Menu
News
All News
Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
Pathfinder
Starfinder
Warhammer
2d20 System
Year Zero Engine
Industry News
Reviews
Dragon Reflections
Columns
Weekly Digests
Weekly News Digest
Freebies, Sales & Bundles
RPG Print News
RPG Crowdfunding News
Game Content
ENterplanetary DimENsions
Mythological Figures
Opinion
Worlds of Design
Peregrine's Next
RPG Evolution
Other Columns
From the Freelancing Frontline
Monster ENcyclopedia
WotC/TSR Alumni Look Back
4 Hours w/RSD (Ryan Dancey)
The Road to 3E (Jonathan Tweet)
Greenwood's Realms (Ed Greenwood)
Drawmij's TSR (Jim Ward)
Community
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Resources
Wiki
Pages
Latest activity
Media
New media
New comments
Search media
Downloads
Latest reviews
Search resources
EN Publishing
Store
EN5ider
Adventures in ZEITGEIST
Awfully Cheerful Engine
What's OLD is NEW
Judge Dredd & The Worlds Of 2000AD
War of the Burning Sky
Level Up: Advanced 5E
Events & Releases
Upcoming Events
Private Events
Featured Events
Socials!
Twitch
YouTube
Facebook (EN Publishing)
Facebook (EN World)
Twitter
Instagram
TikTok
Podcast
Features
Top 5 RPGs Compiled Charts 2004-Present
Adventure Game Industry Market Research Summary (RPGs) V1.0
Ryan Dancey: Acquiring TSR
Q&A With Gary Gygax
D&D Rules FAQs
TSR, WotC, & Paizo: A Comparative History
D&D Pronunciation Guide
Million Dollar TTRPG Kickstarters
Tabletop RPG Podcast Hall of Fame
Eric Noah's Unofficial D&D 3rd Edition News
D&D in the Mainstream
D&D & RPG History
About Morrus
Log in
Register
What's new
Search
Search
Search titles only
By:
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Menu
Log in
Register
Install the app
Install
The
VOIDRUNNER'S CODEX
is LIVE! Explore new worlds, fight oppressive empires, fend off fearsome aliens, and wield deadly psionics with this comprehensive boxed set expansion for 5E and A5E!
Community
Playing the Game
Story Hour
Adventures in Eberron> Chapter 32 posted 08-08-05>
JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an
alternative browser
.
Reply to thread
Message
<blockquote data-quote="skullsmurfer" data-source="post: 2326805" data-attributes="member: 17151"><p><strong>►To Gnome or not to Gnome, Chapter 9</strong></p><p></p><p>►To Gnome or not to Gnome, Chapter 9 </p><p> </p><p> Foe Crusher heard a muted splashing sound. It has been stationed here since the Scribe's Guild purchased his contract from House Cannith at the beginning of the war. It all that time it has methodically categorized its work environment. The thick water sound came from the pool of sewage that flows from above. He detected no other sound, but it is likely that there is an intrusion. It killed a chuul last week, maybe it will be something smarter. Smart things fight much better than over sized vermin. The massive war-forged juggernaut turned, loudly cocking the mechanisms built into its arms. </p><p> </p><p> Theodyl and the changelings watched the over sized guardian turn to face Paragon 152 to 3. They are trapped in the bottle hanging from his waist. Theodyl realized the maniac isn't going to let them out. If Paragon wants a big fight, he's found it. </p><p> </p><p> “Unit identify yer self!” Paragon snapped in perfect military fashion.</p><p> </p><p> “J-442-Breland-267412, Foe Crusher.” The war-forged juggernaut responded after a short pause. The sound of it's fist striking it's chest echoed mightily though the chamber.</p><p> </p><p> “State yer Orders!”</p><p></p><p> “Sir, this unit is to guard this entry. Units bearing the command Sigil may pass..” the juggernaut stated, then paused again, “Please present your Sigil. You have only moments to comply.”</p><p></p><p> “At ease soldier!” Paragon 152 to 3 commanded. “This is Unit P-001-Command-Cyre-Prime.” The iron band around his head started to glow. Foe Crusher took a step backwards and waited for further orders like a proper soldier. “I have news for you. Foe Crusher, the war is over and there is a treaty that gives every war-forged the right to be free. Acknowledge!”