Greyhawk Journal

Some Gnome Musings from a Gamer

2006-06-18T00:21:00.000-04:00

Found a list of interesting "don'ts" and "can't do anymores" while gaming and some dealt with gnomes. Given our groups experiences with gnomes I thought I would share them with everyone.

There is no Gnomish god of heavy artillery.
There is no such thing as a Gnomish Pygmy War Rhino.
Gnomes do not have the racial ability 'can lick their eyebrows'.
Gnomes do not have the racial ability to hold their breath for 10 minutes.
Gnomes do not have the racial ability 'impromptu kickstand'.
Having a big nose adds nothing to my seduction check.
Gnomes do not count as burrowing animals.
Polka Gnomes exist only in my mind.
There is no Gnomish Deathgrip, and even if there was, it wouldn't involve tongs.
I cannot insinuate elf chicks are all easy, even though you never hear about a half gnome do you?
Gnomes do not have a racial bonus in bobsled.

And what the hey. The first person to tell me one of these before the start of the game gets 100xp. Just because you were checking this blog.

Season 2 Begins!

2006-06-10T12:56:00.000-04:00

I just got a new e-news letter from GENre television going over some of the big new things they are bringing our way for the new season. Sounds like some big stuff is on the horizon. I'm thinking its a good time to be a fan of the Fantasy/Sci-Fi genre. Here are some of the interesting headlines that jumped out at me. I hope everyone finds them as interesting and tantalizing as I do.

GENre Productions and BrothersBlue Studios have entered into talks with the Leiber estate for a possible new series called "Swords of Fortune". It will be set in Leiber's fictional world of Nehwon and its cast will be based out of the fictional metropolis of Lankhmar. Described as a Gritty sword-n-sorcery series painted up in shades of grey instead of the clear black and white morals that have been in so many of the other productions seen to date. Considered to be a blending of deadly action, complex multi-episode plotlines, and also a good bit of darkly quirky humor, the show's creators have hopes that it will be a welcome edition to the GENre line-up.

In the world of Science Fiction Films the less than stellar film Aliens Vs. Predator, a movie that while lacking any real quality beyond high priced effects still managed to netted enough money for 20th Century Fox to greenlight a sequel. The new script is written by Shane Serlano, the same man who rewrote the original script for the first AVP. Recognizing where the primary source of interest is going to come from for this movie, Fox has hired the Visual Effects team Greg and Colin Strauss to direct. To their credit, the Strauss brothers have done a good deal of Special Effects for such noteworthy movies as "X-Men: The Last Stand", "Titanic", and "The Day After Tomorrow". Slated to go into production this coming September and scheduled for a summer 2007 release, 20th Century Fox is staking a good deal of money that the trend in Style over Substance in films will continue.

With the release of their first "Heirs of Destiny" graphic novel, "Vendetta's Edge", GENre has found a popular new character in Sir Thanimere, or Tam for short. In fact there was such a large response from the fanbase that after some fast and heated negotiations with the producers and writers, the single-weapon wielding knight has become the newest edition to the show's cast of regulars. The show's creators only recently let it slip that Jake Busey is the actor who sports the signature facial scar and agressive attitude. It is still unknown if two other popular character's will be returning for a second season, namely Ginessa and Bourgin played by Julia Roberts and Jason Patric respectively. The network and show producers are hopeful that the negotiations will finalize soon in a mutual agreeable manner.

Len Wiseman, producer/director/creator of the Underworld Film Franchise got a fresh dose of attention recently when it was announced that he is set to direct the 4th movie in the Die Hard series while he was promoting the just released DVD for "Underworld: Evolution". He also let out a few facts about the third installment planned for his beloved hit film series Underworld. The third chapter is going to be a prequel and finally reveal the origin story of Lucian. It will also go into the creation of the races and show how the war seemingly eternal war between the two started. It will definitely be a period piece. He confirmed most of the writing is completed on "Underworld 3" and while he will co-write and produce it, he won't be directing it. For all the Kate Beckensdale fans out there we do have some bad news for you. Because it deals with the history of the war, it will focus primarly before her character Selene came about. Although her creation is rumored to overlap with the events being portrayed.

And finally before I forget, here is the teaser for the season premiere, let's hope its going to be a good season.

"For Crown and Coil": With the harvest well underway and eight months of routine built up around them, the homebound heroes have heard rumors that a band of brigands has set to stealing away the hard earned coin of the Prince's vassals and peasantry. Can the companions wind their way through the intrigues of High Court, the machinations of couriers, and a web of greedy merchants to unmask the enemy among their own or will the Coil's Talons lay claim to the Crown? [Fantasy/Adventure, TVPG, Uma Thurman, Jerry O'Connell, Leonardo DiCaprio, John Saint Ryan, Jake Busey]

Reprint of the Weekly Browser Email

2005-08-06T19:25:00.000-04:00

Just as a reminder and storage location I am also posting this here.

