A God...Rebuilt
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Come Fly With Me

Chip Can't Fly

March 04, 2012 12:00

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Behold readers and followers of CrIsis, I, Tyvernos, master of the winds and gentle breezes, bring you tales of our journey of epic proportions! It all begins with a mighty boat. I have been working on many fun plans for the one known as Chip. I had been told by Gavin that the ship travels not by wind, but by some other means. At first I was confused but I accepted it for what it was. Still the sails looked full of wind. So I watched Chip in excitement as he climbed on a weirdly painted piece of wood that was smoother than I had ever seen before and rode on the waves while holding a rope. That was when the whole incident with the sea demons went down before my eyes. Hundreds of tentacles rose from the water and shimmered in the light like the scales of a monochromatic dragon as it takes off for flight at sunrise. With the speed of one hundred gazelles I rose up and met the beast with lightning that crackled across the ocean’s surface. The creature let him go and he was quickly pulled back onto the boat. However, the fool wanted to go back. Was this man suicidal? No matter I was happy to oblige him as I am known as somewhat of a risk taker myself. So I listened to Gavin’s knowledge about the boat and wanted to try something based on information given. So I tried sending Chip up into the sky with a blanket using a gust of wind that would blow the stockings off any fair lass in the towns we have been to. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that Gavin while being correct failed to mention that it was not always used and the wind was most often used. So Chip went up and then he went down and then he went down again as the tentacles grabbed him. He also let go of the rope so that was not good. Not to mention his bed sheets are now wet. So people started freaking out and jumping into the water. They are crazy. For all we know they could be pulled down too and from what I saw at this thing called a “ley line” whatever that is; Chip is a great swimmer and does not need to come up for air for a long long time. In fact it was so long that Otto von Bismarck got bored and he rarely gets bored, but he was super bored. Like so bored that he started licking the monkey clean bored. So here we were again waiting. I decided this time that I would take off into the sky like a majestic eagle leaving its perch in search of a meal for its hatchlings. I soared around for most of the duration from the spell. I could see nothing, but I did see Gavin on deck who was the only one praying at the time. That was good of him. I wonder if Otto was talking with Bennu. I am sure he was. That guy gets so self-conscious. Sometimes I hear him at night curled in a corner making weird noises. He’s so shy. Alas though Chip returned to the surface and informed us of the squid like demons and their threats to follow us to the ends of the earth. That does not sound fun at all. So maybe we should stay away from the edges of the boat from now on.

The rest of the trip was fairly uneventful. We had a surprise party for Greldarr. This was fine until one night there was a lot of commotion. It must have interrupted Otto during his prayer time, because he was barking furiously. The ship was making sounds of cracking like it had the weight of ten thousand dwarves sitting on top of its deck. So I donned my armor and headed up to see what the matter was and when I arrived. I may have soiled my britches. We shall find this out for sure on laundry day and in better visibility. It was a towering beast far taller than the greatest evergreen ever to be seen by this gnome in his entire lifetime. The shear size put fear into almost any man’s heart. Alas I must act quickly and so I looked at my group mates, smiled, waved my hands around, and cast my cloud of slumber onto the beast. Next thing I knew it fell off the boat and went back to sleep until it was our watch. This was where Gavin insisted that the rocks on the crows nest were meant for people up there and we could throw as many out as we wanted. So we threw almost all of them. Gavin can throw really hard for such a little kid. It is quite impressive. He also claimed that he was not using any of his mind powers.

The rest of the trip was uneventful till Big Water where we filled up on rations and quickly left. There was also an incident on the boat with some wind ripping off the sail and freaking everyone out, but Chip and I saved the day so not much to talk about there.

After these events we finally made it to Otter. It was here that I got to meet the famous Malkin Falimede and a Ramen. He proceeded to talk about a Captain who would join our crew. I let everyone talk it out since I have not officially become one of them yet. I patiently await my turn. After these talks we had several days to relax while repairs to the ship were made. During this time Gavin threw Overkill a party. This was the first time that both the kid and I had a drink of alcohol. Normally I do not condone such practices, but he seems mature enough at times.

It was during one of our last few days that we ran into some trouble. Chip, Rell and I traveled to a local tavern, where we listened to Rell play the flute. It was then that arrows flew out from the crowd and hit him in the chest. I mean come on his flute playing wasn’t that bad. I mean I can see lots of mess ups but to shoot the guy? This was when Chip and I jumped into action. Rell laid paralyzed on the stage, but Chip cast a cloud of slumber in the room and I followed up with a second cloud of slumber to put to sleep over three fourths of the tavern. That was when we saw our wolfen attackers. They came at me viciously and hit harder than I could imagine. Chip used his trident to shoot out some powerful bolts of energy and I had had enough. I decided to launch everyone to the back of the room with a powerful gust of wind. It was a bit more powerful than I thought as it launched all the occupants save one through the wall of the tavern and into the street. In the mean time Chip ran over and hit the one attacking the now completely limp Rell. After Chip hit him, I shot out a bolt of lightning into him. The wolfen looked at us and shouted something about his dark god and then grabbed a pennant similar to the one that got us in trouble before and then disappeared. We were left with a dead Rell laying on the ground. So Chip picked up the body and we ran back to Malkin’s as fast as we could, where I used a spell to aid Rell back to life. However, it was Bennu who used Otto, who really brought him back. That dog has some mystical licking powers. Rell woke up to the wonderful kisses of a gnome’s best friend.

