Quests 101

A Guide on How to

Get Involved in Storylines

 

The log below is from 5/14/98 and took place a little way into the Castle Anwyn storyline. This is not a log full of excitement, humor, or significant GM interactions which move the plot forward. What this is, is pieces of my log of that night that I think represents what being involved in Quests is all about in GS terms. If you don't want to read through the entire thing you will probably find that skipping to the final conversation in the castle bower will be the more interesting part as various people share their theories and provide bits of history and information.

So many people on the message boards talk about how it's always only certain people involved in storylines, how GM's never try to involve unknown or low level characters, how some characters always hog the limelight, how difficult it is to get involved in quests if you don't know what's going on, etc. etc. Well you know what? Most of that isn't true. Sure there are exceptions and those complaints are on rare occasions accurate. But exceptions aren't helpful and they don't support an argument.

Why am I bringing all that up? Because I think these log snippets from a typical quest night in GS are an excellent example of what it actually takes to get involved in a storyline. This isn't exciting reading for the most part, but I think if you at least skim through it will serve as a Quests 101 Primer for those who have never involved themselves and want to know how to do that and what it takes. Or at least prove that being involved isn't all glamour, action, and excitement. (grin)

The number one thing people need to realize if that you want to be involved more than just hearing occasional comments on the amulet or in TSC and seeing an occasional invasion, you have to be prepared to be bored. That's right! Quests are actually boring at least some of the time! At least in terms of actual quest happenings. The roleplay along the way with other players is hopefully at least somewhat entertaining or intriguing. After all, we are here to entertain ourselves for the most part, GM interaction is icing on the cake.

Another thing that these log snippets will point out is that even those who are working to involve themselves often don't know what's going on either, or are totally chasing red herrings and misunderstanding what's going on. You'll notice as you read through that many different people at various points have different pieces of information that they tell others. Quests usually succeed through this sharing of information. It's rare that any one player, or small group of players, knows everything.

According to posts on the boards, a lot of players feel that information is hoarded among some "in group", and that this prevents them from being involved as much as they'd like to be. Hopefully these log snippets will show that the hoarded information idea is mostly a myth and that in reality, because different players are around for different events, a lot of those participating simply don't know and are as desperate to find out as you are.

For some context, the only time I had a "central role" in any kind of storyline was in a very short one that took place over 4-5 days, so was very small scale. In all other storylines in which I've involved myself I've always had anywhere from a supporting cast role, to having a bit part, to being an extra. Even being an extra can be fun though, so don't knock it! You don't have to take center stage to have fun and for your character to feel as if they were involved in big world events. And in the case of storylines you never know when your role as an extra will suddenly expand to become a bit part or supporting role because you get to interact in some meaningful way with an NPC or other characters more centrally involved.

Here are my tips for being involved in a storyline quest:

1. Find out from the boards, the amulet, or town gossip who has information or who was present for a storyline event and seek them out to pump them for information. However, pick your time wisely. If they seem busy don't get in a snit and tell everyone they're a snob because they wouldn't deign to talk to you. True, some people really are snobs. However, most of those involved in storylines are happy to share the experience, but not if they're already engaged in some other activity or a conversation that is important to them. To put it bluntly, you're the one being an ass if you expect other people to drop everything and pay attention to you at the exact moment you want it.

2. Number two is related to number one. Do not show up where a GM interaction regarding the storyline is going on and start asking of various people there, either out loud or in whispers, what's going on. Yes, of course you want to know what's going on so you can participate. But the people who are already there are desperately wanting to participate also. When you pester them for information and force their attention to you it means they miss part of what's going on and that's extremely frustrating for them. Wait until after the NPC interaction has concluded and then participate in discussions with other characters and ask to be filled in on what you missed.

3. If you arrive at a location after an NPC interaction has begun, just be quiet for a bit and watch what is going on. Sometimes you'll know enough about the storyline to catch on real fast and other times you might be confused the entire time! That's okay, you won't be the only one. But at least you'll be ahead of people who don't witness the event. Once you have at least a limited grasp of what is going on, then you can feel free to start participating in whatever way is appropriate for your character.

4. Be prepared to immediately drop whatever you are doing and run to wherever something is happening. If you are the type of player who gets antsy if their character's mind is clear for more than 5 minutes then quests likely aren't for you, beyond fighting in invasions. If you want to be truly involved then you need to be willing to spend hours in the game doing essentially nothing but gabbing with others and running around with groups of people who often have no idea what they're doing.

5. Always be alert! It's truly amazing what an average player will overlook even when it's right in front of their nose. If you see any unusual messaging, a player who appears to have no parentheses for their ACT commands, or witness any character asking somewhat odd questions, pay attention! It could be nothing. On the other hand it could be a GM trying to get you involved in an event and if you aren't alert and respond then you can hardly blame the GM. My character has been in conversations with GM NPC's before and witnessed other players present or passing by remain totally ignorant to the fact something unusual is going on, despite all the clues available.

6. Try to be where the action is. This is the "right time and right place" rule. If there are any "hot spots" where events have been taking place during the storyline, hang out there. Yeah, we're back to that boring thing again. It can be very boring to just sit around hoping something will happen. But if you don't do that you are guaranteed to miss chances to participate. Sometimes locations aren't as important as the people involved. In those cases, find a reason for your character to hang out where those people are. While I mentioned all this can be boring, it can also provide a wonderful opportunity for your character to make new friends and enemies during lulls in the storyline. That's always a plus!

7. Last of all, understand that being involved in a storyline, even on the edges of it, takes time and effort. When players complain that it's always the same characters involved in events (which is only somewhat true, the "same people" tend to change from year to year) it's because those players are the ones willing to put in the time and work it takes doing all the above. If you aren't willing to do that, or are unable to do that because of RL time conflicts, you have to accept that your involvement will be minimal. It's the nature of the beast.

 

 

5/14/98 - Wehnimer's Landing

This is extremely heavily edited down to relatively short snips from a very long log. What you don't see here is the exhausting hours of wandering around looking for clues, information, and GM-run activity. We didn't find any of those, aside from the quakes and occasional creature. But many quest nights are just like that and you have to be prepared and willing to endure them if you want to be fully involved.

 

I logged in just in time to see this:

* Yarx just bit the dust!

> * Darcmystic just bit the dust!

> >go stairout
[Hearthstone, Foyer]
Dark flagstone floors extend in a gleaming river of darkness beneath thick, handwoven crimson rugs in this spacious foyer. To the north, banners of purple, blue, green, and yellow flutter from a balcony railing some fifty feet overhead. A granite arch sweeps along the length of the western wall, and a magnificent fieldstone staircase curves upward to the east. You also see some full leather, an elegant beige tunic, some light leather, a stein of rich dwarven ale, a veniom-worked carved modwir wastebasket and an ancient felwood credenza with some stuff on it.
Also in the room: Asthalan, Lord Equivocate, Myleia who is kneeling
Obvious exits: out.

> [Hearthstone, Front Porch]
Airy and open, the porch is enclosed by smooth, freshly painted white modwir up to a height of about four feet. As you ponder the sky-blue color of the ceiling and a lacework of deep green ivy that crisscrosses the open space between posts, the hubbub of the world beyond quickly fades away. Rocking chairs of various sizes are an inviting sight, and an elegant marble arch provides a tantalizing view of the splendors inside the old manor. You also see a brown zircon, an enruned gold chest, the porch steps, a doorman and an elegant green marble arch.
Also here: Krotos, Katrond who is seated, Lord Eahlstan who is seated
Obvious paths: none.

>You gesture into the air.
Your vision begins to become murky and clouded. You have a sensation of rapidly passing distance. Eventually your sight begins to clear and a vision of Yarx's surroundings fills your mind...

[Anwyn Castle Yard]
Wisps of cold fog drift across the yard in an eerie dance. A sparse, wiry turf braves the frigid climes, covering the expansive area between the outer curtain wall and the castle itself. Near the wall, stones lie jumbled on the ground, dislodged from the battlements above by time, wind and weather. You also see a sorcery acolyte, a moaning spirit, a plain brass coffer and an old stable to the south, half-fallen into ruin.
Also here: the body of Lord Darcmystic who is lying down, the body of Lord Yarx who is lying down, Lord Razcor
Obvious paths: east, west, northeast, southeast.

 

 

cast yarx
You gesture into the air. A silvery fog envelopes you. You feel a sudden lurching motion, and as the fog dissipates you see...

[Anwyn Castle Yard]
Wisps of cold fog drift across the yard in an eerie dance. A sparse, wiry turf braves the frigid climes, covering the expansive area between the outer curtain wall and the castle itself. Near the wall, stones lie jumbled on the ground, dislodged from the battlements above by time, wind and weather. You also see a greenwing hornet, a plain brass coffer and an old stable to the south, half-fallen into ruin.
Also here: the body of Lord Michaellangello who is lying down, the body of Lord Darcmystic who is lying down, the body of Lord Yarx who is lying down, the body of Lord Razcor who is lying down
Obvious paths: east, west, northeast, southeast.

Lord Truekillr's group just arrived.

>The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!
Roundtime: 8 seconds.
Truekillr falls to the ground!
Raivella falls to the ground!
Kythe falls to the ground!

PR>You hear the ghostly voice of Yarx ask, "Where are the witches?"

PR>You hear the ghostly voice of Razcor ask, "they normaly that tuff?"

R>Raivella says, "bah."

