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A group of adventurers seek to atone for some grievous past sin they committed. |
| [Introduction]
To be perfectly honest, I made this story largely because I was bored. This will be a D&D style adventure, where there is a "Game Master" (That's me), serving as narrator as well as placing obstacles in the party's path. Also, I needed at least three people in the main group, but only two showed interest. So, I'll be doubling as the narrator and one of the group. I know that's not how this kind of thing usually works, but hey, rule of threes and all that. The basic premise is a group of adventurers seek forgiveness for some terrible deed they have committed in the past. By happenstance, they are all in the same chapel, praying for atonement, when the God of this world answers their prayers. If they can complete three seemingly impossible tasks, their sins will be forgiven. Thus, the adventure begins. Each player creates their own character to play as. They are to be introduced as follows... Name Race Class Skills Sin Everyone clear? Okay, lets get this adventure started! |
| Within the chapel of the Creator, all was silent. At the front of the temple, kneeling before the altar were three cloaked figures. They had never met before, but they were all bound by the one thing they shared. Each of them had committed some terrible deed in the past, causing them to be shunned and reviled by most civilized places. Only by atoning for their misdeeds, if even possible, could they ever be forgiven. Just then, a bright light suddenly shone from above them, enveloping them in its warmth as a great yet gentle voice echoed throughout the temple. "I have heard your prayers and seen your pasts. Each of you has sinned most grievously against me. But fear not, for you have not strayed beyond redemption. If the three of you can complete three mighty deeds together, your sins will be forgiven." A small orb of light floated down from above, hovering in front of the trio. "I am a herald of the Creator." It said in a soft, vaguely female voice. "I have been sent to guide you on your journey. I cannot intervene directly, but may still offer my wisdom and guidance. Please, reveal yourselves to me." The first and most physically imposing of the trio stepped forward, lowering his hood to reveal his face. Name: Korgar Race: Human Class: Barbarian Skills: Melee weapons master, super strength, immune to pain Sins: Slaughtered his family in a drunken rage during a feast. Labeled a kin-slayer and banished from his tribe. "I am Krogar of the Wolf Clan. Or rather, I was until that night at my tribe's annual feast of Gor-narn." |
| The second steeped forward, and dropped their hood, revealing their scaled features. Name: Skrick Race: Lizardfolk Class: Ranger Skills: Ambush expert. Strong swimmer. Can get into melee, as well as slay from a distance. Sins: Killed an innocent, who had been an identical sibling to his real target. "I am Skrick, a Bounty Hunter. I killed an innocent, who was the identical sibling to my intended target." |
| As the glowing Orb settled in front of the last cloaked figure, it waits patiently for the figure to announce itself and the great sin committed. After a count of ten, the figure had not answered, the Orb pulsates brightly and commands, "Speak, Cleric." Name: Darvok Race: Dwarf Class: Forge Cleric Skills: Wears heavy armor, front line fighter, massive damage, well versed combat healer. Sin: During combat in the middle of a small village, a Wizard cast a spell on Darvok causing him to go Berserk killing everyone who wasn't lucky enough to flee. "I am Darvok of No Clan. I killed unarmed men, women, and children. I am beyond redemption. |
| "Fear not. If you were truly beyond redemption, you would not have bothered coming here to ask forgiveness to begin with." The herald said. "Now, for your first task, you must go far to the west. There lives a man who was once a mighty hero long ago, but he has faded into obscurity after centuries of being out of practice. This man is under a most vile curse. No matter what is done to his body, he cannot be killed. His family and loved ones are long gone, and now he walks this world alone. Find a way to end his misery. Give him the death he yearns for." With that, the party exited the temple, mounting their steeds and riding west to find the supposedly immortal former hero. The herald accompanied them, still in orb form. After riding all day, they stopped in the center of a clearing to make camp for the night. As they slept on their bedrolls by the fire, a lone female wolf stepped into the clearing. Having not eaten in days, she was curious if they had any food and began rummaging through their satchels. |
| Skrick opened an eye, and looked. "You're not what you seem to be. Most wolves know better than to sneak up on another predator, unless they have help. You're a druid in Wild Shape. It's only polite to ask." |
| From behind a tree, Darvok appears. His battle hammer shimmering in the dark. Watching Skrick closely and looking for Korgar, Darvok eyes the druid warily, weapon readied. |
| The wolf hesitated, before changing back to her true form. To the group's surprise, the figure before them was much younger than they expected. She looked to be around ten to twelve years old, and judging by her pointed ears, was a half-elf. "Please." She said with begging eyes "I'm so hungry. I haven't eaten in days, and can sparsely find food around these parts. I didn't mean any harm, I just wanted some food." |