Best Regards,
Tyvernos
Posted on the 24th day of Od, in the 67th year of the Empire.

Note: The person playing Tyvernos on this game day, and the person who wrote this log in Tyvernos’ voice, was PandaJester aka Gavin.

Picture courtesy of Eflnet.

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The View From the Edge

For those who are lost.

March 04, 2012 11:00
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I think that there comes a moment in every man’s life when he has to take stock of what he has done, what he is doing, and those plans he has made to do things in the future. Some people are lucky, as they go through this in their youth. Others are a little less lucky for they endure a long life before they take this long hard look at themselves.

For me, this happened after my life was over.

I died.

I haven’t yet begun to live.

In the past few weeks I found myself receding further and further from the world. I was playing my flute at every inn or tavern I could find, hoping that something would happen. I was hoping to truly feel something again other than anger. I was angry at the world. I was angry at CrIsis. Mostly, I was angry with myself. I hated who I had been, and I hated who I was becoming.

I hated that my goddess had forced me into this path. Or so I thought. I felt that she had crafted me into her marionette, her puppet, to dance on her strings and lead CrIsis into the path she felt it should go.

So I played my flute and hated everyone who tossed money up on that stage. Couldn’t they see that they were just giving to someone who was dead. They had poverty around them. Even the people who sat there and listened to me play could have used that money more on themselves than on me.

King Avramson even found a pretty young woman who could play the flute trying to draw me out of the funk I was descending into.

I’m stopping for a moment to explain something here: When I say she could play the flute, that isn’t a euphemism for anything. She was a flautist.

Her skill with the instrument put my own skills to shame. I quickly found myself in a contest of skill with her that neither of us actually won. She was the more skilled player, but I had more emotion to bring to my performance, and I bled all of my anger, and shame, into our session.

I think I truly left her disappointed at the end of the night, as I am thinking that she was hoping for the euphemism.

Even there my funk did not end. It seems that you can’t ever vent those dark emotions, because there is no bottom to that well.

I think we might be doing wells a disservice in thinking that emotion is like one. If you draw enough from a well, it does run dry. It gives of itself completely. No, dark emotions are more of a monster, a dragon if you will. When they are born, their fire is but a little thing. Not enough to even warm your boot, let alone roast your person. They are fragile and could easily be snuffed out.

But we don’t ever snuff them out. Owning a dragon makes us feel special. You bring it out to terrify your friends, saying, look, here, I have a dragon. As it grows, you soon cease to have friends. It’s flame is now hot enough that it warms you in the winter. You tell yourself that it is good to have a dragon. Without friends, it keeps you company. It warms your house and your body. It keeps you alive when the world would destroy you.

The problem is that one day, the heat of that dragon will consume you body and soul. Your anger and hatred will consume you.

My anger got me killed.

Once again, I was playing in a tavern. The name doesn’t matter, as it is not deserving of your notice. I died there, but that should neither serve as a hindrance nor a cause for your patronage.

Assassins sent by the enemies of the light set upon my companions and I, targeting the fool in the spotlight first. As their arrows pierced my body, I thought of how much of a fool I had been. I thought of the night I had spent with a wonderful woman at King Avramson’s home, and never once let her be herself. I had her play with me.

I was a fool because I never even asked for her name.

I would have laughed if the poison coursing through my veins would have let me. I would have cried if I could have found the tears. All action was denied me, and I watched as my companions tried, futilely, to save my life. I wanted to yell out to them to allow me to die. Chip and Tyvernos did not need to sacrifice their lives for my sake. I was gone.

Imagine my shock when I awoke in the field and looked up to see my goddess.

As she usually does, she chastised me in the most loving way possible and told me to live my life.

I woke to Tyverson blowing in my face telling me some cock and bull story about the ‘breath of life’ or some such. I swear that gnome will be the death of me…again.

Posted by Rell on the 1st day of the rest of his life.


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Party Planning Committee

Gavin Gets Drunk

March 04, 2012 10:00

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It is good to be at sea once again. Well it was, until I got woken up by the ship crashing into something and launching me and Mr. Monkey out of my bed. He was quite upset and demanded that I go up and investigate, while he hopped back in bed. I will be talking with him later about his laziness. Let’s say he will be doing a lot of cleaning when I get back. See, I knew a pet monkey would be a great idea, less chores! As I make my way up to the deck I am greeted by Overkill, who beckons me to quickly help set anchor. As I do so, I see people looking out the back of the boat and Tyvernos is flying off in the distance. While we are setting anchor, Overkill explains the gravity of the situation. Apparently Chip wanted to wrangle some demon squid people. Everyone was panicking and Greldarr and Karma were apparently already in the water. I sat there for a while then started to pray while the others worked. There wasn’t much else to do. Supposedly they were down hundreds of feet according to Karma. So I sat there an waited and waited and waited and now I was getting kind of bored. I could only think of things to pray about for so long and then my mind would wander or I would get tired. Eventually though Chip and the rest returned to the surface. We picked everyone out of the water and Chip explained that these demons would follow us everywhere. Everyone was really upset and worried, but what else could we do but keep on keeping on. So we headed out.

Well that wasn’t very good, but now it is good again! So good that I am actually having the most fun I have had in a while, at least since Avramstown. I am even learning how to bake. Okay, maybe I am not learning as much as I am helping Cava, but he says I am a good helper so that counts for something. I am just afraid that no one will want to try this cake, especially if they know what goes into it. I’m sure they won’t care as long as they don’t know.