R>You hear the ghostly voice of Darcmystic say, "The Vvrael are back"

R>Truekillr frowns.

R>You hear the ghostly voice of Yarx say, "Hey Danay..."

You ask, "True are you fogging?"

I was only level 34 at this time so hadn't learned 130 yet.

>You hear the ghostly voice of Darcmystic say, "we were wrong to think the veil was sealed"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "No"

>You say, "ah"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "the Rift is sealed, but there are some left."

>There is a twinkle in a white owl's eyes.

You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "Wait for that owl"

>The white owl begins to watch the goings on carefully.

>You hear the ghostly voice of Darcmystic ask, "some?"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "Perhaps it is Lumnis"

You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "go east Ill kill her."

>Truekillr comes out of hiding.

>Truekillr gestures.
An invisible force guides Truekillr.

You ask, "Are you all kept?"

>Kythe says, "Okay..east we go."

>You hear the ghostly voice of Darcmystic say, "no"

>You hear the ghostly voice of Yarx say, "I'm not.."

You hear the ghostly voice of Razcor say, "nope"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "go"

A sorcery acolyte just wandered out of an old stable to the south, half-fallen into ruin.

>You gesture at Darcmystic.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Darcmystic, then fades into the body.
You have overextended yourself!
You feel yourself going into shock!

Didn't notice this...

>Truekillr leaps from hiding to attack!
Truekillr swings a gleaming pure white iorake falchion at a sorcery acolyte!
AS: +432 vs DS: +361 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +23 = +129
... and hits for 53 points of damage!
Horrible slash to the sorcery acolyte's head!
Brain matter goes flying! Looks like it never felt a thing.
The sorcery acolyte crumples to the ground motionless.

>Kythe says, "Ooff."

Truekillr says, "got it"

>Raivella applauds.

>You gesture at Yarx.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Yarx, then fades into the body.
You have overextended yourself!
You're in heavy shock!

Smooth move! I had spelled up before I fogged and forgot I was out of mana. This sort of thing is also why clerics should carry an LK flask with them at all times. You never know when you'll need backup to your spells.

Raivella grins.

>Kythe says, "So I see."

>Truekillr searches a sorcery acolyte.
Black tendrils of anti-mana seep from the corpse of the sorcery acolyte consuming it.

>Raivella says, "excellent."

>You hear the ghostly voice of Michaellangello say, "I need LK please"

>Suddenly a bolt of energy erupts out of nothing and envelopes the owl!

>Lady Shadowkatt just arrived.

>You remove a forest green flask from inside your grey spidersilk sack.

>You hear the voice of Truekillr exclaim, "Gah!"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr exclaim, "The owl!"

>look
[Anwyn Castle Yard]
Wisps of cold fog drift across the yard in an eerie dance. A sparse, wiry turf braves the frigid climes, covering the expansive area between the outer curtain wall and the castle itself. Near the wall, stones lie jumbled on the ground, dislodged from the battlements above by time, wind and weather. You also see the Shadowkatt disk, a nonomino, a twisted wand, a plain brass coffer and an old stable to the south, half-fallen into ruin.
Also here: Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, the body of Lord Michaellangello who is lying down, the body of Lord Darcmystic who is lying down, the body of Lord Yarx who is lying down, the body of Lord Razcor who is lying down
Obvious paths: east, west, northeast, southeast.

>You hear the voice of Truekillr exclaim, "Come out foul beings!"

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!
Roundtime: 8 seconds.
Raivella falls to the ground!
Shadowkatt falls to the ground!
Kythe falls to the ground!

PR>You hear the ghostly voice of Yarx say, "Hail Katt..."

PR>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "gah"

PR>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "We in trouble"

>Shadowkatt says, "Hrm."

PR>You force Michaellangello's mouth open, and pour in a small amount from your green flask. A luminescent web briefly forms around Michaellangello, then fades into the body.

P>Raivella says, "bah..darkness in the horizon."

P>A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Grumbler.

You force Razcor's mouth open, and pour in a small amount from your green flask. A luminescent web briefly forms around Razcor, then fades into the body.

P>You pant.

P>A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Vult.

Grumbler takes your nervous system damage.

P>Vult asks, "Need a fogger here?"

Truekillr comes out of hiding.

Truekillr yells, "come out and show yourselves!"

R>You hear the voice of Shilok ask, "did someone take that acolote out ?"

Vult falls to the ground!
The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!
Roundtime: 8 seconds.
Grumbler falls to the ground!
Raivella falls to the ground!
Shadowkatt falls to the ground!
Kythe falls to the ground!

PR>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "yes I killed the acolyte"

You kiss Shadowkatt.

Vult asks, "Anyone need a fog?"

>The white owl watches you sagely for a moment.

Shadowkatt just kissed you.

>You hear the voice of Truekillr exclaim, "yes the owl is back!"

>Vult asks, "Shall I fog us all back?"

>The white owl descends to the ground and lands nearby.

>Shadowkatt pets Psionix's white owl.

>Grumbler says, "Feel free do."

>Raivella pets Psionix's white owl.

>Vult reaches down and tenderly cradles Michaellangello's lifeless hand in his.

You say, "Everyone is kept now."

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "The last owl was sucked into a void."

>Vult reaches down and tenderly cradles Darcmystic's lifeless hand in his.

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "Someone get the bodies out thanks."

>Vult reaches down and tenderly cradles Yarx's lifeless hand in his.

>You hear the ghostly voice of Yarx say, "I just took a bad bump on my knoggin..."

>Vult reaches down and tenderly cradles Razcor's lifeless hand in his.

>Kythe says, "I see a dead body to the west.."

Kythe was using Eye Spy to scout around the area.

>Vult says, "Okay."

w
>[Anwyn Castle Yard]
The expanse of the yard is so quiet, it's unsettling. In the southwest corner, the grass is thin, a result of the almost constant shadow cast by the curtain wall and its western tower. The fog is thicker here, shrouding the view of the castle in a shifting veil of mist. You also see an arch wight which appears dead, a heavy backpack, a dark shield, a war hammer, a dark shield, a dark shield, a green aventurine stone, a dark shield, a weathered thanot strongbox, a dark shield, a dark shield, some cuirbouilli leather, a stale apple tart, a dark shield, an old building along the castle's western wall and the stables.
Also here: Lord Psionix, Lord Dashieb, the body of Therrek who is lying down
Obvious paths: north, east.

You gesture at Therrek.
You hear a gentle voice whisper to you, "The soul of Therrek is already bound by the web of PRESERVATION, my child."

You sling a black vultite shield fire-branded with the image of a glowing dagger over your shoulder.

>You hear the ghostly voice of Therrek say, "Thankee Danay."

You are unable to drag Therrek anywhere.

>You are unable to drag Therrek anywhere.

>You are unable to drag Therrek anywhere.

You are unable to drag Therrek anywhere.

You hear the ghostly voice of Therrek say, "Ack."

>You kick Therrek!

Guess I was a little impatient there, heh.

>You hear the ghostly voice of Therrek say, "Sorry."

You grab Therrek's body and drag it east with you . . .

[Anwyn Castle Yard]
Wisps of cold fog drift across the yard in an eerie dance. A sparse, wiry turf braves the frigid climes, covering the expansive area between the outer curtain wall and the castle itself. Near the wall, stones lie jumbled on the ground, dislodged from the battlements above by time, wind and weather. You also see a white owl, a dark shield, a twisted wand, a plain brass coffer and an old stable to the south, half-fallen into ruin.
Also here: the body of Therrek who is lying down, Lord Vult who is lying down, Lord Grumbler, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, the body of Lord Michaellangello who is lying down, the body of Lord Darcmystic who is lying down, the body of Lord Yarx who is lying down, the body of Lord Razcor who is lying down
Obvious paths: east, west, northeast, southeast.

>You say, "get him too."

>Vult says, "Okay. fogging"

>Vult reaches down and tenderly cradles Therrek's lifeless hand in his.

You sling a black vultite shield fire-branded with the image of a glowing dagger off from over your shoulder.

You wipe the sweat from your brow.

>Shadowkatt says, "Them ghost things are kinda nasty."

>Vult's group blurs into a white fog, and then vanishes!

>Raivella nods to Shadowkatt.

>You hear the voice of Truekillr ask, "kinda?"

>You hear the voice of Truekillr say, "heh"

>Shadowkatt grins.

>Kythe says, "Katt..you can tell True more about the altar and stuff."

>Kythe says, "Since he wants to know."

Kythe is referring here to another, totally unrelated event, that had taken place in the GY. Just shows how confusing things can be when there are multiple events going on within a similar time frame.

>Shadowkatt asks, "What didnt ya tell?"

>Shadowkatt babbles something unintelligible.

>You say, "So I take it I have missed something."

>You hear the voice of Truekillr ask, "Ya sure absolutely positive is gosaena?"

Kythe asks, "Anyone else coming then?"

J>Kythe says, "Since I have to lead for some reason."

J>Shadowkatt says, "Gosaena's altar found."

Shadowkatt nods to you.

You ask, "Really?"

J>You hear the voice of Truekillr ask, "Positive"?"

J>Kythe says, "We think it's hers."

You say, "That would explain the other night"

J>You hear the voice of Truekillr ask, "Im mean without a shadow of a doubt?"

J>Shadowkatt says, "Fairly positive."

Kythe says, "I have no idea."

J>Shadowkatt says, "It all fits."

Talking as we wander around the castle.

J>Truekillr says, "Nae it doesnt Katt."

