the repairs to Port Hatha. Thoroncir & Ceol almost constantly ride on rapid cavalry work. The rest of the party supported these actions most but not all of the time. The Hobbits usually hitched rides on the large and fast horses of others but the Dwarves found the fast missions not to their skills and interests and went on less as time went on.
Deor would be able to teach Ithilneth many new spells.
Gil-Gandel would have a chance to learn new spells, perfect his Southron and Hathan and study the local lore and history.
Drindoleth studied the local flora and fauna and perfected his use of the Golden Belt. He also improved on his casting in bear form and had a chance to learn his third shape if desired. His skills allow him to greatly aid the feeding of the locals and the army. Wherever he goes the people are quite happy and come to look for the great wolf rider.
Gwaelur: A half pound of Mithril won’t go far for armor so at this point I am guessing he does little with it. One option though is to try and improve your war shield. You have the time and a chance to bring it from +4 to +5, especially with a little help from the pair of mages and Bitur. I give you this chance as you have acquired an excellent tool and helped to make this war shield. Do you wish to try?
Bitur has spare time to make some marvelous toys for sale and to make squibs and other fireworks for himself. Though carrying many of these could of course be dangerous.
Gilraen: A special package arrives with a most special deliverer. The Crown Prince Eldarion arrives with a small but strong escort. Legolas Greenleaf of Ithilien is among them. Eldarion presents Gilraen with a Silver Saddle for Kali, her exceptional Rohirrim horse. It gives the horse protection and the ability to ride longer each day. At night a silver or white horse and rider will be near invisible to any eyes.
Prince Eldarion takes over administration locally from General Haldon who rides with half his army on a new mission. The Prince is still very young at only 21. Legolas stays on for a while as Gimli arrives a few weeks later to supervise the proper rebuilding of Port Hatha. He immediately rebuilds the gate towers to increase their protection. He works on improving water storage in the town to help with fire fighting. He begins the rebuilding of the great watch tower and light house on the hill. Gimli requests Deor perform his Corner Stone Ceremony at each rebuilding. He also asks the Deor gives the Stone House of Healing a Protect House from Fire
Legolas often rides out with the cavalry and his archery is almost frightening to behold, in the time Gil-Gandel fires 9 arrows, Legolas fires 24 or he hits opposing leaders from almost as far away as the keenest sighted can see though at a far slower rate. He never seems to miss. Though as Gimli often points out sometimes Legolas needs more that one arrow to drop a foe. When he is along the battles often turn to routes and collecting up those that surrender.
The area is pacified and most of the villages seem happy with the change of allegiance. Drinoleth and Ghân-Buri-Ghân have brought about a time of plenty and Deor’s Blessed Beer (2), Blessed Ale (2) ; Blessed Wine (2) & Blessed Mead (2) helps out in Port Hatha itself. Each spell enhances 36 gallons of Beverage. At about 2 a day for about 90 days he can earn 648gp and makes great friends of the local brewers and wineries.
Rorimac also learns the local fauna and flora. Has plenty of work as cavalry support and does some guerrilla mischief with his cousin as the sneak invisibly and silently into enemy camps at night to cause disruptions or spy on meetings. His new found ability to understand Southron and other local dialects is a great boon in this work. Their ability to work together and Freyja’s additional watchful eyes have made their missions simple. A few times the missions were aborted as Mulligan spied with her new spectacles that the building or tent they planned to invade was magical or had magic on it. They always erred on the side of caution and thus never failed. The 3 scouts did spectacular work on the only other sizable fortified town in the area and when it came time for Eldarion to lead an assault on the town, all of its secrets were largely spied out. The party was instrumental in being inside the city ahead of time and taking out the three key buildings that were ensorcelled and having Legolas and the other archers at a highpoint inside the town caused great confusion to the defenders. Gilraen ensured that the town was taken as peacefully as possible and encouraged the spellcasters to memorize spells that would put out fires swiftly. She did her best to heal the injured on both sides of course.
