DM Jan (An Audience with the Dragon) Monday March 26th, 2001 11:41:25 AM
The darkness disappeared for mere moments - first, from the sparks as Dakar throws his axe down angrily, and then from K'Nara's sword which - briefly sputtered into life, only to extinguish itself again. Maybe it's magic failed, or maybe - On a basic level, maybe the sword realised exactly where it was, who knew? Even Ingrge felt some kind of strange vibe coming from his beloved staff too.
For those fractions of time when the chamber was illuminated, anyone looking around would see the basic shapes of their comrades, some stood, some sat on the ground, and two others. The chamber appeared to be a rough cube of about 30' x 30' x 30'.
Then, there was a scraping sound, and a crack of light appeared in one wall. Rolling in with it, was a heavy smell of sulpher and a dry heat. Once the door had opened wide - the view beyond was magnificent. For there was treasure - heaps of it - gold and jewels, sparkling like daylight. But for those who had been this way before - the dread began, because they knew exactly where they had landed. This was going to need... careful handling.
Mop - certainly not daft enough to stay in close proximity to a wild bunch of outlaws - slipped out of the door and toward the treasure, although he didn't exactly seem as pleased as punch to be here either.
He then stopped and beckoned.
Milo d20+14=15 Monday March 26th, 2001 12:53:11 PM
Head finally clear, Milo stands up, brushes himself off, and speaks to his companions in the darkness, clearly sounding disappointed, "So... I suppose that beyond that tremendously huge pile of treasure is a big green lizard with a huge toothy grin and a bad attitude... feh! Okay... might as well get this over with." Milo's footsteps are really faint, and the halfling can be seen framed in the light of the door. Turning, he looks back at his friends... "Coming?" And then he steps into the room beyond. (OOC: Move Silently DC 15)
Dakar Monday March 26th, 2001 1:03:05 PM
"It would have been daft of me as to announce any plan I had in plain earshot of guards. Next time, however, as per your request, I shall cry out my aims over the din of battle. From now on, in fact, if you so desire, I can announce every action I am about to make... K'nara, I desire to be swinging my axe now, do you approve?" the dwarf continues to mutter as he follows Milo into the darkness.
Figment Monday March 26th, 2001 3:31:22 PM
With a deep breath the mage walks on toward Mop. He whispers to K'Nara "I would recommend not lighting your sword again until we leave this place - if we are so lucky. The spell used was some kind of teleport and/or planeshift that I've never encountered or heard of exactly before. Interesting style. Be aware that every word spoken - and maybe even thought is being monitored by the dragon.".
In hopes of preventing any further problems, the mage softly and urgently says "We can discuss battle strategy later Dakar - if there is a later. I'm sure you will get a fair hearing on your issue. The group needs your focus right now."
He closes the distance between him and Mop so that any retribution exacted on him may also be exacted on his person as well - or reflected since he has that ring.
Ingrge Monday March 26th, 2001 10:11:03 PM
Ingrge shakes her head as K'narra asks her question. Ingrge looks at her and quietly says, "I'm suprised you don't recognize our present location. I expect we will very soon be greeted by his ....as the door opens and the smell drifts in, Ingrge sighs again and finishes his staement. ...Scaliness.
Flueterflam Tuesday March 27th, 2001 2:40:18 AM
"Bah...." Fluet mutters in disgust. The bard sits down. If they were gonna die, might as well have the big guy do all the work. He mutters rather incoherant things that make no sense and are barely audible.
K'Nara Tuesday March 27th, 2001 6:30:12 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons recognized the view only after Lucia's aborted attempts to remain alight. Ingrge was right, however, in that K'Nara should have recognized the spell right off. It was all too distinctive.
K'Nara hissed aloud in an effort to get everyone's attention--then she swiftly took out all her remaining bottles of "get out of jail free" potion and broke them...all but one, which she tucked into her belt pouch.
Now that she was ready, the tall human redhead squared her shoulders and stepped into the dragon's lair.
Olana Tuesday March 27th, 2001 11:38:40 AM
"Come now, all is not lost - not yet anyway," says the elf to Fluet, and will try to bring him to his feet and pull him along with the rest of them. "If we are going to die, then we should at least look death in the face, yes?" She gives him a grin, although due to the current circumstances, it isn't as warm as she'd like it to be.
DM Jan (An Audience with the Dragon) Tuesday March 27th, 2001 12:07:24 PM
As everyone leaves the small dark chamber, leaving behind the broken flasks, Mop starts his spiel.
"On your knees to the Mighty Parnoth! His Immenseness the Dragon! Ruler of the Emerald Kingdom!" Figment, who's stood next to him notices that Mop's knees were knocking right before the little man drops to a kneeling position.
Straight ahead, right next to the treasure pile - is Parnoth. To an objective eye, Parnoth the dragon is indeed a truly magnificent creature. He's huge - even with his wings furled. Just one taloned foot could easily crush a man. The light from the cavern plays on his skin - pearlized tints mingling with an overall brilliant green. The huge head lowers, accented with tiny horns running up the length of his snout. The enormous eyes blink once as he looks upon the party. He is an image of beauty and utter terror - and he looks somewhat displeased.
((DC 27 against your WILL to stay on your feet. On your knees if you fail.))
Then - his tail suddenly unfurls and slams into the cavern wall behind him. This causes everyone to lurch hard with the ensuing vibration and a small avalanche of coins from the treasure pile begins, causing them to slide deeper into the cavern.
"HOW - did you get into my prison?" he booms. His exhaled breath comes at everyone like a desert wind - hot, dry and distinctly uncomfortable. As the dragon speaks, the printer, who'd crawled out on his hands and knees, wails and curls up into a fetal ball.
Milo d20+2=9 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 12:34:21 PM
Milo's look turns from forced humor to complete horror as he looks up to Parnoth. Quite beyond the halfling's will, his knees buckle, and he collapses, speechless before the wyrm. Squeezing his eyes shut to force back the tears, Milo's thoughts are a blur, completely indecipherable, until in his own mind, he begins to pray, 'Sweet Alemi, in your infinite wisdom, save us from this creature who has surely risen from the depths of a really bad place to find itself standing in front me... give me strength to move, and pursue your good works...'
Figment d20+6=21 d20+6=20 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 1:28:23 PM
Even though the mage mentally braced himself for the encounter, he is absolutely not prepared for what he sees. He drops to his knees but is at least able to do so with some dignity (made DC 21 - not missed too badly). He takes some solace in the fact that Mop isn't doing any better. Seeing that the others will most likely be stunned he begins to form an answer to the inevitable question. That is until his tail slaps the wall and he booms out his demand. He drops to hands AND knees at the sound, being totally intimidated.
After a moment to gather himself (another will save DC 20) and still unable to look up and speak, the mage offers a pitiful but hopefully acceptible response before closing his mouth in fear. "We were given information by your council member - the one who liked bugs so much.... He told us how to do it.".
Dakar d20+6=24 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 5:07:49 PM
Dakar drops to his knees hesitantly. "We walked into the prison. On our feet," he responds to the dragon's query. "You don't have the brightest guards. Or the most well fed. You may also want to consider using castrati in the future."
Ingrge d20+9=27 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 7:33:22 PM
Remaining standing, Ingrge looks at Parnoth and waving a hand infront of his nose to wave away the stink simply says. Well it was actually a bit harder than my friend here says but basically true. We had your mage use his wand on us so that we could pass through the barrier. My friend is correct though when he says that you have the need of smarter help.
K'Nara d20+2=22 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 7:35:57 AM
The human bladesinger stood tall for a moment, displaying her trademark exceptional courage and free will even the presence of the green dragon, then--recalling other times when Parnoth used threats against the members of her party to force her to do his bidding--K'Nara bent one knee and remained silent as the others reacted to the draconian influence around them...noting with the barest of smiles that it was most appropriate that Ingrge did NOT follow Mop's directions. She waited to see the Green One's reaction to the party's words.
Olana d20+4=20 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 10:47:10 AM
At the site of the dragon, Olana dropped to her knees in the required manner. She'd been here before, so perhaps it wasn't as terrifying as the first time - still - was this how things were going to end? As the creature bashed its tailed against the wall in anger, she cringed, and then held her head up. Dignity. That was what was needed here. In the back of her mind, she wondered about the tribe - would they miss her? Out of the corner of her eye, she looked to see how Fluet was coping.
DM Jan (Audience with the Dragon) Wednesday March 28th, 2001 11:08:48 AM
The dragon cocked it's head, listening to words of explanation from Ingrge, Figment and Dakar. Then he fixed his eyes firmly on Mop. "Well?!" His minion spoke fast. "It was that wizard! He must have been to the jail and cast a spell on the guards to make them stupid! They've never failed you before oh mighty one! He was a terrorist! A seeker of mayhem! He probably wanted to set the entire prison free to run wild. Wasn't it I who alerted him to you in the first instance, your immenseness? A traitor he was - and rightly punished by you!"
Parnoth exhaled hot, dry breath through a pair of nostrils so big - that someone like Milo could have stood up inside them. He then swiveled his mighty head to the right. Anyone following the dragon's gaze, would see something hanging from a chain attached to the roof of the cavern - a skeleton, with blackened bones that looked as though they'd been seared in the centre of the hottest volcano. "Punished?" hissed the dragon. "Yes - he was punished." Then the great head swung again - downwards, facing those knelt there before him. "What - was your business in my jail? Were you in league with this rebel who had the arrogance to try and overthrow me?"
Milo Wednesday March 28th, 2001 12:57:20 PM
As Milo's prayers pour through his mind and being, he feels strengthened... as if he isn't alone... as if Alemi were right there... if he could just reach out and touch... and then senses whirring again, he realizes where he is, and opening his eyes for a second time, looks up at the immense creature called Parnoth. Not trusting his legs just yet, however, Milo remains on his knees, and then does something he never thought himself capable of. He speaks... in a voice loud and clear, "What rebel do you speak of great and mighty lord? As for your jail, we were testing a theory regarding its impregnability, and as you can see, your prison has failed." Looking over to Mop with pure disdain, as he would at any true coward, "Your man here is surely as foolish as those who thought themselves to be beyond the touch of those with talent, need, or means to break into such a place. I myself am skilled at forcing such entrance, with subtlety of course, and am prepared and able to give you a complete professional evaluation of your prison facility for the purpose of its improvement if you will but spare our worthless lives, and allow us to leave your lands immediately thereafter."
Dakar Wednesday March 28th, 2001 1:10:42 PM
The dwarf struggles, visibly to hold his tongue. He seems to be engaged in intense inner conflict, and slowly, moves towards the back of then group.
Figment Wednesday March 28th, 2001 2:20:41 PM
Decides to let Mop flap in the wind as he has clearly failed the dragon. Looking up the mage states "We discovered this wizard spying on us and we decided to put an end to it. In the process we found out he was able to get in and out of your prison and as my friend has stated we decided to try it. It worked. This - rebel as you call him was our enemy too. It would appear we did a better job of finding this out than your lackey here. We were not aware that you - or he - was looking at this guy as well. We should have left the city when our objective was completed and not challenged you. Even though we got in, we obviously failed to get out.".
Ingrge Wednesday March 28th, 2001 7:14:31 PM
watching Parnoth closely, Ingrge follows Parnoth's sideways look and swallows as he sees what is left of the wizard. Turning back and trying to feel more confidant and at ease than he feels, he takes a deep breath and says "what do you think we were doing in a prison? We were looking for someone. Unfortunately we did not find Folbre there.
Flueterflam d20+4=9 Thursday March 29th, 2001 2:03:57 AM
Fluet easily falls to his knees. To any watching, the bard appears to have no control of his legs. After rubbing his knees from falling so hard, as quietly as possible, he whispers to Olana, "Does he not even care that he banished us before? I think he's got alzheimers or something." With the thought, Fluet grins and tries not to laugh out loud at the dragon.
K'Nara Thursday March 29th, 2001 6:34:32 AM
'After I kill the dwarf,' the leader of the Emerald Talons thought to herself, 'I'll have to remember to kill Flueterflam, too...' Gods! That the bard uttered such a thing as reminding Parnoth about their previous meeting and its outcome was the height of folly to suicidal proportions!
Again K'Nara remained silent in an effort to gauge the dragon's reaction to her party's explanations. She didn't want to risk saying or doing anything unwise or stupid--and both Figment and Ingrge had more wisdom and intelligence than she.
Olana Thursday March 29th, 2001 10:48:08 AM
"Shhh...." whispers the the elf to Fluet. Strangely enough, his words help calm her by making the situation seem a little unreal. He was right though - they had been banished. Thing is - somehow she didn't think the dragon had forgotten that. She stays silent too, but thinks those who do speak are very brave.
DM Jan (An Audience with the Dragon) Thursday March 29th, 2001 11:22:34 AM
As the party finish their verbal explanation of events, Mop takes a deep breath. "They -"
"Enough!" roars the dragon at an ear splitting level, causing his minion to cower. The beast's tail whips around, the tip beginning to tap the floor repeatedly in an show of dragonlike impatience. The voice becomes soft and silky, and inherently more dangerous.
"That wizard..." His eyes roll momentarily toward the charred skeleton. "... had the pure audacity to try and overthrow me. He wanted rid of your precious Tines, too." His pronunciation of 'Tines' drips with contempt and dismissal. "And what do I find? These Tines - send in a group - an exiled group - exiled by ME! - to attend to the menace. Your presence was discovered as you met and murdered my soldiers. How 'clever' you must have felt to have evaded capture after such an atrocity, hmm?" The tail continued it's soft *whap *whap on the floor. "But we had a problem you see." The eyes flick to Mop and a green lip curls, revealing two perfect, white, sparkling, very large teeth. "Mop here - wasn't sure which one of my councillors was the traitor. And so we watched. We waited. And lo and behold - the Tines did the job for me. You led us straight to him! Hmmm? "Perhaps then if you had left - but no! Using the traitors secrets, you attempted to break in to my jail - no doubt to free as many of your lawbreaking cohorts as possible. "Mop! Did anyone escape the jail?"
Mop starts wringing his hands. "No, Your Immenseness - we had the jail surrounded. Some of the guards were killed, although -" He turns and looks toward the printer who's curled up in a tight ball. "Maybe they were trying to rescue this man."
"Is this true?" snorted the dragon, his eyes gazing balefully on all.
Figment Thursday March 29th, 2001 12:16:03 PM
Seeing how their original plan was not discovered the mage emphatcally - and truthfully - states "If I mat be so bold: No. We were NOT trying to attempt some type of escape of lawbreaking cohorts. In fact, we have no cohorts that I know of in that jail. Your guards were unable to get anything out of that creep they had captured. But we did. And as you say, the problem was taken care of for you. Somehow I think you will easily replace the guards you lost in the process as they were not very good. In fact, we saved a number of your guards when they attacked that wizard's house. How foolish they were to make a direct assault into his well prepared traps. I would daresay you had a net gain with our being here. Your guards would have been slaughtered - all of them. Our reason for being at the jail at all was to see if what he told us really was true. That's all. Such information could obviously be useful. And frankly, it would be foolish to try and overthrow you. First it would next to impossible, and second if someone were to succeed, then what? I'm sure the Dark Lord would really like that and I'm also sure the peoples of this land would not do so well under his direct assault. We only came here to get the wizard. That's it.".
Milo Thursday March 29th, 2001 12:33:38 PM
Milo could feel his resolve slipping, but a quick silent prayer to Alemi, and his strength returned. Remaining on his knees, Milo's right eyebrow arches in complete incredulity, "This poor sod?" He points to the printer... "We were just getting ready to escape when he began to regale us with some sob story about printing contraband or some such rubbish, I honestly have no more interest in him now than I did before... to be sure he is even further beneath your notice than we are... I think that it was pure chance that your mighty enchantment grabbed hold of this fellow, even as it were whisking us to this very spot. I couldn't hope to second guess an intellect as powerful as yours great one, but if I were in your place, I'd simply fine the man and take away his business license. Its not like he is any real threat to one as mighty as you." Milo's voice practically drips with sincerity as he speaks to the dragon, and finishing his last sentence, Milo takes a brief moment to cast his gaze about the huge pile of treasure arrayed before him... attempting to note preferences in the Parnoth's tastes, should it become necessary to attempt to buy the freedom of his friends and himself.
Flueterflam Thursday March 29th, 2001 11:18:52 PM
The bard almost bursts out laughing after hearing Milo speak. However, he controls it down to a smirk. Then, acting as if interested very little in his own life, he looks around taking in the surroundings that he hasn't already noticed. Fluet appears impatient, as if expecting an outcome that will not come soon enough.