Hey everyone,

Sorry I didn't get a chance to give anyone a heads up before now, but better late than never I guess. Just got around to reading all the new little tidbits that GENre has chosen to share with us. As always, there are some fun little facts to be found.

First of all GENre has reported a record year of success on their shows. The various Four Points specials, the Rel Astra visit, and of course the current series Heirs of Destiny have all shown an amazing level of success. Who knows, maybe they will pull down a few of the much vaunted Wraiths at this year's Phantom Zone Awards (dedicated to Genre programming on television and in movies). Of course official nominations don't come out until after sweeps, but we can always hope.

As for other news from our favorite network, "The Dark Furies" (a Four Points mini-series) is well into production and co-star Robbie Coltrane said this could easily be one of the darkest tales ever filmed for television, at least that he's seen. And with the discover that Milla Jovovich has also signed on and is set to start filming her scenes in a few weeks gives an added push for popularity.And how Jennifer Garner is balancing this with the current shooting for the 5th season of her hit ABC show Alias is anyone's guess.

Also - "THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE... or maybe seven or so...." According to GENre reporters Adrian Paul is no longer unemployeed and is back to training at the dojo. He has signed on to play immortal Duncan McCloud in a new trilogy of movies from the combined production team of Davis-Panzer Productions, Sequence Films and Grosvenor Park. The director is the well known Brett Leonard, whose has been at the helm of such classic flicks as 1982's Lawnmower Man, Virtuosity, and most recently Marvel;s Man-Thing. The title is "Highlander: The Source" and is about the search for the Immortal equivalent of the Holy Grail. With filming to start in Lithuania this October, the producers and writers hope to recapture the magical feel of the original Highlander film and infuse new life into this "timeless" store of adventure. All we can do is wait and see. Sometimes its like seeing your true love again, other times its like watching a seven car pile-up. Either way you won't be able to help but stare.

When the GENre president was pressed for information about new and possible upcoming shows he was vague. Though he did hint at two or three possibilities ---

The first is a science fiction series set within the earth system about a group of bounty hunters and news hounds that prowl the system in Strange Horizons. Another is a possible return of the Firefly universe to television and will feature a pirate or smuggler troupe engaged in a little free enterprise on the fringe of known space. Then there are also rumors of a post-modern inspired horror western series with the working title "The Long Trail" that features a dueling storyline focusing both on the blackguard anti-heroes who terrorize the not-at-all-innocents that live in an alternate Old West and the flawed but dedicated freelance rangers that must try and track them down. This strange series is supposed to be warped in many ways, and on more than one occasion it might be possible to forget which side is really the good guys as each of the characters make choices born from a depth of personality not always seen on television.

One other bit of fun news for all interested fellows and ladies --- The OFFICIAL Script for Indiana Jones 4 has been greenlighted by Steven Spielberg. At the moment George Lucas and Jeff Nathanson are making a few tweaks to it, and Harrison Ford has given his approval of it. Sources also sight that Sean Connery will not be returning for this archeological outing (possibly he is afraid that at his age Indy might just find a few of Mr. Connery's earliest films in the explored ruins). Contracts are now being negotiated on all sides and it is very likely that this will be the go that so many fans have been waiting for. If it stays on track, and Spielberg has set aside a block of time for filming already, it could be released in the early summer of 2007 (with theatrical teaser previews probably starting next weekend given the way Hollywood now likes to hype things).

Almost forgot the reason for this weekly reminder, the trailer for this week's Heirs of Destiny. Sounds like our much loved heroes might be getting to the hard part of their little trip, at least in my ever so humble opinion.

"The Hellfurnaces": Civilization behind them and unknown terrors ahead, the heroes must scale the most feared range in the Flanaess in a desperate quest to cross the lava strewn and ash choked waste before the evil that lives here can claim all their lives instead of only one.

A request about Character Info

2005-06-27T11:57:00.000-04:00

Please send to the following email address: harmyn@gmail.com :the following information about your character:

Armor Class: (Flat Footed AC: / Touch AC: )
Classes/Levels:
Hit Points:
Initiative:
Movement:

Fortitude:
Reflex:
Will:

Listen:
Spot:
Search:
Sense Motive:

Appraise:
Bluff:
Hide:
Move Silently:
Survival:

Knowledge (arcana):
Knowledge (spellcraft):
Knowledge (other):

Strength:
Dexterity:
Constitution:
Intelligence:
Wisdom:
Charisma:

Languages Spoken:
Special Abilities:

Feats:
Noteworthy Skills:

Total Earned Experience:

I need to have this information sent to my by Saturday (7-2-05)

The Encyclopedia of Greyhawk

2005-06-12T23:17:00.000-04:00

Hey all, here is the link for the Greyhawk Encyclopedia wiki.
Hope you all enjoy. Please gather all the info you can on it.

http://legendsofgreyhawk.pbwiki.com/

Name the Actor Contest Continues

2005-06-04T20:27:00.000-04:00

Still none have chosen the correct name of the actor selected to play the invoker on Heirs of Destiny. So to help out a bit here are a few clues about his previous work:

If you close you would have seen him appear on Babylon 5, Seaquest DSV, Dark Skies, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He has also appeared in feature films such as American Cyborg, Delta Force 3, and CIA II: Target Alexa.

