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Reading Room - Archived Games (data may be deleted) => Chronicles of the North [LotR CODA] => Chapter 12: Troubles from Home => Topic started by: tomcat on Aug 09, 2015, 05:13 PM

Title: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 09, 2015, 05:13 PM
The Sindar peered about him with an ability that was beyond that of his companions - sensing around them the power of Middle-earth, both shadow and light. The Elf near swooned as he did, for the presence of darkness was almost palpable and Edrahil knew that he, too, was being sensed. An evil will abandoned the blighted woods and bore down on him for mere moments, but in his mind he heard the screamed words...

"BEGONE! THESE BE MY WOODS AND MY TIME! THINE HAS PASSED HERE WITH THE AGES!"

The echoes of the words still rang within his mind and the chill of darkness crept over his heart, but then it was gone and with it fell the twisted tangle of blighted wood. Edrahil's other companions looked with surprise as the foul tree spirits abandoned their physical form and left naught but piles of vine and branch. Even Witherfinger was surprised by the collapse of the creature before her, "HOOOM TOOOM DEE DOOOM! DARKNESS RUNS BEFORE THE LIGHT OF THE CHILDREN OF THE DAWN." She looked at Edrahil, "WHERE HAVE THE ENTS GONE?"

Confusion filled the Entwife's face once more as she looked on the Men, Dwarf, and Elf. She turned and began to stride off into the woods of the Nin-in-Eliph.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 10, 2015, 05:47 AM
Durgil was stunned, bewildered, and dumbfounded so at the development he nearly dropped his bow.  "Edrahil... what make you of this?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Stefan on Aug 10, 2015, 07:05 AM
Nain looked down at the tree that he's just hacked large rents into.  It looked almost as if the soul of the tree had been sucked out, the graying bark seemed almost ashen.  Not as if it had died from the blows of weapons but from far more sinister power.

"Somethin's nah right about this. We did not kill these things." 

He shuddered at the thought of what being might have the power to pull the soul directily out of a living creature.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Aug 10, 2015, 10:11 AM
Edrahil, shuddering at the brush with such a malevolent force, turned to Durgil.

"I know not, good friend. I thought only to see if other evil awaited us in these woods while our attention was held by these blighted old trees. It has fled for the moment, but perhaps it is only gathering strength to eject us from what it thinks are its woods. Witherfinger seemed to think the spirits fled before the light - though I confess her last question mystifies me." He looks at the crumpled trees. "Were these once ents? Is that the meaning of her last question? Yet she has now left twice in a great hurry - I would not advise us to tarry overlong in this place."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: sdrotar on Aug 10, 2015, 12:30 PM
Quote from: Rothesay on Aug 10, 2015, 10:11 AM"Yet she has now left twice in a great hurry - I would not advise us to tarry overlong in this place."

"Then let's move," Dirnhael suggested. "I have no desire to discover what awaits us if we linger."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Aug 10, 2015, 12:45 PM
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 10, 2015, 12:30 PM"Then let's move," Dirnhael suggested. "I have no desire to discover what awaits us if we linger."
"I agree, captain." Edrahil repeats the words he heard in his head in case he was the only one. "We might follow Witherfinger, but there is something of the Shadow about this business. I do not accept it is his time and I am loath to leave this malevolence unchallenged. Still, it ought to be at a time and place of our choosing. I shall follow where you lead."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: sdrotar on Aug 10, 2015, 01:04 PM
Quote from: Rothesay on Aug 10, 2015, 12:45 PM
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 10, 2015, 12:30 PM"Then let's move," Dirnhael suggested. "I have no desire to discover what awaits us if we linger."
"I agree, captain." Edrahil repeats the words he heard in his head in case he was the only one. "We might follow Witherfinger, but there is something of the Shadow about this business. I do not accept it is his time and I am loath to leave this malevolence unchallenged. Still, it ought to be at a time and place of our choosing. I shall follow where you lead."

"This malevolence may be beyond us," Dirnhael warned. "We are stout... but quite mortal. And we have a village of Men to save; one under siege by a mortal such as us."
He grinned like a wolf stalking his prey. "That challenge, I relish."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Aug 10, 2015, 09:55 PM
Celdarhil kicked at thr branches and brambles at his feet, his sword still in his hand. Satisified that they were no longer moving he looked at his companions.

"The ill wind of the east often blows strong, but then stops. The lesson is not that the wind will not blow again."

