Fengel had no sooner brought his new weapon to bear when the small shape of Nain appeared with his axe in his hand. The weapon clubbed the Dunman in the head and it was more than he could take; he rolled to his side with a groan and then all was quiet.
Seriand appraised the guard that he had just helped in subduing and in the faint light of the stars, light the keen eyes of the Elves were accustomed too, he could see that the man was no warrior. A farmer maybe, given duty with a spear... but no true warrior.
"Why did we not see this before?" he thought.
Because, he knew, earlier in the baking sun these were armed men forcing them to stay in a cage.
The Lorien Elf's thoughts were brought back to the situation at hand by the voice of Edrahil, whispering his intentions to move Durgil away from the settlement. The rest of the company would need to retrieve their gear and horses.
OOC: Actions -or- dialogue?
The rogue could hardly hide the grin on his face, examining the pommel of his sword as he weighed the blade in his hand making mock motions of stricking another foe. Then turning to the others he quickly addressed them. Speaking as softly as he could amongst the former hostages Galudir said, "Well then, we should depart along with your friends as quietly as we can."
Nain looks around the small group huddled near the last guard.
"Running would be a waste of time unless you can dicourage pursuit. They've got horses and they're likely to be well rested. I doubt any of us can say the same. We'll need to get your weapons at the least."
"I shall get the weapons, with the help of that one..." Seriand said, pointing to the stealthy human that had helped free them with Nain. "These guards are less than they appear though, they went down quite easily. We should leave but watch them from afar, aiding them against the unseen enemy could garner us an alley in this land where we have none."
Seriand then began to stalk off, silent as the night itself, sneaking into the hamlet where their weapons were located...
Stealth: Roll(2d6)+10: 4,4,+10 Total:18
Stealth Test:
2d6= 5,2
Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+7), Furtive +1, Observe (Spot) Affinity +1
7+3+7+1+1= 19
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Galudir sheathed his sword and walked after the elf, keeping near the shadows cast by the few torches around the settlement.
Fengel was glad to have a familiar weapon in his hands, and was sort of glad he didn't need to take the guards life. Thanks to the hammer like blow of their dwarven companion. This new character that suddenly appeared with Nain looked a little untrustworthy though. And upon hearing Seriands idea, Fengel looked to Dirnhael with concern. Then being the only one with a weapon he trotted off after the two as stealthly as he could.
Stealth Test:
Stealth +2; Nim+1; Sneak specialty+2
Roll(2d6)+5: 5,2,+5 Total:12
The trio moved quietly through the shadows between the small thatched-wood and mud huts. They decided to move towards the two largest structures as these surely would be the best choice to search for the captured gear. Fengel hoped that they were correct.
Once there, Galudir slightly pulled back the heavy fur that lay over the entrance so that he could peer inside. The sound of snoring was heard and soft glowing embers gave light to see by. There were four slumbering shapes and many other items strewn about but hidden by the shadows as to what they were - also, the rogue was not sure what he was looking for. He gestured for his two companions to look and Seriand and Fengel made their way over.
Both the Sindar and the Eothraim were also baffled and each knew that closer inspection would be necessary.
While all three stood there wondering if entering the hut was a good idea, Fengel looked to his right and saw the Company's horses all tied off to a makeshift hitching post. There were no other animals around them.
Seeing and smelling his master at close range, Heostor gave out a whicker as if to call Fengel over. The sound cut the darkness as a knife through butter.
OOC: Acitons - Dialogue?
With a look of dread on his face Seriand ducked out of the doorway so as to not be seen in the moonlight. He tapped Fengel roughly on the shoulder and pointed to the horses, the human would be better than anyone as freeing and quieting their faithful animals, but it would all be for naught if the horses continued their noise making.
Listening intently Seriand prepared to make another attempt at entering the hut, listening intently to hear uninterrupted snoring.
Observe (Listen): Roll(2d6)+10: 6,4,+10 Total:20
Stealth: Roll(2d6)+10: 6,2,+10 Total:18
OOC: Sorry I've been out of touch. I went out of town for the weekend, but the hotel I was at was repairing it's Internet service, so I've been out of the loop since Thursday...
***
Dirnhael would accompany the men in search of the party's weaponry...
Stealth Test:
2d6= 1,2
Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+7), Furtive +1, Observe (Spot) Affinity +1
3+3+7+1+1= 15
Search Test:
2d6= 6,5
Perception (+1), Skill Ranks (+1), Observe Affinity (+1), Conceal Affinity (+1) (If purposefully hidden)
11+1+1+1+1= 15
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seeing that Fengel would attend to the horses, Galudir followed Seriand inside the hut looking for the weapons the company was missing. Though he had not seen them in detail before, they might be easy to spot amongst the chipped and rusted tools of the hill-folk.
Fengel was glad to see their horses, and though he didn't like the idea of leaving Seriand and this mysterious rescuer, he knew that he had to get the horses quiet. He motioned to Dirnhael to help and then moved quickly over to Heostor. He leaned closer to Dirnhael and whispered, "Can you take the horses to the others while I assist Seriand? I do not like this other person, and besides if something goes wrong this spear might save a life." He waits for Dirnhael to responed.
Quote from: Palandil on Sep 05, 2006, 05:40 AM
Fengel was glad to see their horses, and though he didn't like the idea of leaving Seriand and this mysterious rescuer, he knew that he had to get the horses quiet. He motioned to Dirnhael to help and then moved quickly over to Heostor. He leaned closer to Dirnhael and whispered, "Can you take the horses to the others while I assist Seriand? I do not like this other person, and besides if something goes wrong this spear might save a life." He waits for Dirnhael to responed.