Please submit your answer soon as the contest draws to a close.

Special OOC Offer for Players Everywhere

2005-06-01T16:40:00.000-04:00

Game Gold Cross Life Insurance Policies for Eligible Characters

Have a character that you’ve grown attached to? Are you facing mortal danger on the cusp of the Demon Web Pit? Preparing to go Against the Giants? Where the Caves of Chaos a little too chaotic for your favorite character little adventurer tike?

Then I have some great news for you, for a minimal real world currency exchange and cursory rules health review your character can find newfound life and safety by taking advantage of the Gold Cross Standard. By paying a standard retainer of $10 you set up the bronze repository account where one copy of your current character sheet can be stored within our premium American vault and stored there with a basic $1.50 monthly maintenance fee. Then in the event of an untimely accident (or act of gawd) you can pay a simple $3 activation fee to have that character brought out in base gear*.

If you want something a bit more “up-to-date” you can opt for the Gold Standard of our plans. The base retainer is $12 for this level, but the base character sheet is stored in the Undercroft Vault and protected by the cunning Dire SHDF, and it should be noted the maintenance fee is still only $1.50 per month. Additionally for a processing fee of $1.50 the character sheet can be updated to a newer version, and an emergency $5 evacuation of vital statistics allows for full resuscitation at current ability and skill and equipped with base gear*. For an additional dimensional transfer fee of $5 all gear can also be updated with the character’s revival.

So act now while storage space is still available. You have peace of mind, does your character deserve any less?

*Base Gear: Clothing, boots, 1 set of armor, and 1 weapon, backpack, 1 small sack, 1 belt pouch, 2 waterskins, 4 torches, tinderbox, and 5 days rations

The Show's Name Logo

2005-05-28T11:36:00.000-04:00

This was something that Ray and I came up with. Hope you all like.

Looking for a Few Good Ideas

2005-05-27T19:48:00.000-04:00

I am always asking about your character, what do you want for your character. Fears, dreams, hopes, aspirations. Now I am going to make a different request of you. Send me your thoughts about what you think would be fun to see happen to the OTHER characters in the group.

Have an idea for Tuor, something you want revealed about Gaylin, twisted thoughts on the nature of Brother Lee, then let me know.

You can send these to me in email format for added privacy.

Its harmyn@gmail.com.

Remember now, I am asking for things about the characters of other players, not your own. Making offers to let all help in the development and direction of the game.

Look forward to your responses.

Odds n' Ends and Bits o' Twine

2005-05-26T18:31:00.000-04:00

Within the Flanaess

Shopping Spree
The coinage handed out to each of the 6 that arrived together in Zeif is 783 gold. If there is anything you are wishing to spend this on, please make a short wish list of what you would like. Feel free to leave it in the comments area for me to peruse and say any ayes or nays as needed. There is a fair bit more value in gems that have yet to be cashed, but those funds are most likely going towards the don't want to die in the worst native desert ever seen or made by man.

Travel through the Eastern Lands
You are about to head south. The elf Gaelin has requested a foray past the woodlands that serve as his ancestral home, Bael has thought that a reasonable request and agreed to it. Also, there are late summer and fall festivals soon to come. Jousting, archery contests, circuses, and acting to be witnessed.

Name your pleasure,
name your desire,
all the treats you ask
under a crimson fire.

From GENre

What do you want to see?
Have a thought, suggestion, or bit of insperation you wish to share? If so, please let me know. Toss out thoughts so we can all see them and get more ideas for future adventure growth. Something amazing about your character you wish to share? Let us know. I am asking for any and all ideas from you folks.

Name That Actor Contest
Did you see him? Heirs of Destiny has added a seventh character to the cast, did you guess the name of the actor playing him? If not, well now's your chance. Who do you think this mystery fellow is. Declare who exactly is playing the magic part of brilliant wizard and you just might find yourself winning a prize. Only the casting director is excluded from this contest. I hope one of you manages to come up with the right guy. Did a good job of making him unrecognizable? You bet, but that should just add to the fun.

Eye's of the Hawk

2005-05-20T13:00:00.000-04:00

First crafted by bandit mages to aid in ridding those who could challenge raiders in a fair fight, copies of these small crystal lenses have seen use throughout the central and eastern Flanaess for more than two hundred years. Seldom have more than a few sets been seen together, but there is a legend that one particularly successful bandit named Madrien of Karzt had a full dozen pairs given to his most highly prized archers. Stories say those twelve could slay any man in the space of a heartbeat. Legend also seem to hint that is how Madrien might have met his end.