Well all in all the party went well. Tyvernos almost gave Greldarr a heart attack when he popped out of invisibility for the surprise. For the time being it seems as though our spirits are finally getting back to where they were. I have never been so far away from home and I am really starting to miss it, but not as much as I miss Morgan. I can’t wait to see her again soon. Two weeks was way too short. Maybe if I sleep time will go by faster. So I did most of the time. That was until one night I heard a loud crackling noise.

The ship sounded like it was breaking under a massive weight and we awoke for the worse. This must be the foul Kraken we have been told about. I told Mr. Monkey to stay in the room and I prepared myself with my armor and abilities. Once I was done I ran up to see not a Kraken, but a monstrous beast. The sheer weight of it was crushing our yellowwood boat. This was the strongest wood in the world and this beast was crushing it like nothing. As I was taking this all in, I noticed a nasty cloud in the air. It smelt worse than Greldarr’s breath. It took us all back. We were about to fight the most beastly grotesque creature we have ever faced. I braced myself for the worst and then Tyvernos looks at us with an “I got this guys” kinda look and shouts out some weird incantation. A large cloud appeared near the beast’s heads and it fell into the water with a loud crash. It was at this point we knew that we were safe for the moment, but Tyvernos recommended that we sail through the night to get away from it and I agreed.

Things seemed to go pretty decent from there on out. We made it to Big Water to refill our rations and supplies and attempted to find a shipwright. Some people claimed they could do some small work, but for the most part the boat needed to be repaired at Otter. Greldarr recommended we should leave due to the ceremonies of the wolfen approaching and the worship of the dark pantheon associated with it. I was happy to oblige this request. So we continued on through mostly nice seas until a typhoon hit our ship. It ripped our sail clean off. We would have died if it were not for Chip and Tyvernos who took turns protecting the ship through the entire night. However, the rest of the trip remained uneventful until we made it to Otter where Rell was so eager to get off the boat that he dove off face first into the docks. Well, maybe he wasn’t diving and it was more Overkill crashing into the docks that sent him into them, but it was still funny. We were then greeted by an old friend, Malkin Falimede. He led us back to his house where we were greeted by and even older and dearer friend. Laladan! I ran up and gave him a big hug. He gave me one back. It kind of hurt. He needs to watch his own strength when dealing with us mortals. Alas he answered many questions for me about his experiences and about Eledor and its previous owner Tultana. I guess Tultana is dead, but I am grateful for his gift. It also turns out that Laladan is replacing another Ramen named Arkathar who used to protect Malkin. Thus explaining why he was with Malkin. Then Malkin took time to speak with us. He told us of the other ship we wanted to hire and how money has run out. He said that he had procured a captain for the other ship, but we must decide what to do with him. This was a heated debate as many wanted to not have him take on the dangers of the trip. I asked Malkin though if he had a god or was sent by one. Malkin stated that the captain served Horus. At this point I knew that this Robert the Just must be a gift of providence from the gods, not to mention Horus’ reentry to the task at hand. After much debate the group had decided that he knows the risks enough that he may join. I hope that Morgan may be able to aid him when she arrives as well. Together they may be able to face off some things. Now that business was done. It is time to focus on more lighthearted topics. Such as shopping.

Greldarr, Tyvernos, and myself formed the party planning committee this time. We asked that the entire group meet at Malkin’s at a set time for an event. Little did they know it was Overkill’s late birthday party to be celebrated properly. With that we returned with two large barrels of a fine drink, the Clan Kelsu Beer. We also had in hand a specially created CrIsis drinking goblet for each member. That night we celebrated. Drinks were had by all even Tyvernos and myself. I remember that night ended with Malkin tucking me in to bed and saying goodnight. That night I had dreams. Dreams of tomorrow’s hunt with Cava and Karma.

Posted by Gavin on the 23rd day of Od in the 8th Year of King Gedro.

Image from Fort Langley.


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Choose Wisely

Tempest Tossed

March 04, 2012 09:00
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Minischmee,

Let me tell you that time on the sea is a wondrous thing, but then again I have told you that in person many times. After we got resupplied in Seaholm, we headed back to Matilda and started heading around the large piece of land from the port to Otter. We would of had made it to Me’zfii Onh except that during a severe storm that ripped one of sails loose and tossed it to the sea. We would have lost more except our Master Warlock calmed the skies and kept us in the eye of the storm. The sea was rocky but a lot safer then it would have been. I am glad that Bennu assigned him to the mission.

After the storm I was sure that we were safe from problems. I knew the sea and the local pirates (wink) and even was familiar with some of the ports (thanks to our travels) and had decided to dock at the first port we could see. I wish that we hadn’t. Though I am popular in the region for our work with the Wolfen I failed to realize that we were heading to Big Water (you remember the place, great Wolfen women and beer). Well, they are big worshipers of the Gods of Taut (the ‘dark side’ of the church) and when they greeted us they told us that they could provide us with a new sail but we would have to stay for holiday. I like to party like you but it was the holiday for Set. I feared that knowledge of CrIsis in the region would give us away and we would lose our ship and shipmates to the holiday of sacrifice and merriment so we left and headed straight for Otter.