K'Nara d20+2=20 Friday March 30th, 2001 6:58:44 AM
"...and Folbre, Ingrge..." K'Nara finally spoke, standing up, "...we were looking for him, too...but he wasn't at the jail." For a moment, she wondered what Parnoth's reaction would be to see that she still lived in spite of his treacherous attempt to get his allies to murder her, but K'Nara brushed that concern aside, hoping that her addendum would persuade the Green Meanie to leave the poor printer alone. (OOC: made a voluntary Bluff check.)
Olana Friday March 30th, 2001 11:53:40 AM
Olana is awed by the explanations of Figment and Milo in particular as they verbally spar with the dragon. She knew darned well that if she said anything, then she'd give the game away for sure. So instead she concentrates on trying to stop Fluet from giggling by giving him a nudge every now and then. Humans - they could laugh at all kinds of things. She kept an eye on the battle-rager too, knowing it must be a hard thing to stop himself from running forward and trying to cut the dragons toenails with his axe.
DM Jan (An Audience with the Dragon) Friday March 30th, 2001 12:19:48 PM
For a moment, the dragon is silent, choosing to look at them all, perhaps weighing up their story, along with a few other things. Then -
"Mop. If there's a 'Folbre' in the jail - have him incinerated. Immediately. And throw out this 'printer'! My cavern is too untidy as it is." Then he rounds on the party. "I don't have time for this. You mention the Dark Lord? If only you knew..." For a moment, the giant beast's eyes roll away - perhaps distracted by something, before returning, and narrowing to slits. "I have a task for you - you will not refuse it, or there will be hell to pay. "That 'wizard' saw fit to halt production of weaponry at one of our best mines. An infestation of some kind. You will rectify what he did, and return the mine to full production at all speed." And after another blast of hot, dry breath - "You and your petty little battles. Do you think this is a game? You have no idea what is on the horizon. No idea. Now get on with it. "Mop!?"
With that - the huge beast turned, giving everyone a sight of his flank , wings, and massive tail. Anyone looking at Mop would see the man almost deflate with sheer relief. For a moment, he appears to be whispering prayers of his own before recovering his composure. "This audience with the Mighty, the Merciful, the Almighty Parnoth is at an end!" he announces, with considerably less wind than before, then heads for the exit, beckoning the others. As for the now 'babbling incoherently' printer, Mop grabs him by the scruff of the neck and drags him along. In a low voice he says - "Thank the gods he has a lot on his mind." Around the corner - the guards are waiting.
Milo Friday March 30th, 2001 12:31:01 PM
As Parnoth's gaze turns away from Milo, he can feel the strength returning to his legs. Not wanting to press his luck, and without further ado, Milo hops up, and moves quickly to the exit. As they pass through the door, he looks Mop's direction, "You wouldn't happen to have directions to this mine that he spoke of would you? It would make this task that much easier." Milo looks up at Mop expectantly, still moving away from the door, and stifling the look of triumph that threatens to appear on his diminutive face at any moment.
Figment Friday March 30th, 2001 1:00:16 PM
The mage stands up and hurredly extis. He shushes Milo and makes sure he gets out the door before any more words are spoken. Once they round the corner and are clear of the dragon he turns to Mop immediately (hoping to catch him before he regains his composure and "cocky" demeanor) and says "It would appear we have our marching orders. We will leave for this mine immediately. As my diminutive friend has stated we need directions. We will also need supplies and as much as information as you can tell us about the problem. No need for any of us to test your master further today. We all got off very light and should count our blessings.".
Dakar Friday March 30th, 2001 1:22:59 PM
The dwarf comes out of the room, cursing in dwarvish to himself. "Blast... By the Oath. I hate mines..." he stutters out in common, breaking it up with passages of dwarvish. Turning to Mop he says, "At least tell me that they're human miners and not any of my kin."
Ingrge Friday March 30th, 2001 4:50:35 PM
At Parnoth's order to Mop regarding Folbre is announced, Ingrge blanches and then steps forward and faces Mop almost nose to nose and speaks in a voice so cold and devoid of color that Madame Colosum's dead dancers were warmer.
"If you so much as touch even a hair on Folbre's head, if he is in that prison of yours, you will pray for the death that Parnoth would give you for not carrying out his order. If ANY harm comes to my Foster Father, I swear on the graves of my parents and by all the Gods of the Wold, that I will not rest until every piece of you has been wracked with pain equal to that of Parnoth's acid tongue and then I will bring you back to life to do it all over again. And when I am finished with you I personally will give you to Parnoth to play with."
None of you have ever seen Ingrge this deadly serious about anything before.
K'Nara Monday April 2nd, 2001 6:03:45 AM
The tall human female placed a restraining hand on Ingrge's shoulder.
"He wasn't there, so it's all right, my friend." she told him, unable to admit that the Talons had been misrepresenting themselves--at least not in front of Parnoth's primary "yes-man," Mop. "Come...let us allow Mop to finish up his task so that we may be on our way." K'Nara followed the Green One's lackey to wherever it was that he was supposed to take them to tell them of the particulars of this "conciliatory assignment".
Olana Monday April 2nd, 2001 11:29:39 AM
Looking rather astonished, Olana walked out with the others. She couldn't believe they'd got let off so lightly. Or had they? Maybe 'dwarven mines' was a code word for assassination or something. She was going to keep her wits about her that was for sure. In this frame of mind, she certainly had no qualms about letting ingrge rough up the dragons henchman and looked on - watching for Mop's reactions.
DM Jan (The Mine) Monday April 2nd, 2001 11:46:14 AM
The beleaguered Mop, listens to the party's questions for a moment, then looks somewhat aghast at Ingrge's threat. Olana however, and maybe some of the others, notice his eyes narrow a little, which suggest he doesn't feel as threatened as he should be. Drawing himself up, he announces - "You will be escorted to the mines up on the hills, not far from Parnoth's cavern. There, you are to iradicate an 'infestation' that has occurred. You will be given more information by the people - the dwarves -" he emphasises, looking in Dakar's direction. " - that live and work there."
Just then - 2 big doors open - revealing rather a lot of guards, and a covered wagon - already hitched to six horses. Next to it, is a small buggy drawn by two horses. "Not him," utters Mop impatiently as everyone is herded toward the larger wagon. "His fate lies elsewhere." Some of the guards 'escort' Shadrach to the small buggy and bundle him aboard. Everyone else is unceremoniously herded into the large covered wagon, that sets off immediately.
The journey is bumpy, and as an early morning chill air drifts into the wagon - everyone realises they've been up now for quite a while, some are still wounded - and can feel every lurch in the road.
Dakar Monday April 2nd, 2001 1:04:02 PM
The dwarf's face goes grey when Mop mentions that he will be encountering his brethren. He begins trembling a bit as he moves towards the carriage, throwing off any hands that attempt to prod him along and telling his handlers, in no uncertain times, exactly what they can do with their wagon. After mumbling, "Sod off" to the last handler, he grudgingly boards the wagon. "So do we have any wounded among us?" he asks, his own wounds all too apparent.
Flueterflam Monday April 2nd, 2001 4:17:58 PM
"Hey! Where ya taking Shad???" Fluet yells. "What's up with THAT?" Fluet appears very angry that one of their members is being split from them. (ooc: We'll miss ya Shad!)
Figment Monday April 2nd, 2001 6:17:34 PM
Knowing he can do nothing for Shad but get himself killed the mage looks hard at the guards who are splitting up the party but chooses not to interfere.
He winces at the jarring but decides preserve his potions. As they ride towards the mines he speaks softly to K'Nara so the guards cannot hear. "We need to get some time to prepare for this effort. If we do it right we might be able to figure out a way to escape once we complete this errand. I do not think we should find ourselves back in the dragons lair if we can avoid it. If we complete the task he may be inclined to not try and capture us. Looked to me like he had other things on his mind.".
Ingrge Monday April 2nd, 2001 7:01:09 PM
Starting at K'narra's touch, Ingrge shrugs her off and keeps Mop's eye as long as possible as the group moves out, Ingrge sullenly gets into the wagon with the others, his mind is so preoccupied that he doesn't really even realize that Shad isn't with them until Dakar ask's about injuries and he looks around for the Bonze, knowing he had been hit quite heavily. Not seeing him, he looks around and quietly asks where he is and then says I have some minor injuries that can wait or I can drink one of my last potions.
Milo Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 5:02:43 AM
Still riding his high from actually fast talkin' Parnoth, Milo doesn't realize that Shadrach is gone until it is too late. A frown creases his brow, and he looks concerned as the Bonze steps into the carriage. Hopping up into the wagon, he seats himself into a front corner, and after situating his satchel into his lap to keep its contents safe from road hazard, Milo folds his hands, closes his eyes, and begins to pray to Alemi silently. 'Great Alemi, thank you for granting us your mercy, and thank you for all of your aid, direct, indirect, or otherwise, in our previous mission, and all future missions to come... And Alemi... take care of Shadrach please... I know he can be dour, but you just have to get to know him.' Milo continues to pray for some time.
K'Nara d20+2=22 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 7:23:58 AM
As the guards "escorted" the bonze to the buggy, K'Nara's instinct was to prevent Shadrach's parting--but the six drawn longswords pointed in her direction rendered the redhead helpless.
"Shad..!" she said in a strangled voice, unable to say anything more as the rest of the group was loaded into the covered wagon. The leader of the Emerald Talons was the last to be shoved aboard the vehicle. She caught Mop's eye.
"Remember, lackey--Talons are very sharp!" she hissed at him with all the Intimidation she could muster. (OOC: woohoo! rolled a natural 20!) The wagon was off and trundling down the road, though, before the female fighter could see if her own veiled threat had any effect on Parnoth's right hand man. K'Nara sank to her seat on the wagon floor in a dejected heap.
Figment's statement, however, was more than effective enough to snap the woman warrior out of her depression.
"Yeah, I'm sure he had a LOT on his mind--if he was thinking about the Dark Lord." K'Nara replied, nodding. "Ye olde Green Meanie skipped over the fact that he SENT me there, to the Dark Lord's kingdom--I've seen for myself how the people are there...and he's right to be preoccupied about it." She shook her cauled head. "I didn't like what I saw--people worse off there than the elves of the Emerald Kingdom...and just about all of 'em convinced that their Dark Lord was a god." K'Nara sighed, then shook off her reminscent mood with a sharp roll of her shoulders.
"You're right, though, Figment...if we're going to do this 'job' right, then we must rest and recuperate from our previous combat." Here the human bladesinger grimaced a bit and addressed Dakar. "Figment and myself, if I recall, still bear the wounds of battle, Dakar..and Shad--oh. Well...Figment and myself, for sure..."
Olana Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 11:04:44 AM
Shocked at the party being split up, Olana looks on horrified. "Where are they taking Shad? What are they going to do to him? He didn't do anything wrong - well, no more than the rest of us." Once bundled into the wagon, and not too badly injured, she helps bind everyone's wounds before the healing starts. "K'Nara?" she asks. "Do you think they'll send him to the same place you were sent to?"
DM Jan (The Mine) Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 11:31:24 AM
The journey is a sombre one, not least because of Shad being hauled away - although there is some satisfaction at seeing the relief on the faces of Mop and the guards as the Talons get into the wagons 'relatively' peacefully. "Wouldn't like to be caught in a dark alley with that lot!" one is heard to mutter.
After two hours, the wagon stops, and everyone is herded outside. Although the sun is climbing in the sky, it's still fairly cold as the wagon has stopped in the shadow of a mountain.
Off the main stoney path, is a wide track that leads up to a cavern mouth. For the moment, apart from the numerous guards (who really don't want to be here by the looks on their faces) and the party - the place looks deserted.
"It's in there," says the wagon driver, pointing to the cavern. "And I'm to tell you that we'll be here outside waiting, if you try and escape. The dwarves know you're coming." It looks as though the mighty Mop has chosen to stay back at the dragons domain, which can be seen on a distant hillside.
Figment Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 1:09:09 PM
The mage nods to K'Nara when she notes his wounds. "I'm hurt pretty bad. I have 2 more potions but I am hoping I can get healing from another source and preserve the two I have for the upcoming mission.".
Seeing that the guards are all too eager to be rid of them, and that they are none too interested in entering the cavern, the mage says to the driver "Tell your captain to keep his men back. We may have to drive this infestation out of the cave and if we do, it may come after you if you're near. We have no idea what it might be - and what it might do to you...". He let's his voice trail off to increase the uncertainty and to leave VERY uncomfortable thoughts with this guy.
He walks with the others toward the cave, wondering what they will see. As Dakar prepares to deal with his own demons, he says "Don't worry, my friend, perhaps this situation will allow you a chance to regain some standing. Maybe we can help them be free.".
Dakar 2d8(6+2)+4=12 2d8(2+5)+4=11 d8+4=10 d8+4=9 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 5:51:26 PM
Mumbling a host of prayers to Domi on the carriage ride, Dakar heals each party member in turn, first K'nara, then Figment, then he seals his own wounds... looking over the group once more he asks "Is that all of the scars that we bear?"
Milo Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 7:46:28 PM
As Dakar begins his prayers, Milo's eyes open, and he watches the dwarf with extreme interest as he goes from friend to friend healing, and then finally lays hands upon himself. His eyes open wide in wonder, "I should only hope that Alemi would favor me with such abilities one day... Um.. Dakar... I know I'm not much of a warrior, but I have been wounded... I just didn't want to say anything as everyone else seemed to be in much greater need... But if I'm all that is left, I will be very grateful to accept the healing touch of Domi."
K'Nara d20+2=18 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 7:21:02 AM
K'Nara smiled sweetly at the guard who consistently spoke about his particular uneasiness at being responsible for keeping the Emerald Talons in line, using reverse psychology on the man in a conscious effort to make him even MORE uneasy. (OOC: that's a voluntary Intimidation check up there...heh heh.)
"Thank you, Dakar." K'Nara told the warrior-priest, feeling herself almost completely healed by the divine magic the dwarf used on her. (OOC: 12hp healed out of a total of 18hp damage taken.) "Let's go get the lowdown on the situation from the people who have to work here, and then see if we can't rest and recuperate." With this, the leader of the party got out of the wagon and, disdaining the reluctant guards, went to the mine entrance, waiting until what was left of her group was gathered together before going inside to find out what was what.
Olana d20+12=19 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:01:16 AM
The elf gives Dakar a warm smile. "Thank you, but I'm okay. I was pretty lucky," she says. "I avoided most of the combat while I was getting Tremaine out of his cell. It's the rest of you who took a pasting." Jumping out of the wagon, she has a quick scout around the entrance of the cavern area while she had the chance, still unsure as to whether this was a trap or not. ((Wilderness Lore DC19))
DM Jan (The Mine) Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:13:36 AM
Between Figment's tales of "infestations" hurtling out of the cavern entrance, and K'Nara's continued intimidation, the guards are glad to see them go - some of them muttering to themselves and giving the party shifty glances as they start to make camp.
Olana finds nothing to suggest trouble is afoot near the cavern. There are no tracks, for the ground is too stony, but occasionally she finds scuffs on the stone as though something metal has been run over it.
As the party enters, the light darkens and it becomes difficult to see for those without low light vision. It's a little chilly but dry, and any voices will echo. All sounds bounce off the walls. Any further in, and it will be as black as coal as the light continues to diminish.
Figment Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:16:49 AM
Relying on his Tine bandana, the mage smiles but urgently whispers to Olana at his earliest convenience. "Please remember, they don't know he got out - and they don't know we helped him. It would be best not to mention his name because if they find him missing, they may come back after us before we have time to escape. The dragon may very well have heard you - and now me.".
Figment, cont. Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:43:22 AM
Relieved that the guard apparently did not catch the signifcance of Olana's words, he moves with the others into the cavern. "I'd say your sword will be most useful for the forseeable future.". Again fearing eavesdroppers, the mage moves close to K'Nara once more and softly mentions "I can memorize 3 invisibility spells and I know Ingrge can memorize at least 2. And Milo has his own means. If we are given time to rest we should be able to provide cover for a hasty escape. Maybe we can get some of our friends in the city to retrieve our stuff. I cannot leave my horse there. He's my companion. We should also try to help these dwarves in some way if we can. Those are just my thoughts...". Trying not to tell the warrior woman how to do her job he promptly shuts up and leaves the decision-making to her.