"Our purpose is not complete, we came her to find the men of the village. Though the evil be lesser or greater we must push on. Let us burn the husks of these creatures, and taking flaming brands press further into the wood."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 11, 2015, 03:54 AM
"Come! We must move away from here quickly and quietly," called Durgil.  "The battle is sure to bring the attention of others of a less desirable nature."  He gathers up their guides and prepares to move as soon as possible.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 11, 2015, 08:24 AM
It was Fengel who spoke next, "Durgil...we must remember the words of the tree creature. The boat with our friends was seen continuing north. Remember? She pointed further up the river. Would it be wise to go on foot through this quag, or to have our remount the boats?"

:ooc: this is just a GM reminder, worked in through an NPC.  ;D


QuoteEdrahil spoke next and his voice came like a song, "No, we are not of those Men. Nor do we endure Orcs, as well. We seek those that had done this for they also harmed the people across the river - some of our people were slain at their hands, just like your trees. Four others came before us... did you see them pass? For certain they would not have noticed you. What is your name, lady shepherd?"

The Ent's voice softened to the sound of wind through leaves, "NAME?" The word drew out like a long breeze. "They called me Willow...but now I am Witherfinger. All is dying. All is dead. No more Ents to be found. The children have walked into the shadow of the wood. TOOOM BOOOM-TI-TUM! Slugs rot, insects bore...weakening our tough hides. A storm is coming. See your friends?"

The companions looked to one another as the Ent seemed to talk to them, then to itself, and then to stare off into a distant time. Fengel spoke, "I fear it is not of a right mind." To which Edrahil gestured to not speak of such things. The Sindar spoke again in the sing-songy voice, "Yes, our friends...did they come through here, or pass?"

"North, against the river's flow. A boat passed with four of the short-lived ones aboard. Further north..."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 11, 2015, 09:44 AM
"We need speed and silence and the boats are our best choice for both," replied Durgil after a moment's thought.  "We at least now know we are on the right path."

"Or so I hope," he thinks.

"Gentlemen, we seek your expertise once more," the young Dunadan lord says looking to the slightly unnerved river-men.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 11, 2015, 10:53 AM
With a nod, the older of the two affirmed their resolution to continue - but both were scared. Orcs and Wild Men were one thing, but to see walking, talking trees and fell-spirits from milk-mothers tales...that was another. As a group, they turned their backs on the dead grove and left Witherfinger to her wanderings. They clambered into the boats and Matty and Del resumed their places, poling the craft upstream.

With the fell-creatures gone, the sounds of wild life resumed. Frogs and bugs croaked and buzzed, while birds of prey soared above on the updrafts. Long-legged heron prowled the shallow riverbank and only casually glanced as the boat passed. Finally, too, were the swans - as before, the elegant fowl floated atop the water, amongst the tall reed-grass and seemed to herald a better time - a brighter day. The Noldor had made this their home so long ago, and the grace of that folk seemed mirrored in the great birds.

Nerves calmed, but caution remained. The men worked diligently to move the boat north against both the current of the Bruinen and the confluence of the Glanduin. The small craft was pushed further out into the river, but Matty would strong-arm them back on to their course.

At last, they came to another large artery of the Glanduin entering into the Bruinen, "This is the last of the main branches of the confluence. If we go further north, we will pass the Glanduin and come to the rapids at Bare Tor. We will not be able to go further. I can only believe that Guilin would also have gone no further."

Fengel broke in, "Indeed, they did go no further!" He pointed and each of the companions followed his gaze to a small boat that bumped against the shore as it was caught within a calm eddy. Del quickly maneuvered their own craft to the shore and they saw two dead men within, black shafts protruding from their bodies - neither was Guilin.

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/52987685/boat.jpg)
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Stefan on Aug 12, 2015, 04:28 AM
Nain would gladly have walked the rest of the way but his two companions made the decision and he had little choice but to go along with them.  He sulked in the boat while they moved slowly upriver and was elated for just a moment when their boatman said that this was the end of their journey, that was till he saw the bodies of the dead men.  This looked to be the work of those they'd fought on the river back.

"It looks like we've come to the right place.  Did they leave any sign of which direction they've gone."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 12, 2015, 06:21 AM
"Wait a moment, let me look around," cautioned Durgil.  He got out of the boat into the knee-deep water, bow in hand and arrow nocked.  He proceeded to scour the area, seeing if he could discern what might have happened here by footprints and such left behind.

