Date: Mon Aug 31, 1998 17:31:00 From: just john To: AllDear Diary,
Well, the big day is finally here! Sammi finally got to bed an hour ago, and since I had to get up early anyway, I figured what the hey. Gives me time to write, before things get really crazy.
I figure that'll be about sunrise, maybe three hours away. Uh, oh, I just remembered that besides my normal stuff, I have to get to work on that bulette carcass. It's good eating, yes, but it's not going to be easy for one poor girl to handle until I get it into ten pound chunks. And those bones! Tough as the shell. Looks like I'll have to burn a couple more charges on that Blade of Carving if I want to be able to do anything else today.
And today! The first day of Horzte's TOURNAMENT. He'll even turn on that Portal thing-a-ma-jig to bring in people from other worlds and universes. I hope they like small towns and aren't disappointed at the small field. Over in Vergaantz, they do these things in stadiums (stadia? I wish there was a spelling imp I could trust with you, Diary.) But Horzte says Experience Is Experience, whether you earn it in a big arena or in your living room. And he would, earn Experience in the living room, if we let him. "Here, lay out this tarp to protect the rug, all right? I brought a few bugbears I have to kill. There's a melee on tomorrow, and I want to be up a level."
But I natter on.
Oh, speaking about Vergaantz, they've sent a few representatives to join in. One of the women stayed all day at the bar, just to annoy me, I think. Get this: Her name is Vendetta! Whooo-whee, are those Veggies suckers for ominousness (ominimity? ominomosity?) or what? Anyway, this armoured snip of a girl was cracking wise about this and that every time I turned around.
She did calm down a bit when she spotted a fellow she liked to look at. He wandered in with a bunch of other travelers --- odd thing is that even though they came into town on a coach from the East, they'd been traveling the desert for several days. You can always tell, the way their knees turn to jelly at the sound of two words: hot bath.
Anyway, the apple of Little Miss Vendetta's eye seems to be a woodsperson of some sort, and he only has eyes for another woodsperson. And SHE comes complete with her own bird! Hanging around with them was a kid -- that reminds me, I must write up an explanation of what chili is -- who almost got herself fatally backhanded by the Malign Miss V, except that would be against the rules. Gee, it's nice to have the rules be against the Vergaantzers every now and then. It's also nice that most of them are staying in their own little encampment, rather than here. Evil snots!
Speaking about Law and the order of things, a dwarf, a cleric of Moradin sauntered into town and signed up for the Tourney. Then he spent the rest of the day, and evening, in Sammi's room talking to the archeologists who just happened to have made an important (to them, anyway) discovery in the capsized Temple. What a coinky-dink. So we were Very Cooperative, let the record show. Anyway, Sammi says the padre was able to get some surprising info out of the guys.
So it's going to be quite a day, with all these heroes and hero wannabes bashing each other to within inches of their afterlives, then getting healed by potions and clerics, then going at it again. Sounds like hungry work. I hope they like bulette meat.
Will our humble town survive? You'll be among the first to know.
That's all for now!
Later, Suzzi
Date: Sun Sep 13, 1998 19:34:02 From: just john To: All Repl: 2100081, Michael Durant; 2100207, Bab; 2102370, FireOpalFor the first time in a while, the whole party spends the night inside, freshly washed and comfortably asleep with no guard duties and no stars to watch. Sleep is sound.
The sun's rising and it sounds like half the town is going about their business right outside. From downstairs comes the scent of breakfast -- meats, eggs, coffee, newly-baked bread, coffee, oatmeal, coffee ...
The party members roll out of their bunks to greet the day in their own particular ways.
Once they go downstairs, they find the dwarf section of Penshah's is closed until lunch, which means that all the breakfast is in Suzzi's domain.
To the north, windows look out on activity in the road and across it. People are hustling about, getting the last touches set for the Tournament field. Some come barging breathlessly into the place, to grab baskets of breakfast sandwiches and carry them off to people in the field. Others bring in empty water bags and leave with full ones. A young dwarf comes careening out of the kitchen, pushing a cart with a steaming metal contraption built into it. It flashes out the door, leaving a coffee aroma in its wake. The dwarf maneuvers it precariously across the road's traffic and disappears beyond the horse stables that hide most of the field from view.
Come to think of it, those banners you see beyond the top of the roof of the main stable weren't there yesterday. A query yields the answer that they're all banners for the various nomad clans, each of which has set up a booth or two along the temporary path beyond the field -- they call it the "Midway."
The young dwarf returns without the cart, but otherwise no worse for the wear. He stops for a minute to grab a gulp of water and to say something to Suzzi. She nods and he dashes back into the kitchen.
She finally comes over to the party's table (that's why you were all looking so longingly to the north, right?) with a pitcher of coffee and takes your orders. She's in a very good mood. She says to Lysandra and Mistletoe, "Well, it looks like congratulations are already in order!"
Out the south window, things are less hectic in the dawn's light -- the swimming pool's probably a bit cold for swimming.
To the west, the tops of the palm trees catch the sun and cast long shadows across the oasis and into the desert itself. Across the desert is that line of hills. From near their center, a tiny line of black smoke rises straight upwards.
It's a couple hours until the Official Opening of the Tournament.
Date: Sun Sep 13, 1998 23:14:09 From: Michael Durant To: just john
The rumbling in his belly was a stronger inducement to rise than the noises from outside, barely audible over the snoring of the rooms occupants. Rising quietly he takes a moment to wash his face and hands before morning prayers. As the grumbling gets more acute, he heads down to the mouth watering aromas wafting up the stairs.
Well he was a bit disconcerted that the Dwarven section was closed when he came down. Not that it was a big problem, just surprising.
Maybe the cousins in this area are not early risers. But no concern. Suzzi was serving and by the smell of it, and there seemed to be plenty.
He noticed the other group, the ones that cam in about the same time he had, but picked a table to the side near a window so he could survey the activities outside. seems they are just about ready.
The gnawing at his middle is quite pronounced, and I do want to be able to perform well in His service. He approaches the bar hoping to order a hearty meal.
MikeD
Date: Mon Sep 14, 1998 08:41:11 From: Bab To: just john Repl: 2100574, Michael Durant
The smell of coffee nearly levitates the girl down the stairs. She's become quite a junkie of the bean beverage since being introduced to it by Lamont.
She notes Tufin already seated as she hits the floor and nods a friendly greeting. She can hardly contain her anxiousness as she waits for Suzzi's time. The girls toes tap out a rapid and chaotic tune on the floor while they wait.
Surprisingly she waits patiently (a very relative term here) while the rest of the group pours their coffee once the pitcher has been dropped at the table. Once the steaming mug is in her hands, she savors the aroma lingeringly before taking that first sip. Her approach to the coffee is almost reverential.
Bab
Date: Mon Sep 14, 1998 21:42:11 From: Michael Durant To: Bab Repl: 2100610, just john
The old cleric returns the acknowledgment, nice girl he thinks
as he returns to his coffee thoughts and such.
MikeD
Date: Mon Sep 14, 1998 22:48:04 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2100618, Michael Durant(The girl, plus the two woodsperson-looking fullsized folk she's with were here yesterday. Now they've been joined by a gnome.)
(The gnome has been around long enough to recognize the holy insignia of Moradin on the dwarf Tufin's outfit.)
Date: Mon Sep 14, 1998 23:03:05 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2101908, Bab
The gnome has been around long enough to recognize the holy insignia of Moradin on the dwarf Tufin's outfit.As well he should!! :-)
MikeD
Date: Thu Sep 17, 1998 08:50:14 From: Bab To: All All Repl: 2102335, Michael Durant
After a few moments of sipping her coffee, Lysandra looks about the room again. Eventually her eyes fall on the dwarf, sitting alone, a few tables away. She stares at the symbol on his robe for a moment, trying to recall Perry's reactions to it the previous evening. She can only recall that it's something religious.
So, frustrated by her lack of memory and her unsatisfied curiosity, she excuses her self and wanders over to his table. "Good Morning, sir. I'm Lysandra. What does that symbol mean?"
She drops right into her questions with little or no subtlety. It's not really a rudeness, it's just bright eyed curiosity.
After talking to Tufin for a few moments and upon noting Perry's entrance, Lysandra waves the Gnome over to the table as well.
Bab
Date: Thu Sep 17, 1998 22:42:09 From: Michael Durant To: Bab Repl: 2105457, FireOpal; 2105696, Spydah!
Somewhat surprised as the female approaches, he none the less does manage to find his feet, his chair creaking in relief as the feet skreech back a bit.
Bowing to her, he replies in kind. "Tufin will do. There is a lot more, but it tends to bore non-dwarven types." As he finishes a twinkle in his eye, more than the smile, all but hidden beneath beard and mustache, reveal his less than serious mood.
