K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20-1=7 d20-1=17 Monday August 13th, 2001 7:33:28 AM
K'Nara advanced down the tunnel, the occasional flare-ups causing her hazel eyes to blink every once in a while, but her ears sharpened to the sounds of the passageway ahead. (OOC: Spot check is 7; Listen check is 17.)
Figment d20=16 d20=15 Monday August 13th, 2001 9:04:12 AM
The mage looks closely at the cave walls for any sign of recent passage or anything that would betray the creators of it to him. He also listens closely to and tries to filter out any sounds coming from the dwarves. (Spot 16, listen 15)
Olana d20+2=15 d20+2=8 Monday August 13th, 2001 5:10:30 PM
Edging forward, Olana shivers a little, affected by the spooky atmosphere of the tunnel. To diminish the feeling she gives Milo a wink as he steps alongside. Keeping all her senses alert,she moves along by the light of K'Nara's sword. ((Spot 15, Listen 8))
Walking along several feet behind K'nara and her Flaming Blade (No Bertram, not YOU), Ingrge glances up at the stray spider webs and mumbles to himself. "You know, the only thing that I really hate other than Mr. Green Scaly, are spiders. They are, as a whole, sneaky, evil, vile, poisonous, good for nothing beasts."
Milo d20+14=21 d20+8=14 d20+6=13 d20=19 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 2:19:14 AM
Milo smiles half heartedly at Olana, concern clearly etched across his face. In the dim light, it is clear that his knuckles are whitening as he grips his sword tighter and tighter. Nearly holding his breath, he proceeds around the corner as quietly as possible, still looking for traps. (OOC: Made move silently, search/traps, listen, and spot checks at DCs 21, 14, 13, and 19 respectively)
End of the Line... (DM Chris) Tuesday August 14th, 2001 2:38:02 AM
As the group proceeds around the corner, it is clear to many of the Talons, that the sounds they were hearing are indeed the dwarves working behind them. In fact they can now clearly hear the sound of a not-so-well oiled cart hauling a load back up the passage. Ahead of the group is what appears to be a dead end, stopping approximately twenty feet from the corner. Here, there is indeed a strange sight. A cot, desk, and chair adorn this chamber on one side, and on the other, a small pit for cooking stands cold, over which is proped a tripod from which hangs a small iron kettle. The desk is simple, having but a single drawer, closed and bearing a keyhole.
K'Nara Tuesday August 14th, 2001 6:28:45 AM
K'Nara blinked amazed hazel eyes.
"Well--it's either the Wold's first underground accounting office, or it may be that this is where our bug-lovin' ex-wizard/council member had a secret office of some sort...let's see if any of this stuff is magic, hmm...?" With that, the newly-acquired ability to invoke such magic welled up in the tall human woman. K'Nara spoke the arcane words that simply came to her mind, casting Detect Magic in the area.
Figment d20+13=23 d20+13=30 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 10:59:11 AM
The mage smirks at K'Nara's attempt at magic, but is impressed at it's effectiveness. "I would think we should look closely for any secret passages as well. He had to get back here some way. Perhaps a teleportation circle or something.". The mage looks around for any signs of magic transport (Percept. Int + Knowledge, Arcana, Int+spellcraft= 23,30).
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 14th, 2001 2:21:03 PM
Bertram keeps an eye to the rear looking for any potential problems that might surprise them from that direction.
Olana d20+8=25 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 8:34:44 PM
Olana chuckles at Ingrge's comment and adds - "Well I've had enough creepy crawlies for now." As they reach the dead end, she has a quick look around for any secret passages and such while the others check out the passages' contents. "Two acorns and a set of bumble bee wings says you can't open that drawer," she whispers to Milo, before joining Bertram in guarding the passage. ((Search skill check = 25))
Milo d20+8=12 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 9:17:25 PM
Milo visibly relaxes when there is no apparent danger, and sheaths his short sword. Looking up at Olana's suggestion, his nose twitches, and he smiles, "You're on." The halfling approaches the desk cautiously, and rubbing the tips of his fingers together, begins searching the keyhole for possible traps. Turning to look at Olana, "Looks safe, though ya'll should stand back a few feet, just in case." With that, Milo reaches up underneath his cloak to produce a pair of very fine steel pins.
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 14th, 2001 10:46:06 PM
Bertram turns from guarding for a moment, smiling at Olana. "Couldn't resist my charm I see Lass?" He chuckles and goes back to guarding the tunnel.
Observations... (DM Chris) Wednesday August 15th, 2001 12:57:22 PM
Standing guard at the chamber's entrance, Bertram and Olana see no activity, though they can hear the other Talons moving about the chamber behind them.
Figment finds no secret passages as he moves about the room studying the walls... in fact the walls are about as featureless as you can get. It is almost as if they were molded by the hand of a sculpter.
As K'nara casts her spell and begins to concentrate, initially, she gets a feeling of magic from all around her.
Figment d20+13=22 d20+7=26 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 2:09:55 PM
Upon scrutiny of the walls, an uneasy feeling comes over the mage as he realizes things just aren't 'right' (Int + spellcraft - 22). He casts Detect Magic to get his own look at what is going on. "Let's not dally here guys. I'm thinking we're standing in a magical trap or illusion. Lets quickly back out of here until we get it solved.". The mage looks for signs of an illusion as he tries to get the other to move out (Will save, DC 26).
Olana Wednesday August 15th, 2001 6:53:58 PM
The elf grins at Bertram. "Well, someone has to keep this lot out of trouble. Might as well be us, eh?" She backs up a little way, as Figment starts to have misgivings. "Thats the trouble with these tunnels," she adds - her mind having an uncommon 'enlightened by physics' moment. "If anything goes BOOM, then there's nowhere else for it to go except toward us."
Ingrge d20+12=30 d20+12=28 d20+7=20 d20+5=25 d20+4=18 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 7:41:44 PM
staying with Figment, Ingrge pays more attention the the desk and the actuall space surrounding it. Looking for anything that might have the hint of magical not rightness to it. (knowledge arcana 30, spellcraft 28, concentration 20, search 25 (nat 20), and will save 18)
K'Nara d20+2=12 d20=17 Thursday August 16th, 2001 6:29:12 AM
The human bladesinger frowned as she attempted to contemplate the possibility of this whole area simply being carved out of the rock by magic. (OOC: Spellcraft check 12.)