It was while on our journey that we encountered a Sisiutl; nasty bugger. I was certain that there was more then one but I didn’t realize that we were even under attack because Chip failed to tell us as he was taking on the creature on himself and because of his shortsightedness, three of our companions ended up in the water (one being that hot little centaur; don’t tell Mary). I would of dove in with both of my new swords (the others now have a place in my room on Matilda) and would have cut the demon but someone stopped me and we just pulled the others back on board. I am a bit sketchy as to what happened to those as for half of the combat I was dropping anchor and rescuing people. Only Chip would really know what happened.

When we got to Otter, guess who we met? Go on guess. Ok this is a letter so I will tell you; Malkin (the Defiler, well at least one of them). I tell you this adventure has been fantastic. I almost regret sending Mary to a safer place. She would have loved the sights and sounds; the real smell of adventure, but alas she is safe and that is enough for me. Malkin says that a phoenixi is protecting her in Northolme. When the gods say that your loves ones will be protected, they are not kidding. Though I wonder who is protecting you my cousin, or mum, papa or my sisters? While others do not wonder about those that they love at home for what ever reason, I need to know that this mission is not endangering anyone I know who does not bear the symbol of CrIsis.

I never told you about it or did I? The ring, fine craftsmanship and of the most pure gold and I should know, I am a dwarf.

Anyway, not to get off topic, along with the Defiler came with talk of Captain Robert the Just. A while back we talked as a group to have a second ship. The sale of the written Adventures of CrIsis (written by the famous Rod Rambler yes we know him too) is beginning to dwindle and that was supposed to take care of the second ship. Things were said and money was changed in our accounts (mind you it was all good) but we could not afford our second ship but that second captain, not a bad idea. We need someone to captain the ship when we are away from Matilda; someone we can trust. His assignment would be first mate to me when we are there, captain when we are gone.

When we got to Otter, I happened to make a bit of a mistake in parking the ship in the port and hit the port with such a force that poor Rell went overboard. Between the ripped sail, damaged ship and injury we have been here for a month. Most of the time (to kill time) I have done some hunting (I know that I am not a hunter). I have spent time with Cava (I know that Mary distrusts him and though I learned nothing of hunting) had a good time. I even spent some time doing some light fishing. The silence clears my head.

Well any rate,

Get back to work Captain and take care of yourself.

Overkill

Posted by Overkill on the 23rd of Od, in the 22nd year of King Bafag.

Picture courtesy of Fangogogo.


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Knives, Glorious Knives

Stabbity Action

February 19, 2012 13:00
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Minischmee,

I am at a happy conundrum; what should I name the new sword? This is fantastic! I now have four (count them; four) swords of my own. The first one is my family sword, ‘Striker’ and the broad sword graduation gift ‘Hawk-Eye’ but now there are two additions to the family, a demon slayer I think I will call ‘Hot Lips-The Demons Kiss of Death’ (its a long sub-title) and King Avramson’s sword (still cannot believe that he gave it to me), witch I am not allowed to name that is called ‘Greminor’. Now the two new additions are not dwarven quality but they are equally loved (in a relative term; shut your hole, so I love swords).

I bet you are wondering what has happened since my last letter. Well as you remember I got the two swords but I could not figure out what to use them for or what they were all about.

I should have done this sooner but we’d left the city and had been two days out when we decided to go back for the mage (he wanted to learn how a new way to mumble). At any rate, I thought, Why not and most of us agreed. So we went back for winter supplies and to get reacquainted with the king. I immediately took to the local alchemist to find out about the two swords.

Now I am not sure how you feel about elves since the last time we were together and you know that I would rather be with an elf then with a backstabbing human any day (except Cava, I have taken a liking to him, which is weird as he carved me up like a chicken several months ago; amends have been good so all is forgiven) but when we approached this elf’s humble establishment he was put off by my race. Now we have meet elves that didn’t like us but I wasn’t sure if this guy was playing with me or just rude and because I really needed the information on these two swords I played along with his game. Well it was while I was talking with him that a silhouette approached him from behind and to show my good spirit (and to some degree distract me from wanting to kill him) I jumped over the counter to come at the creature.

I missed. Ever seen me attempt to be gallant and trip (almost onto my own sword by the way), yea it was like that; turns out that the guy has a ‘magic’ cat (?). I don’t profess to understand mages but he laughs at my expense and tells me of the great elf that forged the sword of King Avramson. That conceited elf has some serious talent. He forged the sword. It’s a fantastic piece of work. Almost charged me a fortune to explain it too; again I am not sure if the guy likes me or hates me as he didn’t charge me but 100 for the ‘inspection’.

The demon sword was interesting. When we picked it up from the pirates south of New Crests, I didn’t dare use it as I didn’t know if it was cursed. Some said that it had magic properties so I wrapped it and put it away. Now its on the trip.

Four swords; what am I to do? I love them but I am no Rahu-Man (though that would be cool wouldn’t it).

At any rate, I had a dream one night while wondering if Mary was healthy and alive and a impression, a voice really, told me that ‘he’ had sent his faithful servant to escort Mary. I assumed that it was Thoth as I am now his faithful servant (still digging this tattoo and I am going to show it to you when I get to see you). I do not know where Mary is right now; only that she is safe and on her way to Northolme.

At any rate I will be in your neck of the woods soon and may pay a visit provided that it is possible. I haven’t seen any family of mine and that would be great.

Take care of yourself, you bastard.

Overkill

Posted by Overkill on the 2nd of Kym-nark-mar, in the 22nd year of King Bafag.