Indicating a seat at the table, he then takes his own. "The symbol is the symbol of He whom I serve, Moradin the Soul Forger. What God or Goddess do you serve?"
MikeD
Date: Thu Sep 17, 1998 23:34:10 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2104220, just john
The druid smiles at Suzzi and the coffee, not *entirely* sure why she's being congratulated. She peeks around looking for Nivek before ordering a hearty breakfast. The dawn light highlights the copper in her hair, now nicely shiny thanks to that wonderful bath last night.
"So, are we all going to join the Tourney? I'm thinking I will... feeling a little rusty though. It seems like ages ago since I've sparred."
While waiting for the food the half elf woman will take the small hawk, that has been quietly perched on her shoulder, outside to let him free for a morning flight and feed. She instructs him to wait perched nearby the Inn if she's not back outside when he returns.
Date: Mon Sep 21, 1998 17:28:13 From: just john To: FireOpal
While waiting for the food the half elf woman will take the small hawk, that has been quietly perched on her shoulder, outside to let him free for a morning flight and feed.It's a lot noisier outside, with people and horses coming and going. Toward the center of town, a couple horn players are practicing a fanfare. They've just about got it right.
Ashfelor smells a rat. For a hawk, that's a good thing. He's off and hunting.
Date: Wed Sep 23, 1998 23:22:14 From: FireOpal To: Michael Durant Repl: 2105650, Nivek; 2105899, Michael Durant
"Moradin? ... Moradin.. Why does that name sound so familiar??" the druid mutters as she tries to recall where she heard that before. "Oh! Isn't there a temple or something around here to him?" she says as ingenuously as she can, even widening her eyes innocently. She risks a look to see if Nivek picked up the God's name also as the one who's temple they were supposed to visit, er... last night. It must have been the ale, yeah that's it, she drank more than she usually does and just plumb forgot their mission here....
Date: Thu Sep 24, 1998 11:43:12 From: Nivek To: FireOpal
He drank this coffee beverage, realizing that it was something he wanted each morning now. Never one for many words, he listened to Mistletoe interrogate the dwarf. When she looked ot him, he had the same thoughts of something they had heard before, something they should know about.
He listened more carefully now to the conversation between the pretty druid and dwarf.
- Nivek
Date: Thu Sep 24, 1998 12:53:13 From: Spydah! To: Michael Durant
A gnome approaches the table after being motioned over by Lysandra. He seems happy to see her.
He can be easily described as a short guy wearing clashing, colorful clothing and an oversized straw hat adorned with dangling fuzzy red balls, and eyelets cut out so he can see.
Tufin's reply to the girl is interrupted by his entrance and hello's.
"How do you do Mr. Tubby, my name's Perrapell, but most people call me Perry for short - mostly because I am."
-S
Date: Thu Sep 24, 1998 21:32:07 From: Michael Durant To: FireOpal Repl: 2106450, Spydah!; 2106604, FireOpal
"Well more of an ex-temple really. A remnant of the shattering buried out in the glass out there," he waves in the general direction that he thinks it is.
He glances up as the gnome approaches, "Well a good morning to you as well. And in what language does 'Perry' mean short? I am vaguely familiar with several and do not know this one." The twinkle in his eye could be merriment. Including the newcomer in the conversation he continues.
"I was sort of on my way out here to take a look, a pilgrimage, but also ..." he leans forward a bit, as the excitement of something important to him, warms in him, "I don't know how much you know ... or care to know," he leans back a bit and smiles, whiskers moving, "but you see, the clergy is sort of divided on the issue of what to do now." He looks into her eyes, "Presumptuous me," his full of mirth, "I decided I should see what all of the fuss was about for myself, make my own decision."
Some of the intensity fades as he continues, "When I got here I heard about the tournament and decided the place has been there a while, it can wait for me to relax and sport about some." he takes a drink from his steaming mug, "What is your story? ... if you will pardon my presumption is asking.?
MikeD
Date: Sat Sep 26, 1998 01:04:12 From: Spydah! To: Michael Durant Repl: 2106656, Michael Durant
He glances up as the gnome approaches, "Well a good morning to you as well.And in what language does 'Perry' mean short? I am vaguely familiar with several and do not know this one."
The gnome looks at the Dwarf quizzically at first. "Perry doesn't
*mean* 'short', it *is* short for 'Perrapell'," he interrupts matter-of-factly.
-S
Date: Sat Sep 26, 1998 13:03:06 From: FireOpal To: Michael Durant Repl: 2107944, Spydah!
When the druid notices that Perry is there, she glances over in surprise and blurts out, "Where in the name of the Sacred Grove have you been?!" She flushes a little, surprising herself with the outburst and not sure she should have said anything anyway...
Turning her attention back to Tufin, as much to recover her composure as to continue the conversation, she inquires, "Umm.. what is there to know about that temple or ex temple? Sounds like there might be an interesting story involved!" Her emerald-green eyes are bright with curiosity as they rest on the odd priest, awaiting his explanation. "As for us, or at least me, I've ended up here because I wanted to learn more about the world - seeking knowledge and adventure .... (her fingers idly caress the runes carved into her staff as she speaks) of which I have certainly had! Now...., about that temple?" She grins encouragingly at Tufin, as if to say she'll tell her story if he tells his....
Date: Sat Sep 26, 1998 15:36:14 From: Michael Durant To: Spydah! Repl: 2107144, just john; 2108497, FireOpal
Trying to gauge the mood of the newcomer, "Hmm ..." he glances at his tablemate, "and I thought gnomes were supposed to have such a keen sense of humor. Guess I heard wrong." he finishes with wink to Mistletoe before returning to their conversation.
"Well there are basically two factions with differing opinions. One group figures that it would be too much work. The place is encased in glass and mostly upside down. They think the resources could be put to better use starting over from scratch at a more appealing location. The other group feels that no amount of effort is too great to restore that structure. Since He has not been willing to offer His opinion, the debate continues." He pauses occasionally during the narrative to sip the hot brew before him.
MikeD
Date: Sun Sep 27, 1998 14:29:07 From: just john To: Michael Durant(People are coming and going while this conversation is happening. Some take seats at tables nearby, but nobody looks like they're eavesdropping.)
(Also, about this time, Bandor and a couple of his friends come shuffling out into the room from where they'd evidently been sleeping. They look like they think their heads will fall off if they move too quickly. They mutter something to Suzzi, who replies, "Oh, that's all right. I heard all about it from Sammi." They start shuffling toward the door, to leave.)
Date: Tue Sep 29, 1998 02:56:09 From: Spydah! To: FireOpal Repl: 2108443, Michael Durant; 2108496, FireOpal
When the druid notices that Perry is there, she glances over in surprise andblurts out, "Where in thename of the Sacred Grove have you been?!"
The druid's exclamation clearly takes the gnome by surprise as he
jumps out of his seat and shakes involuntarily. "It wasn't m... Oh it's
you! You shouldn't go about scarring people like that, they're likely to
become frightened!"
She flushes a little, surprising herself with the outburst and not sure she should have said anything anyway...
"Anyway, I think Lamont got mad at me and left me behind," he explains
after catching his breath, "how did everything go?"
-S
Date: Tue Sep 29, 1998 22:35:00 From: Michael Durant To: Spydah! Repl: 2108742, Spydah!
The dwarf watches the the exchange, the beard slowly revealing a big grin as he determines the true nature of the exchange. "Why not join us," he asks the newcomer, indicating a vacant chair.
MikeD
Date: Tue Sep 29, 1998 23:18:14 From: FireOpal To: Spydah! Repl: 2108611, Nivek; 2108740, Spydah!
<Mistletoe>
"We had a nice relaxing evening, and a wonderful bath! And that is IT," she says, trying to emphasis that nothing really did happen. Hopefully Nivek will reign in the little troublemaker before he shoots his mouth off any more of in front of this priest of The Temple.
Date: Tue Sep 29, 1998 23:18:14 From: FireOpal To: Michael Durant
Trying to see if she can get more information from the priestly guy, she asks him, "What's so special about that structure anyway? Isn't it just a temple? .. No offense of course! I mean, it isn't the only temple for Moradin, or whatever his name is, is it?? "
<Mistletoe>
Date: Wed Sep 30, 1998 07:16:14 From: Nivek To: FireOpal Repl: 2108741, Spydah!
He chuckles at the sight he imagines of the little halfling running after the caravan.
When Mistletoe puts emphasis on nothing much happening, he realizes what she doesn't want him to blurt out. He can feel his cheeks turning crimson at the distasteful thought of them being thieves. Getting his composure back as fast as he can, he turns to the little guy.