J>Shadowkatt says, "No, I mean what was seen there."

J>Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched. The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

J>Kythe says, "Nothing makes sense."

Kythe mumbles something that you don't quite catch.

You say, "We saw visions of death the other night, then just poof dead."

J>Truekillr says, "I have a feeling that altar may be to an Ur Daemon."

J>Shadowkatt says, "I know nothing of anything thats been going on here."

You can see here that the conversations are sort of getting confusing and True is apparently mixing up the Gosaena alter theory from the GY with the Anwyn Castle happenings, even though they were unrelated.

J>Truekillr says, "An Ur daemon named Ahrani."

J>Raivella furrows her brow.

J>Shadowkatt says, "Hm."

You ask, "I thought that was Terate's mother you said?"

J>Truekillr says, "It is."

J>Kythe says, "Place is emptier than a dwarf's mug of ale."

You ask, "She was an Ur-Daemon?"

You peer quizzically at Truekillr.

J>Truekillr says, "That is my theory"

J>You say, "I must say tis an odd one."

J>Truekillr says, "Nae so much"

J>Truekillr smiles at you.

J>Truekillr says, "Fits really."

Kythe asks, "Err..where are the stairs down here?"

J>Shadowkatt says, "Scythe is a symbol of Gosaena. Her shrine has always been rumored to be in the crypt somewhere."

J>Raivella says, "there's a chamber somewhere below."

 

 

[Wine Cellar]
The dark, cavernous cellar is filled with shelves holding dust-covered bottles of wine. Lining one of the walls are huge barrels, taller than a giantman, with massive spigots tapping the front of each one. A glance at one of the bottles reveals a date of such antiquity, it would render the contents either exquisite or pure vinegar. Whichever is the case, there is an abundance of it, for the shelves, with their bottles, stand rank after rank in this cavernous cellar. You also see the Shadowkatt disk and the Psionix disk.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: up.

You ask, "What are we looking for? The pentagram room?"

J>Kythe says, "I know there were stairs that led to a pentagram down there."

You nod to Kythe.

J>Kythe says, "Yeah..that's it..since we're wandering."

J>go cas
[Dim Recess]
This small closet of a room is dank and redolent with the heavy odor of the spirit-saturated, wooden casks. On the back wall, almost obscured by darkness, stone steps lead down into the guts of the ancient keep. You also see a rotting monir box.
Obvious exits: out.

>Lord Kythe's group just arrived.

Kythe babbles something unintelligible.

>You grin.

Kythe clasps your hand tenderly.

J>Raivella grins.

J>Lord Kythe's group climbed down some steps.

 

 

[Cavern Niche]
Once past the perimeter of the pentagram, the room narrows into a curved niche. Mounted on the stone of the back wall is a large mirror, its frame thickly carved with serpentine figures that writhe and curl around each other. The mirror seems strangely compelling. You also see a greenwing hornet, a greenwing hornet, a neat ochre scarf and an ancient carved chest.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: north, northeast, northwest.

J>Truekillr points at a framed mirror.

J>Kythe asks, "Here?"

J>Psionix taps an ancient carved chest.

You say, "The chest where the scroll was found is down here, with the mirror."

J>Raivella asks, "that's her?"

J>Raivella asks, "Arahni?"

J>Psionix says, "locked ches"

J>Truekillr says, "Ahrani."

J>Truekillr nods.

You nod to Psionix.

Raivella nods.

J>Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched. The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Leaving in that locate. We were getting them periodically, which is typical if others hear you're out looking for what's going on and they want to keep tabs on specific people or groups.

 

You say, "Nothing in it right now. Mxenna opened it the other night."

J>Raivella says, "this was where one of the stones were found"

J>You nod to Raivella.

J>Kythe nods to Raivella.

J>You say, "And the scroll."

J>Truekillr says, "It could be Goasaena's shrine. If it is it has nothing to do with this tonight."

Finally figuring out they'd been talking about different things.

J>Kythe asks, "What scroll?"

J>Truekillr frowns.

Within the blink of an eye, the surface of the imposing mirror clouds, then coalesces into a dark, whorling maw. Gradually, a shadowy face forms out of the vortex, and bottomless, black eyes search the room, finally settling on you. Beneath the ghastly eyes, an unstable mouth moves in silent laughter that's only audible within your deepest consciousness.

Just as you involuntarily clench your eyes shut, the presence is gone, leaving the room incongruously normal -- once you finally dare to open your eyes and look again. The mirror hangs there, its blank face almost an affront.

Kythe blinks.

J>You glance at a framed mirror.

J>Truekillr says, "Gah"

J>Kythe asks, "What the?"

J>Shadowkatt groans.

J>Raivella says, "that happens."

J>Raivella nods.

You say, "Norandar found a scroll here a few nights ago."

J>Shadowkatt glances at a framed mirror.

J>Truekillr says, "That mirror should be destroyed."

J>Raivella just touched a framed mirror.

You say, "It seems to be partly sentient and is rather evil."

Raivella says, "must act as a gateway."

J>You say, "I think it has to do with or is what Terate found."

I was talking about the scroll, and the others about the mirror.

J>Kythe just touched a framed mirror.

J>Raivella says, "should she come here..the mirror would be her access is my guess."

J>Truekillr says, "Nae"

J>Truekillr says, "We dead if something comes that shouldnt"

J>Truekillr smiles.

J>Raivella pokes her finger at a framed mirror.

J>Raivella nods.

J>Truekillr gazes heavenward.

You say, "Some Vvrael came here and tried to pull Rayyne and Shalli through a hole that opened up."

J>Shadowkatt shifts her weight.

J>Truekillr asks, "What is your plan Vvrael?"

J>Raivella asks, "Hmmm..shall we move on?"

J>Truekillr says, "I do not like this. Those quakes were un natural."

J>Truekillr nods.

J>Truekillr gazes heavenward.

J>Raivella nods.

J>Shadowkatt nods.

J>Truekillr frowns.

J>Lord Kythe's group just went north.

 

[Pentagram West]
As you move around the pentagram, the lines seem to waver. Parts of the lines that seemed golden a moment before shift to bronze, then fade to the verdigris of old copper. The walls are very rough, and here at close range, one can see a pattern of scratches etched across their surface -- almost as if something had marked the rock walls with claws.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: east, southeast.

You say, "Nothing about any of this is natural."

J>Truekillr asks, "claws?"

J>Truekillr frowns.

J>Truekillr says, "This is an Ur-Daemon. We have a summoning chamber"

Truekillr shivers.

J> * Pelendur just bit the dust!

J>You grimace.

J>You gesture into the air.
Your vision begins to become murky and clouded. You have a sensation of rapidly passing distance. Eventually your sight begins to clear and a vision of Pelendur's surroundings fills your mind...

[Inner Ward Gateway]
This is the main gateway into the castle's inner ward. On each side, octagonal towers flank it, and a wall-walk above it, with parapet walls, offers additional defense. Once inside, the old portcullis is visible, now frozen in its raised position. North is the castle's inner yard and beyond that, the castle itself -- finally visible, wrapped like a precious piece of porcelain within its walls and battlements. You also see a floating eye which appears dead and a ghost.
Also in the room: the body of Lord Pelendur who is lying down
Obvious exits: north, southeast, southwest.

J>Truekillr says, "This place reeks of evil."

J>Raivella nods.

You say, "Pel is outside with a ghost"

Kythe asks, "Does this remind anyone else of the manor on Teras?"

J>Truekillr sighs.

J>Lord Kythe's group just went east.

J>Truekillr says, "Figures. Back up"

J>Truekillr asks, "Psio a haste two?"

 

Trying to go up and find Pelendur. Well, I wanted to find Pel. Truekillr only cared about going after the ghost.

J>Psionix gestures at Truekillr.
Truekillr begins moving faster than you thought possible.

J>Truekillr says, "go go"

J>Lord Kythe's group just went east.
[Anwyn Castle, Great Hall]
This cathedral-sized room, the heart of the castle, extends up at least three-stories tall. Two rows of stone piers march down its length, each with an elaborately carved capital. The huge beams supporting the ceiling rest on the tops of the piers. Doors are visible on the hall's southern expanse, but are curiously walled up with stone. On the room's western wall, an impressive flight of stairs leads to other rooms in that wing. At the opposite end, discrete stairs lead into the flanking tower. You also see a ghost.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: west, down.

J>Truekillr swings a gleaming pure white iorake falchion at a ghost!
AS: +321 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +29 = +0
A clean miss.

J>Truekillr swings a gleaming pure white iorake falchion at a ghost!
AS: +321 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +87 = +58
A clean miss.

J>Truekillr swings a gleaming pure white iorake falchion at a ghost!
AS: +321 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +82 = +53
A clean miss.

Truekillr swings a gleaming pure white iorake falchion at a ghost!
AS: +321 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +88 = +59
A clean miss.

J>Lord Kythe's group just went down.

 

[Anwyn Castle, Great Hall]
This cathedral-sized room, the heart of the castle, extends up at least three-stories tall. Two rows of stone piers march down its length, each with an elaborately carved capital. The huge beams supporting the ceiling rest on the tops of the piers. Doors are visible on the hall's southern expanse, but are curiously walled up with stone. On the room's western wall, an impressive flight of stairs leads to other rooms in that wing. At the opposite end, discrete stairs lead into the flanking tower. You also see the Shadowkatt disk, the Psionix disk and a ghost.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: west, down.