Picture courtesy of http://flickrhivemind.net/.


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After Action Report: 2nd Kym-Nark-Mar

Spoken quietly to her lance, Humara.

February 19, 2012 12:00

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In conversation with Humara

Our group visited an inn at Tolosonya where I noticed that the innkeeper worshiped Thoth. There we made our plans as to where our team was to go next. We would take the mountain pass back to Avramstown, and then back to Seaholm for a voyage to Me’zfii Onh by boat. On the trail, we took time to hunt, and brought down three deer.

We also took time to relax with the members of our party playing instruments while I sang and danced.

The rest of our trip to Avramstown was uneventful, taking us three days to reach it. Once in Avramstown, we visited with the king and stayed at the palace. The next day, we split up in our different directions to achieve our own goals during our downtime from our travels. Most went to see the alchemist, while another group went to the pyramid. Gavin and I decided to got to the park, where I watched Gavin play tag with the children.

Much to our surprise we were ambushed. Arrows began to fly from two different directions. While I parried arrows with my shield, I made my way to Gavin as quickly as I could, as he too was under attack. Placing Gavin on my back facing away so that he could guard my rear, I continued to parry the arrows that came at us.

When a blow came to my rear that Gavin could not block, I found myself in need of kicking my attacker, which resulted in Gavin falling to the ground.

Gavin pulled a sword out of thin air, striking the one who was going for my rump. Our attackers decided that we were not as easy targets as they had thought, and retreated. I should make a note here, that our attackers were like myself: Centaurs. They were Anubis worshipers, and they cried out that we would fall before their god, Anubis.

The one I kicked, and Gavin struck with a sword, we took prisoner and brought back to the king. Presenting him before the king, he took the prisoner to be questioned.

The king was nice enough to allow Gavin and I to stand watch over the prisoner, but before we could do any real questioning, the centaur changed into Anubis and collapsed, melting in front of us.

We sat down with the king and his advisers. During the meeting, a Phoenixi appeared and declared that she would give protection to the king. During this meeting, the question about whether or not to permit the worship of the dark gods. In justice and fairness the king and his councilors decided against the outlawing of that practice. After the meeting our companions returned from the pyramid and Alchemist, and we were invited by the king to sit down to dinner.

At this time the Phoenixi looked upon the members of our group, with a special look for Cava, and confirmed that he had his own agenda, which I already had suspicions of.

Cava gained control of an Ankh, when he attempted to use it he disappeared.

I looked upon the Phoenixi and saw her in prayer. I decided to follow the Phoenixi’s example and decided to pray to her got, Bennu.

Bennu informed me that he is well, and that I should return my prayers to Thoth. When I looked up from my prayers to Bennu, I saw Greldarr leave the room. Curious about where our priest was going, I arose to follow.

Greldarr went forth from the dinning hall and from the palace and headed toward the pyramid, and I, in turn, followed. But when I reached the stairs, I found I did not know the names of Isis. I turned and asked for help from the members of the party who followed me and Greldarr to the pyramid.

Chip, desiring to help, teaches me the hundred names of Isis. Then I was able to follow Greldarr into the pyramid. We were greeted by a Wolfen priest and a Ramen at the top of the step. The Ramen informed us that Cava had returned. At this glad greeting I turned and galloped as fast as I could back to the dinning hall.

Cava informed us that he had been in Sekti-Abtu, and can return there for refuge with three other members at any given time.

The king then, to celebrate this news and the return of Cava, brought to the dining hall a group of women and men. Each one was a compatible race with each member of the party. The centaur male was beautiful to behold, and I welcomed his presence and walked with him out of the hall. It was not until the next morning when I emerged.

The next morning I went out the market, noting the problem I had at the park with losing Gavin off my back due to having to defend myself, I purchased a harness to keep me from losing my rider during a time of trouble. After which Gavin and I returned to the park so he could continue having fun with the children.

We began our traveling once again on the 25th day of Thoth. We sold our deer. We traveled from Avramstown to Seaholm. After we arrived in Seaholm, we visited the house of Oric Bellode, once again taking time to celebrate our safe journey. Another drinking contest ensued. Chip, in talking to Oric, asked for something called Paper, and Oric purchased 500 sheets. This is something new that I’ve never seen before. Once we have said our goodbyes, we began our voyage.

At Chip’s request, we weighed anchor not long into our voyage. We asked questions about why. Chip tells us we have stopped on a ley line and he begins to experiment on it. Chip disappeared and I sigh in frustration as once again another disappeared in thin air and I questioned whether this one as well would return in good health.

Chip then pointed southwest and said that their enemies lies in that direction over the Algor sea.

Karma
Posted on the 2nd of Kym-nark-mar, in the 67th year of the Empire.

Picture by the amazing Brandrificus.


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Vacations from Life

February 19, 2012 11:00

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Finally! Someone finally talked some sense into the group. It took the threatening of frostbite and amputation, but we are finally going back to the boat for the rest of the journey. Thank goodness for Tyvernos and his long winded speech. Maybe at least this way I can get some sleep and not have to deal with demons popping up in my room. Not to mention the fact that some people love to shove mysterious magical devises in my face while I’m sleeping. I mean I love the guy, but come on dude, can’t I get some sleep in peace? At least Chip helped me out. I heard some others weren’t willing to, but I won’t name any names. Anyhow back to the matter at hand. I finally get to sleep in my own comfortable room. I never thought I’d be so happy to be on a boat. Its a big blue watery road. I’m so excited.

