Pain, Epiphany and Growth
Every part of Callista's being was telling her find out more about the force headed to Bugman's, to help all dwarf kind, to save her best friend and his people and in their journey in the here and now, to stop the evil Horde at the bottom of the dam. How can she balance this passion and drive whilst respecting her new companions and friends and their own beliefs and decisions?
Had Callista really managed her power well? Maybe she got to over-confident with the boar. Time to stop second guessing...
"Now only pain ... and darkness. Wow my head hurts. Then the dreams came. My dreams are always so full of colour and give me power back. Master says not too much dreaming at once or you won't come back... maybe a little to get my strength up. Pleasant flashes of my childhood and wonders of the gift of sight and the winds. I see it in every part of nature, in the sun and sea, in the horizon where the sea meets the sky, in the earth where the bright autumn leaves mix with the dirt and death becomes life again.
Fire, water, earth, wind and life itself.
Fire...orange, red, and the bright blue where the heat is at its strongest. Images of a young girl in the great library of Altdorf - blonde hair or red? What was her name? Oh yes! Daidolos. Blonde hair that slowly went orange and then red as her bright wizard powers became stronger. I was so instantly drawn to the teenage figure in a dark corner, leaning back in her chair with her feet slightly rebelliously on the desk piled down with books. Her nose buried in the dusty tome, the first snap of her fingers that brought flame immediately (and carelessly) caught my attention.
I remember thinking...'A bright wizard! She has the sight like me. Oh thank Azyr, someone that might understand me.' Many encounters later, I was always glad I did.
More flashes... all the fun... the study sessions... all the experiments, not always successful, but always fun... singed eyebrows. And oh, those crazy hunts for aged scrolls in dusty caves and strange abandoned houses. The trouble we got into! Would I have made it through the beginning of learning the lore of the heavens without her? Maybe, but I don't want to know. Where is Daidolos now?
Must come back now.... Master says not to dream to long.
Am I waking up now? Oh owwwwww, yes that is real pain."
Immediately comforted by being surrounded by dwarves that she senses as likely company of Eyvind, Callista thanks Azyr that she is being healed by a rune priest. She later takes some broth and meat from the foe that she had a large hand in besting. Thank god Dundas and Ombra tried to take the attention of my foes while we were in battle...
She is thankful for such a meaningful gift that matches not only her childhood sentiment, but also could lend to creating her own enchanted item. She cannot wait to present this to the Supreme Astromancer when it comes time.
Maybe everything will be all right, but she sure does miss Brahlmar. Is he okay?
Showing posts with label Ombra. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ombra. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Some quick bookkeeping.
I have fast tracked the recovery a little of our little band of misfits. I hope this is ok with you guys. I did not want our next session to just be endless sleep and fortitude rolls to recover wounds.
As of now and due to this Dundas has normal wounds of 6 and one critical and Callista has 9 normal wounds and 2 criticals. Ombra is fully healed but wakes up each morning with 2 stress due to his bad dreams. Ooops on rolling that chaos star Dylan!
I have also taken some thought and rewarded you appropriately.
Dundas now has an ivory charm that will add one fortune dice to all haggling attmepts
Callista has an ivory staff handle with runes saying "Dwarf Friend". This in itself carries no bonuses but can be combined with other staff items to perhaps make something rather fine in the future.
Ombra has picked up some healing salve that has six charges. It is specially designed to assist the healing of critical wounds.
you also have acquired 90 silver from the greenskins which you can divide equally or as you wish.
Feel free to add anything or ask questions
I have fast tracked the recovery a little of our little band of misfits. I hope this is ok with you guys. I did not want our next session to just be endless sleep and fortitude rolls to recover wounds.
As of now and due to this Dundas has normal wounds of 6 and one critical and Callista has 9 normal wounds and 2 criticals. Ombra is fully healed but wakes up each morning with 2 stress due to his bad dreams. Ooops on rolling that chaos star Dylan!
I have also taken some thought and rewarded you appropriately.
Dundas now has an ivory charm that will add one fortune dice to all haggling attmepts
Callista has an ivory staff handle with runes saying "Dwarf Friend". This in itself carries no bonuses but can be combined with other staff items to perhaps make something rather fine in the future.
Ombra has picked up some healing salve that has six charges. It is specially designed to assist the healing of critical wounds.
you also have acquired 90 silver from the greenskins which you can divide equally or as you wish.
Feel free to add anything or ask questions
The Aftermath of Boulder Dam
Ombra, Callista and Dundas, accompanied by the young dwarf ranger Eyvind withdraw from their bloody skirmish at Boulder Dam.
Bruised and battered they stagger doggedly on to a camp several miles away, carrying the unconscious Callista.
As they roll exhausted into their blankets, Eyvind says to Dundas "Dont worry about a thing, I saw everything and help is on its way." Nursing his broken nose Dundas rests his back against a tree. As Ombra collapses into a restless sleep he sees other shadowy dwarf figures moving stealthily on the edge of the campsite.
Ombra wakes early the next morning. His head is pounding and he feels like he has not slept. Yet he no longer feels demoralized, instead he feels a strange inspiration. With sudden purpose, he sets about doing his best to care for his injured comrades
A company of a dozen or so dwarfs are in camp. Most are sleeping still but four are on watch. Ombra notes that they are armed with crossbow and axe for the most part.
He looks at the unconscious Callista and smiles ruefully at the memory of the young mage calling forth shooting stars and magic darts to crash down on their enemies. She is in a serious state, the wound she received from the charging orc has resulted in a very serious head wound. With a determined air Ombra sets about changing her bandages.