Dirnhael's arm still tingled from the guard's spear as Fengel spoke. Dirnhael wanted to help in the search for his weapons; he wished to feel his blade Vorandur in his hands once more; but Fengel could handle this as well as he.
He nodded, and started to lead the horses away as quietly as possible, toward Durgil and the others.
With Dirnhael's nod, Fengel stroked Heostor's head and gave the reins to Dirnhael. Then he went quietly back to the hut that Seriand, had entered.
While the three stealthed through the darkness Nain carried each of the former guards into the stockade and made sure that each was bound.
The day's sun had heated up the lake and the surrounding land, and as if to assist in the Company's escape a fog began to rise from the cool night's air. As they moved through the darkness, the settlement was blanketed with a thicker hush. The stars above caused the white wisps to glow with a pale light - to Dirnhael it seemed almost unnatural.
The Dunadan escorted the horses away from the Dunmen camp using the treeline to break up their shapes and the pine needle covered ground to mask the clop of the hooves. He pushed through the low hanging branches and led the beasts towards the ridgeline hoping that his comrades would have great luck in their search. Even if the settlement was roused, with their weapons in hand they could make a stronger point that they would no longer be held captive and treated like animals.
Dirnhael suddenly saw in his peripheral vision three or four forms standing in the soft glowing fog. They were tall and elegant and it seemed that they urgently gestured, or pleaded him to turn around. The warrior quickly turned to where the figures stood but there was only the fog and its shifting form. It felt more chill than it had before... even the horses seemed skittish. Dirnhael shook his head as if to clear the weariness, but his skin still crawled with... fear?
Nain secured the last Dunman and looked about at the fog that had rolled in off the lake. That had happened quickly and his vision was now greatly obscured although it seemed brighter around him. He looked towards the water and the dark night and there was a distant flash of light to the west. It was as if a beacon fire was lit far off and then suddenly snuffed out.
It was there again! The Dwarf struggled to discern the distance to the light, but most he could tell was that it had to be across the lake on the far shoulder of the mountains that marched west. Then darkness once more.
Nain stood watching for a few more minutes but the light did not shine again.
Not far from the Dwarf, walking along the lake's muddy beach, Edrahil and Durgil also saw the beacon flare twice.
Three figures moved silently into the hut and began to move about in search for the Company's gear. The sleeping figures did not stir as Galudir surveyed where the likely places would be to store the treasures. The light in the chamber was faint but their eyes were well-accustomed to it. Seriand moved on the far side of rogue while Fengel stood at the ready. The snoring figures were the two elders of the Dunmen clan and would offer little threat should they awake, but Fengel took no chances.
It was soon evident that the items were no where to be seen in the hut and both Elf and Man began to make their way back to the entrance where Fengel stood poised with the spear. They would go to the next large hut that sat just next to this one and see what that would reveal. Unfortunately, it would be Hurd's... the large Dunman warrior that protected these people.
Both froze as Fengel raised a sudden urgent fist in the air to signal them to stop. A shape had raised its head in the ember's glow over where the two old men slept. Fengel felt the hair raise on his neck as a low rumbling growl began to come from the direction.
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
Dirnhael whirled about, and had anyone been abround, he might have been ashamed at the fear in his eyes.
Something was here, and it wanted him - for good or ill, he did not know.
He led the horses towards the others, quickening his pace as he went.
OOC: Hey Shawn, I just added a gif image of the encampment. Is Dirnhael turning back around to head back into the settlement with the horses? Let me know...
Thanks!
"What devilry was that?" Durgil queried his elven friend in a hushed voice.
Seriand froze, the sound of the growl could only be that of a pet of some sort, how vicious of a pet was the real question.
OOC: What skill is used to calm an animal down?
OOC: With no apparent beast or animal handling skills listed except Ride, I would require an opposed Bearing test. In the Hall of Fire is a new option for the Craft skill called Animal Handling... but I know of no other option off the top of my head.
For an opposed Bearing test, the following modifiers will be applied to the rolls:
- If Seriand conducts the test, he will gain the +4 from his Racial ability for Beast skill.
- The dog will have a +4 for defending master and a +2 due to strangers in shadows causing them to be agitated.
So, here are the results from the dogs roll...
Bearing +1, +4 defense of master, +2 due to strange shadows
Roll(2d6)+7: 3,1,+7Total:11
Edrahil moved as quietly as possible along the shore of the lake, supporting Durgil as best he could. The elf paused for a moment when he and Durgil saw the lights across the water. He whispered to his companion, "I saw them as well. Something odd is happening in this place, but I do not know what it is. This fog seems unnatural as well, but for now it will help to hide us."
Continuing on, Edrahil realized that he had not made any plan to meet with the others once they had left the village. They would need their horses if they had any hope of escape.
Bearing +3, Beast Skill +4, Winded -1 -- [EDIT] Hey Shawn, I wanted to add your physical penalty to your roll... still a success though! - Doug
Bearing: Roll(2d6)+3: 3,3,+3 +4 -1 Racial Total: 12
Seriand reached out his hand and whispered in the tongue of his kin. "Be calm my friend we mean your masters no harm." Seriand would say this as he stepped ever-slowly backwards out of the tent, making sure he was between the dog and his comrades.
The growling from the large dog stopped almost immediately from Seriand's soothing words and the three comrades could see (if not sense) the rapid wagging of its tail. It gave a whiny sigh and inched forward, excited to go up and meet the Sindar.
"Shhhhh..." whispered Seriand and the dog calmed down.
The Company members hastily exited the hut while the opportunity was theirs. Draping the fur back over the entrance, Fengel turned to catch up with the other two as they headed to the second structure that they assumed would hold their items - the hut of the warrior Hurd.