Little did I know that my excitement was just beginning. When we got back to Avramstown we were greated kindly by King Avramson again. That isn’t the best part. The best part was this was going to be our home for a vacation! I haven’t had a vacation since I was born. I can’t remember the last time myself or my family was able to fully relax without doing any sort of business. This is truly a rare treat for me. So for the first order of business, I asked what the most awesome place to go was. The response I got? The Park!

So the next morning I woke up with glee. I was super super super ready to go, but Karma made me eat all of my breakfast and make my bed and brush my teeth and it took forever! I mean, come on! All the other kids are gonna be gone by the time we get there. This is so stupid. She was just standing there saying, “You don’t want to get scurvy do you? Then drink your orange juice.” and other stuff like, “You don’t want the King to think you’re a slob do you? You should make your bed.” Nag, nag, nag, nag. Finally after what seemed like all day she said we could go to the park. It was super awesome. There were so many different kids there. There were humans, gnomes, wolfen, dwarves, and an elf or two. We all got together and decided to play tag. It was funny. The dwarves were really slow and couldn’t keep up with anyone so they were usually it. I was the fastest kid there. They were not able to even come close to catching me. It was awesome! Just when I thought it couldn’t get any more fun, some centaur soldiers shot at me from behind some trees. Finally a game that was a bit more challenging. Too bad though, because those first few arrows scared all the other kids and parents off. It just left my new playmate Karma and myself to deal with our new friends. I got shot a bunch of times, but the arrows didn’t hurt as bad as as others had. I looked like one of those dolls I saw that they shoved needles into back on one of the islands we visited a while back with Bishop Tutu. One weird thing was Karma picked me up and put me on her back only to kick me off less than a second later. She can be so indecisive, but I still like her. At least I do when she doesn’t make me do chores. Anyhow, our playmates left really fast after the fight. It made me sad, but at least we kept one to introduce to the king’s guards. They interrogated him pretty well, but I had to leave the room when they started being mean to him. I don’t like it when people are mean. There was even this fiery bird lady there. I think she was of Bennu and is called a phoenixi. I was still kind of mad about the mean people though. So I left.

When I came back they were done and it was dinner time. Boy, was I hungry! We were about to eat, when the king was asking us about our days. A bunch of people started talking, and then I think Cava started talking. I was getting upset because I was really hungry, but Karma whispered I had to wait till the king started eating before I could eat. So I did. Then Cava touches some amulet and disappears. Are you serious? This guy doesn’t learn. Everyone starts freaking out and starts praying immediately. So I followed suit. I may or may not have eaten some of my food in the prayer, but I think Ra understands, because I can’t focus when I’m hungry. After all, it was a pretty exciting day. So a bunch of people leave the room. Even the phoenixi was praying. I continued to pray, but Tyvernos started talking with his dog. It was kind of funny. It was like me talking with my monkey, but I don’t think he can talk with animals like I can. After he talked for a bit he said that Otto told him that Bennu told Otto that Cava was okay. So we sat there for a bit. I looked at the king and he looked back at us and said, “Well good enough for me.” and so we ate. I may be a bit fuzzy on that last part. It might have been me that said that. Ah how time can mess with ones memory. So we waited till Cava came back. He described all he had seen and the powers that the amulet holds. With that the king called for us to retire. As we were heading out he beckoned in some guests. Everyone got a friend to hang out with. Mine was special mine was just like me. We retired for an evening of fun and games throughout the palace. It was fun to imitate servants and mess with other people. Many jokes and laughs were had by us both. It felt good to be with someone that I could be myself around for once. She seemed to bring that thing that my parents had into my life. I finally found someone that I can trust entirely. We stayed up many nights talking and playing games throughout the next couple days. Then we had a serious talk and some agreements were made. We exchanged names as well. I don’t expect anyone else to understand. It is hard to show others what we have to go through. My time was short with her though and before I knew it the vacation was over. I have now made a new friend or something more in her as well as a friendship with Greminor. I will miss this town and all the joys it has brought me, but my heart lies in Timiro with my people.
Before I headed out I had a short, but emotional conversation with Cava. He entrusted to me two of his lightning arrows. I promised him that his walk through life would not be a walk he has to endure alone. I promise to help him through his trials.

We head out to sea. I sit alone in my cabin writing this, except for my monkey friend, when I feel something. A slight movement.

Posted by Gavin on the 3rd day of Kym-nark-mar in the 8th Year of King Gedro.

Image from the Adelaide Botanic Park.


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The Hymn of Northolme

Northolme- At What Cost?

February 19, 2012 10:00

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Overkill,

I hate the Disputed Lands. Thirty miles East outside of Kadascome through pelting rain we were attacked by Danzi who mistook our captain hearty singing and regular jolliness for an attacking tribe of ogres or orcs due to the shadows of the clouds and surrounding darkness. It wasn’t until I called out in Dwarven for them to stop that the barrage of arrows halted. By then of course, some of us where injured; the chief among them was our guide, Saul. He was dying Overkill. The gentle giant of a man was dying. He had been stuck by six of their arrows and he was bleeding to death. I began to cry as his last breaths were a hymn he knew as a boy. He only got one verse out before passing…

Oh great Thoth who dwells on high
Give us strength from when we cry
Wisdom courage is our plea
That we may be more like thee


Those were his final words before softly closing his eyes and passing.