Thoroncir had plenty of chances to ride with Eldarion in the battle. Ceol was ever at his side in these actions. He finds the young prince so close to him in age an excellent comrade. At one point in a harrowing fight; Thoroncir actually manages to take an arrow for his Prince. The arrow was poisoned but a sweet water was available to aid him. At the end of the fight Eldarion says to him, “My sister is right, in your veins runs the ancient bravery and nobility of our people. I thank you Captain Thoroncir. I for one will speak well of you to our sire the King.”
The party had time to retrieve the Troll Sword on one of the many missions. Sala proved himself a most useful party member and translator. Rorimac speaks Southron fairly well now and of course Gil-Gandel speaks it near perfect and can handle half dozen accents. Southron of course is a robust pidgin for the south and not a specific language local to one kingdom.
Out of all of this Rorimac will actually make level and all others will be closer yet. Let me know what else might be attempted in this time or what you especially work on.
If Freyja is happy with it, then Mulligan will activate the figurine. Now all she has to do is keep it safe.
She will also ask Deor and the others if there are any spells that would add to it not breaking which could be used without affecting it?
In the land of the blind, the one-arm man is king.
Gil-Gandel is proud to be mentioned even in the same breath as Legolas, whose prowess is legendary, indeed proverbial. But there is no need for jealousy: I on the other hand have been the student of Tom Bombadil himself, and that is something of which few can boast. I have perfected some more of what he taught me and can now create multiple copies of myself to mislead foes, captivate a small crowd with a song that plays by itself, or fill your ear so full of melody that it can hear naught else (fear not though, at least it is pleasant to hear).
Those mysterious woods sound interesting. I have not visited the Ents myself but I know (for have I not read the Red Book - and the King of the Mark's copy at that?) that Prince Legolas has, so whenever I have the chance of his company I shall learn from him all that he is willing to teach. If we go that way, I too know more of Bombadil than most - which is not to say that I know much of all there is to know, by any means. Indeed, I suspect he is, at bottom, quite incomprehensible by any save the Valar, and maybe not them.
Librarians rule, Oook
After giving it some consideration, Drinoleth decides that an aquatic form would be the best addition to his repertoire. When he has the time, he seeks out the water to begin practicing moving and using his senses as his third form, a seal.
At some point, he will seek out Thoroncir as well. "If it would not be too much trouble, I had hoped you might be able to offer some insight into my new form of a seal?"
Last edited by Zuul; 22 Oct 2010 at 11:23 AM. Reason: Added more.
Having little desire for such things, Ithilneth will give her share of gems and all but 200 of her gold to the Widows' Fund. Her free time will be spent among the local families, teaching any who care to learn simple Elf-craft about herbs and cooking, and making and mending small goods. In the evenings, she will trade songs with others for entertainment.
Captain Sir Thoroncir is happy to again see Gimli, and to renew his acquaintance from the time of their first meeting in Minas Tirith last year. He is simply in awe of the legendary Legolas.
He is very pleased to be of service to the Crown Prince, who is his age, and is secretly relieved to have acquitted himself with honor, especially if word of it will in time come to the ears of the King, to whom he must someday make his and Gilraen's intentions known. Speaking of which, having already given generously to the Order of Sea-knights in the past, this time he will instead donate his share of the party's treasure to the House of Healing now being built in Port Hatha.
If there is time, Thoroncir will revisit Udar village and see how its people have been doing since we returned the kidnapped and ill-used Falina to them. Perhaps Gilraen would like to come along, too?
He also seeks out Benelhir of the Clan of Kanotir, congratulating him on his acquisition of the Silver Sword (purposefully failing to mention that the Sword first spoke to him), and telling him a bit about Gil-Gandel's band's visit to Vanimelde's house, Aerdolan Kanotir on Amontari.