Ingrge Wednesday April 4th, 2001 9:36:27 PM
Looking around for who ever is in charge, Ingrge speaks to Figment and K'narra and whom ever else is around. I don't know about the rest of you, but I would like to have a nights rest and some time to prepare, before heading in to whatever danger has a group of dwarven miners quaking in their booties. in fact I would like a chance to do some reading and further perusing of the scrolls we found.
Dakar 2d8(3+3)+6=12 Thursday April 5th, 2001 12:46:07 AM
Dakar turns to Milo and offers up a final cure moderate wounds. "That is the limit of the aid I can give you. I am sorry if it is not enough... I may be able to heal any minor scratches but... dear Domi, I have been up for too long."
Milo d20+10=19 Thursday April 5th, 2001 3:47:59 AM
Milo looks at Dakar with shock as his wounds close completely leaving no trace of their passing. He was especially worried about the wound he took from the guard's arrow, but it sealed up tight and fast. For once in a long time, Milo straightens up to his full height, which, at four feet tall is rather impressive for a halfling. Staring his dwarven friend in the eye, "Your healing touch is more than sufficient I'd say... Domi must cherish you a great deal." Milo smiles in appreciation, and then testing his fully healed body, hand springs into a cartwheel, which rolls out into a somersault. Standing again, he grins from ear to ear, and slaps Dakar on his armored shoulder in friendship. "Lets join the others." With that, Milo skips up to where Ingrge and K'nara are standing, and stands silently, a smile on his face. (OOC: Made Tumble check DC 19)
K'Nara Thursday April 5th, 2001 6:49:41 AM
K'Nara looked around the immediate area before answering either Figment or Ingrge.
"I had thought that this was an operating mine, but perhaps Parnoth's traitor has done his work too well and made the dwarves here abandon it." she said with a shrug. "Since there isn't anyone right here to apprise us of what they know, then, yes...we will camp for the night to rest and recover magic and such. It is only wise that we do that before attempting to confront whatever that wizard may have let loose below." K'Nara rolled her shoulders.
"Your magic cured most of my wounds, battlerager," she told Dakar, "But there is still some damage left if you've the magic to spare." Her hazel eyes flickered over Parnoth's excuse for guards.
"Let's make camp, people," she ordered, "First watch will be Ingrge and Shad--" K'Nara halted, once more reminded that the bonze had been taken from them. For the merest moment, the human bladesinger looked as though she was on the verge of tears, but then her face became as stone.
"First watch is Ingrge and Figment," she intoned brusquely, "Second watch is Milo and Fluet; third watch is Olana and myself; the last watch...do you think you can handle the last watch yourself, Dakar? I put you last that you may have uninterrupted sleep--so you could recover spells easier." After hearing the dwarf's answer, K'Nara nodded silently, then went about aiding in setting up their camp for the night.
Olana Thursday April 5th, 2001 10:40:22 AM
As an a side to Figment, the elf's eyes rounded as he spoke quietly. "Ooops," she said, cringing at the very idea of Parnoth getting hold of that information. It was typical really - she never hand been good at keeping things quiet. Somehow her natural exuberance had always come bubbling to the surface. Even though technically it was still day time, she started to set up camp gladly. She was exhausted.
DM Jan (The Mine) Thursday April 5th, 2001 11:08:46 AM
As everyone - suffering from the adventurers equivalent of jetlag, set up camp just inside the entrance of the cavern - sounds drift toward them out of the deep, gloomy interior. It's like a dragging sound, and then a voice, the language dwarven, which translates into something like this - "Come on - put yer back into it, lad!" followed by a groan.
To make matters even more interesting, some may notice some shadowplay on the walls as though something approaches the cavern entrance from the outside. Whatever it is, can't be seen as they approach from one side of the entrance wall. ((DC15 against INT to notice)) The guards are about 50 yards away, busy setting up a camp of their own. The sun continues to rise, and skylarks begin their twittering, hovering in the sky above. It looks as though it will be a lovely day - outside at least.
Figment d20+4=23 Thursday April 5th, 2001 2:54:08 PM
"Sounds like a good idea on the watches, K'Nara. Ingrge and I can memorize our spells after we sleep-". The mage stops abruptly and looks up to notice whatever creatures are approching the party (DC 23). "Now what...".
Bertram-Intro Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:25:08 PM
Bertram scratched idly at his beard as he walked by. He listened to the plans of treachery and his eyes grew cold. Casually stopping on the pretense of pulling at his boot he heard them mention the names of Parnoth, which he was familiar with. Obsidian however? Not wanting to arouse suspicion, Bertram approached the opening to the mine. Up ahead he could hear murmured speech but couldn't make out anything tangible. He hesitated for just a moment and then firmed his step and started towards the entrance. He tried to walk normally so as to not startle anyone standing guard. The last thing he needed was his tombstone to record the fact he was shot like a common thief. Bertram chuckled privately and started towards the voices up ahead...
Ingrge d20+3=13 Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:41:14 PM
Turning as K'narra announces watch schedules, Ingrge turns to Figment and says, I'll take the outside opening if you want to keep an eye on the dark side? As tired as he is he hears or notices nothing while waiting for an answer.
Flueterflam d20+2=8 Thursday April 5th, 2001 9:11:41 PM
Flueterflam looks around confusedly. He appears to have lost some sense. Anyone looking at the bard might think that he trying to get a firm grasp back to reality. He also starts to fall asleep. Every so often he nods off, then jumps and wakes himself back up.
Milo Friday April 6th, 2001 3:18:19 AM
Milo nods to K'nara when he receives his watch assignment, and taking in a deep breath of fresh air, he wanders over to the side of the cave wall. Wrapping himself in his cloak, Milo sits with his back to the wall and allows himself to doze off, knowing that his friends are watching.
K'Nara d20-1=18 d20-1=16 Friday April 6th, 2001 7:08:30 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons looked, for a moment, extraordinarily weary. Then came the sound of approaching...
"Ummm...is that Dwarven?" K'Nara asked, tilting her head to one side (OOC: Listen check is 18). "I don't know Dwarven...Dakar..?" She glanced inquiringly at the warrior-priest, but didn't add to her obvious question as her hazel eyes lighted upon another dwarf (OOC: Spot check is 16), carefully approaching the Talons' campsite.
"We have company, Talons." K'Nara said in a neutral voice, yet made no effort to draw her weapon.
(OOC: K'Nara is a six-foot-tall human female with auburn hair in a black net caul, fair skin--with a few freckles, and an athletic build. She's dressed in studded leather armor and wears on her back two swords--a large bastard sword and a scimitar--with their handles at slight angles to each other...the better to differentiate which sword is which, most likely. She projects a slight weariness, yet is obviously confident enough in herself to not immediately draw on the approaching dwarf.)
Olana d20+2=22 Friday April 6th, 2001 11:01:41 AM
"Fluet, are you alright?" asks Olana with a worried expression. Then came the sounds from in front and behind. Looking at K'Nara, who seemed to have noticed too but didn't seem to alarmed, she kept her hands away from her weapons and looked to see who was approaching. As for what was going on deeper in the cave, she reckoned they'd all get to know about it sooner rather than later.
DM Jan (The Mine) Friday April 6th, 2001 11:15:10 AM
Those looking out, notice a dwarf approaching the entrance in a non-threatening manner.
To the dwarf Bertram - he sees what looks like a group of exhausted, hard fought mercenaries of different races. Certainly a force to be reckoned with. They have that aura about them, that suggests travel, danger and adventure.
Meanwhile - back in the depths of the cave, the pulling and shoving sounds continue, accompanied by many dwarven expletives. And then there's the smell. It's thick, heavy and downright bloomin' awful. Then - out of the gloom emerge two male dwarves, axes strapped to their backs, pulling a - "dead something." They look very surprised to see everyone at the entrance.
Dakar Friday April 6th, 2001 3:09:32 PM
Dakar looks to Bertram and then looks away. He turns to K'nara. "Yes. They're dragging something." He then gestures to the warriors dragging something out of the cave. "I'd assume that that is the something." He rises and walks to his brethren, a bit wary of them it seems. In Dwarvish he greets them, hesitantly. "I am Dakar, called the oathbreaker, the bringer of pain, and also the oathkeeper. My blade has tasted the blood of a hundred foes. I am a slayer of evil and one that has the beast of war within. I pledge my axe to your cause, if you will take me. You know the stain I carry for it is sung by the skalds." He then looks to inspect the carcass.
Brother Bertram Friday April 6th, 2001 10:07:41 PM
Bertram lets his gaze travel across the faces of each of the members of the group, his eyes widening for a moment as he notices the crossed swords of Domi hanging from Dakar's neck. Before he can speak, Dakar walks towards the other dwarves and the moment is lost. Bertram takes note of what Dakar says before he looks to the others. "Well met Strangers. I am Brother Bertram Trothgard at your service."
Flueterflam Friday April 6th, 2001 10:31:13 PM
"Huh!?....oh." The bard is apparently startled by the elf. "Sorry, I'm really tired. All this travelling has left me rather disoriented." He sits down next to Milo. "Whew. Didn't see this coming. Wake me if I'm needed." Fluet is asleep within the minute.
Milo Saturday April 7th, 2001 2:03:42 AM
"ZZZZzzzzzz..... ZZZZzzzzz....." In sleep Milo appears to be nothing more that a human child, all care and worry fade from the halfling's face as he sleeps peacefully through the encounter.
Ingrge Sunday April 8th, 2001 2:13:43 PM
Made aware of the approaching noises, Ingrge levels his staff at the single approaching dwarf. Seeing no weapon at hand, he relaxes only a bit as he looks this new dwarf over. As the dwarf speaks, Ingrge listens and then responds. Well Brother Bertram , if that is indeed your name, I would stop where you are for a moment, unless you want to become Brother Crispy. I would say that you are a mighty suspicious acting character, to come up to a camp of strangers, especially in this land, and pledge them your service. Unless of course you are a spy sent by the green, scaly, wonder or the Dark Lord himself.
(ooc. Ingrge is wearing mostly grey and black down to and including his leather armor. He has a bow at his back a sword on his hip and a staff in his hand, which happens to be pointing right at Bertram's ample waist.)
K'Nara d20-2=18 Monday April 9th, 2001 6:20:47 AM
K'Nara threw a bemused glance Ingrge's way then looked Brother Bertram over (OOC: made a Sense Motive check), nodding to herself as she judged the newcomer to be at least minimally trustworthy.
"We have been sent here to deal with some sort of...infestation..?" K'Nara said to Bertram. "Do you know what that might be? We were given very sketchy details."
Olana Monday April 9th, 2001 10:40:38 AM
Olana gives Bertram a quick smile, and then walks back to check out the source of the smell, reckoning if there is a problem with the dwarf at the entrance then K'Nara and Ingrge were more than equipped to deal with it. She passes by the sleepy human and halfling and goes toward Dakar and the other dwarves, attempting to examine whatever it is - if the dwarves will let her.
DM Jan (The Mine) Monday April 9th, 2001 11:06:35 AM
At Dakar's declaration, the two dwarves look aghast. "Oathbreaker??" exclaims one of them. The elder one gives him a nudge. "That's dwarf business," he says, eyeing the rest of the party elsewhere in the cave, before giving Dakar a strange look. "Later." He then drops whatever they were both dragging along and approaches the entrance. Squinting in the light, his eyes take in everyone, and the guards outside. "I am Orgar of Ungart," he announces. "If you be the ones come to rid us of our menace, then there be shelter and food inside. If not - then I would ask you yer business." To Bertram, he asks "Trothguard? And to what do we owe a visit from our cousins? Step inside brother."
Both Dakar and Olana can see that the thing being dragged is indeed very dead, and carries quite a few axe marks. Olana's closer examination reveals what looks like a large insect - like a giant version of those "green beetles" although this one possesses no wings. It smells. It smells so bad, that anyone who was hungry before, certainly isn't now. "Can someone gimme a hand with this?" yells the younger dwarf. "Gotta put it outside before we all pass out."
Figment Monday April 9th, 2001 11:11:37 AM
The mage nods to Ingrge and moves to the opposite side of the camp. He stands suspiciously in silence, waiting to see whatever may come of these simulataneous and yet seemingly unrelated encounters.
The pleasant looking human mage is around 30 years old, well groomed and is wearing very finely tailored clothing which for some odd reason doesn't appear out of place because it is clearly as functional as it is beautiful. He stands almost 6' tall - maybe an inch shorter than the warrior woman - and looks healthy and athletically built, but not terribly muscular. Even though his demeanor is pleasant you can tell he is weary and one who knows battle.
Brother Bertram Monday April 9th, 2001 3:49:28 PM
The dwarf looks at the arrogant Elf for a moment and then suddenly starts chuckling. "Well said, Elf. It is indeed a strange and auspicous event to see a dwarf approaching the entrance to a Dwarven mine. I have never heard the like in all my day." Bertram snorts and looks at the group. "Now if you are through posturing I came to offer my services to my cousins here and to anyone that has agreed to help them. I had thought you were that group. But if you don't wish my help Elf, then Domi's will be done in this matter and I will seek another way to help them." Bertram turns to the other waiting dwarves. "I greet you, Orgar of Ungart. It is good to see my cousins. I have heard of your plight and was moved by Domi to offer any assistance that I may." Bertram wrinkles his nose at the rancid smell. "It appears we are to get an up close look at the nature of the problem."
Milo Monday April 9th, 2001 4:43:42 PM
As the dwarves tote the smelly giant bug to the mouth of the cave, Milo's eyes pop open, and a look of sheer disgust plants itself squarely on his face. Reaching up and grabbing his own nose, "Eeeewwwww, whad is dat horrible smell." Seeing the dwarves with the giant bug, Milo stands up and walks over to investigate. Looking at the three dwarves congregating there he releases his nose, "Looks and smells like some kinda stinkbug or somethin'... blech." Sticking his hand out for any one of the three dwarves to take, Milo greets them, "Milo Thistledown... entrepreneur... I'm not the leader here, but I believe I speak truly when I say we are here to help with your problem. Food and shelter sound great to me." Milo grins.
Milo is most definitely a halfling, though he is probably the tallest halfling you've ever seen, standing at a level four feet. His light brown hair is neat and short, and his eyes are a deep blue. He is garbed all in leather, and a bejeweled short sword rests at his hip. Slung across his back is a quiver full of arrows and a short bow. A rather large satchel is slung over one shoulder, and what looks like a ruby, the holy symbol of Alemi, dangles at his chest by a leather thong.
Flueterflam Monday April 9th, 2001 9:44:50 PM
The bard's nose twitches when the smell gets to him. However, he is so tired that it cannot wake him. Anyone person trying to wake Fluet will have great difficulty.
K'Nara d20+1=12 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 6:29:54 AM
"We may be here at Parnoth's command," K'Nara said, her lightly-freckled nose wrinkling not only at the smell but at the distaste uttering the dragon's name causes her, "But we help those in need willingly. Come on, Talons--let's help get this...thing out of here..!" With this, K'Nara goes over to the carcass and puts her entire effort into helping to push the thing out of the cave. (OOC: rolled a Strength check, though I'm not sure how helpful it will be.)
Dakar d20+4=23 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 11:38:21 AM
Looking over Bertram, Dakar smiles. "It is good to see a Brother, brother." he states, simply, before reaching down to the carcass at his feet. Grunting, he attempts to shoulder the entire load and begins moving towards the woods with it. (Str check, 23)
Olana d20+3=13 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 12:01:28 PM
Nose wrinkling with distaste, the elf attempts to help shove the nasty thing out of the cavern. Despite the smell, she can't help laughing at Milo's reaction. "It IS bad, isnt it," she chuckles. "Is that what we're here for - to chase out big smelly bugs?" Her next task will be to wake the dozing bard.
Olana has the narrow, slight build of an elf, with warm, blue eyes and fair hair in a single braid - with a face that suggests that smiles come easily to her. She looks slightly older than Ingrge, the other elf in the team. Her clothes are plain, dull and blend well in forest environments. Her sword, bow and knives are plain too, but their glint suggests they are well cared for and used regularly.
DM Jan (The Mine) Tuesday April 10th, 2001 12:48:29 PM
Despite Ingrge's and Figments suspicions, there is nothing to suggest that trouble is on the immediate horizon, apart from -
"Hmph -" says the younger dwarf as they all struggle out of the cavern with it. "This one's just a baby. Might look stupid, but it spits poison. Nasty stuff."
As Dakar drags and K'Nara, Olana, Orgar and the younger one push and shove - the creature is dragged outside. "Here's your dinner!" yells Orgar to the distant soldiers still setting up camp. With a guffaw, he rubs his hands together and starts back inside. "By the Gods we need some ale after this. Follow me. I'll take you to meet Helga." He shakes Milo's hand, and then looks around at everyone. "I have to warn you," he said, his voice a deep boom. "This is going to be no picnic."