The Danzi were greatly ashamed by what they did and the following morning buried his body with all apologies they could gather. I could only hear the funeral as the arrows they used were poisonous and I was resting with fever from my own three wounds. To say that the load was not going to make it on time was an understatement. Saul was sending supplies to Llorn. With Saul dead, the responsibility fell on the gnomes, Sauce and Gravy. It seemed that Gravy was having the hardest time with Saul’s death as he shut down, talking to no one. Sauce had his own troubles to deal with; as they removed an arrow from his rib cage the same time they removed the three of mine. He would wake up screaming either from the pain or the nightmare that we were in. Don’t get me wrong, the Danzi are a peaceful people but savage like my father and my tribe. I almost could relate to them but I had become too civil and had forgot some of the teachings my papa told me of what to do when they approached or the signs that you were entering their territory.

Each night they have those who were injured a special milk concoction telling us in their best broken Dwarven (they didn’t know that I spoke more then one language) that this would heal us all. They then would again apologize and exit. Gravy hovered over Sauce every night and would be there when he would scream. I, when I was well, began singing the hymns that Saul sang. It eased my pain while I healed.

When we finally left the tribe, we said nothing. Gravy was still quiet and quite bitter. Sauce was up to his old self but still having nightmares from the trauma. The last thirty miles were very quiet.

When we finally arrived at Kadaskome word that our ship had been attacked by savages had already spread. It would seem that tradesmen had pass down the river a few days before us and had talked to the natives. Word of Saul’s had become a hearty chant sung to a march in some of the pubs. Turning the story of one humble ogre into the battle for freedom from a hundred; it was on day two of hearing the chants and rants that I finally punched a particularly drunk dwarf and threatened to cut off his nose with my special cleaver that the bar got deathly quiet. All eyes were on me including the keeper who had his hands on a bow should trouble erupt. I rammed the blade into the table that I sat and stood on the table. In their own tongue I told the story of Saul; I even sang a hymn for them. Okey, you would have been proud of me, we dwarves are not ones for being good with our words but that day I was humbled again by the apologies of our own kind over the death of one of the ‘monster’ races. The only one who was not humbled was the insulting drunk who I took the flat of my blade and smacked with such force that it knocked him out. After that I spent the rest of the night drinking (my tab was paid by other patrons I found out).

The following morning I parted ways with Sauce and Gravy and caught a dwarven trade ship that was heading to Northolme to exchange goods of wool and cotton. Forever changed by my experience I spent most of the trip in my cabin. We had occasional storms but nothing like the open sea that we’ve experience. Several weeks later we arrived and were greeted by the port master and dwarven army that protected the various ports and seashore. I entered the city being lead by my goddess as to where I should go and donated a large sum of our money to the Temple of Light to a man named Father Olayhe.

The people here worship Belimar, the Dwarf God, and are primarily the Goldenbeard Clan. Oh sure there are humans and the like but every where the eye wanders are a proud people; proud of their heritage and god.

Father Oleyhe wants to know why and where I came from. I have offered my services of cooking and cleaning but usually say nothing. I cry at night in our meager cottage that I bought with some money. I opened a restaurant to supply myself with a steady income and have slowly began to make friends. Father Oleyhe comes by and orders breakfast once a week. He asks about what I worry about but I refuse to tell him as my trip here took a lot out of me.

Come to me, Okey.

Martyr Okey.

Posted by Mary on the 1st of Thoth, in the 22nd year of King Bafag.

Picture from community.wizards.com.


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A Message to the Followers

February 19, 2012 09:00

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It has come to our attention recently that Crisis has gained quite a following. That is why I, Gavin, write to you. First let me say thank you to our loyal followers. We were overwhelmed and encouraged by your support. It brings us great joy to see the masses cheer us on in this quest and it also lets us know that we are not alone in these dark times. I must first make mention of a few great people who wished to be mentioned and have offered us a great deal of help in our quest. The first of which is the mighty Greminor. It is he who has helped many of us with his magics and divination. His kind and giving spirit shall be known when CrIsis has met success in this great journey. I beckon many followers to come visit this wise Elf and his emporium of miraculous goods. He truly is the greatest alchemist on Palladium. Also while I am on the topic, I must mention the benevolent ruler King Avramson his kindness and mercies are only overshadowed by his wisdom. Both he and Greminor are true servants of Isis.
Now let me give word to all the followers of CrIsis. Take heed for the hour is nigh that we may be in need of your help. Do not let the fear of the darkness overcome you but be transformed in the light and hope that the pantheon of Light has bestowed upon you. Take courage that we are out there and we are here to bring hope to the future generations of the world. So might I ask that you take a stand against those that would cause you or your brethren harm and fight for what is right in the light. For we are coming! Stand tall and pray for us, for in our quest we still take time to pray for each of you! The evil ones are in such fear that they attack us in broad daylight, this means that we are succeeding in our quest and they are scrambling in fear. Let it be known that united we have the upper-hand and victory shall soon be ours.

Posted by Gavin on the 3rd day of Kym-nark-mar in the 8th Year of King Gedro.

Image from the Bible Camp.


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Return from the City of the Dead

'Alu, Alu, anyone there?'

February 05, 2012 17:00

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… Zzzt zzt. Krackle… Zzzzzzt.