"Its been fine here. Just a slow relaxing evening. Haven't even seen much of the place yet."
- Nivek
Date: Wed Sep 30, 1998 14:33:08 From: Spydah! To: FireOpal
Perry looks puzzled at the woman's response, "But what about the..." he begins to ask when he is interrupted by Nivek.
Date: Wed Sep 30, 1998 14:33:09 From: Spydah! To: Nivek
The gnome turns to Nivek, "Hey, didn't see you there, how have you been?" he asks, temporarily distracted.
Date: Wed Sep 30, 1998 14:33:09 From: Spydah! To: Michael Durant
"Why not join us," he asks the newcomer, indicating a vacant chair.The gnome accepts the invitation. "Thank you very much," he says as he sits with the group.
-S
Date: Sun Oct 11, 1998 22:09:07 From: just john To: All Repl: 2115113, Michael Durant; 2115683, FireOpalTufin has been sitting with Nivek, Mistletoe, Lysandra and Perry as they strenuously assure him that their previous evening was indeed unexceptional and quiet.
Over at the bar, Suzzi finishes talking to the archeologists. They shuffle out the door to be ("Gah!") momentarily stunned anew by the sunlight there, then they recover and are gone, out of Tufin's sight.
Out the window, anybody facing north might notice a wild-eyed dwarf with a club and wooden shield hustling a human clad only in an attempted kilt toward the center of town. [That would be Agnar and Phineas.]
Suzzi picks up a fresh pot of coffee and comes over to the table with the party's breakfast orders.
(The selection included eggs of various configurations, sausages, bulette bacon, oatmeal, rolls, butter, mushrooms, hotcakes, apples, oranges ...)
She refreshes the cups that need it.
"There you go! Anything else for the moment?"
Date: Sun Oct 11, 1998 23:25:14 From: Michael Durant To: just john
The Dwarf seems quite content to sip from his newly freshened mug and to sample the food from the plate. Stealing glances at the continuing bustle outside he continues to visit with these new acquaintance.
MikeD
Date: Mon Oct 12, 1998 22:42:06 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2115689, Michael Durant; 2116184, just john
Enjoying the breakfast (oatmeal and fruit), she awaits more info from Tufin about his temple. If none is forthcoming she'll finish eating and announce her intention to join up for the tourney.
Date: Mon Oct 12, 1998 23:16:02 From: Michael Durant To: FireOpal
"Ah! I think I got signed up yesterday... or do we need to do something with those," he indicates the bustle outside the window, "out there?"
MikeD
Date: Tue Oct 13, 1998 21:02:07 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2116288, Michael DurantThe sounds from outside have grown, with a crowd evidently watching a street performance. They're laughing and clapping ...
Date: Tue Oct 13, 1998 23:33:02 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2118011, FireOpal; 2119118, just john
The dwarf cranes his neck to try for a view of whatever has gotten the crowd going so early in the morning. "Have the contests started already?" He asks no one in particular.
MikeD
Date: Fri Oct 16, 1998 15:59:10 From: FireOpal To: Michael Durant Repl: 2118151, Michael Durant; 2119588, Spydah!
She notes the commotion outside and decides it'd be better to wait until things have quieted down before venturing out. Besides, with Perry in tow, she thinks, she'd need all the concentration she can muster to keep him out of trouble. Perhaps Lysandra would be willing to take on that task, they seem to get along well....
Date: Fri Oct 16, 1998 20:10:04 From: Michael Durant To: FireOpal
Turning reluctantly back from the window, "So does anyone know what time things are supposed to get started over there ... the tournament I mean" he adds glancing back once more at the commotion that now seems to be breaking up.
MikeD
Date: Sun Oct 18, 1998 15:12:06 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2119451, Michael Durant
"Have the contests started already?" He asks no one in particular.Somebody near the window replies, "There's a guy out there doing some pre-match challenging, I think."
He looks in the other direction. "It looks like they're about to get started with the opening ceremonies."
Date: Sun Oct 18, 1998 22:00:11 From: Michael Durant To: just john
"Ah, then I guess I must take my leave. I need to get my arms and armor and make sure I don't miss my spot." he stands a after a quick bow the those enjoying the table with him, hurries out and back to his room to equip himself.
MikeD
Date: Mon Oct 19, 1998 01:54:06 From: Spydah! To: FireOpal Repl: 2120849, FireOpal
The gnome stares out the window, then turns to the druid, "What sort of tournament is going n out there anyway?"
-S
Date: Wed Oct 21, 1998 02:51:04 From: FireOpal To: Spydah! Repl: 2123918, Spydah!; 2124072, just john
"The kind where you fight for fun. Oh, and as a prize, you get to fight a dragon or something..." She doesn't sound too enthusiastic about the last part. "There are healers standing by of course, so no one should get too hurt. I wonder if the same is true when you fight the dragon too?"
The elfin woman finishes up her coffee and heads for the door to find out about signing up. Once outside, Ashfelor alights on her specially padded shoulder. He's jittery, probably because of the crowds now dispersing, but she eschews the hood and jesses - soothing him with a couple of whispers. Before heading off, she looks back to see if the rest are coming too.
Date: Mon Oct 26, 1998 00:36:01 From: Spydah! To: FireOpal Repl: 2124626, FireOpal; 2124796, just john
"Are you going to fight somethin'?" asks the gnome, quickly catching up. "If you are, I can help you win by standing on the other side of the arena and when you give the signal, I'll get out my shinny glass and hit 'em in the eyes with sunlight, then SLASH -- you take their head!" Perry accents the 'SLASH' with an animated wave of his arm.
"Whatdaya think?" he asks excitedly.
-S
Date: Mon Oct 26, 1998 10:36:01 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2124627, FireOpalShe gets out the door as Agnar's crowd is mostly past, and she gets to hear the tail end of the muttering about the wild-eyed dwarve's brash challenges.
Ashfelor's been watching Agnar, so Mistletoe gets an oddly-angled visual flash of his dragging the nearly-naked Phineas to right in front of the big metal building and of his harangue to the crowd. As far as the bird's concerned, it's just silly mammal behavior.
Anyway, the crowd's all heading to the Tournament grounds and it's only a minute or two until Mistletoe finds herself in front of Brandee's desk.
Brandee writes down data as Mistletoe recites, then she gives her a quick up-and-down look. "So ... Druid/cleric standing weapon combat? Which weapon will we be using today?"
Date: Tue Oct 27, 1998 01:16:03 From: FireOpal To: Spydah!
<<Mistletoe>>
Giving an exaggerated roll of her eyes at the dwarf, she can't help but to be amused at his eagerness. "Perry, I don't really think that's fair. But, thanks for the offer. This should just be for fun.... I hope."
Date: Tue Oct 27, 1998 01:16:04 From: FireOpal To: just john
Caught off-guard by the sudden flash in her hawk friend's perception, she nearly stumbles. She wonders what all that fuss was about... ?
In reply to Brandee, "Staff and hawk." Maybe she and Nivek can do teams... No, someone has to watch that darn Perry.
Date: Tue Oct 27, 1998 12:35:10 From: just john To: Spydah! Repl: 2129465, Spydah!As Perry follows Mistletoe through the crowd, he doesn't see any others of his gnomish height. Yes, there are dwarves about, but mostly what Perry sees are feet and legs to avoid and the various things people hang on themselves ... shields, swords, clubs, coin purses ...
Date: Sun Nov 1, 1998 16:19:10 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2128617, FireOpalBrandee hmmms, absently twirling a bit of her hair with a pinkie.
"Staff and hawk ... Staff and hawk ... We don't have much in the way of bird-assisted entrants. Would you settle for a few staff bouts for the time being, like until somebody with another hawk shows up?"
Date: Sun Nov 1, 1998 16:19:11 From: just john To: AllThe sound of trumpets summons everybody to the Tournament grounds.
All the planning and last-minute carpentry has come to this. In the city of Hotdamm, in between the tents of the Plukiduck nomads, a fairground has sprung up. A line of tents offers food, drink and souvenirs for mere money. A glowing portal offers access to other worlds. Town guards stand by, their armor newly buffed. Hundreds of people from a score of lands and a dozen worlds mill about.
All for the opportunity to see some fighting.
There are two octagonal rings for close-up combat, one at the east end of the grounds and the other at the west end. The raised floor of the rings appears to be canvas, and there are stout ropes for fencing the fighters in (or the observers out, depending on your point of view.)
Between the two rings is a long jousting area with actual dirt and turf. (The grass wasn't there yesterday -- evidently there's at least one druid on the payroll.) This is also fenced off, with an entrance for horses at the west end.
The rest of the area is like the rest of the town and surrounding "desert" -- covered in glass. (It's not slippery, unless you're just wearing socks. (And if you are, that's a dandy way to build up a static charge.))