Dundas is woken by Ombra an hour or so later and together they set about doing what they can for Dundas' injuries. By the time the sun has been up for an hour the camp is astir with dwarf activity. One dwarf ranger has taken charge of the large boar and is baking large chunks of it underground in a makeshift smokeless camp oven. Another older dwarf with white whiskers and gnarled fingers by the name of Thorgrm has cut away the boar tusks and spends the majority of the day whittling them with a carving knife.
By mid morning our party see some familiar faces. Dusty and travel worn that party of dwarf silver miners enter camp. Dundas can tell they have marched all night. With typical dwarf stoicism and complete disregard for the cares of the road they confer with Eyvind briefly while taking a meal on their feet. Then, before half an hour passes they are gone again, accompanied by several Dwarf rangers including Eyvind.
Focused on recovery Dundas and Ombra set about the business of healing themselves and Callista. They are joined soon after mid day by a austere looking dwarf dressed in fine purple cloth underneath his travel cloak
He introduces himself as Malric and he says he is a Rune priest. Dedicated to the Dwarf goddess Valaya. He specializes in healing and magical enchantment. He offers his assistance in caring for the injured Callista. Gratefully the adventurers accept.
By evening Callista has recovered consciousness. She is severely concussed and her vision is swimming but she is alive. She is able to take some broth and a little boar meat with the others.
Dwarfs have been coming and going all day. Finally just as the sun is about to set. Eyvind returns with the miners. Dundas notes that a few are missing. He sits with the Grey Wolf companions and tells them of the events of the day.
"Well my friends" he says. "A fine business you have started here." His wrinkled complexion wrinkles even further with amusement. He turns to Dundas. "So now young beardling, when I spied you on the road and when you tried to win me with that ridiculous smile of yours, I admit, I didn't think much of you. Dressed up like a dwarf clan warrior but with your Reiklander ways.... However, that business at the dam... the way you charged in and bowled over that orc! The way the two of you took down that boar!" Eyvind takes a moment to gnaw on the pork bone in his hands as if reaching a deeper appreciation for how it came to be there.
It seems that the dam has been collapsed by the miners and that much of the greenskin horde has been flooded and washed away. On top of this the miners managed to jimmy loose several of the boulders on the cliff and roll them done amidst the greenskins. Much damage and chaos has been caused. Eyvind warns that the threat is still there. The overall result is that of a bee sting, nothing more. Still thanks to our three adventurers and their unlikely dwarf associates, some time has been bought. The old ranger Thorgrm estimates several days or maybe a week before the orc warbosses restore order.
With gruff gestures Thorgrm passes a small item to Callista and to Dundas. To Callista he gifts a finely crafted ivory staff hilt. There is a dwarf rune on it. Thorgrim explains that it means "Dwarf-Friend" To Dundas he gifts an ivory charm fashioned in the shape of a hand with a coin in it's palm. He claps the younger dwarf on the shoulder and without any further word leaves to his bedroll.
As the old dwarf withdraws, Eyvind glances at the adventurers and says. "In the morning you should head west. The greenskins have been delayed but they will be on the march soon enough. Whatever your business is to the west you should attend to it." His countenance deepens, as if to say he know's full well what our party has in store for them. He then withdraws to his own blankets.
Malric is the last to leave the fire. He talks at some length with Callista about magical matters but can see that she is struggling with her injuries and eventually he too withdraws. Before he does so he points to Ombra and says. "That salve you have, use it tomorrow to help reduce the severity of your companions injuries." He then turns finally to Callista and says. "Take heart young maid, you are a dwarf friend now. But I think you were a true friend of one dwarf before. I know of him. I have seen him in my runecrafting. Danger threatens him, he is mixed up in things beyond his control." He sighs with frustration. "That's all I know"
* * * * *
OMBRA'S NIGHTMARES
The first night
Ombra walks through a shadowy world of unreality. He sees himself being dragged to safety by the armoured figure of Karl Jacobs at Redbark. He then sees himself stabbing Jacobs in the throat....He sees a beautiful woman, white blond hair blowing, She smiles then she snarls, she says his name.
"I have a gift for you Ombra. I can set aside your doubts....Before he can think things through Ombra nods in acceptance."
Ombra's spend's the next day in a surreal state... In terms of game mechanics he has acquired the 'inspired' condition, the opposite of his previous 'demoralised' conditon. The demoralised condition is not gone but it has no affect while Ombra is inspired.
The Inspired condition grants a fortune dice to every test Ombra makes. Along with this Ombra wakes with two (2) stress each morning due to his nightmares and restless sleep.
The second night
Ombra walks through the same shadowy world. Except this time there is no Jacobs. Instead Callista and Dundas are with him.
"She" is there again. "Well now Ombra, how do you like my gift?"
Ombra hesitates and turns to his companions.
What advice do shadowy dream Callista and Dundas have to give?
Ombra, Callista and Dundas, accompanied by the young dwarf ranger Eyvind withdraw from their bloody skirmish at Boulder Dam.
Bruised and battered they stagger doggedly on to a camp several miles away, carrying the unconscious Callista.
As they roll exhausted into their blankets, Eyvind says to Dundas "Dont worry about a thing, I saw everything and help is on its way." Nursing his broken nose Dundas rests his back against a tree. As Ombra collapses into a restless sleep he sees other shadowy dwarf figures moving stealthily on the edge of the campsite.