</p><p></p><p> “Sir, I understand, what are my new orders, Sir?” Foe Crusher asked, his mind is already sluggish to begin with, the news are overwhelming. </p><p> </p><p> “Go to House Cannith, Sharn Depot 10346 for decommission. You can also collect your pay and file a complaint over this breach of contract. I order you to forget my description and my unit number. You are dismissed!” The iron band flashed brightly as if to emphasize Paragon's commands. If questioned, Foe Crusher will not be able to tell anyone anything of use. </p><p> </p><p> Foe Crusher turned and pulled his fist back again. A snap-hiss and a loud click sounded from the spring and piston installed within its arm. He took a running start and charged the entrance he's been protecting for so long. His fist drove into the doors, the mechanism tripped and an explosive discharge added power to the impact. The heavy armored portals buckled inward. The juggernaut's other fist came around. The impact shattered the doors sending flying debris in all directions. After that the Guild Library experienced a disaster. In its zeal to obey its orders, Foe Crusher took the quickest, most destructive route to the surface. The chaos provided the perfect cover. Paragon 152 to 3 pulled the cork on the magical bottle, letting his friends out.</p><p></p><p> “Now you let us out! What the hell did you say to that monster?”</p><p></p><p> Paragon looked at Theodyl and started laughing. “I can talk to a soldier better than you can sing.” He said. Theodyl sensed the truth of his words and scowled at his own tricks being used against him. The war-forged lied by telling a truth, he's learning. </p><p> </p><p> The changelings pulled up their hoods and readied themselves for a fight. Theodyl is frustrated, the war-forged is no slouch, but Theodyl considers himself the resident word twister in this gang. Pouting, the half-elf acknowledged the war-forged's point and promised to even the score later. Paragon, dripping with raw sewage, harrumphed and jogged into the Guild Library. The changelings followed close behind. Missing a sense of smell is a blessing at this point. </p><p> </p><p> Everyone knows where to go. Theodyl found up-to-date building plans at the Sharn City Records Office. It is a sure sign of how a well-organized organization can cut it's own throat. Theodyl thought he could hear Paragon singing amidst the panic caused by the juggernaut. He decided to find the gnome and bring the operation to a close before the war-forged exercised more of his improvisational skills. He was smiling again, the war-forged is a maniac.</p><p></p><p> “You there, where is the copy room?” Theodyl asked a gnome cringing under his desk. The gnome looked up and opened his mouth protest. When he made eye contact with Theodyl, however, he just answered the question promptly forgot it ever happened. Theodyl finished his spell and cursed. His gnome is 2 floors away.</p><p></p><p> Paragon led his Lads to the rooms designated for arcane research. The changelings each carried a specially designed sack. Magical items placed in those sacks are rendered safe for transport. They came in very handy during the magical arms race that dominated the war. You can't get traced, dominated, or cursed if the magic can't get to you. Though available only in small numbers, it is no surprise that so many were lost. Paragon will watch the door while the changelings steal everything that they can carry. Magic is almost better than money.</p><p></p><p> “Remember, scrolls are lighter. Rings and baubles come next. Careful with signet rings and seals they are usually trapped. I will take the heavy stuff, avoid flasks and bottles, they break and we might have to fight our way out. Oh, wands, get every one you can reach, Theodyl likes wands.” </p><p></p><p> Theodyl struggled to breathe as he ducked behind a door. The wet rag on his face is barely working. An iron golem is patrolling hall leading to the copy rooms. It is breathing poison gas. The half-elf surveyed the room until he saw a tell-tale sign of illusion. The shadows don't match and the colors vary slightly according to the amount of light available. </p><p></p><p> “Moro Taller, we have 7 minutes to leave here.” Theodyl announced. </p><p> </p><p> The empty space beneath the third desk on the left made a yelping sound. An unseen head bumped the bottom of the desk, followed by a whimper. A gnome crawled out from behind a rapidly fading illusory hide-out. Theodyl raised an eyebrow at his nervous client.