Once the trumpets finish playing, Horzte steps up to the podium and speaks. His voice is amplified by some spell or other magic device.
"Ladies, gentlemen, creatures from near and far! Children of all ages and epochs! On behalf of the City Elders of Hotdamm and the Collective Clan Council of Plukiduck, I welcome you to the First Tournament of Hotdamm!
"My name is Horzte, and I'll be your master of ceremonies."
He juts out his chin with pride. It's a chin with a blonde beard, though he has no mustache. His splint armor is white enamel with black lines. It looks vaguely wickerish. He has a big sword on his back, and a helm on the podium.
He continues his opening remarks, introducing the Mayor and pointing out where the main first aid tent is. He advises people not to wander into the interdimensional portal ["P" on the map] unless that's how they arrived. He observes that the Tournament management is not responsible for anything that might occur to anybody wandering into a fighting area without authorization. He mentions that jousting will begin in the afternoon and that standing combat will start immediately.
He wishes everybody good luck and a fun time, and then he's through talking. There's some applause and he looks relieved. He mops his brow and walks over to the registration line.
The first bouts are Agnar in the east ring and Tufin in the west one.
[Mistletoe's registering. The rest of you (that are here) have a bit of time to wander about and get into trouble.]
Date: Sun Nov 1, 1998 16:19:11 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2128123, Wrecan"In this ring! Agnar Stonecutter, the wild-eyed dwarf cleric of an unknown deity faces Kragg, the kobold cleric, representing the Kobold Liberation Army, Incorporated!"
The announcer / referee lowers his voice and says to the combatants, "Boys, say your prayers and come out fighting when the bell rings."
That first part was meant literally, and Kragg takes a moment. He's two-thirds Agnar's height, and he's covered head-to-toe in blackened metal. There isn't much style to his armor, except for a rivet motif along the edges. He bears a metal hammer and a dented steel shield that doesn't match his armor.
The (metal) bell rings, and the kobold starts circling leftward.
Date: Sun Nov 1, 1998 16:19:12 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2128007, Michael DurantThe man in the referee outfit also does the announcing.
"In this ring! Tufin Mormain, cleric of Moradin --" (scattered applause from the crowd) "-- faces Remonstrance Alnmoor from the Marches of Vergaantz!" (many boos plus one cheer from V. Alnmoor, who's seated comfortably in the stands)
Remonstrance is a large human, and his armor is similar to V. Alnmoor's. It's plate metal with red glazing. A dark beard juts from under the metal helm. He has a silver-tipped quarterstaff and no shield.
He blesses himself and is ready when the bell sounds. He takes one step forward and holds his weapon ready for Tufin's attack.
Date: Sun Nov 1, 1998 23:01:09 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2128401, just john
His full plate armor, while not exactly gleaming, is clean and does shine a bit. The token of his god, the hammer and anvil, prominent on his breast plate. Shield, plain and serviceable is on his arm, a well used hammer hung at his side, he waits, his long brown hair and beard are neatly braided. His nut brown, slightly weathered features seem to stand out next to the bright reflections of his armor.
When his name is called, there is a brief moment of butterflies, *so many watchers. have to uphold His honor!* before he steps boldly into the ring, his queasiness vanishing as he focuses on his training and his opponent.
It always reminded him of the days of training with the weapons instructors. At first he resented the time it took from his religious devotions, but he soon came to understand it's importance. *but that is for other times, how is for fighting!* he pulls his mind back to the important matters at hand.
His stone gray eyes are filled with a piercing intensity and intelligence as he studies the man across the ring. *Quite a bit taller, take advantage of that, come in low* he thinks as he watches him. *But don't under estimate his speed.*
In no hurry to make a mistake, he is content to let his opponent make the first move so that he ma be studied, his strengths and weaknesses gauged.
MikeD
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 09:01:11 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2128155, just johnooc: Can Agnar's preparatory prayer be Heat Metal on his opponent?
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 11:22:06 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2128233, Wrecanooc: Can Agnar's preparatory prayer be Heat Metal on his opponent?
[You betcha! It's officially for blessings, curses and such, but if you let the spell fly as the bell rings, well, that's clerics for you ... That's also why they're classed differently from fighters for these bouts.]
[Oh, yum! Roast kobold!]
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 14:14:06 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2128403, just john
During the time allotted for prayer, Agnar kneels to his anonymous deity for help in overcoming this horrible wielder of sinful metals. (ooc: he is casting Heat Metal on the hapless kobold)
Then, once the bell rings, he spends his time casually avoiding the kobold (who, in his armor has got to be half the speed of unarmored Agnar, at best!) While waiting for his foe to slowly cook in his own juices, Agnar will preach to the crowd, keeping his shield facing the kobold, and all the while trying to keep out of the young priest's range.
"Behold the weakness that metal wreaks on the innocent and guilty alike! It is a shame, a sin and you should all renounce the sinful ways that comes when the earth is raped and ore is taken unwilling from her bosom!!! Renounce your metal! Follow the true path of the light! Destroy your metal, destroy your weapons, destroy the chains that bind you!!"
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 18:21:05 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2128501, Michael Durant
In no hurry to make a mistake, he is content to let his opponent make the first move so that he ma be studied, his strengths and weaknesses gauged.The opponent steps and swings the quarterstaff downward in a fluid motion, like a lumberjack splitting a log. But the staff misses its mark and thuds the canvas loudly to Tufin's left.
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 18:21:05 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2128872, WrecanKragg makes as if to lunge at Agnar, but then he stops and starts speaking angry words -- probably koboldish, and probably not fit for young kobold ears. He backs away and drops his weapon.
As Agnar preaches, the kobold quickly doffs his helm to reveal a very annoyed look indeed.
The crowd's laughing -- some at Agnar's preaching, but mostly at the kobold.
With an expression of growing urgency, he gets both gauntlet gloves off and sits down, cussing all the while. He's gotten his left boot off when smoke begins to curl upward from where his armor touches the canvas.
He howls once, then repeats it in Common: "I GIVE! I GIVE, you <something in koboldish> of an unmarried <something else in koboldish>"
The (metal) bell rings and two women in robes dash into the ring and attend to Kragg.
The referee goes to Agnar and raises his hand in victory. "The winnerrr!"
Date: Mon Nov 2, 1998 20:38:10 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2129781, just john
Somewhat surprised at the swiftness of his attack, the dwarf, does manage to step aside in time ... or maybe in his haste his blow was poorly directed. In any event, Tufin begins to unlimber his hammer arm and now has his shield at the ready as he begins to get into the battle mind. He moves up onto the balls of his feet, moving with a deceptive lightness as he begins to move this way and that, feint and close, looking for an opening when he can close and attack, watching for another attack from his opponent.
MikeD
Date: Tue Nov 3, 1998 00:10:13 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2128783, Nivek; 2129783, just john
"Of course, just let me know what I need to do. If you have any partner fights, I'd like to fight with Nivek...." Smiling at Brandee, she waits for her instructions.
Date: Tue Nov 3, 1998 07:14:08 From: Matioki To: just john Repl: 2129782, just john
The goblin ran around the corner, into a ramshackle wooden building and carefully closed the door behind him to avoid having the structure crash down upon him. He allowed himself the luxury of briefly leaning against the door and taking a deep breath. Then he adjusted his backpack and looked around. It was a good thing there were so many of these derelict warehouses in this quarter of Landorport, especially when one had the misfortune of being chased by that half-mad half-elf Desrond's favourite hobgoblin. How many times did he have to tell him that he would pay back the money really soon ?
But something was strange about this warehouse. Jenredykk spotted an odd glow in the far corner. Walking up to it, it turned out to be some sort of portal with a note stuck next to it. He grabbed the paper.
"Hmm... Hotdamm, world of Zam! ? Never heard of it, but it sure sounds worth a visit. A contest, a blue dragon... sounds more like a trap to me."
"Dykkie-boy, I know you're hiding here somewhere ! Just stay where you are, I can smell your fear," came the well-known organ of Ugly Mufg from outside. "Fear indeed ! All he can smell is his own stench," Jenredykk muttered. Your relatives could be a real pain sometimes. "Oh well.." He stepped into the portal.
Date: Tue Nov 3, 1998 09:35:04 From: Nivek To: FireOpal Repl: 2129786, just john
Silently, he stands near Mistletoe, watching the strange goings on, still wondering if coming to this most unusual land was such a good idea.
- nivek
Date: Tue Nov 3, 1998 14:52:07 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2129784, just john
ooc: Is the referee carrying any metal?
Agnar shows neither joy nor satisfaction at his victory. He looks to the kobold.
"Renounce your dependence on metal and follow my just god and fear no more."