| Skrick looked at the child, and sighed. "It helps you more if you ask." He walked over to his pack and opened it. "Do you have a preference? I got mostly dried meat, but I do have some apples and pears in here. The others might have other things." As he spoke, he kept an eye on the half-elf. After all, they could be a changeling or some such thing - not necessarily evil, but there was still something warning the lizardman. |
| Darvok peers intently at the young-looking visitor and then at Korgar and Skrick. A decision is made and Darvok utters an unheard incantation. Addressing the waif, "Please tell us of what has happened to you and your clan." |
| The half-elf child frowned. "I have no clan or family. I was abandoned at birth, never knowing my parents." She gratefully munched on an apple Skrick handed to he as she continued. |
| "Looks like you joined one of the Druidic Circles," Skrick asked. "I can tell by the magic you got - Untamed Moon, or a similar order. I've encountered a few of that sort. They spend more time in Wild form than in their true form." |
| "Have you been trained in any of the Druid ways? If so, who was your Mentor? When in your Wild Form, do you not eat? Speak truly as you are with the Zone of Truth. All misinformation will be discovered. My companions may have other questions for you to answer." |
| "As I said, it's been difficult finding food in this area. I was briefly with a small clan of Druids, but was banished due to an unfortunate incident I'd really rather not talk about." Taking pity on the child, Korgar asked "Would you care to accompany us on our quest? Perhaps you may be of some help to us." The half-elf's eyes lit up in excitement. "You mean you'll be my family?" The three adventurers looked at each other. "Not exactly a family, per se. But you may think of it as that if you wish." "Oh thank you so much! I can't remember the last time I was welcome in a group of other beings!" "So what's your name?" "I was never given a formal name. But the druids I used to be with called me Robin." |
| "Well, you're welcome to join us," said Skrick. ""However, keep in mind that we are on a dangerous job - so if we tell you to stay back, we mean it." |
| "I am named Darvok. Do you require a weapon, or do you stay in your Wild Form while fighting? If you require a weapon, I can see what I have. With your size, alterations will be needed. What learning do you have of the Druid Ways?" |
| "I'm not much of a fighter." Robin admitted sheepishly. "I'm afraid all I learned of the Druidic arts was shapeshifting and some minor healing and alchemy studies." Fortunately, the trio happened to have a spare bedroll. Laying it out for their new party member, they slept the rest of the night without interruption. |
| Skrick was having trouble sleeping. He kept seeing the one he'd wrongly killed. He'd been a younger, and very similar-looking brother to the intended target that, from a great distance, Skrick had mistaken him for the bounty he'd been after. It wasn't until he'd gotten close that the lizard had realized his mistake. By that point, it was too late. |
| After everyone went to their bedroll, Darvok began thinking of what armor would best be suited for the young Druid. It would have to be flexible during the shape shift, durable, and lightweight. A staff would be the best weapon and easily carried by one of the others while in her Wild form. Thinking of the young waif was a much better company than his own thoughts. |
| The following morning, the group packed up camp and made their way west as the Herald had instructed. For several days they traveled without any major incidents, until coming to a small village on the outskirts of the kingdom. They stopped at the local tavern, both to rest and to gather any potential leads on who exactly they were looking for. as they sat around a table enjoying their meals, Robin asked "So, what exactly is this quest you're on? You still haven't told me." "We're on a quest of redemption." Korgar said "Our first task is to find a forgotten hero that supposedly can't die, and bring him peace." As he said this, someone sitting behind them inquired "I might know who you seek." They turned to see the village blacksmith. "Please, tell us." "Well, I don't know anything about a forgotten hero, but there's some strange fellow that lives in the abandoned fortress to the south of the village. He's been there longer than anyone can remember. Old man, but never seems to up and keel over, as though death itself is afraid to take him." "The one we seek cannot be harmed by physical means." Korgar said " Does that sound like this hermit you describe?" The blacksmith nodded "That's the really strange part. He's old but has the strength of a young man, still. There's been more than a few times where he's gotten into a fight in town, but anyone who tries to hurt him, he just shrugs it off like nothing! I've seen him shot, stabbed and bludgeoned, and he hardly even seemed to notice!" Thanking the blacksmith, the group finished their meals and set out to find this fortress he mentioned. |
| "I'm going to say this, before we plan to kill him, we might want to get to know him," said Skrick. "Figure out if he is still a good person, or if he has become corrupted. Likewise, figure out if he wants to die, or if he'll only allow death in a certain situation. I know of some folks who believe that they'll only get into Paradise if they die a Noble Death, like fighting a Worthy Enemy, or while protecting those who cannot fight. Likewise, some believe that if you die of sickness or old age, you don't get to go to the Really Nice place - you might get into the nice place, but you don't get to hang out with the Heroes, Gods, and other brave sorts." |