He sets off into the gloom. Ahead there is light in the form of barely shining lanterns - but not much.
Figment Tuesday April 10th, 2001 12:59:56 PM
Before the mage enters the hole any further, he takes the time to look around the cavern entrance, the walls, ceiling, and floor for any magical signs that the now deceased mage might have left. After his search he follows the others into the gloom, looking forward to some food and rest before attacking the bugs. "Ingrge, we need to examine the possibility that these things are being held here by some magical means. Perhaps a glyph or something. Keep your eyes open.".
Milo Tuesday April 10th, 2001 1:02:18 PM
"Picnic?... thats okay, I don't think my stomach could handle it just now." Milo's face has a decidedly unpleasant look upon it... "I hate bugs." Stepping in line behind the dwarves, he follows them down into the mine.
Dakar Tuesday April 10th, 2001 5:41:25 PM
The painmonger drops the corpse to the ground and turns to fall back in step with the others.
The dwarf is scarred with wounds, yet appears to be in his youth, relatively. His skin has been darkened by the smith's forge and by the grime and dirt that comes with living a life of battle. Long, iron spikes adorn his armor, with a monstrous one on the peak of his helm as the centerpiece to what seems like a mohawk made of metal.
Silently, he falls in with the others, his axe at the ready as he moves to take point.
Ingrge Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:36:08 PM
As Bertram finishes his oratory, Ingrge grins and says, Ahh, a dwarven mine, that would explain the infestation. Be welcome Brother, I hope you are a bit less suicidal than our compatriot here, indicating Dakar.
As he walks along with the miners, Ingrge listens to Figment's comments and then with a sigh responds, " Aye, I agree, but I need rest and a clear mind to do such and it would be helpful if can study the right spells for this little jaunt. We might want to strategically plan our arsenal in the morning.
Flueterflam Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:54:32 PM
Fluet wakes slowly. As he notices the group leaving without him, he shouts, "Hold up!!" As he's running to catch up. When he gets up to the party, "Who are our new friends?"
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 10th, 2001 9:06:19 PM
Bertram chuckles at Ingrge's comments. "I cant speak for him but I am rather attached to my life. I thank you for your welcome. Bertram turns to Dakar. I am glad to meet you as well, Brother." Bertram falls in with the rest of the group as they walk. Anyone who looks the dwarf over will notice plain, unadorned clothing and a chainmail shirt covering his upper body. He is wearing at his neck a small necklace with a medallion showing two crossed swords. He has a Large waraxe strapped to his back.
K'Nara Wednesday April 11th, 2001 6:47:50 AM
The human bladesinger frowned as the young dwarf's comment on how this particular carcass was that of a baby bug sank in.
"If that was a baby bug, then we'll definately have our work cut out for us..." K'Nara said. After a quick check to make sure that Fluet was up and following the group as they were led into the mine by the dwarves (he was, of course!), the tall redhead paused only long enough to pull a torch from her pack and light it. The gloom of a mine was not the environment conducive to humans like herself to see very well, so she opted to carry a light source along.
Dakar Wednesday April 11th, 2001 12:17:53 PM
The battlerager yawns, loudly. And then comes to a halt. He turns to the dwarves next to them and says something, simply, in dwarvish. "Tired. Need to sleep. So do my companions. I can battle if pressed to, if those below are in immediate danger of death, I would do nothing less than offer my life for theirs. But we can save many, many more lives if we can rest as soon as we get to a safe place. This is an urgent matter."
Olana Wednesday April 11th, 2001 12:49:57 PM
"My name's Olana," says the elf cheerily to Bertram, having made sure also that Fluet was on his feet. She takes up the rear of the group, her eyes adjusting to the gloom, and wary for signs of bugs. She was exhausted too. Rest, and food - would be a wonderful thing.
DM Jan (The Mine) Wednesday April 11th, 2001 1:19:41 PM
The light from the entrance of the cavern disappears fairly quickly, along with - thankfully - the stench of the dead bug. The floor of the cavern starts to slope downward, and becomes a tunnel - which seems to snake gradually underground. The temperature is constant, the tunnel dry, and from the light of K'Nara's torch it can be seen that the walls have been evenly tooled to allow easy passage. Every now and then - signs that this place is a mine are in evidence. Passages start to run off here and there - small lines of trucks are parked along the wall, along with wooden shorings and ropes - there's a smell, metallic - hanging in the air.
Apart from the torch, the only source of light comes from dim lanterns hung occasionally here and there. The dwarves have no problem with this amount of light, and the elves can get by - sort of. For everyone else, it's a gloomy place where shadows loom past the torch and the passages leading off look pitch black.
After about half an hour, sounds can be heard - distant clanging from the occasional passage, some dwarven talk, and along with it - a rather delicious smell of cooking.
Orgar leads everyone to what a dwarf would call - a very well lit area. It's still very gloomy. The area appears to be at the edge of something greater, for there is more light ahead around a corner, and the sound of more talking. But here is a large carved alcove, a couple of lanterns and some straw-packed mattresses. "We cleared this out," says Orgar, "seeing as were were told strangers were coming. Bed down here. Young Brother and me will fetch food - and some strong ale. You all look like you need a bucket full."
With that - he and the younger dwarf head off around the corner. Within minutes, they return pulling along two of the mining trucks - converted to carry liquids. There's soup - thick and hearty, with a sack of bread strapped to the side, and in the second truck - ale - dark, rich, strong enough to fell a giant. They're accompanied. Young dwarves, already looking like little old men, stare and whisper in dwarven. Their talk seems to indicate they have never seen strangers before.
Milo Wednesday April 11th, 2001 2:02:16 PM
Moving over to the carts, Milo smells the soup, and then begins ladling up bowls for everyone, and passing them out. Once done, he takes his own bowl, some bread, and a mug of ale over to a mattress, and eats. After having seconds on everything, the halfling lays back onto the mattress for sleep. "That was excellent, my compliments to the chef."
Flueterflam Wednesday April 11th, 2001 6:32:48 PM
Suddenly, the bard blurts out loudly enough for all the group to hear, "Hello, my name's Flueterflam. Sorry to not introduce myself, I'm rather tired." The bard is rather skinny, however, he is toned and looks strong enough to support at least his own weight. He stands about average for a human, 5'10". He has no outstanding features, other than his shoulder length hair. He is 19 years old, but doesn't appear boyish. His demeanor is very friendly. Yet, he appears somewhat confused currently.
Ingrge Wednesday April 11th, 2001 6:54:17 PM
Moving almost woodenly, he is so tired, Ingrge limps along with the others. As their rest area is discovered, he is the first to dump his load. As he puts his pack, bow and sword down, he turns to Bertram and says, why don't we get something to eat and then you can tell me about yourself. After Ingrge gets something to drink and eat, he sits down and gingerly leans up against a wall, wincing as his back bumps up against the rock.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 11th, 2001 8:30:51 PM
Bertram sits and eats with the others, idly chatting with the others that seem willing to talk. "As for myself there isn't much to tell. I decided to join Domi's Temple guards several months ago. Part of joining is going forth into the land searching for signs of impending war." At this point Bertram sighs woefully, "It was so quiet and peaceful. We really really need a good war. Something to get people fired up! Anyway I had heard some vague rumors of troubles here with my cousins so I drifted this way hoping to help. And besides, after hearing what the guards outside have planned for us this should be quite exciting..." Bertram grins and falls back to eating.
K'Nara Thursday April 12th, 2001 6:53:44 AM
K'Nara found a place to stuff the torch so that it could continue to shed its light in their area without setting fire to anything. She went over to one of the mattresses and poked at it--not the best, but much better than a lot of other places she'd ever had to sleep. With an approving nod of her cauled head, the leader of the Emerald Talons turned...in time to accept the food proffered by the workers of the mine.
"My thanks!" she said, taking the stuff and quickly eating it. Breakfast this morning at the Heated Cross seemed ages ago. "This IS very good!"
After finishing off the stew and the hearty ale that went with it, the human female sat, cross-legged, on one of the mattresses and began her nightly maintainence on her sword as Brother Bertram explained a bit of his personal history. She grunted when he finished.
"Huh!" K'Nara scoffed. "From what I've been able to see of the Dark Lord's realm--and what I know about Parnoth--I don't doubt that a war of SOME kind is, indeed, on the horizon! But such things do not concern the Emerald Talons...yet." The tall redhead shifted and looked around at the rest of the party.
"For now, we will rest and recover...and then see if we can't find out more about the situation before trying to do something about it." With a final rasp of her whetstone, the female fighter held up her formidable weapon and inspected it with a critical squint. Her mouth pulled to one side as she apparently accepted her efforts and buffed out the blade before replacing it in its sheath on her back with the ease that comes from years of training.
"Watch assignments will remain as I said before," K'Nara said, rolling to one side and plumping up her straw mattress, "With the exception that--IF our newest arrival is willing, that is--Dakar and Brother Bertram will take fourth watch together." The woman warrior's hazel eyes settled on Bertram, asking him the question in their expression even as she spoke it out loud.
"So...will you stand fourth watch, Brother Bertram..?"
Olana Thursday April 12th, 2001 10:43:17 AM
The elf thanks Orgar gratefully for the hospitality, and takes a seat after throwing her pack on the ground. "Ooooh, thankyou Milo," she says as the halfling hands out the bowls. "This is going to be sooo good." Then, something makes her pause. "Bertram?" she asks the dwarf. "Er.. what did the guards say exactly? They're planning? Planning what?"
DM Jan (The Mine) Thursday April 12th, 2001 10:49:51 AM
The younger members of the mining clan are herded away, giving the Emerald Talons and their new companion some badly needed peace and quiet. There is no sense of day or night here. Occasionally, sounds can be heard - voices,distant clattering of metal on stone, metal on metal, but none of it is loud enough that it will disturb any sleep. The air is cool - but not bone-chillingly so.
Milo Thursday April 12th, 2001 12:33:07 PM
Milo sleeps easily, having a great weariness, and a full belly. Waking to take his watch is not as difficult as he thought it to be. Nearly bursting with excitment, he turns to Fluet in and speaks in hurried whispers, "You never would guess what I was dreaming about Flueterflam... never in a million years... But I'll tell you... I had a dream of walking next to a lake, and seeing a wise old halfling sitting on the shore and fishing. Thinkin' I'll drop a line in the water too, I sit down next to the ol' gaffer, and quietly we reside... one next to the other in peace, hoping to catch that one fish... After a while, he dozed, and I draped my cloak about his shoulders. Waking with a start, the old halfling smiled at me, and said, 'Thank you young patriarch... thank you.' And then I woke up." Practically hopping up and down where he sits, "Oh Fluet, I've been chosen... Alemi has chosen me to serve him as a cleric. In the morning, I'll pray, and you'll see." With that, Milo goes quiet, though his eyes are as bright as ever as he sits in the dark and contemplates.
Dakar Thursday April 12th, 2001 2:29:23 PM
He eats, he sleeps, and quickly his sleeps turn to snores. The battlerager seems to sleep fitfully, twitching every once in a while, as though his mind was wracked by inner torment. He wakes a few times in a start. He looks around, briefly, before returning to his slumber. When it comes his time to give watch he sets up a perimiter around the camp before returning to the center in order to offer up his morning devotions.
Brother Bertram Thursday April 12th, 2001 3:18:58 PM
Bertram grins at Olana. "Caught that comment did ya? The guards dont seem to think too much of you folks. It seems that Parnoth gave orders that no one gets out alive and the guards are setting up a perimeter at all the exits to stop us from leaving. They made comments that they would prefer that Obsidian be sent but they still seemed quite willing to do the job themselves." Bertram's eyes grow cold and distant, "I say we mess up that scaly bastard's plan and get out of here alive just for spite".
Ingrge Thursday April 12th, 2001 5:44:32 PM
Listening to the others chat while he finishes his dinner, Ingrge achingly gets his tire sore carcass of the ground and nods to K'narra as he takes up his watch post, hoping against hope that they can get through the night without any interuptions.
Figment Thursday April 12th, 2001 9:38:04 PM
The mage rests as best he can until it's time for the watch, at which time he speaks with Ingrge about the best spells for the job.
K'Nara Friday April 13th, 2001 6:37:48 AM
Assuming that the new dwarven cleric was willing to share watch duty with Dakar, K'Nara plumped up her mattress, took her backpack off--as well as the weapons she wore on her back. The warrior woman removed a blanket from the pack--which she used like a pillow--and placed the bastard sword and the scimitar near her in case an alarm was sounded. Snuggling down into the straw and pulling up the blanket under her chin, K'Nara easily fell asleep until it would be her turn on watch...
...or until something else would wake her, whichever came first.
Olana Friday April 13th, 2001 10:41:08 AM
"No one gets out alive??" The elf narrows her eyes. "Well the green meany! He gets us to do his dirty work, and then we're going to be ambushed?" With a sigh, she adds. "I knew we'd got off too lightly." Settling to rest for a while, Olana will make sure those who didn't hear this get to know what the group was up against. She then takes her usual watch, presumably with K'Nara.
DM Jan (The Mine) Friday April 13th, 2001 10:58:40 AM
The dwarves leave the Emerald Talons in peace for quite a while. Outside, the day passes, and it is nightfall when Bertram and Dakar take the final watch. About halfway through it, they detect movement opposite the alcove. From a narrow passage emerges a female dwarf. To her fellow dwarves, she looks fairly young, about 4ft tall - her body compact, solid and muscular. She has course sandy hair, woven into a single thick plait, slung over one shoulder. Her clothing is simple, and close fitting. She has a characteristic wide face, and deep set eyes. She says nothing, and leans against the wall - quietly observing as the Talons finally emerge from their well - earned rest.
Figment Friday April 13th, 2001 12:50:14 PM
The mage takes his assigned watch and replentishes his spells for the long day ahead. During the process he realizes he can learn more spells than he could before - which he deems a good thing since it looks like their task ahead is going to be quite difficult.
He smiles to the others as they begin seething about Parnoth. "Don't worry too much about the guards. I'm sure they don't want to come in here so I would expect we have a couple of days at least. We might even be able to find a way to sick these beetles on the guards if we can get them to leave the mine. I think we'll be able to leave undetected at some point.".
As they begin to plan the day the mage offers "If there are a lot of those beetles then I don't think a direct assault will work very well. If a whole mine full of dwarves can't take them out I'm sure we can't either. It will be good to find out what the dwarves know about them so far. Maybe that mage came down here and did something. Once we've got the infestation out of here we can leave by covert means. We might also see if the dwarves would like to leave. In that case we need to be a little more creative. This should be a most interesting day to say the least!".
Dakar Friday April 13th, 2001 2:33:58 PM
Dakar nods to the young dwarf and gestures that she come over to them, pointing to Brother Bertam as he does so, and holding up his hands to show that he carries no arms within them. He remains silent, and, if the female dwarf approaches Bertram, will walk away to allow the two of them to converse.
Ingrge Friday April 13th, 2001 11:04:19 PM
Chatting a bit with Figment during watch and in the morning, Ingrge discusses some thoughts he had dealing with the scrolls they just found and the possibility of sharing spells from each others books.
(ooc Jan, David and I will role-play this via email as to keep the board clear of this inanity. We will of course cc you in all our emails. At which time you may decide if you want to include any/none or all of what was done/said.)
Flueterflam Saturday April 14th, 2001 12:19:26 AM
The bard, also somewhat groggy, laughs at Milo. "Is that so?" Fluet muses a moment before moving on. "How do you know it wasn't just a dream? I know I've had some pretty incredible dreams. Not all of them have ended up quite as profoundly as you proclaim your dream has been." Realizing his skeptism suddenly, "Sorry, i'm not saying you're wrong. I'm just saying don't get your hopes too high. You may have just been having a lucky dream or something."
Milo Sunday April 15th, 2001 7:02:17 PM
Milo smiles a Flueterflam, "I just know." After waking Dakar and Bertram for their watch, Milo takes his second rest. Upon waking, the halfling moves with purpose, kneeling in the middle of the chamber. Grasping the ruby which is the holy symbol for Alemi, Milo begins to pray silently. A look of peace and serenity comes over the halfling's countenance as he continues to pray for about an hour. It is hard to tell, in the dim light, but it is almost as if he is glowing with a dim rosy hue, and when he is finished, he looks up quietly, smiles, and returns to his cot to sort through his satchel. Pulling out a vial, he approaches K'nara, "K'nara, I want to apologize... You trusted me to dispose of this substance, and I did not." He holds up what is plainly a vial of silver mercurium... an exceptionally deadly toxin. "I have been chosen now... by Alemi, to serve as a Patriarch of his order.. and as my first act, I will correct this mistake." Stepping into a clear spot of the cavern, Milo tears a strip from the long side of his cloak. Rolling the strip up, he opens the vial of poison, and slowly allows it to drip into the cloth, giving it time to soak in. Then, taking a lantern from the wall, he pours oil over the poisoned cloth, and then lights it, stepping back quickly to watch it burn to ash.