J>A ghost gestures and utters a phrase of arcane magic.

J>Kythe says, "Ack."

Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +349 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +24 = +23
A clean miss.

J>Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +349 vs DS: +385 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +89 = +88
A clean miss.

J>Psionix starts to attack the ghost, but stops short with a funny look on his face.

J>Lord Kythe's group just went west.

 

 

So they kept going back in and out trying to get the ghost but I was worried about Pelendur, so fogged, only to find he was okay and at the gate.

 

You gesture into the air.
A silvery fog envelopes you. You feel a sudden lurching motion, and as the fog dissipates you see...

[Wehnimer's, Land's End Rd.]
You are scrutinized by vigilant soldiers as you arrive at the wide gateway guarding the land route to Wehnimer's Landing. The frenetic pace of the city to the south is a far cry from the deceptive calm of the wilds of Elanith outside. Two daunting towers survey the countryside and protect the town, flanking the road to the east and west. You also see the Camulos disk, the Jamousii disk, a falcon, a leather knapsack, some manna bread, some manna bread, an enruned brass trunk, a rock crystal and a wooden barrel.
Also here: Lord Jenek, Lady Olsa, Lord Kriztian, Rennselaer, Daimler, Lady Warmcuddle, a stunned Lord Jamousii, a stunned Lord Pelendur who is lying down, Lady Feala who is seated, Manodith, Galaris, the body of Lady Alycia who is lying down, Juspy who is lying down, Lord Aeolus, Lord Vurkarron, Evanges, Lord Flame, Lord Gyenn who is lying down, Konphlyctov who is lying down, Deniara who is seated, Mattiahs who is lying down, Tieryn
Obvious paths: south.

J>Pelendur sits up.

J>You rub Pelendur.

 

This is a "drop everything" example I was referring to in the tips above. Pelendur was my best friend at the time and I wanted to make sure he was okay. Once we chatted and I knew he was all right my first priority was getting back to the potential action to make sure I didn't miss anything. I also told him to join us as soon as he was recovered so he wouldn't miss anything either.

You gesture into the air.
A silvery fog envelopes you. You feel a sudden lurching motion, and as the fog dissipates you see...

[Anwyn Castle, Great Hall]
This cathedral-sized room, the heart of the castle, extends up at least three-stories tall. Two rows of stone piers march down its length, each with an elaborately carved capital. The huge beams supporting the ceiling rest on the tops of the piers. Doors are visible on the hall's southern expanse, but are curiously walled up with stone. On the room's western wall, an impressive flight of stairs leads to other rooms in that wing. At the opposite end, discrete stairs lead into the flanking tower. You also see the Shadowkatt disk, the Psionix disk and a ghost who is lying down.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Psionix, Lady Raivella, Lord Kythe
Obvious exits: west, down.

J>Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +369 vs DS: +335 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +20 = +89
A clean miss.

Raivella gestures.
An invisible force guides Raivella.

Psionix starts to attack the ghost, but stops short with a funny look on his face.

J>Psionix starts to attack the ghost, but stops short with a funny look on his face.

J>Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +369 vs DS: +335 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +95 = +164
... and hits for 59 points of damage!

J>Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +369 vs DS: +335 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +75 = +144
... and hits for 35 points of damage!

J>Psionix swings a rune-etched rolaren warblade at a ghost!
AS: +369 vs DS: +335 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +14 = +83
A clean miss.

J>A wave of power flows out of Kythe and toward a ghost.
Suddenly the ghost bursts into flames!
The ghost flails about wildly while trying to extinguish the flames.
... 25 points of damage!

 

Tons more screen scroll of just pecking it to death...

 

A wave of power flows out of Kythe and toward a ghost.
Suddenly the ghost bursts into flames and falls to the ground!
The ghost rolls around desperately trying to extinguish the flames.
... 20 points of damage!
The ghost cries out in agony one last time and is released.
The tingling sensation and sense of security leaves a ghost.
The brilliant luminescence fades from around a ghost.
The bright luminescence fades from around a ghost.
The silvery luminescence fades from around a ghost.
The guiding force leaves a ghost.

J>Shadowkatt snorts.

J>Truekillr groans.

J>Raivella applauds.

J>Psionix applauds.

J>Kythe searches a ghost.
A ghost slowly fades into nothingness.

Kythe says, "Days like this make me glad I went into the monastary."

Kythe picks up a mangled shield.

JR>Kythe babbles something unintelligible.

J>Kythe says, "Well that was smart."

J>Kythe asks, "Danay..uncurse?"

Kythe ducks his head.

J>You gesture at Kythe.
The mangled shield which Kythe is holding suddenly glows with an intensely bright light!

J>Truekillr chuckles.

J>Kythe hugs you.

J>Kythe drops a mangled shield.

You chuckle.

J>Kythe says, "Was curious about it."

 

 

J>Truekillr asks, "This is odd. Back to the orginal room? or are we there?"

J>Truekillr says, "hold a sec"

J>Kythe asks, "Original room?"

J>Raivella says, "the crypt."

J>Kythe asks, "Someone else wanna lead? Someone else who knows they're way around?"

J>Kythe flails his arms about.

J>Truekillr says, "okay Im set."

J>Truekillr says, "back to the crypt"

J>Truekillr says, "Something evil lies there."

J>Lord Kythe's group just went down.

J>Truekillr says, "The ghosts and acolytes are new as of the past three days"

 

Then he changes his mind.

 

Truekillr asks, "Danay ya recall where that door that doesnt usually open is?"

You say, "Aye, the stables"

JR>Truekillr says, "thats where the ghost came from"

Truekillr asks, "Can we go there?"

JR>Kythe says, "You wanna lead Danay? I have no idea where I'm going."

Guess I should add another rule. Always have a full set of maps for being involved in storylines in strange places!

 

[Anwyn Castle, Stables]
This old, wooden structure is barely still standing. Light shines down through the roof in beams that highlight floating motes of dust. In the quiet, a faint 'cooing' can be heard, revealing the presence of doves roosting in the rafters above. Derelict horse stalls along the back wall march east, down the length of the building. You also see the stable door.
Obvious exits: east.
Raivella, Shadowkatt, Truekillr and Kythe followed.

>Truekillr asks, "this door?"

You say, "Hmmm"

>Shadowkatt glances at the stable door.

>look door
You see nothing unusual.

>go door
[Anwyn Castle Yard]
The expanse of the yard is so quiet, it's unsettling. In the southwest corner, the grass is thin, a result of the almost constant shadow cast by the curtain wall and its western tower. The fog is thicker here, shrouding the view of the castle in a shifting veil of mist. You also see a moaning spirit, a stale apple tart, an old building along the castle's western wall and the stables.
Obvious paths: north, east.
Raivella, Shadowkatt, Truekillr and Kythe followed.

You say, "That was not it"

>Truekillr says, "This isnt the one I was thinking of."

>Truekillr asks, "Also there is a second mirror?"

You say, "Aye, I thought it was the stable, but I remember wrong."

>You nod to Truekillr.

You say, "Upstairs I think."

>Truekillr asks, "Can we go to both those places?"

>Suddenly Rayyne appears in the room holding onto a ring she has just placed on her finger.

>Rayyne hugs you.

>You smile at Rayyne.

You hug Rayyne.

You ask, "Rayyne, where was that door?"

You say, "The one with the markings."

>Truekillr bows to Rayyne.

>Rayyne points at an old building along the castle's western wall.

>Truekillr says, "This is odd lass. What is wrong. You've yet to speak a word to me."

>Shadowkatt glances at an old building along the castle's western wall.

>You ask, "Want to join us?"

Rayyne says, "I did..but you had some kind of rapid action going."

Truekillr nods to Rayyne.

>go buil
[Curtain Wall Building]
The splintered remains of tables and benches are strewn about this large chamber. Antiquated pikes are still mounted at intervals along the walls, suggesting this was the castle barracks. Over in a dark corner, something scuttles about in the debris. You also see a door leading out to the castle yard.
Obvious exits: north.
Rayyne, Raivella, Shadowkatt, Truekillr and Kythe followed.

Truekillr says, "had to kill that ghost"

You say, "Ah"

You point at a dark corner.

>look in corn
You notice a pair of bright, red eyes glaring at you from the shadows. They glint evilly as if daring you to come any closer.

>Rayyne says, "Go North"

You nod.

n
> [Castle Barracks]
Walking into this room is like walking into winter. A gripping cold that defies explanation holds the chamber in its fist. Wooden bunks stand in rows along the walls, almost all of them in one piece -- surprising with so much wreckage to be found in other parts of this old fortification. Some strange characters have been painted over the doorframe with a red-tinted pigment.
Obvious exits: south.
Rayyne, Raivella, Shadowkatt, Truekillr and Kythe followed.

>Rayyne points at the doorframe.

You point at the doorframe.

>Truekillr frowns.

>Shadowkatt gazes with interest at the doorframe.

>Rayyne exclaims, "no..not here!"

You shudder.

You ask, "Eh?"

You peer quizzically at Rayyne.

>Rayyne smiles.

>Rayyne says, "The locked door in the corner."

You ask, "Which corner?"

>Rayyne says, "This is the symbols."

You say, "This is what we were looking at the other night."

You say, "What now? I hate leading."

R>Rayyne says, "Join me"

>Rayyne says, "I'll take you to the other door"

R>Truekillr says, "This is simply the barracks. I am more interested in the second mirror"

J>Rayyne says, "The second mirror is on the North side of the Castle."