| "I agree with Skrick. If I was in his place, I would tire of those who wish to fight. Perhaps he knows why he can't be killed - maybe a curse by the gods. Talking with him may give an insight or clue how the give him peace." Turning his attention to Robin, "The wee lass will need protection, even if it is cloth armor. I can create something for her. It would only take a day or two. The material I need isn't costly. I may have what I need." |
| The group made a brief stop for Darvok to craft some light armor for Robin, fashioning her a set from some spare materials he had on him. Afterwards, they found the fortress the blacksmith had described. From the look of the place, it had indeed been abandoned for who knows how long? One would likely never think to find a former hero living in a place like this. Perhaps that's why he chose this place to begin with. Standing at the edge of the moat surrounding the fort, Korgar calls out "Hello? Is anyone there?" No response, but for a single arrow that comes flying over the parapet, embedding itself in the ground at the party's feet. "Real friendly fellow." Robin sarcastically remarks. "Go away!" A gruff voice calls from beyond the wall. "I came here to be left alone! I have no desire for company!" "We're here to help you!" Korgar calls back "We've heard of your affliction, and want to help you end it!" The drawbridge lowers and standing in the entryway in an obviously very aged human male. "How can you possibly help me?" He said "For over five hundred years I have wandered this world. No villain or beast could slay me in my prime, nor can they now." "We have been sent by the Creator to end your curse." Korgar explained "Surely there must be some way?" The old man scoffed "The Creator sent you? It was they who cursed me in the first place! Apparently I did something to offend them. Not that I ever knew what exactly. Perhaps they saw me as too arrogant and prideful in my youth. Regardless, everyone I have ever cared about is now gone. Only now, does the Creator decide to end my misery? In any case, you're wasting your time. No weapon nor force can harm me. I've tried every conceivable way to end my life. None were successful." |
| "Well, last I checked, it was still good manners to allow weary travelers a room for the night, and a bite of food, if you have it," said Skrick. "Usually a Guest isn't planning to kill the Host," the man said. "We won't make any attempts until at least tomorrow," said Skrick. "Who knows, maybe we'll end up talking you to death." The human stared at the lizardman. Then, they laughed. "Well, in that case, I guess I could use some friendly conversation." |
| While everyone was crossing the drawbridge, Darvok began to focus on his ready spells. the one in question was Divination. With the proper worded question to the god, a truthful answer will be given. darvok did not know if this type of spell had been used before. He planned on bringing it up with Korgar and Skrick alone to get their feedback and suggestions. If it was decided, the host would be advised. If that spell failed, he could also attempt a Remove Curse. |
| As if reading Darvok's mind, the old hero said "For those of you who can use magic, don't bother trying to lift my curse with it. Believe me I tried. I went to the best sorcerers and witches across the land for help. None of them could." He led them to a dining hall. "I wasn't expecting company, so I don't have much food to spare at the moment. Not that I really need to eat anymore. Mostly do it out of habit." Their host was gracious enough to give the group some legs of mutton he had available. Robin, however, hesitated. "I don't mean to be rude, but being raised with druids, I don't eat meat." "I have a barrel of apples in the larder. Help yourself." As they ate, Korgar asked "So you were once a famous hero, eh? Any good stories to tell?" The old man chuckled. "Probably nothing you haven't already heard. I've slain villains threatening the land, saved innocent folk from various threats, even killed a dragon or two. Pretty standard stuff." |
| "What's the scariest?" Skrick asked. "Well, I'd have to say, that would be the darkness that lies within the hearts of people," the old man said. "There was an orc that was part of my group, big, strong - threw me across this cavern so that I could protect these travelers on the other side that had been attacked by bandits until he and the rest could travel across this bridge that only let folks come one at a time - and a sight to see on the battlefield he was." He chuckled. "He also had a soft, gentle side - we came across this little kitten, a stray, lost it's mother. He picked this thing up, and took care of it. We're talking about an ordinary cat - not even a wildcat, nor one of the big cats - just a regular little meow cat. Became our mascot actually." He sighed. "He didn't deserve what happened to him." "What happened?" Skrick asked. The old man got out a glass, and a jug. "He decided to settle down in a town that was mostly populated with humans, elves, and dwarves. He fell for a woman, a good woman from a good family. The family didn't like him, said that he was too much of a brute for their daughter. Of course, money talks, and he proved that he had plenty of money - built a big house, picked out a diamond the size of a robin's egg from his loot, along with a bunch of other fine gems, and asked our one dwarf party member, who knew how to craft jewelry, to make a wedding bracelet with them, along with some gold. This guy knew what he was doing, and with the help of an elf friend of ours, well, it was one of a kind. This thing could open with the right touch in the right place, so that one could take it off if need be, and could be adjusted to fit the wearer. As for the gems, they were wonderful, as was the silver inlay on the gold band. A blind man could have seen the beauty