 :ooc:  Do the arrows look like they are from orcs or from the men that we fought with the other night?
 :00:
Observe (Spot) -  2d6+5 : 5, 2 + 5, total 12

 :00:
Track -  2d6+3 : 3, 1 + 3, total 7

Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 12, 2015, 08:35 AM
:ooc: The arrows are definitely orc in make, Matt.

Even with your 7 search, the TN is 5 to see if there are any tracks...many booted feet moved around in this area recently (make it about 8 hours ago). By the imprints, it was no less than twenty.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 12, 2015, 08:55 AM
"This isn't good," reports Durgil. "The arrows are of orc-make and it looks like many men or orcs were here about a half of day ago and the trail is getting cold.  Search the bodies for anything else, I'll scout ahead."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Aug 14, 2015, 07:44 AM
"This journey has been frought with unexpected peril. You should not go alone Durgil."

Meanwhile, Edrahil will take a closer look at the two dead men, attempting to ascertain who they might have been and where they were from.

 :00: if needed:
Rolled 2d6 : 4, 6, total 10


"At least," he says, "we cannot leave them in this state."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Aug 14, 2015, 01:30 PM
Celdarhil spoke in the Sindarin tongue, the one that came easiest to him, "they are riverfolk from down below. The captain of their band took them up river while you lay hurt. My guess is that there are two more about, most likely captured."

"Perhaps our two guides can attend to them in the manner of their people? The trail does not look old, perhaps if we hurry we can redeem our erstwhile companions. What say you Nain? Feeling better with firmer ground?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Stefan on Aug 17, 2015, 10:13 AM
"Aye, tis good ta be back on firm earth.  Even so, ta walk away from th' River would make me feel even better."

Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 17, 2015, 12:20 PM
"Your thoughtfulness is duly noted.  Are you volunteering your services to join me? or you Dirnhael?" quipped Durgil. "Decide quickly."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Aug 20, 2015, 04:23 PM
"Sudden haste will not avail us. If they were taken alive it wasfor a purpose, lets move with a purpose, but also with a plan."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 27, 2015, 10:58 AM
Leaving the two rivermen to tend to the fallen, the companions began to follow the path left by heavy-shodded feet. They entered into the treeline and were soon out of sight of the river, but not out of sound - the forest was alive with the many creatures that lived there. Crickets and tree frogs trilled, while others croaked in deep baritone calls and still other sounds came from the low shrubs that grew in abundance. Lastly, the sound of moving water filled the area where the two rivers became one.

The ground was firm and it was apparent that this was a well-used trail. The companions looked closely at the tracks and guessed there was at least two-hours lead on them. They would need to make haste, but also be cautious for surely an ambush could be well set. And so, with Durgil leading - an arrow knocked to his bowstring - they made their way east into the Nîn-in-Eilph.

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/52987685/nin-in-eilph.jpg)

As they marched, the oppressive feel of the forest began to fade and though it was dim under the boughs, a fresh breeze moved the air. The men and dwarf began to question their senses as the sounds of tinkling chimes carried over the far-off roar of rapids. Dirnhael shook his head when he heard faint laughter and singing in a tongue that he did not understand but was filled with gladness. The memories of his prior visit to Eregion came to his mind and how the land was still haunted by the Noldor who had lived here. No, that was not it, he told himself. T'was not that the land was haunted, but that it did not forget the powerful Elves that had called this home so long ago.

Edrahil's voice broke the enchanting sounds when he espied a stone-laid path that branched from the foot-trail upon which they walked. He pointed and the other companions could now see a path - or road - that was laid with perfect fitting stones that allowed no weed. Though it was covered over by fern, dirt, and other debris, it was apparent that no foot had walked it in a long time. It was certain that the orcs who had made their current trail had avoided it.

The Sindar could see the fine stonework that rivaled even that of the Dwarves, and he knew he looked upon the works of his ancient kin. This was a Noldorin footpath and he wondered where it led.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: sdrotar on Aug 28, 2015, 07:41 AM
"These lands hold so many memories, both good and ill... but they are not poisoned yet."
The thought heartened Dirnhael as the men trod along the ancient path.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 28, 2015, 09:23 AM
"Defeating this pestilence will serve to keep this land from further corruption.  All the more reason to route the enemy," says Durgil.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Aug 28, 2015, 01:08 PM
Edrahil peers down the ancient path of his kith and kin wistfully. "I would gladly follow this cheerful trail where none have gone for so long to see what wonders it may lead to. I doubt not it would bring joy to our hearts. Yet, our foul quarry did not go this way - no doubt for fear of what we would fain embrace. Another time perhaps ..."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Aug 30, 2015, 07:16 AM
It came on the Sindar, as it had done those many times in the past, a feeling of transition from one sphere to another. He knew he still stood on the firm ground of Middle-earth, but his eyes saw...a future? a past?