Each pair of these lenses is carefully carved from purest crystal, shaped and polished so that they are just small enough to rest on a human eye. Each lens is marked by a small pale blue cross centered in a diamond in the middle of the lens. Their magic makes ranged attacks into melee safer. If the wearer lacks the feat Precise Shot it bestows it on her. If she already does, then the lenses simply provide a +2 circumstance bonus on all ranged attacks into a melee combat. Both lenses must be worn for the magic to be effective.

Moderate Abjuration: CL 7th; Craft Wonderous Item, True Strike (variant), Price: 7,000gp, Cost: 3,500gp+280xp.
House Rule Price: 3,500gp, Cost:1,750gp+140xp

A Time for Every Purpose

2005-05-19T15:14:00.000-04:00

The rain had stopped. Small miracles thought the ragged elf called Gaelin. Taking up one of the few remaining cotton cloths the short elf swabbed away the accumulated sweat and grime from a day he longed to be over. Thunder roared in the distance, the hot quiet of the night would not last. Walking to the water basin to rinse his rags again, he stopped in front of the looking glass. His buckskin leggings were stained in blood, his tunic turned from a quiet forest green into a stinking mixture of brown and crimson from the wounds his friends suffered only hours ago. A sharply angled elven face showed the weariness he felt deep inside. It had been too many years since he had pushed himself to this point. Seeking a moment's quiet in the humidity, Gaelin's eyes began to sag shut, the trance was calling to him.

Twin screams of pain made the moment short-lived. The elf turned back to his two desperate patients. The man on the floor, a fellow named Avaro as Gaelin recalled, was suffering from more than a score of seperate blade bites. The dying man's bandages should most likely be changed again, though the wounds were so deep and grievous that his fate must rest solely on the whims of whatever curious gods might be observing them. Gaeilin chose to focus on the one patient that he might be able to give some comfort to.

Her light cotton gown clung to her body, soaked in sweat and fear. The pain of this delivery was worse than any she could have imagined, worse than any Gaelin had heard humans speak of. Mouthing syllables that could be heard but not remembered, Gaelin cast one of his few remaining spells. As the imprint faded from his memory the elf fell to a new depth of inner turmoil, the Tormentors outside were still blotting out all magic within the sanctuary. The young heiress would have to endure the torture being inflicted by the nether beasts a little while longer. What's taking so long? thought Gaelin. If those two fools don't succeed, then none in the cramped room might live to see the sunrise tomorrow.

While Gaelin cursed his feeling of impotence, Avaro let out a low moan followed by a violent shudder. He passed from the world of the living. Gaelin's sadness at the passing of the human turned to horror at what he next witnessed, a spectral form tore itself free from its corpse and sparing only a moment to glare at those who still lived, it flew into the sky set on joining with the rest of its kind. Another scream from his last living patient.

Her latest contraction sent spasms all through here, the mystically intensified pain to much for any sane person to endure. Gaelin petted her arm, and then mumbled more to himself than to her, "Be at ease Ari, its almost over." Tears were running down his cheeks. Fear? Sadness? He no longer knew which.

Time was up. They were coming. Now.

Outside the screams of the woman could no longer be heard. Tears of the elf no longer felt. Winds from the fresh storm ripped aobut the ruined sanctuary, transformed into a family crypt.

Fortubo's Spheres

2005-05-07T16:47:00.000-04:00

In the golden age of the Suel empire the god Fortubo gave a special blessing to the land whose people had adored and venerated him for so long. With a great command hundreds of special spheres appeared, scattered throughout the empire. Each sphere was exactly one foot in diameter and appeared to be made from molten metal that is constantly rolling about and into itself, yet never breaking its perfect shape.

The spheres came in many colors, but all shared the same basic magical property. When a soul deemed worthy by Fortubo comes within three feet of the sphere and is wearing metallic armor the sphere will launch itself at the armor, slamming back the chosen benefactor. The liquid metal then seems to "seep" into the wearer's armor merging at first, then replacing the original component metal with the newer one. If the new metal offers a special quality or feature the old one lacked, such as reduced weight or greatly increased value, the armor acquires that feature.

The actual requirements for those the spheres "bless" is fairly straightforward. They must have led a proper life, staying true to their calling, not commited acts deemed evil, be wearing masterwork metal armor, and have a line of effect of five feet or less between the supplicant and the sphere. If these five simple measurements are fulfilled the sphere immediately bonds and replaces the metal that makes up the character's armor and makes a further fitting for the character. The magical fitting is so precise that the Dexterity Penalty is reduced by an additional -1 beyond what the masterwork armor normally recieves.