Quote from: tomcat on Sep 06, 2006, 06:17 AM
OOC: Hey Shawn, I just added a gif image of the encampment. Is Dirnhael turning back around to head back into the settlement with the horses? Let me know...
Thanks!
OOC: No, he'd circle around wide of the encampment.
Stealth Test:
2d6= 6,5
Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+7), Furtive +1, Observe (Spot) Affinity +1
11+3+7+1+1= 23
Search Test:
2d6= 4,1
Perception (+1), Skill Ranks (+1), Observe Affinity (+1), Conceal Affinity (+1) (If purposefully hidden)
5+1+1+1+1= 9
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Galudir was almost ready to flee into the night when he heard the dog's growl. If nothing else, his life as a rogue had taught him to fear watchdogs. But the elf reacted first and calmed the creature, much to Galudir's appreciaition. Once out of the hut, Galudir moved along with the others to the next largest hut. Steadying himself before entering, Galudir slipped into the hut with almost no sound as he strained his eyes in the dark looking for the company's arms and armor.
"Be prepared to use that." Seriand whispered to Fengal as he followed the rogue into the darkness of the hut.
Stealth: Roll(2d6)+10: 6,4,+10 +1 (Spot) affninity Total:21
Search: Roll(2d6)+4: 3,3,+4 Total:10
Durgil attempts to pierce to gloomy haze to get a better look at whatever it is they saw, but to no avail. He feels all too awkward, naked rather, without the heft of a blade or bow in his hand or at his side. This place now felt even more cold and alien to him and he wish to be away from here as soon as possible, trying to pick up the pace with Edrahil to get away from the village.
Fengel noded to Seriand and followed behind the two entering the tent. He entered the hut and stood on the threshold, watching carfully the large man that slept there. He was prepared to show the Dunman the same respect that he gave them.
Observe (Spot)
skill +2; spot +2; Per +1
Roll(2d6)+5: 3,4,+5 Total:12 (+2 Night-eyed if needed)
Once the former guards were stowed in the staockade Nain watched over them. His companions were taking care of the weapon and transport situation and with his stealthing abilities what they were he thought it best to let them. He did, however, keep an eye out around the village for anything out of the ordinary.
Galudir pushed into the hut and was at first stunned by how spartan it appeared lit by the faint glow of embers. Again two forms lay sleeping on furs that were piled on the floor, but also a smaller shape lay curled in between - a child. The rogue only gave the sleeping folk a cursory glance leaving the responsibility to Fengel to keep an eye on them. So again the Man and Sindar began to move throughout the domicile.
Vorandur had been crafted by the Elves, and in it they had laid their enchantments; but also they had worked it under the stars of Rivendell and the soft light of that blessed realm was captured in the mithril inlay. The glow was easy to discern in the darkness. Beside the longsword lay Cerduil and Silivren along with the masterfully-crafted Rivendell bow. The Company's other items that did not hold such prestige were piled nearby but with much less reverance.
The treasures made Galudir suck in his breath creating a slight hiss and he quickly looked to the prone figures to see if they stirred, but no movement was made. Fengel had made his way over to the Dunman warrior and held his spear in close proximity to his throat; the Eothraim had a look of fire in his eyes.
Seriand noticing Galudir's find, gave a nod to the rogue and came over to assist him in collecting the items.
Hurd had always been a warrior. He hunted. He killed - both animals and Men. The years of honing his skill to razor sharpness also increased his alertness to sounds and movement. As stealthy as the Company members moved, the Dunman knew something stirred in his immediate surrounds. His eyes popped open to see the deadly end of the spear not six inches from his throat; in an act of courage or maybe futility, the warrior quickly reached out to grab the spear's haft to try and rest it from his attacker's hands.
Dirnhael saw large black shapes appear in the fog before him as the land suddenly began to rise and bare stone jutted out of the soft soil and pine needles upon which he walked. He passed between the exposed moss-covered sandstone and began his climb up the hill with the Company's mounts. He continued up until he knew he stood above the settlement in the valley below and stopped. He tied the horses off to a low-hanging branch and turned back towards the town. He strained his eyes to try and pierce the fog but he could see little.
The Dunadan heard a whisper and it seemed the chill, damp foggy air clung closer. To his right the misty night glowed with a soft light, as if inviting him in the direction of the ancient Elven gazebo.
Edrahil and Durgil continued on, though they were concerned as to what the signal lights had been. They too began to climb the ridge that led out of the valley. They weaved in between thick fir trees and finally came to the top - some meters away to their left, they heard the sound of a horse whicker.
Nian stood and watched for any threats that may have come from the sleeping village, but in truth the Dwarf could not see much further past his own long nose. It was quiet, and he began to wonder where his comrades had made off to.
OOC: Hurd attempts to grab the spear will require a series of tests... first an Opposed Swiftness with Fengel test to grab the weapon in the dark; second will be an Opposed Strength test with Fengel to keep hold of the weapon's end:
Hurd's Swiftness Test
Swiftness +4, Wary +3
Roll(2d6)+7: 3,6,+7 Total:16
Hurd's Strength test if unopposed on the grab:
Strength +2
Roll(2d6)+2: 5,2,+2Total:9 [+3 Courage] = 12
Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
Seriand heard the exchange begin and his mind raced. Which target does he attack, and could this one be done as quietly as the others? Not likely, these were true warriors not rabble that would go down and out with a few solid punches, no this situation required much more drastic action. But what...
