tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52787719858381237732024-03-13T15:47:52.915-04:00THE DUNGEON MASTER'S REALMA journey through worlds of CRPGsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-83733118033260044872012-09-06T12:53:00.000-04:002012-09-06T12:53:15.460-04:00School and Other Interferences!It's been about a month since my last post here. I'm still here, but I have just been really busy with school. It's my final semester in college, and I have five heavy workload classes that are keeping me jumping.<br />
<br />
Eventually, I will finish Champions of Krynn (didn't think it would take this long, honestly). Stay tuned.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-50402807873575440542012-08-02T16:23:00.002-04:002012-08-02T16:25:11.552-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: WAREHOUSES<i>Note: I've been quite busy this Summer, so I apologize for the lack of updates to the page. I'm still here, though, and the adventure will continue. This particular entry will be a short one, though.</i><br />
<br />
When we last left the party, they had discovered a group of evil warriors who had been meeting at the local inn. They busted in, killed them all, and found a note that revealed they had been foolishly doing exactly what the enemy had wanted the whole time.<br />
<br />
A quick decision was made to leave the inn. The party headed out the front door, despite the confused looks of the innkeeper. It would only be a matter of time before someone had found what had happened up in the inn, and the party had no desire to wait around for that to happen.<br />
<br />
As the party approached the docks, they suddenly heard a woman scream!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLU85NBYBwGPBvlTb5R8A-DxwxiFBMPaYFNR9DYoZ-NjNjizV7q4GzNr2uPo5aBxoQqD0Ae3uKYnVwD9bGZUbzZAdImH85g-Wjeu5g4yO7GwnTa6IAsU8CgU2Pyg1XcCO9POfsIToD08/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLU85NBYBwGPBvlTb5R8A-DxwxiFBMPaYFNR9DYoZ-NjNjizV7q4GzNr2uPo5aBxoQqD0Ae3uKYnVwD9bGZUbzZAdImH85g-Wjeu5g4yO7GwnTa6IAsU8CgU2Pyg1XcCO9POfsIToD08/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That can't be a good thing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even in a hostile environment, the party could not ignore the call for help. They bolted immediately toward the source of the sound. Their feet beat hard upon the stone road as they hurried their pace.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, they turned a corner and ran straight into a patrol of Minotaurs...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj095Wd_Db5zFr4uL-PKlB1ppCo6O-wuomVPoFk3BCBdh1Yo9HfzsUGhUO5mRNPYpNPL04C0gbSpOXuMPNQ-ExvzwUO5kaC0leQDfnc100yjwfyMzJKEOOuMe1NffqlWrOE_K38WDYtJI4/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj095Wd_Db5zFr4uL-PKlB1ppCo6O-wuomVPoFk3BCBdh1Yo9HfzsUGhUO5mRNPYpNPL04C0gbSpOXuMPNQ-ExvzwUO5kaC0leQDfnc100yjwfyMzJKEOOuMe1NffqlWrOE_K38WDYtJI4/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is no option to "Soil Pants," so I guess the party will "Parlay."</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Minotaurs shouted at the party to stop and demanded to know why they were out past the posted curfew. Kavina Do'Arden pushed Lord Benjamin aside, knowing that if she let the Solamnic Knight do the talking, his pride might get the whole party killed.<br />
<br />
Instead of confronting them, she spoke to them in soft apologetic tones, being careful to avoid gazing directly at the Minotaurs for fear they would attack her. She claimed that the party had just left a tavern and had managed to get lost.<br />
<br />
Feeling that the prey wasn't worth the effort, the Minotaurs screamed at them to get off the streets and pushed them aside. They headed further into the city in search of someone who might oblige them with a fight. The party let out a sigh of relief as Lord Benjamin said: <i>"We should have dealt with them directly."</i> He clearly didn't like appearing meek in anyone's eyes. Kavina told him to put his pride aside. Someone was in danger.<br />
<br />
The party continued off in the direction that they had heard the scream.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB53_7bhdsiS5197pxUjFtnV8v9jXcV3-TLPfjZ6FZrOmqU5pelD1skCtTXr1YYPWP2vJEFOPnwAzT0kotlu_hWoYljouyZapyZmHB73BzMbKwJ5sL5OQ6H4vevfDJXIw-43GbM3UC_38/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB53_7bhdsiS5197pxUjFtnV8v9jXcV3-TLPfjZ6FZrOmqU5pelD1skCtTXr1YYPWP2vJEFOPnwAzT0kotlu_hWoYljouyZapyZmHB73BzMbKwJ5sL5OQ6H4vevfDJXIw-43GbM3UC_38/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmmm....what do you suppose they're up to?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another scream brought them to the edge of the docks. Warehouses overlooked the water, casting dark shadows across the road. In the moonlight, the party made out the shape of a woman being dragged by a group of Minotaurs into one of the warehouses.<br />
<br />
Drawing weapons, the party headed off after her. Whatever was happening, the party was sure that the Minotaurs weren't the good guys in the situation.<br />
<br />
The party slipped into the warehouse behind the group of Minotaurs. Screams echoed from inside, coming from every direction. The party attempted to proceed with stealth in order to keep from drawing attention from themselves...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB61sJ8qynwpdB-hwbEQ71Qr92R2KcKIaBIisRSUQUjM5dhkrfPO5CMHttyHbQqIUxLUEUBtqA9cPC8829-zehfNh1OQMHqoxG8Mfh5n1VF7M_N1sIBJqWcKfGIo2U2FpnVrHgQu8mYvw/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB61sJ8qynwpdB-hwbEQ71Qr92R2KcKIaBIisRSUQUjM5dhkrfPO5CMHttyHbQqIUxLUEUBtqA9cPC8829-zehfNh1OQMHqoxG8Mfh5n1VF7M_N1sIBJqWcKfGIo2U2FpnVrHgQu8mYvw/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oops.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
...but they failed miserably.<br />
<br />
Minotaurs came out of the darkness with weapons slashing. Lord Benjamin, glad to finally defend his honor, led the charge as the party engaged them. The sound of clashing steel nearly became deafening.<br />
<br />
It was over in a matter of moments. The Minotaurs had underestimated their opponents. In their overconfidence, they hadn't taken the party seriously, and only at the end did they realize how much danger they had truly discovered. As the last of the Minotaurs fell, the party turned toward the woman who was standing in the shadows.<br />
<br />
She gasped out a quick thanks, and then slipped a ring on her finger. Right in front of the party, she disappeared from sight!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MI1MOmPiaItQ4S6Z9brtKfYDmDVxKO7mbtHG3D8aAKb7QgDa-S6YKBaZzAhF0Wj9RGDyNXOBBVELb9OAkuUasIwhxaCyRtLumW3TwTmZoraBbxT9hWhAOWSwPtEBy710_CLsYQDjZXA/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MI1MOmPiaItQ4S6Z9brtKfYDmDVxKO7mbtHG3D8aAKb7QgDa-S6YKBaZzAhF0Wj9RGDyNXOBBVELb9OAkuUasIwhxaCyRtLumW3TwTmZoraBbxT9hWhAOWSwPtEBy710_CLsYQDjZXA/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this normal?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As she brushed past them, they heard her say: <i>"Meet me at the end of the South Pier!"</i> Her footsteps grew very faint as the party scratched their heads.<br />
<br />
So far, they hadn't been very fond of this city...<br />
<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: Will the party get ambushed on the South Pier? Tune in and find out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i> </i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-21674066455937300222012-07-05T13:50:00.002-04:002012-07-05T16:33:13.647-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: STREETS OF SANCTIONStill reeling from the death of their previous commander, Sir Karl Gaardsen, the party headed back to the Solamnic Knight outpost. Even though they had done a good thing by helping Tanis free the prisoners being kept by the prison lord in Neraka, nothing could wipe away the pain of that loss.<br />
<br />
When they returned to the outpost, they were told that they were just in time to attend the funeral services being held for Sir Karl. During the service, each member of the party spoke kind words about the former commander, and how each of them would continue to carry on the fight against the evil forces that worked to enslave all of Krynn.<br />
<br />
For a fleeting moment, Thaddeus Durin was sure he had seen Maya at the funeral, but when he went to look for her, she was gone.<br />
<br />
The new commander of the outpost approached and told the party that the work they had started desperately needed to be finished. Evil was moving across the land, and unless it met with resistance, it would spread its vile hand like a shadow and corrupt everything.<br />
<br />
The ogre base still needed to be located, he told them. It also seemed that a lot of clues had pointed to something going on in the city of Sanction.<br />
<br />
Feeling that they hadn't had much luck locating the Ogre Base, the party decided to head out to the city of Sanction and investigate what was happening. The trip took them more than a day, as they wound through treacherous mountain passages and eventually found the city at the base of several ominous volcanoes.<br />
<br />
Upon entering the city, they noticed almost immediately that a large number of Minotaurs were roaming the docks. Most of the townspeople kept their distance from the large creatures, and the party decided that it was probably wise if they also headed in another direction.<br />
<br />
As they made their way through the city streets, Thaddeus Durin made a startling discovery...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaVwj19L-la-phdNbXCImXWJYnzEZwKvz6Vqp7qZglcubUVKcOiz1KutDIJxwO9dQC96AvkhZ87SGcemULAxauC8MuyvtwoTv-o_UFX8lYVqQ-RQWwE7M7g0anICy1pWNbO8DRYvEpyqs/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaVwj19L-la-phdNbXCImXWJYnzEZwKvz6Vqp7qZglcubUVKcOiz1KutDIJxwO9dQC96AvkhZ87SGcemULAxauC8MuyvtwoTv-o_UFX8lYVqQ-RQWwE7M7g0anICy1pWNbO8DRYvEpyqs/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You probably left it in your other pocket. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A pouch of his steel pieces was missing. He mentioned that he had counted them just prior to entering the city; because he was hoping to stop at a magical shop and browse their wares. He suggested that the party turn around and see if they could locate where he dropped it. Reluctant, the party agreed and helped him look for his lost pouch of coins.<br />
<br />
While searching around town, Tamera Beldon suddenly felt a tug on one of her equipment bags. She spun around quickly and caught the arm of a shady looking thief who had his hand firmly inside her bag. She twisted his arm as the party gathered around him.<br />
<br />
He begged to be let go. He offered information in return for his release. The party was skeptical.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphldJjm7j16DhlnDjPo8OZUixu5QitDBM39juCwv_tUAVAr-l9aYjQTCc31Vh4lXWB0z3aRUSTLohhaeRJKvGnP-f5hPxcLln5_M8WI8tuJOFYTUcz2MXiWxSZUBEUuIMFiPx54As0e4/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphldJjm7j16DhlnDjPo8OZUixu5QitDBM39juCwv_tUAVAr-l9aYjQTCc31Vh4lXWB0z3aRUSTLohhaeRJKvGnP-f5hPxcLln5_M8WI8tuJOFYTUcz2MXiWxSZUBEUuIMFiPx54As0e4/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry, that's not the answer we were looking for. The correct answer was "Cheeseburger."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He informed them that evil troops had a headquarters in the inn located in the southeast corner of the city. The party pressed him for more information, but he broke free of Tamera's grasp and ran away, disappearing into the crowd. <br />
<br />
The party decided to head to the southeast corner of town and check out the inn. Maybe they could deal with the "evil troops" that were hiding there. Thaddeus Durin agreed, deciding that looking for his coins was now a waste of time, given that the thieves seemed to be openly operating in Sanction. The party secured all loose bags before continuing.<br />
<br />
Quickly, the party made their way to the southeast corner of town. On the way there, they came across a large bridge that stretched over a river of running lava. Curious as to where it went, the party started to cross it...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGeDzwQyDfWqc387ji5dvy_J9s3jZIE4pMPUqFmNUHs_PP-9XGg5lFg9IQpxsyU-phiuMLBuiOGT-9yDia45dl5HoBLHj2WFblVQ0K1EXOgrY2y-OKgVDm-AJpPeC3bCy_qZQWub7rVI/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGeDzwQyDfWqc387ji5dvy_J9s3jZIE4pMPUqFmNUHs_PP-9XGg5lFg9IQpxsyU-phiuMLBuiOGT-9yDia45dl5HoBLHj2WFblVQ0K1EXOgrY2y-OKgVDm-AJpPeC3bCy_qZQWub7rVI/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you think the bridge over lava is made of wood? Because, that would just be dumb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Standing at the far end of the bridge, a group of Draconians stood guard. The party stopped in their tracks and discussed their options. They could attack the Draconians, or they could turn back.<br />
<br />
Not knowing what was beyond the Draconians, the party decided to be wise and back away without drawing attention to themselves. They made a mental note to return later once they had gotten more information. Besides, they wanted to head toward the inn and deal with whatever was there first.<br />
<br />
It didn't take them long to locate the inn. They stepped in and were greeted by a balding man standing behind a counter.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzl0uVYZgaXnM2YOcDiH16QOHnyKsnnnsT2Wr0HtW-XdkGYVkprPBg_FoRlG3ui5u4elTAxMFEegDr3oVDTacKI4vvqnx6v77AQbImsiboXUXgflvPV3G0mS3fG-fxjlE9zLYe3imueJE/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzl0uVYZgaXnM2YOcDiH16QOHnyKsnnnsT2Wr0HtW-XdkGYVkprPBg_FoRlG3ui5u4elTAxMFEegDr3oVDTacKI4vvqnx6v77AQbImsiboXUXgflvPV3G0mS3fG-fxjlE9zLYe3imueJE/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sure, if you want to make the clues easy...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They paid for the room, and the innkeeper told them that they could take any room they wanted, except for the one at the north end of the hall. He told them to keep away from that one.<br />
<br />
As the party headed up the stairs, they felt confident that the innkeeper had given them the clue that they needed to find the trouble in the inn. Instead of going to their own room, they headed straight down to the north end of the hall.<br />
<br />
Once there, they found the door locked. Kavina Do'Arden suggested that they break it down. When someone in the party pointed out that they'd be breaking the law, Kavina said: <i>"We're either wrong or we're right, but we're not going to find out by waiting out here in the hallway." </i><br />
<br />
She gave the door a solid kick and the door splintered under her boot.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSBbEBqCUk5ZsukvSd9rdWuE1Wi8j3wHTh_mxiSY7RZYw5aQtWqDLwkxZqW04wHXcCgP27x3kxki81eudPSnfLyR0p7Cnmd4qh02TaKzipuS9JHGuQjt14-kDkfofCqW8RxTzpjSej_k/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSBbEBqCUk5ZsukvSd9rdWuE1Wi8j3wHTh_mxiSY7RZYw5aQtWqDLwkxZqW04wHXcCgP27x3kxki81eudPSnfLyR0p7Cnmd4qh02TaKzipuS9JHGuQjt14-kDkfofCqW8RxTzpjSej_k/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza delivery!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A dark elf jumped up from his chair and drew a weapon. Around him, a group of fighters got to their feet. <i>"What do you want?"</i> the dark elf demanded.<br />
<br />
The party told them to throw down their weapons and surrender. There was no need for bloodshed.<br />
<br />
The dark elf laughed and told them: <i>"I've had about enough of you."</i> He snapped his fingers and ordered his men to attack.<br />
<br />
Fully prepared for combat, the party met the fighters head on. Swords swung wildly as spells began to erupt and light up the room. It did not take the enemy forces long to realize that they were outmatched. The dark elf and a few of his cohorts attempted to escape as the party pressed in on them, but they were quickly cut down before they could leave the room.<br />
<br />
Janessa Waylan suggested that the party not stick around for long. If anyone came looking for the fighters, they would not be happy to discover them all dead.<br />
<br />
Tamera quickly searched the body of the fallen dark elf, and found a note. She read it aloud:<br />
<br />
<i>"The plan has to be carried out in stages. Stage One, which is already complete, was to threaten various small areas to the north and get the good armies to begin a consolidation of their forces. We were fortunate to find a rather hapless party that we were able to use to pass the false information to their leaders. It was pure chance that they were sent after Caramon when he was captured in Throtl. We couldn't have planned better for our purposes. We left clues behind to lead the group to Gargath, Jelek and Neraka. This gave us time to complete our plans for the ambush at Sanction."</i><br />
<br />
When Tamera finished reading the note, everyone was silent. This whole time, they had been blindly following along to the enemy's plans.<br />
<br />
Maybe it was time to upset those plans...<br />
<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party continues through Sanction to uncover more of what is going on...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-52037428361577852222012-06-10T09:06:00.002-04:002012-06-10T09:08:25.250-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: THE PRISON LORDNote:<i> If you read my previous entry, then you know that this one does not have the proper screenshots. I have done what I can with other screenshots to fill in the space. I promise to never lose the screenshots in the future if I can help it...because it sucks to work without them.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
When we last left the party, they had stumbled upon a half-elf named Tanis who was busy freeing the slaves from the prison in Neraka. He asked the party to help free the other slaves and to create a diversion while he got them all to safety.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63VZfRjfDA4LKUG1XcY43uT9CJbKVSzNlm1OpRDPFsrYsIHT07lNvc0IqgG1tpxXEnD-XJlTnaX70km4tyVBCO9-F77xenm_zC2gNvpLubQcA-SIoVaV5qKJqpvbJvsT5oZBXcifnP9c/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63VZfRjfDA4LKUG1XcY43uT9CJbKVSzNlm1OpRDPFsrYsIHT07lNvc0IqgG1tpxXEnD-XJlTnaX70km4tyVBCO9-F77xenm_zC2gNvpLubQcA-SIoVaV5qKJqpvbJvsT5oZBXcifnP9c/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Didn't he say this once before? Oh right, I lost the screenshots...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
With no time to lose, the party headed deeper into the prison to locate the rest of the prisoners. It didn't take them long. Voices cried out in the darkness, and the party happened upon a group of slaves being held in cells. Working quickly, the party broke open the locks and set the prisoners free.<br />
<br />
<i>"Go quickly,"</i> Tamera Beldon told them. <i> "Meet the half-elf at the end of the hall. He will get you to safety."</i><br />
<br />
Heading deeper into the prison, the party found even more slaves. Again, the locks were broken and the prisoners were set free. They were sent on their way to meet up with Tanis.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdq-0mgvQ0Q6N-SuEPk9aamP_jek_XSBXwBneShtT-a0RUvgsHDhW_B2NtuJRpmkzqgXoGKorIFF-Km1k5KJLsL2SluwLAgHiPMZufAQshPetrUagJAVRUybyXVCfdCc2NAJdrb9KRTJ4/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdq-0mgvQ0Q6N-SuEPk9aamP_jek_XSBXwBneShtT-a0RUvgsHDhW_B2NtuJRpmkzqgXoGKorIFF-Km1k5KJLsL2SluwLAgHiPMZufAQshPetrUagJAVRUybyXVCfdCc2NAJdrb9KRTJ4/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reusing pictures is fun! Right?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Kavina Do'Arden noted that the party was lucky that the prison guards had already been dealt with in this area, otherwise the whole affair might have been messy. Realizing that the cells were all empty, they headed back toward where Tanis had asked them to create a distraction.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, that hallway ended up being guarded...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMf3H93rvVXv1Q_x3bYKGMKm07Be6lR3cMq32lVWu2ABPTLLZBdhUq-mKBDBFUrwPHHt3gGik9L6_Wdf9JsVDiaNDOOJ0L72GJRIgNdl2zwwqprLQP8XiW8OUaEJi9Iv19A6BOx5f48g/s1600/8704-champions-of-krynn-dos-screenshot-green-dragons-best-fought.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMf3H93rvVXv1Q_x3bYKGMKm07Be6lR3cMq32lVWu2ABPTLLZBdhUq-mKBDBFUrwPHHt3gGik9L6_Wdf9JsVDiaNDOOJ0L72GJRIgNdl2zwwqprLQP8XiW8OUaEJi9Iv19A6BOx5f48g/s640/8704-champions-of-krynn-dos-screenshot-green-dragons-best-fought.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to the Internet, I managed to find an appropriate screenshot. Yay, me!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A trio of green dragons stood waiting for the party. They growled loudly.<br />
<br />
<i>"You dare to come here and remove the slaves that belong to the Prison Lord? You are foolish, indeed!"</i> one of them said. <i>"This is where your meddling ends."</i><br />
<br />
The dragons rushed at the party. The party, caught by surprise, quickly found that the dragons were tougher than they appeared. Thaddeus Durin and Wil Dhargon took the full force of a spray of acid coming from one of the dragon's mouths. They fell under the burning acid, no longer moving. Tamera Beldon rushed over to bandage them.<br />
<br />
Lord Benjamin rushed at the other dragons, sword swinging wildly. Behind him, Janessa Waylan prepared a spell. She cast haste, and everyone left standing in the party found they could suddenly move faster and attack quicker.<br />
<br />
The dragons weren't prepared for this turn of events. Despite their earlier triumph over the party, they discovered that the remaining four members had turned the tide. They went down before they could regain the advantage.<br />
<br />
Tamera worked her healing magic and managed to get her fallen comrades back up. A little weaker than before, they rejoined the party, a little wiser about the dangers of dragon breath.<br />
<br />