These spheres are known to exist as high quality steel, mindsteel, brasene, mithral, gold, platinum, and adamantine. Others may exist, but these are the only ones that any have ever seen. No mortal cleric or wizard has yet to be able to reproduce this all-but-gone divine artifacts.

Strong Transmutation. Caster Level 20.

From He Who Was Formerly a Mad Mage

2005-05-04T16:11:00.000-04:00

Question -- The Fourth

On what day were you pull free from the grip of your mother's womb? Oddly enough, none of them fall between the 10th of Coldeven and the 21st of Wealsun. If uncertain of calendars and such nonsense a strange ethereal scribe has provided the following knowledge for you: A Calendar for Greyhawk.

Question -- The Third

Should Alteriel ask her father for forgiveness or should she demand an apology from him? And on the same note, if Baelindor decided to avert his gaze from the heavens would Tuor still flirt with comely courtesans while Gaylen is espousing the virtues of self denial to a lass who could not safely leave if she chose to because there is also a monk picking fights with smallish dogs to prove greatest strength?

This specific question is an essay that must be answered with an indepth and complex answer
numbering no more than seven words but be certain to list it with the answers to the boring questions asked by the Fate Mistress.
---------------------------------

Again, answer in the comments section of this post if possible and appropriate.

From the Colorless and Many Colored....

2005-05-04T15:58:00.000-04:00

Question -- The First

If you could be given a gift, a moderate boon of some sort or consequence; what would it be?

Mystical armor?
Greater clarity of mind?
A healthier physique?
A special sword?
Freedom?
A legend to call your own?
The Talisman of Nine Colors?
A Crone's Wheel?
Some quiet keep or manorhouse?

Its a simple question really.

Question - The Second

What was your single favorite moment so far?
Why?

------------------------------------------------

Please answer these in the comments section of this post if you would.

Courier Satchel

2005-05-03T18:40:00.000-04:00

These lesser known items have found themselves useful to traders, diplomats, thieves, and mercenaries all across the Flanaess; but they are most popular in the exotic intrigues that surround the Baklunish courts of the west. A stout leather satchel, 20" x 12" x 6", with a broad flap that ties securely to its base and a long thick leather strap to sling it across your shoulder; this well made, if unassuming, item works a very special magic on its contents though. In its natural state it operates just like bag of holding. However, when a specific command word is spoken all magic within the satchel stops working. It becomes nothing more than a common bag radiating no magical aura. While it is "turned off" the extradimensional space that stores all items previously put into the bag cannot be accessed. Anything put inside during inside must be carried and held just like it would be in a normal sack.

Courier satchels work much like the smallest size bag of holding and can carry the same amount (250 lb. / 30 cu. ft.) but wheighs only 5 lb. If a courier satchel is placed in a bag of holding or portable hole the satchel is lost along with all items stored within the bag or hole and the remaining item loses all magical properties. If a bag of holding or portable hole is placed inside the courier satchel an explosive rift occurs. Whoever is within 10 feet of the satchel is drawn into the astral plane and all from 10 feet to 30 feet take 5d6 fire damage. When the satchel is "turned off" the items can be freely placed inside one another with no danger of mishap.

Moderate Conjuration: CL 9th; Craft Wonderous Item, Leomund's Secret Chest, Nystul's Undetectable Aura. Price: 7,000gp, Cost: 3,500gp + 280xp.
House Rule Cost: 3,500gp, Cost: 1,750gp + 140xp.

Bittersweet Refrain

2005-04-26T13:55:00.000-04:00

The rumbling was felt throughout the warren. Young and old alike scrambled in search of tunnels and rooms that were known to withstand all but the most forceful of quakes. Being dwarves this was a gift they all shared. As the minor tremor died down a feint whisper began to echo along the stone walls. As the strange sound seeped into the hearth-fires it grew. When the fires of the great forge were touched by the unearthly murmur a shriek unlike any had ever heard. Freakish voices screamed in a rage no mortal could comprehend. Veteran warriors dropped to their knees craddling their ears in weak protection. Tears streamed down faces chiseled in battle. The youngest were paralyzed, striken with a fear so great that it could scar them for life. Three of the oldest fell dead, their heart's unable to take the strain of unknown horror. The elder smith Kardun Hammer-Hand was made blind and deaf all at once when his forge erupted in front of him.

Three forms burst from the fire, ash and coals. Only slightly larger than a man-child, their spectral flesh burned with a hatred that seered the core of all living things they flew past. The invaders knew the corridors well. Every corner they turned, each step they danced up took them closer to the exit. When the light of the setting sun was glimpsed by the the fiery trio they let go another of their damning shrieks, striking down all the guards that stood before them.

When wits began to return to the dwarves that still possessed sanity, a call went out for Lord Bolin. When a dozen minutes had passed by and no response from the dwarf elder alarms were sounded. A message had to be sent to the human keep. The silver raven took flight with magical ease, the warden hoped it would reach them in time. As the almost-bird flew away on its asigned task the temporary leader of the tunnels noticed the charred remnants of a stone hand near the entrance. Gazing at the dark omen he began to wonder just how temporary his position might be.