He turns back to the crowd.
"I will accept any challenge from a sinner who bears accursed metal! For the glory of my god!"
-Mark
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 13:26:07 From: Spydah! To: just john Repl: 2129787, just john
In the midst of avoiding getting trampled, Perry realizes most of the tall folk either think he's a kid or don't see him at all. Some of them even have purses right about gnome level.
He is suddenly distracted from the tournament altogether. Perry begins to wonder if anyone would miss a few extra pouches weighing them down during their combats. He thinks they probably wouldn't. In fact some might enjoy the added freedom of having less weight around the belt virtually pinning them to the ground. The gnome smiles and fumbles for a small knife in one of his pouches.
-S
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:10 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2129878, Michael DurantThe other guy snarls a bit at Tufin's evasions and makes a show of flourishing his big piece of metal-tipped wood. In a moment, this gives Tufin what looks like a good opportunity for attack.
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:11 From: just john To: Matioki
"Oh well.." He stepped into the portal.On the other side, it's bright morning sunlight.
There are a few hundred people of various types milling about. Some are eating food, some are standing in line, some are watching a fight, and a few are doing all three. There are market-style tents selling food, trinkets, beer, fortunetelling and other stuff. Except for the long jousting track, the ground is uninterrupted glass.
Thirty feet away to the left, a fight's going on in a raised octagonal ring. A big human in red armor is swinging his quarterstaff at a sidestepping dwarf. (That last one is Tufin.)
To the right is a desk next to a sign that reads, "Tournament Contestants Register Here!" Doing that are a couple of people wearing woodland gear -- and this whole thing is in the middle of a desert -- plus a really short guy in a huge hat. (These are Mistletoe, Nivek and Perry. [And maybe Lysandra, if bab's back from Ireland.])
Some of the people are gawking at Jenredykk, as if they'd never seen anybody looking like him.
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:11 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2130022, FireOpalBrandee flips through her papers and a-has.
"I think I'll match you up with Phineas Rafferty. He's a professor, you know, though he's wearing next to nothing. Anyway, he has a Shi-whooziewhatzis he's quite proud of. It's a kind of magical club."
"You can go at it in twenty minutes or so. How's that sound?"
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:12 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2130053, Wrecan
ooc: Is the referee carrying any metal?[(die roll) Agnar doesn't see any metal on the ref.]
He looks to the kobold. "Renounce your dependence on metal and follow my just god and fear no more."The kobold's made it through the full cycle of the Heat Metal spell, and now some other kobolds are there with him. He snorts, "Yeah. Sure."
The crowd isn't too impressed with Agnar's exhortation, though somebody says, "Hey, my cousin has an accursed sword. But he's given up fighting because of it."
The ref hustles Agnar out of the ring, saying, "Okay, check with Brandee for your next bout."
Phineas comes up to Agnar and says, "Hey, that was pretty neat! How many times a day can you do that?"
(If Agnar heads right back to Brandee's desk, he may meet Mistletoe, Nivek and Perry. Jenredykk, a green fellow of no race Agnar's ever seen, has just come through the portal and is near the desk. If Agnar stops to watch the bout in the other ring, that includes Tufin (in full plate armor) fighting a big guy, also in metal.)
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:13 From: just john To: NivekSpeaking of unusual lands, this registration desk is only a few feet away from the portal to other worlds. Through this comes a person of a race Nivek's never seen. He's five and a half feet tall, green, has a black cap with blue feather, a sparkling pendant in the shape of a butterfly, a brown cloak ...
(This is Jenredykk. He can complete his description if/when you guys start talking.)
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 21:16:13 From: just john To: Spydah!While Perry's preparing his tools and looking about, somebody comes out of a nearby door ["P" on the map] without having first gone in through the other side.
There's a sign there saying "CAUTION! Portal to Other Worlds! Returns not guaranteed!" so that explains that, but the guy who has come through is of a sort Perry's never seen before. For starters, even though he's human-sized, he's green ...
(That's Jenredykk.)
Date: Wed Nov 4, 1998 23:36:10 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2132450, just john
*Ah ... a show off* The dwarf wastes no time in taking advantage. He steps in and aims his hammer to the fellows knee *slow him down first*
MikeD
Date: Thu Nov 5, 1998 10:19:11 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2130054, Wrecan; 2130656, Matioki
"Sounds fine. Where will the bout be?" She looks around, doing a double-take at the green guy. "What in the world is THAT?!" she exclaims.
<<Mistletoe>>
Date: Thu Nov 5, 1998 11:58:11 From: Wrecan To: just john
As Agnar is led out of the ring, he shouts to the shaman, "Great! Come see me at my inn and I'll teach you all about our god's tenets!"
Oblivious to the shaman's sarcasm, he stops to watch the bout between the two armored fighters for a few seconds, but seeing nobody worth rooting for, he continues on.
Phineas comes up to Agnar and says, "Hey, that was pretty neat! How many times a day can you do that?""I did nothing. I am but a humble dwarf. That was the benevolent protection of my god who will protect me from unworthy metal wielders. Come, let us register for the next battle."
He then continues on to Brandee...
-Mark
Date: Thu Nov 5, 1998 12:02:08 From: Wrecan To: FireOpal Repl: 2138798, just john
The victorious dwarf enters the tavern, followed by his sidekick Phineas (or at least, Agnar thinks Phineas is his sidekick). He declares to the assembly:
"By the great glory of my god, I am victorious. I am here to register for tomorrow's bout and I will continue until this city has been convinced to renounce their sinful ways!"
He then gets on line at the registration desk. He looks a bit askance at the green-skinned man, but chooses to say nothing. It's not like Agnar hasn't gotten his own share of odd looks.
-Mark
Date: Fri Nov 6, 1998 11:09:00 From: Matioki To: FireOpal Repl: 2131442, FireOpal
He stands there for a while, blinking at the blinding sun and then at the odd, gleaming ground he is standing on. Very unusual but not unwelcome. Looking around, he takes in his surroundings. Ah, a bazaar, great, he is going to enjoy this place ! But he will have to watch the fights a bit before deciding about joining this contest. There seem to be more than enough other opportunities in this town.
As he is about to walk over to the ring, someone at the desk calls out at him.
The thin, green-skinned humanoid strolls to the desk, lifts his black cap and bows his bald head.
"That is Jenredykk Glonnit, pleased to meet you." He has large, amber eyes and sharp features, a small nose and pointed chin.
"It's not smart to build magic doorways and then scream at what comes through." He smiles, exposing small, sharp teeth.
Date: Sat Nov 7, 1998 12:15:07 From: FireOpal To: Matioki Repl: 2132380, Matioki; 2132452, just john
<<Mistletoe>>
The fiery-haired druid almost gapes at Jenredykk, the hawk on her shoulder is digging his talons into the padding almost painfully at this unusual being's closeness. Before responding to the green guy, she calms the hawk down then addresses the goblin, "Well, I didn't scream, but you are startling. Can't say as I've ever seen someone like you before, and I've even seen supposedly mythical gryphons! I'm Mistletoe, and the hawk is Ashfelor. Nice to meet you...." <I hope.> is the unspoken part. In an amusing way, she almost looks like this goblin, being dressed all in varying shades of green leather and with her elvish features, except for her bright hair. "I suppose you've come to join the Tournament? You can register there, " the woman gestures to Brandee busily entering contestants at the table near them.
If Jenredykk speaks his "native" tongue, she will be surprised that she can understand him (she hasn't really met a goblin before, her father, an intrepid elven ranger, had taught her the language...)
Date: Mon Nov 9, 1998 03:50:00 From: Matioki To: FireOpal Repl: 2132915, FireOpal
"Okay, so I exaggerated a bit, I've still have to get used to this place," he replies and tugs at his ear - long and pointed, another similarity with the elvish physiognomy.
"So there are no goblins around ? That's a pity. About the tournament, well, I'll just see how deadly it turns out to be before I make up my mind." He glances down and back at Mistletoe. "You are from this world, right ? What happened to the earth ?"
Date: Mon Nov 9, 1998 09:03:05 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2132843, Michael Durant
He steps in and aims his hammer to the fellows knee *slow him down first*(There go centuries of dwarven public relations, trying to fight the "Guard your knees, boys, here comes a dwarf fighter!" taunts.)
The blow lands solidly on Remonstrance's right knee with a cracking sound.
"Yeeeeargh!" the big fellow acknowledges. "Why you ..."
His leg gives way. His swing is diverted by his stumble, but his quarterstaff does ding Tufin's right shoulder for two points.
The big human backs up, hoping to lean on the ropes for a while.