Just as the party were back on their feet, a man rushed around the corner with a group of guards.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDMuK2bloyzDkl6lDOLSu06qDicsC6OUoAXGTgFqhsV0rZl2-3eB12b2Nrn44m9gWw4HMSgP0SCFW_rWkiI9g5JrgHKaX46BYtIFTmK0XIFqO_yTNgiyaTD4f6U5Oa18K2_kSlWSIFZQ/s1600/merlin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqiZ6BGqdp0fvJ92h5IGbe3Mg_zf5Q_OEnfWsfdyaGdERf5HpU9byL8gzlC58PmpWosESeJcJLwhP59d-oPB0-uWKSEFjjZXCtSVy6QIF99ygUHGjkvy27_DZgGqoxZT7G3TrC_IMBcc/s1600/prisonlord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqiZ6BGqdp0fvJ92h5IGbe3Mg_zf5Q_OEnfWsfdyaGdERf5HpU9byL8gzlC58PmpWosESeJcJLwhP59d-oPB0-uWKSEFjjZXCtSVy6QIF99ygUHGjkvy27_DZgGqoxZT7G3TrC_IMBcc/s640/prisonlord.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had no picture of the Prison Lord, so I made one. I'm pretty sure that isn't what he looked like.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The party stood before the dreaded Prison Lord. He ordered his guards to attack as he shouted at the party in anger.<br />
<br />
The party wasted no time. Compared to fighting the dragons, the Prison Lord and his guards were an easy match. Wil Dhargon shouted out a few insults while Lord Benjamin charged. Caught flat-footed against the oncoming rush, the Prison Lord and his guards went down quickly.<br />
<br />
With the battle over, the party searched through the Prison Lord's belongings, and found a note in his pocket, which read:<br />
<br />
<i>"It has come to my attention that the bodies we received here in Sanction from your prisons are in highly deteriorated condition. We realize that information must be gained by torture and that it is a useful way to relax, but I would prefer it if a majority of the bones remained uncrushed. I will not repeat this request."</i><br />
<br />
It was signed by Sir Lebaum.<br />
<br />
The party realized it was the second time they had come across the name. But, they would need to ponder the ramifications of it later. For now, they needed to escape and insure that the prisoners made it out safely.<br />
<br />
The party headed toward the exit. On the way, they located a small stash of Copper Dragon eggs that had been left behind. Not wanting them to fall into the hands of their enemies, the party took them, being careful to not damage them.<br />
<br />
As the party left the prison, they saw Tanis in the distance. He waved to them as he lead the prisoners through the gates of Neraka and off to freedom. The party knew that they had defeated the evil in Neraka, but it had cost them greatly...for Sir Karl had been lost.<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party continues the adventure...with proper screenshots and everything...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-92205234003312586562012-06-04T22:07:00.000-04:002012-06-04T22:07:15.943-04:00Loss of ScreenshotsI will be posting an update to "Champions of Krynn" later this week. However, the events will not include screenshots. This is because of an issue I had with Windows that required me to reinstall my operating system. I forgot to move the screenshots off the main drive, and they are now history.<br />
<br />
I didn't lose my save game or anything, so I can still continue to blog about the game, so that's a blessing. I just wanted everyone to be prepared that the next installment would not include the right graphics (though I may use stand-in images).<br />
<br />
Thanks for sticking with the blog.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-5628150844109664602012-05-25T13:04:00.000-04:002012-05-25T13:04:10.480-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: MAYA'S SECRETIn the last installment, the party had returned to the outpost to discover that the annoying draconian named Myrtani had come and kidnapped Sir Karl. His lover, Maya, had left in a rage, vowing to kill Myrtani and all his followers. The party, feeling some manner of loyalty to the man, vowed that they would do what they could to rescue him.<br />
<br />
But first, they had to get permission from the new outpost commander.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkU8-HxzW9OZc-lM9JtRbviC4K08gwR1-lSNd5UrZl9x-jxOStJyFXBw1tW3iLHAl0FpCCoyxxr5fPqc1HXOLjAOyc0J9W7btstIxqzaUSyI16fd4-LP_yXWbl_1E4UTDl1ukZ5aLuhs/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkU8-HxzW9OZc-lM9JtRbviC4K08gwR1-lSNd5UrZl9x-jxOStJyFXBw1tW3iLHAl0FpCCoyxxr5fPqc1HXOLjAOyc0J9W7btstIxqzaUSyI16fd4-LP_yXWbl_1E4UTDl1ukZ5aLuhs/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wait...if Myrtani kidnapped Sir Karl, wouldn't it be wise to search for him since it would lead to Myrtani? I'm confused.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sir Mathias made it clear to the party that they could help search for Sir Karl, but only if it did not interfere with their mission to uncover what Myrtani was up to. Overall, the party was not happy with what Sir Mathias had told them, but they agreed it was wise not to abandon the whole mission.<br />
<br />
As they left the office, though, Maya returned... <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGrwBJQOZjU-DtS36eqWAACqDoBsjenjKS2NbterhE_GfVzD3tG2nrvKg5KR0LvjA6YPWdKbSqqcKgcQGrMV7dJ9ULxwypqS4_kUPWiVhQSwEatEvYam7rmPuNnXwpS6rdE_zsIkBU08/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGrwBJQOZjU-DtS36eqWAACqDoBsjenjKS2NbterhE_GfVzD3tG2nrvKg5KR0LvjA6YPWdKbSqqcKgcQGrMV7dJ9ULxwypqS4_kUPWiVhQSwEatEvYam7rmPuNnXwpS6rdE_zsIkBU08/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of course we know what happened. You told us!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Maya informed the party that Myrtani had taken Sir Karl to Neraka. How she had come about the information was anyone's guess. She suggested that with the party's help, they could penetrate the enemy headquarters in Neraka and free him. Without a moment of hesitation, the party pledged to help Maya.<br />
<br />
She was grateful, and lead them out the gate. She told the party to follow her and she would show them the way to Neraka.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPYrVVbgjGOCpKOuHYWBUGoRcv2jjkSWy9Pf4rFZCM3HACtvTc5-5WjY_QOcDkwFes8TNiEK0ve_xGLd-BdA1j9lGELccajx-AAwKzIsvwVHxsZrEi9pm3dWwwD37lcoETlsz3w_8fro/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPYrVVbgjGOCpKOuHYWBUGoRcv2jjkSWy9Pf4rFZCM3HACtvTc5-5WjY_QOcDkwFes8TNiEK0ve_xGLd-BdA1j9lGELccajx-AAwKzIsvwVHxsZrEi9pm3dWwwD37lcoETlsz3w_8fro/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The party wisely avoids the road.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Though the journey took nearly a day, the party pushed themselves toward Neraka. For Maya's part, she barely spoke during the trip. Any attempts to engage her in conversation ended quickly, as she informed any who asked that she did not want to be bothered and instead wanted to focus on the task ahead of her.<br />
<br />
Wil Dhargon attempted to cheer her up by showing her a magic trick, but somehow the kender only managed to set fire to to his own cloak, which slowed everyone down while they stopped to put him out. <br />
<br />
Eventually, the party arrived at the gates to Neraka. As they approached, they quickly discovered that the place had not been left unguarded.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7TZObA-hx2oKhPi52q1AidTacP4P8HQrlUOvHPep2poMvb89S8yoS_R9AeVOVplIspz7KNOdnNz4Q8wWyzlybZYgesq6LA2gPpJl5lwtwAE_TiPkGH2ZtccKLEZFk2yB9j78xnlHcEk/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7TZObA-hx2oKhPi52q1AidTacP4P8HQrlUOvHPep2poMvb89S8yoS_R9AeVOVplIspz7KNOdnNz4Q8wWyzlybZYgesq6LA2gPpJl5lwtwAE_TiPkGH2ZtccKLEZFk2yB9j78xnlHcEk/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a surprise!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Shouting in glee, Draconians descended upon the party as they approached the gate. Lord Benjamin ordered everyone into formation and lead the group into the attack. But, something happened that he did not expect.<br />
<br />
A loud roar sounded from behind. As the party whipped around, they saw Maya changing shape. Her body twisted and grew until she took on the form of a large silver dragon! She howled loudly as ice flew from between her lips and struck at the Draconians.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZriybslPaznQhLc-XMjgYQWFaFdeuFMi9tYvH3chTl30-U-TGok-ZNgahP59aF9euhX8jqNjBfavLcuZxNP0C2YaQls11qIBXNK_zxWFxDL5_fDtLAiDXdmptnaZiGhKZFuLuWMXGRQ/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZriybslPaznQhLc-XMjgYQWFaFdeuFMi9tYvH3chTl30-U-TGok-ZNgahP59aF9euhX8jqNjBfavLcuZxNP0C2YaQls11qIBXNK_zxWFxDL5_fDtLAiDXdmptnaZiGhKZFuLuWMXGRQ/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the new look, Maya.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Draconians were no match for the might of an angry dragon. With the party's help, the Draconians were quickly defeated, as Maya used her incredible strength to knock aside the gate. Once the battle was finished, she transformed back into her human form and approached the party.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3P5DvHbf93syfHpGNu59tXKuXx8_r0fOvyrw4JI8y-RaCnn5-IVlk4YeBdb8068HLbZVcszj2a-k2ts7HFwARN-zZ98AVL4e4Etg1U86fzuhcF31o88bQRlOmgJXvcn5jOK9bj1vaGI/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3P5DvHbf93syfHpGNu59tXKuXx8_r0fOvyrw4JI8y-RaCnn5-IVlk4YeBdb8068HLbZVcszj2a-k2ts7HFwARN-zZ98AVL4e4Etg1U86fzuhcF31o88bQRlOmgJXvcn5jOK9bj1vaGI/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why would he be embarrassed? It's obviously awesome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
She said: "<i>Well now you know, I am a silver dragon who loves a mortal man. I dislike keeping secrets, but I knew Sir Karl would be embarrassed if my identity were well known. I hope you will understand."</i><br />
<br />
The party agreed that her secret was her own business. They told her that, for now, the top priority would be rescuing Sir Karl. She agreed.<br />
<br />
<i>"He will be in the main headquarters. We should head there."</i><br />
<br />
Finding the headquarters turned out to be easier than the party thought. Once there, Maya once again transformed into a dragon and defeated the few guards who stood in the way. The party opened the door and headed inside.<br />
<br />
As soon as they entered, they were met with a terrible sight.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX8RinqZc24uMpdGsOT3MBKWppqcCYTWAXoSXeQPNnEKDmk3mNuTm8H5_7-8QXA9Y5pZ2aS26JsZPnPOQbqEg0Hn5xuZ9blZPzP0lMDQQLNNJap5jyai7Oxxor_51CdK8DgdOr2XZaNg/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX8RinqZc24uMpdGsOT3MBKWppqcCYTWAXoSXeQPNnEKDmk3mNuTm8H5_7-8QXA9Y5pZ2aS26JsZPnPOQbqEg0Hn5xuZ9blZPzP0lMDQQLNNJap5jyai7Oxxor_51CdK8DgdOr2XZaNg/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well, this rescue isn't going as planned, is it?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sir Karl staggered up the stairway ahead of them, covered in blood. He collapsed at the top of the stairs as the party rushed over to him. <i>"The slaves...they must be freed from below...help them..."</i><br />
<br />
Tamera tried to aid him with divine healing, but it didn't seem to do any good. He kept speaking: <i> "They tortured me to get information, but I gave them nothing. Killed my guards when they came for me again. Afraid I didn't quite make it all the way out...."</i><br />
<br />
<i>"Maya, I love you,"</i> he whispered. His eyes suddenly glazed over and his breathing stopped. With those final words, Sir Karl Gaardsen was dead.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_g4CYdV252QXYO5GHqxx89rFWFj-CLGSDgY1TEDTA0-ttlN4kEU4DF9rbFXHK7dvyAv_0pqo-WbkO0NuwjPLHuBIrbiTGgszYi_zZucXbwF_gbVEL8qXctq1azW2fTahAvPddlWYuvw/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_g4CYdV252QXYO5GHqxx89rFWFj-CLGSDgY1TEDTA0-ttlN4kEU4DF9rbFXHK7dvyAv_0pqo-WbkO0NuwjPLHuBIrbiTGgszYi_zZucXbwF_gbVEL8qXctq1azW2fTahAvPddlWYuvw/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She is understandably upset.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Maya broke down and started crying. Then, her face contorted angrily. She shouted loudly that she would kill Myrtani and the other Draconians. <br />
<br />
With a scream of anguish, she transformed into her dragon form while the party watched. She reached out and picked up Sir Karl's body, cradling it between her claws. Her wings shot out, and she kicked off the ground, flying back out the front door and into the sky.<br />
<br />
With that, Maya and Sir Karl were gone.<br />
<br />
Stunned, the party quickly regained their composure. If nothing else, Sir Karl would want them to rescue the prisoners. It had been his dying wish. The party pulled themselves together and headed down the stairs.<br />
<br />
As soon as they hit the bottom of the stairs, they heard the sounds of battle from somewhere nearby. Weapons ready, they rushed down a dark hallway.<br />
<br />
At the end of the hallway, they found a single half-elf wiping out a group of Draconians. He had a couple of prisoners in tow behind him. He was surprised to find the party behind him, but recognized that Lord Benjamin was a Knight of Solamnia by his markings.<br />
<br />
<i>"I don't know who you are,"</i> the half-elf said, <i>"but if you are champions of good, then you are friends of mine. As for myself, I am called Tanis."</i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmApOC57nO8y9_rxXJXdXo2dap2ja-o73U9p5rn54-cu7KnJpMqgwnZ16WL3npd1IjAiteE4cWVDI48oLU1dVzOCpa1ShxUQfkFCH6oCKicD8eDiQnFDYfBe3kRE6BBocOHL25F_x6kI/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmApOC57nO8y9_rxXJXdXo2dap2ja-o73U9p5rn54-cu7KnJpMqgwnZ16WL3npd1IjAiteE4cWVDI48oLU1dVzOCpa1ShxUQfkFCH6oCKicD8eDiQnFDYfBe3kRE6BBocOHL25F_x6kI/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sounds like a plan! Who are you again?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He told the party: <i>"I had heard of slaves being taken in the area, so I disguised myself and arranged to be captured. I have just managed to free the slaves here, but more are held to the south. I will organize the slaves here while you free the others. Then we will arrange a diversion to allow the slaves a chance to escape."</i><br />
<br />
The party agreed, remembering that they were doing this in memory of Sir Karl. They vowed to Tanis that they would return soon with the rest of the slaves.<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party helps Tanis free the slaves...<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-85112588971596638632012-05-18T13:18:00.001-04:002012-05-18T13:20:34.726-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: THE GRAVEYARDAided by the mysterious thief named Mysellia, the party has uncovered that things in Jelek aren't quite what they seem. An annoying man named Skyla, who the party suspected might be part elf and part kender, led the party straight into an ambush. Barely surviving, the party has thrown in with Mysellia to uncover information about someone named Sir LeBaum, who apparently has an office in the town graveyard.<br />
<br />
Making haste across town, the party found the main gates of the graveyard and stepped through.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nC4uwSSEpalcRaZ5nxvWjRbESr5KGi4eE9QzIp6Rs-IFvt8y3HkfW5dFHiqh5ZN4dNDJob9Z1ns0N9vSIUSe6J7FKYHFOgjnGfbYWGZ8NhQBkyzvbomHgRPz5mFj21N-qIXUdBNJWVM/s1600/start_011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nC4uwSSEpalcRaZ5nxvWjRbESr5KGi4eE9QzIp6Rs-IFvt8y3HkfW5dFHiqh5ZN4dNDJob9Z1ns0N9vSIUSe6J7FKYHFOgjnGfbYWGZ8NhQBkyzvbomHgRPz5mFj21N-qIXUdBNJWVM/s640/start_011.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wouldn't that mean that they were dug out and not dug up?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The graveyard was quiet, but the party noticed immediately that something suspicious was going on. The majority of the graves had been unearthed, from the inside. Tamera brought out her holy symbol of Mishakal and warned everyone to be on the lookout for undead.<br />
<br />
Mysellia steered the party between the graves, following the path toward Sir LeBaum's office. There were signs of heavy feet dragging along the mud, and as the party got deeper into the graveyard, the stench of death became quite apparent.<br />
<br />
A grating sound of claws raking stone sounded just ahead of the party. They stopped dead in their tracks as foul undead crawled up from the holes in the ground, snarling and hissing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_kprTBeq0je4LIPDLyYHSt44EzEdnJW055whngtOcu1AcP4-Hbh43H6f04IM3arXqd0edU4dTnC1q5I1sehNb751DPW_puYjP5fmY48L_F0TmiH0PbkfByMuuS9q_onfpMIJsX4RBKg/s1600/start_012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_kprTBeq0je4LIPDLyYHSt44EzEdnJW055whngtOcu1AcP4-Hbh43H6f04IM3arXqd0edU4dTnC1q5I1sehNb751DPW_puYjP5fmY48L_F0TmiH0PbkfByMuuS9q_onfpMIJsX4RBKg/s640/start_012.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's something seriously wrong with this guy's legs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The ghouls leaped toward the party, intent on feeding their insatiable hunger for flesh. But, Tamera was prepared. Her holy symbol shot into the air. <i>"By the power of Mishakal, I banish you foul beasts back to the realm of death!"</i> A light of holy radiance emitted from her hand and the creatures howled in torment.<br />
<br />
Within a few seconds, it was over. The creatures, which might have been a problem for the townsfolk, had been turned to piles of dust. Tamera lowered her holy symbol, as Wil Dhargon danced up and down and begged her to do it again. A sharp look from her quieted the kender, and he stopped his bouncing.<br />
<br />
Eventually, the party made it to Sir LeBaum's office. Mysellia opened the door.<br />
<br />
The office appeared as though it had been abandoned hastily. Drawers had been left open and papers were scattered everywhere. Among the papers, the party found a note that had been left behind:<br />
<br />
<i>"Myrtani is gathering forces in secret areas around Sanction. We won't be ready for a few weeks yet. My minions have started gathering materials for my use. Several graveyards have been looted already. Many of them have left the open grave sites unfilled. I suppose it can't be helped. Stupidity has always been our most dangerous enemy."</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i>"Myrtani has found a Dragonlance! I urged him to give it to his strongest warrior, but I'm afraid that the draconian doesn't trust anyone who could hold that much power. Foolish. He's going to hide it away somewhere in Sanction."</i><br />
<br />
At last, the party had some information on where the Dragonlance had been taken. This information would be incredibly useful to Sir Karl.<br />
<br />
Mysellia told them that there was another large building in the graveyard, and that they might find more information there. The party agreed that it was wise to explore all the options, and asked her to lead the way.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWUds-KPADUPpsmQHL1ZCc9Ze59pwQ7a5exYHW4-0AKRS6M44XXCetYDPSJcu53JaKhNWg8qa1PQ_iBXL8R9aQNWOuy6MnpuKwfqqXR4bvSU6LN-websNTAGlZ-jctxBQZes1YjlS69A/s1600/start_013.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWUds-KPADUPpsmQHL1ZCc9Ze59pwQ7a5exYHW4-0AKRS6M44XXCetYDPSJcu53JaKhNWg8qa1PQ_iBXL8R9aQNWOuy6MnpuKwfqqXR4bvSU6LN-websNTAGlZ-jctxBQZes1YjlS69A/s640/start_013.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I guess I don't get the choice whether I want to pick it or not.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It didn't take long for the party to make their way to the other building, a small crypt. Outside the crypt, they spied a silver rose bush. A single bloom grew from the center, shining brightly in the sunlight. Sir Karl had asked the party to recover such a flower as a personal favor. What he wanted it for was something only he would know.<br />
<br />
Kavina Do'Arden reached out and plucked the rose from the bush. As she did, the rest of the bush began to wither and die. Somehow, this one flower had been the most important part of the whole plant, and without it, the rest of the organism could not survive.<br />
<br />
A dark shadow seemed to cover the bush and block out the sun, drenching it in sadness. Or...was the shadow something else?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIoHers0ucaFJyBL9xg5Aw4LWC25o-PG60S615ggqnE51mExawUg6oR2bKJIWUFinY40Ul7tkdvB71C-2Tjz5YG5ygPmK5EA67xUYHOkZBJ0FcfPf9YtliQg-xUsnsaJ1iAdrZh0IQ3I/s1600/start_014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIoHers0ucaFJyBL9xg5Aw4LWC25o-PG60S615ggqnE51mExawUg6oR2bKJIWUFinY40Ul7tkdvB71C-2Tjz5YG5ygPmK5EA67xUYHOkZBJ0FcfPf9YtliQg-xUsnsaJ1iAdrZh0IQ3I/s640/start_014.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is why having a choice would have been a good idea.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As the shadows grew in size, the party looked upward and realized that three large shapes were descending upon them. Dragons, black as the night sky, swirled down and surrounded the party. They roared loudly as their wings kicked up dirt and grass. Acid spewed from between their lips.<br />
<br />
The battle happened quickly. Despite how fierce the creatures were, the party used tactics to confuse them. Weaving in and out and ducking between the dragons, Lord Benjamin and Thaddeus Durin cut the beasts with their swords. Janessa threw spells, while Kavina Do'Arden circled around to get an advantageous position behind them. <br />
<br />
While this was happening. Wil Dhargon taunted the dragons loudly, drawing their attention away from the rest of the party. <i> "I bet you think you're pretty scary, huh? The only thing scary about you is that terrible smelling breath! You'd think a mouth full of acid could wash away that stench, but boy, would you be wrong! What happened, did your mother have relations with a giant dung heap?"</i><br />
<br />
Distracted, the dragons fell one by one as the party cut them down with swords and burned them with spells. The party gave a collective sigh of relief when the last one fell.<br />
<br />
The party checked the inside of the building. A few undead hid inside, and were quickly dispatched by Tamera's holy symbol. The small crypt revealed no information that the party found useful. <br />
<br />
Knowing that the information they had gained was important, the party figured it was time for them to leave Jelek and head back to the outpost. They wished Mysellia well and thanked her for her help. They found a way out of the town and headed south back toward where they hoped Sir Karl would be waiting for them.<br />
<br />
Instead, they found that things had gone terribly wrong in their absence.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5imlp_NPM7YGdVMs2ixm2gy347qE8zdLfROKwFNVXktnkbJFa1RvayDiS-IVZy6Jbx8dXA49vzX-V56GAO6wfx0Dd_qM5UZft-xq2Ticp9wdM-O5yntTwW9aLfm5QIII_gmIFAK2pxcA/s1600/start_015.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5imlp_NPM7YGdVMs2ixm2gy347qE8zdLfROKwFNVXktnkbJFa1RvayDiS-IVZy6Jbx8dXA49vzX-V56GAO6wfx0Dd_qM5UZft-xq2Ticp9wdM-O5yntTwW9aLfm5QIII_gmIFAK2pxcA/s640/start_015.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well...crap...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Smoke poured from the buildings and soldiers ran around tossing water onto small fires. There was chaos everywhere.<br />