It was a beautiful sunset. The steep hillside had been chosen as a makeshift lounge by the small gnome mayor. His muscular, if very compact, physique and curly brown hair stood out well against the soft green grass he had chosen to stretch out on. Beside him the honey-sweet voice of Kyliki was slowly winning him over in a particularly fierce debate about what a passing cloud most looked like. Her feminine curves and long locks had made more than a few human heads turn, and many of the gnomes back in town openly envied the time that the lord-mayor spent with near-perfect performer. These were the times Glim thought that he could truly grow to love. A beautiful woman, grass tickling his neck, a picnic basket stored nearby, and a play in town this evening. His own private paradise.

Above them the wind shifted for a moment giving the young gnome a full moment's warning that fire was coming. Fast.

Flexing his muscles as he mentally readied himself for the unknown Glim became aware of everything around him. Kyliki felt the subtle change in her companion and began to sing a quiet little diddy that strengthened will and resolve. Dancing over the hilltop the three specters saw their quary and ignited ever hotter fiery barbs. Fueled with the hatred of a thousand damned souls the unholy forms stormed toward the gnomes. When their shrieks met the lady's song the fire was forced back. A second charge, followed by a third, fourth, and fifth; yet the forms could not pierce the protective shell created by the soft song. As the last of the sun's rays fell beneath the horizon the three unknown demons howled one last time in vain as they vanished in a haze of smoke and ash.

Slowly relaxing their guard, the gnomes began trying to puzzle out what had just happened to them. With the sky looking empty Glim took the hand of his lovely protector and started back toward town. Kyliki was too drained to notice the unnatural silence at first, and Glim to worried about her to focus on his own woodlands. With a groan of pain the earthen floor beneath their feet opened. Glim was able to cling to a few brambles and vines and pull himself free. But the young woman was wrenched from his grasp and pulled into the unnatural pit beneath them. When Glim grabbed for her the vines held him fast, pulling him farther away from the lady he had grown to love. Yelling in anger did no good, soon his feet were dangling a full foot off the ground, thorns biting deep into his skin. Letting slip another baritone groan, the forest floor closed back up, leaving only the wounded gnome hanging in the branches overhead. He needed the Four Points.

Savannah was at a loss. Her red hair tied pulled tight, greatsword in her hand, a prayer to Kord begging to be released. She was ready for battle. There was no enemy though. The Druid Valeran had just left, the aging baron had no patience for her this day; not that he ever did anymore. There was a level of hatred from him that she couldn't stand, and could do nothing about.

Sparring helped.

Should have helped.

Squaring off against her trusted second, a veteran warrior named Haig, the Lady of Alderweg had some aggression to work out. The match became intense, each focused solely on their opponent. When the breeze first began to stir neither of them knew, but when it became noticable it was already too late.

Savannah parried aside bits of parchment and cloth, dust was beating up all about the room. Too much dust. With a choked spasm Haig went limp, Savannah made an attempt to reach him but a blast of dust hit her with such force that she was flung into the wall. The unseen forced matched her own amazing strength, holding her fast. She watched helplessly as Haig was flung out window.

Summoning up her own divine might, Savannah forced herself free from the wall and readied herself. As twin funnels of smoke closed in at her, she uttered a quick prayer to her god. A wall of razors sprang into existence cutting down all the unseen enemies closing in on her. As each of the demons were cut down and fell half-formed to the stone floorthey briefly took on the appearance of close friends she had seen die.

After a full minute she dropped the whirling blades and sent word for the watch captain. Calling out for her armor and real weapons she was keyed up, but even that did not prepare her for what happened next. With a thundrous roar all the firepits and hearths of Alderweg keep coughed up molten rock and sulfur, a heat and stench so great that all within had to be sent fleeing into the hillside until sunrise.

Savannah didn't wait till sunrise though. She needed the rest of the Four Points, and she needed them now.

A small golden-haired boy walked into a humble stone room. It was the picture of tranquility within. "Dada?" he asked softly. There was no answer. With creeping fear he asked again, "Dada?" Still only silence. Tears began to stream down his rosy cheeks, but the child didn't fully know why. Looking about the empty room he took another step through the scattered light offered by the open window. Had the child more years, had he known the dangers of the world beyond his home, he might have turned and fled.

Had the archer chosen to release the bowstring a heartbeat sooner the child's first tear would never have fallen to the floor.

Boccob's Bane

2005-04-12T18:30:00.000-04:00

There is a legend told by reclusive relics calling themselves wizards who still manage to hobble down the dusty halls of secluded libraries. They whisper that the greed of a foolish few had brought down a terrible curse upon all who practice the arcane craft, be it learned scholars or debased blood-fueled mystics.