What indeed? Seriand's eyes darted to Hurd and on his way he caught glimpse of the child, a father's duty was his duty first and foremost. Seriand took quick steps and reached down to grab the child. Picking the baby up Seriand made sure to sooth the child and hopefully prevent any noise from screaming out. "Let us leave and you will have your son back." Seriand said, his tone deadly serious but his eyes trying to get the truth out.
OOC: Nice post Shawn! ;)
OOC: Int - (6+5)+1=12
Durgil almost thought he recognized the sound of his horse and he called out in a loud whisper and carefully moving towards the sound he'd heard, "Rochy, is that you?"
OOC: Oh crap! This dude is fast!
Swiftness Test:
Swiftness+3; Winded -1;
Roll(2d6)+2: 4,5,+2 Total:11
Opposed Strength test: TN 12
Str +1
Roll(2d6)+1: 1,2,+1 Total:4
Fengel watched the Dunman closely, hoping that he would not wake, but still wanting to exact some justice for the ill treatment he gave. Something out of the corner of Fengel's eye caught his attention. He turned his gaze for a brief moment and recognized Dirnhael's sword, the mithril glimmering in the pale light of the hut. But that was all it took. Before he knew it the Dunman had his hands on the end of the spear, and though he tried he could not hold on to it. Cursing himself for having lost his weapon, Fengel went quickly for Cerduil, hoping that he could parry fast enough any attack that would surely come.
Hurd awkwardly tried to stand. He was wrapped in his blankets and fumbling with the spear to make it an offensible tool when Seriand scooped up the small child and drew it in close. The Elf's spoken warning caused the Dunman warrior to halt. Even though Hurd did not understand a word spoken, the look in Seriand's eyes said it all.
The other shape that had been laying there began to stir and upon opening her eyes, she saw the shadowy shapes around and her child missing. A scream erupted from the woman and the trio from the Company each gritted their teeth knowing the town would definitely be awakened! What was worse, the child woke up from its mother's cry and it too began to add to the cacaphony.
Hurd stood ready with the spear now pointed at Seriand; behind the Elf, Fengel held Cerduil while Galudir's arms were full of the remaining items. A standoff between the warriors was now taking place all the while the small child screamed in the Sindar's arms.
Durgil heard the familiar sound of Rochithuin and followed it until he came to the large tree under which the horses and Dirnhael stood. Edrahil immediately went to his saddles to confirm his items were still within the bags. The Elf was relieved to see that his healing herbs and poultices remained and that he would be able to now administer properly to his comrades.
The two Dunedain stood together looking off towards the eastern mist that seemed to glow a little brighter. As they stood there looking, a faint scream echoed in the valley below.
Nain heard the scream as well from where he stood in the stockade and he knew it was time to become more involved.
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
As much as it panged him to be doing this with a small child this was his only choice, their only choice to get out of this situation without wound.
He placed his hand on his chest and then waved to the others of the company in the tent. He then pointed to the outside. "We are leaving and you cannot stop us." A quick glance back to the other two and he spoke again.
"Arm yourselves and let us leave. This child will be an unfortunate prisoner until we are able to reach our horses. Be sure to not threaten, a battle with the child in my arms is not something any of us wish to see."
Knowing that the barbarians could not understand him Seriand began to back out of the tent after his companions secured their get-a-way.
Seeing this man's woman and child, Fengel's hatred of the Dunman faded. He only wanted to get he and his friends out of here. Fengel held his hand up, and as calmly as he could he said, "Easy. Easy. It is time for us to go." Remembering their first meeting, Fengel gestured with the same hand for the man to put down the spear, "Drop the weapon." he stated slowly. While keeping his eyes on the Dunman, Fengel says to Seriand, "If we can get him to drop that spear, we can use him to get out of here instead of the child."
Once Galudir saw the company's weapons he lost sense of his surroundings. Though he couldn't accurately value them, the fine weapons were surely worth a fortune. At that moment, Galudir knew that one gold coin per head was far too low a price to charge such wealthy hostages. A woman's scream brought Galudir back to the hut in the small Dunnish settlement. After a quick look he saw that a large Dunlander was holding a spear and the elf had taken a young boy captive. No doubt the entire village would soon be awake and there was little time to consider a course of action. Without a word, Galudir grabbed as much of the company's gear as he could carry and he ran out of the hut toward the dwarf at the stockade.
Hurd was a stout warrior and he did not fear engaging the Elf and Man before him, especially so as the the third ran from his domicile - but he did fear threats to his wife and son. It had not been a year since his eldest child had come down with the sickness... and then to have had her disappear in the night! Here he was again and here was one of the folks that would again take his child while darkness enveloped the world. The Dunman hesitantly lowered his guard and then dropped the spear all together. He would not see his family harmed again.
Cries in the night had been an occasional occurence these last two months and thus the nursemaid, who had been tending the ill, rolled off of her furs. She leaned over her small fire pit and collected a still glowing ember into a small wooden bowl and then strode off into the night. She headed to the house where her charges lay struggling with fever and, unfortunately, death. Before entering she washed her hands in a basin that she kept outside the door and pushed through the fur draped doorway.
The nurse went first to the table where she kept a small wax candle and lit it from her carried ember. The light of the candle filled the room and her eyes looked about to see who cried out inthe night. She saw naught but sleeping folk and then an empty bed that had had a patient in it no more than four hours ago.
"Another one!" she thought.
It was not the old man that stirred from the cry, but his dog and it was its protestations that caused him to awake. The town elders both rose, hearing the cries and immediately went out from their hut in search of the cause. Hurd's home was only next door so it did not take them long to arrive and even though the fog was thick the rogue was easy to see as he ran from the door... right towards them!
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
"Where is he going with our weapons!" Seriand protested as the rogue jolted out of the hut.