<br />
Maya, the mysterious lady friend of Sir Karl found the party and approached them. "<i>Myrtani came while you were gone and led an attack on the base. He kidnapped Sir Karl!"</i> A tear rolled down her cheek and she turned away from the party so that they would not see her despair.<br />
<br />
Her voice suddenly grew angry. <i> "I will find him, wherever they have taken him! And, I will wrest the life from Myrtani myself!" </i> She pushed away from the party and ran out the gate of the outpost. <i>"Do not follow me!"</i><br />
<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party heads out to rescue Sir Karl...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-91880322557577035212012-05-17T11:47:00.002-04:002012-05-17T11:49:30.374-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: SKYLAAfter the last adventure, the party made its way back to the outpost to report to Sir Karl. To their dismay, they discovered that he had left to investigate some problems to the west. But, he left them a note with the following instructions:<br />
<br />
<i>"My friends, I'm afraid I will be away for a few days. In the meantime, continue searching for the Ogre base, as it is vital that we uncover what is happening there. Also, there are rumors of trouble down south in the town of Jelek, but nothing we can confirm. You should also investigate what is happening there. I will see you again in a few days."</i><br />
<br />
Taking a few minutes to stop into the outpost's tavern, the party discussed what their next move should be. It occurred to them that despite their intentions to go and find the Ogre base, they actually had no idea where to start or where it might be located. So, after a few quick drinks, they headed out to the town of Jalek, deciding that they would definitely look into the Ogres as soon as they got back.<br />
<br />
At the town gates of Jelek, though, they were stopped by guardsmen. They demanded to know what the party wanted, and told them:<br />
<br />
<i>"We've had a lot of unsavory characters passing through town lately. The good armies have left us in the lurch and we are forced to take the law into our own hands in order to protect the citizens of the town. All persons entering Jelek that are unknown to the guards shall be assigned an escort for the duration of their stay. They will be restricted to the public parts of town. The burial grounds are strictly forbidden to all strangers."</i><br />
<br />
At that point, they called over the man who would be assigned to accompany the party in Jelek.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFZA89O8jYmRe0c6C8CBCZJbh2SY38IXTzMRNwCYs2jX_gisRDdxhCzl7RN4W2I3nZ_Zsz1B6aKp7b-P5dRdF9Zzfw-0f6aE1tqc6YYprJgpDpCyEHXPP4i6o3wJbSnl7qp_6XOXbTR8/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFZA89O8jYmRe0c6C8CBCZJbh2SY38IXTzMRNwCYs2jX_gisRDdxhCzl7RN4W2I3nZ_Zsz1B6aKp7b-P5dRdF9Zzfw-0f6aE1tqc6YYprJgpDpCyEHXPP4i6o3wJbSnl7qp_6XOXbTR8/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is it my imagination, or is that Jeff Goldblum in drag?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The man introduced himself as Skyla. He gave the party a goofy grin. His entire aspect seemed dignified enough, until he began to talk. At that point, the party began to question his ancestry and wondered if maybe he hadn't suffered a terrible fall on his head as a child.<br />
<br />
He babbled on about the party going to visit a friend of his who could offer a great deal of information and items to the party. "<i>My friend has many objects of value for sale. And you should see his frog collection. It's amazing! He even has a sword that seems to be magical. Or, at least undead creatures seem to run in terror from it. He also has a lot of potions for sale. He might even have information about some things involving recent activities in the area. Oh yeah, and his daughter is really beautiful. C'mon!"</i><br />
<br />
Skyla grabbed Janessa Waylan by the hand and began to pull her through the streets on his quest to locate the house where his friend lived. The rest of the party quickly followed. It was then that Tamera noticed something. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7i_n0V7XW7L1ECXjjGuHq4WqN87-u3jnEA1283K8CJxEszKdVGp8a-eMdHLTDpqFuD-0O2eR6Cd8fpRuzRvreyTZsZ4Sbgt0d1AqPf7JAIowYFG01TEIaqmF0aYuan40PGqOjfjWFlw/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7i_n0V7XW7L1ECXjjGuHq4WqN87-u3jnEA1283K8CJxEszKdVGp8a-eMdHLTDpqFuD-0O2eR6Cd8fpRuzRvreyTZsZ4Sbgt0d1AqPf7JAIowYFG01TEIaqmF0aYuan40PGqOjfjWFlw/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What crowd?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A shadowy figure seemed to be watching the party from the recesses of an alleyway. The figure slipped into the crowd and disappeared before Tamera could get a bearing on where they went.<br />
<br />
Toward the front of the party, Janessa spotted a shop dealing in magical items and pulled Skyla to a stop. She told him that she wanted to go into the magical shop and see what they had for sale. Skyla did not seem happy with the detour, but relented, as the rest of the party steered their way into the shop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhleUd27BV5niQWHZgyFWAbt4kPwv6rxY2XoCnHxZeVUGMvqwVvdjOOpx37K3EKUjEqG3iJY97sWZLJbHDwAu_x-ZlwklefNPN_7mPUnZD-xkadPtuYLtiEREzDs5BdVC__azVJWD3kVWw/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhleUd27BV5niQWHZgyFWAbt4kPwv6rxY2XoCnHxZeVUGMvqwVvdjOOpx37K3EKUjEqG3iJY97sWZLJbHDwAu_x-ZlwklefNPN_7mPUnZD-xkadPtuYLtiEREzDs5BdVC__azVJWD3kVWw/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this a magical shop or the local Hooters?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Skyla waited impatiently while the party browsed the wares and bought a few scrolls. He tried to talk the party out of the purchase, exclaiming loudly that his friend had much better scrolls at half the cost. If only the party would follow him there, they would see that this whole shop was a waste of money.<br />
<br />
Janessa bought the scrolls anyway, but promised that if Skyla's friend had any items of real value, she still had plenty of gold left to purchase a few things.<br />
<br />
Eventually, the party finished shopping and headed back out into the street. Skyla seemed distracted, looking back toward the main gates. He shook his head and said he thought he saw something, but that it must be his imagination. He then urged the party onward toward his friend's house, recounting what a great guy he was and how many things the party would find that they would like.<br />
<br />
A sudden noise behind the party brought everyone to a stop. Behind them, a large food cart had been overturned and several merchants were squabbling. A shadowy figure darted from near the food cart and headed into the alleyway.<br />
<br />
Skyla suddenly became very serious. <i>"I'll return in a few minutes. Please continue down this road until it ends and turn left. I'll catch up to you in a minute."</i> With that Skyla headed back toward the direction of the food carts and disappeared into the crowd. <br />
<br />
The party headed down the road, following the instructions they had been given. Sure enough, withing a few minutes, Skyla returned, giving the party a big smile.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkK8MMWZBkimaMRlwDaWyxt5aIalrV6qHPSIjoxbNxZRTAFhIyDs7ulBkMOfDcNqFMHfjmqnSAj8Yx5puFcdLNFQmxhbaaM2TfWodzsqGaS3079yUG6FFVhcc52KnKdfmJzUCxnuqBU8/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkK8MMWZBkimaMRlwDaWyxt5aIalrV6qHPSIjoxbNxZRTAFhIyDs7ulBkMOfDcNqFMHfjmqnSAj8Yx5puFcdLNFQmxhbaaM2TfWodzsqGaS3079yUG6FFVhcc52KnKdfmJzUCxnuqBU8/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard to find? The party followed his instructions to the letter...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
He apologized for having to leave so abruptly, complained about how hard the party was to find, and then urged them to continue their trip to his friend's house. The party headed down about a block, when Skyla held up his hand and stopped them again.<br />
<br />
He apologized again, but told the party that he had to leave again. He promised it would be the last time and darted down a side street, leaving the party standing in the middle of the road.<br />
<br />
The party started to question whether Skyla was all there. It was highly possible that he was not mentally well. He seemed to sometimes be pleasant and coherent, and other times to be completely insane.<br />
<br />
As the party discussed this, they were suddenly surrounded by rough looking characters. Without warning, these shady people drew weapons and charged the party.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkKfFueUazpVtQI6MDFj4BiqUoKKpsZqqCkRlh6xiOXhbDz7Wz2gA0JT5i9OeXP0neE_7F1gO-ccloW0nFgTFgleVHG7zR1mcF9HLrpdwqFdtcfqtEYG68cX1J2ePO1O6zz1oItTCNjk/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkKfFueUazpVtQI6MDFj4BiqUoKKpsZqqCkRlh6xiOXhbDz7Wz2gA0JT5i9OeXP0neE_7F1gO-ccloW0nFgTFgleVHG7zR1mcF9HLrpdwqFdtcfqtEYG68cX1J2ePO1O6zz1oItTCNjk/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okay, maybe they weren't "surrounded."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even though the party had been caught unaware, they still managed to hold off the group and defeat them rather quickly, especially given that Janessa used a Fireball spell to thin their numbers. The crowd that had been in the streets had suddenly disappeared.<br />
<br />
Skyla returned very quickly afterward. He noticed the dead bodies on the ground. <i>"What happened here? Well, no matter. We are overdue to meet with my friend. Come, let's leave the streets before someone thinks you're responsible for this mess."</i><br />
<br />
He pushed the party onward around several corners until they approached a large building. He opened the door and stepped inside, gesturing for the party to enter. After they stepped through the door, he slammed it and locked it behind them.<br />
<br />
Skyla turned and laughed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCvUFDbyjV4JoUDFrRfdHS3L9yF4nycYdvQPUCKJ13tGaIgXuLkbqoiflEbOKz9l3vjE8We94UW9O_4G5rarIWI9fvUi_xEtTYnh9u9AqMAKC3GN2q1vq1tbJOGc3TjV02Acc6G2EeQ0/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCvUFDbyjV4JoUDFrRfdHS3L9yF4nycYdvQPUCKJ13tGaIgXuLkbqoiflEbOKz9l3vjE8We94UW9O_4G5rarIWI9fvUi_xEtTYnh9u9AqMAKC3GN2q1vq1tbJOGc3TjV02Acc6G2EeQ0/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why, Jeff Goldblum, why?!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i>"We have known about you group of troublemakers for quite some time. Myrtani is not pleased with how you have been disrupting his plans. I must leave now and tell Myrtani of our success. My friends will deal with you."</i><br />
<br />
He waved his hands. Armed warriors, armored clerics and dark-garbed mages came out of the shadows. As he slipped away, they fell upon the party.<br />
<br />
The party backed against the wall and prepared to defend themselves. Suddenly, a woman shot out of the shadows and took out one of the mages. She came up next to the party and attacked one of the warriors. The party didn't waste time and capitalized on the stunned reactions of the enemy.<br />
<br />
The battle went by swiftly. And though a few of the party members had been lightly hurt, they had come out victorious. Only Janessa Waylan had been seriously hurt and knocked unconscious, but Tamera was certain she would survive with some magical healing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcZXxKIP8Iy5GiWFr9TTOj-wezTyRY554I9C8rpNU1HcpSWpgGXBwGTUBcImtDNBD0BUOl0h8l7nKVQDx31z2mQ6tCaRTlzWSaWBsmKONeJVl0IZo-g6xrlphXDptODF4zWuSEf1e1i8/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcZXxKIP8Iy5GiWFr9TTOj-wezTyRY554I9C8rpNU1HcpSWpgGXBwGTUBcImtDNBD0BUOl0h8l7nKVQDx31z2mQ6tCaRTlzWSaWBsmKONeJVl0IZo-g6xrlphXDptODF4zWuSEf1e1i8/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shadowy figure has a real figure.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The woman introduced herself as Mysellia, and began to explain why she had been following the party.<br />
<br />
<i>"Listen, I've been following you for some time now. That Skyla character is the leader of a faction of guards that has taken over the city. He looks stupid, but don't let that fool you. He knows exactly what he looks like, and he knows how to use it to his advantage."</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"He takes his orders from Sir Lebaum. Lebaum took over about a week ago. It was slow and insidious how he did it. No word got out at all and, initially, there was lots of business for our shops. Everyone was happy. Except that now he's cut off all contact with the outside. Anyone that comes in here either joins the guards or is killed, as you almost were."</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"There's another disturbing thing. I've done some digging around and nobody has even seen this Sir Lebaum character. Most people have never even heard of him. There was a Knight of Solamnia of that name that was corrupted by Takhisis many, many years ago, but legend has it that he died---horribly, they say."</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"I'd like to get into the graveyard and examine his office. Are you willing to go with me?"</i><br />
<br />
The party took a minute to take all this in. After a few minutes, they decided that they would accompany Mysellia on her mission and get to the bottom of the trouble in Jelek.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party heads to the graveyard...<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-42063207726617151592012-05-11T16:20:00.003-04:002012-05-11T16:22:13.726-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: THE MISSING MESSENGERAfter having received word that a group of ogres were causing trouble in the area, the party agreed to look into the problem. First, though, they spent a night at the outpost resting and reclaiming their precious spells. As the sun broke over the horizon, they gathered their gear and prepared to head out to find out what was going on with the ogres.<br />
<br />
But, before the party could depart, Sir Karl approached them with an urgent matter.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2sxSjUsXdctxsViDNK4j1Sz_90lqOi7iRs1-ZShn8yUOR9PLg7b0l1_oHG63fBZuer-xV8rQnLS_lhTZLNGKcHDeMDBy0jKQgdHn-HYcLogoHISf5Z2ryW89JpTyReIkZlh4LdBEqXo/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2sxSjUsXdctxsViDNK4j1Sz_90lqOi7iRs1-ZShn8yUOR9PLg7b0l1_oHG63fBZuer-xV8rQnLS_lhTZLNGKcHDeMDBy0jKQgdHn-HYcLogoHISf5Z2ryW89JpTyReIkZlh4LdBEqXo/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good morning, Sir Karl. Thanks for getting straight to the point.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sir Karl told them that a messenger that was supposed to return from an outpost to the south hadn't checked in and no one knew where he was. Because the information being sent was important, he asked the party to delay what they were doing and head down to the outpost and report the information to the Commandant of the Southern Outpost in person. This, he figured, would be for the best because the party had first hand knowledge of everything that was going on.<br />
<br />
The party agreed to deal with the situation and put exploring the ogre situation on hold. They headed out and turned southward.<br />
<br />
A day later, they arrived at the gates of the Southern Outpost. The guards seemed unusually edgy and demanded to know what they wanted. The party informed them that they had been sent by Sir Karl to report on the situations up north and they relaxed a bit. <i> "You can never be too careful,"</i> one of them said. <i>"Follow me, I'll take you to see the Commandant. He'll want to meet with you."</i><br />
<br />
The party followed the guard and eventually were lead into the office of the Commandant. He greeted them pleasantly and listened intently to what they had to say. The conversation turned to the subject of the messenger that had gone missing.<br />
<br />
The Commandant assured the party that it was not anything to be concerned about. <i>"He has been seriously ill. The clerics are doing what they can. No one should disturb him at this time, though. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must get back to more pressing matters."</i><br />
<br />
The Commandant curtly lead them out of the office and shut the door. Thaddeus Durin expressed that he felt the Commandant seemed a little bit nervous when they asked about the messenger.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ765k6FMm1eQSxxdGDTtYbNb96GFiXeIa90hbBQK8942W3AiQaFUVAYFo-nNdqWLB9dsgSViRvSUvyA62zCKD9w4jW31UIOhkQ6x2W4zhKEU8qN5K2HLs7MrW_WNktkn-u-CGTZXEXGw/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ765k6FMm1eQSxxdGDTtYbNb96GFiXeIa90hbBQK8942W3AiQaFUVAYFo-nNdqWLB9dsgSViRvSUvyA62zCKD9w4jW31UIOhkQ6x2W4zhKEU8qN5K2HLs7MrW_WNktkn-u-CGTZXEXGw/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The party is famous.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At this point, the party began to notice that everyone on the street was paying attention to them and watching their every move. Something odd was going on.<br />
<br />
<i>"I'm feeling thirsty,"</i> Tamera said. <i>"Perhaps we should check out the outpost tavern and see if the locals know anything."</i> The party agreed. After all, taverns were a good place to hear the local rumors. Maybe they could find out something more about the messenger's illness there.<br />
<br />
But, as the party moved down the street, they were stopped by guardsmen. When Lord Benjamin asked them what the problem was, the guards demanded that they leave the area, as it was off limits to outsiders. The party quickly retreated, not wanting to start any issues.<br />
<br />
<i>"I've never seen an outpost locked down like this,"</i> Kavina Do'Arden pointed out. <i>"I mean, there aren't even any children playing in the street. That's unusual, don't you think?"</i><br />
<br />
The party agreed that it was. They noticed a large group of guards moving toward them from the main entrance. Lord Benjamin guided the party around the Commandant's office to the alley in the back. They hid there until the guards passed by.<br />
<br />
While hiding out in the alley, Wil Dhargon noticed something and called the party's attention to the wall. A secret door had been concealed in the back of the Commandant's office building. He suggested that the party sneak in and get some information about these weird happenings. And possibly rummage through the valuables inside.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqej8IGApaOfB3tg0HfvAc0VMd7wLwj80_QoZ-tnzDE2WjusJyD5GC-zOv-PierbbEVNwPy4f8R7gLnyhN2YD4cGkRUGWekLrJ4DCseAgOJkqDurV-FgMZSdD9tfQNKTCAH7nMPe4thPw/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqej8IGApaOfB3tg0HfvAc0VMd7wLwj80_QoZ-tnzDE2WjusJyD5GC-zOv-PierbbEVNwPy4f8R7gLnyhN2YD4cGkRUGWekLrJ4DCseAgOJkqDurV-FgMZSdD9tfQNKTCAH7nMPe4thPw/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Better than prisoners filled with cells, I guess.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Slipping inside, the party discovered a small jail. Hands reached through the bars of the cells inside, calling for the party's attention. Stepping toward the bars, the party discovered that the outpost's guardsmen were inside the cells!<br />
<br />
One of the guards recognized the party and told them the story of what had happened.<br />
<br />
<i>"We were captured by draconians disguised as the merchant band that comes through here every month. When we were sleeping, they killed the guards at the gate and captured us before we had a chance to even fight. They took our leaders to the barracks and interrogated them. They've all got to be dead now. Be careful! I saw one of the draconians kill the Commandant. As the Commandant died the draconian's shape changed and then he looked and sounded just like the Commandant."</i><br />
<br />
<i>"The draconians have captured our children and are holding them hostage. We dare not move against them so long as they have them. If you can kill the draconian leaders, perhaps we would have a chance."</i><br />
<br />
Angrily, Lord Benjamin pulled his sword and swore that the draconians would pay for the atrocities committed with in the outpost. He called for the rest of the party to follow him to the Commandant's office.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcEiwVGepXJ-XC6dTrUiQgi_24Ye1NGXVBt8E5lvXJNbOsya6bnl84WJprk10tS4rjbN3isylxnoozhOZBSiToX84P2OjhZht1IKuVAjwisE73Bmx_hVo3j6fPUJZUiUphCCfbdidutA/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcEiwVGepXJ-XC6dTrUiQgi_24Ye1NGXVBt8E5lvXJNbOsya6bnl84WJprk10tS4rjbN3isylxnoozhOZBSiToX84P2OjhZht1IKuVAjwisE73Bmx_hVo3j6fPUJZUiUphCCfbdidutA/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whose enemy? Yours or ours?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The party opened the door and overheard the 'Commandant' addressing some of the soldiers gathered in his office. He mentioned something about enemies moving on the city of Sanction before realizing that the party had entered. The fake Commandant shouted in alarm as the party rushed in to engage those inside.<br />
<br />
As they did, the Commandant laughed. His face twisted and the shape of his body began to change...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxbSuHqtVCBKk2j1RxerYnXO9WTDjIRHFsY3RFGG5wVM0q8DYhNvK4AyY6P_BVTOB452kU3PF-4dGxU3v1wqcINLdZ28Gux-yUp7hmjWAHNj1-VZQTNjnqpoqXbbNrIDvyCgXoOAag9I/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxbSuHqtVCBKk2j1RxerYnXO9WTDjIRHFsY3RFGG5wVM0q8DYhNvK4AyY6P_BVTOB452kU3PF-4dGxU3v1wqcINLdZ28Gux-yUp7hmjWAHNj1-VZQTNjnqpoqXbbNrIDvyCgXoOAag9I/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's no way to hold a sword.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As the party engaged the others, he transformed fully into a draconian. He shouted at a wizard to warn someone named Jadefang while he held the party off. With that, the battle was engaged.<br />
<br />
Fueled by the anger of what they had heard, the party fought hard and quickly brought the Commandant down. He died with a gleam of hatred in his eyes as he melted into a pool of acid. His guards fell down around him.<br />