Ombra wakes early the next morning. His head is pounding and he feels like he has not slept. Yet he no longer feels demoralized, instead he feels a strange inspiration. With sudden purpose, he sets about doing his best to care for his injured comrades
A company of a dozen or so dwarfs are in camp. Most are sleeping still but four are on watch. Ombra notes that they are armed with crossbow and axe for the most part.
He looks at the unconscious Callista and smiles ruefully at the memory of the young mage calling forth shooting stars and magic darts to crash down on their enemies. She is in a serious state, the wound she received from the charging orc has resulted in a very serious head wound. With a determined air Ombra sets about changing her bandages.
Dundas is woken by Ombra an hour or so later and together they set about doing what they can for Dundas' injuries. By the time the sun has been up for an hour the camp is astir with dwarf activity. One dwarf ranger has taken charge of the large boar and is baking large chunks of it underground in a makeshift smokeless camp oven. Another older dwarf with white whiskers and gnarled fingers by the name of Thorgrm has cut away the boar tusks and spends the majority of the day whittling them with a carving knife.
By mid morning our party see some familiar faces. Dusty and travel worn that party of dwarf silver miners enter camp. Dundas can tell they have marched all night. With typical dwarf stoicism and complete disregard for the cares of the road they confer with Eyvind briefly while taking a meal on their feet. Then, before half an hour passes they are gone again, accompanied by several Dwarf rangers including Eyvind.
Focused on recovery Dundas and Ombra set about the business of healing themselves and Callista. They are joined soon after mid day by a austere looking dwarf dressed in fine purple cloth underneath his travel cloak
He introduces himself as Malric and he says he is a Rune priest. Dedicated to the Dwarf goddess Valaya. He specializes in healing and magical enchantment. He offers his assistance in caring for the injured Callista. Gratefully the adventurers accept.
By evening Callista has recovered consciousness. She is severely concussed and her vision is swimming but she is alive. She is able to take some broth and a little boar meat with the others.
Dwarfs have been coming and going all day. Finally just as the sun is about to set. Eyvind returns with the miners. Dundas notes that a few are missing. He sits with the Grey Wolf companions and tells them of the events of the day.
"Well my friends" he says. "A fine business you have started here." His wrinkled complexion wrinkles even further with amusement. He turns to Dundas. "So now young beardling, when I spied you on the road and when you tried to win me with that ridiculous smile of yours, I admit, I didn't think much of you. Dressed up like a dwarf clan warrior but with your Reiklander ways.... However, that business at the dam... the way you charged in and bowled over that orc! The way the two of you took down that boar!" Eyvind takes a moment to gnaw on the pork bone in his hands as if reaching a deeper appreciation for how it came to be there.
It seems that the dam has been collapsed by the miners and that much of the greenskin horde has been flooded and washed away. On top of this the miners managed to jimmy loose several of the boulders on the cliff and roll them done amidst the greenskins. Much damage and chaos has been caused. Eyvind warns that the threat is still there. The overall result is that of a bee sting, nothing more. Still thanks to our three adventurers and their unlikely dwarf associates, some time has been bought. The old ranger Thorgrm estimates several days or maybe a week before the orc warbosses restore order.
With gruff gestures Thorgrm passes a small item to Callista and to Dundas. To Callista he gifts a finely crafted ivory staff hilt. There is a dwarf rune on it. Thorgrim explains that it means "Dwarf-Friend" To Dundas he gifts an ivory charm fashioned in the shape of a hand with a coin in it's palm. He claps the younger dwarf on the shoulder and without any further word leaves to his bedroll.
As the old dwarf withdraws, Eyvind glances at the adventurers and says. "In the morning you should head west. The greenskins have been delayed but they will be on the march soon enough. Whatever your business is to the west you should attend to it." His countenance deepens, as if to say he know's full well what our party has in store for them. He then withdraws to his own blankets.
Malric is the last to leave the fire. He talks at some length with Callista about magical matters but can see that she is struggling with her injuries and eventually he too withdraws. Before he does so he points to Ombra and says. "That salve you have, use it tomorrow to help reduce the severity of your companions injuries." He then turns finally to Callista and says. "Take heart young maid, you are a dwarf friend now. But I think you were a true friend of one dwarf before. I know of him. I have seen him in my runecrafting. Danger threatens him, he is mixed up in things beyond his control." He sighs with frustration. "That's all I know"
* * * * *
OMBRA'S NIGHTMARES
The first night
Ombra walks through a shadowy world of unreality. He sees himself being dragged to safety by the armoured figure of Karl Jacobs at Redbark. He then sees himself stabbing Jacobs in the throat....He sees a beautiful woman, white blond hair blowing, She smiles then she snarls, she says his name.
"I have a gift for you Ombra. I can set aside your doubts....Before he can think things through Ombra nods in acceptance."
Ombra's spend's the next day in a surreal state... In terms of game mechanics he has acquired the 'inspired' condition, the opposite of his previous 'demoralised' conditon. The demoralised condition is not gone but it has no affect while Ombra is inspired.
The Inspired condition grants a fortune dice to every test Ombra makes. Along with this Ombra wakes with two (2) stress each morning due to his nightmares and restless sleep.
The second night
Ombra walks through the same shadowy world. Except this time there is no Jacobs. Instead Callista and Dundas are with him.
"She" is there again. "Well now Ombra, how do you like my gift?"
Ombra hesitates and turns to his companions.
What advice do shadowy dream Callista and Dundas have to give?