Calming his voice he looked back to Hurd and spoke. "We need to leave, you have no right to hold us. No harm will come to your child." A gentle pat on the head of the child was enough to show them that he didn't want to hurt the child, at least that is what Seriand hoped was being signed to them.
ACTION: Leave hut and stay next to Fengel (who is armed)
Fengel put a hand quickly on Seriands shoulder, "No Seriand. Let us take the warrior, not his child. By doing so maybe he will understand we mean no harm to them." Fengel looked about the tent for some rope. Finding what he saught he stepped closer to the warrior gesturing for him to turn around, "Turn." he snapped.
Hearing the scream, Dirnhael looked at the Edrahil and Durgil with concern.
"It appears that our escape has not gone unnoticed," he said with a frown.
They had no weapons, but at least they had mounts once more. Perhaps if they rode into town, they could get the rest of the Company out quickly...
Then, the apparitions that he had seen came to the fore of his thoughts.
He turned to Edrahil and spoke quickly.
"My friend, I saw spectres - of your kin - up the hill," he said, pointing in that direction. "Durgil is unwell, and rushing into the fray is not wise. Perhaps you could make your way up the hill - carefully - and see if our answers lie among those trees."
"I will meet you there with the others," he said as he gathered up the reins of the others' horses and prepared to ride into the village.
Quote from: sdrotar on Sep 11, 2006, 12:39 PM
"My friend, I saw spectres - of your kin - up the hill," he said, pointing in that direction. "Durgil is unwell, and rushing into the fray is not wise. Perhaps you could make your way up the hill - carefully - and see if our answers lie among those trees."
"I will meet you there with the others," he said as he gathered up the reins of the others' horses and prepared to ride into the village.
Edrahil was shocked by what Dirnhael reported seeing on the hill. "Spectres ... of my kin! But ... that cannot be ...". Then the thought struck him. This must be why the Dunmen were so suspicious of Seriand and himself. Some malevolent presence was tormenting these folk ... and posing as elves! "Durgil ... are you well enough to ride? We cannot assist in the village, but we must try to solve this mystery before it is too late." He mounted and rode off in the direction indicated by Dirnhael, opening his senses to any signs of power. Edrahil pressed on as quickly as he could, keenly aware that any bloodshed in the village could prove disastrous for himself anf his friends.
Galudir continues running outside the hut. Once in the open he heads towards the stockade where the dwarf is standing watch over the guards. He stops near the stockade and in a voice just loud enough for the dwarf to hear Galudir informs him of the recent events in the hut. "Someone's awake... woman scream... Elf has boy... run!." Without waiting for a responce, Galudir runs off in the direction he remembered the other members of the company moving to.
Edrahil and Durgil rode north and east towards the glow that emanated there, leaving behind the fog and the sound of Dirnhael riding back towards the village, their companions' horses in tow.
The duo weaved between branches and tree trunks and unwittingly found themselves on the old cobbled path that led up to the ancient Elven ruin. The hollow sound of wood knocking against bones added to the eeriness that Durgil felt, though the Elf did not seem to be bothered.
The clatter of their horses' hooves on the cobbled stones let them know that they were on a path that had been constructed. The ground rose sharply and began to turn to the left. The dampness of the cobbles created concern for the two companions, fearing that their horses could slip and thus they led them back down the grade and dismounted.
Now on foot, the two climbed the path and came into the gazebo that Nain and Galudir had visited some hours before. Durgil caught his breath as both Elf and Man saw a figure standing over the fount filling a jug - it appeared to be an Elven maiden. The wind blew a bit and the fog swirled and with it the spectre disappeared. Only the sound of the gurgling water could be heard in the ruin that seemed to be aglow from starlight far greater than the night skies accomodated.
Fengel secured Hurd's hands while Seriand handed over the small child to the mother that still lay amongst the furs - her sobs coming in short breaths. Her husband's hands tied behind his back, the two Company members started out of the house with their captive led at spear and sword point.
They started to move towards the distant ridgeline and freedom when a voice called out from the foggy darkness, "YOU ARE LEAVING US?!?"
Seriand and Fengel turned to see the two elders standing there - the look on their face was a mixture of anger and regret. The rumbling sound of horse hooves could be heard approaching from the direction that the two had been walking.
Nain looked at Galudir as he dashed off...
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
As the coward dashed into the darkness Nain turned and began walking in the direction that he'd come from. Chances were that was where the trouble was and being the only armed one in the group, he'd be needed. He carried his axe ready for trouble since that's about all that had come since the orcs had attacked those several days ago.
Fengel stopped suddenly upon hearing speech that he could understand. He turned towards the man that spoke, "Why would you expect us to stay!" Fengel could not hide his anger that they left he and his companions in such a state without reason. "It needn't had come to this, we had at one time, concern for your people! Now we must be on our way, you have hindered our journey long enough!" With that Fengel pushed their warrior captive on at a quicker pace. Turning once more he added, "We will let this man go as soon as we are on our way. If you try to hinder us again I will take his life!"
OOC: Just a little change to make it fit better.
OOC: Hey Paul... just so you know, the Dunman leader had spoken in broken common to the Company earlier that day when you all were in the stockade. He ranted abou the Elves causing bewitchments to the land and bringing sickness.
But I really like your post and am hesitant for you to make any changes. ;D
Glad to be rid of the child Seriand gripped the spear and made sure that Hurd would follow directions.
Seriand shook his head. The entire situation they were presently in could be traced back to a simple lack of communication by all parties.
Now here they were, taking a hostage in order to orchestrate their escape. "Calm my friend." The elven scout said to Fengel.