</p><p></p><p> “Grab everything you want to take with you. Oh, and I need a drop of your blood on this here scroll.” Theodyl handed the gnome a scroll and a stylus with a kind of talon attached to the end.</p><p> </p><p> “W-what's this?”</p><p> </p><p> “Ever hear of a Murder Doll?” Theodyl asked. “Hurry up, time is limited.” The gnome gulped.</p><p></p><p> As the gnome's blood touched the scroll it's purpose became suddenly evident. A cold breeze tore through the room followed by an uncomfortable rise in humidity. The scroll began to swell and grow. Before Moro Taller's eyes, a gnomish body took shape. It grew a set of clothes. Then, it stood up and screamed at it's creator. Moro Taller yelped as he looked at what could only be his double. It growled and sprung up, reaching for the gnome. Theodyl stepped behind it and cut its throat.</p><p> </p><p> “Those things only live for an hour or so. They are animated by a weak animal spirit, very vicious. The Blood of Vol used to sell them to nobles who feared assassination. The uses are obvious.” Theodyl spoke as the terrified gnome rifled through the numerous shelves and stole for the very first time in his life. “We should leave before it reanimates and tries to eat us.”</p><p></p><p> “The golem won't obey me,” Moro whined and then froze as Theodyl's words sunk in, “I have a solution.” the gnome said quickly. Fear of being eaten, the primal motivator. He climbed up a shelf and dropped down holding up a battered scroll case.</p><p></p><p> Theodyl and his client squeezed past the iron golem. The scroll disabled it, but only for a moment. The gnome actually felt bad about using the item. There is no time for that, they have to run. Theodyl pulled a tiny lead and gold lined box from his many pockets. He used a wad of sticky goo to attach a shiny stone to the golem. The gnome asked a question, but his voice was drowned out by the sphere of silence projected by the stone. The House Sivis guard will not be able to order their golem to stop. More chaos.</p><p> </p><p> Moro tried to snatch at the stone. Theodyl put a stop to him and reminded the gnome that he was dead. Dead scribes don't care about their jobs anymore. He half dragged the gnome down the hall and down an empty set of stairs reserved for servants and private exits. Theodyl used an invisibility spell to sneak through the first floor and back down to the basement. They met Paragon and his Lads and escaped the same way they came. They all had heavy sacks in tow. The war-forged had an armored cabinet strapped to its back. They shared banter as they traveled. </p><p></p><p> Apparently the juggernaut released a fire salamander that was bound to the entry arch when it smashed its way out. Paragon told the story like it is a joke. The angry outsider decided to incinerate the Guild Library after one of the changelings tossed a bucket of sand at it. Patter, Siff and Ivor broke into laughter. Every magic user in the building is busy. It will be a long time before anyone does a head count. </p><p> </p><p> Moro Taller scowled at the sheer destruction. He wondered if this was what he wanted when he went to see the Inquisitive. He thought of his wife and his children. A moment later he shrugged his shoulders and hoped for the best. He's dead, it isn't his fault.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="skullsmurfer, post: 2326805, member: 17151"] [b]►To Gnome or not to Gnome, Chapter 9[/b] ►To Gnome or not to Gnome, Chapter 9 Foe Crusher heard a muted splashing sound. It has been stationed here since the Scribe's Guild purchased his contract from House Cannith at the beginning of the war. It all that time it has methodically categorized its work environment. The thick water sound came from the pool of sewage that flows from above. He detected no other sound, but it is likely that there is an intrusion. It killed a chuul last week, maybe it will be something smarter. Smart things fight much better than over sized vermin. The massive war-forged juggernaut turned, loudly cocking the mechanisms built into its arms. Theodyl and the changelings watched the over sized guardian turn to face Paragon 152 to 3. They are trapped in the bottle hanging from his waist. Theodyl