The legend tells of a bookish, if lonely fellow, whose strange appearance combined with a quirky humor ignited the fierce heart of a savage princess. When the wizard gazed upon her primal beauty he was lost to a mighty love, not to mention a lust greater than any a civilized man had ever known. After a brief, if passionate, courtship the duo fled the lands of civilized men making their way northward to her brutal homeland. They road in happiness, the man cared little that he lost the comforts of civilization. He had gained so much more for himself, a woman to love, apprentices to adore his limited power, and shared dominion over a sea of grass. The scholar had blossomed into a powerful man.

Unfortunately, the legend also tells of the gemstones and gold that were found in the tokens worn by the princess, of the wealth found in the horses, rare hides, exotic spices. The wealth grew in the telling among the wizards of his old homeland. Soon those who thought themselves most powerful decided to claim the primitve riches for their own. Savages had no need for such fortunes, those of learning would put the money to far better use. The battle was short, favoring the marauding spell-slingers. One of the casualties was the princess and in her lover's rage a special idea was born. A magical talisman that would spell near certain doom for any wizard.

The now barbaric wizard, fueled by grief and and a bitter need for revenge, collected a score of Cherry Opals. Their deep full red color meant to represent the blood that was to be spilled. Each of the precious stones was embued with the same power. Twice per day they can create an field of null magic radiates out 10 feet in all directions, cancelling the effects of any spell or item that enters it. Each use lasts for a single hour, and once activated there is no way to dampen its effect; the duration must be completed. Most items stones were mounted in necklaces, though some have been concealed in crowns, anda few were made to adorn armbands. But their power never changes, they all project the same anti-magic effect designed to neutralize the power of wizards.

Strong Abjuration Aura. CL12. Feats: Craft Wondrous Items. Spells: Anti-Magic Field. Price: 57,600gp. Cost: 28,800gp + 2,304 xp.

Whims of Nature

2005-04-11T20:35:00.000-04:00

Standing with wreckless grace within the cramped confine of the crow's nest a wild haired youth whose tanned copper skin told of his length on board shouted to the ship's first mate, "Sail ahead sir! Square cut!" Then with a final below, "Only a quarter unfurled!"

Hearing the crewman's words made the mate spin about. The damned little fool had said that his golden toy would be ahead and there it was. The Desedra, out from Oakheart six days past. Without bothering to ask his smallish captain for orders, it had become abunduntly clear over the past five months that the captain never wanted to be bothered with actual nautical details. Within moments the Ambercrest, the pirate ship's name this week, was cutting through the Solnor Ocean with a grace and speed only a sailor could truly admire.

The ships were closing fast, boarding parties were being called out, hooks and ropes set into place. Archers and slingers began to take their place at deck, rail, and rigging. The pirates were poised for success. Less than five hundred feet remained between the charging warship and its prey when a quiet voice, spoken with such tone as to give it a singularly unnatural and unpleasant voice, "Turn about full sail, drop anchor to bring us about with all haste." Turning towards the ships headsman, "Take your axe to the line cut free the anchor when the job is done." The crew stared on in shock.

"But sir-"

"No backtalk ye scurvy dawg. DO IT NOW!" Then regaining his diminuitive composure, "They lost the toy I wanted."

With a wave of his hand to the crew the mate gave a resigned call, "You heard the captain boys. Swing us hard about!" The twin half-ogres on crew threw out the anchor as the words left the mate's mouth.

When the great iron weight bit home in the seabed the crew was not fully ready. If not for the scrambling of a few quick fellows, three archers would have been lost to the blue water beneath. Wood groaned under the stress of the harsh maneuver, but with less than eighty feet between them the Ambercrest had shift a full ninety degrees and with the fall of a headsman's axe began to sail under full sheets heading away from the rich prize.

As the two ships seperated the crew of brigands watched the merchantman fade into the background, they all shared the same thought. This wasn't going to last much longer. Things were going to change soon. They could feel it in their bones.

Peering out the the small porthole the glazed eyes of the Desedra's rotting captain watched his prize sail off, a cold fury was burning in his belly. The crew would be hungry another day.

A Price Too High.

2005-04-11T13:56:00.000-04:00

They were twins after a fashion. Two identical vessels. Two flesh and blood bodies. Each with a sweet voice, each with a piercing gaze. Two forms that were identical in charms and wiles, but only one soul between them. Like two starving tigresses each was doomed to lash out and steal away what few morsels of life she could before the enemy attacked again. Some thought it a tragedy. Others watched, laughing at what their warped image of the multiverse called a comedy.

Had they always been that way? Born under the full moon of an insane uncle? Possibly. Or perhaps one found the kiss of power a lover whose black lust was too great to resist and signed the pact that can only be signed once. Only after the jug is empty does it miss the cooling embrace of the chilled wine; so to the living form and the soul it protects. Now a beautiful young woman felt empty and frightened.