Thoroncir tells Drinoleth, "I regret that I have no particular insights to offer you. Seals are talented swimmers, skilled underwater hunters and can withstand extremely cold water, as you know. I can speak to seals and to selkies, as it happens; my great-great-grandmother was even said by some in my hometown of Linhir to have been a selkie herself. With my Cloak of the Seals, I can swim like a seal, and did so once not long ago in Gollum's dark pool, where Bilbo Baggins and he had their historic riddle-game. It was a remarkable experience, although I have not since used the cloak. Perhaps we might swim together, and I will see if I can speak to some of the harbor seals and interpret for you? A word of caution, however: seals are, in my experience, neither terribly serious nor deep thinkers - no pun intended."
Last edited by Elendil's Heir; 22 Oct 2010 at 12:43 PM.
When not helping with the Port and catching up with his kinsman Gimli, Gwaelur will use his new hammer to fortify his war shield with the new found Mithril.
For the next few months, Deor is kept busy Blessing everything that comes to hand. He'll Bless both the beer and the brewery that makes it, since that's supposed to last longer, and he'll Bless the cornerstone not only of the House of Healing, but of the Tavern, City Hall, and any other building that holds still long enough. He'll copy his new spells into his spellbook, and try to get another spellbook bound and ready for use when this one is full. He'll spend his days in the Tavern, his books and parchments spread out over one table, copying and practicing his spells and enchantments, and his nights carefully probing the magics of the Ring of Power without touching it or using it. There ought to be something significant to learn by observation, research, and study.
Drinoleth listens attentively to what Thoroncir has to tell him. "Thank you for the suggestion and I would be most appreciative. Having an experienced swimmer with me would be very useful as I learn to better use a seal body. As a seal I cannot speak as a human, but perhaps you'll have a good eye for translating at the times when I can't afford to change forms back immediately?"
Gwaelur takes his time and is helped along by a pair of mages and Bitur and is fortunate to get an assist from Gimli himself. Mainly on his own but with the help of friends and a legend Gwaelur boosts the War Shield to +5.
Gilraen is unable to go with Thoroncir to Udar village as between missions she is busy helping to establish the House of Healing and gathering supplies and healing. The unexpected largess of gold helps tremendously and see added another 2000 of her own to it. She hopes to have several healers take up residence at Port Hatha. As a Port it will be far simpler to transport people and equipment.
Thoroncir can head over with a regular patrol and perhaps talk one of the interpreters into coming along. The village is doing fairly well at this point.
Benelhir Kanotir is quite please to hear of this lost Home of his people. Vanimelde's house, Aerdolan Kanotir on Amontari was lost even to legend in his family. Perhaps Princess Gilraen will take up residence there someday? On the mention of the Crest, “The crest is a sword and a plow crossed over a horse. There is a unicorn fighting a small dragon in the upper right corner and a small grove of trees in the lower left.” He says, “This I have seen before. It was it terrible shape but an old pennant among other old pennant displayed this crest. The ‘bring home the family’ seems pretty specific. But the Princess Gilraen is at least some part of the Kanotir Clan.”
Thoroncir is surprising useful in helping Drindoleth. Indeed wrapped tight in his Cloak he becomes like a large seal in the water. Something he did not seem to be fully aware of. Drindoleth as a shape changing Beorning recognized the Selkie ancestry in Thoroncir. The local seals took to the pair well and came to enjoy playing with Drindoleth as he played in the sea learning how to be a seal. Captain Thoroncir did not have as much time of course.
Drindoleth also finds his voice even as a seal. It will take time but he is training it slowly to speak. Drindoleth's understanding of seals of course grows swiftly.
Deor is quite popular indeed with the drinking establishments of the town and Gimli and Eldarion are pleased with his help. He scribes the new spells from the scrolls into his books and teaches Ithilneth what he can. As to the Ring, his study has just begun and his caution is wise. But he knows that when needed he can slip it on and gain several advantages and even enhance some of his spells.
Deor will also begin learning his first Shape Shift shape- a red-tailed hawk, just like his companion Folca.
Hopefully, given Deor's affinity for hawks, this will be a particularly easy one, especially because there's no one around to teach this particular spell to him, or help him work it out. That's the plan, anyway.
ETA: Oh, and Pest Resistance! He'll cast it over the village's fields and buildings against all the pests the villagers request.