Brother Bertram Sunday April 15th, 2001 9:35:10 PM
Bertram eyes the dwarf curiously. He smiles and motions her forward in a friendly manner.
K'Nara Monday April 16th, 2001 7:01:40 AM
"Oh, my..!" K'Nara said, her eyes widening when Milo revealed the vial of poison. The surprise turned to respect, however, when the halfling disposed of the deadly stuff. She smiled at Milo. "Congratulations, then, cleric of Alemi."
The party's rest had been undisturbed, so K'Nara retreated some ways away from the group to begin her daily workout of the bladesong techniques for the bastard sword. She noted that she was feeling especially...energetic, but attributed it to getting that much-needed rest.
Slowly at first, then gradually picking up speed, the tall human female pirouetted, slid, stepped, leaped and tumbled in her usual routine, remembering to add the gestures that Greymalkin had recently assigned to her. As she did so, the redhead thought idly that she sure could use some more light over in her section of the cave, it was blasted dark in here! Her energetic feeling suddenly surged...and one of the few lanterns that was in the area suddenly rattled, appearing to strain in K'Nara's direction.
"What the..?" the human bladesinger stopped, staring.
Ah, ha! I can tell by your voice that you've finally tapped into your spellcasting abilities, apprentice! the voice of the Maulk came through via the magic ring he'd given her months ago. It's about time! I was beginning to think we may have been wrong about you after all.
"We?" echoed K'Nara, lifting the ring and speaking into it incredulously. "What are you talking about? Human fighters can't cast spells..!"
Beg to differ, there, K'Nara-- Greymalkin replied, --but YOU *can* cast spells...it's something that first Gemsmith and then myself sensed in you...why else do you think we broke the number one rule of the bladesinger code--that only elves may be bladesingers? You can invoke magic, m'dear...potentially as powerful as any wizard you know.
"Wizards have books to study!" K'Nara pointed out hotly. "*I* don't have the intelligence or patience for that."
Don't underestimate your intelligence, K'Nara...and your brand of magic doesn't require the study of spellbooks...only the will to manifest the effects you wish. Listen to me now, and I'll teach you a few very basic effects that may be of help to you in the near future...
By the time everyone was up and getting ready to start their newest "assignment" from Parnoth, K'Nara had grasped the basics of manipulating magic...and was hoping that she would know when and where to apply them.
"Hello..." the six-foot-tall human bladesinger said as she walked casually up to Brother Bertram and the dwarf female with whom he was conversing, "...Brother Bertram...who do we have here..?"
Olana Monday April 16th, 2001 11:25:00 AM
The elf sinks quietly into her reverie for a while, a little sad and disappointed that their heads are still sought after. Still - they'd got out of these things before. She just hoped she could be more enthusiastic like Figment and Milo were. As the female dwarf approaches, she watches silently, but fully alert.
DM Jan (The Mine) Monday April 16th, 2001 11:36:50 AM
In the relative quiet of the alcove - a good rest proves most beneficial to the Talons, all of whom gain renewed energy and a stronger focus, in some cases a revelation, in others - a knowledge that they appear stronger, and more able to approach whatever danger lies ahead.
The female dwarf has a quizzical look on her face after witnessing some of the Talons recent behaviour as they rested, practiced, swapped spells, and prayed.
But eventually, she approaches the two dwarves and K'Nara. "My name is Helga," she says in a deep voice brimming with authority. "I am clan leader after the recent death of my father. If you are well rested, then I ask if you would come with me to council."
With that, she beckons for everyone to follow her around the corner.
Figment d20+4=18 Monday April 16th, 2001 11:59:39 AM
The mage prepares his spells for the day with Ingrge. He toils in his books as the last watch ends. He then catches a glimpse of something he shouldn't be seeing (Perception, DC 18). His thoughts race. "Was that - sorcerer's magic? Coming from where K'Nara was practicing?!? Only basic stuff but magic none-the-less. I must watch this...".
Once ready he rises and follows the clan leader with the others.
Dakar Monday April 16th, 2001 1:08:17 PM
The dwarf grunts and falls into the rear. As they walk he takes mental note of the tunnels shapes, directions... he looks for any strong lodes that he might follow later to their sources. Overall he remains silent and withdrawn, one can catch him mumbling something about "hearthguard do not clansman make." Every once in a while he'll swing his axe out against a wall from pure frustration with the situation, before regaining his composure and continuing on.
Ingrge Monday April 16th, 2001 2:23:44 PM
Studying and discussing spells with Figment passes the early hours of the morning quickly. Distracted momentarily by Figment's rising and watching K'narra, Ingrge glances up and smiles as he realizes that the talons just got another claw with which to fight.
Milo Tuesday April 17th, 2001 12:37:09 AM
Silent again, Milo steps into line next to Dakar, a concerned expression crosses his brow as he walks next to his friend. "Is your transgression something that you can atone for Dakar? Perhaps you should be thinking of ways to improve your situation and cleanse your name... if you don't mind my saying."
K'Nara Tuesday April 17th, 2001 6:35:34 AM
K'Nara gave a sheepish smile and a shrug to those whom obviously noticed her new-found talents--which she resolved to practice as much as possible now that she knew she had such abilities.
"We would be honored to meet with the council, clan leader Helga." the human bladesinger said with polite sincerity, then gestured for everyone to come along to wherever it was that the young dwarf maiden was going to lead them.
"Dakar..." K'Nara said to the moody battlerager, then paused because she didn't want to sound like she was being a busybody, "...just remember, warrior-priest of Domi...you're a member of the Emerald Talons now. We may not be a clan...but we stick up for our own."
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 17th, 2001 10:36:16 AM
Bertram shoulders his pack and starts forward following the others, keeping an eye out for trouble, thoughts of those bugs fresh in his mind.
Dakar Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:00:12 AM
The dwarf turns to Milo and looks the halfling in the eye. "Honorable death in battle. Or performing a heroic act where I should by all means die, and somehow surviving. The former is the more likely outcome."
Olana Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:27:37 AM
The elf checks her weapons and belongings, and takes a deep breath. Then - after a nod at the others, and a look of determination, she follows the others with the female dwarf, whispering to Fluet as an aside - "I'm starting to hate bugs."
DM Jan (The Mine) Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:50:41 AM
Helga leads everyone around the corner and down a short passage, which suddenly opens out into a large underground cavern. The walls of the cavern are riddled with holes - small tunnels, large tunnels, some in darkness, some bearing lanterns.
One area of the cavern floor is alight with fires and anvils. It is very warm here, and dwarves can be seen at work on various pieces of weaponry. There are weapon racks too - although only a quarter of them are filled with what look like a very good quality of sword. The workers there glance at the newcomers briefly before continuing with their tasks.
Some dwarves look down from the tunnels in the walls, curious to see who has arrived in their midst.
Helga overhears the conversation between Milo and Dakar, and narrows her eyes. "There will be plenty of opportunity for heroics in this place," she says solumnly. "Plenty," before leading everyone toward an arrangement of rocks that allows a group of persons to sit around in a circle, at various heights.
There are dwarves sat there already and waiting, and without further ado, Helga climbs up and takes the highest seat, asking the party to find seats amongst the others where they may. She then announces in common - "These are the agents of the dragon, come to rid us of our menace." There are a few muttered hellos in stumbling common, along with remarks in dwarven about matters of trust - " - if they're with Parnoth, won't they be spies?"
Helga motions for calm, which she obtains somewhat grudgingly. To the party she says - "Forgive my brothers reticence. But we understand that it was one of the dragon's people that brought this menace here - and now he has sent others to take it away again. In the meantime, our people die - my father and brother among them. I would ask you to state plainly your motives and where your loyalties lie."
Ingrge Tuesday April 17th, 2001 12:26:59 PM
Packed up and following along, Ingrge's ire is raised as Helga calls them Parnoth's agents.
"You know not what you say, so I will forgive you and let it pass, but if you ever call us Parnoth's agents again, it will be the last thing you ever say in this lifetime. Now does that answer all yopur questions?"
Milo Tuesday April 17th, 2001 12:42:03 PM
After Helga butts in, Milo mutters so only Dakar can hear, "Why don't you mind yer own... ya ol' busy-body." The halfling gives the dwarven matron a shrewd yet non-threatening look.
At Ingrge's response, Milo pats him on the shoulder... "I'm thinking that diplomacy is not one of your strong suits." The halfling grins openly.
Looking up towards Helga, "Milady, we are here to help you because we believe you to be good people. The men waiting outside the cave above will attempt to kill us once we have completed this task. That is how little Parnoth thinks of us, and that is why we think of him even less. Our loyalties lie in each other, and to those goodly people who have been afflicted by the dragon. If you are not one of those, then I humbly beg your leave."
Figment Tuesday April 17th, 2001 1:20:39 PM
The mage winces as the clan leader describes them as Parnoth's agents and the others grumble simliar rhetoric. He grimaces further when Ingrge speaks.
Hoping to mitigate any ill feelings, he throws in a quick comment leaving the lions share of the time to the warrior woman. "The remains of the mage who delivered this menace to you are hanging by a spit in the cave of the dragon. Ironically, he infested this place with these beetles so he could hurt the dragon by stopping weapon production. I really don't think he cared one way or another about your clan. He was an evil man indeed. We came here because the dragon said he would kill us if we did not come. We are not his agents. We will aid you with this - and any other problem if we can. Anything you can tell us about the infestation will be helpful.".
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 17th, 2001 2:12:36 PM
Bertram jerks to his feet his face red with anger. "Helga thou accuse falsely! I have come to help my cousins and nothing more. And now I see what Dwarven hospitality is like in this part of the world. I serve none save Domi and will have words with any that would argue that point! Bertram eyes the group of dwarves on the rocks angrily.
Dakar Tuesday April 17th, 2001 4:47:59 PM
Dakar speaks in Dwarven, to the rest. "I have no qualms about stating my loyalties. Not am I outraged. You are a community besieged, which I am used to in my homeland. I am Dakar the Painmonger, also called the Oathbreaker. I come from the Northlands where I have sung the song of battle that burns in my blood. I joined the Talons so that I might find rest for I bear the Pariah's mark... their cause is mine. Their cause is just. Their cause is not the cause of Parnoth."
Flueterflam Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:10:06 PM
The bard just frowns as the accusations are made. He lets the others defend their case. However, his brow is wrinkled with distaste an his mouth makes a slight frown as he waits for some decision to be made.
Olana Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:41:09 PM
"They're right," states the elf firmly. "As far as Parnoth is concerned - we are outlaws that he wants rid of - as soon as possible. And you must forgive my fellow elf's outburst. The lives of his family have been threatened driectly and he has no love for that, that - Mean creature!"
K'Nara d20+2=12 Wednesday April 18th, 2001 6:32:05 AM
The tall redheaded human female listened silently as each of the party members stated their case, then stood to her full six feet of height before replying:
"You have every right to be cautious about Parnoth's motives...and even ours, since none of us come from here." K'Nara said firmly. "First of all, Brother Bertram's arrival merely coincided with the rest of us...he was not sent here by the Green One, and so should not be suspected by you the same way you suspect the rest of us.
"Secondly...we've freely admitted that Parnoth sent us here, and my good friend Milo has told you the truth: that we were given the 'choice' of coming here or being put to death, and so we are here.
"And, third but most important..." the female fighter draws in her breath and projects as much sincerity into her next words as she can muster, "...we are the Emerald Talons...we are pledged to help all the people of the Emerald Kingdom--be they human, elf or dwarf. Our ultimate loyalty lies with this pledge. Your people need help...and help you we shall--or die trying." It was easy for K'Nara to have said this, because she was telling the truth.
(OOC: made a voluntary Charisma check, because K'Nara is subconsciously trying to sway the council.)
DM Jan (The Problem with Beetles) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 11:55:58 AM
As the Talons state their case, a lot of excited muttering ensues - mostly in dwarven, some in common with a rather odd, gutteral accent. ".... dead - they say he's dead." ".. all well and good after what he did.." "Talons... like in all the tales.."
Helga stands, motioning for calm. "So - it appears we have been hasty in our assumptions," she says solemnly in perfect common. "Please forgive this? These are troubled times, and we feel somewhat under seige from something we cannot control. Apologies go to our cousin Trothgard too, who will always be welcome here."
In mere moments, the atmosphere appears to have changed, from one of gloomy suspicion, to something definitely more upbeat. Some of the dwarves even look excited, and are quietly discussing battle tactics.
Their leader continues - "In truth - we desperately need your help. We are also under threat to resume production. With your permission - we would like to talk of what threatens us, and would ask you what you already know? "Orgar - ask the brewers to fetch ale - it will help us clear our heads." Almost like magic - a brew cart appears, and sturdy cups of strong dwarven ale are handed around to everyone.
Figment Wednesday April 18th, 2001 12:19:13 PM
The mage takes an ale and sparingly sips on it not wanting to cloud his judgement. "It appears to me that the mage who infested this place did so with a spell. He was a master of many forms of animal control. I am wondering if anybody has noticed any unusual markings anywhere in the caverns - especially ones that were only noticed recently.".
Milo Wednesday April 18th, 2001 12:21:30 PM
Looking to K'nara after she said her piece, "And halflings... you forgot halflings... we always seem to be forgotten..." Though Milo's hurt tone changes as the ale is handed out, and he cheers up, giving the dwarf a friendly smile and nod in thanks.
Dakar Wednesday April 18th, 2001 12:59:28 PM
"I have no time for talk." The dwarf states plainly. "Where are the enemy, for it is to them I shall go to war. It is not a complex matter... when a mine is besieged one must kill all the enemies and if you call yourselves dwarves that would rather talk than do battle. I think staying in these human lands..." Dakar trails off for a moment and begins to walk away before turning, pulling out his hammer and slamming it into the wall. "FOR EACH SECOND WE STAND HERE!" he shouts, before slumping into a heap on the ground. And then begins to cry.
Flueterflam Wednesday April 18th, 2001 2:31:47 PM
The bard's mood changes quickly after the dwarves apologize. At the sound of ale, Fluet suddenly perks up. He mutters something about finally being able to play again. As ale is being passed around, the bard begins playing a rather playful, happy tune. He sings to it...something about everyone who pouts. His eyes dart quickly to Milo and Dakar, to make sure they didn't catch on that he was singing about them.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 18th, 2001 3:45:39 PM
Bertram listens to the words of the dwarves and nods in recognition of thier concillatory nature. He raises a flagon in salute and drains most of it in a large swallow, smacking his lips and nodding his approval through his foam filled beard. His enjoyment is marred however by the words of Dakar. Bertram furrows his brow at the violence and pain evident in his kindred.
Ingrge Wednesday April 18th, 2001 6:39:19 PM
Taking an ale and sipping, Ingrge listens to Figments thought and then asks a question. Has anyone or would it be possible to capture a live one for a quick experiment? If they are magical in nature or created by magic perhaps a dispel magic spell might do the trick.
K'Nara Thursday April 19th, 2001 6:54:16 AM
"Sorry 'bout that, Milo--" the human woman nodded to the thief-turned-cleric, "--I did forget halflings...but we Talons will help halflings, too." K'Nara saluted the ever-patient Milo with a tankard of ale before drinking from it.
"I would ask you what's got you so emotional, Dakar...but I wouldn't want to push you to reveal anything that you are not willing to share." K'Nara said to the obviously-upset battlerager. "We all have...things we'd rather not air in public, so I'll leave the time and place of your revelation--should you ever choose to make one, that is--to your own choosing. Meanwhile...well, it is the wise warrior who gets as much information as possible about one's foe and the terrain in which the battle will be fought before having to face the enemy. Let us give these dwarfs the chance to tell us what they know of the giant beetle menace, hmmm..?" The leader of the Emerald Talons turned to face Helga.
"At your leisure, clan leader, if you would kindly tell us about this unnatural menace faced by you and yours..?"