Surely it was the past, for before him the pathway was clean and free of vegetation growing over it. The white stones were bright in a daylight that was not...of this day. He heard the sound of laughter and just down the path stood three tall Elves - Noldor - tall and graceful, their hair jet black. Two were female and one male, and they laughed at some conversation or song that did not translate across the years. He wanted to go to them, to be with them, to be back among his folk when their powers were greatest here upon the mortal lands. To talk with them and learn, to see their arts and crafts before it was all lost to time and the Shadow.

Only a few Noldor still remained within the bounds of Middle-earth and Edrahil had had the chance to meet some of them during his time in Rivendell, or when they came to the shores of Lindon to visit Círdan to make council, or to take the ships to Aman. But this was different - it was as if a door was open to a time to which he could return. Again, his mind told him the vision was not real, merely the foresight that he would at times experience, but the draw was strong. Maybe because it was the land of Eregion itself, enhancing the illusion, that it seemed he could make this a reality.

The Elves were walking away, disappearing behind a small bend where the path led between trees. Edrahil reached out and stepped a foot onto the old trail. In the distance, one of the beautiful Noldorin females turned back to him, smiled, and beckoned...and then it was gone.

The Sindar felt the firm hand of his friend touch his shoulder, "Edrahil? Are you okay?"

Edrahil stood there, his hand outstretched to the overgrown path, and Fengel was at his side with questions in his eyes.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 01, 2015, 09:42 AM
"I ... I do not know."

Edrahil thought on the vision he had just experienced, taking an involuntary step onto the ancient path, untrodden over countless years. He had not known - had he? - the three Noldor in his vision, but they touched something within his heart. And had not one of them beckoned? If this was foretelling, why did it seem so much like the past? The Eldar shook his head and stood taller.

"Something of importance lies up this path - I know not what it is, and it is certain Guilin and his men are not to be found this way. I saw three of the deep elves and one beckoned to me. My people often leave traces in the very leaves and roots where they have dwelled that are but pleasant after-echoes, yet such a vision is too powerful to ignore."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 01, 2015, 10:04 AM
"Maybe its the land's way of providing us aid?" pondered Durgil.  "We've had one surprise this day already, what's one more?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 01, 2015, 10:27 AM
Celdrahil looked at the path and studied it. He was one of the Elendili, a pure blood of the west from a noble line of Andúnië and so though slight he too was connected to the three great house of the Eldar and Edain.

"My heart leapt when I first heard about the Elven tower, then we saw the swans, the old mother tree, and now this path. What's more Edrahil has never steered us wrong with his councils, let's take the path, and let us do it with speed lest it make for a delay in tracking these orcs. Not even I could miss this path at a run, what say you Nain, you care for a sprint?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 02, 2015, 10:07 AM
The decision to explore the path and Edrahil's vision was decided, and so they left the orc trail behind. The Sindar led the group, his feet softly padding on the ancient stonework that was set in the ground. Each of the companions were reasonably sure that such a path could not lead to danger - at least dangers of the Shadow - but still they kept a tight grip on their weapons.

The stone path turned to the east, and then back to the west, as if it weaved through a landscape that was no longer present. At times, it disappeared under the swamp water and the company needed to take care by moving on outcrops of firm ground. All around, the trees grew in abundance and concealed whatever goal to which their path was taking them. Edrahil mused that when the Noldor lived here, the fens of Swanfleet were not covered in wood - at least not to this extent. An Elf could stand on the boundaries of western Eregion and see the shining caps of the Misty Mountains.

But now, the woods were dense and branches reached out to cling and grasp. Fengel cursed a time or two as his tunic was snagged on a low-hanging branch. Once more the cobbled path receded under water and the company had to mount a small, but high-topped island. Once on the top, they gasped as the path continued up out of the water and into a ruin of ages past.

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/52987685/ruin.jpg)
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 02, 2015, 01:13 PM
Edrahil gazes at the ancient ruin of Eregion with both wonder and sorrow, knowing many of his kin fell in this place. And yet, there is a peace about it.