realized the maniac isn't going to let them out. If Paragon wants a big fight, he's found it. “Unit identify yer self!” Paragon snapped in perfect military fashion. “J-442-Breland-267412, Foe Crusher.” The war-forged juggernaut responded after a short pause. The sound of it's fist striking it's chest echoed mightily though the chamber. “State yer Orders!” “Sir, this unit is to guard this entry. Units bearing the command Sigil may pass..” the juggernaut stated, then paused again, “Please present your Sigil. You have only moments to comply.” “At ease soldier!” Paragon 152 to 3 commanded. “This is Unit P-001-Command-Cyre-Prime.” The iron band around his head started to glow. Foe Crusher took a step backwards and waited for further orders like a proper soldier. “I have news for you. Foe Crusher, the war is over and there is a treaty that gives every war-forged the right to be free. Acknowledge!” “Sir, I understand, what are my new orders, Sir?” Foe Crusher asked, his mind is already sluggish to begin with, the news are overwhelming. “Go to House Cannith, Sharn Depot 10346 for decommission. You can also collect your pay and file a complaint over this breach of contract. I order you to forget my description and my unit number. You are dismissed!” The iron band flashed brightly as if to emphasize Paragon's commands. If questioned, Foe Crusher will not be able to tell anyone anything of use. Foe Crusher turned and pulled his fist back again. A snap-hiss and a loud click sounded from the spring and piston installed within its arm. He took a running start and charged the entrance he's been protecting for so long. His fist drove into the doors, the mechanism tripped and an explosive discharge added power to the impact. The heavy armored portals buckled inward. The juggernaut's other fist came around. The impact shattered the doors sending flying debris in all directions. After that the Guild Library experienced a disaster. In its zeal to obey its orders, Foe Crusher took the quickest, most destructive route to the surface. The chaos provided the perfect cover. Paragon 152 to 3 pulled the cork on the magical bottle, letting his friends out. “Now you let us out! What the hell did you say to that monster?” Paragon looked at Theodyl and started laughing. “I can talk to a soldier better than you can sing.” He said. Theodyl sensed the truth of his words and scowled at his own tricks being used against him. The war-forged lied by telling a truth, he's learning. The changelings pulled up their hoods and readied themselves for a fight. Theodyl is frustrated, the war-forged is no slouch, but Theodyl considers himself the resident word twister in this gang. Pouting, the half-elf acknowledged the war-forged's point and promised to even the score later. Paragon, dripping with raw sewage, harrumphed and jogged into the Guild Library. The changelings followed close behind. Missing a sense of smell is a blessing at this point. Everyone knows where to go. Theodyl found up-to-date building plans at the Sharn City Records Office. It is a sure sign of how a well-organized organization can cut it's own throat. Theodyl thought he could hear Paragon singing amidst the panic caused by the juggernaut. He decided to find the gnome and bring the operation to a close before the war-forged exercised more of his improvisational skills. He was smiling again, the war-forged is a maniac. “You there, where is the copy room?” Theodyl asked a gnome cringing under his desk. The gnome looked up and opened his mouth protest. When he made eye contact with Theodyl, however, he just answered the question promptly forgot it ever happened. Theodyl finished his spell and cursed. His gnome is 2 floors away. Paragon led his Lads to the rooms designated for arcane research. The changelings each carried a specially designed sack. Magical items placed in those sacks are rendered safe for transport. They came in very handy during the magical arms race that dominated the war. You can't get traced, dominated, or cursed if the magic can't get to you. Though available only in small numbers, it is no surprise that so many were lost. Paragon will watch the door while the changelings steal everything that they can carry. Magic is almost better than