 

We were joined by a couple others.

 

J>Truekillr asks, "Can we see the door and that mirror please?"

J>You say, "I have not been there in a long time and could not remember where it is."

[Castle Crypt]
Darkness cloaks the corner of the old crypt. The carved marble slabs crowd together, supporting their veil-shrouded burdens with little room left to thread between them. You also see an arch wight and a frumpy blue skirt.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: east.

J>Rayyne just touched a small door.

J>look door
Almost obscured by shadows in the back corner, a small door is inset into the stone walls. It is bolted and locked securely.

J>Raivella gestures at a small door.
A small door vibrates slightly.

You gaze with interest at a small door.

J>open door
There doesn't seem to be any way to do that.

J>Shadowkatt pokes her finger at a small door.

J>Kythe asks, "I assume you've tried to phase it already Rayyne?"

J>Rayyne nods.

J>Kythe nods.

J>Truekillr gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

J>Truekillr asks, "Bash?"

J>Rayyne says, "And bashers have tried bashing."

J>Truekillr nods.

J>A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Pelendur.

You say, "Tis very secure."

Vesuviuz asks, "so no one's ever been through it?"

J>Rayyne says, "Ok..let's go to the other mirror."

You smile at Pelendur.

J>Shadowkatt says, "No lock."

J>Pelendur smiles.

J>Shadowkatt just hugged Pelendur.

J>Pelendur joins Rayyne's group.

J>Pelendur just hugged Shadowkatt.

J>Rayyne says, "Not to my knowledge. Could be where the old man with the scrolls is buried."

 

 

[Anwyn Castle, West Tower]
The vaulted ceiling is low, and as a result, the room seems warmer than most of the other parts of the castle. The chamber is in remarkably good condition -- the large fireplace still possesses its decorative carving and a few furnishings survive intact. By far, the most noticeable thing in the room is the large mirror hanging above the hearth. It seems to absorb and amplify the low light drifting in through the narrow slit windows. You also see a greenwing hornet, a dark shield, a simple ochre skirt and an arched door leading outside.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: east, up.

J>Pelendur whispers, "Have you learned about what is oging on?"

J>Rayyne says, "This is one mirror."

J>whis pele nay
Ok.

J>Truekillr frowns.

J>Truekillr gazes with interest at a large mirror.

J>Kythe just touched a large mirror.

J>Truekillr says, "A portal..."

J>Deverius stares at a large mirror.

J>whis pele I just fogged because Yarx was dead and landed here in all this
J>Ok.

Within the blink of an eye, the surface of the imposing mirror clouds, then coalesces into a dark, whorling maw. Gradually, a shadowy face forms out of the vortex, and bottomless, black eyes search the room, finally settling on you. Beneath the ghastly eyes, an unstable mouth moves in silent laughter that's only audible within your deepest consciousness.

Just as you involuntarily clench your eyes shut, the presence is gone, leaving the room incongruously normal -- once you finally dare to open your eyes and look again. The mirror hangs there, its blank face almost an affront.

J>Rayyne says, "Land of the dreams."

You shudder.

J>Kythe says, "Same visage."

J>Shadowkatt groans.

J>Deverius flinches.

A nonomino lets out a blood curdling scream.
A nonomino drops a dark shield.
A nonomino turns into a pile of dust on the ground that quickly blows away.

J>Rayyne slings a black diamond-studded shield over her shoulder.

J>Deverius frowns.

J>Rayyne picks up a mangled shield.

J>Vesuviuz just tried to pull a large mirror.

J>Truekillr gestures at Rayyne.
The mangled shield which Rayyne is holding suddenly glows with an intensely bright light!

Rayyne put a mangled shield inside her cloak of Illistim.

J>Truekillr smirks.

J>Kythe nods.

Kythe says, "I was just about to say."

J>You grin.

J>Kythe says, "Those are cursed."

J>Rayyne grins.

J>look mirr
The mirror seems to be giving off light, almost like a window. However, when you gaze into it, the reflection is unremarkable--except for a slight shimmer that occasionally disturbs the image, like ripples across the surface of a pool of water.

You ask, "Rayyne, the hole that opened, was that down by the chest?"

J>Rayyne asks, "Have you seen the other mirror?"

J>Truekillr says, "I am interested in where those acolytes are coming from, and what the Ghosts mean."

J>Truekillr nods to Rayyne.

J>Rayyne nods.

You nod to Rayyne.

J>Truekillr says, "It is Ahrani."

J>Raivella nods to Truekillr.

J>Vesuviuz says, "the ghosts are crazy"

Pelendur whispers, "I was killed by a ghost, same thing that killed Rayyne earlier."

J>Vesuviuz grins.

J>A ghost floats in!

J>A ghost gestures and utters a phrase of arcane magic.

J>Vesuviuz says, "like there"

J>Deverius glances at a ghost.

J>Raivella exclaims, "ack!"

J>Truekillr says, "speaking which"

J>Kythe says, "Speaking of which."

J>Vesuviuz chuckles.

J>Lady Rayyne's group just went east.

J>Truekillr says, "go back"

J>Lady Rayyne's group just went west.

[Anwyn Castle, West Tower]
The vaulted ceiling is low, and as a result, the room seems warmer than most of the other parts of the castle. The chamber is in remarkably good condition -- the large fireplace still possesses its decorative carving and a few furnishings survive intact. By far, the most noticeable thing in the room is the large mirror hanging above the hearth. It seems to absorb and amplify the low light drifting in through the narrow slit windows. You also see a greenwing hornet, a ghost who is lying down, a dark shield, a dark shield, a drake greatsword, a dark shield, a simple ochre skirt and an arched door leading outside.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: east, up.

J>Raivella cackles!

J>Vesuviuz says, "ok.. no one else say ghost"

J>A wave of power flows out of Kythe and toward a ghost.
Suddenly the ghost bursts into flames!
The ghost flails about wildly while trying to extinguish the flames.
... 25 points of damage!

J>Pelendur says, "Ghosts are bad."

J>Lady Rayyne's group just went east.
[Tiered Wall-Walk]
From the high vantage point of this wall-walk, there is an excellent view of the western outer yard and the towers and spires of the castle itself. The walk is built in attractive tiers, with balustrades ornamented with the masterful carving seen throughout the old fortification. Two gargoyles peer down from crannies on the towers that flank the walk, their contorted appearance whimsical and forbidding as well. You also see a greenwing hornet, the Shadowkatt disk, a carceris and an arched door leading into the old Castle Keep.
Also here: Lord Truekillr, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious paths: west.

J>Vesuviuz grins.

Truekillr says, "Ill kill it just keep it dispelled"

Vesuviuz says, "its my fault.. i mentioned em"

J>Vesuviuz snickers.

J>Truekillr says, "back back"

J>Rayyne gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

J>Lady Rayyne's group just went west.
[Anwyn Castle, West Tower]
The vaulted ceiling is low, and as a result, the room seems warmer than most of the other parts of the castle. The chamber is in remarkably good condition -- the large fireplace still possesses its decorative carving and a few furnishings survive intact. By far, the most noticeable thing in the room is the large mirror hanging above the hearth. It seems to absorb and amplify the low light drifting in through the narrow slit windows. You also see a greenwing hornet, a ghost, a dark shield, a dark shield, a dark shield, a simple ochre skirt and an arched door leading outside.
Also in the room: Lord Truekillr, Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: east, up.

* Truekillr just bit the dust!

A ghost points both spectral hands at Truekillr!
CS: +625 - TD: +506 + CvA: +13 + d100: +72 == +204
Warding failed!
A ghost blasts Truekillr for 156 points of damage.
... 30 points of damage!
Amazing shot through Truekillr's nose enters the brain!

* Truekillr drops dead at your feet!
Truekillr appears less confident.
The translucent sphere fades from around Truekillr.
Truekillr appears somehow different.
The brilliant luminescence fades from around Truekillr.
Truekillr seems a bit less imposing.
A white glow rushes away from Truekillr.
The very powerful look leaves Truekillr.
The powerful look leaves Truekillr.
The deep blue glow leaves Truekillr.
The opalescent aura fades from around Truekillr.
Truekillr seems slightly different.
The brilliant aura fades away from Truekillr.
Truekillr appears less secure.
The bright luminescence fades from around Truekillr.
The silvery luminescence fades from around Truekillr.
The light blue glow leaves Truekillr.
The dim aura fades from around Truekillr.
The white light leaves Truekillr.
The wall of force disappears from around Truekillr.

The ghost moans with evil delight!

Rayyne gestures at a ghost.
Rayyne starts to cast at the ghost, but stops short with a funny look on her face.

J>Kythe gestures at a ghost.
The tingling sensation and sense of security leaves a ghost.

Deverius stares at a ghost.

J>You hear the ghostly voice of Truekillr say, "heh"

Shadowkatt says, "omph"

Raivella says, "ack"

J>Pelendur gestures at Truekillr.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Truekillr, then fades into the body.

J>Deverius rubs Truekillr gently.

J>A ghost gestures and utters a phrase of arcane magic.

J>You concentrate on the Spirit Strike spell...
Your spell is ready.

Lady Rayyne's group just went east.

[Tiered Wall-Walk]
From the high vantage point of this wall-walk, there is an excellent view of the western outer yard and the towers and spires of the castle itself. The walk is built in attractive tiers, with balustrades ornamented with the masterful carving seen throughout the old fortification. Two gargoyles peer down from crannies on the towers that flank the walk, their contorted appearance whimsical and forbidding as well. You also see a carceris and an arched door leading into the old Castle Keep.
Also here: Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne
Obvious paths: west.