"The Lord Elrond fought near here in the age passed, at the time the Dark Lord was revealed not as the friend he had disguised himself but as the foe he had ever been." He bent down and touched the stones, running his fingers over them. "They speak of elves still, and not the destruction wrought by hate."

 :ooc: Does Edrahil know where we are?

Hollin Lore:  :00:
Rolled 2d6+4 : 2, 4 + 4, total 10
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 03, 2015, 06:57 AM
Durgil can feel the draw of history, the pull of great beauty and sadness.  There is an air of familiarity here, reminding him of Rivendell, but it is fleeting.  "Edrahil, what is this place?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 03, 2015, 11:13 AM
Edrahil could not be certain, and he told them so as he proclaimed that this might be Tir-nîn-dúven.

Much of the lore of Eregion and where its folk lived was lost to time. The destruction by Sauron had been very complete and the flight of the Elves to Rivendell and Lindon had left most of the  knowledge behind. What was known was mostly contained within the memories of the few remaining Noldor that still lived within the realm of Middle-earth, and who had resided or visited the ancient Elven home. Still, Edrahil had done some study on the topic and had traveled the lands of Hollin more than once in his long lifetime, and he knew that the Noldor had built small fortifications - if they could be called thus - along the western fences of their land. Tir-nîn-dúven was more a weigh station for travelers that housed a small contingent of the Elves to keep watch. During the time when Eregion was affluent in the world, there was much trade and travel between the Free-Folk.

It was a much more peaceful time, and so the western guard of Eregion were open settlements of varied sizes that welcomed Númenóreans who would come from Lond Daer in the south, or other Elves that traveled from Lindon. There were the same such stations on the eastern borders where the Noldor made trade with the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm. Edrahil could see by the remaining structures that it was a very open defense and spoke of the good relations between the people.

There was a tall, open gazebo made of marble that now looked skeletal with no roof, which sat on a patio of stone. Underneath it was a broken fountain, though spring water still frothed forth from its spout. Broken structures stood on either side of the patio, which was enclosed by a wall that was mostly tumbled - only its arch entrance still stood to speak of the masons that built it. The two buildings, though roofs broken, still stood on their foundations.

A gust of wind blew and with it came a distant, ghostly chatter of laughter.

:ooc: I have attached a simple drawing of the western fence guard - it is how it would have looked in its prime.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 03, 2015, 11:42 AM
"Make no mistake, this is a wondrous place indeed but were you, we, drawn here for a reason?" pondered Durgil.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 05, 2015, 12:23 PM
"I believe we were drawn here for a purpose, my friends, but what it is remains hidden."

Edrahil looks around, feeling drawn to the spring. "The water flows even now as it has for centuries."

Cupping his hand, he catches some of the flow, trying to determine if it is still as it was.

 :ooc: Sense Power:  :00:
Rolled 2d6+6 : 5, 4 + 6, total 15
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 07, 2015, 05:29 PM
The water is wonderfully cool and clear. The Sindar takes a sip of the liquid and his body feels refreshed, as if the weariness of the road is washed away. Edrahil steps back from the basin and he feels better - his wounds not aching so much.

He looked around the ancient ruin and felt the power of his kin emanating from the small structure with the round domed roof. The dome was made of pounded copper, but it was now green with oxidization and decay. When it had finally collapsed in from its own weight, the dome cracked. Still, the walls of the structure keep the broken roof at an angle, which would allow someone to pass inside.

:ooc: The water provides a one-time healing effect to any injured characters equal to the PC's Vitality.

I already adjusted Edrahil's wounds.  :csu:
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 08, 2015, 05:36 AM
Seeing his friend take a sip of the water from the stream, he felt compelled to do so as well.  It wasn't until now that he realized how parched he was.  Bending down to take a drink, he never felt so dirty, so unclean in place of forgotten beauty. Gingerly he dipped his hands in and instantly felt a refreshing of his body.  And when he brought the water to his lips and when he drank, not only did his body feel anew but also his spirit, previously unrealized as parched.  Smiling, "Take a drink, everyone take a drink."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 08, 2015, 06:29 AM
:ooc: Hey Matt, did you recover your hit points? Let me know.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 08, 2015, 07:57 AM
 :ooc: No, I can't get access to the site due to weird firewall issues.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 08, 2015, 08:25 AM
:ooc: That's weird. Have you tried different browsers?