WHACK

“Can you hear me now?”
‘Yes, Chip, I can hear you. Are you ready to continue?"
“Thanks, Siri. Guess I’ll just keep going from where we left off… I take it from the scattered pixels and faint whiff of smoke that something has happened to the video… again."
“Indeed. It would seem that the engineers in the New Navy Video MeSs department have created a rather kludgy contraption for editing and storing moving pictures. Perhaps you should have upgraded to that skunkworks team working with our SEALs… IconfigureIT?”
‘Thanks, Siri. As always, your hindsight is 20/20. Well, as the beginning of this video-log, diary, what-have-you is now electronic vapor, and, I’m sure, the salient details of it are most likely to be covered by my companions… (team-mates is a bit strong for us, right now, given that I’ve seen better coordination between 6-year olds chasing butterflies than CrIsis currently displays), I’ll cut to the chase. Or, rather, the lock-down. Everyone knows we met King Avramson, raised the Pyramid a notch or three, got mobbed with adulation, and were rewarded with artifacts and feasting… I feel sure that the others covered those bits…

Did they mention the interrogations? I begin to wonder at some of the methods employed by our group to divine the truth. Indeed I do. While I subdued the Alu assaulting me, and others were, in their various ways, dealing with their own midnight assassins, the stirrings of a conundrum were set into motion. Never mind that some of us *cough Cava cough seem to think that the ends justify the means. Or that we would, in fact, gain useful information regarding these servants of Charun… no, never mind the pleasantries exhibited that evening… let us talk about the confrontation. Within our group. A crisis within CrIsis. Gods.

Once young Gavin was disappeared by an Amulet of Anubis, claimed from one of the Alu by Cava, and thrust into his sleepy, weary, and innocent hands, yes, once that small feat had been accomplished, we (yes, even I participated in this abhorrent conversation) set about each other with blame, and a round-robin of assertions were made.

Have we learned nothing?

Karma, our centaurina (Centauress? Just what do you call a female centaur? It’s easy to know when it’s a female dog…) had communicated with her Lance, and had determined that the destination set for the teleporting Amulets was Çynopolis… yes, I said ‘communicated with her Lance’. Apparently it talks back to her, though I could not hear anything said. I desperately wanted to learn more of this… being? But time was against us, and Tyvernos seemed as interested as I… another mystery for me. Just how does he do what he does? The few spells I’ve seen him cast bear resemblance to mine, yet remain markedly different. Perhaps he is just better attuned to this realm. Whatever the reason, I intend to glean more info about his practice during our travels… something strikes me about how he casts magic, and how I might do the same, with practice.

Çynopolis. Yes, you heard that, too. Very astute, viewer… I mean reader. The City of the Dead. The final resting place of all high-priests of my faith. A city ruled by Anubis himself. And not a place one simply visits. No. Not at all. In fact, I’ve not heard of anyone returning from the gloomy halls and fabled crypts. Ever.

Well, until now, that is. But I get ahead of myself.

So, with all of CrIsis gathered around Cava, holding the Amulet that had so recently sent Gavin to the dark defiles of Cynopolis, did we spring into action? Leap to save our departed friend and valued team-mate? Say a prayer to what must surely be a departed soul, along with body?

No.

We bicker. Fight. Cajole and brow-beat. Heated words between our peace-maker and (formerly) possessed. Blithe disregard of a team mate by one of our newest recruits. True enough, I played my role in this farce. Extended it well past the point of reason. Even though I begged, pleaded with CrIsis to let me go, alone, to rescue the boy. I called upon their reason… something I now find lacking utterly. I called upon their devotion to our greater cause. Again, I begin to wonder how committed they all are to such a grand goal. I felt sure that I could, if I acted promptly, go to Gavin and return with him before harm had a chance to befall him… yet still we mucked about, calling names and flushing with anger.

This is not the way. Decisive action had to be made, and with no consensus looming, I took action into my own hands. Took the Amulet into my own hand. I heard howling as I left that room, unsure if it truly was Cava, or the Beast who used him previously…

Bamff!

Into the City of the Dead. Into Cynopolis. Alone. To rescue a friend. A team mate. A helpless and likely sleeping boy…

Glorious! It would have been a fitting death. Fitting, had not the welcoming committee (ten strong!) succumbed to my soporific spell. Without waiting for more to arrive, and taking no time to truly appreciate my surroundings, I gathered Gavin into my arms just as his last captor, a dwarf, used his own amulet and disappeared. Taking one of the fallen gaolers Amulets, I transported both Gavin and myself back to our rooms. We were gone no more than a few minutes, yet when we returned, the disappearing dwarf was taken in hand, and no sooner did we come back than did Rell rejoin us, having used the dwarf’s Amulet to come for us in Cynopolis.

Yes, this confused even me. World-championship ping-pong has less back-and-forth. I’ve seen old tri-corder vids of it waiting for slops from the galley on the Ticonderoga, I kid-you-not.

Finally, reunited, CrIsis returned to bed, while I stay awake until all hours of the morning, recording the latest of our exploits. The remaining Amulets, having relinquished their last mojo, dissolved into wisps of silver-smoke, removing temptation from eager hands, and relics from our inventory of Dark Magics to devote to our church.

It grows light, and even I must sleep…

Until I wake, I remain
Chip Samuel

“Oh, good night Siri.”
“Good ni…”
Zzzz

Posted by Chip in the early morning hours of August 9th, PA 109.

Çynopolis picture by IO9.


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