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
A Thief's Shadow Vol 2
A Thief’s
Shadow Vol 2
We arrived at a small mining town called Hollin, south-west of Nuln. All the people there seemed more working class compared to some within Nuln; covered in dirt and coal. We decided to head to the local tavern: The Hammer and Anvil. Dundas and Calista sat down as I talked to the bartender; this man would not shut his face and I zoned out half-way through. Interestingly enough he mentioned that the injured men and dwarves have been travelling through the town recently, without any particular reason; maybe just a small local dispute or much more?
There were other mercenary bands in the tavern. Most noticeably, men displaying black spears on their armour: we would later find out that they were indeed called The Black Spears. I decided to snoop in on their conversation; they were just simple men out of contracts and looking for work. Dundas, Calista and I decided to head to sleep for the night; however the room we got was not the most pleasant of places. The next day, Calista wanted to see the local herbs woman. Dundas and I sat out the front keeping guard. We heard a lot of noise coming from the shop but nothing too concerning. We headed out of the town, directly south towards our rendezvous point but ended up straying west because we were a day ahead of Grey Wolf party. We stumbled on an abandoned mine, in which we managed to scrounge up approx. 10 silver ore which Dundas could smelt when he could. I looked for the symbol, with no luck. I will find you.
We arrived at a small mining town called Hollin, south-west of Nuln. All the people there seemed more working class compared to some within Nuln; covered in dirt and coal. We decided to head to the local tavern: The Hammer and Anvil. Dundas and Calista sat down as I talked to the bartender; this man would not shut his face and I zoned out half-way through. Interestingly enough he mentioned that the injured men and dwarves have been travelling through the town recently, without any particular reason; maybe just a small local dispute or much more?
There were other mercenary bands in the tavern. Most noticeably, men displaying black spears on their armour: we would later find out that they were indeed called The Black Spears. I decided to snoop in on their conversation; they were just simple men out of contracts and looking for work. Dundas, Calista and I decided to head to sleep for the night; however the room we got was not the most pleasant of places. The next day, Calista wanted to see the local herbs woman. Dundas and I sat out the front keeping guard. We heard a lot of noise coming from the shop but nothing too concerning. We headed out of the town, directly south towards our rendezvous point but ended up straying west because we were a day ahead of Grey Wolf party. We stumbled on an abandoned mine, in which we managed to scrounge up approx. 10 silver ore which Dundas could smelt when he could. I looked for the symbol, with no luck. I will find you.
Eventually, we came upon a Hag tree which
was our rendezvous point. When hunting for a rabbit, I overhead Dundas and
Calista talking, but only caught the phrase "shouldn't trust him?” I
decided to confront them on the matter. Dundas proceeded to explain the
conversation he had with Brahlmar (See Bralmar's warning to Dundas). This
is not like the Jacobs I know, the man I saw at the Battle of the Redbark would
never do such things.
The Silver Lady concerns me, I have never seen nor
heard of a Silver Lady until Dundas spoke of his conversation with Brahlmar.
Furthermore, the end of the conversation did not sit right, ‘It’s all happening
again’….what does this mean? Has Jacobs been corrupted by this Silver woman?
…
Could she be involved with my parent’s death? No,
can’t be? Don’t be ridiculous...thieves do however meddle with all sorts of
people, it is not entirely unheard of for thieves to seek council from magical
folks. NO! Don’t be stupid, if Jacobs had seen the mark on the coin he would
have told me…or maybe she is controlling him I can’t dwell on it now, I need to
focus. I need to find out what is going on with Jacobs, the Silver Lady and my
parents murderer; no time for theorising, only facts.
…
After our lengthy discussion we all decided to call it a well-travelled day. We forgot to set a watch...such fools we were. The Black Spears surrounded us as we slept and woke us up with their jeering snickering. After Dundas failed diplomacy with the band, they asked us for our silver ore and information. To prevent them from killing us, we told them what we knew of the Iron Hilt's breaking their contract with Bugman's Brewery; they sure did leave in a hurry after hearing that. All was quiet then on until the Grey Wolf party arrived.
Jacobs, uncharacteristically did not asked to be briefed; this was strange. Increasing my conflict with the man I know. I cannot blindly trust this man now, knowing now what I know. Instead, Belkov recieved all the information. Jacobs did not approve of us saving our lives by telling the Black Spears about the Bugman's contract, why is this contract so important to him
why is this so important to him?
-
does he have an unknown deal with Josef Bugman
-
Does the silver Lady
have a secret agenda for Bugmans
Now we have been sent on a bewildering scouting
mission to the east, separated from the rest of the Wolves just because Jacobs
is angry. I need to find out what is going on, for my own piece of mind. We
need to tail the Wolves and survey Jacobs’s activities. Before we parted ways,
Bralmar spoke with Calista, I am interested to know what he said.
No sign of the coin nor its symbol. I will find you.
No sign of the coin nor its symbol. I will find you.
O.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Bralmar's warning to Dundas
With your decision to trust Ombra. Here is a transcript of a chilling conversation between the two Dwarfs, Dundas and Bralmar.
Dundas being an intelligent and educated dwarf was able to recall the conversation almost word for word. It went something like this.....
You think moving south is a good idea?
You think the captain knows what he's doing?
That's because you don't know about The Silver Lady.
Number of seasons back, before you and these other newbloods joined up with us,
Jacobs had us attached to a warhost of one of the Border Princes.
One night before settling in, Jacobs tells us we have a special mission in the morning.
We were to secure and guard a supply dump and wait for a delivery from our contacts in the empire to the north
Easy work says I to our brothers. Fighting's one thing but when you are given a soft support mission you take it
Only in the morning I notice we travel more westerly than Northwards.