Olana Thursday April 19th, 2001 11:30:06 AM
Olana takes a sip of the ale and tries not to wince, watching Milo drink the stuff in amazement. Her brow also furrows with concern about Dakar. Trying to get her mind to the task in hand, she listens to the others questions and statements, and offers the following - "All we know - is that there is an "infestation" of some kind, which we are supposed to clear. The man who created this, we have battled with before, and know some of his ways - as Figment says, there may be traps, but the creatures we saw before - were only very small." She shudders, remembering the huge monster beetle that was dragged out of the cavern.
DM Jan (The Problem with Beetles) Thursday April 19th, 2001 11:52:04 AM
The dwarf named Orgar shakes his head at K'Nara and pushes a cup of ale into Dakar's hand. "Drink up, boy," he says. "The burden you carry has been acknowledged, but you must carry it well and nobly, until it is time for your load to be lightened."
With Fluet's tune playing in the background, Helga and the other dwarves listen solemnly to the Talons. At Figment's mention of symbols, a quiet chatter begins, only to be stopped dead by Ingrge's suggestion. The dwarves look at one another, and then to Helga, who frowns and then shrugs. Then she says - "This we know - these monsters are big, they smell. They have 'jaws' at the front that give out a vicious bite. From their rear they shoot out a debilitating poison. Some are different - smaller, faster, more deadly. They seem to protect the others."
She pauses, as a muttering starts amongst the others - "... show them... show them the monster.." "Show them the monster!" someone yells.
"Hold your tongue!" growls Helga. "I'm getting to that." She continues - "We have seen symbols, perhaps - perhaps we SHOULD show you what we have. Orgar?" The male dwarf comes forward. "This way," he beckons, setting off along one of the dimmer passages. Helga shouts after him - "And tell them what we believe!"
Those above elven height will have to duck their head.
Figment Thursday April 19th, 2001 1:14:02 PM
The mage listens intently - especially as they mention symbols. He watches the dwarven guide and listens to what he has to say as they follow him.
Milo Thursday April 19th, 2001 1:42:05 PM
Milo smiles at K'nara, "Of course we will..." And then with one long draught, the halfling drains his mug, wiping his face on his shirt sleeve. "Mmm..boy... there is nothing quite like good dwarven ale." Getting up from where he is sitting, Milo sets the mug down in the cart, and then proceeds to follow Orgar, looking about the tunnels curiously.
Dakar Thursday April 19th, 2001 4:27:07 PM
The battlerager composes himself before handing the ale back to the one who offered it. "Such spirits are not for me."
He turns to K'nara. "Do not patronize me. You know not of the burden I bear, nor can you possibly comprehend it. I have proven myself your better in the arts of war, and have had two of your lifetimes to study tactics and strategy. I live for battle. You live for art and call it battle."
After that, he falls silent, shrugging off any comments K'nara may make in response and following the other dwarves.
K'Nara Friday April 20th, 2001 6:42:02 AM
For a moment, the look on the human bladesinger's face was akin to the shocked paralysis of one who's just had their face slapped by somebody wearing a chainmail glove. Then K'Nara carefully schooled her features into neutrality, slowly bowing her head to the dwarf's back as he walked haughtily away after snubbing not only her but his own people by refusing the drink offered to him.
"So much for giving a male some space." the woman warrior said acerbically, following where Helga led the party. As the six-foot-tall redhead bent to fit into the smaller-sized passage, she couldn't help but think bitterly to herself:
How ironic that a self-confessed "oathbreaker" accuses me of not knowing what it's like to be cut off from one's own clan...if only he knew that I, too, can never go home...
K'Nara's involuntary chuckle as she thought that was a tad bitter to anyone bothering to listen.
Olana Friday April 20th, 2001 11:32:41 AM
Olana walked up alongside K'Nara as they followed the dwarf up the passage and whispered to her, an easy thing to do seeing as the tall human was bent over a little. "I think in dwarf terms, Dakar is just a boy. Maybe here, amongst his own kind - it might be difficult. I don't know much about 'oathbreaking'. Perhaps we should ask this new companion of ours - Bertram - about'oathbreaking'. Dakar does seem to be acting strangely."
Flueterflam Friday April 20th, 2001 11:36:37 AM
Fluet slings up his lute and follows the group. Although he is only average height for a human, he is forced to duck as he travels through the caves.
DM Jan (The Trouble with Beetles) Friday April 20th, 2001 6:35:25 PM
Orgar leads everyone down a passage that, although not diminishing in height, seems to get narrower. It slopes downward, takes the odd twist and turn. Every now and then another tunnel veers off to the left or right, but Orgar doesn't travel down any of them.
Eventually, a smell begins to appear, not a particularly nice one either. Then - the tunnel widens once more into a small cavern. There's a dwarf sat by the wall next to an ale cart - an enormous axe rests on his knee and he wears a peg on his nose.
In the center of the cavern, is a HUGE beetle - approx 12 feet in length, wingless, bright green and partially flattened by an immense flat rock held above it by strong ropes. At it's head are two pincers, which occasionally snap in apparent anger. The smell is... wonderfully rich.
Brother Bertram Friday April 20th, 2001 9:44:43 PM
Bertram wrinkles his nose at the smell as the group approaches the struggling beetle. His hands fall to his axe out of habit before he realizes it. Abashedly he drops his hand from the axe and instead keeps an eye out for any other predators in the area.
Figment d20+4=24 Friday April 20th, 2001 10:03:45 PM
The mage quickly begins to study the cavern and then closely examines the beetle - but not too close... He looks carefully for any symbols or signs that might be on it or any sign of magical aura or 'residue' determined to find out how this guy managed to make this happen. (Natural 20! DC 24 Perception check).
Figment, cont. Friday April 20th, 2001 10:18:54 PM
"This guy" would be the now dead mage...
Ingrge Saturday April 21st, 2001 2:59:05 PM
"My god, What died?" Tying a scarf across his nose and mouth to try and filter out some of the odor, Ingrge steps just inside, making darn sure to stay away from the critter, and inspects the beetle and casts a detect magic spell.
Milo Sunday April 22nd, 2001 10:32:04 PM
Milo stares at the huge bug with disbelief, "You want us to fight that? Oh dear heavens... what is that smell...? At least we'll know when they are around..." Milo steps back, holding his nose.
Olana Monday April 23rd, 2001 12:49:56 AM
"Oh my..." mutters the elf at the rather alarming pong, presumably coming from the beetle. "Careful!" she utters, as Figment and Ingrge inspect the thing. Her eyes move to those of her companions, the question in them being - 'How are we going to get rid of these horrible things?'
Turning to Orgar, she asks - "Do you know how many of these things are in the mine?"
K'Nara Monday April 23rd, 2001 6:01:39 AM
"Holy Mittiri!!!" the tall redhead exclaimed as she saw the size of the beetle. "Looks like that wizard really knew how to grow these things, eh?" K'Nara gave a low whistle, eyeing the oversized mandibles. "Fighting one or two of these will doubtless be really tough--if there are more than that, though...we'll have to come up with some kind of plan, that's for sure..." She glanced Figment and Ingrge's way, hoping that their superior intelligence would be able to counter the problem of the beetles.
DM Jan (The Trouble with Beetles) Monday April 23rd, 2001 10:42:28 AM
When approached by Figment and Ingrge, the creature lets out a blue, violent shot of poison from its back end, which splatters away from everyone against the wall behind it. From the colour of that wall - it appears that this has happened before. Frustrated at being unable to attack, it wriggles under the stone, snapping it's pincers.
Ingrge's spell does indeed detect an aura of magic about it, and when Figment examines the creature - he notices strange, glyph-like symbols along it's flank - a lighter green than the rest of it's carcass.
To Bertram, this appears to be the only beetle-like creature in the vicinity. In answer to Olana's question, Orgar rubs his beard. "We 'think' there's three of 'em - including this one. But - there's a load of little un's - nowhere near as big as this - but they're fast and have 'fangs' like this 'un. They attack like packs of dogs.
"The thing is," he continues, "we've been trying to reason out why they're here in the first instance. These big 'uns eat the rock - and occasionally they'll lay an egg - pure metal. We managed to get one, and we're working on it. What'll come of it - we don't know yet."
He then looks around, meeting everyone's eyes. "This one - killed Helga's father and brother - and one of my cousins died from the poison. I'd like to put an axe through it but Helga was waiting till you got here first."
Figment d20+13=33 Monday April 23rd, 2001 11:28:55 AM
Seeing the glyphs, the mage says to Ingrge "Direct your spell at those glyphs. What do you see? I strongly suspect if we can dispel the glyphs that the thing may die or be rendered much less agressive.". He also examines the glyphs and attempts to identify their nature and what kind they may be (DC 33! Int+spellcraft). [Seeing how this is the third time he has encountered this mage's work, he knows what to look for - maybe an additional plus]
After he examines the glyphs he speaks to the guard. "I have some questions. Please answer them as completely as you can: First, Do the small beetles lay eggs too? Second, you see these marking on the beetle - have you seen any on the walls of tunnels? Third, How often do these things lay eggs? And fourth, Are the smaller ones growing and if so, how fast? Fifth, are the attacks orchestrated? Do they look like they are thinking as a unit?". He nods his appreciation to any answer given.
After the guard - or whomever - answers, he turns to Ingrge, "My friend, I would like to cast dispel magic on this beetle, but I lost my spell when we helped Olana with here armor problem. I saw you have the spell, do you perchance have it memorized? If so, lets clear the area and you cast it on those glyphs. If not, I would request you memorize it at your earliest convenience and then cast it.". the mage hesistates as he considers what he has in mind to say next. "One more thing. If the spell works, I would think it in our best interest for me to memorize the spell too - but I know that is a great favor to ask..."
Dakar Monday April 23rd, 2001 12:09:40 PM
"If it can be hurt then it can be killed." the dwarf states simply. "We can take solace in that. Domi will provide. Fortune favors the bold."
Ingrge Monday April 23rd, 2001 7:13:34 PM
Responding to the glow of magic from his spell, Ingrge slowly directs the spell over all parts of the beast and then as Figment mentions it on the Glyphs themselves. Listening with half an ear to the question and answer session, he too nods as the answers come forth. as The dwarf finishes answering Ingrge looks up. I too would ask an additional question or two. First, Do the smaller beatles have any glyphs on them? And, are the smaller ones exact replicas of these bigger ones? and finally do the smaller ones uxude any of that poison?
At Figment's mention using the dispel magic spell on the beetle and the glyphs, Ingrge grins and says Well you know I just happen to have it memorized. I though that perhaps we might need it. I was of that mind last night, so I made sure I had it this day.
And as I mentioned before when you used your spell I said that I would replace it somehow and now that I have this spell you may of course copy it down from me.
Brother Bertram Monday April 23rd, 2001 10:47:14 PM
Bertram keeps watch against other of these horrific creatures approaching, and at the same time listens to the spellcasters discuss their findings.
Olana Tuesday April 24th, 2001 1:30:46 AM
As the mages do their investigation, Olana creeps over to Bertram. "I hope you don't mind me asking," she whispers, "but just how serious is this oathbreaking business in the dwarven community?"
Milo Tuesday April 24th, 2001 1:47:25 AM
Inviting himself into the conversation with Olana, "I don't know about oathbreaking amongst dwarves... but I use to hang with a pretty rough crowd, and I split... I'm surprised I haven't seen any of them pop up yet to try and slit my throat." Milo looks pale for a moment, and then he seems to shake it off.
K'Nara Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:50:41 AM
With half an ear towards the huddle between Figment, Ingrge and the dwarf guarding the beetle, K'Nara commented to Milo amiably: "Why, Milo--I would NEVER allow anyone else to slit your throat...that's something I will do the next time you give me gray hairs with one of your 'sudden inspirations'..!" Milo could tell that--unlike the forced joviality with Parnoth's guards--this time the tall human woman WAS just joking.
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 24th, 2001 8:19:59 AM
Bertram considered the question for a moment. "Oathbreaking is taken very seriously amongst my people. There are few ways to atone for such a thing." Bertram leaned closer and whispered in Olana's ear. "Now having said that, your dwarven friend is out of control. His actions are an embarassment to a dwarf and to Domi, our God. He seems to have a deathwish and his aggressive behavior could get us all killed. I realize he is your companion so I hope that you can get him under control to some extent." Bertram pats her hand for a moment and then starts sharpening his axe as the mages discuss bugs and spells.
DM Jan (The Trouble with Beetles) Tuesday April 24th, 2001 11:24:08 AM
Through Ingrge's spell, and Figment's further examination, they can see the spell looks intricate and complicated. Some of the glyphs inter- connect, some are isolated. Whatever this is - has been carefully thought out, and seems to go into areas not normally traveled. One thing though - both wizards seem to think that all this is leaning towards alchemy of some kind.
At the barrage of questions, Orgar says - "Goh! That's a lot of questions. I need an ale." The one guarding the beetle chuckles and hands the other dwarf a cup, which Orgar swills down with relish. "Right... *BURP* ...about the beetles." He takes a deep breath and continues - "They don't lay many eggs - in fact we've only been able to get to one. As for the marks - I don't think we've seen them anywhere else. "Now - as for those little terrors - they don't lay eggs, they don't have poison. They're slightly different - same colours but with flatter, harder bodies - pincers are the same size though, an' they don't have patterns on 'em like that one does. They fight like they're protecting their mamma, maybe."
To other members of the party, they get a chance to experience the terrain they're going to be working in. Tunnels no greater than five and a half feet, a slight breeze that carried echoes of voices and other sounds here and there. The horrible beetle smell, and a myriad of chambers through which to crawl. There is also a distinct lack of light - some of the offshoot tunnels are as black as pitch.
Figment Tuesday April 24th, 2001 11:45:59 AM
The mage smiles at Ingrge. "Well, my friend, it looks like we need to do a test. I've never seen glyphs that smack of alchemy before. This guy was quite the artist. Since I don't know all that much about that craft I would say lets experiment on this thing and see what effect dispelling the glyphs have.".
"Orgar, if we can manage it, and these little beetles are protecting the big ones, perhaps we can get this one to the surface and let it get a scent of the guards outside. Maybe it will attack the guard and the babies will follow? And if that fails, perhaps we can create an illusion of a big one going to the surface and lure the little ones to the surface that way. Then the guards can fight them and save us the trouble. In the confusion we can leave once they are all gone.".
Milo Tuesday April 24th, 2001 12:22:05 PM
Milo grins sheepishly at K'nara as she makes her exclamation. Then, upon hearing Figment's plan, he looks somewhat shocked, "Uh... Figment... far be it from me to dispute one so wise, but while that may solve our problem, I honestly think that the guards will not be able to handle the critters, and then the good dwarves here are still stuck with their problem. I don't think there is going to be an easy solution to either problem... if you know what I mean." The halfling looks deeply concerned regarding the whole affair.
Figment Tuesday April 24th, 2001 1:10:25 PM
The mage chuckles at being called wise. "I may be smart, Milo, but not so wise. I don't think I would be worried about the guard. So the big green guy would have to keep the bugs from getting into the city. He'd lose a lot of men that way. Too bad... :) Remember, he told us to fix the problem. He did not say we couldn't cause more. Of course, I wouldn't want to be near here when he finishes dealing with it.".
Dakar Tuesday April 24th, 2001 5:23:04 PM
The dwarf turns to Figment "Aye, the Green one would protect the city. But what of the towns that are between here and there. The guard above... What right do you have to decide whether they live or die? They are mere soldiers in Parnoth's employ, not members of Obsidian solely. They have family. Your solution is unacceptable, and one of cowardice."
Ingrge d20+8=17 Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:42:47 PM
Nodding to figment and looking to K'narra for any final obstacle, Ingrge casts a dispel magic on the beetle centered on the Glyphs. and awaits to see what happens.
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 24th, 2001 10:05:25 PM
Bertram listens to Dakar while watching Ingrge cast his spell. He starts to say something to Dakar but bites his tongue and goes back to watching the beetle to see if the spell has any noticeable effect.
Olana Wednesday April 25th, 2001 1:25:53 AM
The somewhat puzzled and worried elf looks between Bertram and Dakar for a moment, "Oh..." she says, wishing she'd never asked. She had a sudden mental image of hordes of halflings coming after Milo too, which she dismissed quickly. Shrugging at K'Nara, she decided to pay attention to more immediate business. "I wouldn't like to let that thing loose," she says, pointing to the beetle. "I mean that tunnel goes straight back to the dwarven encampment doesn't it?"