"There doesn't seem to be anything else here in the way of secret doors or spellbooks or anything, hmmm..?" she asked as she poked about here and there. (OOC: Search check 17.) "If you didn't find anything, either, Milo, we may as well get out of here as Figment suggests--I get the feeling that our late traitor probably made this part himself...though only the gods know what for." As soon as everyone in this area reported what they did or didn't find, K'Nara resolved to get the group back to the dwarf clan homesite--Dakar's armor still needed repair and they would all be needing to rest up.
Flueterflam Thursday August 16th, 2001 7:19:13 AM
Having been quiet for awhile, Fluet mutters quietly, "This is either gonna be really good or really bad. And I sure as hell don't wanna find out if it's the latter." The bard stays back near Bertram.
Milo d20+12=31 Thursday August 16th, 2001 11:58:00 PM
"Hang on a sec K'nara, I'm about to pry this drawer open." With that, Milo sets himself to working on the lock.(OOC: Made Open Locks check DC 31)
Magic, magic everywhere, and not a drop to drink... (DM Chris) d4+12=16 Friday August 17th, 2001 12:16:16 AM
As Figment takes a closer look at the walls, he is certain that they are not illusory. However, they were definitely shaped using magic from the school of transmutation, but which spell is beyond his reckoning.
Ingrge is also convinced that illusion is not a factor here, and for all intensive purposes, the desk looks quite ordinary.
As K'nara's detect magic spell continues to do its work, she realizes that she is getting two distinct magic emanations. One is residual, and is coming from the walls around her, and the other is specific though latent, and coming from the keyhole in the desk, and then suddenly it goes active.
As Milo is deftly manipulating the tumblers on the lock, a resounding click can be heard throughout the chamber, and the halfling's eyes grow wide as a magical glyph that he had not noticed in the keyhole previously, flares up, discharging fire in a five foot radius. (Milo and Ingrge take 16 hps damage from the fire trap unless they make a reflex save DC 18 for half)
K'Nara Friday August 17th, 2001 7:23:32 AM
"Milo, wait a--" K'Nara's warning came a split-second too late, as the deft rogue's skill at lockpicking proved better than her ability to recognize what her Detect Magic cantrip had been trying to tell the arcanely-inexperienced bladesinger.
Fire flared up and out, catching the area that held Milo and Ingrge.
"Milo--INGRGE!!!" K'Nara yelled in panicked concern.
Figment Friday August 17th, 2001 9:25:05 AM
Having avoided the blast, the mage makes sure Ingrge and Milo are 'OK'. He then opens the droor to see if there is anything left inside. That is, if he detects no more magic. If there is another glyph, he tries to disarm it or at least show it to Milo. "Man, I am amazed we were able to take this guy out when we confronted him in his house. He has spells that are quite beyond me. But at least I know of them. When you see magic you can't even fathom, it's then you'd better run - fast.".
Milo d20+9=25 Friday August 17th, 2001 12:17:32 PM
As the glyph flares, Milo realizes that he missed a trap... and a potentially lethal one at that. Without a second thought, the halfling somersaults backwards into a handstand, and flips right into K'nara, tumbling less that gracefully to the ground as he collides into the larger warrior, whom he forgot was in the room behind him. "Oops... I guess I missed that magic trap... those are the tough ones." Milo shrugs his shoulders as he is lying on the ground, but looks otherwise unharmed. (OOC: Made Reflex save at DC 25 plus evasion ability allows Milo to remain unharmed)
Dakar Friday August 17th, 2001 2:09:42 PM
Dakar shields himself from the glow and looks at the others. "Argh," he says "Next time warn me before you turn the lights on so much." He limps a bit still, although his wounds are mostly closed he is breathing heavily, a possible sign of internal injuries remaining.
Olana Friday August 17th, 2001 6:52:40 PM
Blinking in alarm as the trap goes off, the elf asks - "Is everyone alright?" Olana will help everyone get back on their feet before resuming guard duty.
Ingrge d20+5=18 Friday August 17th, 2001 7:57:59 PM
Having just bent down to inspect the wall a bit closer when the fireball goes off and luckily most of it washes over his back, as it knocks him down. (made save just barely)
Picking himself up off the floor, Ingrge is mumbling. "*#$@*&$*" Dadgummit Milo, I thought you were good at this sort of thing!" Well is there anything left of the desk and it's contents?
Flueterflam Friday August 17th, 2001 10:26:12 PM
The bard jumps back surprisedly. "WHOA! Glad I decided to stay back here." And just to make sure, Fluet takes yet another step back, in case something else happens.
Throw the book at 'em.... (DM Chris) Saturday August 18th, 2001 12:58:19 AM
Opening the drawer, Figment notices that it contains a single tome, bound in fine black leather, and shut with an ornate silver clasp with a lock. The book is remarkably unharmed by the fire trap, though the desk itself is a bit crispy.
Figment (Detect Magic) Saturday August 18th, 2001 1:56:18 PM
The mage scans the book for magical traps. If none are found he says "Looks like we may have found some information about how he made those bugs. Before anyone touches it I would say one of our good men of faith might see if they can determine if it is too evil for us to touch - although I doubt it. I'd also say we give Milo another crack at looking for traps.".
K'Nara (Detect Magic still in effect, Lucia on) d20+4=8 d20+1=21 Monday August 20th, 2001 6:16:56 AM
Unable to keep her balance after the nimble Milo's acrobatics to avoid the fire trap result in the halfling's flipping onto (and bouncing off of) her, K'Nara landed on her butt in the middle of the chamber (OOC: missed a Dex check to remain standing, but easily made a Str check to keep her grip on her still-Flaming Sword). The redhead--once she realized that neither Milo nor Ingrge were seriously harmed by the fire--glared at the rogue/cleric, looking for a moment as though she'd love nothing better than to intimately acquaint him with Lucia, her Flame Tongue sword. Then she rolled her hazel eyes and laughed.
"Next time, my friend," K'Nara told Milo, "I'd like a bit of warning before you decide to make me a human trampoline, hmmm..?" The bladesinger grinned, winked, and then hauled herself to her feet. "ooooOUCH!" K'Nara moved a bit stiffly, since her sore bottom was protesting the abuse it just suffered, and she eyed the newly-revealed book to see if her Detect Magic spell indicated whether the tome was another arcane one or not.