She was struggling to rid herself of guilt and regret and there was only one thing left now. Claim the last soul as her own. Was it wrong? Maybe. Was it necessary? It had to be. She had once told her that she would do anything to protect her, a scared child was about to collect on a fool's oath.

Time was an enemy to both of fates puppets though. The longer the two pulled at the last strand of divinity between them the more frayed it would become. If one did not win soon enough, both might die and fade into the primal ether, lost to even the most potent of men's magic. No, it was better that one should live than both should die. Some small comfort. The frightened girl would not forget her sister. A candle would be lit on their shared birthday in each of the coming years to honor a sacrifice made in love. Yes, it would have to be in love. Otherwise it would be wrong.

Tinkering with Hobgoblins

2005-04-10T10:57:00.000-04:00

I've decided that I like the race hobgoblin. Actually I like the whole trio of goblin races - Gob, Hob, and Bug. And Hobgoblins do cost 1 level already. But I am going to do one more thing to them that I like. They are going to have a +2 bonus to strength as well from now on. Am am also going to grant them DR 1/- (note, this stacks with dr gained from any other source). This is to represent the tough nature of the hobgoblin and the very spartan-like way they breed more of their own. This fits them nicely I think and makes the +1 ECL a little easier to accept.

Hobgoblin's Special Traits
+2 Strength, +2 Dexterity, +2 Constitution
Darkvision 60 feet
Damage Resistance 1/--
+4 racial bonus on Move Silently Checks
Automatic Languages: Common, Goblin
Favored Class: Fighter
Level Adjustment: +1

Just wait until the are found.

Special Armors

2005-04-09T23:40:00.000-04:00

What follows are two items that I have given a little thought to recently. Thought I would share them with you. Let me know what you think.

Maiden's Weave Armor

There are rare elf maidens, who upon hearing their one true love is going off to battle, set about preparing a special gift for him. A suit of light armor crafted from her own hair's cuttings. As they weave the strands into cables and then cables into layers forming armor, they treat it with a series of special oils, natural scents, and their falling tears, all while quietly singing the lineage of his family asking those who had gone before to watch over the brave warrior. The result is a set of armor that does not radiate any normal form of magic, but still grants special bonuses to any elf that wears it.

The armor is treated as light, having an arcane spell failure of only 10%, an armor bonus of +4, and a maximum dexterity bonus of +8. This makes the armor quite exceptional since it is always considered masterwork and capable of enchantment. However, it only works for elves and is never found on the open market for sale. It must be given as a gift or found.

Widow's Weave Armor (magical)

This armor is a harsh parody of the fabled Maiden's Weave. Some elves blame the cruel nature of this item on Orc Fetish Shamans. Others point to bald-pated humans who practice rites praising the dark powers, be it Nerrul, Erythnul, or Apkieran. A few even claim that an ancient order of Necromancers who claim mastery over death itself are to blame, but that would mean that worse nightmares walk the shadows than even the most insane have dreamt of.

Widow's Weave is made by pulling the hair out of a captured maiden's scalp while she still lives. After the first cruel task is competed it is said that the instructions turn truly fantastic. The hairs are knitted together by the maiden's own tortured hands, albeit controlled in the matter of an expert marionette and bathed in her own bottled screams. All hairs are used save two, and they seem to grow as needed until the suit is completed. Then the suit is given a wash in her own blood while she watches unable to blink. Once bled out the body is kept for other dark uses. When the blood has dried onto the armor, it is washed in a sickly black brew to complete the basic process. After that, the remaining enchantments seem almost mundane.

Widow's Weave is considered +3 armor (total bonus of +7) and bestows a small selection of special abilities. The least impressive power with the suit is a minor Favored Enemy bonus (+2) it bestows upon its wearer that is focused solely on elves and stacks with any similar bonus the wearer may already have. Next the armor grants a spell-like ability identical to Death Knell usable twice per day. The third boon of the armor allows the wearer to use a touch attack once per day that works exactly the same way as the Death Domain special ability (see PHB p186). The last two abilities of this armor deals with undead. No undead may attack the wearer of this armor unless it succeeds at a Will save - DC19, unless the wearer commits an attack on the undead (see invisibility, PHB p245 for guidelines on what constitutes an attack). This ability supercedes the undead's normal immunity to enchantment and charm effects. The last ability of the armor is to grant a +4 bonus on all Fortitude saves to recover from negative energy levels. This armor is considered evilly aligned, if any non-evil character wears it they will suffer 2 negative levels.

Strong Necromantic Aura. CL11, Feats: Craft Magic Arms and Armor, Evil Brand or Thrall to Demon. Spells: Death Knell, Death Ward. Price 71,000 gp. Cost: 35,500 + 1,840xp.

Test

2005-04-06T22:53:00.000-04:00

This is just a test.