J>You gesture at Shadowkatt.
An invisible force guides Shadowkatt.

J>Vesuviuz says, "thats sick"

J>Rayyne gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

Lady Rayyne's group just went west.
[Anwyn Castle, West Tower]
The vaulted ceiling is low, and as a result, the room seems warmer than most of the other parts of the castle. The chamber is in remarkably good condition -- the large fireplace still possesses its decorative carving and a few furnishings survive intact. By far, the most noticeable thing in the room is the large mirror hanging above the hearth. It seems to absorb and amplify the low light drifting in through the narrow slit windows. You also see a ghost, a dark shield, a dark shield, a dark shield, a simple ochre skirt and an arched door leading outside.
Also in the room: Lord Kythe, Lady Raivella, Lord Vesuviuz, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lady Rayyne, the body of Lord Truekillr who is lying down
Obvious exits: east, up.

J>A wave of power flows out of Kythe and toward a ghost.
Suddenly the ghost bursts into flames and falls to the ground!
The ghost rolls around desperately trying to extinguish the flames.
... 25 points of damage!

J>A ghost slowly floats back into a standing position.

J>Raivella says, "it heard him"

A ghost notices Shadowkatt botch an attempt at concealing herself.

J>Deverius gestures at a ghost.
Deverius starts to cast at the ghost, but stops short with a funny look on his face.

J>You hear the ghostly voice of Truekillr ask, "Ghost why?"

J>Kythe gestures at a ghost.
a ghost blinks and looks around in confusion for a moment.

You swing an onyx-hilted eonake falchion at a ghost!
AS: +269 vs DS: +315 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +95 = +84
A clean miss. Round time: 5 sec.

I already knew their DS was too much for me, after all they were higher level than Rift creatures, but sometimes you just gotta take a swing anyway!

Deverius mutters under his breath.

JR>To your utter amazement, Truekillr's mouth opens and a terrible scream of rage comes out along with a wall of force that ripples out from Truekillr's pale body

A ghost is caught by the force!

JR>A ghost notices Shadowkatt botch an attempt at concealing herself.

JR>Rayyne reaches down and tenderly cradles Truekillr's lifeless hand in hers.

JR>You grimace.

JR>Kythe gestures at a ghost.
CS: +395 - TD: +512 + CvA: +25 + d100: +55 == -37
Warded off!

A ghost swings a drake greatsword at Raivella!
AS: -10 vs DS: +704 with AvD: +44 + d100 roll: +5 = -665
A clean miss.

Shadowkatt says, "Bah"

JR>Rayyne gestures.

Your surroundings blur for a moment . . .

[Wehnimer's, Land's End Rd.]
You are scrutinized by vigilant soldiers as you arrive at the wide gateway guarding the land route to Wehnimer's Landing. The frenetic pace of the city to the south is a far cry from the deceptive calm of the wilds of Elanith outside. Two daunting towers survey the countryside and protect the town, flanking the road to the east and west. You also see a white cat who is sitting, the Mordri disk, a scratched maoral coffer, some manna bread, a leather knapsack, some manna bread, some manna bread, a rock crystal and a wooden barrel.
Also here: Lord Kythe, Lord Vesuviuz, Lady Raivella, the body of Lord Truekillr who is lying down, Lord Pelendur, Lady Rayyne, Lord Deverius, Enkeidu, Belindess, Lady Dearlae, Jothan, Paetur, Lord Staggered who is lying down, Golbi who is seated, Dargeran, Ritzland, Lord Mordri who is kneeling, the body of Lady Liyte who is lying down, Lady Erinaa, Mistomeer who is seated, Lord Fremie who is lying down, Knappa who is lying down, Lady Marelayna who is seated, Galaris who is lying down, Lord Vurkarron, Lord Gyenn who is lying down, Deniara who is seated, Tieryn
Obvious paths: south.

JR>Staggered gestures.
A strong whirlwind whips through the area, stirring up dust and other small pieces of debris, which form a small cloud overhead.

A bolt of pure energy suddenly leaps out from the center of the dust cloud, striking Staggered squarely and knocking him to the ground!

... 25 points of damage!
Heavy jolt to chest causes solar plexus to explode. Remarkable display of spraying blood.
He is stunned!
The whirlwind subsides, allowing the dust cloud to settle.

This was back when the North Gate was the only landing spot for Word of Return so there were almost always empaths and clerics there...and elementalists injuring or killing themselves trying to make a node to help out the empaths and clerics.

J>Pelendur says, "Welcome to the, Killed by a ghost club, Truekillr."

J>Vesuviuz says, "i'm goin back"

J>Deverius asks, "Why did you want us to go back to it Truekillr?"

J>Deverius peers quizzically at Truekillr.

J>Pelendur rubs Truekillr gently.

J>Raivella says, "the ghost seems to know of your intetions Truekillr."

J>You chuckle at Pelendur.

 

 

Katt was accidentally left behind because she was removed from the group when trying to hide, so I fogged back to her while Pelendur raised Truekillr.

 

[Castle Crypt]
Darkness cloaks the corner of the old crypt. The carved marble slabs crowd together, supporting their veil-shrouded burdens with little room left to thread between them. You also see an arch wight, an arch wight, a nonomino and a frumpy blue skirt.
Also in the room: Lady Shadowkatt
Obvious exits: east.

Shadowkatt says, "Lost the ghost."

J>You say, "Rayyne is coming back, she did not mean to leave you."

An arch wight gestures at you!
The ground beneath you begins to boil violently!
You are injured!
... 5 points of damage!
Minor burns to back. Feels uncomfortable.
The ground then quickly cools.

J>You grumble.

>You say, "I just got that healed."

 

Pelendur rejoined us and Katt wanted to look for the ghost.

You ask, "where did you say Katt?"

>Shadowkatt says, "West tower."

 

>go tow
[Anwyn Castle, West Tower]
The vaulted ceiling is low, and as a result, the room seems warmer than most of the other parts of the castle. The chamber is in remarkably good condition -- the large fireplace still possesses its decorative carving and a few furnishings survive intact. By far, the most noticeable thing in the room is the large mirror hanging above the hearth. It seems to absorb and amplify the low light drifting in through the narrow slit windows. You also see a greenwing hornet, a nonomino who is lying down, a simple ochre skirt and an arched door leading outside.
Obvious exits: east, up.
Pelendur and Shadowkatt followed.

>Shadowkatt nods.

>e
[Tiered Wall-Walk]
From the high vantage point of this wall-walk, there is an excellent view of the western outer yard and the towers and spires of the castle itself. The walk is built in attractive tiers, with balustrades ornamented with the masterful carving seen throughout the old fortification. Two gargoyles peer down from crannies on the towers that flank the walk, their contorted appearance whimsical and forbidding as well. You also see a carceris, a greenwing hornet, a greenwing hornet and an arched door leading into the old Castle Keep.
Obvious paths: west.
Pelendur and Shadowkatt followed.

With blinding speed, a greenwing hornet buzzes around behind you and stings you in a vulnerable spot!

>Shadowkatt says, "Looks like it might be gone."

With blinding speed, a greenwing hornet buzzes around behind you and stings you in a vulnerable spot!

>Shadowkatt says, "Try up."

>You grumble.

>Pelendur rubs you gently.

>(Danay rubs her behind)

You begin to feel a strange fatigue, spreading throughout your body.

Shadowkatt snickers.

This was the first time I'd ever run into the wasp/hornet sting type of poison. As I kept getting messaging I kept checking HEALTH, but it didn't show anything wrong with me so I had no idea what to do or if it was something I could fix. There was tons of screen scroll going with all the creatures swarming and I was trying to figure out what was going on and scrolling back to read the messaging.

>Lord Darcmystic's group just arrived.

>The strange lassitude is growing worse, making it difficult to keep up with any strenuous activities.

>Rayyne smiles.

You find yourself gradually slowing down, your muscles trembling with fatigue.

>You say, "I got stung and am not feeling well."

>Rayyne rubs you gently.

It's getting increasingly difficult to move. It feels almost as if the air itself is growing thick as molasses.

Shadowkatt asks, "Can we stop stopping in these rooms with stuff that boils?"

>Shadowkatt smirks.

No longer able to fight this odd paralysis, you collapse to the ground, as limp as an old washrag.

P>You don't seem to be able to move to do that.

P>Shadowkatt groans.

P>Pelendur just failed to pull you to your feet.

P>standYou don't seem to be able to move to do that.

P>Pelendur just failed to pull you to your feet.

P>Rayyne gestures at you.
Your skin takes on a more pinkish tint.

P>With a shaky gasp and trembling muscles, you regain at least some small ability to move, however slowly.

Shadowkatt smirks.

P>You don't seem to be able to move to do that.

P>Shadowkatt just failed to pull you to your feet.

P>Pelendur just failed to pull you to your feet.

P>Shadowkatt just failed to pull you to your feet.

P>standYou don't seem to be able to move to do that.

P>Pelendur glances at you with a concerned expression, checking for injuries.

P>Pelendur gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

P>You stand back up.

>Pelendur gestures at you.
Your skin takes on a more pinkish tint.

You feel the blood drain from your face.

Although you can't seem to move as quickly as you usually can, you're feeling better than you were just moments ago.

You say, "That was awful."