Flueterflam Wednesday April 25th, 2001 2:14:56 AM
The bard just shudders at the thought of everything going on currently. He appears to stay back and stay quiet. He appears in doubt of what the group needs to do, and even more in doubt of how the group will accomplish these things. "Hmmm...this should be interesting..." As Ingrge casts his spell, Fluet moves back a bit more. He appears to expect the glyphs and dispelling to be somewhat destructive.
K'Nara Wednesday April 25th, 2001 6:11:35 AM
"Loose the bug on the guards--now THERE'S an idea..." mused K'Nara, tapping her chin in contemplation, "...it might work, but I'd want to at least make sure that this mine was no longer plagued by any of the other beetles running around in here...and, should we actually do that, we would be obligated to follow the beetle in order to make sure that the thing didn't run around loose after the guards were sufficiently...distracted.
"No, for now we'll just have to handle clearing this place of the bugs first. After the dwarves here are no longer threatened by them, then we can see about how to get away without becoming casualties of Parnoth's guards." So saying, the human bladesinger turned her attention to seeing how Ingrge cast his spell, noting the intonations and the gestures that accompanied the invocation of the dismissive magic.
Someday I might do that... she thought to herself.
The First Skirmish
DM Jan Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:21:04 AM
Ingrge's spell takes effect. It can be seen on the flank of the giant beetle that the glyphs suddenly appear dull and are hardly noticable. This does not however, do anything to improve the beast's temper, which lets two huge blobs of poison splat against the wall behind it.
Just then, a clattering of boots echo through the chamber, and two other dwarves appear, decidedly out of breath. One of them is bleeding rather badly. "The South passage," they gasp. "Beetles!"
Figment Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:39:55 AM
The mage watches the reaction of the beetle. "Hmmm. I'd say it is best to watch this thing and observe if the magic returns to the glyphs.".
As the commotion ensues the mage waits until the dwarves clear the passage and the bugs are within 20' of the cavern. He then casts. A mass of web engulf the entire passageway back 60' entrapping any beetles that might be in them (i.e. 10'). "That'll at least slow them down. Stay back a minute guys.". He asks the dwarves "How far back does the passage go?" as he prepares to cast again.
Dakar Wednesday April 25th, 2001 12:27:43 PM
The dwarf slaps his helm in utter disbelief. "WHAT THE BLOODY HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!?" he yells at Figment. "You had no idea how many other dwarves were down there, nor how far away the South passage is! You may have just consigned half the clan to certain death!" Turning to Helga he asks, "To the south passage, is there another route?" in dwarvish. Following her answer he will run that route as fast as his Dwarven legs will carry him, readying his axe as he does so and preparing himself to meet with destiny.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 25th, 2001 3:35:10 PM
Bertram sets his axe beside him as he watches Dakar run off in a great rage. Shaking his head bemusedly he gets out a torch and lights it, taking his time. He looks to the others. "If there are others trapped down there then we can burn the webs out of the way I would think? What say you Friend Figment? Will that make a pathway if there are others trapped below?" Bertram holds the lit torch in one hand and picks up his massive axe easily with the other while waiting to see what the tunnel holds.
Ingrge Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:39:58 PM
disapointed that not more happened, Ingrge turns to face the new threat. " Well, I always heard that crisp fried bugs were considered a delicacy in some parts. Let's find out if its true."
Flueterflam Thursday April 26th, 2001 12:05:26 AM
He cusses...loudly. "How the hell are we gonna just race over and just hope we can kill these things??? Where's their vulnerable point? Do they have one? We can't just be running to our deaths without knowing." With that said, the bard stays in the cavern watching the beetle with interest and distaste until receiving a good answer.
Olana Thursday April 26th, 2001 12:20:47 AM
"Oh my!" exclaims the elf. Figuring she wouldn't be able to use her bow successfully in these tunnels, she pulls her sword. "Okay - lets see just how tough these things are," she says with conviction. She'll fall in with the others under K'nara's direction.
Milo Thursday April 26th, 2001 12:48:22 AM
After watching the various reactions, Milo takes a deep breath and looks skyward, speaking under his breath, "Thank you for granting me patience Alemi." With that, he draws his short sword. Resting the flat of the blade on his shoulder, Milo looks to K'nara for direction, ready to follow on her command.
K'Nara d20+2=15 d20+2=10 Thursday April 26th, 2001 6:27:30 AM
"I don't think that the magic is sustaining that bug's size--" the human bladesinger began to comment to Figment and Ingrge, going with the instinct that seemed to kick in regarding the magic glyphs and the Dispel Magic that was just cast upon them and the beetle. (OOC: just rolled for her newly-acquired Spellcraft skill.) K'Nara was interrupted by the dramatic appearance of the dwarves from the south passage.
(OOC: Dakar reacted a little TOO quickly there--Figment's entire post reads that the mage "waits until the dwarves clear the passage and the bugs are within 20' of the cavern. He then casts." This means that his intended action will not take place until (a) the dwarves are clear, and (b) the bugs are within 20' of the cavern. DM Jan has yet to say that such things HAVE happened.)
K'Nara tried to tell which spell Figment was preparing to cast (OOC: that second Spellcraft roll), but the spell was obviously of a level beyond her ability to gauge easily. She'd have to wait until he actually cast it to see what his intended effect would be.
"Fighters up front--we're going down that passage and I want those of us who are best armored to go first--that would be Dakar, Olana, Ingrge and me..!" the leader of the Talons barked, drawing her bastard sword from its sheath on her back. "Remember that these things squirt that poison, too!" K'Nara turned to Helga. "Clanleader--what is the south passage like...and where does it lead to..?" As soon as the dwarf female told the warrior woman the information that she needed to hear, K'Nara organized the Talons into a marching order and advanced upon the passage they'd be traversing, commanding her sword to flame on with a terse "Lucia!"
(OOC: single file order--Dakar, Olana, Ingrge, K'Nara, Fluet, Figment, Bertram, and Milo. 2-person-wide marching order: Dakar & Olana, Ingrge & K'Nara, Fluet & Figment, and Milo & Bertram.)
Ingrge (Here we are just a walking down the street....) Thursday April 26th, 2001 7:29:23 AM
Ingrge falls in either beside or in front of K'narra, with a jovial hey now watch what your doing with that thing. when she activates her sword.
DM Jan (... singing doo wah diddy diddy BUG diddy doo) Thursday April 26th, 2001 11:15:38 AM
A few things seem to happen at once.
Orgar says "It's... oh!" as the far end of the passage the two other dwarves have emerged from gets blocked by a sticky web. "... down there." He blinks for a moment, then climbs up a rocky slope into a much smaller passage running above, and parallel to the blocked one. "This way!" he says - disappearing into what is basically a small dark hole. Torches and flaming swords would be at a disadventage here.
There appear to be two choices - follow Orgar, or enter the blocked passage and burn the webbing.
Fluet fails to spot anything else about the beetle that Ingrge and Figment havent already seen - it looks mean, bad tempered - jaws at the front, poison at the back - and this one appears to have "lost it's mojo, baby yeah!".
((OOC - just to clear up a little confusion - Helga and most of the other dwarf population are about half a mile back at the main camp. You have Orgar with you. The terrain is all dark, shadowy tunnels - some of which go for great distances and are linked by many cross passages. It would be very easy to get lost.))
Figment 6d6(4+2+5+5+4+2)=22 Thursday April 26th, 2001 12:12:44 PM
The mage says to Dakar before he casts "Just trying to soften them up a bit before you have to feel the pincers on those things!". As he completes his spell he releases a bolt of electricity that travels instantly down the tunnel 160' beginning just in front of the web electrocuting anything in its path. He smiles as the webs begin to burn as well knowing they will take additional damage from the fire. "Let's see how they like that!". (22 DMG, no dodge save as they are caught in the web 60' back. Plus fire damage... :))
Figment, Cont. Thursday April 26th, 2001 12:14:38 PM
The mage follows the dwarves back down the passage if they continue to retreat and the warrior woman gives the order. Otherwise, he sets up to cast yet again.
Dakar (Bull's Strength) d4+1=5 Thursday April 26th, 2001 4:47:25 PM
The battle-rager follows closely after Orgar, sending a prayer up to Domi as he does so, a nimbus of energy gathers around him, and his already corded muscles are fueled even further with the touch of the battle god (Bulls Strength, He's up to Str 24 now).
Olana Thursday April 26th, 2001 6:53:51 PM
Baffled, the elf exclaims - "But I can't see any beetles." She certainly doesn't fancy crawling after Orgar and Dakar. Maybe there was a way through now that Figment had blasted the web (and hopefully some nasties).
Brother Bertram Thursday April 26th, 2001 9:15:46 PM
Bertram sees the look of distaste on Olana's face and chuckles. "I would say you get used to it but as an elf you probably don't" He grins easily. "What say we start down the greater passage and see if we have a horde of beetles coming our way?"
Milo Friday April 27th, 2001 3:41:34 AM
Milo cocks his head to the side and grins as he steps in line next to Bertram. Turning to the dwarf, he speaks cheerfully, "Hello... remember me?" Smiling broadly, "Hey... we're headin' down into dwarven mines to do our work... May as well whistle a merry tune... ya know... whistle while we work." Milo leans in conspiratorially, "I've always wanted to say that." With a grin the halfling indeed whistles a spritely melody.
K'Nara Friday April 27th, 2001 6:26:18 AM
"Orgar...Dakar, don't--" the female fighter hollered, but the two dwarves disappeared down that hole...a place she knew a human her size wouldn't be able to follow without some way being able to see. The string of pungent and colorful language that burst from her lips was enough to make nearby plant life wilt...had there been any.
"We have to go down the larger passageway withOUT Dakar, then," K'Nara said with annoyance, "I'd send you with them, Brother Bertram...but you're the only other cleric-type in the party and we may need you with us." She strode over to the tunnel to survey the aftermath of Figment's spellcasting.
"I hope that helped us out, Figment," K'Nara said, nodding, "Now, c'mon, Talons--let's 'de-bug' this place..!"
(OOC: the marching order above stands for both single-file and double formations...with the exception [of course] of Dakar.)
DM Jan (Dungeons and Beetles) Friday April 27th, 2001 11:34:10 AM
Figment's lightning spell howls down the tunnel, blasting a passable hole in the web, leaving the tunnel free. The flash leaves spots before everyone's eyes.
Up above, Orgar and Dakar scamble along a makeshift dark, narrow passage that anyone other than a dwarf would find difficult - and emerge next to the far end of the larger tunnel's entrance. Orgar beckons to K'Nara, Olana, Ingrge, Bertram, Milo, Figment and Fluet. "It's down this way!" he yells before disappearing left.
Those who go down the larger tunnel will reach a t-junction. Right goes up, left goes down into the gloom. It is smoothly hewn here, and anyone under 5'5" will be able to stand upright.
From the left direction, they will hear a strange scratching noise in the distance accompained by yells of pain. From the flames of K'Nara's sword, and Bertram's torch - Orgar and Dakar can be seen dead ahead - running toward the commotion. Shadows dance deceptively along the walls.
Figment Friday April 27th, 2001 12:04:57 PM
Perplexed the mage looks for the bug bodies that should be lying everywhere as he follows the others down the tunnel. (OOC: I said he waited until the bugs got withing 20' of the entrance to cast. If there were no bugs then Figment did not cast any spells at all.).
Milo Friday April 27th, 2001 12:53:36 PM
Milo winces when K'nara states that Bertram is the only other cleric-type in the party, muttering to himself, "Forgotten again..." The diminutive patriarch looks as though he has sucked a whole crate of lemons as he follows the group into the passageway, though he remains silent thinking to himself, 'Just wait... she'll see.'
Brother Bertram Friday April 27th, 2001 9:55:03 PM
Bertram chuckles at Milo's muttered words. He leans over clapping him on the back. "Don't let it bother ya Friend Milo. Fighter types constantly assume that anyone that is a healer has no other skills and would be better off out of thier way" Bertram snorts, "That and the fact that as soon as they get thier arses handed to them in combat by some powerful creature they run to us healers and then forget about us until we are needed again. You can get used to it Friend Milo, but it doesn't mean you have to like it." Bertram winks at Milo then starts down the hallway cheerily.
Flueterflam Saturday April 28th, 2001 1:19:29 PM
"Awww crap...." Feeling somewhat obligated, the bard follows along, despite his instincts. Anyone near him can hear him muttering something about stupid bugs, rash dwarves, and all around confusion.
Ingrge Saturday April 28th, 2001 2:21:39 PM
Very flashy Figment but don't you think it would be better if we have clear targets in sight before we bring the entire mine down on our heads. Dwarven miners are good but even they can't defy the physical laws of nature, and there is a lot of earth above us right now.
Dakar (Bull's Str, STR 24) Saturday April 28th, 2001 4:31:27 PM
His legs carrying him as quickly as possible, the Painmonger readies his war axe in both hands. Turning to Orgar he states "The ichor of the insects shall fill the tunnels tonight." As soon as he is available to get into the fray he begins to rain blows on any of the insects he can, the warcry of Domi pumping through his lungs.
Olana Monday April 30th, 2001 12:08:47 AM
With a business-like nod at K'Nara, and a wink at Fluet the elf heads off toward the trouble, keeping within reasonable range of any light that's around, and advancing cautiously after the other dwarves.
Flueterflam Monday April 30th, 2001 12:17:10 AM
A grim frown appears on the bard's face as he notices Olana's wink. No happiness appears to be present in him. Quietly muttering, "Damn bugs........better die.......sick of these darned 'assignments'.....get back at that lousy green guy....someday.....grrrrrrrr......"
K'Nara Monday April 30th, 2001 6:02:03 AM
The human bladesinger held her flaming sword as high as possible, even though she herself had to duck down in order to traverse the "large" passage.
"Careful, now--we have to keep enough space between me and anyone else while I'm using Lucia to light our way..." K'Nara pointed out as the group advanced cautiously down the passage, "...we also have to try to keep Orgar and Dakar reasonably in sight...we don't know the exact way to the 'south passage' that these bugs are infesting..." K'Nara remembers to bear left, in the direction Orgar disappeared.
DM Jan (Beetles, beetles, beetles) Monday April 30th, 2001 11:28:28 AM
The passage continues, winding ever downward, and the noise of weird scratching and cries for help and of pain get a lot closer. More cross passages appear that seem to honeycomb the rock.
Then - Dakar and Orgar burst into a scene that can only be described as a nightmare. In a badly lit gloomy cavern (size approx 30ft x 30ft) - three dwarves can be seen battling 7 six-legged giant beetles. Their bodies are about 5ft diameter, and each is armed with a set of nasty pincer-like mandibles that snap viciously as they attack. Their legs are making that scratching noise as they scuttle along the rock floor. Their hides look tough and well armoured.
K'Nara, Bertram, Figment, Milo, Ingrge, Fluet and Olana are still in the tunnel at this point and it will take another round for them to join the fray. However, the sound is difficult to determine here because of the myriad of tunnels sending echoes. But could some of that scratching appear much closer? ((LISTEN CHECK for those in the tunnel please. Don't forget to add your skill bonus if you have one. 1d20/WIS DC18))
Figment d20+2=6 Monday April 30th, 2001 11:46:48 AM
Utterly disgusted at his misread of the situation the mage curses his foolish waste of magical energy as he hunches over and begins to decend into the depths. "I hope I didn't just kill us all by limiting my effectiveness in the upcoming fight. Sorry, I must've been seeing ghosts behind those dwarves.". Totally distracted the mage hears nothing at all to indicate the direction of the bugs - other than in front of him somewhere.
Milo d20+6=18 Monday April 30th, 2001 1:30:41 PM
Smiling broadly at Bertram, Milo nods, "I think I'm going to like you." Then turning, he follows the group down into the tunnels. Being the smallest, Milo seems to be not at all bothered by the close quarters of the tunnels they traverse, but as they grow closer to the clicking noises, he slows his pace a bit a starts to look about warily, short sword at the ready. (OOC: Made listen check at DC18)
Dakar d20+12=30 d10+10=18 Monday April 30th, 2001 3:02:20 PM
Dakar rushes the closes beetle crying out with rage as he does so. Sweat covers his brow as he launches into song, crescendoing as his first axe strike falls, biting deep into the creatures chitin (AC 30, 18 damage. (the +10 breaks down to +6 from strength, +3 damage for wielding the weapon two-handed, +1 for magic adjustment)). He turns to his brethren and continues his song of battle, nodding to them in consignation of their mutual fate.
In dwarvish his song is translated as: "The fallen one delves in caverns deep to strike against his foes. His blood and sweat are the only things that can purify him. Before he dies so will his enemies, in hopes that he may find honor in Domi's cradling arms from his past woes."