After two days of slog through rough country we spy a redoubt up ahead on the lee of the hills.
Only one of the lads sees a sentry mark us. Seems we are in for a scrap after all
Thats it says Jacobs. There'll be a bit extra for us lads says he
But that's Jacobs' gift, isn't it? Always knows just what to say to push us harder, further, make us all pull together for the cause.
The lads have their blood up anyway and most are spoiling for a scrap
So we storm them on hillside, even though its held against us, even though they are dug in and know we are coming
We lost many good men taking it and for a haul nowhere near what Jacobs had promised.
The defenders were well armed and had the look of hard men. And they fought to the last man
All but two, brothers I thought, or cousins, softer than the fighting men rich merchants sons thinks I or Noble by blows
When all seems lost and with the last of their protectors dead they try to surrender
Well all of the lads paused, you never know what a ransom might be worth
Jacobs however does not hesitate, quicker than you can think he's done for both of them
Most of the lads took it in their stride the captain is the captain after all
But there was no shipment of supplies, no wagons or rations or extra weapons or ammunition.
and no real loot to speak of, a little yes, enough to keep most of the lads content.... just enough
After I'd caught my breath I took it to the Lieutenant.
He was unmoved, to say the least.
"Just two rich bastards less in the world," he said.
At the time, I'll admit, I took his point.
But days later we connected up with the warhost.... or what was left of it.
Seems that Prince Gambon's army had met and fought the greenskin Waaagh in seven days of battle.
They had prevailed but only just.
Gambon had seen enough of war and was headed home.
He paid us off well enough, minus a moderate penalty for not recovering the supply train
Once again it was just enough to keep the lads content... just
Two weeks later we arrive back in Nuln, tired, dirty and very thirsty!
First night back in Nuln the lads are celebrating at the Bear 'n' Plow
I am unlucky enough to draw dry duty. So I'm in the street, keeping a clear eye open
I see Jacobs leave the place.. the lads are deep in their cups by this time.
Something nags at me from the inside... so I follow him
Several districts down and round a corner or two I see Jacobs enter the front parlor of a swanky merchant house
I see a lady waiting for him. Tall and silver hair under a hood. Rich dark cloth.
But when Jacobs reaches her, two words escape his lips.
"They're dead.”
Storming that redoubt was never about securing our supply line.
It was an execution.
All those men we lost, they died so Jacobs could settle some personal vendetta for her. You watch.
Good men will die for some hidden agenda.
The Silver woman's agenda.
Mark my words.
It's all happening again.
With your decision to trust Ombra. Here is a transcript of a chilling conversation between the two Dwarfs, Dundas and Bralmar.
Dundas being an intelligent and educated dwarf was able to recall the conversation almost word for word. It went something like this.....
You think moving south is a good idea?
You think the captain knows what he's doing?
That's because you don't know about The Silver Lady.
Number of seasons back, before you and these other newbloods joined up with us,
Jacobs had us attached to a warhost of one of the Border Princes.
One night before settling in, Jacobs tells us we have a special mission in the morning.
We were to secure and guard a supply dump and wait for a delivery from our contacts in the empire to the north
Easy work says I to our brothers. Fighting's one thing but when you are given a soft support mission you take it
Only in the morning I notice we travel more westerly than Northwards.
After two days of slog through rough country we spy a redoubt up ahead on the lee of the hills.
Only one of the lads sees a sentry mark us. Seems we are in for a scrap after all
Thats it says Jacobs. There'll be a bit extra for us lads says he
But that's Jacobs' gift, isn't it? Always knows just what to say to push us harder, further, make us all pull together for the cause.
The lads have their blood up anyway and most are spoiling for a scrap
So we storm them on hillside, even though its held against us, even though they are dug in and know we are coming
We lost many good men taking it and for a haul nowhere near what Jacobs had promised.
The defenders were well armed and had the look of hard men. And they fought to the last man
All but two, brothers I thought, or cousins, softer than the fighting men rich merchants sons thinks I or Noble by blows
When all seems lost and with the last of their protectors dead they try to surrender
Well all of the lads paused, you never know what a ransom might be worth
Jacobs however does not hesitate, quicker than you can think he's done for both of them
Most of the lads took it in their stride the captain is the captain after all
But there was no shipment of supplies, no wagons or rations or extra weapons or ammunition.
and no real loot to speak of, a little yes, enough to keep most of the lads content.... just enough
After I'd caught my breath I took it to the Lieutenant.
He was unmoved, to say the least.
"Just two rich bastards less in the world," he said.
At the time, I'll admit, I took his point.
But days later we connected up with the warhost.... or what was left of it.
Seems that Prince Gambon's army had met and fought the greenskin Waaagh in seven days of battle.
They had prevailed but only just.
Gambon had seen enough of war and was headed home.
He paid us off well enough, minus a moderate penalty for not recovering the supply train
Once again it was just enough to keep the lads content... just
Two weeks later we arrive back in Nuln, tired, dirty and very thirsty!
First night back in Nuln the lads are celebrating at the Bear 'n' Plow
I am unlucky enough to draw dry duty. So I'm in the street, keeping a clear eye open
I see Jacobs leave the place.. the lads are deep in their cups by this time.
Something nags at me from the inside... so I follow him
Several districts down and round a corner or two I see Jacobs enter the front parlor of a swanky merchant house
I see a lady waiting for him. Tall and silver hair under a hood. Rich dark cloth.
But when Jacobs reaches her, two words escape his lips.
"They're dead.”
Storming that redoubt was never about securing our supply line.
It was an execution.