Milo d20+8=17 Monday August 20th, 2001 12:38:01 PM
Shrugging his shoulders while attempting his most ingratiating smile to K'nara, Milo steps over to the desk, and carefully lifts the book out of the drawer, all the while, checking the clasp and bindings for traps. Eyeing Figment briefly with a smirk on his lips, "I am a person of faith... if you mean cleric. Alemi watches over my every move... and I'm sure he is laughing sometimes." (OOC: Made search check DC 17)
Olana Monday August 20th, 2001 5:56:51 PM
Inquisitive as always, Olana asks - "Oooh whats in that book? I bet it's full of spells or something." She then turns to Bertram and Fluet, and says with a wink - "That'll keep Ingrge and Figment quiet for a while I should think."
Ingrge d20+2=22 d20+5=18 d6=3 Monday August 20th, 2001 7:54:49 PM
Steping to the rear as the other crowd the desk to see the book, Ingrge checks out the passage way that led to the chamber looking for any hidden ways. (spot check 22, search check 18 racial check 3)
Brother Bertram d20+2=19 Monday August 20th, 2001 10:46:20 PM
While waiting Bertram starts examining the ceiling and the floor for any hidden features.
(OOC Stone Cunning +2)
Getting to know your surroundings... (DM Chris) Tuesday August 21st, 2001 5:06:44 AM
As Bertram examines the walls and ceiling of the room around him, he finds it rather unsettling how devoid of 'features' they truly are. The stone here doesn't appear naturally formed, or cut and mined either, but rather molded like clay.
Checking out the passageway that the group recently traversed, Ingrge notes that it is much like the room itself... devoid of natural features, or even the regular cut and groove of mining, dwarven or otherwise. There do not appear to be any secrets hidden in the walls however.
As Figment and Milo examine the tome, they don't seem to find anything that resembles a trap, magical or otherwise. As K'nara concentrates on her spell, she picks up a residual, left-over magic coming from the book, however whatever magic was in the book is gone now.
K'Nara Tuesday August 21st, 2001 6:22:39 AM
"Hmmmph..." the human bladesinger frowned thoughtfully, "I get the distinct feeling that the fire trap was the only thing magic about that book." K'Nara glanced over at Figment and then Ingrge for their concurrence.
"If that's the case, let's just take the book with us and return to the clan's homesite." the leader of the Emerald Talons said firmly. "We can take a good look at it there, and see to healing up Dakar and his mangled armor as well." K'Nara took a few steps towards the exit of the cavern.
Flueterflam Tuesday August 21st, 2001 8:50:10 AM
The bard twiddles his thumbs playfully. He appears to be thinking to himself. Fluet looks into the room and out into the tunnel, noting how everything looks to himself. A face that once gets when trying to start a gigantic puzzle is etched across his face.
Figment Tuesday August 21st, 2001 11:01:16 AM
The mage looks at the new upstart magic wielder with a smile and nods. "Even though you are probably correct - and I agree with you - I'd suggest we try to open the book here, K'Nara. I'd hate to have overlooked something and the dwarves pay for our folly. It may also give us some idea as to how the old geezer got in and out of here. Might provide us a way out from this location, or at least an idea of how he created those bugs. And by the way, I suspect this passageway and room were formed by a some form of transmutation magic. Most likely a customized spell - just so you know...".
Figment Tuesday August 21st, 2001 11:01:51 AM
The mage looks over the clasp and hands the book to Milo to jimmy the lock of the Tome.
Olana Tuesday August 21st, 2001 4:25:09 PM
Olana nods as K'Nara suggests returning. "I'll get up front shall I, and check for bugs?" she asks.
Milo d20+12=30 Tuesday August 21st, 2001 11:00:52 PM
Taking the book, Milo sits down at the desk, and begins to work on the lock. It only takes a few moments, and 'POP' the clasp unlocks. Undoing the clasp, Milo opens the book, and gets up so Figment can sit down and have a look, "There you go, he really didn't want to keep anything secret with a simple lock like that..." The halfling smiles, as he steps away. (OOC: Made an open locks roll at DC 30)
Revealed at last... (DM Chris) Tuesday August 21st, 2001 11:04:16 PM
As the book is opened, Figment can see that the pages are a mish mash of notes, scribbles, and general what-not. Though written in the common tongue, it could take a while to piece together the man's thoughts.
K'Nara (Lucia on) Wednesday August 22nd, 2001 7:17:29 AM
K'Nara nodded to Olana, but then waved for the ranger to hold up temporarily as Figment glanced over the open book.
"Okay to travel now, Figment..?" she asked as it became apparent that the book held nothing immediately dangerous within its pages. "Dakar looks like he needs help--if there isn't anything else, we ought to go back now."
Figment Wednesday August 22nd, 2001 10:41:00 AM
The mage peruses the pages for a few moments and then makes his pronouncement. "Looks like this is merely his notebook - nothing terribly important or dangerous best I can tell. I will want to examine it in great detail as soon as I can though...".
He pauses a moment and then says "Do you think it would be best to return to the dwarves now or do you think it would be better to prepare our escape from this place and THEN return to the dwarves. The soldiers might be waiting for us in their village area but I doubt they'd come down here. I'm sure Parnoth has told them to prepare for it. Just a thought - hey Orgar, have the soldiers ever comne down to your homes?".
Olana Wednesday August 22nd, 2001 4:21:06 PM
The elf waits until they've figured out what to do with the notebook. As Figment mentions their escape, she adds - "Maybe the dwarves know a quiet way out of here, away from the guards."
Ingrge Wednesday August 22nd, 2001 6:08:11 PM
Pacing and looking back at the others and still a bit surly from getting burned, Ingrge snaps. "Hey are you all done back there yet? I want get out of here some time before Parnot Hatches eggs."
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 22nd, 2001 6:51:12 PM
Bertram looks about the hidden tunnel and scratches his head. "I still get the feeling we haven't really taken care of my cousins problems. Granted the bugs are dead, but something still bothers me about this. Of course I have been known to be paranoid upon occasion too." Bertram smiles bemusedly, continuing to stare down the tunnel looking for answers.
Milo Thursday August 23rd, 2001 4:02:33 AM
Finished with his business in this cave, Milo steps into the hallway past the dwarves, along side Olana. Looking up to the elf he winks, "I'm ready to smell fresh air again... how 'bout you?" Looking back to K'nara and Figment, "Hey guys, are we leaving or what?"