Durgil  :csu:
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 08, 2015, 08:42 AM
Quote from: tomcat on Sep 08, 2015, 06:29 AM:ooc: Hey Matt, did you recover your hit points? Let me know.
:ooc: Not sure which Matt you mean, but I did!
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 08, 2015, 09:06 AM
:ooc: Ok - forgot we have two Matt's now, everyone.  ;D

I will refer to you guys as MattK or MattR accordingly.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 08, 2015, 10:01 AM
Celdrahil relaxed as they entered into the stone circle, going so far as to unstring his bow.

"There is a place like this in Dol Amroth, or so I have been told."

The knight paused and then his voice was lifted up in the tongue of elves, though whether it was the place they were in or the nature of the song itself, all those present seemed to grasp the meaning.

"Far, far beyond the island
 We dwelt in shades of twilight
 Through dread and weary days
 Through grief and endless pain

 It lies unknown
 The land of mine
 A hidden gate
 To save us from the shadow fall
 The lord of water spoke
 In the silence
 Words of wisdom
 I've seen the end of all
 Be aware the storm gets closer"


The knight shook his head in wonderment, "Ulmo has often been the friendliest to the Children of Eru, and has shown favor on my line and kin. This water is here to strengthen us, but also to warn us that great trial is coming. As he blessed and armed Tuor of old, now he has shown his blessing upon us as well. Let us make a brief search and use this height to see what yet may be seen."

Spring to action again the knight of Gondor began to explore the area, and cast his gaze about looking for further sign of the their quarry.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 09, 2015, 07:02 AM
 :ooc: I'm at work, likely something to do with it.  ;)

Now refreshed and rejuvenated, Durgil takes a moment to just marvel at the place and then joins Celdrahil in looking around.

 :ooc:

:00:
Observe (Spot) -  2d6+5 : 1, 6 + 5, total 12

 :00:
Observe (Power) -  2d6+3 : 2, 3 + 3, total 8

Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 09, 2015, 09:43 AM
Dúnedain and Sindar began to move about the small patio and fount in search of...whatever might be the reason for drawing them to this place.

Fengel, seeing his companions invigorated by the water that flowed, cupped his hands and filled them. He took a long draft and even splashed some over his head. The Éothraim looked at the fountain in wonder - not because he had not seen the powers of the elves already, but because their song still rang in the water that flowed. It was a good feeling that entered his heart. He pulled himself away, re-donned his helm and began to search about with his friends.

The grounds around the patio were cluttered with brush and other plant-life, along with broken masonry of the old guard house - but naught else. The companions then turned to the buildings to see what they might contain. The one that sat to the right of the fountain, with a large, collapsed copper roof, had a door that sat partially ajar. Celdrahil put his shoulder into it and it creaked open to reveal a partially lit room. Paintings of times past were faded on walls that were cracked from time, and molded over by the fens. If furniture had been in the room, it was long gone. Edrahil guessed at the purpose of the building to be a residence - or office - of those who would have been living here. It might have even housed visitors that passed by on the occasion.

Where the domed roof lay angled and partially collapsed in, a hole in the floor could be seen. Stairs led down into pure darkness.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 09, 2015, 12:31 PM
"Friends! Here! A stair into the darkness." The Dunedan man summoned his companions to him before he made any attempt to head down the stairs.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 09, 2015, 07:55 PM
"Be wary, this is a place of the Eldar.  It'd be wise to let Edrahil go first, for we know not any protections this place might have from outsiders," warned Durgil.  Even though this be fair place, he is still reminded of the pit into which he helped rescue a couple of dwarves and gained the sword at his side.  He gripped its hilt for reassurance.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 10, 2015, 08:52 AM
"I shall lead the way for I have nothing to fear from my kin, not now, not then." He moves towards the stairs to stand beside Celdrahil before turning back. "What say you Dirnhael? Do we descend? And Nain, will you enter into the halls of the elves?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 10, 2015, 11:29 AM
:ooc: Not sure if Stefan and Shawn are out on vacation, busy with real life, or moving on from the boards. If so, that is a bummer as they have been here a long time.