"We have been forced to stay here quite long enough. Had you simply asked for our aid we would have most likely helped you out, but your treatment has been disheartening and thus we WILL be taking our leave. Please do not make this any more difficult on all of us that it already has been."
Seriand continued to walk away from the camp, Hurd lead on by the tip of the spear.
Durgil felt a chill in his bones, yet a curiosity grabbed causing him to dismount and approach warily to the fountain with an eye out for trouble or anything out of the ordinary (other than the obvious).
Observe (Spot) - (5+4)+3+2-3=11
Observe (Hear) - (5+4)+3+2-3=11
The fog revealed nothing to the Dunadan noble save the old structure and the fountain within. Durgil could hear the gurgle of water as it bubbled up from the center of the large stone bowl only to pour out where large pieces were broken out. Yet, he also seemed to hear a song faintly on the wind - but it was nothing he could make out. He refrained from telling his comrade thinking the Elf may consider him delirious from his fever.
Edrahil and Durgil stepped into the gazebo and looked about but all that they saw was stone fragments of the structure itself. Still, it retained the beauty inlaid by the Elven craftsman centuries before.
Dirnhael rode into the settlement with the horses in tow, coming quickly to a halt once he saw Fengel and Seriand appear from the fog. Before his two companions, the large Dunman warrior was prodded on by the spear in the Elf's hands.
Behind the Company members, the elders and gathered townsfolk watched as their protector was led away. While they watched, a sleepy woman entered the group and started to rapidly speak to the elders in their strange tongue.
"WAIT!" yelled the old man so that his former captives could hear and understand.
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue
Quote from: tomcat on Sep 13, 2006, 10:43 AM
Dirnhael rode into the settlement with the horses in tow, coming quickly to a halt once he saw Fengel and Seriand appear from the fog. Before his two companions, the large Dunman warrior was prodded on by the spear in the Elf's hands.
Behind the Company members, the elders and gathered townsfolk watched as their protector was led away. While they watched, a sleepy woman entered the group and started to rapidly speak to the elders in their strange tongue.
"WAIT!" yelled the old man so that his former captives could hear and understand.
Dirnhael turned his horse towards the man, placing himself between the village and Fengel, Seriand and their captive. He was still unarmed, and this concerned him, but Fengel and Seriand had things in hand - he would make one last attempt to help these people, but not before showing his teeth.
*
Intimidation (Power) +7Roll(2d6)+7: 5,1,+7 Total:13
"We are leaving, but your men are unharmed. We have paid them greater respect than you have us.
What do you want?"
Dirnhael's voice lowered to a growl as he spoke the last. He felt for these people, but he would not allow their captivity to continue - he had done so for too long already.
With the arrival of their leader, it seemed that a parley would commence, though Fengel didn't much care what these Dunman had to say. Fengel clapped a hand on the captive's shoulder, then kick him behind one knee sending him to his knees. And there he held him with the point of his sword upon his back. They were not free yet, and Fengel hoped that they were not just buying time for an offensive move. So while his leader talked, Fengel kept a wary eye out for trouble.
Observe Spot:
skill +2; Per+1; Spot+2; -1winded
Roll(2d6)+4: 2,1,+4 Total:7
Arriving on site just in time to hear the Dunman shout in plain language for them to wait Nain was somewhat shocked. He looked to the humans that he'd been trying to rescue to see what they would do in response. Since Jethro wasn't ahndy anyway He figured that he had some time.
Looking at Dirnhael the oldman spoke...
"Answers..." said the old man in a whispered, yet exasperated voice. "My people are sick. They are dying. And there are those amongst you that must know something! The strange occurances?"
The other elder Dunman began to talk to his comrade in their indistinguishable language,though the words seemed to drip with contempt. Not realizing he still spoke in Westron, the leader addressing Dirnhael responded to his second's comments.
"Yes! This one too is of those that drove us from our land... but someone must know something!" Shaking his head for his error, the elder quickly corrected his speech and a small debate erupted, but then was quelled by the nursemaid.
Whatever her comments had been, the Dunman who spoke Dirnhael's tongue slumped his shoulders, "Forgive us... we have only known oppression and war. Hurd thought your folk may have answers and so we brought you here. Though I feel we owe you and your folk nothing..." his last words he almost spat out. "We need help."
The man hung his head in a defeated manner, all the while the crowd looked on waiting for some sign of what they should do. Hurd, now on the ground, stared at the Eothraim with a hate-filled glare.
OOC: Are there any runes telling what this site is or anything like that? A mark of the craftsman?
Edrahil stayed at the perimiter of the ruin as Durgil inspected the fountain. The elf took in the entire scene, imagining the magesty of the place long ago when it was still tended by his kin. He had assumed that some foul magic was at work here, tormenting the Dunmen under the guise of elven "ghosts". But, seeing that this place was here, Edrahil knew that something else was afoot.
They were on the northern edge of Hollin, long ago a home of the elves. Edrahil knew that an "impression" was often left on the lands once occupied by his kin, but had never though that it could be so profound as to produce such ghostly images.
"Do not be afraid, Durgil. There are no apparitions here. What we see are memories of the past. Perhaps they will tell us something if we look carefully." He slowly began walking around the perimiter of the ruins, trying to sense what it was that made this place so special, and trying to remember anything he may have learned about Hollin and it's former inhabitants.
[ooc]
Observe: Sense Power
Roll(2d6)+5: 1,3,+5 Total:9 [Edit]+2 The Art = 11
Lore: History - Elves
Roll(2d6)+11: 5,2,+11 Total:18
Seriand stood there a moment and eyed the two that were speaking back and forth. The silence that hung in the air was quite uncomfortable, and that was his intention, that and giving himself time to think.