<br />
Janessa Waylan mentioned that the wizard had fled out the door to the east. The party knew that the fight was just starting. They headed off after him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_a31158Jmo2OOeMwNxRySOrCa_iiQ9csoF29xOkwKFG0a6alR692eYyov5NHEjgWoqExmX4-UUG1tj-f7f903a0mIchlz37Yu-UsXcaDdxV6mK5IrSyT3a9GEl4wshffSpH2MVQm4FU/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_a31158Jmo2OOeMwNxRySOrCa_iiQ9csoF29xOkwKFG0a6alR692eYyov5NHEjgWoqExmX4-UUG1tj-f7f903a0mIchlz37Yu-UsXcaDdxV6mK5IrSyT3a9GEl4wshffSpH2MVQm4FU/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not just evil. Immense evil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once the party reached the door, however, they were overcome with a feeling of fear and dread. Only Wil Dhargon, the kender, seemed immune to the effects. He rushed forward and opened the door.<br />
<br />
A blast of warm wind hit the party as they stepped outside. A large shadow fell over them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVb3JG8fjEfxCEFoFtkbkCN-8_EmDkkrbcZvWVhyphenhyphenufujhgi8ga3gttZqYsE0w7q1aOLUFdQ8Q4P2d3ELk73GS1jWyw1W7m_8MIEYdm-LMvE5ZhtNkKIlSIDlb-ikRmRHYrJriLCCW3CiI/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVb3JG8fjEfxCEFoFtkbkCN-8_EmDkkrbcZvWVhyphenhyphenufujhgi8ga3gttZqYsE0w7q1aOLUFdQ8Q4P2d3ELk73GS1jWyw1W7m_8MIEYdm-LMvE5ZhtNkKIlSIDlb-ikRmRHYrJriLCCW3CiI/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why is the dragon in the barracks?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A large green dragon dropped down in front of them. It sneered and spoke to them in a deep voice that rattled the windows.<br />
<br />
<i>"Welcome. I am Jadefang. I have been assigned to capture this hole and convince you humans that you still own it. We did this so we could gather information and keep the southern road open. Since you have given us a lot of useful information, I thank you."</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i>"However, you have also discovered our secret. That means that I have no choice but to kill you. Alas, your meddling has brought you to this bloody end."</i><br />
<br />
The large creature spread its wings and flew into the air. As it did, guards rushed from the nearby barracks to help attack the party.<br />
<br />
Weapons ready, the party met the attack head on. The dragon dropped low, spewing burning acid from between his lips and burning Thaddeus Durin. Janessa spoke loud incantations and hit the encroaching guards with a fireball. Chaos erupted as the party was surrounded.<br />
<br />
The battle went on for many minutes. In the end, three members of the party managed to finish off the guards. Kavina Do'Arden, Thaddeus Durin and Wil Dhargon had all been badly wounded and were slowly bleeding to death. <br />
<br />
Lord Benjamin hit the dragon with the killing blow. As it died, it roared in defiance. Its large frame fell to the ground with a thud. In the distance, draconians and fake guards began to abandon the outpost. With their strongest ally defeated, the enemy's morale had dropped.<br />
<br />
The party had freed the Southern Outpost. The guardsmen were freed and reunited with their children. A few hours later, the newly elected Commandant offered the party healing and a place to rest, which they gladly accepted.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuwwu5vertEKrv0ut1aXkT7pkRUVRK-oXUpk4XmK6ua-hT-AjF9lxN-6CnOcyk4sQ44QlmhqZMjRmkzh6vWWrfGyr0QhqmFtoPqBQho38EXSorGyS0wsK2akVSojiiRRJLThcvj-OjIM/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuwwu5vertEKrv0ut1aXkT7pkRUVRK-oXUpk4XmK6ua-hT-AjF9lxN-6CnOcyk4sQ44QlmhqZMjRmkzh6vWWrfGyr0QhqmFtoPqBQho38EXSorGyS0wsK2akVSojiiRRJLThcvj-OjIM/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new commandant looks like the old commandant. What's up with that?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Commandant thanked them for coming to the outpost's aid when they needed it.<br />
<br />
Tamera Beldon replied: <i>"If Sir Karl hadn't caught us when we were leaving, we would have been somewhere else, investigating some ogres. Come to think of it...we should probably get back to doing that..."</i><br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party starts looking into the ogres...maybe...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-46435294052830393012012-05-02T16:18:00.002-04:002012-05-02T16:18:54.477-04:00School's Out!Whew! School is finally done for the semester. It was rough. Really, really rough! The final for Financial Accounting was so rough that I think I got bruising. I feel like a truck ran me over.<br />
<br />
But, now I have some free time and I will have time to resume blogging my way through Champions of Krynn (and I look forward to it). In the meantime, if you have any interest in the CRPG that I'm programming in my free time, feel free to check out my other blog: <a href="http://landsadventure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lands of Adventure</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-54768171458073798002012-04-13T13:23:00.006-04:002012-04-13T17:40:44.914-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: TESTS OF THE TOMBHaving received word from Sir Karl about magical items that might be hidden in a tomb of a fallen Solamnic Knight named Sir Dargaard, the party traveled north from the outpost in search of the tomb's hidden location. After much searching, they were finally rewarded when they discovered the entrance to tomb.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6wMaDkZ2WUhmkOV6_iD1HfQarb3YOwZeFr3tfDyNcFHpGzmCLWKW8G0kaUmZ3H6Dj1D7fJDPkELMF1l6Bvk3gczaob6SZ-qjxW9LZvVH-xfPoNOBpId7TIAHg8blFG-rwV-0De6DqGIg/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6wMaDkZ2WUhmkOV6_iD1HfQarb3YOwZeFr3tfDyNcFHpGzmCLWKW8G0kaUmZ3H6Dj1D7fJDPkELMF1l6Bvk3gczaob6SZ-qjxW9LZvVH-xfPoNOBpId7TIAHg8blFG-rwV-0De6DqGIg/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Should I click "no?"</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The party pulled the door open and headed into the tomb. Statues of Solamnic Knights stood in the main hall. The eyes of the statues seemed to follow the party as they entered. A strange mist flowed across the floor and covered the ground.<br />
<br />
Taking the lead, the Solamnic Knight in the party, Lord Benjamin, headed toward one of the hallways. Before he could reached the hallway, however, the mist at his feet collected in front of him. The mist formed into a spectral shape of a man with a sword.<br />
<br />
<i>"Know this, knight...you will face many tests in these tombs!"</i> the spectral knight told Lord Benjamin. <i>"Only those true of heart will pass the tests."</i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZHr650CCFqnSNSXftD96xl6YQ9WrhSYhYcT1I3X4LD0BT1AIYmOulAKma58H_oOWRYhQ_wUzPMJPO0G9iPOVeIVuWn_CSD6atARufUdAbDkLrT9X0v8CvoCl9eH-XMozzJh9KoT_6fo/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZHr650CCFqnSNSXftD96xl6YQ9WrhSYhYcT1I3X4LD0BT1AIYmOulAKma58H_oOWRYhQ_wUzPMJPO0G9iPOVeIVuWn_CSD6atARufUdAbDkLrT9X0v8CvoCl9eH-XMozzJh9KoT_6fo/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No. My life is my life. My honor is my honor.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i>"You have begun the test of honor. Remember the oath. My honor is my life."</i><br />
<br />
Lord Benjamin reached out to the knight, but the vision faded as the mists fell back to the ground. The rest of the party came up behind him, vowing that they would accompany him on the tests. Nodding, Lord Benjamin lead them deeper into the tomb.<br />
<i> </i><br />
Whispering voices followed the party as they headed further into the tomb. A chill flowed in the air. It seemed to the party almost as though the stones themselves were alive.<br />
<br />
The mist ahead formed into the shape of a face. A man stared out from the mist and regarded the party with judgmental eyes. <i>"What would you sacrifice to help those in need, knight?" </i>the booming voice asked. <i>"Your money? Your possessions? Or your very life? Choose now!"</i><br />
<br />
Without hesitation, Lord Benjamin spoke: <i>"All three."</i><br />
<br />
A hearty laugh filled the tomb as the spectral face grew larger. <i>"Brave knight, I will spare you the loss of your life and take only some of your money and possessions." </i> A flash of light surrounded the party as the face disappeared. <br />
<br />
The kender, Wil Dhargon, suddenly realized that a few of his precious maps were gone. He uttered a few words about how if knights were really honorable, they wouldn't take away his hard-earned maps. Tamera Beldon quieted him down.<br />
<br />
As the party continued forward, they were once again approached by a spectral figure. Behind him, two swords hung on the wall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga46olrbXXoVFgBWGb6GjlFL2t9DdY5C4S2JM9xWG_TcMFPUc-UOnxFGT_virdD-uGCJTEUEj3MJhp3oIo6Zc85hguzqGXzjNzyKg7M98eKPjdCoQ-OxrSYH_RY5iZiawfdy3dLWIgHkg/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga46olrbXXoVFgBWGb6GjlFL2t9DdY5C4S2JM9xWG_TcMFPUc-UOnxFGT_virdD-uGCJTEUEj3MJhp3oIo6Zc85hguzqGXzjNzyKg7M98eKPjdCoQ-OxrSYH_RY5iZiawfdy3dLWIgHkg/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If I take both, can I go backward?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The spectral figure told Lord Benjamin that he could take only one sword, and that it should be the one on the right. Again, without hesitation, Lord Benjamin did as he was told and took the sword on the right.<br />
<br />
The sword, as it turned out, glowed with magical power. Indeed, the party had never seen a sword so powerful or well-designed. It was marked by glowing runes and seemed to be constructed of the strongest metal they had ever encountered. Was this the treasure of the tomb that the party had been sent to recover?<br />
<br />
A vision suddenly appeared in the mists. A man was surrounded by a pack of wild wolves. He had nothing to defend himself with. The wolves were about to tear him to shreds. The spectral knight appeared again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippVpsZyfrunuERWQd0_835aMmplmVybv9dXYgGiS7BU3ToaKYgXZNPQhkphZZD0WUINbStyaX9d8s-N1YHQs14blXcP1VgGvS_c4bMkEgK2AWujPCGM11lKWgSFhHnVofqnshM1cMTJI/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippVpsZyfrunuERWQd0_835aMmplmVybv9dXYgGiS7BU3ToaKYgXZNPQhkphZZD0WUINbStyaX9d8s-N1YHQs14blXcP1VgGvS_c4bMkEgK2AWujPCGM11lKWgSFhHnVofqnshM1cMTJI/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once again, I am tempted to pick "no" and run.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>"This man will die without a weapon. He may die even with one. Will you give him the sword that we gave you?"</i> the spectral knight asked Lord Benjamin.<br />
<br />
With a deep sigh, Lord Benjamin tossed the sword into the mists at the man who was surrounded by the wolves. Spotting the sword, the man picked it up and went back to engage the wolves. As he did, the mists fell apart and the vision faded.<br />
<br />
The party were shocked. They demanded to know what happened.<br />
<br />
<i>"What happened does not matter. Whether the man lives or dies does not matter. What matters is that you have successfully proven your honor and passed the first test. The test of battle begins now."</i> With that the spectral knight disappeared.<br />
<br />
The party pressed forward. Thaddeus Durin suggested that they prepare their weapons. After all, a test of battle probably involved some fighting. There was no sense in being unprepared.<br />
<br />
The party entered a room full of treasure. Wil Dhargon's eyes lit up immediately. Voices in the mists warned the party that they should touch nothing and take nothing. Wil Dhargon pointed out that his precious maps were stolen from him, so it was fair that he take something.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkSP8oymoRKvuvpKo5VzbqJ4Sae2GddnRo_xfKwtdApTZRqDn6YZBVZDuh-rRqA_et0b-AsK2w2IY7Qp5p12KwUUhDovsDos0yc6J-9aRWWZF-QlCRtxICmY0U9Nmwzj1BAvzbvosN8E/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkSP8oymoRKvuvpKo5VzbqJ4Sae2GddnRo_xfKwtdApTZRqDn6YZBVZDuh-rRqA_et0b-AsK2w2IY7Qp5p12KwUUhDovsDos0yc6J-9aRWWZF-QlCRtxICmY0U9Nmwzj1BAvzbvosN8E/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I won't take nothing. I'll take everything.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The party expressed quite forcefully how much they would appreciate it if the kender didn't touch anything at all. And that he should keep his hands to himself at all times. Possibly in his pockets. Or behind his back.<br />
<br />
As the party soon discovered, others had tried to take the treasures in the room. A group of Draconians had been turned to stone, their faces twisted in horror as they grabbed at the treasures in the room. From the items that the Draconians had dropped on the floor, it was obvious that they had not not been in the room for long.<br />
<br />
Sir Karl had been right. The Draconians knew about the tomb. <br />
<br />
Moving quickly through the treasure rooms and keeping the kender in check, the party discovered something else...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zmrm8mCEaCKMxYsUtngMlqYEH-W_5MNluyAi8Uh2IFahc4TrLztDi_-XWK6AN7WLOd-qXcgnPzA5wip9QaDnPgrcCBTavy7AAE97vZtIBMoUtkyMJu7Wm6Hw6kxNxkSVZkiCYy9irSY/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zmrm8mCEaCKMxYsUtngMlqYEH-W_5MNluyAi8Uh2IFahc4TrLztDi_-XWK6AN7WLOd-qXcgnPzA5wip9QaDnPgrcCBTavy7AAE97vZtIBMoUtkyMJu7Wm6Hw6kxNxkSVZkiCYy9irSY/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are some smart skeletons.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Armored skeletal knights awaited them. One of them raised his hand, and on cue to his signal, stone rained down on the party from above. The party was nearly buried under large stones. Janessa Waylan was hurt badly enough that she could barely defend herself as the skeletal knights rushed forward.<br />
<br />
The party, still reeling from the trap, managed to pull themselves together and face the skeletons head on. Tamera attempted to repel them with the power of Mishakal, goddess of healing and restoration. But the skeletal knights ignored the attempts of the party priestess to destroy them.<br />
<br />
Swords and arrows did little damage to the creatures. The magical flail that Tamera had seemed to do the best damage against them as it crushed into their brittle bones. The battle was hard, but eventually the party prevailed.<br />
<br />
Badly wounded, the party attempted to rest and gather their strength. But the mists formed into horrible visions and the party were assailed by noise. They would find no rest within the tomb it seemed.<br />
<br />
Perhaps, if they were lucky, that was all there was to the test of battle and they would not face any additional foes. Perhaps they had already passed the test. Just to be safe, Tamera prayed to Mishakal for the power to heal some of the wounds in the party. She managed to get Janessa completely healed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis12_Z7iIWmN7P9h6uClRmwCY6SxQ3_iGmwnQJE19ak3yKGb_H6XWodqqWTF5MLduwqvmMRt4LmUOjXXlQ7r0eMZ6wT_lyc6sj-HWXJAi-sxEwOn1V5x-svAtR23FrqIB1ksaF-2GQbVQ/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis12_Z7iIWmN7P9h6uClRmwCY6SxQ3_iGmwnQJE19ak3yKGb_H6XWodqqWTF5MLduwqvmMRt4LmUOjXXlQ7r0eMZ6wT_lyc6sj-HWXJAi-sxEwOn1V5x-svAtR23FrqIB1ksaF-2GQbVQ/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flee! Flee!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It proved to be a good thing that she had taken the time to do so. Because very soon thereafter, a pack of undead dragons appeared from the mists. Lord Benjamin, knowing that in order to pass this test the party would need to fight instead of flee, rushed at them, hoping it was the right choice.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1z8_UZQd2eewhqLat4aJZBKKeMLbe7AiVe-uMJIH70vyaK-dMHNnmKuF4SWIjtrlr-iMbbPUysv_HOJSmXauE-5dZ1QwKRn23zgfuMI280y4Kiz-oUV0Mcnk3_R1KzQo1X1vw_kUhKG8/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1z8_UZQd2eewhqLat4aJZBKKeMLbe7AiVe-uMJIH70vyaK-dMHNnmKuF4SWIjtrlr-iMbbPUysv_HOJSmXauE-5dZ1QwKRn23zgfuMI280y4Kiz-oUV0Mcnk3_R1KzQo1X1vw_kUhKG8/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not shown: Another dragon! There were four of them!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Janessa decided to immediately put her magical prowess to work by casting multiple Fireball spells. The rest of the party fought with everything that they had. As it happened, the dragons were not nearly as hardy as their living counterparts. Their bones rattled to the ground quickly as the party damaged them.<br />
<br />
A spectral knight appeared as the dragon bones faded into the mists. <i>"You have passed the test of battle. Remember, a Solamnic Knight never flees and never refuses to battle evil. You will now face the test of fear."</i><br />
<br />
As the spectral knight disappeared, large rings of fire appeared in the doorway ahead. Voices in the mists shouted at the party to flee for their lives before they were consumed by fire. The mist even retreated from the fire.<br />
<br />
<i>"I am not afraid,"</i> Lord Benjamin said. As the party watched, unsure of what to think, Lord Benjamin walked straight through the rings of fire. The fire burned his skin and he howled in pain, but he pressed forward. Nearly dead, he stumbled through the fire to the other side and fell to the ground. Had he made a mistake?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhED2r2k6cFKEpgwfnfzaqkYvkliPAdRE0CWaFdgKEaGQIPF_mNm6b3r6e6NY1Vb__0NrLRM7cVNk0-mxTw5KgtAvtodhxINCqMUePbsNQUbkOVoUyGZ66BCh1vptt7bXJSwnCBZ2Okxw/s1600/start_012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhED2r2k6cFKEpgwfnfzaqkYvkliPAdRE0CWaFdgKEaGQIPF_mNm6b3r6e6NY1Vb__0NrLRM7cVNk0-mxTw5KgtAvtodhxINCqMUePbsNQUbkOVoUyGZ66BCh1vptt7bXJSwnCBZ2Okxw/s640/start_012.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These guys all look the same.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A spectral knight appeared suddenly. He reached out with his hands and dismissed the fire. Then, he touched Lord Benjamin on the head and healed him. With another pass of his hands, the rest of the party was healed as well.<br />
<br />
<i>"I am the spirit of Sir Dargaard. Finally, a knight of virtue has reached me. Now receive our charge that I might rest in peace."</i><br />
<br />
A magical suit of Solamnic Plate Mail armor appeared along with a glowing sword. Lord Benjamin reached out and took them. They seemed almost built to fit him.<br />
<br />
<i>"Go now, knight. Use these items in your fight against evil. It begins sooner than you think,"</i> Sir Dargaard's spirit said before fading back into the mists.<br />
<br />
A sudden noise sounded behind the party. They swirled around to find...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_bWbUukbzncayqhZ_GOuwwvTWIvx45XS4iW5r34Hj1gYa0sbei33QyNf9p_-LvnyOoW1DB5S3skwzCRQdehQExkD0q40giEAjkZHSGk8hR5lAnEimDKrNKCmp75_WNQykvk93sfmHbE/s1600/start_013.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_bWbUukbzncayqhZ_GOuwwvTWIvx45XS4iW5r34Hj1gYa0sbei33QyNf9p_-LvnyOoW1DB5S3skwzCRQdehQExkD0q40giEAjkZHSGk8hR5lAnEimDKrNKCmp75_WNQykvk93sfmHbE/s640/start_013.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, really? Is that what you think is going to happen?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kapak Draconians rushed into the room, flanked by two strange Draconians that the party had never seen. They demanded the items from Lord Benjamin as they rushed to attack.<br />
<br />
The party brought their weapons down upon the Draconians, reducing the Kapaks to pools of acid. But, the remaining Draconians (which the party later learned were called Bozak) had quite a nasty surprise up their sleeves.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3yVOg5qaSOde6rZ8-oGJvbarfTLuXLtaxzT9fBXEZpNJiQz4RY3m6GZXCht-LIl2cAFuJp_Rt9Q2QEQNEn_vNflMDSnkPZ5TEPdPwwNb6mXntq4v02WN7n7lpyGQatSahl3Rkl6Maso/s1600/start_014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3yVOg5qaSOde6rZ8-oGJvbarfTLuXLtaxzT9fBXEZpNJiQz4RY3m6GZXCht-LIl2cAFuJp_Rt9Q2QEQNEn_vNflMDSnkPZ5TEPdPwwNb6mXntq4v02WN7n7lpyGQatSahl3Rkl6Maso/s640/start_014.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winged Draconians everywhere!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Not only did the Bozaks fight harder and nastier than their Kapak cousins, their very bones exploded when they were killed. As Thaddeus stuck his sword in one, he was suddenly enveloped in shards of flying bone fragments. Wil Dhargon was gravely wounded by another, as he hit it with his hoopak. Even in death, the Bozaks were dangerous!<br />
<br />
One the Draconians were dealt with, the party quickly left the tomb and headed back to the outpost to report to Sir Karl.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIY6SrVEPA38b8WtS2ZyRoaNc1F5USqDMo5FJhn3zW2DTQm3dyVYYYX9nv4StfsVhOir8eyVPTKxSiGfi_XAPWVpmVe-C_Ckkko_6GsBGDd_YggcPQdYSQ36ZZHGAjGmzCIqwzzsACNo/s1600/start_015.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIY6SrVEPA38b8WtS2ZyRoaNc1F5USqDMo5FJhn3zW2DTQm3dyVYYYX9nv4StfsVhOir8eyVPTKxSiGfi_XAPWVpmVe-C_Ckkko_6GsBGDd_YggcPQdYSQ36ZZHGAjGmzCIqwzzsACNo/s640/start_015.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just once, I want this guy to greet the party with a "hello" instead of getting straight to business.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sir Karl was glad to hear that the party had defeated the Draconians and recovered the items from the tomb. He then showed them a message that was intercepted by the forces of good. It read: <i>"We have contacted a traitor at the renegade ogres' base. We can slip in unobserved and slay the renegade leaders. If we are not successful, beware. Our spy tells us that the renegades might try to ally with the forces of good. Their knowledge of Kernen makes them dangerous."</i><br />
<br />
Sir Karl told the party that they would need to investigate this matter.<br />
<br />
<br />
UP NEXT: The party follows the trail of the message <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-38508419002061257912012-04-06T20:22:00.001-04:002012-04-06T20:22:47.605-04:00STILL HERE!Just a quick update for those interested: I'm still here. As I've
mentioned before on this blog, I sometimes get buried under school work,
and with the end of the semester approaching, it was bound to happen.
Two large projects are coming due (one for Financial Accounting and
another for Database Management). I'm not excited about either.