Date: Mon Nov 9, 1998 09:03:06 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2132625, Matioki; 2132914, FireOpal[A note of clarification: Jenredykk is a GURPS goblin. Anybody who has seen an AD&D goblin will know that Jenredykk is a different kind of being altogether. If there is a GURPS goblin language, I guess it can be the AD&D goblin tongue, but that's just one of those coincidences like the coincidence that everybody understands "Common."]
[I mention this because when it comes to spells specific to goblins, Jenredykk may be immune. He's not officially a monster.]
[Now back to the game:]
Along with Agnar comes a fellow with a dingy looking kilt, a nifty looking club and nothing else. Brandee says to him, "Oh, there you are, Phineas! Mistletoe, here, is scheduled to fight you in a few minutes."
Date: Mon Nov 9, 1998 16:22:09 From: Matioki To: just john Repl: 2133022, just john
He's not officially a monster.OOC: Now just what do you want to imply with that ? ;)
<Jenredykk>
He turns around and, seeing Phineas, starts to chuckle. "Now that's a funny outfit. Are you a barbarian, sir ?" The goblin looks at Mistletoe. "You'll fight him ? Oh, I'll have to watch that !"
Date: Mon Nov 9, 1998 21:31:03 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2133023, just john
His adversary's lamentations don't even register. *well he can be hurt, that's something* he thinks just as he is reminded that he can also be too slow or cocky.
Unwilling to allow the big fellow time to regroup, Tufin presses his (seeming?) advantage, *but not too cocky, my boy* He can almost hear his old instructor drilling him as he follows the big man's retreat.
*the ropes limit his movement, use that to advantage* he thinks as he warily closes to within fighting distance.
MikeD
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 00:16:12 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2133018, Nivek
Turning to check out her upcoming opponent, the slight elvish woman acknowledges him cautiously. She's obviously out-weighed in this match up.
With a grim smile, she says to her friend Nivek, "Wish me luck?"
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 00:16:13 From: FireOpal To: Matioki Repl: 2133115, Matioki
Taking a moment to think about her answer, she replies carefully, "Well... I *think* I'm still on the world I started my Grand Adventure from, but I can't really be sure. We've gone through some really, really, strange places... The earth? You mean the ground here? Someone told me something about a great Shattering that tore up the place. Must have been some heavy magic involved if this glass desert was a byproduct!" She shakes her head, which makes her 2 red braids flip around a little. "The Tourney isn't supposed to be deadly, they have healers standing by...." The druid doesn't sound as sure as before.
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 09:34:11 From: Nivek To: FireOpal Repl: 2133408, FireOpal
He's not quite sure why she would even want to fight in this strange place, but in a spur of the moment thing, he leans close to her and gives her a quick kiss on the cheek. "Good luck to you, I'll be watching. Please be careful."
His brashness causes him to blush, now he just hopes he doesn't get slapped for it.
- Nivek
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 10:06:03 From: just john To: Matioki Repl: 2134105, Matioki; 2136737, Spydah!
"Now that's a funny outfit. Are you a barbarian, sir ?"Phineas smiles brightly, "No, but thank you. I do strive for authenticity."
He holds forth a hand to shake. "Actually, I'm professor of Applied Antiquities at Treblin University."
He shakes hands with Mistletoe, too. "Hi, there. Phineas Rafferty, at your service. I hear we're going at it in a couple of minutes. May the best being prevail, and all that."
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 10:06:04 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2133354, Michael DurantHis back leaning against the ropes, the large human tries a low blow by bringing up the bottom end of the quarterstaff. It misses completely.
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 15:24:06 From: Matioki To: FireOpal Repl: 2133409, FireOpal
His eyes go wide and he looks around, circling and jumping up a bit, trying to glimpse the horizon. "That's why the call it Flashpan - the whole desert is made of glass ?! Oh, if I could only bring it all home, I'd be rich beyond my dreams !" He stops and thinks for a moment. "Well, close enough to my dreams for comfort anyway."
Having calmed down, he watches the Tournament again. "I don't know, fighting only to fight a dragon at the end ? There must be something more to it," he warily remarks to Mistletoe.
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 21:15:02 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2134811, just john
Tufin follows in behind the miss placed blow and aims for the solar plexus, hoping to knock the wind from the big fellow.
MikeD
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 22:16:04 From: FireOpal To: Nivek
Actually quite charmed by Nivek's unexpected kiss, she bestows a radiant smile upon him. "Thanks, Nivek. Your wishes mean a lot to me." She feels she knows him well enough by now to understand his sincere intention. Giving herself a once over, tugging at her leather, limbering up a little, checking her staff balance, etc. she whiles away the minutes until her bout.
Date: Tue Nov 10, 1998 22:16:04 From: FireOpal To: Matioki Repl: 2138799, just john
"Yes, the dragon part has me a bit worried actually, but I don't expect to be fighting it anyway. Probably one of those heavily armed and armored sorts will do that.... I'm just here for the martial practice, and, of course, to see if there something new to learn! " She grins almost ferally - knowledge is one of her passions. After all, that's why she's out here in this desolate, dry, dusty, hot and generally uncomfortable desert place.
Date: Thu Nov 12, 1998 06:52:14 From: Matioki To: just john Repl: 2138800, just john
He eagerly shakes the professor's hand. "Applied Antics ? Oh, now I'm really looking forward to the fight."
Date: Fri Nov 13, 1998 12:40:09 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2135190, Michael Durant
Tufin follows in behind the miss placed blow and aims for the solar plexus, hoping to knock the wind from the big fellow.It connects, but the big guy's armor seems to absorb most of the blow.
Now he's muttering something ...
Date: Sat Nov 14, 1998 00:06:05 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2136958, just john
as the big guy begins to mutter, Tufin can only spare time for an *oh oh* before he is straining to bring his hammer back around at his head ... hopefully to interrupt the possible spell.
MikeD
Date: Mon Nov 16, 1998 01:54:05 From: Spydah! To: just john Repl: 2141831, just john
The gnome decides the green guy is best left alone, especially after Perry gets a good look at his teeth. While Nivek, Mistletoe, the Barbarian looking guy and Jenredykk talk amongst themselves, Perry looks around for anyone with a lot of interesting looking pouches.
-S
Date: Mon Nov 16, 1998 14:05:10 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2137421, Michael DurantBesides leaning against the ropes to favor his knee, Tufin's opponent is slouching a bit as he tries to fire off a spell.
before he is straining to bring his hammer back around at his head ... hopefully to interrupt the possible spell.Best way to do that is to go for the mouth, and Tufin's positioned well for that. The hammer catches Remonstrance's cheek guard with a WHACK and a spray of sweat and blood (and was that a tooth?) go flying.
The big guy spins around and almost falls, but he drapes an arm over the top rope and scrambles with his quarterstaff to try to right himself.
From the stands, his fellow Alnmoor clansperson, Vendetta, offers some down home encouragement, Vergaantz-style.
"GET UP YOU PATHETIC SLACKER, OR WE'LL MAKE YOU WALK HOME!"
Date: Mon Nov 16, 1998 22:08:02 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2138606, just john
If he is in position, Tufin will attempt to knock the staff out from under the big fellow. If he can manage that ... and he hits the ground, he will pause long enough to ask, "Do you yield Sir?"
Other wise he will follow up his first stroke with a second to the head "Moradin guide my hand" but he hopes only to render the man unconscious.
MikeD
Date: Wed Nov 18, 1998 13:22:07 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2138989, Michael Durant
he will pause long enough to ask, "Do you yield Sir?"The big guy mutters, "I bone blare ..."
Then, realizing his mouth isn't working quite properly, he repeats himself more carefully: "I don't dare. She won' leb me."
Other wise he will follow up his first stroke with a second to the head "Moradin guide my hand" but he hopes only to render the man unconscious.WHOMP.
It works like a charm. Alnmoor sinks to the canvas, and the ref counts him out.
"... nine, ten! Your winnerrrrrrr! Tufin, cleric of Moradin!" He holds up the dwarf's hand as someone rolls into the ring to attend to the vanquished human with a potion.
Date: Wed Nov 18, 1998 18:45:12 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2139228, Wrecan
"By the great glory of my god, I am victorious. I am here to register for tomorrow's bout and I will continue until this city has been convinced to renounce their sinful ways!"Brandee hmmmphs. "Well, good thing you've got those jewels, because it'll be a long stay."
She looks over at the near fighting ring.
"Hmmm. Speaking of your next bout, how'd you like to go up against him," she points at Tufin (wearing a breast plate and chain armor), who's getting his hand raised in victory over a large human, "In a half hour?"
Date: Wed Nov 18, 1998 18:45:12 From: just john To: FireOpal
I'm just here for the martial practice, and, of course, to see if there something new to learn!"That's the spirit!" agrees Phineas.