All those men we lost, they died so Jacobs could settle some personal vendetta for her. You watch.
Good men will die for some hidden agenda.
The Silver woman's agenda.
Mark my words.
It's all happening again.
Hello again adventurers!
Another session lies ahead of us at 3 Rosella Ave on Sunday 9th August starting around 10:30
But first a small recap on what transpired during our last session.. and it was a lot of story, made possible by not getting too bogged down with a combat. Don't worry though. I'm sure there will be much opportunity soon to bash some skulls!
1. I recounted that Dundas and all dwarfs feel a deep rooted mistrust of all elves. Dundas knows about the great war between Dwarfs and Elves that occurred many centuries ago. Dwarfs call the conflict the War of Vengeance. Elves know it as the War of the Beard. A full post will be published on the blog detailing this historic event.
2. You met a new mercenary company that Dundas knew as the Black Spears. They have 10 members at least. Initially our crew met them in a tavern in the small town of Hollin. You discovered that they were looking for work but you decided not to make contact. The less the competition knows the better right?! Later in your travels they woke you up very rudely at your camp in the middle of the night. They made snide remarks about you not setting a watch. All diplomacy failed and you were forced to part with some hard won silver nuggets and information about possible work at Bugman's brewery. In an inexplicable act of mercy they decided not to attack you and left you on your way. Perhaps there is something to be said about the rough brotherhood of mercenaries.
3. You spent many hours of hard toil digging up some silver in an abandoned mine... only to have it taken from you.. Well easy come.. perhaps there will be opportunity to reclaim it.
4. While in Hollin, Callista met with a local 'wise woman'. She purchased some healing supplies and also took a reading. "There is a menace in the east, but your destiny lies in the South West" Homework for Brenda is to research and blog about Grand Experiment
5. Callista and Dundas have decided to trust Ombra with their deep concerns about Captain Jacobs. Emotionally torn Ombra has decided that the evidence is overwhelming and cannot blindly trust Jacobs any more. To represent this internal conflict Ombra has the Demoralised condition. Dundas reveals a conversation he had with Bralmar. Dwarf to Dwarf.
6. when you finally joined up again with the Grey Wolves you found out that Jacobs was furious at you for allowing the Black Spears to know about possible work at Bugman's. You have been ordered to scout east and report back in 2 days. With little choice in the matter you depart in that direction. Or at least you are seen to be doing that.
7. Before you leave. Bralmar is able to snatch a quick word with Callista. This will be a new blog post. Stay tuned!
Another session lies ahead of us at 3 Rosella Ave on Sunday 9th August starting around 10:30
But first a small recap on what transpired during our last session.. and it was a lot of story, made possible by not getting too bogged down with a combat. Don't worry though. I'm sure there will be much opportunity soon to bash some skulls!
1. I recounted that Dundas and all dwarfs feel a deep rooted mistrust of all elves. Dundas knows about the great war between Dwarfs and Elves that occurred many centuries ago. Dwarfs call the conflict the War of Vengeance. Elves know it as the War of the Beard. A full post will be published on the blog detailing this historic event.
2. You met a new mercenary company that Dundas knew as the Black Spears. They have 10 members at least. Initially our crew met them in a tavern in the small town of Hollin. You discovered that they were looking for work but you decided not to make contact. The less the competition knows the better right?! Later in your travels they woke you up very rudely at your camp in the middle of the night. They made snide remarks about you not setting a watch. All diplomacy failed and you were forced to part with some hard won silver nuggets and information about possible work at Bugman's brewery. In an inexplicable act of mercy they decided not to attack you and left you on your way. Perhaps there is something to be said about the rough brotherhood of mercenaries.
3. You spent many hours of hard toil digging up some silver in an abandoned mine... only to have it taken from you.. Well easy come.. perhaps there will be opportunity to reclaim it.
4. While in Hollin, Callista met with a local 'wise woman'. She purchased some healing supplies and also took a reading. "There is a menace in the east, but your destiny lies in the South West" Homework for Brenda is to research and blog about Grand Experiment
5. Callista and Dundas have decided to trust Ombra with their deep concerns about Captain Jacobs. Emotionally torn Ombra has decided that the evidence is overwhelming and cannot blindly trust Jacobs any more. To represent this internal conflict Ombra has the Demoralised condition. Dundas reveals a conversation he had with Bralmar. Dwarf to Dwarf.
6. when you finally joined up again with the Grey Wolves you found out that Jacobs was furious at you for allowing the Black Spears to know about possible work at Bugman's. You have been ordered to scout east and report back in 2 days. With little choice in the matter you depart in that direction. Or at least you are seen to be doing that.
7. Before you leave. Bralmar is able to snatch a quick word with Callista. This will be a new blog post. Stay tuned!
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
A Thief's Shadow Vol 1
A Thief's Shadow - Ombra Vol 1
I have decided to keep a log of my journey's from now on. Every now and then when I have time, for I hope that my accomplishments be known.
My names is Ombra, a member of the Grey Wolves. We have had some new recruits recently, Dundas Parryson (a dwarf) and Callista (a wizard). Both are quite good companions on this little adventure Captain Jacobs has sent us on. We are on our way to our rendevous point, south-east of Nuln.
Our travels have not been pleasant though, Callista picked some mushrooms from the road which attracted a group of snotlings as we settled down for the night; those sneaky bastards. The seem to be quite attracted to these mushrooms Callista found as they attacked her in battle. We dispached them quite quickly.