Last edited by Appleciders; 22 Oct 2010 at 04:27 PM.
Having received reasonable payment and excellent demonstration of Ithilneth's devotion to Good, Deor will commence teaching her some spells.
"What interests you, Ithilnith? I don't really know what you already know, or what would suit your interests and needs. From what I know of you, spells like Comprehend Languages, Shield, Fly, Invisibility, Suggestion, Knock, and Levitate are all good bets and right up your alley. On the other hand, if you'd rather diversify into more aggressive magic, maybe Web, Dancing Lights, Lightning Bolt, Magic Missile, and Spider Climb are all useful. What interests you?"
And what's your MU level- I don't want to offer you things that you won't be able to use for ages.
"Mulligan, I may as well charge those sling-stones for you. We know that Magic Missile adds some damage, and that Long Light damages the walking dead upon impact-- I could also try Sleep or Dancing Lights to incapacitate enemies as they're struck, maybe. I'll do a little checking before trying it, but I think most of my new spells-- like Ice Storm and Cloudkill will either not work or destroy the stones as used. And you wanted a few refills for the injection dagger; I've got them right here for you."
The ring itself will be carried in a specially made pocket on the inside of his left sleeve, buttoned up tightly with three buttons, one made from a quill from Folca's feathers, one made from a tightly wound strip of fabric woven by his mother, and one made from a stone from Rohan. That way, the ring is symbolically bound by love of family, love of freedom, and love of homeland. Deor's other specialty is fire, of course, so as he places the ring inside the pocket, he'll drench the pocket in the local cinnamon wine and slowly dry the wine off with a candle flame, with (if they'll consent) Gilraen and Gil-Gandel performing their various incantations to strengthen the spell. That ought to bind it as well as it can be bound.
Finally, in order to make the best use of his staff, wand, and shield, Deor will begin to fashion a cord to sling his staff across his back when in battle. He'll braid it from horsehair, gathered from the party's mounts, especially those Rohirric mounts from his uncle Aldor's farm, in honor of his family's Rohirric lineage, and he'll bind it around the staff itself using pinfeathers from Folca at the top of the staff and tailfeathers just below the midpoint (gathered only after she's molted them, naturally), to help bind the staff more closely to himself. If he's going to carry this evil ring, he's also going to ground himself in the clean earth and the strong traditions of the Rohirrim to balance it.
Deor will then fashion a series of loops inside the right sleeve of his robe (Deor is left-handed) to hold his wand, should he need a place to stash it when he switches back to his staff. He'll likewise fashion a strap to sling his shield when he's carrying his staff. Hopefully, he can switch back and forth easily between his wand-and-shield combination and his staff, or at least easily carry the lot.
Thoroncir has fun swimming with Drinoleth and communing with the seals; he hasn't been swimming in quite awhile and it takes him back to his boyhood. He has always loved the sea, and having spent so long in the arid interior of Harad it's especially good to be back in the water.
He is glad to tell Benelhir all he remembers of the wonderful old house of Vanimelde, including the burial vault and treasure trove below. He agrees that it's quite possible that Princess Gilraen will someday grace the house as its royal resident; he does not say aloud that he also hopes he will be there with her.
Thoroncir would indeed like to go with an interpreter and a patrol back to Udar village. Anyone else want to pay a return visit? And has Falina made a full recovery? Perhaps Theogrim would like to see her again? (See posts 431, 433).
Interesting stuff, Appleciders. Well done.
Last edited by Elendil's Heir; 22 Oct 2010 at 06:23 PM.
"I would be interested in returning to Udar village for a short visit," says Drinoleth when Thoroncir brings up the suggestion. "Though I did as much as I could for their crops and orchards before leaving, their fate has weighed on my mind. It would be good to see them again."
I would be delighted to learn how our endeavours have borne fruit there - and perhaps it will ease them, as they work on rebuilding their fortunes, to learn how their land will no longer be troubled by certain horrors. Also I have had much opportunity to learn and adapt local songs, and they might like to hear them.