Despite his scruffy attire, or lack of it, on closer inspection he's not a large human. He's of perhaps middle age, pale and the bridge of his nose has an odd pair of dents, one to each side.
Date: Wed Nov 18, 1998 18:45:12 From: just john To: Matioki Repl: 2139128, Matioki
"Applied Antics ? Oh, now I'm really looking forward to the fight."Phineas blinks, then replies.
"No, 'antiquities.' In other words, when our archeologists find an old and obviously magical item like this shillelagh, it's my job to find a suitable venue in which to use it and to study it. I also make garb appropriate for a user of such an artifact."
"So this tournament gives me a wonderful chance, plus the assurances that I won't be doing any lasting damage to this charming young woman," meaning Mistletoe.
"It appears I'm a tad underdressed for this place's norms, but it seems a tolerant and diverse crowd, don't you think?"
Date: Wed Nov 18, 1998 22:46:14 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2139495, just john
As his opponent sinks to the canvas Tufin adds an "I'm sorry then." and wonders as who would be so misguided as to force the fellow to continue on when he was obviously not going to win.
He lets the referee raise his hand, but feels a bit embarrassed. This is not how he was taught. "Will he be OK? I could take a look and maybe help." [assuming the ref assures him that his opponent will be well cared for ...] He follows up that reassurance with one more question, "What now?"
MikeD
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 06:44:00 From: Matioki To: just john Repl: 2147983, just john
"It's an ancient magical staff ?" His eyes go wide and light up. "What does it do ? Can I take a closer look ? How does it work ?"
>"It appears I'm a tad underdressed for this place's norms, but it seems a tolerant and diverse crowd, don't you think?"
"You're certainly dressed more appropriate to this climate than I am," he complains, adjusting his brown cloak.
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 12:21:04 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2139468, just john
"A half-hour?! A did handily beat my opponent, but I'd still like a night to relax before bouts. Nobody told me the challenges were so frequent."
If he's available tomorrow, I'd be more than happy to challenge him.
"This town is full of nuts," he mutters, with no hint of irony.
-Mark
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 19:48:06 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2139474, Wrecan"Ooo-kaaay," says Brandee, taking four or five syllables to do so. "We can work it that way, too. There's fights to watch and stuff to buy and ... well, I think the Nomads don't use a LOT of metal ... you might visit them ... And those jewels paid up your restaurant and bar tab well into next winter."
She gives him a sunny have-a-nice-day smile, obviously not having done the mental math of what Agnar plus alcohol might equal.
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 19:57:04 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2139561, Michael Durant
"I only wanted to pay for my room and board for--- ahhh, nevermind."
Agnar leaves Brandee and approaches Tufin.
"Sir, I have been told that we will be battling tomorrow morning. I will withdraw from the bout and seek a new challenger if you will forever renounce all metal, in accordance with my god's teachings."
The dwarven priest Agnar's voice is humble and peaceful and earnest.
-Mark
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 20:34:05 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2139557, Michael Durant
"What now?""Well, you could check with Brandee, when you're up for another bout," says the ref.
Over at the Registration Desk, besides the people he's already met, there's a green fellow ...
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 22:20:08 From: Michael Durant To: just john
He nods his thanks to the referee for the information and heads back over to the registration desk. As he nears he stops short as he catches sight of the green fellow, then continues on, keeping a wary eye on him.
He waits for his turn at the counter, "Pardon Miss Brandee, but they said you might be able to tell me about my next 'chance for glory' " he winks to punctuate his less than serious intent.
MikeD
Date: Thu Nov 19, 1998 22:33:10 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2139740, Wrecan
The Dwarf smiles patiently as the strange fellow, frowning slightly for a moment at his strange request, "Give up the gifts the He gave us? Nay, I think not. The Soul Forger, and if it be His will, through me and with His gifts, will attempt to show you the error of assuming that all should follow your path. It is not for everyone. Perhaps after our bout you would like to discuss the finer points of our respective beliefs, preferably over a stout ale or two." He removes his gauntlet and offers him his (bare) hand.
MikeD
Date: Fri Nov 20, 1998 09:58:08 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2139990, Michael Durant
Agnar is also a dwarf, with wild, unkempt hair and even wilder eyes. He wears animal skins roughly stitched together and wields a club and a wooden shield. He has a few leather pouches ate his belt (which is fastened in a knot rather than a buckle).
Agnar shakes the man's hand. Since, he is talking to a fellow dwarf, he shifts into speaking Dwarven.
"Those are not gifts, they are temptations and products of evil. I would be happy to discuss my god's teachings after our battle. Even now, if you like. Our battle is not until tomorrow."
-Mark
Date: Fri Nov 20, 1998 22:13:13 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2140160, Wrecan
Following Agnar's lead Tufin also switches tongues. "For you I am sure that your gifts and lore are appropriate. But for me," he thumps the icon on his breast plate, "His way is the right way. As it happens, there is a shrine to Moradin not far from here. I'd be happy to show it to you. It is one of the reasons I came out this way. But I do not think this is the time or place for such discussions. Perhaps when the contests are over. I am always interested to learn of other faiths."
Switching gears and tongues back to common since the important discussion was over, in his mind at least, Tufin returns to the immediate issue. "But I thought the next bout was yet today. The official seemed to think so anyway. At any rate, I should check in."
MikeD
Date: Sat Nov 21, 1998 10:59:11 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2140422, Michael Durant
Agnar joins Tufin as he rejoins Brandee at the registration desk.
"Two fights in a day? I like a little moderation is in order. By the way, what's the point of this whole contest anyway? What's the grand prize?"
-Mark
Date: Sat Nov 21, 1998 20:23:14 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2140593, Wrecan
"As I understand it, the winners get to confront a dragon in it's lair or some such. I doubt that I will be involved in such an endeavor, but thought to avail myself of the chance to test myself before I travel out to Moradin's Shrine for some soul searching."
MikeD
Date: Sun Nov 22, 1998 09:48:13 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2140676, Michael Durant
"Fight a dragon? Hmmmph. Metal-hoarding beasts. So how did that work? Was the dragon last years' champion?"
Agnar's ears prick up when Tufin mentions soul-searching.
"Having a crisis of faith, sir?"
-Mark
Date: Sun Nov 22, 1998 12:00:07 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2141178, Wrecan
"I am sure I don't know more than I have said about the dragon. I suspect one of the locals would know more."
He laughs with great merriment, "Crisis of faith?" he chortles one more time before regaining his composure, "Sorry, no offense intended. But that was just too good. No, sorry to disappoint. The soul searching is in regards to the His temple here. There is a debate as to what should be done with it. Perhaps a bit of history is in order, but that is dry work. Let us finish here and return to the inn where I am housed. Their Dwarven Stout is better than fair!"
MikeD
Date: Mon Nov 23, 1998 09:50:01 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2141837, Michael Durant
Agnar was about to protest that he had a tab here, but realize it might be considered rude...
"Um.. okay."
Agnar followed Tufin to his inn. It would be good to hear how Moradin organizes his church. It would give Agnar tips on how to organize his god's church.
"How long have you been in Hotdamm?"
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 23, 1998 21:42:13 From: just john To: Spydah! Repl: 2147024, Spydah!
Perry looks around for anyone with a lot of interesting looking pouches.There are townspeople, nomads, contestants and tourists. Here's one group that might satisfy:
There's a pair of rich-looking elderly dwarves, in cloth finery. The man has the same holy sign that Tufin's wearing, and the woman has matching earrings. They each have short swords in matching scabbards, but perhaps that's ceremonial. They had been on the stand among the town elders when Horzte made his opening speech.
They're standing just past the first aid tent, chatting with a young couple of humans.
(Somebody Perry's height might notice that the two dwarves each have two pouches hanging from their belts and that the humans each have buttoned belt packs at their sides.)
The humans aren't dressed like nomads, so maybe they're townspeople.
(There are other, less wealthy-looking people about, too, if Perry wants to keep looking.)
Date: Mon Nov 23, 1998 22:02:13 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2142893, Wrecan
"Just arrived here yesterday. You?"
MikeD
Date: Wed Nov 25, 1998 12:26:08 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2143440, Michael Durant
"This morning. I've never been in a human city before."
-Mark
Date: Wed Nov 25, 1998 23:13:05 From: Michael Durant To: Wrecan Repl: 2145232, Wrecan; 2145607, just john
He smiles knowingly, "yes it is a bit disconcerting, isn't is, what with the different sized areas and all." He begins leading the way to Pasha's. "Say, have you secured lodgings yet? The place I am staying is not bad."
MikeD
Date: Sun Nov 29, 1998 19:50:03 From: Wrecan To: Michael Durant Repl: 2145580, just john
"Yeah, I'm paid up for a week, I think," says Agnar.