You Rang? (DM Chris) Thursday August 23rd, 2001 4:06:38 AM
Though not present in the room previously, Orgar appears from the passage, as if summoned by convenience alone, "Uh... we are about done cleaning up out here.. and we have a beer cart waiting back at your camp if you wanna follow me outta here." The dwarf miner looks around at the group, with a look of genuine gratitude upon his face.
K'Nara Thursday August 23rd, 2001 7:33:38 AM
"I got the definite feeling that the most those knotheads that Parnoth dares to call 'troops' would do is force ONE of them to come down here to demand that one of us goes UP to them to make a report." the woman warrior said with a derisive snort. "Let's go back--we can heal up residual damage, repair armor and go over the stuff in the notebook...and figure out if we are truly done here." K'Nara smiled slightly--she rather liked the drinks this clan of dwarves served.
Flueterflam Thursday August 23rd, 2001 8:33:38 AM
Quietly, almost to himself more than anyone, Fluet mumbles, "I agree with Bertram, this is just too strange." The bard then looks to Bertram. "I'm sure there's something missing in this. But I can't figure it out..."
Figment Thursday August 23rd, 2001 2:03:33 PM
The mage nods to K'Nara. "Sounds good. Say Dakar, could you do me a favor and reduce this desk to splinters? I am wondering if there is anything left here we haven't discovered as well. If there are secret compartments, that will reveal them. Other than that, I'd say we're done except evaluating this book.".
Olana Thursday August 23rd, 2001 7:23:59 PM
The elf chuckles at K'Nara's appropriate use of the word 'knothead', gives Milo a wink, and sets off toward the dwarf cavern.
Ingrge Thursday August 23rd, 2001 9:38:50 PM
Happier that they seem to be finally getting ready to head back out from under all this god forsaken stone, Ingrge takes the lead and steps back in to the cavern.
Milo Friday August 24th, 2001 2:17:41 AM
Ready to be off, Milo walks happily beside Olana as they leave the wizard's cave, and begins to hum a merry little tune under his breath as they go.
Slowly moving on... (DM Chris) Friday August 24th, 2001 2:26:42 AM
As the Talons slowly but surely begin to pick up and exit the strange cavern, they note that the sounds of working dwarves from the last cave where they battled the beetle are absent. In fact, as Ingrge, Olana, and Milo emerge into the cavern, they see that the large dead beetle has been shoved up against one wall, and the two metal spheres are missing. Catching up with them, Orgar grins, "We moved the big'un aside, and have our smiths working with the strange metal eggs as we speak. We're hoping that the metal is viable." The dwarf steps in line besides Ingrge, and begins to lead the group through the cavern.
K'Nara Friday August 24th, 2001 6:36:40 AM
K'Nara waited only for as long as it took for Dakar to destroy the desk (assisting the battlerager if he needed the help), then eagerly began the trek to return to the dwarven clan's homesite.
"It will be interesting to see what these dwarves can make of such strangely-processed metal..." the human bladesinger mused out loud.
Figment Friday August 24th, 2001 11:30:17 AM
Before leaving the mage moves the remains of the desk around to determine if there was anything else contained in it. If he sees nothing, he moves on along with the rest.
Brother Bertram Friday August 24th, 2001 12:14:35 PM
Bertram looks back once following the others, then looks ahead to rest, beer, and maybe a way out past the guards.
Olana Monday August 27th, 2001 2:46:37 PM
Olana looks back toward K'Nara. "Well, lets hope something good can be made out of it, after all this." Her heart begins to lift a little as it seems that the beetle menace has been iradicated, although she knows they aren't out of the wood, or rocks in this case, just yet.
Ingrge Monday August 27th, 2001 6:46:34 PM
Walking up to K'nara, Ingrge lowers his voice and asks, "Just what do we have planned for getting past or getting away from Mr. Scaley's stooges?" or are we just winging it?"
The Black Curtain... (DM Chris) Tuesday August 28th, 2001 2:42:20 AM
Leading the Emerald Talons through the winding caverns, Orgar seems to have developed a skip in his step as he joins in with Milo humming a tune. The caves twist and turn, and indeed for a moment, you feel as though you've lost yourselves, but the dwarf leads on relentlessly until the party comes to an abrupt halt. Turning back to face the group, Orgar's look is as somber as it ever was. The wall before you seems to ripple, and then you realize that you stand before a massive black curtain. As you pause, all has gone quiet... almost too quiet, and then in hushed tones, Orgar speaks, "They say it is a challenge all dwarven miners must face... the black curtain. That sheer darkness that can only mean the end. Watch it ripple... see it shimmer, and yet nobody passes until they're ready. I cannot face this for you, it must be you alone." He looks about the group, with a grave countenance, "For you see there is no way out of this... but through the curtain." With that, Orgar steps back to allow you room to pass.
Milo Tuesday August 28th, 2001 2:46:26 AM
Looking about the group Milo doesn't look happy at all. His face is several shades lighter than before, and he reaches up to gently stroke the sacred ruby dangling at his throat.
K'Nara (Lucia on) Tuesday August 28th, 2001 6:54:42 AM
"What IS this?" the leader of the Talons demanded, scowling. "Some kind of test? It would have been polite to at least have warned us first..!" Then K'Nara thought hard.
"Do you mean to say this is some kind of exit, Orgar?" she asked. "This could be the answer to how we can get out of here, Talons...the last time I looked, the troops from Emerald City were thick around the cave through which we originally entered the mines." Nodding Ingrge's way, K'Nara continued: "The sheer number of them would have required a most creative escape from THAT particular way out...but if THIS is a different exit--maybe we can simply 'disappear' and make fools of them all...especially their master..!"
Figment d20+4=23 d20+4=10 Tuesday August 28th, 2001 11:11:24 AM
The mage thinks back carefully to determine if they passed this way before - or if Orgar has led them another way (Int 23). "So where does it go Orgar? Have you gone through it? Is this the way we came in?".
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 28th, 2001 3:00:29 PM
Bertram eyes the curtain, certain of the honesty of Orgar. "There is no chance for the rest of ye to get through the number of troops above this shaft, but here, at least, is a chance. I will follow with you if you would have me, for I feel that Domi is calling me to stay with you.