in it. Of course, during this time, she had fallen for him, being able to see past the brutish muscles, to see his truer nature, his kindness, his gentleness, and how he cared for her as a person, and not for her family's money. Well, one day, he presented the bracelet to her, in front of all, saying that it was a gift, a token of his appreciation for her, and, he asked her to be his wife." "What happened?" Robin asked. "Let's just say that money has a way of smoothing over most folks misgivings, along with free food and drink that come with a wedding, after she accepted," the old man said. "That is to say, most. The family didn't appreciate the idea, and the brother tried to hit the woman. Key word, tried to. Well, my friend was quick enough to switch places with the woman, and took the blow meant for her. The brother screamed, every finger in his hand broken - let me tell you, even with healing magic, that hand would never feel right. My friend simply brushed the area he'd been hit at and said, 'Dat tickles.' Aside from the in-law issues, he and his wife were very happy, and some months later, they became even more happy, when they found out that she was expecting." "Sounds pretty good so far," said Skrick. "But something tells me that it didn't end well." The old man nodded, as he poured whiskey into the glass. "Despite his wealth, my friend didn't like sitting around doing nothing, so he decided to become a Temp Caravan Guard - got a guy that took a blow and needs rest to recover, my friend would fill in for them. Need an extra sword for a few days, due to bandit rumors, he'd be the extra sword. He even turned in some bandits for their bounty along the way, and even those who didn't like orcs had to give him a grudging respect. Then, that fateful day came." The old man swallowed his whiskey. "He came home one day, to find his home having been burnt to the ground, his wife and child dead. As it was, I had arrived in the prior town, to catch up with him, and we were going to have some beers in his home town, but he had to see his family first. But, when we'd entered the town, things were wrong. Everyone was afraid, and we found out why. He let out a roar of pain unlike any I'd ever heard of, and I've heard plenty cry out in pain. We did some investigation, found the outlaws that had done the deed, and we soon learned the truth - the in-laws had hired them to kill his wife and child, as well as torch the place, and kill him if possible. There was a look in my friend's eyes - I stepped back, and I watched him take them on - he needed no help. All the bandits laid dead soon after that. Then, on his own, he went after his in-laws - he allowed the guards and servants to leave the place, as well as those who were not involved in the murder, though he had to hurt some to get the message to leave into their skulls. As for them responsible, well, there wasn't much left in one piece after he was done. Then, he set fire to the place. Then, he went to his home, laid by his family, and finally succumbed to the grievous wounds that had been inflicted upon him, dying alongside those he loved." |
| "Sounds like a hero to me. You all do." After a pause, Darvok continued, "I have seen many battles. The atrocities committed by those who act on impulse or emotions. I understand what good people feel after. It's a sick feeling in the gut." "What your friend did was justice. He deserved better-his family deserved better." "Evil is not something that just happens. It is the hearts-festering until it erupts like an infected wound." "Those of good hearts, like your friend and others," Darvok looks at the faces of all present, "Are trapped in what they have done. There they stay-until the final judgement is given." "I reckon you know all this already." |
| "Indeed I do. But anyway, I'm sure you must all have come a long way to find me, and must be tired. There are plenty of spare rooms in this place. Take your pick." "Sounds good." Korgar said as he finished his mutton. "We can work out how to kill you tomorrow." It felt strange, telling their host that they would kill him in the morning. Even stranger was that he didn't take offense. But given the circumstances, everyone ignored the awkward situation and went to find a bed for the night. |
| Try as he could, Skrick had a hard time sleeping. He kept seeing the face of the man he'd killed. Some say that lizardfolk don't have emotions. They were wrong. Lizardfolk had them. They just didn't show them in a manner most mammals could read. Skrick's eyes shot open. Once again, he'd watched his arrow piece the man's heart, and heard the cries of his loved ones. If it had been the right target, he wouldn't have felt much, maybe some pity for the family, but knowing that it had been an innocent person...... it felt like he'd done murder. He walked to the dining area, where the old man sat. He was drinking some whiskey. "Need a drink or two after reliving those memories," he said. "What about you? Do you drink?" "Sometimes," said Skrick. The old man poured into another glass, and offered it to him. The lizardman accepted, and drank. "So, why aren't you sleeping?" the old man asked. "Bad memory," said Skrick. "What kind?" "I killed someone who didn't warrant killing," said Skrick. "Mistook them for their brother, who deserved death." |
| Darvok didn't dream that night-at least that he could remember. Prior to sleep, he performed his clerical rituals, praying to his god for forgiveness and resolution. He knew deep down neither would come. Wanting his mind to stop replaying the tragic afternoon, he busied himself with all the mantras of his faith. Tomorrow would arrive wanted or not. |
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