Believe me, I'd rather be working on this blog!<br />
<br />
Even still, I expect I will be able to post sometime next week. So, until then...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-51161388613861501722012-03-23T12:56:00.002-04:002012-03-23T12:57:28.540-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: STORMING GARGATH KEEPWhen we last left the party, they were in search of a powerful magical item called a dragonlance. Rumors were circulating that one could be found somewhere in Gargath Keep. The party had fought their way to the entrance of the keep.<br />
<br />
As they opened the doors, they found...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjuNWBjZxNa1_XfILDXTXwBF1LpmmFYxnOxUX4bNMIq7w0qTgiyf9c9gHo0r1AirpBlwTJLEWEbAtrCQpvDtt_E89PNTDiTSgU1FrVZIrxuiePtHmlKUtSE2kE5-D2EkE_zdSTHrNV5w/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjuNWBjZxNa1_XfILDXTXwBF1LpmmFYxnOxUX4bNMIq7w0qTgiyf9c9gHo0r1AirpBlwTJLEWEbAtrCQpvDtt_E89PNTDiTSgU1FrVZIrxuiePtHmlKUtSE2kE5-D2EkE_zdSTHrNV5w/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who didn't see this coming?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Guards rushed to the attack. Apparently, they didn't catch wind that the group of guards just outside the door had fled very quickly once they realized one of the members of the party could cast a mean <i>Fireball </i>spell. But, it would be a lesson they would learn very quickly, as Janessa released one upon them and ended their attempt to stop the party pretty abruptly.<br />
<br />
Realizing that the keep was several stories tall, the party started looking around for some clue as to where the dragonlance might be located. And where the mysterious entity known as Myrtani could be located. He seemed to be the one behind all the recent troubles, so the party was definitely interested in finding him.<br />
<br />
During their search, the party came across a group of humans who were practicing their fighting skills against each other.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTBnfEpnUqoTEI0QM1qah0crlFFBfUF6NmHtNe2W6cOzppTeg8Spdo3C6DQgPWf9sED0vc6kYF7qQ0FUznLJZCbyLsPl_Q4YgOFKWrZuZTu-4_AAKJalU2hOiat-hfRnbCGekw8G03CU/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTBnfEpnUqoTEI0QM1qah0crlFFBfUF6NmHtNe2W6cOzppTeg8Spdo3C6DQgPWf9sED0vc6kYF7qQ0FUznLJZCbyLsPl_Q4YgOFKWrZuZTu-4_AAKJalU2hOiat-hfRnbCGekw8G03CU/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't think you'll find it as enjoyable as you think...but, go for it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For some reason, the humans started laughing at the party and mocking them.<br />
<br />
<i>"I wouldn't be laughing too hard, with a face like that," </i>Wil Dhargon shouted at them. <i>"Besides, I've seen one-armed goblin children who had better fighting skills than you."</i><br />
<br />
Angered by the kender's taunt, the humans rushed at the party. The irritation from his words bothered them so much, they failed to notice the other members of the party surrounding them when they attempted to strangle the kender to death. The fight was over in a heartbeat.<br />
<br />
<i>"They were awfully rude," </i>Wil said, as the party left the room.<br />
<br />
Minutes passed, as the party continued to try to find their way through the massive keep. Eventually, they spotted a stairway going up and headed toward it.<br />
<br />
As they reached it, they noticed a man huddled in the corner. When they approached him, they noticed that he bore the symbols of Gargath upon his tattered clothing. He claimed to be the Castellian of the keep.<br />
<br />
<i>"Thank Paladine you're here. They've taken everything! My poor family, my friends and retainers. Gone. There's an Aurak who seems to be in charge. They call him Myrtani. He's had his minions scouring the keep. He's looking for my dragonlance!"</i><br />
<br />
So, Myrtani was an Aurak Draconian? Perhaps the same one the party had encountered near Throtl, who disappeared in a flash of light?<br />
<br />
Hearing this, the party directed the Castellian toward the exit, urging him to get to safety. Once he headed down the hallway, they bounded up the stairs.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-RaPj16acQf0J7oGuLUgE_muFAoYIFobLIPzouVbyxsTlXA8QWF_-lVbNfr0TUavl5-BlSUV4nAlRKXsi4MUeQUEaWQn8kByTXlAMjX-mEG5QhpbasQfcVkxZs8745CYy4vPC_7qy68/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-RaPj16acQf0J7oGuLUgE_muFAoYIFobLIPzouVbyxsTlXA8QWF_-lVbNfr0TUavl5-BlSUV4nAlRKXsi4MUeQUEaWQn8kByTXlAMjX-mEG5QhpbasQfcVkxZs8745CYy4vPC_7qy68/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More eggs?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Up the stairs, the party found themselves in a large staging area where Baaz and Kapak Draconians were packing up Copper Dragon eggs into boxes and preparing them for transport. Near the back of the room, an Aurak Draconian stood marveling at a large glowing lance.<br />
<br />
The party had found Myrtani and the dragonlance!<br />
<br />
Drawing weapons, the party headed in to attack. But Myrtani spotted them. He shouted at the other draconians to stop the party and headed up another flight of stairs. The draconians turned and pushed aside the eggs to follow their leaders' order.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrXzLxFc6Dmog7GAv6XtEV7kf_qiDBdyMRtF79ANSjy0L1S1FuwF-SzulMGa4IcFNQLGEwwbz8XWN6n9ybvWTm9TS3_1RYYEjEhOmXN-76av21ZmwBys4qKYMhJfxN4kPhNMcTIXlzsg/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrXzLxFc6Dmog7GAv6XtEV7kf_qiDBdyMRtF79ANSjy0L1S1FuwF-SzulMGa4IcFNQLGEwwbz8XWN6n9ybvWTm9TS3_1RYYEjEhOmXN-76av21ZmwBys4qKYMhJfxN4kPhNMcTIXlzsg/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No one ever wants to discuss things peacefully.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A clash of steel rang through the keep as the party engaged the draconians in fierce combat. And, even though the party was determined to get past them, the draconians were managing to do what their leader wanted: slow the party down to allow him time to escape.<br />
<br />
The draconians fought with everything they had, but the party eventually came out victorious. As the last of the Kapak Draconians melted into a pool of acid, Tamera Beldon shouted for everyone to give chase after Myrtani.<br />
<br />
Making a note to return for the dragon eggs, the members of the party rushed up a spiraling stairwell, heading toward the roof of the keep.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlyaQCDBmFJ6N8IdT9SIDfMZbEJ71IFU44IrOJAVeV4zio7fFC5GRfQ5dEkrnx6uVSERSdRrTu-Fv7UbFg7yMp3mLMuilnYEZ_P_48oULMCSDOM3tfW-6BNTXxxrQnz9ReZ705vf-SH4/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlyaQCDBmFJ6N8IdT9SIDfMZbEJ71IFU44IrOJAVeV4zio7fFC5GRfQ5dEkrnx6uVSERSdRrTu-Fv7UbFg7yMp3mLMuilnYEZ_P_48oULMCSDOM3tfW-6BNTXxxrQnz9ReZ705vf-SH4/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well....damn...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The party reached the top of the keep in time to see Myrtani lifting off and flying away on the back of a large red dragon. His evil laugh filled the sky as he raised the dragonlance and shook it at the party.<br />
<br />
The party didn't have time to feel sorry for themselves, though. Myrtani had left them a gift...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1dEVJXOdUEZfpcyuKSsweWp2Dm40xQz_nsjnyZmeLPjm8h8ZwoizXh79sPMj5_Pu8Z6cgLU5J-wgG3VhOYhifvV_5dndmo3lm_HP37Zc6YF7Ux7JZogdf4nUWDR0Sp2Ov8zJMyG_aw4/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1dEVJXOdUEZfpcyuKSsweWp2Dm40xQz_nsjnyZmeLPjm8h8ZwoizXh79sPMj5_Pu8Z6cgLU5J-wgG3VhOYhifvV_5dndmo3lm_HP37Zc6YF7Ux7JZogdf4nUWDR0Sp2Ov8zJMyG_aw4/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish I had dragons following <i>my</i> orders.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As he flew away, he shouted into the air. Large shadows fell over the party as three black dragons descended from the clouds and crashed down upon the roof of the keep. With a roar, they spread their wings and charged the party.<br />
<br />
Thaddeus Durin tried to meet the dragons during their charge, but one of the creatures stopped short and spit acid on him. He moved aside as the acid started to eat through his armor and burn his skin. The dragons rushed straight at the party.<br />
<br />
Not willing to succumb to their fear, the party stood their ground and met the dragons in combat. Perhaps it was determination or just sheer luck, but the party took two of the dragons down almost immediately. The third stopped his charge, trying not to overestimate the party's power.<br />
<br />
Thaddeus, who had moved during the dragon's charge, came up behind the creature and stuck a sword in it's neck. The creature roared once, tried to shake Thaddeus off, and fell over dead.<br />
<br />
Despite the victory, the party knew that ultimately they had lost the true battle. Myrtani had escaped, taking the dragonlance with him. They needed to let Sir Karl know as soon as possible.<br />
<br />
The party headed out of the keep, grabbing the dragon eggs the draconians had left behind. They headed south toward the outpost.<br />
<br />
Once there, they found Sir Karl awaiting them with even more bad news...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO_7QBF_djrcqGY5vhx-ZfYbt3-paErhNO_33X2so3WKfC0QnFDwy9CxEHQfRt8xPxvTw6CYiT29MXXemt1ZGHrHXD6vGeNpfGyZCBR3eLF7d_Cn1koP101KEmzn7j1YORByj-BV0UyYE/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO_7QBF_djrcqGY5vhx-ZfYbt3-paErhNO_33X2so3WKfC0QnFDwy9CxEHQfRt8xPxvTw6CYiT29MXXemt1ZGHrHXD6vGeNpfGyZCBR3eLF7d_Cn1koP101KEmzn7j1YORByj-BV0UyYE/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just once, I would like Sir Karl to greet us, tell us everything is fine, and invite us to tea.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sir Karl told the party that the tomb of Sir Dargaard has been discovered by evil forces. He recounted a tale about Sir Dargaard being a noble Knight of Solamnia, who had possessed an item of great power. He used this device to defeat evil at every turn until he was betrayed and murdered. The device was buried with him, and now it seemed as though the draconians had found out about it.<br />
<br />
Sir Karl gave the party instructions on how to reach the tomb and urged them to go and check it out. The party, still licking their wounds over the defeat handed to them by Myrtani, said they would do their best.<br />
<br />
Sir Karl responded by telling them: <i>"You will be happy to know that Caramon has contacted our elite units in Solamnia. The Council of Knights themselves will lead them into the coming battles. I will be certain to mention your impressive record to them when they arrive."</i><br />
<br />
The party felt a little better, knowing that Sir Karl had faith in them, at least...<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>UP NEXT: The party travels to the tomb of Sir Dargaard.</i><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-88454558646689058972012-03-23T08:23:00.003-04:002012-03-23T08:23:50.555-04:00LOOKING FOR FEEDBACKJust a quick question:<br />
<br />
Most of the CRPG blogs out there write about their adventures from the perspective of the player, talk about the mechanics of the game, etc. In order to try to be different, I approached Champions of Krynn through the eyes of the adventuring party. But, I'm not sure if it's working out.<br />
<br />
What do you prefer? Do you prefer straight reviews or do you enjoy reading the story as seen through the eyes of the characters in the game?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-83059372674972756472012-03-22T16:15:00.001-04:002012-03-22T16:15:22.582-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: GARGATH AWAITSAfter having successfully returned from Throtl with the liberated dragon eggs, Sir Karl Gaardsen ordered the party to head out toward another outpost near the area of Gargath. Packing up what they could carry, the party headed across treacherous mountains.<br />
<br />
It took several days of travel, but the party eventually arrived at the second outpost. Once they did, they heard from the guards that Sir Karl was awaiting them in his office. Wasting no time, they headed in to see him, curious as to how he could have beaten them to the outpost. Wil Dhargon suggested that maybe Sir Karl was a multi-planar creature who could teleport at will, but the rest of the party told him to be quiet.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYRtyVMCpK2fu4BhGTm_899SpSCjKikmTlz-rLYC9gdJXwFvpBq7z4OVyybYzJYuR3ArwHCWE4c4FiThnTIF4juTHFhzYdkXdc0bGd6nZCXqlGGhTe7P4Ilj8m2G7xBJ8cotatCATcoo/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYRtyVMCpK2fu4BhGTm_899SpSCjKikmTlz-rLYC9gdJXwFvpBq7z4OVyybYzJYuR3ArwHCWE4c4FiThnTIF4juTHFhzYdkXdc0bGd6nZCXqlGGhTe7P4Ilj8m2G7xBJ8cotatCATcoo/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trip was fine...thanks for asking...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sir Karl told the party that while he had been awaiting them, he had uncovered information about a Dragonlance being hidden somewhere in Gargath. The party had heard of such legendary weapons before, but never dreamed they would have the opportunity to actually find one, let alone use one.<br />
<br />
The party stayed in the outpost long enough to memorize important spells and rest themselves. By the next morning, they headed north, toward Gargath. Once they reached the main gates, the discovered that they were guarded by human soldiers. Seedy ones.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOm0C1_UKT2VEneHR0MCuAXziPntH16MkIYGRdqFEB9h_-4lPsWJTLZ9k9UjTqw5WIuxLWkPhGK-IbWhs0x9eDND_ooWPe7gu7oBnjEwjPXCgy4g3gW2leQ-tUAfi_kS6mY2z2in_Z1U/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOm0C1_UKT2VEneHR0MCuAXziPntH16MkIYGRdqFEB9h_-4lPsWJTLZ9k9UjTqw5WIuxLWkPhGK-IbWhs0x9eDND_ooWPe7gu7oBnjEwjPXCgy4g3gW2leQ-tUAfi_kS6mY2z2in_Z1U/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My business is none of your business, so mind your own business or I'll give you the business...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The guards demanded to know what the party was doing in Gargath. Thinking quickly, Thaddeus Durin claimed that the party was merely a group of tradesmen. But, the guards seemed really itchy and wanted to know what kind of tradesmen they were. Lord Benjamin started to go for his weapon, but Wil Dhargon politely told the guards that the party were stone workers and general laborers before he could finish drawing it.<br />
<br />
To everyone's surprise, this seemed to satisfy the guards, who opened the gate and allowed the party inside. Wil Dhargon whistled a jaunty tune as he lead the rest of the party toward the streets of Gargath. Even still, it was obvious that the guards were suspicious.<br />
<br />
Once they were out of sight of the guards, a man slipped up to the party. <i>"Finally, you're here! I got word that Sir Karl was going to send someone to check this place out. I've been waiting for you for days. Come with me."</i> The man headed away. When the party hesitated, the man suggested it might be safer if they followed him rather than wander around the streets. Reluctantly, the party followed him into an abandoned building.<br />
<br />
Once there, the man told the party more about what had happened. <i>"Gargath was overrun about a week ago. There were only a few of us here at the time trying to rebuild after the War of the Lance. Draconians and evil forces snuck in at night and captured the Keep. Since then they have been bringing in prisoners and putting them to work. They make us wear these hoods to keep track of us."</i> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI03BDxB_DB2_vS2GifdOtWkJ0xc9FvMv80aoqrxPwzeEilD-GPtNLlsK68FhbSpbUzpYYjL0jHE93aii2tqW24BhxAvZY4IoiDMMuiceQlCuGGmxgKqb7sDc08Zu1rHR6FpcVrVoej2c/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI03BDxB_DB2_vS2GifdOtWkJ0xc9FvMv80aoqrxPwzeEilD-GPtNLlsK68FhbSpbUzpYYjL0jHE93aii2tqW24BhxAvZY4IoiDMMuiceQlCuGGmxgKqb7sDc08Zu1rHR6FpcVrVoej2c/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to say no, but my heart says yes...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The man shoved red hoods toward the party and told them to put them
on. Figuring it was best to fit in, the party agreed and put the red
hoods on. Then, the man wished the party luck, told them where the local inn was, and slipped back out onto the streets.<br />
<br />
A few minutes later, the party headed back out into the streets. It didn't take long for them to notice something unusual.<br />
<br />
A group of Draconians, different than the ones the party encountered in Throtl, headed toward a large wooden structure built in front of the keep. They disappeared through what appeared to be a solid wall. <i>"Must be a secret door there," </i>Janessa Waylan suggested. The party headed in that direction.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUCVRpt-QKVOzoCdNVIY3WEyVafKdspnNN2FFu7JCYYjbIkcGkmyH5Un7kKjJeNKqurpBr5F9rFmNZWK48hflugKU0ihXVZmMD6sJUK8wUzsBt_5ktBVmYCFFgrwTnFBmzcjBEttlkpc/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUCVRpt-QKVOzoCdNVIY3WEyVafKdspnNN2FFu7JCYYjbIkcGkmyH5Un7kKjJeNKqurpBr5F9rFmNZWK48hflugKU0ihXVZmMD6sJUK8wUzsBt_5ktBVmYCFFgrwTnFBmzcjBEttlkpc/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many choices...so little time...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As the party got near, a group of Kapak Draconians gathered around the wall. Several of them were licking their swords with long forked tongues. They demanded to know what the party was doing near the wooden structure. Using his full kender charm, Wil Dhargon attempted to bluff the draconians into believing that the party was there to do some manual labor. He also mentioned that they might cut their tongues badly if they kept licking their swords like they were some kind of metal ice cream cone.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, the draconians weren't in the mood for foolishness. They hissed loudly, spread their wings wide and leaped at the party.<br />
<br />
The draconians attacked with a fury. It soon became obvious why they had been licking their blades...to cover them with the natural venom in their mouths! Lord Benjamin felt the sting of a blade touch his arm. The poison overtook him and paralyzed him, allowing the Kapaks time to incapacitate him!<br />
<br />
Thaddeus rallied the rest of the party together and helped to turn the tide. His blade struck true, and a Kapak fell to the ground. But, to the horror of the party members, the draconian quickly dissolved into a pool of acid! Thaddeus jumped back to avoid being burned.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWLDbvTv74RDCdRgzs7R9cewIGtUEcxHK2lWN-Mxvx3macPyo-QxAEA5fsQalu5XOtHyTg7Em9b2BlMXRHVjmFqn7SMaPeMG0xXta2FJ51J07Ei7qC75m5XwVJk_MRnnaNlFPAgQ9jVs/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWLDbvTv74RDCdRgzs7R9cewIGtUEcxHK2lWN-Mxvx3macPyo-QxAEA5fsQalu5XOtHyTg7Em9b2BlMXRHVjmFqn7SMaPeMG0xXta2FJ51J07Ei7qC75m5XwVJk_MRnnaNlFPAgQ9jVs/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thaddeus...almost tripping on acid...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The draconians won another victory when Kavina was hit by their paralyzing poisons. Like Lord Benjamin, she was incapacitated. A third of the party was down! The rest of the party considered retreat...but instead pressed forward.<br />
<br />
Determination and luck ruled, and the party managed to bring the rest of the draconians down. Out of breath, the party gathered together the wounded party members. They hadn't been expecting such a powerful enemy and they needed to head back to the outpost to rethink their strategy.<br />
<br />
<i>"Hey! There </i>is <i>a secret door here!</i>" Wil Dhargon proclaimed proudly, showing the party where the wooden wall swung open. <i>"Wait! Where are you going? We can catch them by surprise! Come back!"</i><br />
<br />
The party left Gargath in a hurry, making great haste back to the outpost. Once there, Lord Benjamin and Kavina Do'Arden were healed and brought back to their previous good health. Janessa Waylan stopped in to see if she could learn a new spell, and was happy that she managed to master the <i>Fireball</i> spell while there. Certainly, a powerful spell like that would be handy against dangerous foes like the Kapak Draconians.<br />
<i> </i><br />
The party stopped in to see Sir Karl. He urged them to head back to Gargath and continue the mission. He also asked them for a favor.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDIAPd5O-GuhmPLrtNLLNQLuI6dvqzSMy8JHcYrF0mOUdP1LyDmsKOvT2xXOHM_aES9LB74jxTTqTySnQovd7zcHSzun7S5ZUi0n4ncGF20F2QYRYg3uIS_TI8weNdnEHrrN7S4ceYUQ/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDIAPd5O-GuhmPLrtNLLNQLuI6dvqzSMy8JHcYrF0mOUdP1LyDmsKOvT2xXOHM_aES9LB74jxTTqTySnQovd7zcHSzun7S5ZUi0n4ncGF20F2QYRYg3uIS_TI8weNdnEHrrN7S4ceYUQ/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You're welcome.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He asked them if they could retrieve a flower from a silver rose bush in Jelek as a personal favor, so that he could give it as a gift. The party agreed, but said they had much more important things to do at the moment. Sir Karl said it should not interfere with their main mission anyway.<br />
<br />
Renewed, the party headed out to Gargath again. This time, the guards at the gate were gone and they had no problems getting in. They made a quick path back to the wooden structure in front of the keep. Slipping inside, they headed toward the main doors of the keep, hoping to catch their enemies by surprise.<br />
<br />
As luck would have it, a group of people bearing the symbols of the evil goddess Takhisis came through the main doors. <i>"Myrtani awaits our return. We should hurry."</i><br />
<br />
There was the name 'Myrtani' again. The party had heard it before, of course. But, now, it was obvious that Myrtani was here in Gargath. But, they didn't have time to ponder this information; because the followers of Takhisis drew their weapons and engaged them.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MGGJSB_lbjjJHNcqORMx3ffFq0z9ZAlN6ChLTuEbiSmlnz3lrNQl1CQZ5o8AjKQTpKSFAYGJu0rGYVUL7Z9zRCer2cWMEPcvjUVVs6B3-vH4MvafiRLuXohhQB_ZRWhFNq8i7jPDN9o/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MGGJSB_lbjjJHNcqORMx3ffFq0z9ZAlN6ChLTuEbiSmlnz3lrNQl1CQZ5o8AjKQTpKSFAYGJu0rGYVUL7Z9zRCer2cWMEPcvjUVVs6B3-vH4MvafiRLuXohhQB_ZRWhFNq8i7jPDN9o/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch where you swing that sword, elf!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i> </i>Draconians rushed through the door to join them. In seconds, what had originally been a small force grew to a large one. The battle wasn't going to be easy.<br />
<br />
Or, was it? Janessa told everyone to stand back. Calling upon the forces of magic, she allowed a flame to come to her fingertips and sent it flying toward the enemy. Fire erupted all around them. They screamed in agony as the fire ended their lives.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJKuWfu3Eh1ObQ_6iWAJIkBfzMDBQxjLtVoDLMpg0OhgcdsUc9J9SNQGNZCKla1LGwUYdrjJP8eOS0sUYzNFkgr2wt_c8rPiSA396iCdS5rRmro8jqQT0NuS4EIf5ws5TV_ev4sRdUlk/s1600/start_011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJKuWfu3Eh1ObQ_6iWAJIkBfzMDBQxjLtVoDLMpg0OhgcdsUc9J9SNQGNZCKla1LGwUYdrjJP8eOS0sUYzNFkgr2wt_c8rPiSA396iCdS5rRmro8jqQT0NuS4EIf5ws5TV_ev4sRdUlk/s640/start_011.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire! Fire!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Seeing that their comrades had fallen to the powerful <i>Fireball</i> spell, the remaining draconians and followers of Takhisis turned and fled, heading back into the keep. The party headed in after them...<br />
<br />