You shudder.

You say, "I am still weak."

You ask, "Someone else lead?"

>While you're still a bit shaky, your muscles are responding better than they were.

You say, "My muscles are shaking."

 

 

We decided to go to the Bower to rest and get away from the creatures for a while, because even though they weren't really endangering us, they were highly annoying with all the scroll.

[Castle Bower]
The branches of ancient fruit trees create an interwoven shelter that gives this part of the garden an intimate ambiance. A carved stone bench sits before the cliff wall at the back, extending its timeless invitation. Against the east wall, a stone fish with flared gills and arched tail spits a stream of water into a stone-edged pool choked with green algae. You also see a fancy turquoise belt, a white flask, a sturdy haon trunk and an enruned maoral strongbox.
Also here: Lord Darcmystic, Lord Pelendur, Lord Deverius, Lady Shadowkatt, Lord Truekillr, Lady Rayyne

You survey the area.

You say, "It does not look too safe."

J>Truekillr says, "it isnt any longer"

J>Deverius says, "Nothing here is safe at the moment..."

J>Rayyne says, "This has seen monsters, but usually safe."

J>You nod to Rayyne.

I should make a note here that Vesuviuz was infamous for showing up at events and ruining them by killing NPC's or annoying the holy heck out of everyone. But for once he seemed to be really into participating.

Vesuviuz asks, "and wha is our enemie here?"

J>Vesuviuz asks, "the vvrael?"

Vesuviuz asks, "or wha?"

J>Deverius shakes his head.

J>Truekillr nods to Vesuviuz.

J>Vesuviuz asks, "who's ghosts are they?"

J>Deverius furrows his brow.

J>Truekillr says, "But a greater force controls even they"

J>Vesuviuz says, "vvrael dun usualy use ghosts ta attack tho"

J>Darcmystic says, "Ghosts are souls, same basic thing, just different form"

Vesuviuz says, "Hm"

J>Vesuviuz says, "it dun seem like the vvrael tho"

J>Darcmystic says, "It seems a lot like the Vvrael, those sorcery acolytes were using anti-mana"

J>You say, "I am not sure Vesiviuz, things point to the vvrael, yet everything seems different than before."

J>Vesuviuz nods to you.

J>Vesuviuz says, "mebbe theres 2 forces were against"

J>You nod.

J>Truekillr says, "And aye we are. Ive my own theory which ive penned."

J>Truekillr says, "So far ive been correct."

J>Rayyne says, "Tonite, I heard what was beyond the mirrors called "The Land of the Dreams""

J>Vesuviuz asks, "whas tha theory true?"

J>Truekillr peers quizzically at Rayyne.

J>Truekillr asks, "From who lass?"

You ask, "Where did you hear that?"

J>Darcmystic asks, "the lands of dreams, or nightmares...?"

J>Vesuviuz just touched an alexandrite Sheru symbol.

Rayyne says, "Norandar, the Bard who found the scroll."

J>Vesuviuz grins.

J>Pelendur idly picks at a lustrous onyx Ronan symbol.

You nod to Rayyne.

J>Truekillr asks, "Ye spoke with him tonight?"

J>Rayyne nods.

J>You ask, "He is gone? Saying he left the scroll somewhere?"

J>Truekillr frowns.

J>Truekillr asks, "I thought he was staying away?"

J>You say, "I do not like the thought that scroll is out there."

J>Rayyne says, "He is. I left Wehnimer's...to escape some of the sadness."

J>Truekillr nods to Rayyne.

J>Truekillr rubs Rayyne gently.

J>Rayyne says, "And ran into him on the road. He was shocked. I think he's been walking in circles."

J>You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

You ask, "He is still not himself?"

 

Katt left at that point and we got on other topics, then finally went back to the subject at hand.

 

You shift your weight.

You say, "Too quiet."

You mumble something under your breath.

You say, "I am confused about everything."

J>Darcmystic says, "Well, theres something underneath this castle, has to be"

In the interests of accuracy, Darcmystic was pretty on the money with this statement. None of this had anything to do with the Ur-Daemon as Truekillr kept insisting.

You ask, "Rayyne, did Norandar really leave the scroll?"

You nod to Darcmystic.

You say, "Aye."

J>Vesuviuz nods to Darcmystic.

Darcmystic says, "would explain the shiftin and quaking outside the castle"

J>Vesuviuz exclaims, "i want to know whats through that door!"

>Rayyne says, "Danay, he doesn't know what happened to it."

You give your eyebrow a little workout.

>Rayyne leans against a garden bench.

You ask, "Because he cannot remember?"

>Rayyne nods.

You frown.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

You say, "That is not good at all."

>Rayyne says, "Later, voices were heard to say they'd find someone else."

You nod to Rayyne.

>Vesuviuz says, "i say we kill him and steal the scroll"

>Vesuviuz nods.

You say, "That is what I am afraid of."

>Deverius says, "I say.. we do something."

>Vesuviuz nods.

You say, "The scroll needs to be destroyed."

>Vesuviuz says, "i want that scroll"

>Rayyne asks, "But what?"

>Vesuviuz exclaims, "no!"

>Vesuviuz glances at you.

Deverius says, "Idle conversation seldom gets things done..."

>Vesuviuz says, "the scroll is mine.."

>Vesuviuz gibbers incoherently.

>Deverius rubs his chin thoughtfully.

>Deverius surveys the area.

>Darcmystic says, "Two possibilities Im thinkin of is"

Vesuviuz says, "i need that scroll"

>You say, "It endangers us all."

>Rayyne says, "Vesuviuz, the scroll is illegible."

>Deverius glances at Darcmystic.

>Darcmystic says, "either One, the Veil wasnt sealed.."

>Darcmystic says, "or Two"

You say, "The veil was sealed..."

>Darcmystic says, "Theres a rift under the castle.. another one.."

>Deverius furrows his brow.

>You say, "I think tis left overs...perhaps some that were trapped here by Terate a long time ago."

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe behind the door there is a stairway leadin down"

>Rayyne says, "Terate's Mother was a sorceress. Perhaps she called forth the demons behind the mirror in search of her son."

You ask, "Or perhaps tis Vvrael that are somehow different?"

You nod to Rayyne.

>Deverius says, "Why do these things happen to us... they should invade the empress, or Hochstib of a change..."

>You say, "Could be."

>Deverius mutters under his breath.

>Vesuviuz says, "jus tink bout this.."

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe the vvrael arent our enemie here"

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe there is sumone or something tryin ta open the veil again"

You say, "They did say the other night they want to learn and teach."

>Rayyne nods to you.

You say, "Of course then we dropped dead."

You mutter something inaudible.

>Rayyne says, "Perhaps it is the old man with the scroll."

>Vesuviuz says, "the ghosts dont look like vvrael to me"

>Deverius frowns.

>Darcmystic says, "The Vvrael only want to feed, in my very limited knowledge"

>Vesuviuz nods.

>Darcmystic says, "Aye, but the acolytes were using anti-mana"

Pelendur says, "Perhaps by teach, they could be speaking of teaching the person they wish to find."

Vesuviuz says, "the ghosts werent lookin ta kil us"

You say, "The ghosts may be from other workings here."

>Vesuviuz says, "they were tryin ta stop us from findin sumfin"

>Vesuviuz says, "that hasta be it.."

>Deverius asks, "What is the history of the castle..?"

Deverius gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

>Deverius says, "Perhaps that is the key here."

>You say, "Only a little bit is known."

>Darcmystic says, "This is where Terate grew up, and where the first stone was found"

>You nod to Deverius.

>Deverius frowns.

>Vesuviuz says, "Hmm"

>Vesuviuz says, "if terate grew up here"

You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

>Vesuviuz asks, "where did the people livin here go?"

>Vesuviuz asks, "wha hapened ta the castle?"

>Vesuviuz asks, "why are undead roamin it?"

You say, "Something evil wiped them out it seems to me."

>Vesuviuz nods to you.

>Vesuviuz says, "that evil was before the vvrael threat no doubt"

>Pelendur says, "The village outside the castle is abandoned; the people fled or were killed."

You say, "I think whatever dark things they summoned ended them."

>Rayyne says, "They are buried in the crypt...tho, there is a mystery there."

You nod to Pelendur.

>Vesuviuz says, "this is sumfin else.."

>Deverius says, "There must be two forces at work here..."

>Vesuviuz nods to Deverius.

>Vesuviuz says, "this all doesnt look like vvrael work"

>You nod to Vesuviuz.

>Darcmystic asks, "Yeah, but who?"

>Darcmystic says, "or what"

>Darcmystic gibbers incoherently.

>Vesuviuz says, "thats what we havta find out"

I'll point out here that I didn't know Vesuviuz - other than by seeing him around - or Deverius, or Darcmystic. It's typical in these kinds of storylines to end up in long conversations with total strangers and that's part of the whole experience.

You say, "I think it has to do with Terate's mother."

>Deverius rubs his chin thoughtfully.

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe.."

>Rayyne nods.

>Vesuviuz asks, "what do we know about terate's family?"

>Vesuviuz asks, "how much family? wha friends?"

>Pelendur asks, "What of his father, do we know anything of Terate's father?"

You ask, "How much did he tell you about them Rayyne?"

>Darcmystic says, "Maybe as soon as we came in the castle, we became part of a dream"

>Deverius furrows his brow.

>Vesuviuz says, "who is the person in the mirror where the first stone was found"

>Rayyne says, "Well, I believe his Father was a warrior...and left home to fight."