"My kin are not actually here. Had you asked for our assistance in the first place we would have been quite responsive to your requests." Seriand put the butt of the spear on the ground and let it fall. Walking closer to the Dunmen.
"The ghosts of my kin that you claim are responsible for this are not as you think. What you are seeing are..." He trailed off trying to search for a word that they may understand. "...inprints that the land remembers. If you understand."
Seriand looked around and then back to the chief. "After our treatment by your hand why should we help you? What is in it for us? Can you speed along our journey that you have waylaid?"
Dirnhael waited for a response to Seriand's queries.
Although, if these were not truly spirits... then these people would have to move to a new land, although even this was a better option than what the Dunmen faced today.
He chose not to reveal Edrahil and Durgil's location - and decided to stall if necessary to buy them some more time. But Dirnhael knew that to do so, he'd need his weapons.
"Where was the skulking man that came with Nain?" he thought. Neither Fengel nor Seriand had returned with their weapons, even though that was their goal...
To Seriand, the old man speaks...
"And what of the treatment of my folk by the hands of the Dunedain, or the Elves!" the elder spit through his teeth. "The coming of the men of the west drove us from our native lands, or took them like a thief steals your bread. The Elves offered nothing... forbidden to dwell among the eaves of the forest to the north!"
Seriand knew he spoke of Lorien; the migration of the wild men of the White Mountains due to the expansion of Gondor had caused these people to lose lands that had once been inherently theirs. Now they lived in the foothills of the mountains and such, knowing an even harder life.
"What do we offer you?" the elder asked angrily. "Nothing..."
A silent pause hung there as he resigned and turned away saying, "Take your road and begone! Take your weapons and mounts and leave here, but leave Hurd. We will not pursue you."
The old man turned his back on the Company and pushed into the throng of villagers that erupted into a chorus of voices, which were easily discerned to be questions. The Dunman leader just shook his hands above his head and walked away saying a few words in his native tongue. Whatever he had said, Hurd stood and picked up the fallen spear and held it in a non-threatening posture. He stared at Fengel, almost challenging him with his gaze, and then walked from the company to follow his leader. Only one of the Dunfolk remained standing there looking at the Company, it was the nursemaid, and she did not know how to speak to these strangers.
Dirnhael and his friends knew that whatever chance for dialogue there had been, was lost; maybe irretrievably. Was this the mission that they had set forth on? Or had the Dunadan warrior hoped to make new ties, and perchance build new relations? Dirnhael remembered that Durgil had proudly spoken of such things... as part of his noble duty to the throne of Arthedain.
The Dunlendings had taken the Company by force, and coraled them like animals. "But they are a simple folk, and the strange happenings in this land would make anyone uneasy," thought Dirnhael.
The woman finally turned from the Company as well, to run back to join her kin around the now roaring fire.
As strangely as the whole situation began, the Company was now abandoned by these folk and left there, in the early morning fog, to take up their road once again as they pleased.
OOC: Actions - and/or - Dialogue?
Brian - I will need a Search test from you to decipher any runes in the ancient, wind-eroded stone columns or on the worn marble floor. Minimum test success is on a result of 10, but you may glean more information on a higher result.
[EDIT] Hey Brian, I didn't see your lore skill there. Edrahil can easily tell from his knowledge of his folk that the gazebo is of Elven origin. He also knows that the Elves always built homes and other structures in compliment to the lands. This structure is very organic. Edrahil also know that many of the well-crafted structures of the Elves were built with purposes to enhance the natural resource that is there (i.e. view, listening, etc.).
Dirnhael shook his head. "All this for nothing," he thought.
At least they were unharmed, and Durgil would be well soon enough.
"Let us retrieve our weaponry and join the rest of our friends," he said.
He looked forward to holding Vorandur once more - the warrior did not cherish battle, but he felt infinitely more comfortable when he was prepared for it.
He planned to lead them up the path he had seen and help investigate with Edrahil and Durgil - but he knew the Company did not have long, for the Dunmens' patience was limited.
If they could find an answer swiftly, perhaps all that had transpired would not be for naught, and Dirnhael wasn't quite ready to give up yet.
OOC: Looks like Seriand screwed the pooch on that one....
Seriand stood there, angry with himself to causing any chance at a kinship they may have had. Turning from the settlement the elf hurried off to look for the one whom had taken their weapons...
Nain thought to himself that he could never understand Humans.
"A dwarf would never treat another dwarf as these people have been treated. I think I'm beginning to understand why my brother was so against this trip. I can hear him now, 'We should go back to the mountians and leave these humans Brother, they treat their own worse than the shadow and I'll have none of it'. "
Fengel watched Hurd go with contempt in his eyes as well. As soon as they were left alone, Fengel grabbed Heostor's reins and lept upon his back. "The fool stranger that arrived with Nain ran off with all of the weapons save mine. Where is Durgil and Edrahil?", he questioned Dirnhael.
Conceal (Hide Weapon):
2d6= 3,3
Wits (+1), Skill Ranks (+2), Speciality (+2), Furtive (+1), Courage (+3)
6+1+2+2+1+3= 15
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Galudir ran from the village until he came to his horse still where he tied him to a sickly, bent, tree. During his escape he saw neither the two that left ahead of him nor the others comming behind him. No wonder they were caught, they don't have the good sense to run when you are found breaking into someone's home. Galudir placed the weapons in his horse's saddlebag and prepared to begin searching around the village. But as he climbed his horse a thought occured to him. He was alone and these companions he rescued outnumbered him. Once he gave them there weapons they would be armed as well. Not knowing who they are, where they are going, or from where they came, there is a great danger that he would not be paid his due wages.