Before we go, I would like to convert most of my cash on hand into something more portable, as well as suitable for occasions when I perform before important personages. The local charities have already been well supported and I see no reason to try to one-up my generous fellows. If either of our good Dwarves be skilled with finework then perhaps they would like to take the job on, with raw materials bought by me; if not, I would value their opinion of the worthiness of any goldsmiths in town. I would like something, a headpiece of suitable design, from which precious stones can be removed at need, to be spent or bestowed as gifts (or replaced maybe by stones of greater worth).
Librarians rule, Oook
Benelhir says, "Thank you Thoroncir for turning down the Sword. I feel we were meant for each other and he shall be my boon companion." In your mild confusion he then says, "Ah, the Sword itself gave away your secret. In the main army of the King and often with him is one called Falcon Master. He is perhaps the most senior at least in warfare and Rangering of the house of Kanotir. He should be the most interested in your story. He is recently down from the North himself. I believe he is most interested in the ancient homes of our people and is helping to repopulate Angmar."
Theogrim will bow out and he is preparing to ride out to rejoin the main army. So a number of party members head for the village of Udar and find it in much better shape. Drindoleth can once again do much to help the suffering with the use of plant growth spells. Falina is recovered by the time of the visit. Gil-Gandel came as the interpreter. The stories of the Undead being destroyed and a new more benevolent King for Port Hatha are both received well. They eradication of the trolls was already a huge boon to the village. Many single but older or injured vets have been assigned to the Udar garrison. A stone and wood fort is the barracks of the garrison. Plans for a King's Inn are laid out.
Mulligan and Ithilneth both need to reply to Deor of course. On the 10 stones Sleep was not an option. Deor is correct about Fireballs and Lightning Bolts. Magic Missile appears to be the most useful overall. It helps as 1st levels store for 8 days. Higher level spells for far less time. Also each Magic Missile spell charges up 4 stones, so very efficient. Ithilneth is able to use up to sixth level spells and has easily paid enough to pick up at least 11 spell levels of spells and up to 33 spells levels. I would be the utility spells will interest her greatly. She would need special instruction to cast Fireball or Lightning. But Fly and Tongues should come more naturally to her.
Bitur is a toy smith among other trades and may well wish to practice his trade and thus could provide Gil-Gandel some relief from his gold. 2241 gold is considerable, he has another 4000 in trade gems and jewelery already. Otherwise no more gems or jewelry could be found for a fair price. He would need to look to potions or small items of magic perhaps.
The party working out of Port Hatha goes on for months. News arrives on November 7th that should at least keep Drindoleth intrigued for a bit longer. Far more details about the Mysterious Forest to the south. If there is news of Ents or Ent-Wives in the South this is the best lead yet.
Near the end of the third age a large human intrusion of the woods happened. (2982 TA).
It was a large army with dozens of Oliphants. Nighttime raids disrupted these armies but still they built forts on the edges of the woods. When the Oliphants would not fight for them against the unknown terrors of the wood, the army of Raj turned to other methods. They used fire often and fires were an effective tool.
Then starting in the camp on night, the guards were slept in one large area and a senior advisor disappeared from the command tent. Dozens of men died by unknown swords in their sleep. Something affected their food and water that would cause stomach ailments and drowsiness. The advisor was never seen but the camp’s captain was found wandering outside of the camp all but bereft of his memory and speaking of the horrors that awaited if the army did not leave.
Four days later at the central fortress the men were put to sleep. Near the King’s very door though stood one that was fighting the sleep. Four arrows pierced this huge guard who had raised hue and cry and appeared to have charged towards the unknown enemy. The door unlocked and with a song the wooden bar slipped loose. With a dull clatter the bar was gone. The door opened to find the King cowering behind a desk. “What manner of being dares assault King Melliot?”
The response, “I am the spirit of the haunted woods. Your people knew for thousands of years to leave the sacred woods alone but you sent men that brought fire and axes. We tried gentle methods to turn them back but you ordered them to press harder and burn faster so I have left my grove and come for you directly. One last time I tell you in person, leave the woods alone or you yourself shall pay the price.” Something then knocked him senseless but he suffered nothing worse than some headaches. When he awoke he found a lightly jeweled sword of fine and alien missing. This was rumored to be a Powerful sword of Sharpness.