"So, why does your worship of Moradin prevent you from forsaking all metal?"
His tone is simply curious, not judgmental.
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 14:38:06 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2145587, Wrecan
"So, why does your worship of Moradin prevent you from forsaking all metal?"Sitting behind the desk, Brandee overhears this and mutters, "Not from around here, is he?"
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 14:48:01 From: Wrecan To: just john Repl: 2145604, just john<<Sitting behind the desk, Brandee overhears this and mutters, "Not from around here, is he?">>
ooc: What is she, telepathic?! Agnar and Tufin went to Tufin's inn, which, I presumed from the fact that we had to leave Agnar's inn to get there, is not Agnar's inn. <g>
ooc2: And if she is telepathic, why is she eavesdropping on Tufin and Agnar's conversation? What, do the humans feel threatened by two dwarves speaking together? Are we gettin' too uppity for you big folk? <g>
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 15:07:05 From: just john To: Wrecan Repl: 2145706, Wrecan; 2145896, Michael Durant[>> Agnar and Tufin went to Tufin's inn ]
[Well, Tufin said "Let us finish here and return to the inn where I am housed." (2140676), and Brandee's shuffling some paperwork to get that first bit done. Your "Agnar followed Tufin to his inn." (2141178) kicks in once she's juggled the schedules. She's very overworked, especially considering her education is in cosmetology. But she thought she might find some cute guys if she took this registration gig. Never again, she'll tell you, if given even half a chance.]
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 15:18:14 From: just john To: Michael Durant Repl: 2145899, Michael Durant
He begins leading the way to Penshah's"Hey, waitiammit," wails Brandee. "You mean you're not gonna fight again today? Oh darnit."
She shuffles some papers and makes a few crossings-out, her brow beginning to break a sweat and her tongue out the side of her mouth. She heaves a sigh and the ordeal is over.
"Okay, go have fun on the town, but be back here bright and early tomorrow, okay? And you guys will each have up to three matches."
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 15:23:05 From: just john To: All Repl: 2148013, Michael DurantIt's nearly noon (registration desks can really eat up the time, eh?) so Tufin and Agnar have the option of being the day's first customers at the dwarf side of Penshah's.
Sammi and one of the staff are taking the chairs down from off the tables when they get there.
(Or they can go to the other public room, the white one overlooking the oasis itself.)
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 17:17:14 From: Wrecan To: just johnAhh. Well, okay then. <g>
-Mark
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 21:38:11 From: Michael Durant To: just john[[ ooc: well have her join us once she is done with work. Tufin'd happily exchange tales over a tankard or three! ]]
MikeD
Date: Mon Nov 30, 1998 21:38:12 From: Michael Durant To: just john
At the mention of three matches tomorrow, Tufin pauses and turns to Agnar. "Are you sure you wouldn't rather get our match out of the way today? The idea of 3 matches tomorrow is not that appealing to me."
MikeD
Date: Wed Dec 2, 1998 14:15:10 From: Spydah! To: just john
The gnome notices the rich dwarves and their heavy pouches, but then remembers that they had been on the stand among the town elders when Horzte made his speech and decides they must be powerful.
Perry decides on another tactic and walks over to the "other worlds" portal looking for the absence or presence of an official looking "greeter".
-S
Date: Thu Dec 3, 1998 21:21:14 From: just john To: Matioki
"It's an ancient magical staff ?" His eyes go wide and light up. "What does it do ? Can I take a closer look ? How does it work ?"The man in the kilt says, "Oh, it's more a club kind of weapon, or so it tells me. And, well, it doesn't like others to handles it."
His eyes go side to side and his face gets a bit red, as if even he can't believe how crazy that sounded.
But in a moment, his cheerful demeanor returns.
"You're certainly dressed more appropriate to this climate than I am," he complains, adjusting his brown cloak."Oh, it could be worse. I imagine the competitors in full armor are really going to be suffering in the direct sunlight," Phineas notes.
"But it's probably really hot in the summer."
Then it's time for his match with Mistletoe.
Date: Thu Dec 3, 1998 21:21:14 From: just john To: Spydah! Repl: 2150341, Spydah!Wisely avoiding the High Priest's party, Perry steps over to the Portal to/from Other Worlds. (Don't be too impressed; it's rented.)
As Perry suspected, there's no official greeter right at the Portal. Agnar's and Jenredykk's experiences were typical: They stepped through and looked around until somebody noticed them.
So if things continue as they have so far, Perry can greet the next people through if he wants to.
(Horrible security breach, this -- you'd think these people had never run a tournament before.)
[So Perry can hang out here for a few minutes while off-camera a very amused Dungeon Master builds a "Who's Next Through the Portal" table to roll on.]
Date: Thu Dec 3, 1998 21:21:14 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2148096, FireOpalThe fighting ring is at the far end of the grounds. On the way there, Phineas is chatty.
"You know, this is a first for me. I mean, I've trained on machines and had some individual instruction, but most of what I know is through books."
You two step into the ring and he keeps talking as he starts doing stretching exercises.
"I mean, it must be just another day to you, going forth and meeting the challenge of huge beasts and avatars of dark gods and such."
The ref steps in, confers with Mistletoe about where Ashfelor should sit, and then is about ready to go. He looks annoyed for a moment and waves to somebody near the first aid station. That person goes inside, and a man in robes comes jogging out.
"Can't start without the healer on hand," the ref explains apologetically.
"Let's hope we don't need one," says Phineas.
Turning back to Mistletoe, Phineas says, "I only hope I don't embarrass myself."
Date: Thu Dec 3, 1998 22:13:03 From: Michael Durant To: just john Repl: 2150735, just john
Tufin walks in and waves to Sammi, "Is it too early to get a drink? I was telling my new friend here," he indicates Agnar, "how good the Dwarven Ale is here."
MikeD
Date: Fri Dec 4, 1998 00:07:01 From: FireOpal To: just john Repl: 2148219, Nivek; 2150714, just john
Doing a few exercises with her staff, she huffs an agreement about the healer. "I'm not really much of a fighter, just as necessary. Maybe we'll each learn new moves from the other." The elfin woman grins, good-naturedly.
She stands ready, relaxed yet poised to begin, staff held two-handed diagonal to her body.
Date: Fri Dec 4, 1998 09:50:14 From: Nivek To: FireOpal Repl: 2149440, Matioki
The ranger watches the two enter the ring, his gaze focusing primarily on this woman he has started to care so much about. He didn't like this fighting for fun stuff, not at all. But he certainly wasn't the type of person to tell anyone else what they should or shouldn't do. He only hoped she didn't get hurt. He also hoped that he would be able to restrain himself if she did.
- Nivek
Date: Sun Dec 6, 1998 10:08:10 From: Matioki To: Nivek
He nudged the gnome. "Hey, do you know where we can bet on the fights ? Got to get something out of this if I don't partake.
What about Mistletoe, is she a tough fighter ? Do you think I should place some coins on her ?"
Date: Mon Dec 7, 1998 14:23:12 From: Spydah! To: just john Repl: 2150716, just john
The gnome stands facing the portal. He adjusts his oversized hat to cover the smile he can't seem to control as he thinks about brilliant his plan is. While he mentally compliments himself for being such a smart little gnome, he stands as straight as possible, clears his throat and tries to look as official as he can.
Perry takes out one of his many maps and his quill pen and waits for someone to pass through the portal.
-S
Date: Mon Dec 7, 1998 21:49:04 From: just john To: FireOpal Repl: 2150842, FireOpal; 2150949, NivekSoon everybody's in place and the bout between Mistletoe and Phineas is ready to commence.
"All right, say your prayers and come out fighting when the bell rings," says the referee.
On his side of the ring, the scraggly-looking Phineas kneels on one knee and holds his club up in front of his face. He closes his eyes and bows his head so his forehead touches the shillelagh.
Eyes still closed, he straightens up. Is he taller now, or is this just a matter of improved posture?
Now he opens his eyes. Some of the louder people in the crowd shut up. Some even try to back away from the ring.
The eyes show that Phineas Rafferty, professor of antiquities, has gone away. Something very nasty indeed has taken his place. A low growl escapes from his mouth.
The bell rings.
Date: Mon Dec 7, 1998 21:49:04 From: just john To: Spydah! Repl: 2153267, Spydah!
Perry takes out one of his many maps and his quill pen and waits for someone to pass through the portal.It's a human couple, man and woman.
He's maybe five feet tall and dressed daintily. His black leather shoes have square buckles. From there to his knees are grey stockings. At his knees, purple corduroy takes over. His puffy pants and puffy jacket are made of the stuff. Under the jacket is a fluffy whi