Olana Tuesday August 28th, 2001 10:53:30 PM
"Bertram, you would be most welcome," says the elf, and gives him a cheery hug. Possibly 'too' cheery for an elf, but Olana did have an abnormally bright outlook on life (for an elf). Approaching the curtain, a rather puzzled look on her face, she asks - "Okay - should I go first? If I start screaming then you'll know it's not safe." She follows this up with a grin.
Trust? (DM Chris) Wednesday August 29th, 2001 12:28:07 AM
Looking at K'nara with the utmost levity, "It is an exit... and an entrance."
Figment determines that this is indeed a different passage then they have traversed previously, and Orgar turns toward him, "I have not gone through this black curtain, but it is not the way you originally entered."
Then looking at the entire group, "How you pass the black curtain makes little difference... individually, or together, the destination is the same... whatever it may be."
K'Nara (Lucia on) Wednesday August 29th, 2001 6:55:28 AM
"Hmmmm..." the human bladesinger rubbed her chin with her free hand as she considered the situation. "Well...I happen to know that we are severely outnumbered by the guards outside the mine...if we take this...ahhhh...portal to wherever, our chances at finding a way out of the Green One's jurisdiction are likely to be better." K'Nara turned and faced the rest of the party, her eyes twinkling.
"I am QUITE sure that the odds couldn't possibly be worse." she added. "I say let's take the chance and see what's with this portal. If we go, though, we all go together--us Talons, that is, Orgar--I won't make YOU go if it isn't your wish, but the Talons stick together, whether we choose to take this chance or not."
Figment Wednesday August 29th, 2001 12:31:19 PM
The mage frowns at the prospect of the unknown. "One idea I had for leaving the way we came in was for Ingrge and I to load up on invisibilty spells and cast one on each person who couldn't do it themselves. Then we simply leave during the night or something. I also have another problem. I will not leave my horse Jux in the city. I must retrieve him one way or another - even if we go through this portal. He is the closest thing I have had to family for almost half my life...".
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 29th, 2001 12:46:52 PM
Bertram smiles at Olana's words. And blushes a deep red at her hug. "I thank thee, Elven Lass. It is good to have a friend in these hard times." Turning to Figment, Bertram continues, "I can get your horse from the city for you Figment, if we come out anywhere near the city. Or I can even go fetch it now but obviously I cant get your steed down here. If we are thrown halfway around the world by going through this portal, I am afraid your horse is still no better off. I would hate to bring your horse here and then lose it to those guards outside because we never came out to claim it."
Milo Wednesday August 29th, 2001 1:12:22 PM
Calming down a bit, Milo seems curious about the "black curtain" itself, as he steps up to examine its surface. Seeing something, he reaches forward.... and pulls what appears to be a long frayed thread from the curtain. With a smile on his face, "Um... guys... I don't think that this is a portal in the magical sense." The halfling pulls the thread, and a pin prick of light can be seen in the curtain, as he holds the thread up for all to see.
Figment Wednesday August 29th, 2001 5:06:43 PM
"So are we going back to get Dakar and Olana's armor fixed - and recharge before going?".
Olana Wednesday August 29th, 2001 5:51:20 PM
Inquisitive as ever, especially after Milo twitches the curtain, the elf is eager to see what's behind it. But then she stops as Figment comments about armour and recharging. "Oh!" she says."Should we try to do that first?"
Ingrge Wednesday August 29th, 2001 7:02:50 PM
Eyeing the black curtain, Ingrge scowls for a moment and with a slight shake of his head listens to the rest of what Orgar and K'nara are saying. When K'nara finishes he turns to the stout dwarf, Orgar do you suppose you coud arrange a sufficiently convincing cave in in a no longer used part of the mine to aid in our emminant demise? Something that can't be easily cleared and that is fairly obvious that no one could have survived.
Nodding to Bertram, Ingrge turns and faces the black curtain. I think that in the face of the unknown, those that profess to ne studiers of such should go first. Brother Bertram, would you care to join me? Waiting just a moment for a response, Ingrge steps to the leading edge of the curtain and steps thru.
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 29th, 2001 9:56:17 PM
Bertram smiles and nods and walks forward with Ingrge through the curtain.
Flueterflam Wednesday August 29th, 2001 11:49:23 PM
The bard looks around queerly at the group. He is obviously questioning something about how everyone is acting. Fluet clears his throat and speaks out to Orgar, "Why is it a 'dwarven challenge'?"
Warm Welcomes... (DM Chris) Thursday August 30th, 2001 3:29:28 AM
Orgar appears shocked at Ingrge's initial question... "I dare say, I would never do such a thing." Then turning to Fluet, he looks like he is prepared to give yet another enigmatic response, when, much to his relief, Ingrge and Bertram part the curtain.
For a moment, there is light everywhere, and then, as the Talon's eyes adjust, they can see about a hundred dwarves standing around in small groups in a large cave. Kegs of beer are strategically positioned throughout the cavern, and strange lights play off the walls as delicately crafted lamps with various colored glass emit a rainbow of colors. Helga stands closest to the group with a huge smile on her face, and a tray laden with large tankards filled with stout dwarven ale. And then all at once they shout, "SURPRISE!!!!!" Which commences a dwarven song of victory sung boisterously throughout the cavern. The sight is welcoming to say the very least.
Orgar turns to K'nara, wiping his brow and grinning... "I thought I'd never get you guys through that curtain." And then the dwarf offers the tall warrior woman his arm. "Coming milady?"
K'Nara Thursday August 30th, 2001 7:22:45 AM
For a moment, K'Nara stood, flabbergasted at the sight before her. Then--for another moment--her sharp hazel eyes turn Orgar's way and scrutinize him from head to foot with glaring intensity. Then she busted out laughing.
"You really had us going there, you devious earthkin, you!" K'Nara said, howling with mirth. Then she straightened up, took Orgar's arm, and marched into the new cavern with her escort, gratefully accepting one of the tankards from Helga.
"Fear not, Figment," she assured the party's wizard extraordinaire, "We'll retrieve Jux and Poki and the other horses, too. All we have to do is relax, recoup...and think of a plan."
Flueterflam Thursday August 30th, 2001 1:56:46 PM
The bard stands looking at the singing dwarves stunned, wide-eyed, and jaw dropped open. After several moments of this, he begins laughing loudly.