The general’s fort near the woods had suffered such larger mayhem that few had slept for the next week. The men were digging trenches, standing fire watches, trying to stop the ghost like beings that slipped in and out of their fort like the walls were non-existent. All activity stopped though shortly before the orders from the King to cease operations and bother the woods no more.
That is quite a story. We should go, for this may be one of the mysteries of this age or any other, and whatever creatures we find it may be that I, who have dwelt long in the Golden Wood and in East Lorien and am a pupil of one of the greatest lords of nature on either side of the Sea, will find some song to sing them.
Librarians rule, Oook
If the Ent-wives were of this forest (or even just more Ents) they might have tremendous information about the South and the Southrons. If we can be spared from the main body of the army, I'd love to investigate.
Drinoleth is deeply moved by this news, but torn.
"I feel I must go as soon as possible, though I fear by doing so I am shirking the duty I feel to the army. If we can be spared at all, I am quest bound to investigate. As some of you may recall, I have undertaken to search for the Entwives on behalf of Quickbeam and Fangorn himself. I had heard it said before that they may have fled to the South, though others have said they fled to northern Eriador or were even destroyed utterly with their gardens in the War of the Last Alliance. Yet hearing this compels me to waste no more time with stories and rumors. I must follow and learn more."
So now they are just dirt-covered English people in fur pelts with credit cards.
"That is an intriguing story, and I am more than willing to look into its veracity if we are thus bade by the Crown Prince," says Sir Thoroncir. And if the fair Gilraen will be going too, he thinks.
He is pleased to find Udar village doing so well, and to have the chance to speak at some length with Benelhir, Ranger of the North, who rather impresses him.
Mulligan is quite happy for the gems to be blessed with Magic Missile, although if Dispel Magic can also work in them, a couple of those might be useful as well.
Rorimac is interested in the story especially as it means a chance to visit a new land, see a new horizon and meet new people.
In the land of the blind, the one-arm man is king.
"Deor, I prefer skills that are more crafting than striking. Things such as Message, Spider Climb, Shield and Levitate. Also, Tongues, Detect Lies, Advanced Ventriloquism, Invisibility 10' Radius, Water Breathing. And perhaps still beyond my current ability, but maybe not for long, Mass Sleep," says Ithilneth.
Ithilneth takes pause on hearing the tale of the forest spirits. "Of tree-herders and garden-wardens I have heard little since ages. Such matters from the past can cause much heartache in the present. But we have dealt with the darkness of Men, we can see to the sorrows of others as well."
Gwaelur is lost in thought. "This does not seem to be a place where someone wielding an axe would be welcome. However, if the party decides, I will lend my other skills in any way I can."
Up with your beard, Durin's Son! Was not Fangorn himself mollified to learn that Gimli's axe was for orc-necks and not trees? I fear we will travel far and see much ere we be blessed with many days when there is naught for your axe to cleave righteously.
Last edited by Malacandra; 25 Oct 2010 at 04:50 PM.
Librarians rule, Oook
Ceol will split his charitable donation between the fund for poor riders to become Knights of the Mark, and for the House of Healing in Port Hatha.
The Prince calls the remaining party together and the senior of the Sea-Knights. "The King hopes that you will be willing to take on another mission for the free peoples. If willing we need you to be ready to embark once again on The Elendil and bring your considerable talents to where they are needed most. We think we have a chance to avoid a war completely and gain a new ally. In doing so there will be a chance to destroy a dark oppression over the people of the south. A Cult to the old Dark Lord and an order of evil wizards. Are you willing?"
Ceol bows to the Prince. "I go where Eonwë guides me, and I will have to pray upon this...but I sense that this is a more than worthy mission, and it is my hope that I may be able to continue to serve you, with these whom I now call friends."
Deor is definitely willing.