Today we encountered more snotlings, straight after we killed their beloved wolves when they attacked us. Dundas managed to punch a wolf in the snout, the power that man has will prove beneficial to our cause. Callista's spell crafting still amazes me, she will be a valued member of the team in times to come.
There are still many unknown answers:
- Captain Jacobs says this is a scouting mission, I am content in believing him until is see otherwise. I Do not think the others are convinced.
- The iron hilt legion broke their contract with Bugman's Brewery, why?
- Castillas close dwarf friend talked to Dundas about his fears of our contract, why would he do that and not confide in her?
- Bugmans Brewery is shrouded in mystery, a dwarf named Olaf in the tavern was concerned about it.
- How are these mushroom connected to these snotlings, are they used for reproduction or another purpose?
No sign of the symbol on the coin. I will find you.
O.
I have decided to keep a log of my journey's from now on. Every now and then when I have time, for I hope that my accomplishments be known.
My names is Ombra, a member of the Grey Wolves. We have had some new recruits recently, Dundas Parryson (a dwarf) and Callista (a wizard). Both are quite good companions on this little adventure Captain Jacobs has sent us on. We are on our way to our rendevous point, south-east of Nuln.
Our travels have not been pleasant though, Callista picked some mushrooms from the road which attracted a group of snotlings as we settled down for the night; those sneaky bastards. The seem to be quite attracted to these mushrooms Callista found as they attacked her in battle. We dispached them quite quickly.
Today we encountered more snotlings, straight after we killed their beloved wolves when they attacked us. Dundas managed to punch a wolf in the snout, the power that man has will prove beneficial to our cause. Callista's spell crafting still amazes me, she will be a valued member of the team in times to come.
There are still many unknown answers:
- Captain Jacobs says this is a scouting mission, I am content in believing him until is see otherwise. I Do not think the others are convinced.
- The iron hilt legion broke their contract with Bugman's Brewery, why?
- Castillas close dwarf friend talked to Dundas about his fears of our contract, why would he do that and not confide in her?
- Bugmans Brewery is shrouded in mystery, a dwarf named Olaf in the tavern was concerned about it.
- How are these mushroom connected to these snotlings, are they used for reproduction or another purpose?
O.
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Also watch the blog for some info that Dundas knows about Grungi and Valaya the two Dwarf gods.
and
a small story link to bring you to Sunday's adventure
also here is a quick reminder of some of your story questions unanswered.
Who killed Ombra's parents? What is the meaning of the mysterious coin?
What is happening with Captain Jacobs?
Why did Brahlmar talk to Dundas about his fears and not his close friend Callista?
What is going on with all these weird mushrooms?
Why did the Iron Hilt legion break their contract with Bugman's Brewery? Why would the Dwarf Olaf so upset about it?
There is something in the air.... something is 'brewing'.... all clues point to a little alehouse tucked away in Black Fire Pass!
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Character Profile - Ombra
Reiklander Human - Once per session you may add two fortune dice to any roll.
Strength 3
Toughness 3
Agility 4 + 1 fortune
Intelligence 3
Willpower 2
Fellowship 4
Wounds 0/13 Criticals 0/3
Stance 3 conservative, 1 reckless
CAREER
Current career: Thief (basic, rogue, social, urban) Once per session, you may add an expertise dice to any Guile or Skulduggery check.
Primary characteristics: Agility, Fellowship
Career skills: Coordination, Discipline, Guile, Skulduggery, Stealth
SKILLS
Skills trained: Ballistic skill (1) Stealth (1) First aid (1)
Advanced skills acquired: None
Specializations: Hand weapon
ACTIONS
Backstab
Powerful Throw
Splints and bandages
Nimble Strike
TALENTS
Shadow Stalker (focus) Add a fortune dice to stealth checks
Confident (reputation) Exhaust this card to negate up to two banes from an Intelligence, Willpower or Fellowship check.
CONDITIONS
Demoralized: Add a misfortune dice to all skill checks
ADVANCEMENT
Experience 3/4 (Rank 1)
1. Wound Threshold (Career)
2. Nimble Strike (Career)
3. Fortune Dice Agility (Career)
BIOGRAPHY
Jacobs organised a stout rearguard action that allowed the company to disengage from the battle and saved many lives. Jacobs, seeing Ombra wounded also came back personally and helped him to safety. He was the company's lieutenant at the time.
His bravery at Redbark was instrumental in his being elected to Captain unopposed. Ombra feels a deep sense of loyalty to the captain. This is now no secret to the other new recruits.
Ombra is a codename (real name is unkown to anybody in The Grey Wolves)
He is not a big drinker of alcohol to stay sharp.
Reiklander Human - Once per session you may add two fortune dice to any roll.
Strength 3
Toughness 3
Agility 4 + 1 fortune
Intelligence 3
Willpower 2
Fellowship 4
Wounds 0/13 Criticals 0/3
Stance 3 conservative, 1 reckless
CAREER
Current career: Thief (basic, rogue, social, urban) Once per session, you may add an expertise dice to any Guile or Skulduggery check.
Primary characteristics: Agility, Fellowship
Career skills: Coordination, Discipline, Guile, Skulduggery, Stealth
SKILLS
Skills trained: Ballistic skill (1) Stealth (1) First aid (1)
Advanced skills acquired: None
Specializations: Hand weapon
ACTIONS
Backstab
Powerful Throw
Splints and bandages
Nimble Strike
TALENTS
Shadow Stalker (focus) Add a fortune dice to stealth checks
Confident (reputation) Exhaust this card to negate up to two banes from an Intelligence, Willpower or Fellowship check.