UP NEXT: The party explores Gargath Keep in search of a legendary dragonlance!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-76414343405784007532012-03-16T17:18:00.001-04:002012-03-19T12:38:27.377-04:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: IN PURSUIT OF DRAGON EGGSPersonal Note:<i> </i><br />
<i>I would like to thank those of you who inspired me to keep going on this blog. For a while, I was so buried under work, I didn't think I'd ever see the other side of the tunnel. I think I learned an important lesson about not giving myself a deadline. Or something. Either way, it helped.</i><br />
<br />
When we last left the party, they were hot on the trail of a group Baaz Draconians and Hobgoblins that had fled into the catacombs of Throtl. The party, intent on stopping the forces of evil from escaping with the collection of bronze dragon eggs, had uncovered information about a mysterious entity called Myrtani.<br />
<br />
The party continued through the crumbling catacombs, despite Wil Dhargon's insistence that he was hungry and should stop to eat. The other members of the party told the kender that some things were more important than eating. Begrudgingly, the kender agreed, but not without making a few comments about starving to death and withering away into dust.<br />
<br />
As the pursuit continued, the party entered a room and were surprised to find a column of swirling multicolored lights! Never in their lives had they seen something so beautiful. The way the lights danced kept their attention drawn to it.<br />
<br />
Perhaps it was the hunger tearing at his stomach, but Wil Dhargon began to realize that something wasn't quite right. Using his hoopak, he poked at the column of lights, but found that his weapon passed right through. "It's an illusion!" he shouted. He jumped up and down, waving his hands in front of the faces of the party members, hoping they might snap out of their state of enthrallment.<br />
<br />
Annoyed at first, the party began to come back to their senses. Something was definitely off. It felt like...a trap...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxFlz1UBx7LL47cU1AG3ug8rkBsN0TpOeRyTNCiHa2x2W3QYJuYCVwqWT0bG9YZ_f2XAvavEYt3PBpXdFM7Z6goZx5tXVpRDIaKEgoGqkuxjpW_FZ8OvJcgmx0HKyQjPZwS2Ufdfo0F9o/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxFlz1UBx7LL47cU1AG3ug8rkBsN0TpOeRyTNCiHa2x2W3QYJuYCVwqWT0bG9YZ_f2XAvavEYt3PBpXdFM7Z6goZx5tXVpRDIaKEgoGqkuxjpW_FZ8OvJcgmx0HKyQjPZwS2Ufdfo0F9o/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's always a trap.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Enemy forces jumped to the attack as the lights disappeared. The party only barely had time to ready their weapons, as draconians fell upon them, hissing in rage. The enemy fought with ferocity, dealing damage to a few members of the party. Thaddeus Durin was incapacitated. He laid, bleeding on the floor until Tamera Beldon used her clerical abilities to seal his wounds.<br />
<br />
The party, knowing that they could not continue without some quick resting, stopped long enough to patch themselves up. Wil Dhargon took those few minutes to munch on some carrots he had stored in his backpack, offering them to anyone who would take them.<br />
<br />
Once the party was in slightly better shape, they continued onward. Eventually, they went down a flight of stairs and found a cave opening. From within the cave opening, they could hear Hobgoblins talking.<br />
<br />
One of them mentioned that a group of adventurers had infiltrated the catacombs and were after the eggs. Another one confidently suggested that the party would be stopped by dragons. He also mentioned that these same dragons made him uncomfortable because they were upset to be trapped in the heat. After that, the voices faded into the distance.<br />
<br />
The party entered the cave behind the voices...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mzuBI3DXWaiuqexGHkhxhf2sK2F0A8qjXqgHCS-Ga9E_iPcYkCi3wMw29Kx2Kh1d7aZ2BiuCg9r6hMVAGDB2x1Ti9gGZsMK0YKGO9f82ux2kU8kJPUnjDocm2_87ltUfdHdMYAfeiK8/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mzuBI3DXWaiuqexGHkhxhf2sK2F0A8qjXqgHCS-Ga9E_iPcYkCi3wMw29Kx2Kh1d7aZ2BiuCg9r6hMVAGDB2x1Ti9gGZsMK0YKGO9f82ux2kU8kJPUnjDocm2_87ltUfdHdMYAfeiK8/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheering...that can't be good. Can it?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The sound of running footsteps in the distance caught the party's attention. This was followed almost immediately by the sound of something roaring. The party stopped in their tracks. So, the Hobgoblins weren't boasting about the dragons, then? This might not be an easy task after all.<br />
<br />
The party knew they had to press onward. Heroes weren't born of inaction.<br />
<br />
As they headed toward the sound of the footsteps, a room full of brass dragon eggshells came into view. Janessa Waylan hurried ahead, fearing that the draconians might have destroyed the dragon eggs. But, as it turned out, these eggs were far older. And, perhaps, the draconians the party chased at this very moment might have been originally created from them. It was as much a relief as it was disturbing.<br />
<br />
"We need to keep moving," someone said, pulling Janessa away from the eggs.<br />
<br />
The party rounded the corner...and found something they didn't expect...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP412LDRxRwSX3gCXFeakdKs3q0VeS4LL7p1FxUI8CUj7pQpGB7WNoBuQK2RT5cESLsxVrGsMqAZs5J_S9iB-ZMrcTM5QXQafvm6xEdDYyt18CwSLYjrSICy7bsbegfH5aAYXaYKxVEo/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP412LDRxRwSX3gCXFeakdKs3q0VeS4LL7p1FxUI8CUj7pQpGB7WNoBuQK2RT5cESLsxVrGsMqAZs5J_S9iB-ZMrcTM5QXQafvm6xEdDYyt18CwSLYjrSICy7bsbegfH5aAYXaYKxVEo/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ummm....have the tables turned?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A large group of humans and hobgoblins stood in the corridor, weapons ready. They laughed at the party, as draconians moved behind them and headed away with the stolen dragon eggs.<br />
<br />
The enemy had decided to make a stand. The party, aware that this was likely a ploy by the enemy to slow them down, charged straight into combat.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogN65o4FnQX38nL2ZGv7vsXcduLXgVhwkt4afasQOXmkhLmjVUIdJT1jlU7r75BBd3bVQ2tpdk7GaelEYLn2_1Kt-MVR30h2yPc4VC6_bRpgdudj4j6z0GcH7tI8m9c_J7YTPmnKF-7s/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogN65o4FnQX38nL2ZGv7vsXcduLXgVhwkt4afasQOXmkhLmjVUIdJT1jlU7r75BBd3bVQ2tpdk7GaelEYLn2_1Kt-MVR30h2yPc4VC6_bRpgdudj4j6z0GcH7tI8m9c_J7YTPmnKF-7s/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They brought out the big guns for this fight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The enemy had come prepared. The party found that breaking their ranks wasn't as easy as they hoped. Toward the back, evil wizards threw spells. In the front, Hobgoblin leaders rushed forward in a line, backed by human soldiers.<br />
<br />
Janessa Waylan suddenly remembered a wand she had found in Throtl. She pulled it out and looked at the inscription on the side, carved in the language of the elves. She spoke the words aloud.<br />
<br />
Chaos ensued, as the Hobgoblins and warriors were pelted by shards of sharp ice and rock. They fell quickly as the sharp pieces ripped them to shreds. Janessa stood in stunned silence. Only once before had she seen this spell used, and she remembered that the elder mages called it <i>Ice Storm</i>. An appropriate name.<br />
<br />
The party cut quickly through the ranks of the enemy after that. The survivors began to flee as the party moved in on them, fleeing around a corner. The party gave chase and rounded the corner...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-xdi_5e2UqldDHZBvskGF0_5X2H9-5T_JVZmUScIhScNbWG2RcQqMnXszGWOkdr1Jkwm1zv5e8tUkmJ3WbR_z4yWVcNC94wzswBE2X_avoMVnMXs0ceHKcp-IFd2UBjcZqfpm18uaac/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-xdi_5e2UqldDHZBvskGF0_5X2H9-5T_JVZmUScIhScNbWG2RcQqMnXszGWOkdr1Jkwm1zv5e8tUkmJ3WbR_z4yWVcNC94wzswBE2X_avoMVnMXs0ceHKcp-IFd2UBjcZqfpm18uaac/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oops!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The enemy had lead the party straight into the mouth of danger! Two dragons, covered in scales of snowy white, rushed toward the party. Each was larger than a full-size wagon!<br />
<br />
One of the dragon's opened his mouth and spewed forth breath made of snow and ice. Lord Benjamin felt the cold hit him and grunted in pain. A second later, the dragons fell upon the party.<br />
<br />
The dragons were hard to hit. Their large claws and teeth raked at the party with accuracy as they easily sidestepped the novice swings of the inexperienced party. But, somehow, luck prevailed. By surrounding the dragons, the party was able to eventually wear them down. Lord Benjamin, still reeling from the terrible freezing breath, struck with a definite blow and brought the first dragon down. The other quickly fell to the Wil Dhargon's hoopak.<br />
<br />
The kender was beside himself with joy. "I've never killed a dragon before! This will make quite the story back home! Yessir! Killed a dragon by myself. Two dragons really. I mean, I weakened that other one, of course. So, thanks for finishing it up when it was on its last leg, so that I could deal with the stronger one."<br />
<br />
With the dragons dead, the Baaz Draconians and Hobgoblins had nowhere left to flee. The party approached them with their weapons drawn, still stained in dragon blood. The enemy quickly surrendered to the party, and handed over the bronze dragon eggs.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBO2MhZH6FUmYWLgp91oIz-S4cdHR7GNaQHnvJaQSfL1YWpgQAFca6epWw-4lR4KquwxhEBP-_iLEOM4jUQYvlKXrEawjCVImUb_z_zIVLhXjF49tAud8xP-OUdTejsy8TJVW29YvZqIU/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBO2MhZH6FUmYWLgp91oIz-S4cdHR7GNaQHnvJaQSfL1YWpgQAFca6epWw-4lR4KquwxhEBP-_iLEOM4jUQYvlKXrEawjCVImUb_z_zIVLhXjF49tAud8xP-OUdTejsy8TJVW29YvZqIU/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If they had done this to start with, this would have gone a lot easier.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At last! The eggs were safely in the hands of the forces of good.<br />
<br />
The party made haste back to the outpost to see Sir Karl Gaardsen, and report what had happened. He told them to go and rest, and he would see them in the morning.<br />
<br />
The party spent a little time in the local training halls and found that much of what they had experienced had made them better adventurers. Several new spells were learned and the warriors felt as though they understood their weapons a little more intimately than before.<br />
<br />
In the morning, Sir Karl told the party that he was happy with their work.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDMwT8u9j9HW12tI2kwd8JlFREHqmAc_mnwPEPlZyf4ch3zCfKCil3_RQ3pr4t3UYZPTEW39F6J3cA5A3qg1Q71GF0kx4ebW7ItiyBSCDH0jIPmn2FFB4P2TatnAkWn5o3l5dGZT4alA/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDMwT8u9j9HW12tI2kwd8JlFREHqmAc_mnwPEPlZyf4ch3zCfKCil3_RQ3pr4t3UYZPTEW39F6J3cA5A3qg1Q71GF0kx4ebW7ItiyBSCDH0jIPmn2FFB4P2TatnAkWn5o3l5dGZT4alA/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark plots, indeed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He ordered the party to head to another outpost between Gargath and Jalek. He told them, once he met them there, he would have them investigate the Tower of Gargath.<br />
<br />
Gargath. The place where the mysterious Myrtani was supposed to be. The party knew, at that moment, that the adventure had only just begun...<br />
<br />
UP NEXT: The party heads toward Gargath.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-76325032175958416562012-03-11T14:28:00.000-04:002012-03-11T14:28:15.449-04:00I'LL BE BACKI received some kind words from folks and it really makes me want to continue my journey. I didn't really want to give it up to begin with, but time just got so crunched that I just couldn't see beyond what was going on in that moment.<br />
<br />
So, my travels into <i>Champions of Krynn</i> will continue. I can't say when for sure. In fact, tying myself to a schedule was probably the biggest mistake I made. So, I'll post what I can, when I can.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I hope you'll all be patient until I can get back to it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-17165388962013554612012-03-07T19:18:00.001-05:002012-03-07T19:18:41.625-05:00CALLING IT A DAY...At this point, there's no denying it. I'm far too busy to keep up with a blog. As much as I would love to chronicle my adventures here, I just don't have the time for it.<br />
<br />
I suppose I'm just one of a million blogs that start off strong and die a quick death. So be it.<br />
<br />
Thanks for those who actually took time to read it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-4889631008659825802012-02-12T11:16:00.002-05:002012-02-13T16:35:55.272-05:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: CATACOMBS OF DOOM!Personal Note:<br />
<i>Sometimes, life can throw you a few curve balls you don't expect. I hoped to have more time these last two weeks to keep up with this blog, but school has disagreed and slammed me with work. I'm still able to post on the weekends for the moment, though. I suppose that's better than nothing. Even still, due to my time restrictions, this entry is shorter than the others. I hope that won't continue to happen...</i><br />
<br />
<br />
The party, after having fought their way through a hidden temple in the ruins of Throtl, has found themselves in the dank and crumbling catacombs below the city. Hot on the trail of Baaz Draconians who have fled with bronze dragon eggs, the party knew they would need to put some speed into their pursuit while trying to remain cautious. Not an easy task.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i> </i>In fact, the party is ambushed almost immediately...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LyrTbNz1p3PqNKZFVHWyiQ8PJhb3I1MdrFtf2Nxq3l7HI1OyRk2ImHLupaArRVYgHIttItYaepeYOnxZlkmoegUU_4Ca713XuOsAIJPjyPed6MiBCNmNG3nHY_kQZSL4QyuhoEoz-Yo/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LyrTbNz1p3PqNKZFVHWyiQ8PJhb3I1MdrFtf2Nxq3l7HI1OyRk2ImHLupaArRVYgHIttItYaepeYOnxZlkmoegUU_4Ca713XuOsAIJPjyPed6MiBCNmNG3nHY_kQZSL4QyuhoEoz-Yo/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is not the way you want to start things off.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Curses fly as swords swing into action. Certainly the rest of the evil forces down in the catacombs would be swarming over the party in moments. The party had to dispatch these warriors as quickly as possible.<br />
<br />
As it turns out, the party was able to do just that. One by one, the evil warriors fell to their weapons until only one remained. The last one threw up his arms in surrender and the party interrogated him.<br />
<br />
The interrogation revealed nothing, save that others would try to slow the party down and keep them from reaching the Baaz Draconians carrying the dragon eggs. Lord Benjamin upheld his beliefs as a Solamnic Knight and prevented any harm from coming to the warrior, but insisted that he be tied up so that he could not warn his comrades.<br />
<br />
The party left him behind and slipped further into the catacombs. They knew that others would be after them shortly. There was no more time for stealth and no more need to be too cautious. The Baaz Draconians had to be located before they could escape.<br />
<br />
It didn't take long for an evil cleric to show up. He brought skeletons and trained giant rats with him. He laughed in defiance as he ordered them to attack.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygTijbB6vVaesmRb8epNtGSAxTckyddg_LUX5QGXocDu44YW_NaSPVkshNZY1epj-f51QLTEupSvCmliRgbpBfQvWfMMH30dza328NEOy8qSyWY2peF2hnzuhIOpVQHdWCc-zo2fRunA/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygTijbB6vVaesmRb8epNtGSAxTckyddg_LUX5QGXocDu44YW_NaSPVkshNZY1epj-f51QLTEupSvCmliRgbpBfQvWfMMH30dza328NEOy8qSyWY2peF2hnzuhIOpVQHdWCc-zo2fRunA/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rats and Skeltons! Oh my!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wil Dhargon wondered aloud how the cleric managed to train giant rats to do his bidding, but all he heard in response was more laughter from the cleric. Unfortunately for the cleric, though, his laughter would be short lived as the party ripped through his allies and left him standing alone.<br />
<br />
The cleric spit out a curse of vile hatred and charged. The party, left with no other option, killed him before he could do any damage. The battle was over.<br />
<br />
On his body, they found a half destroyed letter. It looked as though the cleric had attempted to burn it recently, but didn't finish the job for some reason. It read:<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">"We have contacted the minotaurs. They will help us. I must go to Gargath. It is rumored that there is a dragonlance stored there. We must secure the keep and find the treasure room that is hidden there. The map of the keep shows those places where we believe the secret door may be located. Give the map to your officers and..."</span></i><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #999999;">
At that point, the letter ended, having been burned away. Someone in these catacombs had a map of where the author of the letter was heading next, and the party needed to find it.</div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
A nearby noise caught the party's attention. Lord Benjamin shouted a warning and bashed down a nearby door, fearing an ambush...</div>
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXW1iEBIVNO3HZA0FyWQcA-LT0Irj7NAe0PysUMKYXoOLd7iZmp9rtX7LgkaioPIOL3VLtsKmWJFEj_tfTXJGKpLxVSEewno_7qOGtjAJv4WZpa1TBQQxTwBQx89hI5h2SI9hryVdtjo/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXW1iEBIVNO3HZA0FyWQcA-LT0Irj7NAe0PysUMKYXoOLd7iZmp9rtX7LgkaioPIOL3VLtsKmWJFEj_tfTXJGKpLxVSEewno_7qOGtjAJv4WZpa1TBQQxTwBQx89hI5h2SI9hryVdtjo/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="color: #999999;">
Instead of an ambush, the party found Baaz Draconians trying to quietly sneak out of the area with the remains of some of the dragon eggs. The party fell on them quickly and ended their miserable lives with swift blows and spells.</div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
The eggs carried by these draconians weren't the eggs the party sought, as these had already been corrupted. Still, the party reckoned that maybe this group of Baaz Draconians might have split from the original group. Perhaps the real dragon eggs weren't too far away.</div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
</div>
<div style="color: #999999;">
Kavina Do'Arden suggested that the party continue their pursuit. The longer they waited, the further the dragon eggs got from being rescued. The rest of the party agreed this was wise and continued onward.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_8GJ4OPPGOo8NlBSmXHJ7xL-k7MJO_bucNe4-gPRVKW0xfLa7ZwQirJylrt2yXgQxsyM-5fnVenjPY6th9r1KZ4SjJne6QGWVFG4Ze8WlBYHk_864nc_q-k_9qknG2M9cgeOxMPJrB4/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_8GJ4OPPGOo8NlBSmXHJ7xL-k7MJO_bucNe4-gPRVKW0xfLa7ZwQirJylrt2yXgQxsyM-5fnVenjPY6th9r1KZ4SjJne6QGWVFG4Ze8WlBYHk_864nc_q-k_9qknG2M9cgeOxMPJrB4/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myrtani?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not far from where the Baaz Draconians had been, the party surprised a group of warriors arguing in the hallway. They mentioned Gargath...the same location that had been in the cleric's burned letter, and someone named Myrtani. Was that who was leading these forces?<br />
<br />
The warriors caught wind of the party eavesdropping on them and rushed to attack. Tamera Beldon lamented that no one ever seemed to want to be diplomatic and that all things seemed to end in bloodshed. But, given no choice, she lofted her heavy flail and joined the rest of the party in defense.<br />
<br />
The warriors quickly found their backs against the wall as the party pressed them, and went down quickly, swinging wildly and shouting in anger. The last one gurgled a curse with his dying breath and fell at Lord Benjamin's feet.<br />
<br />
With some searching, the party found a map of Gargath on one of the warriors. So, this was the place where this Myrtani fellow was going? Janessa Waylan took the map for safe keeping, even though Wil Dhargon wanted to add it to his collection. Janessa promised the kender that he could have the map after the party was done using it. That seemed to satisfy him.<br />
<br />
NEXT: The party continues the pursuit of the draconians... <br />
<span style="color: black;"> </span><i><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"> </span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-85336814083436315942012-02-04T15:55:00.000-05:002012-02-13T16:36:14.697-05:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: THE TEMPLE OF THE EVIL GODDESSWhen we last left our party, they had rescued Caramon Majere deep in the ruined city of Throtl. Caramon asked them to find a temple that was hidden within the ruins. He had seen a foul cleric who possessed a key that would unlock a magical door into the temple.<br />
<br />
After Caramon left, the party took a much needed rest to collect their thoughts. The whole situation was weighing pretty heavily on them. Here they were, in a place that was supposed to be empty, surrounded by evil enemies who were thought to be wiped out. It had made for a pretty dizzying adventure so far, and somehow, they knew it was going to get worse.<br />
<br />
Once they had rested, they headed out to find the cleric who possessed the key. As luck would have it, they didn't need to wait long. While searching the ruins near where they located Caramon, they happened upon a cleric who was commanding some undead.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9ed37rr0LmpAAHjFvbMh7q48QAaQqlkoJ9FDvBZISUD9A5kZhoVjRRsbO42DZ_YqkTEmWmn9I4sVeIeyj13_ywuZn-k_hL9IFRc7S8cxHKc3pKVBrX_r4K3jdkUNnhP2pAOV52ywuUw/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9ed37rr0LmpAAHjFvbMh7q48QAaQqlkoJ9FDvBZISUD9A5kZhoVjRRsbO42DZ_YqkTEmWmn9I4sVeIeyj13_ywuZn-k_hL9IFRc7S8cxHKc3pKVBrX_r4K3jdkUNnhP2pAOV52ywuUw/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I bet that "something" is the key the party is looking for.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The party didn't feel that negotiating with an evil cleric was going to get them anywhere. It's not as though they expected he would give up the key freely. So, they readied their weapons and went in for the attack.<br />
<br />
The party cleric, Tamera, made short work of the undead, proving that her faith was stronger than whatever evil fused the undead together. After that, dealing with the cleric was swift and brutal, and Kavina gave the final death blow as the vile cleric spewed at her in hatred.<br />
<br />
On his body, the party located a strange looking key. It was carved with intricate symbols and felt warm to the touch. They were convinced that this must be the key that Caramon told them about.<br />
<br />
As it so happened, the kender in the party, Wil, happened to have a map of old Throtl before it became a ruin. At this point, the party members knew better than to ask how he acquired such things and just went with it. According to his map, there was one section of Throtl that the party had not yet explored. In fact, they hadn't even seen a way to enter that section.<br />
<br />