Ingrge d6=1 Thursday August 30th, 2001 6:25:26 PM
Expecting anything but a party, Ingrge stands there with his jaw somewhere around his ankles and then a few seconds later lets out with a sound that none of the Talons have ever heard from him. It starts out as a chuckle and then boils out of him as roaring laughter.
Olana Thursday August 30th, 2001 6:34:40 PM
"Oh!" exclaims Olana as the curtain parts, her surprise turning to a big elfy grin. "Ooooh, how wonderful," she laughs, bouncing on her toes, all the cares of the world suddenly forgotten.
Figment Thursday August 30th, 2001 7:09:34 PM
The mage grins ear to ear as the group enters the cavern. "I have no doubt about our goal to retrieve the horses. Looks like we have no unknown here for now.". He glances over at his brother in the arts as he lets his hair down a bit.
Milo Friday August 31st, 2001 3:12:24 AM
Grinning broadly, Milo skips into the room, and snatches a tankard off of Helga's tray, bowing deeply to the dwarven matron. "Thank you dear, I'm absolutely parched." The halfling giggles in between gulps.
Party On... (DM Chris) Friday August 31st, 2001 3:25:28 AM
As the Emerald Talons join the dwarves in the cavern, the black curtains swing shut again, and instruments start up. Drinking, dancing, singing, and talking are available in abundance to all who seek to indulge themselves. Several dwarves begin a dance that while low to the ground, is quite acrobatic, involving spinning, tumbling, and incredible feats of physical coordination. Other dwarves begin beating on drums to keep time with the young dancers. To one side of the room is a huge kettle of succulent stew, spiced to perfection, as well as large loaves of a hearty whole grain bread, and of course ale is available in abundance. The mood is quite festive, and dwarves use the time to recount stories of comrades fallen to the evil bugs, as well as give praise to their respective gods for the lives of those who survived.
K'Nara Friday August 31st, 2001 6:30:22 AM "Lucia!" K'Nara ordered her magic sword to douse itself and returned the trusty blade to its sheathe on her back. Then she concentrated on enjoying herself for the present. Moments like this were few and far between for the Talons, and all of them deserved this break.
Besides...she needed time to think of a plan...Parnoth had numbers and the party's need to get back the wagons and horses on his side. It would take a bit of creative maneuvering to circumvent an advantage like that.
Figment Friday August 31st, 2001 11:26:53 AM
The mage enjoys the evening as much as possible. He makes sure and compliment the chefs - him being one himself and all... He decides to leave strategy and the escape plan for another day.
Brother Bertram Friday August 31st, 2001 3:31:19 PM
Bertram watches his kin and his new friends enjoy the revelty. He smiles at Olana's delight and at Milo's enjoyment of his beverage. As he sips his own he runs plans through his head on how to retrieve his friend horses and supplies, but more importantly, how to get them all out past the guards safely.
Flueterflam Friday August 31st, 2001 10:22:47 PM
The bard looses himself from the group. Instead, he falls in with groups of dwarves that are singing and asks if he may join in and also keep some songs to sing. Knowing somewhat how dwarves think, Fluet quickly adds, "Afterall, can the rest of the world trully go any longer without know of YOUR greatness??" His emphasis on 'YOUR' implies this specific group of dwarves, of course.
Ingrge Saturday September 1st, 2001 1:52:02 PM
after he gets over his surprise and bout of laughter, Ingrge looks back at Orgar, "No, You misunderstood what I was saying. I was wondering if you could arrange something like that to cover our escape, you know as a diversion that might make them and Parnoth beilieve we are dead."
Olana Sunday September 2nd, 2001 4:25:34 PM
Olana perches on a rock with a mug of ale and a bowl of stew, watching the dancing with a grin on her face. Whatever happened in the next few days, at least this would be a joyous thing to remember.
Milo Monday September 3rd, 2001 12:43:32 AM
After another mug of ale, and a quick bowl of stew, Milo joins the young dwarven dancers, spinning, jumping, and tumbling in time with the drums. Though not a performer, his tumbling expertise is apparent.
Last Dance... (DM Chris) Monday September 3rd, 2001 12:51:33 AM
Orgar smiles at Ingrge, and then with a thoughtful expression on his face, "Perhaps... that is a good idea. I mean... we have a way out for you guys... but that story, and a well timed cave in, may get them to leave us alone as well. I'll talk with Helga about it in the morning."
Several hours pass as the dancing, drinking, eating, and general festivities wear on into the night. After a while, sleepy dwarves begin wandering off to bed, and it isn't long before all are clear of the chamber except the Talons. Entering the chamber one last time, Orgar greets the group, "Okay guys... you can sleep in this cave, as it is as far from the main entrance as we can get you for now. Helga and I will be back in the morning to discuss plans of your escape, as well as taking care of any repairs that you might need in your arms and armor." Orgar eyes Dakar briefly. "Good night... and thank you all." With that, Orgar leaves the cavern, allowing the black curtain to swing shut behind him.
Ingrge Monday September 3rd, 2001 9:59:04 AM
Nodding to the dwarf Ingrge goes back to the fringes of the party and watches the young folk frolic while he sips some sort of dwarven brew. Thinking back over the last few days makes ingrge realize just how tired he is getting and when the offer of a quiet cave comes up, he takes advantage of it telling K'narra that unless some emergency comes up that he is going to sleep and not to wake him.
Brother Bertram Monday September 3rd, 2001 9:34:39 PM
Bertram sits on a small stool well into the night, His axe across his knees. Watching for any harm that might befall his new comrades As he sits he muses on his new friends and wonders what tomorrow holds. Finally he too succumbs to sleep.
Figment d20+13=26 d20+13=33 Monday September 3rd, 2001 11:06:48 PM
"I'm really hoping we can safely assume a watch is not nevessary. I would like to retire, wake, and replentish spells. Until bed time I am going to review this notebook to make sure there are no more hidden 'gotchas' we are leaving the dwarves.".
And with that the mage sits down to review what his brother in the arts hath wrought upon the dwarves and how he may use it to their - or the Talon's advantage (Int + spellcraft=26, Int+ Arcana=33). He studies until he's too tired and then sleeps.
K'Nara Tuesday September 4th, 2001 6:16:47 AM
K'Nara shrugged off her backpack and the sheath that housed Lucia.