CONDITIONS
Demoralized: Add a misfortune dice to all skill checks
ADVANCEMENT
Experience 3/4 (Rank 1)
1. Wound Threshold (Career)
2. Nimble Strike (Career)
3. Fortune Dice Agility (Career)
BIOGRAPHY
Ombra was a farm boy until the age of 18. His father was a
thief and revealed his profession to ombra when he turned 18, then he
went into an apprenticeship as a thief. After his apprenticeship, ombra
moved to nuln to be an independent thief doing small contracts.
One day, a rogue thief murdered his mother and father in
their home and Ombra found them a couple days later. The only
indication of who did it was an embroided coin with a symbol on it. A
family friend (whom is a retired theif) indicates that the someone in
the Grey Wolves may know who killed Ombra's parents, so he joined as soon
as he could (just before the battle of Redbark).
Captain Jacobs saved Ombra's life at the battle at Redbark village. Outnumbered by the enemy the company was forced to retreat. Ombra was badly wounded in the shoulder and was too weak to retreat.
Jacobs organised a stout rearguard action that allowed the company to disengage from the battle and saved many lives. Jacobs, seeing Ombra wounded also came back personally and helped him to safety. He was the company's lieutenant at the time.
His bravery at Redbark was instrumental in his being elected to Captain unopposed. Ombra feels a deep sense of loyalty to the captain. This is now no secret to the other new recruits.
Ombra still has some some living relatives but refuses to talk when asked about them (becomes quite aggravated)
He always carries the coin found on his dead parents and is always looking for the same symbol.
Ombra is a codename (real name is unkown to anybody in The Grey Wolves)
He is not a big drinker of alcohol to stay sharp.
Thursday, April 23, 2015
The Grey Wolf Company. Profiles.
Karl Jacobs - Captain
A Reiklander, aged around 40 years old. Tall With Black hair starting to go grey. Long drooping moustache. Wears a solid steel breastplate over chain mail and wields a two handed beveled great sword in the style of the Empire.
Yuri Belkov - Lieutenant
A man from Kislev, aged around 35. A thinkset bear of a man with a thunderous voice. Strong Kislev accent. Wears fur armour and wield a massive two handed axe.
Crowe - Grey Wolf soldier (captain's bodyguard and messenger)
Tall and bear chested. Fights with a spiked club.
Jorge - Grey Wolf soldier (captain's bodyguard, company standard bearer)
Bald and unshaven. Wears leather armour and fights with a crossbow or longsword.
Tennety - Female Grey Wolf soldier
40ish and gaunt, long unkempt hair and one eye missing (wears an eyepatch)
A former slave (Slave tattoos on arms and face) Wears leather armour and fights with sword or shortbow.
Brahlmar - Dwarf Grey Wolf soldier
A young dwarf or "Beardling" red hair and short beard (for a dwarf) Childhood friends with Callista. Fights with axe and shield and wears a mail shirt.
Callista - Grey Wolf recruit
A young woman of the Empire. A novice wizard of the Celestial Order. Bright and observant and mentally tough. Wears celestial order robes and fights with a wizard's quarterstaff, and an array of spells! The company's only wizard.
(Dundas Parryson) - Grey Wolf recruit
An empire dwarf. Strong and intelligent with leadership potential. Wear's a mail shirt and fights with round shield and sword (unusual for a dwarf - a reflection of how much some dwarfs are assimilated into the empire.)
(Ombra) - Grey Wolf soldier
A Reiklander. Was recruited just before the disastrous battle at Redbark and was wounded there. Only just recovered. Otherwise a fairly new member of the Grey Wolves.
Feel free to leave any comments you wish to fill in any gaps or help me make any corrections.
Karl Jacobs - Captain
A Reiklander, aged around 40 years old. Tall With Black hair starting to go grey. Long drooping moustache. Wears a solid steel breastplate over chain mail and wields a two handed beveled great sword in the style of the Empire.
Yuri Belkov - Lieutenant
A man from Kislev, aged around 35. A thinkset bear of a man with a thunderous voice. Strong Kislev accent. Wears fur armour and wield a massive two handed axe.
Crowe - Grey Wolf soldier (captain's bodyguard and messenger)
Tall and bear chested. Fights with a spiked club.
Jorge - Grey Wolf soldier (captain's bodyguard, company standard bearer)
Bald and unshaven. Wears leather armour and fights with a crossbow or longsword.
Tennety - Female Grey Wolf soldier
40ish and gaunt, long unkempt hair and one eye missing (wears an eyepatch)
A former slave (Slave tattoos on arms and face) Wears leather armour and fights with sword or shortbow.
Brahlmar - Dwarf Grey Wolf soldier
A young dwarf or "Beardling" red hair and short beard (for a dwarf) Childhood friends with Callista. Fights with axe and shield and wears a mail shirt.
Callista - Grey Wolf recruit
A young woman of the Empire. A novice wizard of the Celestial Order. Bright and observant and mentally tough. Wears celestial order robes and fights with a wizard's quarterstaff, and an array of spells! The company's only wizard.
(Dundas Parryson) - Grey Wolf recruit
An empire dwarf. Strong and intelligent with leadership potential. Wear's a mail shirt and fights with round shield and sword (unusual for a dwarf - a reflection of how much some dwarfs are assimilated into the empire.)
(Ombra) - Grey Wolf soldier
A Reiklander. Was recruited just before the disastrous battle at Redbark and was wounded there. Only just recovered. Otherwise a fairly new member of the Grey Wolves.
Feel free to leave any comments you wish to fill in any gaps or help me make any corrections.
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