It seemed as good a guess as any, so the party headed off in that direction. What would they find there? The general feeling was that whatever they found there, it wouldn't be anything good.<br />
<br />
Their musings were cut short as a group of clerics and hobgoblins suddenly came out of nowhere and ambushed them. It seemed too obvious now that the party was getting to close to what they sought, and it was making the opposition nervous.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4majmf5oy-Dt01-F9tLc0nORk_yffOppbRDo0YF-Fxa6z-Mj1MU0yiBeDOB1gSJBMuiU1v0dWNMZJjJT8xja-Wp7VaGvWL6sJeqUQv0oaOGMQR-YY-bmhP6yxfGjk8BG-8yaIQw-P7U/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4majmf5oy-Dt01-F9tLc0nORk_yffOppbRDo0YF-Fxa6z-Mj1MU0yiBeDOB1gSJBMuiU1v0dWNMZJjJT8xja-Wp7VaGvWL6sJeqUQv0oaOGMQR-YY-bmhP6yxfGjk8BG-8yaIQw-P7U/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An evil force tries to stop the party.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The battle wasn't an easy one. Wil was hit by a <i>Hold Person </i>spell cast by one of the evil clerics, and found himself unable to move. The rest of the party moved into position to protect him and worked in unison to wipe out their enemies. Superior tactics won the day, and the party was victorious.<br />
<br />
It became obvious why the attack occurred. Just a few steps from where the party was ambushed, the strange key began to glow. In return, a section of ruined wall also began to glow and a wall appeared. Caramon had been right...the temple was hidden by magic!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBu2zmhRtKuNeNmcRCEDL2vmBmEaGxaCtQBpHjJJgdUHjTryNrpuSdtsFT4v_Ey8MZaAxtFElrG0vx6lrK5Q1cG1ALFPikC0Am8_y3NFEvvgUocs9OQH7JEotaRsffW7eT0Ppm-j21cY/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBu2zmhRtKuNeNmcRCEDL2vmBmEaGxaCtQBpHjJJgdUHjTryNrpuSdtsFT4v_Ey8MZaAxtFElrG0vx6lrK5Q1cG1ALFPikC0Am8_y3NFEvvgUocs9OQH7JEotaRsffW7eT0Ppm-j21cY/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found it!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Despite some scratches and bruises, the party pressed on and entered the temple. An aura of dread surrounded them as they stepped through the door. The place felt oppressive and the stench of evil weighed heavily upon the party. Whatever was going on here, it needed to be stopped.<br />
<br />
The place wasn't without guards, though. As the party moved into the temple, a squad of undead appeared from the shadows. Lead by a ghoul and a cleric, the undead surprised the party and caught them completely off guard.<br />
<br />
Tamera shouted a warning about the ghoul, but her warning came too late. The creature was fast and hit two party members with a paralyzing touch. The other undead wounded them and took them down. There were shouts of alarm as the party realized that they had lost two members of their party!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguei_LDaymrcSMPEz-QXLqOmhmRkurICWTyIbryZfFYjukUGZpqLq8sm73r7mEl1AqEdqKYf-dwo7SMYkgHaDybITPtnmk-dyvoLpOla3Yq8Xp-Pvo1XBETz86uosktXawHYTWWiGGH8I/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguei_LDaymrcSMPEz-QXLqOmhmRkurICWTyIbryZfFYjukUGZpqLq8sm73r7mEl1AqEdqKYf-dwo7SMYkgHaDybITPtnmk-dyvoLpOla3Yq8Xp-Pvo1XBETz86uosktXawHYTWWiGGH8I/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Man down! Man down!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even though the situation was somewhat dicey, the party managed to pull through. Luckily, neither member of the party that went down had died from their wounds. Some quick bandaging and a couple of cure spells got them back to their feet...somewhat dazed, but no worse for wear.<br />
<br />
Somewhat reluctantly, the party pressed on.<br />
<br />
As they got deeper into the temple, they began to hear a lot of chanting. Following the sounds of chanting, they came across a large ritual in progress. Baaz Draconians and evils Priests stood around an altar to the dark goddess, Takhisis. On the altar were bronze dragon eggs...something that Caramon had mentioned earlier. The Draconians were using the priests to corrupt the eggs to make more of their kind!<br />
<br />
"We have to stop them!" someone in the party said...just a little too loudly.<br />
<br />
One of the priests heard this and snapped his head in the direction of the party. Unfortunately for him, his concentration on the ritual was broken. The eggs exploded! Shrapnel from thick dragon eggs flew everywhere, killing some of the priests!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaNi_T-yDtGY424HClHBc7L6kvzEcZdE3axAWR6vP43eAaAkUmirS2ZSCXlT1wBt0HEMPwWg1ayx5vC0sHufRjU7JBoXs5Suthzz2tqCY66D8oDX6DEmhImHSMH4lo0jUtg1PC_B6iZg/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaNi_T-yDtGY424HClHBc7L6kvzEcZdE3axAWR6vP43eAaAkUmirS2ZSCXlT1wBt0HEMPwWg1ayx5vC0sHufRjU7JBoXs5Suthzz2tqCY66D8oDX6DEmhImHSMH4lo0jUtg1PC_B6iZg/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oops! They've spotted the party!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the priests who survived the blast spotted the party. He called for the Baaz Draconians to attack. The clerics picked up weapons and joined them.<br />
<br />
Within seconds, a bloody battled began. The party threw <i>Sleep </i>spells at the priests in the hopes of putting them to sleep before they could cast spells. It was over quickly. Obviously, the Priests and the Draconians had been shaken by the event and hadn't been fully prepared for an attack.<br />
<br />
But, despite the party's victory, the Draconians hadn't entirely lost the day. While the battle was going on, a few of them had taken the remaining dragon eggs and slipped away. The party knew they had to catch them before they got away!<br />
<br />
Without wasting a moment, the party lept over the balcony railing and rushed after the fleeing Draconians. In the hopes of slowing the party down, some of the Baaz Draconians fell back and engaged the party in battle while the others escaped.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nizJPL7ypGVS3vnO3tx_-0bDenBEpNJea01dr5kfjikcd9Nx3VIpE97TkrU2QSAyxLZrqPLl9bZQTWpTg5MNgcvU4L5SBs0eqMna11cCk8IO6xqnmow3adAbR__VN0SV02G7EcRuR_w/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nizJPL7ypGVS3vnO3tx_-0bDenBEpNJea01dr5kfjikcd9Nx3VIpE97TkrU2QSAyxLZrqPLl9bZQTWpTg5MNgcvU4L5SBs0eqMna11cCk8IO6xqnmow3adAbR__VN0SV02G7EcRuR_w/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow those eggs!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Catching their second wind, the party dealt with the Draconians in quick fashion. Still, the Draconians had succeeded in slowing them down a little bit. Time was running out.<br />
<br />
Moving as fast as their legs could carry them, the party pressed on. Eventually, they spotted a stairway ahead, leading into some old catacombs. Baaz Draconians were there, heading down the stairs. Before the party could reach them, however, they were intercepted by a priest controlling undead minions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6og_NC6oRKwHvxymSHKGzf3D4MOruDyC_FiYZrGxswTVfZOe09rzeT0sry0izstYm4w4YoPAL9CzbTkSeDqY1Znnwnb4hJRxpJT7yY4ae_4I8P3coP7bp5rvOMMlTPFha8pqIk1ayww/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6og_NC6oRKwHvxymSHKGzf3D4MOruDyC_FiYZrGxswTVfZOe09rzeT0sry0izstYm4w4YoPAL9CzbTkSeDqY1Znnwnb4hJRxpJT7yY4ae_4I8P3coP7bp5rvOMMlTPFha8pqIk1ayww/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More undead? Oh boy!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But, as another priest in the Ruins of Throtl discovered earlier, Tamera's ability to turn the undead was formidable. Calling upon the power of the goddess Mishakal, she blasted the skeletons and zombies and reduced them to decaying flesh and rotting bone while the priests stood dumbfounded.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhAZQVgcyf4lpK6FCIIW1gMJraZ2JSWx_kusnFDlmCUEzS4k9RVqzpFBXMfm38kfLLDA3Q_xwjqcuRIm0AZdoWPmmmgehD802d7KrCHJmsK5-vRvPOpywE3q-qC9jiCVDMW-BzjQk49k/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhAZQVgcyf4lpK6FCIIW1gMJraZ2JSWx_kusnFDlmCUEzS4k9RVqzpFBXMfm38kfLLDA3Q_xwjqcuRIm0AZdoWPmmmgehD802d7KrCHJmsK5-vRvPOpywE3q-qC9jiCVDMW-BzjQk49k/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last of the zombies falls to Tamera's awesome turning ability.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The priest was easily dispatched. This time, the party had not wasted much time. They could still hear the Baaz Draconians escaping down the stairs.<br />
<br />
They headed down the stairs after them, into the forgotten catacombs of Throtl...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuBG6ZPq0FXLY9BiUgaEaCyOARYXA9OcxX8Q2Vi48uoZCKYeO1SpQUJLvSrb9XfmAxP9Z1UAUXLRXhMiRg8mPR3_hx6cFVsJOZswncnNogppU4oSRVPupeGS8TDGJe95ctQc40G7-1Bg/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuBG6ZPq0FXLY9BiUgaEaCyOARYXA9OcxX8Q2Vi48uoZCKYeO1SpQUJLvSrb9XfmAxP9Z1UAUXLRXhMiRg8mPR3_hx6cFVsJOZswncnNogppU4oSRVPupeGS8TDGJe95ctQc40G7-1Bg/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screams and cries...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Baaz Draconians were here somewhere...and the party would locate them...<br />
<br />
<br />
NEXT TIME: The party explores the catacombs of Throtl. Will they catch the Baaz Draconians? Will they retrieve the dragon eggs? Or will evil win the day? Be sure to check back and see...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-44751356815437106032012-02-01T15:25:00.000-05:002012-02-01T15:25:47.147-05:00QUICK UPDATEJust a quick update for those who might be following this blog. I do intend to continue my adventuring in Champions of Krynn soon. This week's school work has been hectic beyond belief (did not expect this to be a really tough week). My classes are challenging already, but the amount of work they threw at me seems overwhelming at the moment. I'm trying work myself out of that hole so that I can get back to the fun.<br />
<br />
I expect I can post another update around Friday or Saturday if everything goes well. Stay tuned.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-43306581382824767892012-01-27T17:27:00.001-05:002012-02-13T16:36:31.862-05:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: BEYOND THE GATES OF THROTLWhen we last left our party, they had just discovered that the commandant at the outpost was really a draconian in disguise and that things were much worse off than they had believed. Sir Karl Gaardsen asked them to travel north to the ruined city of Throtl to find Caramon Majere and return him to the outpost.<br />
<br />
The party didn't waste a second. Within a few minutes of being told, they raced out of the outpost and headed north to the ruins of Throtl. As they entered through the main gates, however, they discovered a force of Hobgoblins awaiting them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzto3OmWT9spLVO6rq_HFvvIi0wRHmqOy7fw0ASipHIi3Iu-jECrPsIM7FH5Y7uy4vj9IENGcShlltBeveZ7RvkvjDHvfHnFQi5V1csgTyWjSJl544cVZcx-3bcYiPPB4irh5_SW69RcI/s1600/start_000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzto3OmWT9spLVO6rq_HFvvIi0wRHmqOy7fw0ASipHIi3Iu-jECrPsIM7FH5Y7uy4vj9IENGcShlltBeveZ7RvkvjDHvfHnFQi5V1csgTyWjSJl544cVZcx-3bcYiPPB4irh5_SW69RcI/s640/start_000.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How about if you leave first?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Hobgoblins seemed quite anxious to get the party to leave. It smelled a lot like they were up to no good here, and they didn't want the party to find out about it. So, given no other choice, the party stood their ground and battled the Hobgoblins.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcWjqnanj634hyG9tGsQGArS2dslK9iLgnU8-s1d8Go9vDlPPIZY5dmr5m6lxRBKeHPoAxy-P913LhWa_o934-Y13oW1o8BfYjV3YId7YR29dDcwadZFMFq-5y770-71kLTzs4Tvc-Hs/s1600/start_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcWjqnanj634hyG9tGsQGArS2dslK9iLgnU8-s1d8Go9vDlPPIZY5dmr5m6lxRBKeHPoAxy-P913LhWa_o934-Y13oW1o8BfYjV3YId7YR29dDcwadZFMFq-5y770-71kLTzs4Tvc-Hs/s640/start_001.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wil has a way of irritating the opposition.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Behind the rows of Hobgoblins, a couple of human soldiers were also thrown into the mix. Something was definitely fishy in Throtl. The sooner the party figured out what it was, the better. While the fight wasn't easy, it definitely became a lot easier once the mages in the party started to throw around a few well placed "sleep" spells.<br />
<br />
After the Hobgoblins and warriors at the gates had been dealt with, the party headed into the ruins. The place was a complete shambles. There was nothing left of the civilization that once thrived there, just a lot of mossy stone and tons of hungry rats.<br />
<br />
Not knowing which way to go, the party decided to head east. They hadn't gone too far when they heard a noise up ahead and readied their weapons. Instead of angry Hobgoblins, though, they encountered a clearly distraught man who was babbling and carrying on as though he had lost his mind.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R3PTzi-0aA-WdARCIQSqYWTQgftWERz0VVwVvHGCCLT3hmbWt2N1OcoWTWLgHv7Gri-5NMHbBWAaPfaVrARchh6phKShVVSLN-Be1xogRG1eZjH86D4BtLaAETO5cbqTJg8evNcaKHM/s1600/start_002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R3PTzi-0aA-WdARCIQSqYWTQgftWERz0VVwVvHGCCLT3hmbWt2N1OcoWTWLgHv7Gri-5NMHbBWAaPfaVrARchh6phKShVVSLN-Be1xogRG1eZjH86D4BtLaAETO5cbqTJg8evNcaKHM/s640/start_002.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where is Caramon? That's a good question.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He shouted at them about Caramon and said something about some traps. Then, he got really weird and started to talk about some treasure he knew about deep in the ruins and offered to split it with the party if they helped him find it. Before anyone could answer though, he started screaming and ran into the ruins, never to be seen again.<br />
<br />
The party tried to follow him, but somehow he eluded them completely.<br />
<br />
But their pursuit did not amount to nothing. While trying to figure out where the crazy man went, they stumbled across a few Baaz Draconians talking to Hobgoblins and some more the human warriors. The draconians said something about a temple and some dragon eggs. The party tried to hear more about it, but the draconians must have heard them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CmmzUTZO4k6A5TuHGLACXU8JHrDpUgkWhGY0iZuEktX3tdHHxg1Eac9Z-dGvZmTYq2bXZ2rF6tqBpyY262pDGl76BrOF33sQaRYzM3uSzOd_RqpeJNlhlPS_zn_VKI0CRQtKL_8G0nQ/s1600/start_003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CmmzUTZO4k6A5TuHGLACXU8JHrDpUgkWhGY0iZuEktX3tdHHxg1Eac9Z-dGvZmTYq2bXZ2rF6tqBpyY262pDGl76BrOF33sQaRYzM3uSzOd_RqpeJNlhlPS_zn_VKI0CRQtKL_8G0nQ/s640/start_003.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The enemies prepare to attack.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The draconians turned and assaulted the party. Irritated by the presence of draconians, the party quickly dealt with the threat and searched for some clue of what they were talking about. Unfortunately, there was nothing to find. What kind of temple were they talking about? Are the dragon eggs there?<br />
<br />
As the party continued to search the ruins, they found indications of battle. It looked as though Caramon had led his group through the area. Someone had dropped a shield with the symbol of the Solamnic Knights on it. There was blood on the ground. Clearly, Caramon had found trouble in Throtl.<br />
<br />
The party decided to search the area around where the battle occurred. Maybe Caramon was still nearby. Unfortunately, what they found was not something friendly.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORzksPW4SuJ6kOz6eI8kM_Kc0bPBtYbXsdrnmny3_O_4W658MLjsANv8c4musweiY-DcdI9NzLGSqEdqY3mpEvzdWHyMYx_nan1gzw9_ovmwNKAkc2AO9JmWGG7fAbae3GLTb3JSPpEw/s1600/start_004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORzksPW4SuJ6kOz6eI8kM_Kc0bPBtYbXsdrnmny3_O_4W658MLjsANv8c4musweiY-DcdI9NzLGSqEdqY3mpEvzdWHyMYx_nan1gzw9_ovmwNKAkc2AO9JmWGG7fAbae3GLTb3JSPpEw/s640/start_004.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh goody! Undead minions!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
An evil cleric, dragging some skeletons in tow, was cleaning out a chest. He was not happy that the party happened upon him and sent his skeletons into battle. The party knew they would have to deal with the cleric pretty quickly, as spellcasting foes can be quite dangerous. Luckily, the party prevailed with minor scrapes and bruises and collected what was in the chest.<br />
<br />
There was a heap of steel pieces (the currency of Krynn) and two scrolls with the "Neutralize Poison" spell inscribed on them. Tamera, the party's main cleric, took those for safe keeping...hoping that they wouldn't be useful anytime soon.<br />
<br />
After completely searching the area around where the battle occurred, the party realized that Caramon must no longer be in the area and headed off in another direction. Unfortunately, their searching brought them into the midst of a few Hobgoblins and a Hobgoblin leader.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRAIfrvjkssFTYTs0MX_HUA3wHxxU_lqMd-UqOWiz5yo6RPLdIpvINBZ49rNLdUcs9oJo0Gf7hEiN9CTZeCNNs4420SOKcz7_7Vh_2Etl1k_wmKEAIdPfVpVKZdqXAYuAyl8xNm9n9_E/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRAIfrvjkssFTYTs0MX_HUA3wHxxU_lqMd-UqOWiz5yo6RPLdIpvINBZ49rNLdUcs9oJo0Gf7hEiN9CTZeCNNs4420SOKcz7_7Vh_2Etl1k_wmKEAIdPfVpVKZdqXAYuAyl8xNm9n9_E/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What do you mean, "More of them?"</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Hobgoblin leader's words betrayed that the party wasn't the only intruders he had recently seen. Given the choice to talk to him, the party thought perhaps they could convince him to tell them where Caramon was located. So, they raised their hands peacefully in the hopes of opening a dialogue. Instead, the Hobgoblin leader laughed at them and decided to outright attack them.<br />
<br />
The party had no choice but to defend itself against such foul creatures. It would be the last time they would attempt to speak to them. It was clear that the Hobgoblins had completely thrown themselves into the plot with the draconians now. They would pay the ultimate price.<br />
<br />
After the battle was over, the party headed off into the west area of the ruins. Unfortunately, a trap of some kind had been laid, and several members of the party were hit by arrows. The trap appeared to be recently set. Did someone know they were coming?<br />
<br />
Before they could think much about it, a human soldier came out of nowhere and wanted to speak to the party. The party decided to hear him out. Here's what he had to say:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9iu00YMZG_x3GTmCcUQyxvoVvn2j7LhJq6nu1pngieaTqaWTMcpQMVbvQd5mdF1bYJQr835f1pEpUWuzX0qoNNIN_e2TeOOxDnQYxpf_bUIqaKjL_DGHayxpanbxiLf3STvoOSilzHc/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9iu00YMZG_x3GTmCcUQyxvoVvn2j7LhJq6nu1pngieaTqaWTMcpQMVbvQd5mdF1bYJQr835f1pEpUWuzX0qoNNIN_e2TeOOxDnQYxpf_bUIqaKjL_DGHayxpanbxiLf3STvoOSilzHc/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f; text-align: left;">
<i>"I was with the party of knights and others under Caramon that came in here to explore. We haven't really found anything. Caramon's already left to report. I guess you must have missed him."</i></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f; text-align: left;">
<i>"Oh, one thing we did find out was that there is a treasure left over from the previous occupants of Throtl. We got word of it from a Hobgoblin who was sneaking in to claim it. Before he died, he told us that it was located in the south-central area of the city. Tell you what, if you help me find this treasure, I'll split it with you. All right?"</i></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f; text-align: left;">
<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #6aa84f;"> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> </i>Something about the guy just didn't seem right. Besides, the party had better things to do than go off in search of treasure right now. Evil was afoot, and the sooner the party found Caramon and got him back to Sir Karl, the better.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party refused the soldier's offer. Instead of taking it like a man, though, he shouted out for some Hobgoblins and attacked the party, thereby justifying the party's feeling that there was something off about this fellow.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party wiped out the Hobgoblins as quickly as they could. The soldier turned out to be a little tougher than some of his other friends, though. Still, he was no match for the party's determination.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once he was dealt with, the party took a minute to collect their thoughts. The enemy seemed to always be one step ahead of them. In fact, the enemy knew just what to tell them. Had the search for Caramon not been paramount, they might have easily fallen into the trap that the soldier had attempted to lay.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Eventually, the party continued on their way. They had a feeling that the soldier had been lying and that Caramon was still within Throtl somewhere. He had to be. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A noise caught their attention...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUppxte0xr3wHOkwJQxbUsmuF5w9-tbTurL4psecm1qcM2poacrjyfamF0GLdeXL_wRA454d18svOl2KAXVZouaw2uBf1QwKiRprtzxGi4863Cdu3ddc8NIoPRLuYEao1TuGZAmemamk/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUppxte0xr3wHOkwJQxbUsmuF5w9-tbTurL4psecm1qcM2poacrjyfamF0GLdeXL_wRA454d18svOl2KAXVZouaw2uBf1QwKiRprtzxGi4863Cdu3ddc8NIoPRLuYEao1TuGZAmemamk/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A kender?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party had stumbled across a kender who was busy setting traps. He introduced himself as Kildirf and claimed to know Caramon and that he was attempting to find him. He thought Caramon was somewhere south of where they currently were.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He said he had been setting traps to keep the Hobgoblins off his trail and he hoped that the party hadn't stumbled into any of them. There were a few grumbles from the back of the party where Janessa was still hurting over an arrow wound, but the party pretty much let it slide.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Kildirf offered to join the party and help them locate Caramon. He said he had another friend as well, a Solamnic Knight, who as also searching for Caramon.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As luck would have it, his friend appeared not a moment later. He claimed to be Larcent Strangbourn, a Solamnic Knight who had come with Caramon, but had become separated from him in the ruins of Throtl.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49vvi4uoQBNCUmicKKeDhV_5tO5DEH7qaOWYjZEzj5O_5_-3WldPFdwQvIk7msgWz4BEVM2PPH3OjeokgSEtncPNAkmKXbF20ZtPijiycrERfyDazGIUhIH48mL02gJ18bhr_wcUwA4Q/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49vvi4uoQBNCUmicKKeDhV_5tO5DEH7qaOWYjZEzj5O_5_-3WldPFdwQvIk7msgWz4BEVM2PPH3OjeokgSEtncPNAkmKXbF20ZtPijiycrERfyDazGIUhIH48mL02gJ18bhr_wcUwA4Q/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apparently all Solamnic Knights like big mustaches.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Unlike the soldier who tried to trick the party, these two seemed to legitimately be concerned for Caramon. Not to mention that Strangbourn was dressed in the full plate armor of a Solamnic Knight, which lent a lot of credibility to his story. If he was lying, he was convincing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With new friends in tow, the party continued their search for Caramon. As they walked, Strangbourn mentioned something odd about Sir Karl. He said:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><i>"Listen, Sir Karl is the most honorable of men. I would follow him anywhere. But there is something very dark and strange going on around him. He seems obsessed with a young girl named Maya. The fact that he's about 40 years older than she is isn't really the problem, if they'd just settle down and declare themselves."</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><i>"Maya is extremely valuable to us. She has sources of information that are astounding, especially for one so young."</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><i> </i></span></div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