"Now that we've gotten rid of the rogue beetles that were harrassing this clan," she said, yawning as she pulled out her bedroll and snapped it open with a flourish, "I doubt watches are necessary this time. Good night, Talons--see you in the morning!" With the ease borne of experience and exhaustion, the female fighter snuggled into her bedroll and fell promptly asleep.
Flueterflam Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:37:41 AM
As their new friends leave, the bard finds the most comfortable spot he can. He arranges his belongings so as to let him sleep comfortably. Then he waits for several minutes listening whether there will be any need for a watch. Fluet quickly falls into a quiet, still sleep.
Olana Tuesday September 4th, 2001 6:06:53 PM
Settled alongside the other, the elf sits quietly in contemplation, letting her mind lay to rest the horror they found in the mines.
Milo Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:36:19 PM
Shucking his boots and leather armor, Milo rolls out his bed and within moments is sleeping silently. Though the halfling looks to be at peace, he still sleeps facing out, with his back to the wall.
Silent Night... (DM Chris) Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:49:38 PM
It is indeed a peaceful night for the Talons as they quiet down, resting, praying, and studying... full of hope for a new day. Figment discovers, via the tome, that the wizard hated Parnoth, saying as much over and over again, while detailing his plans to create the magical bugs and unleash them upon the innocent dwarves in an effort to slow ore production. It doesn't anywhere, in the book, explain what the properties, guessed or known, are of the alloy created by the larger critters... however, two pages are found to be missing... torn from the spine.
Finally, the morning comes... well at least everyone eventually wakes, renewed and refreshed. The dwarves bring hard boiled eggs, spiced sausages, good crusty bread, and strong ale for the Talons. Also with the morning comes Orgar. "Good Morning to you all, I hope you slept well... Helga couldn't come down this morning like she planned, as she is in the process of supervising the execution of your getaway and alibi..." The dwarf grins, "We have something special in mind for those boneheads up above... but we need two days to set it up. If you don't mind resting here for a couple days, we can have some smithys look after your armor and such... and then off we go... We're also making arrangements to have your mounts meet you at our journey's end, so no worries there." Again Orgar grins smugly, seeming quite satisfied with himself.
K'Nara Wednesday September 5th, 2001 7:13:10 AM
The tall woman warrior rose before the arrival of the food, taking care of mundane personal needs first...then finding an area to begin her usual morning run-through of bladesong training.
As she exercised, K'Nara couldn't keep the grin from her face--in contacting Greymalkin through the earclip that he'd given her*, she had apparently "interrupted something important" (according to the winded and cross-sounding elf). The feminine voice complaining in the background hinted at just what K'Nara was interrupting, and the human bladesinger couldn't help but snicker as she trained under the Gold Dragon's guidance.
...spin...feint...parry...spin...block THEN thrust..! Greymalkin instructed. ...Backpedal...block...feint...feint...cast!
"Cast what?"
That'll depend on the circumstances, m'dear, replied the elf. Just remember to make the spellcasting a part of the bladesong--feinting just before you cast will throw off your opponent...they won't expect a fighter to throw a spell in the MIDDLE of an attack.
"Mmmm...sounds logical." K'Nara conceded, going through the motions of attacking and then unleashing a barrage of pretend Magic Missiles. Indeed, Greymalkin's tactic looked--and felt--rather natural.
It IS logical--and it'll be all the more effective coming from a human... the Gold Dragon said confidently, then added in a rather firm voice: ...now, YOU go on with your exercising--and *I* shall tend to...more important matters... K'Nara grinned as she heard a feminine giggle just before Greymalkin ceased communication.
Then she continued her bladesong training until the arrival of Orgar, and heard his announcement about needing the time to set up a cover for the Emerald Talons' escape.
"Two days..?" K'Nara said, frowning. "Hmmm...if only we could get in touch with the Tines--let them know to collect the horses and wagons and then to meet us in the Culverwood..."
Figment Wednesday September 5th, 2001 11:44:26 AM
The mage rememorizes spells and waits for the party to prepare to leave. He mulls over what he learned from the notebook. And tells the Talons what he has discovered.
When Orgar is finished, he asks him "Has anyone found any pieces of paper down here? This notebook is missing 2 pages. I expect they have some important information on them I would like to review. They may have information on the compaosition of the ore - and possibly the bugs.".
He begins to feel better about his prospects of seeing Jux again as the dwarves offer to get them out of the city.
Ingrge Wednesday September 5th, 2001 2:53:07 PM
Grinning with a good night's rest behind him, Ingrge greets the prospect of two days off as a very good thing. Finding Figment, Ingrge pulls him aside and says, "With this time off don't you think we should go ahead and read those toomes we found?" If not then perhaps we might copy some of these scrolls in to our spell books and perhaps see if there are things we might be able to teach each other."
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 5th, 2001 2:57:42 PM
Finding lots of free time on his hands, Bertram visits with his cousins, spending an inordinate amount of time with the smiths as they worked to unlock the properties of the strange alloy.
Olana Wednesday September 5th, 2001 4:30:44 PM
Although not absolutely overjoyed at having to spend more time in the mine, Olana swallows her claustrophobia and longing for all things green and tree-like, and spends some time with the smiths, wondering if perhaps she could trade up on some of her weapons, and have her blades sharpened properly.
Flueterflam Wednesday September 5th, 2001 6:32:40 PM
Having what seems to him as a horribly long time to do nothing, the bard practices sneaking around among the dwarves. He attempts to jump up behind them and spook them. Then, whether successful or not, engages them in conversation, finding as much knowledge from a dwarf's point of view as he can.
Milo Thursday September 6th, 2001 2:12:03 AM
Milo seems quiet yet content as he spends the majority of his day in prayer and meditation. He can also be seen reading from his prayer book on more than one occasion.
Passing Time... (DM Chris) Thursday September 6th, 2001 2:35:59 AM
Before leaving the Talons to their own devices, Orgar makes sure they have the basics... food, ale, warm clothes, ale, good bedrolls, ale... and did I mention ale? Turning to Figment, "No... we haven't seen anything that even resembles paper for some time... excepting that book you found of course."
The dwarven smiths are quite happy to assist Olana with the maintanance of her weapons, and take some time, showing and explaining to her, how she could better do so herself when she doesn't have the benefit of a dwarven smith.