money. “Remember, scrolls are lighter. Rings and baubles come next. Careful with signet rings and seals they are usually trapped. I will take the heavy stuff, avoid flasks and bottles, they break and we might have to fight our way out. Oh, wands, get every one you can reach, Theodyl likes wands.” Theodyl struggled to breathe as he ducked behind a door. The wet rag on his face is barely working. An iron golem is patrolling hall leading to the copy rooms. It is breathing poison gas. The half-elf surveyed the room until he saw a tell-tale sign of illusion. The shadows don't match and the colors vary slightly according to the amount of light available. “Moro Taller, we have 7 minutes to leave here.” Theodyl announced. The empty space beneath the third desk on the left made a yelping sound. An unseen head bumped the bottom of the desk, followed by a whimper. A gnome crawled out from behind a rapidly fading illusory hide-out. Theodyl raised an eyebrow at his nervous client. “Grab everything you want to take with you. Oh, and I need a drop of your blood on this here scroll.” Theodyl handed the gnome a scroll and a stylus with a kind of talon attached to the end. “W-what's this?” “Ever hear of a Murder Doll?” Theodyl asked. “Hurry up, time is limited.” The gnome gulped. As the gnome's blood touched the scroll it's purpose became suddenly evident. A cold breeze tore through the room followed by an uncomfortable rise in humidity. The scroll began to swell and grow. Before Moro Taller's eyes, a gnomish body took shape. It grew a set of clothes. Then, it stood up and screamed at it's creator. Moro Taller yelped as he looked at what could only be his double. It growled and sprung up, reaching for the gnome. Theodyl stepped behind it and cut its throat. “Those things only live for an hour or so. They are animated by a weak animal spirit, very vicious. The Blood of Vol used to sell them to nobles who feared assassination. The uses are obvious.” Theodyl spoke as the terrified gnome rifled through the numerous shelves and stole for the very first time in his life. “We should leave before it reanimates and tries to eat us.” “The golem won't obey me,” Moro whined and then froze as Theodyl's words sunk in, “I have a solution.” the gnome said quickly. Fear of being eaten, the primal motivator. He climbed up a shelf and dropped down holding up a battered scroll case. Theodyl and his client squeezed past the iron golem. The scroll disabled it, but only for a moment. The gnome actually felt bad about using the item. There is no time for that, they have to run. Theodyl pulled a tiny lead and gold lined box from his many pockets. He used a wad of sticky goo to attach a shiny stone to the golem. The gnome asked a question, but his voice was drowned out by the sphere of silence projected by the stone. The House Sivis guard will not be able to order their golem to stop. More chaos. Moro tried to snatch at the stone. Theodyl put a stop to him and reminded the gnome that he was dead. Dead scribes don't care about their jobs anymore. He half dragged the gnome down the hall and down an empty set of stairs reserved for servants and private exits. Theodyl used an invisibility spell to sneak through the first floor and back down to the basement. They met Paragon and his Lads and escaped the same way they came. They all had heavy sacks in tow. The war-forged had an armored cabinet strapped to its back. They shared banter as they traveled. Apparently the juggernaut released a fire salamander that was bound to the entry arch when it smashed its way out. Paragon told the story like it is a joke. The angry outsider decided to incinerate the Guild Library after one of the changelings tossed a bucket of sand at it. Patter, Siff and Ivor broke into laughter. Every magic user in the building is busy. It will be a long time before anyone does a head count. Moro Taller scowled at the sheer destruction. He wondered if this was what he wanted when he went to see the Inquisitive. He thought of his wife and his children. A moment later he shrugged his shoulders and hoped for the best. He's dead, it isn't his fault. [/QUOTE]
Insert quotes…
Verification
Post reply
Community
Playing the Game
Story Hour
Adventures in Eberron> Chapter 32 posted 08-08-05>
Top