Replying to the Prince:
"I undertook adventuring again because I wanted to once again aid the world beyond Erebor and because a significant part of myself missed the excitement of it all. My ultimate destination will be to return home someday, but for now I go where I feel I am needed the most. For now, I feel that place is aiding Gil-Gandel and his party--not to mention that I get to fight beside Gwaelur again, and this time without being under siege. So where the party goes, I will go."
Regarding his activities during the down time:
Bitur will lend his engineering talents to any repairs the town needs for free. All he asks in exchange is for use of a forge fit for a dwarf to ply his trade in. He will happily assist Gwaelur and Gil-Gandel with their requests as well. When he has down time, he will have the toys of Erebor on display in the forge for the children (and any young-at-heart adults) to play with. He does this both to entertain and to advertise his own toymaking ability. He makes it clearly apparent to those who inquire, but never in an unkindly manner, that the toys from Erebor have value beyond what one can put a price on, since they are from a time long ago and he knows of none who can currently recreate them. As a result, they are not for sale. But he stresses that he can make more than adequate facsimiles of those specific toys and any other ones of similar ilk. He'll charge a reasonable market value for the effort. He also will regale any children who are interested in the whole process with stories of both how he makes the toys and what life is like under the mountain, particularly those involving the dwarven children of Erebor for whom he also crafted toys.
Last edited by Hoopy Frood; 26 Oct 2010 at 09:25 PM.
Thoroncir also bows to Crown Prince Eldarion and says, "I too will go, my lord. I look forward to another adventure with my friends and companions of Gil-Gandel's Band, and will do all I can to be worthy of the charge laid upon us."
Drindoleth bows to the Prince. "There is no question for me, my lord. I will go gladly, for I am grateful for the noble pursuit and the company that surrounds me."
So now they are just dirt-covered English people in fur pelts with credit cards.
You see, my Lord and Prince, with what willing hands and hearts the Valar have gifted me. Was ever Captain or King so well-served? We are ready to depart at any time.
Librarians rule, Oook
Thoroncir looks expectantly at Gilraen.
"Prince Eldarion, it would be a pleasure to serve the needs of your kingdom," responds Ithilneth with grace.
Sala, "I should be honored to continue to serve, but what remuneration will be ours if I may be so bold?"
Gilraen looks back at Thoroncir slightly confused. She then says with a laugh in her voice, "I will be going, I did not realize any would question it. But brother are you coming? It does not sound like it."
Eldarion replies, "I am not, I have been tasked with bringing Hatha under the rule of Gondor. You will officially be under Captain Meriadoc at first but I believe you will be meeting with a direct representative of the King that is on their way south. I believe it goes without saying that we have complete faith in Meriadoc and his group as we do with your own group Gilraen." He turns to the rest of the group. "I thank all of you for your willingness. I can promise all of you not only the regards of Gondor and Arnor and the King and Queen but in addition it is only fair a monetary award goes with you. You will apparently be arriving at a great trade port so we will send you south with gold to spend. Even in spending this gold you shall be helping the Kingdoms. Learn what is available and what they are interested in themselves and spreading gold among merchants always builds good will. I believe for past, present and near future service that 4000 gold pieces each should accomplish much. I am only sorry it is not more."
Ostoher*, one of Prince Eldarion’s chief advisors and a Ranger of the North says, “Be careful though, this is not Minas Tirith or Arnor. There are by reports of professional thieves, flim-flam men and other dangers of the ordinary nature. The necromancers will do what they can to stop this mission. So travel in safety and never in groups of less than 3 unless using great stealth yourself. I would say most of the time, stick together.”
* Courtesy of Elendil's Heir and Ostoher (Quenya, "fortress lord," named after an early King of Gondor)
That's one heck of an assignment. "Spend that giant sack of money on something you want! That's an order!" Can do.
What Deor actually says is "Certainly, sir, I would be most pleased to help."
Thoroncir's mind wanders a bit....
Last edited by What Exit?; 28 Oct 2010 at 07:29 AM. Reason: Placeholder to push Thoroncir's story to top of next page.
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