It takes most of the day for Bertram to actually locate the dwarves responsible for working with the strange metal, and when he does, it is yet another challenge to get a look at what they are doing... clanging is accompanied by frequent gasps, and the muttering of sharp dwarven curses. At one point a smithy looks up at Bertram, fury on his face, "We've pounded this blade out fifteen times now, and each time we complete the long blade, it reverts to a short blade... it is as if the metal were possessed. Come on... move along sonny... we have work to finish here." The elder dwarf seems sincerely frustrated by his progress.
Though initially, Flueterflam's joke seems ill received, ultimately, each dwarf he engages in conversation, is just thrilled to get an opportunity to talk to someone who hasn't heard their stories a hundred times yet.
Overall, as the Talons spend the first day as they please, things go relatively peacefully, though strangely enough, Dakar seems to have disappeared, and his gear with him. Around supper time, Orgar shows back up with a pair of younger dwarves in tow. "Beggin' your pardon folks, but we're sendin' a group into town to fetch supplies for the mine, as well as gather up your mounts to take them to the rendevous. Is there anything that we can get you while we're in town? We don't have much extra coin, so you'll have to provide some, but if there is anything that our crew can pick up for you... things you'll be needin' before you leave that is. We won't be going back that way when we travel I'm afraid."
(Okay folks, feel free to put together your shopping lists for your next posts... use the prices out of the Player's Handbook plus 20% to figure out how much gold to send with the shopping dwarves. The economy under Parnoth is getting bad.)
Figment Thursday September 6th, 2001 12:24:01 PM
The mage smiles at Ingrge's idea and says "I think the trading of spells would be the best use of our time right now. I suspect the tomes of clear thought will take us more uninterrupted time than we currently have.". He trades spells with the mage and engages in extensive conversations about casting methods and other things arcane. He revels in the experience having not been able to do this for way too long a time.
He gives Orgar 50 gp, a list of spell components and other various supplies. "Make sure and tip the stable hands if they have taken good care of my mount.".
He also mentions a thought to the warrior woman. "I wonder if the object of our original mission is OK? Somehow I would think he's been missed by now and that the guards up top would be wanting to question us about him. We may have faked out the dragon once, but I'm inclined to think he'll fill in the missing pieces soon enough.".
Ingrge Thursday September 6th, 2001 8:11:16 PM
Finding a quiet corner with Figment, Ingrge settles down with his fellow mage to talk magic. Every now and again something sounding very close to a giggle seems to emanate from Ingrge's part of the corner. Only taking necessary breaks Ingrge stays in his corner for most of the two down days, getting up only to eat and send out for spell components.
Brother Bertram Thursday September 6th, 2001 9:19:09 PM
After talking to the dwarves working on the strange metal, Bertram puts a new edge on his axe. After checking his armor, and supplies he prays thanks to Domi for thier victory and prays for guidance in the coming days.
Olana Friday September 7th, 2001 12:47:09 AM
Olana takes careful note of how the dwarves handle her weapons, admiring their expertise and hoping to remember what is being taught here.
Afterwards, she checks her supplies. She was okay for arrows and basic supplies, although... if they were likely to have to fight their way out of this place...
She hands Orgar two and a half GPs for two more sets of arrows.
Milo Friday September 7th, 2001 2:24:46 AM
After some consideration, Milo declines Orgar's offer, and then spends the rest of his evening skipping rocks on one side of the cave.
Seclusion for a second day... (DM Chris) Friday September 7th, 2001 2:37:43 AM
The first day in seclusion passes peacefully, and still Dakar is nowhere to be found. When the Talons awake the next morning, the items they requested are waiting for them, stacked in a neat pile of parcels just inside the black curtain. Before long, Orgar appears, bright eyed and bushy-tailed... "G'mornin' folks... one more day, and we'll be ready to get going... Is there anything more we can do for you before you leave?"
K'Nara Friday September 7th, 2001 7:16:00 AM
The human bladesinger double-checked her equipment and supplies...since she didn't use her bow and arrows lately, K'Nara didn't need to replenish her supply of missiles. There was nothing else that the female fighter needed, so she didn't add to the dwarves' shopping list, but handed them another 50gp in order that they may secure the wagons and horses from the stable the Talons had been forced to leave them at.
"Hmmm...you definitely have a point, there, Figment." K'Nara concurred with the wizard. "All the better to make sure that the Emerald Talons 'die' while carrying out Parnoth's decree!" She rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "We're going to have to wait until we can get back to the rendezvous site--maybe even all the way until we return to the area of Perpaguil--before finding out whether our mission was a success...and then there are those orphans we promised to check up on, too."
Figment Friday September 7th, 2001 12:43:15 PM
The mage nods to K'Nara "I wonder if we could secure a week or two of time in one of the elven cities? I'd very much like to read this tome we secured from the mage's place. Might be neat to see if those seeds I gave the elves have been planted and what the result was (remember the golden apples? :)).". After a moment of thought, the mage says to the dwarf.
"Orgar, 2 things: Have you seen Dakar, and two, have you heard about the plague that ravages the demi-human villages in this land. We brought an anecdote for it and I was wondering if it has had any effect - or do you even know what I'm speaking of?"
The bulk of the mage's time is spent with Ingrge and the magic. He trades him any spells he would like to have and learn revelling in the thought that he has found someone who loves the arts as much as he, and is willing to fight side by side with him. (50gp given to Orgar should have covered writing material for this purpose.).
OOC: Ingrge, send me your email address at dhott@nortelnetworks.com.
Olana Friday September 7th, 2001 7:41:16 PM
As Olana overhears Figment mentioning Dakar, she asks - "You don't think he's gone up top to fight the guards on his own do you?"
Ingrge Saturday September 8th, 2001 2:37:19 PM
Overhearing Olana's comment Ingrge places his head in to his hands and slowly shakes it from side to side. "That would be just like that hard-headed dwarf, but even he isn't that stupid. Is he?"
Flueterflam Monday September 10th, 2001 1:05:42 AM
"Hmmmm..." Fluet ponders the possibilities of what the dwarf is up to. When not considering what could have happened to Dakar, the bard appears to be going over things in his. Apparently he is trying very hard to committ to memory all the dwarven stories, and also trying to fit those things into song. He appears very content, although somewhat frustrated once in awhile.
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