After that, he said no more about it. But, he seemed troubled by the whole thing.</div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
Unfortunately, his troubles would need to wait. As the party rounded a corner, they were ambushed by combined forces of the enemy. They had been waiting for the party!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><i></i></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGVl23BFZG0IypDQEzlCfK0qETXQ9kqfNcwR2gTa0TmwWxcD7cir_MQAhap6MKeAhaQR0KaLIz8MCWfrlE2vDeH0lxB8P4ZDwj-oouAua-iE89dn97_S094DutxZ612_qZREPn09IB9k/s1600/start_011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGVl23BFZG0IypDQEzlCfK0qETXQ9kqfNcwR2gTa0TmwWxcD7cir_MQAhap6MKeAhaQR0KaLIz8MCWfrlE2vDeH0lxB8P4ZDwj-oouAua-iE89dn97_S094DutxZ612_qZREPn09IB9k/s640/start_011.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evil forces! Oh no!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><i></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A long battle ensued. With the help of Kildirf and Strangbourn, though, the party managed to defeat the horde of Baaz Draconians, Hobgoblins, soldiers, mages and clerics that had waited to ambush them. Why were they so eager to stop the party? Were they getting close to something?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party quickly had their answer. Through a locked door near where they were ambushed, they found Caramon Majere, hanging in chains. He had been taken prisoner by the enemy.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosbhbZ4TY98TWhSuTAcLK18VM-BJwZwawhbWoCk8gFSYPtndjxIiozeodxTMcuwduYo4UFEKJpnbUsbsk9PO6Y5iJnJdxYskY30U_bX_NNUQTheWFoKTSk3NQwvCePRCn5sw2Xwhhgr0/s1600/start_012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosbhbZ4TY98TWhSuTAcLK18VM-BJwZwawhbWoCk8gFSYPtndjxIiozeodxTMcuwduYo4UFEKJpnbUsbsk9PO6Y5iJnJdxYskY30U_bX_NNUQTheWFoKTSk3NQwvCePRCn5sw2Xwhhgr0/s640/start_012.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party quickly released him from his chains. He said that he had been taken to a temple somewhere in Throtl and had seen draconians and dragon eggs. He also said that an evil priest somewhere in Throtl had a magical key that would make the secret doors to the temple appear.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He asked if the party would go in search of the key while he went back to check in with Sir Karl. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Suddenly, there was a lot of clamor outside the door! A loud whooshing noise followed by what sounded like tinkling glass echoed into the chamber, followed by the tormented screaming of Hobgoblins as they shrieked in fear.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then...only silence...until a female voice called out...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIooIAYIqRcRVDdkSmuL54J4p-HBuBvKdMSgdjQ5Ci9gANM0B6DXmarAMyomrF0J1iHC_CwXtCLjFJYSo02KOiTzZrCCwEUuoJPpBUjHixoOamHoFxrUcDlWPJwjDxwUm8Enxrm3tXzLM/s1600/start_014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIooIAYIqRcRVDdkSmuL54J4p-HBuBvKdMSgdjQ5Ci9gANM0B6DXmarAMyomrF0J1iHC_CwXtCLjFJYSo02KOiTzZrCCwEUuoJPpBUjHixoOamHoFxrUcDlWPJwjDxwUm8Enxrm3tXzLM/s640/start_014.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's not a Hobgoblin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A woman rushed into the room. Caramon and Strangbourn seem to recognize her. She introduces herself as Maya. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, this is the woman that Strangbourn had mentioned earlier? She speaks to Caramon:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #93c47d;"><i>"I've been sent by Sir Karl to get you back to the outpost. There are rumors that large forces of Draconians, Hobgoblins, Minotaurs and others are gathering. We need you to direct scouting and raiding operations. I see now that things are worse than we thought. Throtl was supposed to be abandoned."</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
Caramon tells her that he has seen Brass Dragon Eggs in the possession of the draconians. Maya gasps at this news.</div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #999999; text-align: left;">
He urges the party once again to find the key and locate the temple. The party, being good at heart, agrees to continue the fight. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then, Caramon leaves, taking Maya, Strangbourn and Kildirf with him. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The party waits for them to leave, and then heads back out into the ruins. As they do, they notice that there is an odd amount of ice on the walls and that a few Hobgoblins have been frozen to death.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Next time: The party searches for the temple in Throtl!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-78455213192147990942012-01-27T13:19:00.002-05:002012-02-13T16:37:18.640-05:00CHAMPIONS OF KRYNN: THE ADVENTURE BEGINS<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgerM9xHIvMcYgwkQg0hkL1c5HSZeaPG7GZzHQLU732_j42RY-87cM4zbac3RESiZTwk4UbfJJYJqnI5iAR9jV4edHj7i6aNF_TdYnUd7Dch0vXI8VBdvqVCCIdnx8D6nFR0XRrrTosduk/s1600/start_005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgerM9xHIvMcYgwkQg0hkL1c5HSZeaPG7GZzHQLU732_j42RY-87cM4zbac3RESiZTwk4UbfJJYJqnI5iAR9jV4edHj7i6aNF_TdYnUd7Dch0vXI8VBdvqVCCIdnx8D6nFR0XRrrTosduk/s640/start_005.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The title screen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's been a long time since I've journeyed to the land of Krynn. My mainstay of Dungeons and Dragons is the Forgotten Realms. I have nothing against Krynn. It's a well thought out world, and I would go so far as to say that the original trilogy and the second trilogy of novels by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman are good enough that they should be lauded alongside the likes of the <i>Lord of the Rings</i> trilogy. Some will find that to be some kind of heresy in their minds, but those were the books I grew up loving. If you've never read those books, you should take the time to do so.<br />
<br />
Now, on to the party. The names are the same as in Pool of Radiance. This is done on purpose. I have an attachment to these characters, and using them over and over again allows me to know at a glance what class or classes they have training in. It used to be that I used a new party every time, and it was hard to remember who was the cleric and who was the mage. This just makes things simple and easy for me.<br />
<br />
Krynn is a different world than Faerun, so there are some adjustments to race and class. If you've never experienced these games before, you might be surprised to find out how different things are.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2nI7ttJxkwbMh91x3V_rJj09DQ2gUdiOzfhXy-fz2rhuiV0dAYuJFvmzfmnz2jIhe-A9e20PxhpqgKMBzG_gnJFjDDtrsX5Y412osZlutRSKXgavhk5Z5-eE7uREx0yZstPkvR1Hqg0/s1600/start_006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2nI7ttJxkwbMh91x3V_rJj09DQ2gUdiOzfhXy-fz2rhuiV0dAYuJFvmzfmnz2jIhe-A9e20PxhpqgKMBzG_gnJFjDDtrsX5Y412osZlutRSKXgavhk5Z5-eE7uREx0yZstPkvR1Hqg0/s640/start_006.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The roster of heroes who will guide us through the adventure.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Lord Benjamin</b> - Solamnic Knight of the Crown - Human - Male - Lawful Good<br />
<b>Kavina Do'Arden </b>- Ranger - Human - Female - Neutral Good<br />
<b>Thaddeus Durin</b> - Cleric of Mishakal/Fighter/White Robe Mage - Half-Elf - Chaotic Good<br />
<b>Wil Dhargon</b> - Fighter/Thief - Kender - Male - Neutral Good<br />
<b>Tamera Beldon</b> - Cleric of Mishakal - Human - Female - Lawful Good<br />
<b>Janessa Waylan</b> - Red Robe Mage - Human - True Neutral<br />
<br />
<br />
First, let's talk about the different choices of race and class. If you've only ever played the Forgotten Realms Gold-Box games, you probably know the standard choices (Human, Elf, Dwarf, Half-Elf, Gnome, Halfling). The Krynn games, however, have a completely different set of races, including:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Hill Dwarf</li>
<li>Mountain Dwarf</li>
<li>Silvanesti Elf</li>
<li>Qualinesti Elf</li>
<li>Half-Elf</li>
<li>Kender</li>
<li>Human</li>
</ul>
<br />
Of the races presented above, the most interesting one is the Kender. They're like halflings, only a lot more fun. Kender have a love for adventure, are natural thieves and can taunt their enemies (as you'll see later). They also have a specialized weapon that only they can use, called a Hoopak, that can be used as both a melee and a ranged weapon.<br />
<br />
As for classes, you have the following options, which are also slightly different than the Forgotten Realms fare:<br />
<ul>
<li>Cleric</li>
<li>Ranger</li>
<li>Knight</li>
<li>Fighter </li>
<li>Thief</li>
<li>Mage</li>
</ul>
Clerics can pick from different gods of the Krynn mythos (only those of good or neutral alignments, since PCs are not allowed to be evil). Which god they pick will determine what special abilities they get. There's a whole list of them (Paladine, Majere, Kiri-Jolith, Mishakal, Sirrion, Reorx, and Shinare). I'm not going to discuss what powers each one gives, but I will mention that my clerics are followers of Mishakal. She awards my clerics with three bonus spells (Charm Person, Remove Curse and Bless). Additionally, my clerics gain an additional +1 die on their healing rolls, making them really good healers. Those bonus spells really help starting out in the game. For example, my Cleric/Fighter/Mage has a ton of things to choose from before the adventure even begins (see picture below).<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJw3KXpOx64YGpkP2lbRonh0syclr_iRpMKnSH0UtDjgJOudKIDjMfPuIgHDe2J_t51q0eOYwpeLKcZQsAlGIU76lB9VYdFcck99e0XxFnMH1NTSIXBymgzSG5yPYV-Jd6xHp0yMrtBg/s1600/start_009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJw3KXpOx64YGpkP2lbRonh0syclr_iRpMKnSH0UtDjgJOudKIDjMfPuIgHDe2J_t51q0eOYwpeLKcZQsAlGIU76lB9VYdFcck99e0XxFnMH1NTSIXBymgzSG5yPYV-Jd6xHp0yMrtBg/s640/start_009.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thaddeus is ready to get the party started.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Part of that is because he is a follower of Mishakal. Part of it is because he is a White Robe Mage, and the White Moon was full when he memorized his spells, giving him bonus spells. If you notice the three circles at the top of the screen, they represent the three moons of Krynn, each colored White, Red and Black (though SSI went with dark blue since their background was already black). As the moons change phase, so does a magic-user's spell allowance. When their moon is full, they gain 2 bonus spells of any level. When it is a half moon, they receive one bonus spell. A new moon grants them no bonus spells.<br />
<br />
Obviously, camping at the right time is essential if you want bonus spells. So, it becomes part of the strategy of the game.<br />
<br />
Now that we've covered the mechanics of the game, let's get the adventure started...<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>THE STORY BEGINS: </b><br />
The story begins a few years after a major war on Krynn, called the <i>War of the Lance</i>, during which an evil goddess (called Takhisis) sent her draconians to conquer the lands of Krynn. Her forces were eventually defeated by a group of heroes with the aid of dragons. The draconians, who are the evil offspring of mutated dragon eggs, were driven away and killed.<br />
<br />
Outposts have been set up in various places within Krynn by the Solamnic Knights, who are sworn to protect the lands from evil. It is at one of these outposts that something is amiss. The commandant of the outpost near the ruined city of Throtl has been acting strangely, and a Solamnic Knight named Sir Karl Gaardsen is sent to investigate.<br />
<br />
The party meets him in Solace at The Inn of the Last Home and offers to accompany him to the outpost in the hopes of finding adventure. When they arrive at the outpost, Sir Karl goes to discuss matters with the commandant, but issues the party orders to scout the area near Throtl.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0eYsQD7yjhHuJghYp3I9Q0Nqo5ngUNh9CW0YFKsBDb5tDjcsq7zqPsfQT587952COnQtwbyhgP4gQ4hGgt84f8hD7lbOaIGsNw_WZmPw8h_2a4DtaiLaViRHJYMa3ioWT__iNapqeXY/s1600/start_007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0eYsQD7yjhHuJghYp3I9Q0Nqo5ngUNh9CW0YFKsBDb5tDjcsq7zqPsfQT587952COnQtwbyhgP4gQ4hGgt84f8hD7lbOaIGsNw_WZmPw8h_2a4DtaiLaViRHJYMa3ioWT__iNapqeXY/s640/start_007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sir Karl Gaardsen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
According to Sir Karl, the area has long since been cleared of most evil creatures. Dragons and draconians hadn't been seen in the area for quite some time, so the party would probably not have any issues. Still, he warned that they should head to the inn to memorize spells and probably buy some adventuring equipment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This being a good idea, the party checked into the local outpost inn and rested for the day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2HRcBXZIXH9GYGv4v2Tn3vJL1HH3dkoAhOkeGWOrFW1MDJb-XNMzSC4Yz2XJ4d0iefFNSWyQ8L7SMAeJYc6J8COGXgCb9yyiq4JL2_Xi-Yc5ZnDxTEfINsadUv3631zfo8ZWNJdugHQ/s1600/start_008.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2HRcBXZIXH9GYGv4v2Tn3vJL1HH3dkoAhOkeGWOrFW1MDJb-XNMzSC4Yz2XJ4d0iefFNSWyQ8L7SMAeJYc6J8COGXgCb9yyiq4JL2_Xi-Yc5ZnDxTEfINsadUv3631zfo8ZWNJdugHQ/s640/start_008.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are Inns usually outside?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once they had rested and outfitted themselves, the party headed out the gate of the outpost, leaving Sir Karl to deal with the politics of the place. With no idea what they'd find, the party headed north toward the ruined city of Throtl to scout, fully confident in the knowledge that the area has been properly patrolled by the knights in the outpost. If the commandant has been keeping up on his job, then--<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNkJDjOTF0g92ahnpjhVU-xWw0kY_Ew1g-X-aH3z1MIeEiv6_tHfGaKF8yYi2yZ3QfUh49C9m82NhBH2J8k5ROTOo6rxxG4u86S-QW6gcNNmVvGfjrz5HtFIpuKlhGEFELyHDldvteBE/s1600/start_010.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNkJDjOTF0g92ahnpjhVU-xWw0kY_Ew1g-X-aH3z1MIeEiv6_tHfGaKF8yYi2yZ3QfUh49C9m82NhBH2J8k5ROTOo6rxxG4u86S-QW6gcNNmVvGfjrz5HtFIpuKlhGEFELyHDldvteBE/s640/start_010.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Son of a bitch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not far from the outpost, the party encounters a caravan being attacked by Baaz Draconians(there are several different types of draconians, depending on which type of dragon egg was used to create them). These creatures that were no longer supposed to be in this area, and were rumored to be completely wiped out. Almost immediately, the party knows something strange is definitely going on around this outpost. The draconians rushed to attack, but Wil Dhargon acted first.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQVG7yMaYUcs45PoBzNmDhlIwjqqMbscS9C9l41LeKjo5s0fCYROi2LrIXaaFmryv_8K69LdjSUSHRbEWzaZu3vyPd21pbSZBY-RZSJJFvd6kU_JphJhokHX78pRdMUva54jFnCoRF-g/s1600/start_011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQVG7yMaYUcs45PoBzNmDhlIwjqqMbscS9C9l41LeKjo5s0fCYROi2LrIXaaFmryv_8K69LdjSUSHRbEWzaZu3vyPd21pbSZBY-RZSJJFvd6kU_JphJhokHX78pRdMUva54jFnCoRF-g/s640/start_011.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That Baaz Draconian looks angry.<br />
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Kender have the ability to taunt their opponents by shouting insults. This will anger an opponent who fails a saving throw, forcing them to rush toward the target and ignore all others, gaining a negative modifier to their armor class and making them easier to hit. The Baaz were whipped into a blind frenzy over what he said (I can only imagine that he insulted their heritage) and rushed straight at him.<br />
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When it comes to tactical combat, rushing straight at an opponent and passing others is not a smart move. It allows your enemies to get extra attacks on you. But, these draconians didn't seem to care.<br />
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However, the Baaz Draconians aren't without some special tricks of their own. Upon death, their bodies turn to stone. If you use a melee weapon against them, there is a chance that your weapon will get stuck in their bodies. While you can retrieve it after combat, you essentially will not have a weapon in hand (unless you ready another one) for the rest of the battle. This really hurts later when it happens to your favorite magical weapon.<br />
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The party had little trouble wiping out this small band of draconians. But, somehow, one of them managed to survive.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqM3nulRwJkHMonLVXmpdEbnXxvBQAM-RSJdccSKe96JgntHqDXpq529yVpiiEvnWHbKtmqkUChK-0jhWkms0CDrXz-KBq36nSJ9DKEX42_nhsK8LAFMGFrS6OvAk19AgH74q1Y_FjkY/s1600/start_012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqM3nulRwJkHMonLVXmpdEbnXxvBQAM-RSJdccSKe96JgntHqDXpq529yVpiiEvnWHbKtmqkUChK-0jhWkms0CDrXz-KBq36nSJ9DKEX42_nhsK8LAFMGFrS6OvAk19AgH74q1Y_FjkY/s640/start_012.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the heck was he hiding?</td></tr>
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A lone surviving draconian, who also appears different than the others (which means he is a different kind of draconian...in this case an Aurak Draconian) managed to grab a book and then pull a quick disappearing act before the party could respond. What was in the book? Why were these draconians even interested in this caravan in the first place?<br />
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Before the party can even consider these questions, the survivors from the caravan ask them for an escort back to the outpost. Being mostly good aligned, the party agrees, and returns to the outpost to tell Sir Karl of what has happened.<br />
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But, when they enter the commandant's office to give their report, they walk in on a fierce battle.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sir Karl is handy with a sword, apparently.</td></tr>
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The party arrives just in time to see Sir Karl kill the commandant. As the commandant dies, he changes shape to a Sivak Draconian. These foul draconians have the ability to shape change into whatever they want...so that means that a draconian has been in charge of the outpost for quite some time. The original commandant was probably killed.<br />
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It is then revealed that the commandant had been slowly replacing the Solamnic Knights in the outpost with his own men, all of whom are suspect and possibly draconians themselves. Sir Karl feels he cannot trust anyone within the outpost, and asks the party to work with him in rooting out the evil.<br />
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He mentions that Caramon Majere led a group of men into the ruins of Throtl, and that our first mission should be to go and find him and return him to the outpost.<br />
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I will say this for Champions of Krynn, it sure does pack a lot of story into a small space. The Krynn series was always heavy on the story...and that's a good thing.<br />
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Next time, the party heads into the ruins of Throtl...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-46638045007875277222012-01-27T12:17:00.001-05:002012-01-27T13:26:48.492-05:00GOLD BOX GAMES: A QUICK NOTEAs I prepare to embark upon my adventure in the land of Krynn, I just wanted to point out that the versions of the Gold-Box games that I'm playing are not in any way pirated. Here's a picture showing that I own all the Instruction/Journal Manuals and at least two of the original boxes.<br />
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SSI released the Gold-Box games on a single CD back in the early 1990s. I bought it. I didn't put it in the picture above only because I didn't think about it. Since many of my previously purchased disk copies would no longer load by the early 1990s (floppy disk technology was terrible), I thought it was a good purchase. Inside the box was an offer to buy all the manuals. They came on the CD in text format, which was awful...but this was before the days of PDF files. I bought them all and I've kept them in good shape.<br />
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The Gold-Box series of Advanced Dungeons and Dragons games are still my favorite CRPGs. I've had other games I've loved (Wasteland, Fallout, etc), but none will ever touch the magic of these. I just wanted to show you how much they meant to me by letting you know that I still own everything original required to play them, even the stupid code wheels.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278771985838123773.post-38906886549578604252012-01-26T16:26:00.003-05:002012-01-26T16:26:45.206-05:00POOL OF RADIANCE: ON HOLDSince my last posting, I've been pretty busy. I've tried to play Pool of Radiance a few times, but I'm honestly not feeling the game at all. I think it's because I just beat the game a few months ago (like back in October), and the thought of trudging through familiar territory again so soon fills me with serious dread.<br />
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I think what I'd rather do is play the Krynn series instead, starting with Champions of Krynn, working through Death Knights of Krynn, and then heading into Dark Queen of Krynn. I want to do that because blogs about Pool of Radiance have been done to death anyway, but I rarely see blogs about those games.<br />
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Also, the only Gold-Box game I have never solved is Dark Queen of Krynn. My version had a bug in it that made it impossible to win, so I only ever got about halfway through the game on my initial play through. Additionally, I have never tried to make the run with the same party (since I always played the games when they were released, and years passed between them...so I always lost my disks that had my save games in the meantime...not really an issue with hard drives).<br />
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So, if any of you are out there reading this blog, I hope you'll stick around as I shift gears. The blog is still in its baby steps age, and I'm still trying to figure out exactly how I want to approach things. I'll be glad to hear any suggestions.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4