Galudir dismounted and quickly took the long sword from his bags and hid it a few yards away from the bent tree. With a smile on his face he rode back toward the town to find his latest employer.
He inspected the fountain; his hands gently touching the fountain, as if reverently in fashion. He couldn't bear it any further, his captivity and lack of proper sustenance overwhelmed his good judgement and he plunged his hands into the water to drink to his fill. The water was refreshing, satisfying, and clean -- despite his dirty hands. He felt better too, as if some of the dirt from his soul was washed away as well. Then it struck him, "Edrahil, could the Dunlendings be mistakenly the intent of the echos of your kin? Could they be leading those lost ones here for some reason? Might this be a place of wholesomeness and healing?"
OOC: Somewhere a light bulb goes on! ;D
I adjusted your character sheet Matt.
Quote from: GandalfOfBorg on Sep 15, 2006, 07:09 PM
Then it struck him, "Edrahil, could the Dunlendings be mistakenly the intent of the echos of your kin? Could they be leading those lost ones here for some reason? Might this be a place of wholesomeness and healing?"
Durgil's drink from the fountain brought Edrahil out of his thoughts and back to the present. While not worried about any consequences, the elf was still curious to see if something interesting might happen. "I think it is definitely true that the Dunlendings have misunderstood what they have seen, but I'm not sure that there could be any 'intent' from the echoes as you call them, as they are only memories of what once was. I find it difficult to see how they can be the cause of the disappearances from the village, which seems to be an issue more in the ... present."
"This is a fascinating place, though. Wholesome, as you say. How does the water taste? Are there any runes or markings anywhere?" Edrahil joined Durgil in a closer inspection of the fountain.
[ooc] anything from the sense power or history rolls made earlier?
While standing beside Durgil, Edrahil remembered the mysterious lights across the water. From the height of the elven gazebo, he tried to see if there was a good view across the lake.
Observe: Spot
Roll(2d6)+3: 4,5,+3 Total:12 [EDIT] +2 The Art = 14
Hey Brian, the two edits that I have made to your rolls on this thread are due to the related magic of the tests and the Elven Art
Quote from: TomcatBrian - I will need a Search test from you to decipher any runes in the ancient, wind-eroded stone columns or on the worn marble floor. Minimum test success is on a result of 10, but you may glean more information on a higher result.
[EDIT] Hey Brian, I didn't see your lore skill there. Edrahil can easily tell from his knowledge of his folk that the gazebo is of Elven origin. He also knows that the Elves always built homes and other structures in compliment to the lands. This structure is very organic. Edrahil also know that many of the well-crafted structures of the Elves were built with purposes to enhance the natural resource that is there (i.e. view, listening, etc.).
OOC: Hey Brian, this was from my previous post on page 4 of this thread.
Edrahil's far-seeing eyes looked off into the distance towards where he had seen the flare of light earlier. Though it was dark, he could make out a snow-covered summit that sat on the far side of the lake and valley, making up its western wall. It was in the Elf's mind where things took on a more clear image and Edrahil knew it was the ruin around him that enhanced his
sight. The Elven craftsman of old had inlaid enchantments into the structure creating a place of seeing - a place where even the weakest of eyesight would be able to see to the walls of Khazad-dum. Edrahil wondered if that were truly the case.
The vision in his mind was of another ruined structure, much moreso than the one in which he stood. In fact, the envisioned ruin looked as if it had been thrown down. Its purpose was not so easy to discern, but central to all else was a blackened, wrought-iron brazier bent out of shape but still afixed to its stone base.
"A signal tower of old?" thought the Elf.
OOC: I am going to go with the assumtion that you guys could piece together my description of what Edrahil was seeing. ;) Also, if Durgil wants to
see it too, he needs to roll at least a 12 in Observe (Spot).
[ooc] Brian hopes for a decent roll ... [click] ... hmmm ... ok I guess ...
Search the markings around the fountain ...
Roll(2d6)+3: 6,1,+3 Total:10 (would The Art apply here as well? If so 12 is the result)
[ic]
"I see another structure across the lake, Durgil. I think this is the place where we saw the mysterious lights across the water earlier. The ruin there appears to be a companion of this one, perhaps designed for communication across the distance. I wonder if the answer to this mystery lies across the lake." The elf described the state of the other structure to Durgil, as well as the iron brazier within.
OOC: Hey Brian,
With Edrahil's search, you do find runic characters that are still evident in the old stone - particularly runes in the Noldorin language of Quenya. You can tell that the once unbroken marble floor ringed the fountain in magic runes, but time and wanton destruction has pretty much erased these.
The most that Edrahil can discern from his search is what you already know (or what Durgil knows) - that the airy gazebo was (and still is) a high place of seeing for the Noldor that allowed them to look far to the east and west. The fountain is nothing more than a natural spring that has bubbled up from below over these countless years, and the Elves made a beautiful fountain to capture the icy clear water. Elven craftsmanship and enchantments helped here as well and made the water invigorating and healing - as stated from a previous post:
The water restores all weariness and it will heal all health points in your current wound level save 1. This is a one time benefit from the Elven fountain for any character who takes a full draught of the water. It will lose its benefits after 1 day of being stored.
"I agree it bears investigation, but let us rejoin the others first. I don't feel quite brave enough to venture any further without a sword or bow in my hand," replies Durgil.
OOC: Also I wanted to tell you Matt, the effect of the water also relieves the fever Durgil has had for the last 24 hours. Understand that the water does not heal 100%, but with rest will allow a full recovery from the bug that has persisted.
OOC: I say we start bottling this stuff and sellling it!
OOC: From Durgil's last comment on this thread, I am going bring you guys into The Way is Open... thread.