>Deverius asks, "The woman..?"

>Vesuviuz says, "that could be terate's mother"

You nod to Rayyne.

You nod to Vesuviuz.

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe who ever caused this.."

>Deverius says, "She looked... evil."

>Vesuviuz says, "locked terate's mom in the mirror"

>Rayyne says, "Terate's mother was a Sorceress and a Bard."

>Deverius says, "Just... evil."

>Vesuviuz nods.

>Vesuviuz says, "that hasta be it"

>Vesuviuz says, "terate's mother is locked in that mirror"

>Rayyne says, "They lived in the times when the elven houses were strong."

>Vesuviuz says, "or wha ever is behind the mirror"

You nod to Rayyne.

>Rayyne says, "Terate found the scrolls on the body of an old man who stopped here for a night."

You nod to Rayyne.

>Vesuviuz says, "Hmm"

>Rayyne says, "And unleashed the evil in them."

>Deverius asks, "How long ago was that?"

>Rayyne says, "He left home to protect his mother."

You ask, "Do you think Norandar's scroll was one of them?"

>Vesuviuz says, "old man.."

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

>Rayyne says, "I'm not sure. His scroll was alive...wanting to be found."

>You nod to Rayyne.

>Deverius frowns.

>Rayyne says, "Now, in the Crypt, we have a body who looks like Terate...."

You ask, "Is it possible the scrolls from the old man are unrelated to Terate's research that discovered the vvrael?"

>Rayyne says, "And one who looks like his dad."

>Rayyne says, "But the third is not his mother, I don't think."

>Rayyne nods to you.

>Pelendur asks, "Did Terate have any other siblings?"

>You nod to Rayyne.

>Rayyne says, "Pelendur, he never mentined them."

>Pelendur nods.

>Vesuviuz asks, "did terate have any other friends?"

>Vesuviuz peers quizzically at Rayyne.

>Rayyne says, "Not that I know of. "

You say, "But he certainly had other close kin."

>Vesuviuz says, "Hmm"

>Vesuviuz nods.

Rayyne says, "I don't even know that. "

>You say, "A noble family."

Vesuviuz says, "i think if we open that door.. we find alot of answers"

>Rayyne says, "All I know is he, his dad, and his mother."

>Darcmystic says, "He was probably alone most of his life considerin"

>Darcmystic says, "well, like, stayed by himself"

>Vesuviuz asks, "who owned this castle?"

>Rayyne says, "He had the training and bearing of someone who was tutored."

>You nod to Rayyne.

You say, "Aye, very educated...as all the nobles would have been."

>Vesuviuz asks, "who was his teacher?"

>Vesuviuz grins.

>Rayyne says, "No idea...except once he found the scrolls, he taught himself."

Vesuviuz says, "Hmm"

Vesuviuz says, "we have enough theories.."

Vesuviuz says, "now we need to find out if they are true or not.."

>You nod to Vesuviuz.

You say, "Now we need ideas on how to find the key to unlock the puzzle."

>Vesuviuz asks, "how do we go about duin that?"

>Vesuviuz says, "what's the relation between the two mirrors/"

Vesuviuz says, "why was the stone in this castle.."

>Vesuviuz says, "who put it there"

>Darcmystic asks, "Somethin bout the land of dreams right?"

>Vesuviuz asks, "wich stone was it here rayyne?"

You say, "You know....that is something about the stones we have never known."

Vesuviuz asks, "wich virtue?"

You say, "Where they came from..."

>Rayyne says, "It was the first one..found by Tedra."

>Vesuviuz asks, "whas the virtue tho?"

>Rayyne says, "let me think....I can't recall."

>Vesuviuz says, "and who owned this castle.."

>Vesuviuz says, "to keep a treasure like that hiden.."

You say, "Terate's family did."

>Pelendur says, "Terate's family owned the castle."

>Vesuviuz asks, "you sure they owned it and not only lived here?"

>You say, "They were an old noble family, probably held it for many generations."

>Deverius asks, "Who is Anwyn then..?"

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe anwyn is jus a name"

>Vesuviuz says, "like darkstone"

>Vesuviuz chuckles.

>Deverius frowns.

>Rayyne says, "Tedra's stone was a reflective glass stone."

>Vesuviuz asks, "wha was terate's family name?"

>Vesuviuz says, "Hmm it was reflective.."

>Pelendur whispers, "Was Terate's last name ever shown in his description; do you remember?"

>Vesuviuz says, "mirrors are reflective"

>Vesuviuz grins.

>Rayyne says, "And it had the story of the poor ole man who found the coin and tried to return it."

You say, "I forgot his name."

>whis pele I thought so...but maybe not
Ok.

>Darcmystic says, "Tedra's was honor"

>Darcmystic says, "was lookin through my scrolls a second"

>Rayyne smiles at Darcmystic.

You nod to Darcmystic.

>Vesuviuz asks, "if sumone said to you this is a piece of reflective glass, ya'd think it was a mirror right?"

>Darcmystic says, "Reflective glass, is kinda like a mirror"

>Darcmystic says, "heh"

>Darcmystic nods to Vesuviuz.

>Rayyne says, "That was an awful night. Terate tried to lead me here."

You nod.

>Vesuviuz says, "exactly.."

You nod to Rayyne.

>Vesuviuz says, "maybe it ties inta there bein those weird mirrors here"

You ask, "The stones are locked into the crown eh? No way to retrieve that one and bring it here is there?"

>Rayyne says, "Locked in, as far as I know."

You nod.

>Vesuviuz says, "Hmm"

Vesuviuz says, "we proly dont need it"

>Vesuviuz says, "we jus gotta find out more"

 

Pelendur and I decided to take one last look around the castle before retiring for the night.

 

>cli stair
[Turret]
A narrow staircase ends here in the tower's summit. Large shapes, crates and boxes that miraculously survived time, lurk against sloping walls that form an arch overhead. Little sounds in the shadows give evidence of mice scurrying about. You also see a greenwing hornet, a nonomino, a ghost and a nonomino.
Obvious exits: none.
Pelendur followed.

>Pelendur says, "Run."

prep 213

A ghost points both spectral hands at Pelendur!
CS: +625 - TD: +165 + CvA: +12 + d100: +41 == +513
Warding failed!
Pelendur suddenly looks terrified!
Pelendur turns and runs screaming into the distance . . . you don't hear him stop for quite some time.

>cast
You concentrate on the Minor Sanctuary spell...
Your spell is ready.

>You gesture.
A sense of peace and calm settles over the area.

>You laugh out loud!

You gesture into the air.
Your vision begins to become murky and clouded. You have a sensation of rapidly passing distance. Eventually your sight begins to clear and a vision of Pelendur's surroundings fills your mind...

[Wehnimer's, Talon St.]
The street runs between the northern wall and the central square that contains the main bazaar. The traffic is more varied, as shoppers, traders, travellers and merchants mix with the ever-present and watchful militia men. You hear rowdy cries and raucous laughter, as well as eerie sounds you cannot quite identify, coming from the building along the road. This is the infamous Cholgar's Bathhouse.
Also here: Lord Pelendur
Obvious paths: north, south.

>You laugh out loud!

>A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Pelendur.

You wave to Pelendur.

>Pelendur asks, "Sancted?"

>A ghost just climbed up a winding staircase.

You say, "Aye."

You ask, "Gave you a little scare eh?"

>Pelendur says, "Aye, never ran so fast in my life."

You laugh out loud!

>You nod.

>Pelendur says, "Ghost is not something to trifle with."

You say, "I heard your yells off in the distance fading fast."

>Pelendur nods.

>Pelendur says, "I said run...then I ran."

>Pelendur chuckles.

You laugh out loud!

You nod to Pelendur.

>Pelendur says, "Didn't think any would still be around."

You say, "I wish we could speak to the spirit of the ghost."

You nod to Pelendur.

You say, "Get ready to cast sanct. I am going up the stairs."

>Pelendur gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

>Pelendur says, "Ready."

>cli stair
[Turret]
A narrow staircase ends here in the tower's summit. Large shapes, crates and boxes that miraculously survived time, lurk against sloping walls that form an arch overhead. Little sounds in the shadows give evidence of mice scurrying about. You also see a ghost.
Obvious exits: none.
Pelendur followed.

>Pelendur gestures.
A sense of peace and calm settles over the area.

>desc ghos
You are not quite sure what to make of the ghost, as you have never seen anything that looks quite like it. Stopping a moment, you try to commit this creature to memory so that you can tell tales of it to your fellow adventurers back in the safety of the local tavern.

>You wave to the ghost.

>Pelendur gestures at a ghost.
CS: +182 - TD: +528 + CvA: +25 + d100: +74 == -247
Warded off!

>A ghost moans evilly!

>Pelendur says, "Whew."

You say, "Ghost...we are looking for information."

>Pelendur says, "My magics would have no effects."

> A ghost glares at you with the hatred of those who are no longer living in its eyes.

>A ghost moans evilly!

You say, "Uhh...ghost...you must remember something of this place and your people."

You frown.

>Pelendur says, "Ghost, you obviously have business in this realm; and killing people could not help you find rest quicker."

You say, "Not very cooperative."

>A ghost moans evilly!

>Pelendur glances at a ghost.

>A ghost moans evilly!

You moan.

>A ghost just climbed down a narrow staircase.

 

The ghost disappeared on us and we didn't see it again before leaving for the night.