Anyway, to go down the hole a Willpower test must be made:

Edrahil - no roll necessary
Dúnedain - TN 10
Non-Dúnedain - TN 12

Celdrahil
TN 10 Willpower +1, Valour +4
:00: 2d6+5 : 4, 4 + 5, total 13


Dirnhael
TN 10 Willpower +2, Vorandúr +3
:00: 2d6+5 : 2, 3 + 5, total 10


Durgil
TN 10 Willpower +3
:00: 2d6+3 : 1, 2 + 3, total 6


Fengel
TN 12 Willpower +2
:00: 2d6+2 : 6, 3 + 2, total 11


Nain
TN 12 Willpower +1, Hardness o'mind +2
:00: 2d6+3 : 6, 4 + 3, total 13
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 10, 2015, 11:34 AM
The men found the makings for a brand and Nain set about lighting the end.

Once done, Edrahil started down the stairs but turned when he saw both Fengel and Durgil hesitate. The men did not want to go down into the darkness. It was not fear they felt, but more so a power that hearkened back to the age of Elves. A glamour had been placed here and it only allowed those strong of will to pass.

The Éothraim drew his sword, Cerduil, and took a step back. "You all go...I will watch for any dangers from the fens."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 10, 2015, 12:00 PM
Celdrahil nodded, "very well. Let us go then Edrahil."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: sdrotar on Sep 10, 2015, 01:21 PM
 :ooc: Still here... just working insane hours now that football season's here. Sorry.  :-[

"I shall lead the way for I have nothing to fear from my kin, not now, not then." Edrahil moved towards the stairs to stand beside Celdrahil before turning back. "What say you Dirnhael? Do we descend?"

"Indeed," Dirnhael replied with a smile, "even if your confidence is not entirely shared."
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 11, 2015, 07:50 AM
They descended down the long stairs under a flickering torchlight, the light of day high above them. It was a steep climb down, but Edrahil had no trouble even in the darkness. The four companions wondered at the purpose of such a stair, as it wend deep and did not stop on multi-underground levels. Elves had lived in vast underground realms of legend that rivaled those of the Dwarves - such as Nargothrond and Menegroth from the First Age - so seeing such a place as this did not surprise any of the company. What its purpose was the question.

At last Edrahil stepped off the last step and felt his feet splash into a brisk pool of water. The chamber had flooded - the waters of the Nin-in-Eilph seeping in through its walls or coming up through it floor. Celdrahil cast the torch in multiple directions to see a stone-laid room with algae growing over all.

:ooc: Observe (spot) TN 14

Celdrahil
TN 14 observe (spot) +7 +2
:00: 2d6+9 : 1, 5 + 9, total 15


Dirnhael
TN 14 observe (spot) +5 +2
:00: 2d6+7 : 4, 2 + 7, total 13


Edrahil
TN 14 observe (spot) +4 +2
:00: 2d6+6 : 5, 3 + 6, total 14


Nain
TN 14 observe (spot) +6 +2
:00: 2d6+8 : 4, 3 + 8, total 15
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 11, 2015, 07:52 AM
With the light of the torch chasing shadows from place to place, as it moved, the companions could see a reflection of light against something on the far wall. As if sparked to life, a faint whisper filled the chamber singing from another time and place...

By embers glow,
Heat unsurpassed,
Ringing anvil,
Marveled task

Wreathed in fire,
Mithril inlay,
Powers present
Thine Lord Aulë

Blessed thine works of steel,
Blessed thine works in gold,
By white-smith's hands
Treasures old

Bind thee, shadow
Bind thee, fear
Of Nargothrond to Eregion
Lo, Taranthir

Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 14, 2015, 11:29 AM
"With Ulmo's blessing I do not fear the water."

The knigth took a step forward into the water to further illuminate the room.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: tomcat on Sep 21, 2015, 12:38 PM
Celdrahil moved out into the open area of the subterranean room - his boots stirring up the calf-high water. It was icy cold but there was no evil presence emanating from the shadows. The whispered poem had caused goose-flesh to stand up on the arms of the men, but no threat revealed itself.

The Dúnadan stumbled over some unseen object under the water and the torch tumbled from his hand to extinguish with a loud hiss. Darkness enveloped them all, but then, as their eyes adjusted, the faint green glow came from the wall where before the light had flashed.
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Telcontar on Sep 21, 2015, 06:23 PM
The knight froze where he was an waited.
"edrahil, what do you make of this?"
Title: Re: Relics of the Past
Post by: Rothesay on Sep 27, 2015, 09:02 AM
Edrahil peered intently at the greenish glow. Possibly some light-sensitive lichen, or perhaps an afterglow of the before times. He searched his memory ...

 :ooc:  :00:
Lore - spellcraft:
Rolled 2d6+9 : 4, 3 + 9, total 16