Ingrge d20=4 Monday April 30th, 2001 7:35:38 PM
Listening to Figment as they hurry along, Ingrge totally missed any noises he might have heard. Responding to Figment he asks, well shall we have a plan of attack when we get there? I can start out with a web spell to try and tie a few of them down, but I don't really have a whole lot of spells memorized, that will do a whole lot to them, I'm afraid. we may need to get a bit creative in the next few minutes.
Flueterflam d20=5 Monday April 30th, 2001 9:39:00 PM
The bard follows the others, basically staying to the rear of the group. In his frustration, the only thing going through his head is how they are all going to die. He starts to feel even more cramped and begins to wonder if maybe he's claustrophobic. Flueterflam's thoughts are too loud in his head to notice anything unusual.
Brother Bertram d20=7 Monday April 30th, 2001 10:03:27 PM
Bertram trots alongside Milo totally at ease in the gloomy passage. His massive axe he carries in his right hand and the torch in the left. He listens to the others talking and misses any noises from up ahead.
Olana d20=5 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 2:10:28 AM
((Listen check +3 = 8)) The elf moves swiftly along the tunnel toward the front of the group, wincing as she hears cries of pain. Her concentration on what lies ahead is such that she fails to hear anything from another source.
K'Nara d20-1=14 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 6:19:25 AM
K'Nara pushed forward steadily but cautiously--the closeness of the tunnel made her extremely aware of the damage her flaming sword could possibly do to the others. Keeping their safety in mind, the woman warrior didn't pick up on any auditory clues.
DM Jan (The Beetles Attack!) d20+2=3 d20+2=10 d20+2=16 d10+3=5 d10+3=11 d20+2=20 2d10(7+7)+3=17 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 11:24:17 AM
Suddenly - those moving through the tunnel toward the cavern are assaulted by 3 beetles which come scurrying out of some of the darker side passages. They slam into the rear of the party, snapping at Figment, Bert and Milo. In the confusion - their pincers miss Figment and Bertram, but chomp at Milo ((16 DAM)). Milo - who was aware of something nasty approaching, is able to partially dodge the creature. ((DEX against DC12 for half damage, Milo.))
This particular attack drives a wedge into the party, cutting off Milo, Bert and Figment from the others in the tight tunnel.
Olana, Ingrge, K'Nara, and Fluet only are able to move into the main cavern, or they can stick around at help their comrades.
Out in the cavern, axes and pincers clash menacingly on both sides. Dakar's beetle drops dead onto the floor, but another takes it's place, stabbing forth with both prongs and snapping shut ((DAM 17)). Orgar takes a bit out of another one. The three other dwarves are not faring well against the remaining 4.
((Status - 3 beetles in tunnel on Figment, Milo, Bertram. 6 beetles in cavern - 1 on Dakar, 1 on Orgar, 4 on injured dwarves))
Milo d20+4=12 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 12:01:09 PM
Milo's eyes grow wide as his head whips around to one of the side passages, and the halfling dodges to the side, turning what may have been a fatal wound to something somewhat less serious. (OOC: DC12 on the number...whew!)
Dancing back away from his attackers so as not to provoke an attack of opportunity, Milo takes a brief moment to pray, "Alemi, Lord of Justice, protect me in my time of need that I may serve up your wrath to these vile creatures." Milo seems to glow dimly with ruby light, as a shield of pure faith springs up to protect him. (OOC: Cast Shield of Faith on self to increase AC by +2 to 19. Will last for 1 minute)
Brother Bertram d20+6=16 d10+6=11 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 12:06:57 PM
Bertram throws the torch in front of the one on Milo trying to either scare it or make its next attack miss. He swings his axe at the beetle that he is faced with hitting it squarely. He pulls the axe free trying to avoid the snapping pincers.
Figment Tuesday May 1st, 2001 12:45:00 PM
Seeing that no web spell will be of any use in this case, the mage uses the opportunity to see if these things like slumber as he casts his sleep spell on the mirauding insects. (centered on the bug in the middle)
Dakar (Bull's Strength STR 24) d20+12=28 d10+10=18 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 1:02:26 PM
Dakar winces through the pain and strikes out again with his axe, again burying it deep in the beetle's underbelly. His song grows louder with each successive swing of his axe, and he sings it now through clenched teeth as his own blood seeps down his leg.
In Dwarvish he sings: "For the might of Domi, taste the wrath of his sting. For the might of Domi, taste the wrath of his sting. We strike out for fallen brethren my axe and I. We strike out as we are nameless."
Ingrge d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 Tuesday May 1st, 2001 9:04:43 PM
With a quick chant and motion, Ingrge sends three bolts of energy at the beetle that attacked Milo. (magic missile, 18 points) and then yells, "K'narra, You will be more effective in the cavern. Fluet you stay out here and help Milo Bertram and Figment. Olanna an I will join the group in the cavern." with that said Ingrge makes his way into the cavern.
Flueterflam d20+5=22 d6+2=5 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 1:26:25 AM
The bard, in his anger, becomes very disgruntled at the whole situation. Barely hearing and understanding Ingrge, he nods somewhat and stays with the three 'victims'. He unsheathes his +2 shortsword. As best he can in the tight area provided, Flueterflam tries to jab his sword at the closest bug. He attempts to land the point of his blade square between the bug's pincers. (ooc: if hit, deals 5 points damage)
Olana d20+5=24 d20+5=23 d8+3=8 d6+1=4 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 1:49:22 AM
Pulling out both longsword and shortsword, the elf dives into the cavern and attacks one of the beetles attacking the injured dwarves, hoping her friends can best those rascals in the tunnel. Both swords plunge into the revolting thing in front of her ((12 dam if successful)). ((+5 net of +7 less 2 for two weapon penalty))
K'Nara d20+7=20 d10+2=11 d6=3 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 6:40:37 AM
"Great minds think alike, Ingrge..." the tall human commented loudly, then dashed forward into the larger space in which Dakar and Orgar were facing their horde of beetles.
K'Nara glanced around, squinting in the gloom of the cave and then launched her trademark dancing attack at one of the beetles threatening the injured dwarves. (OOC: hits AC 20 for 11hp damage plus 3hp fire damage.)
DM Jan (Beetles Attack) d20+2=7 d20+2=9 d20+2=19 d20+2=17 d10+3=10 d10+3=9 d20+2=19 d20+2=9 d10+3=5 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 12:27:26 PM
In the Tunnel -
Milo suddenly feels a whole lot more protected, and Bertram clobbers his beetle - taking out a sizable chunk with what looks like a rather mean axe for a man of the cloth. The torch lights up the tunnel floor. Ingrge's magic missiles whistle past and do fatal damage to Milo's beetle. It's cooked. Fluet stabs Figment's beetle, which punches a hole near it's head. It doesn't look pleased. Then Figment's spell takes effect.... both his and Bert's beetle kind of wobble and fall down with a thud. They are both still alive, though. Trouble is - Bertram starts to feel a little sleepy too. ((Bert - saving throw WILL on DC18 to negate))
In the Cavern -
Dakar kills another beetle with another mighty sweep - only to be met by another which steps up to the plate, and Orgars beetle looks decidedly unwell. Both K'Nara and Olana make good inroads into two of the beetles, who turn to meet their attackers. One beetle is over by the injured three dwarves and is attempting to pull one of the dwarves legs off in some kind of reverse schoolboy's revenge scenario.
The beetles in the cavern attack - Dakar's beetle snaps but misses. Olana's beetle stabs and bites savagely for 19 DAM. K'Nara's beetle whips around, managing to hit with one prong for 5 DAM.
((Status - 3 beetles dead, 2 sleeping but alive in tunnel, 1 beetle on Dakar, 1 beetle on Orgar, 1 beetle on Olana, 1 beetle on K'Nara, 1 beetle on injured dwarves))
Figment 3d4(4+4+3)+3=14 d4+1=5 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 12:42:37 PM
Smiling now that he knows his sleep magic will work on these things, the mage says "Kill those 2 on the floor, I put them to sleep!". He moves into the cavern if he can get past the dead beetles so he can stand upright again. With a flick of his wrist he fires 3 firey bolts and nails the beetle trying to dismember the dwarf, hoping he can kill it before it succeeds (14 DMG, NOTE: I don't have my book with me to tell you if I get 4 missles or still 3. I rolled the 4th in case.).
Milo 5d6(6+2+2+3+2)+1=16 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 2:29:14 PM
Stepping around the bug that Ingrge zapped, Milo strikes one of the sleeping bugs in an attempt to put the creature down for good. (OOC: Performed a Coup de Grace. Assuming that 16 hps doesn't kill the bug, it has to make a Fortitude save DC 26 to avoid death.)
Brother Bertram d20+8=15 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 3:45:51 PM
Bertram only has time to see the beetles before him go down before he realizes he too has been caught in the effects of the spell. Suddenly too tired to even glare at the mage, Bertram slumps to the floor and oblivion.
Ingrge d20+10=18 d4+4=5 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 7:33:50 PM
just stepping into the cavern and out of the way, Ingrge takes sight on what is going on in the cavern. Seeing Olanna in the jaws of one of the beasts, he sends a dagger flying toward the beetle (AC 18 for 5 points of damage) and grins as his daggers returns to his bandolier.
Dakar d20+12=31 d10+10=16 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 1:11:22 AM
The painmonger further lives up to his name, sidestepping the beetle that moves up to him by hopping onto the pile of corpses mounting before him. With a warcry he leaps off of it, driving his axe into the next one's flank (16 Damage, AC 31).
His song continues, and foam begins to gather at his mouth. His own blood has mingled with the ichor that covers his armor, but he seems to be ignorant of any pain that the gashes should be causing. Snarling, he looks to make sure his enemy is still before raising his axe again, preparing to strike forth once more.
K'Nara d20+7=17 d10+2=4 d6=5 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 7:00:53 AM
K'Nara continued to hack at the beetle before her, the pain of the slashing wound it inflicted on the female fighter causing her to lose her trademark elven-trained finesse (OOC: hits AC 17 for 4hp damage and 5hp additional fire damage.)
Olana d20+5=13 d20+5=22 d6+3=9 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 12:15:42 PM
Olana winces as the creature takes a rather nasty bite, and slashes back - slamming the shortsword into the beetle. (9 dam)
DM Jan (Beetlemania) d20+2=11 d20+2=14 d20+2=5 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 12:35:35 PM
In the Tunnel -
Milo leaps over and kills the sleeping beetle that was originally on Figment. Bertram's eyes suddenly snap awake - probably from the sound of magic missiles zapping back and forth. Only trouble is - to Bertram's Fluet's and Milo's horror - so does the other sleeping beetle!
In the Cavern -
Orgar manages to kill his beetle. Dakar bites hard into his beetle, but its still up. Figment's blast sends the beetle attacking the dwarves rolling over, but it's on its feet again - albeit with a fried back end. Olana's beetle croaks after hers and Ingrge's combined hit. K'Nara's beetle also bites the dust.
The beetles bite back -
Fluet - gets lunged at - but the creature misses. Dakar's beetle tries crunching his leg off - but misses. The enraged burned-rear beetle over by the dwarves takes a rush at K'Nara, but misses.
((Status - 7 beetles dead, 3 alive - 1 beetle on K'nara, 1 beetle on Dakar, 1 beetle in the tunnel))
Milo d20+5=8 d20+5=10 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 2:50:53 PM
Not wanting to see Bertram get attacked while on the ground, Milo interposes himself between the now awake beetle and Bertram, swinging his short sword wildly in an effort to get the creature to back off. (OOC: I'll say... missed both shots AC8 and AC10)
Flueterflam d20+5=25 d6+2=8 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 2:52:35 PM
The bard suddenly gets a blood thirsty look in his eyes at the beetle that tried to get him. He shouts loudly as he stabs at the beetle putting even more force behind his stab. (hit AC 25 damage 8)
Brother Bertram d20+6=26 d10+6=8 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 3:49:37 PM
Bertram wakes suddenly to the sound of combat. Looking about he sees Milo standing between him and a beetle, apparently trying to protect the dwarf. Bertram winces as Milo's attacks go wild. Pulling himself up to his knees he makes a decision, remembering Milo's injury. He grabs the back of Milo's belt jerking him out of the way as gently as possible with his left hand. His right lofts his mighty axe, its curving flight ends by smashing into the snapping beetle. The axe resides there with a satisfying crunching of the beetle's carapace. Bertram surges to his feet pulling free his axe. He reaches down a hand helping Milo to his feet. "Many thanks for your protection, Friend Milo. A brave companion is a comfort when facing the unknown." (OOC Damage is x3 for the crit so the total should be 24)
Dakar the Painmonger d20+12=32 d20+12=17 d10+10=12 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 4:58:01 PM
The painmonger snarls down at the beetle that bites at his leg and makes a similar chittering noise back at it. His eyes widen and fill with rage, his lip curves back into a snarl, and with a single stroke he moves forward as he swings, cleaving it from head to tail (AC 32, threat, AC 17, 36 Damage). The spikes catch leftover bits fo the insect as he moves through, and he exits the other side covered from head to toe in the beast's green ichor. Turning towards the clansman in need of aid he readies himself to charge into the fray once more.
Ingrge d20+10=20 d4+4=5 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 7:25:00 PM
Seeing K'narra still faced with one of our colorfully plated opponents and lashes back out with a thrown dagger. (AC 20 for 5 points)and watches as his dagger pulls itself out of his target and flies back to his hand.
Olana Thursday May 3rd, 2001 7:53:23 PM
Reckoning the others have pretty much got everything in hand, the elf moves quickly to the injured dwarves and begins to bind wounds - which will hopefully help when the healing takes place. She had wounds of her own, but seeing as the dwarfs were unable to fight back - then theirs were obviously worse.
K'Nara d20+7=25 d10+2=11 d6=4 Friday May 4th, 2001 7:02:00 AM
The discipline of the bladesong took hold of the human female once more and she danced out of the way of her opponent's slashing mandibles. With a twirl and a whoop, K'Nara pivoted and plunged her flaming blade deep into the beetle, causing the creature to look much like a bug impaled on a collector's pin...or maybe, perhaps, like some flaming shishkebab appetizer for a hill giant. (OOC: hits AC 25 for 11hp damage and 4hp fire damage.)
"Is that all of them? How are those dwarves? Is everyone okay..?" K'Nara asked as she attempted to pull her sunken blade out of the beetle she'd impaled.
DM Jan (Talons 10 Beetles 0 ) Friday May 4th, 2001 9:32:44 AM
As suddenly as it began - it's all over- and ten beetle corpses lie on the ground in various pieces. Orgar is breathing heavily, having taken a couple of wounds, and the three dwarves at one end of the cavern are in bad shape. Olana's binding stops the bleeding.
Milo Friday May 4th, 2001 10:55:46 AM
Running into the cavern where the others were fighting, Milo can see that the threat is over for the moment. After wiping the short sword and sheathing it, he looks around the room, assessing the damage to his friends and the dwarves. "Okay... who isn't injured?" Milo's normally cheerful voice has taken an unusually somber tone.
Figment d20+4=21 Friday May 4th, 2001 11:00:25 AM
The mage relaxes taking comfort in the fact that everyone survived and that he didn't have to expend any more magic. He takes the opportunity to look more closely at the bugs. He looks for runes or signs of magic. He also carefully examines the bug's anatomy in an attempt to see if it is really a baby from one of the big ones. He looks for signs that the rear poison shooter might be developing as well as body shape, legs, etc. (INT DC 21).
Flueterflam Friday May 4th, 2001 11:52:55 AM
A huge sigh comes out from the bard. He rushes into the cavern to make sure no one has gotten killed, broken, or otherwise gotten hurt in any way. "Everyone, I would just guess, but we shouldn't get too comfortable. That happened way too fast. I wouldn't doubt that something else might already be on it's way."
Dakar (Bull's strength) 2d8(6+7)+5=18 Friday May 4th, 2001 12:58:10 PM
The painmonger's breathing is shallow and rapid. A large gash that one of the beetles gave him in the early seconds of the combat still bleeds, trickling scarlet down his armor, seeping through the cracks and intermingling with the green ichor of the creatures. He raises his axe high and calls to his brethren "FOR DOMI! FOR THE CLANS" in ancient dwarvish. After a longer incantation he places his hand over his wound and chants a prayer to the battle god. "Blessed in battle, I ask for your healing grace to fight anew." His wound all but closes and he appears prepared to fight again. "Bertram. We must foster these dwarves back to somewhere safe."
Brother Bertram Friday May 4th, 2001 3:26:07 PM
Bertram joins the others watching for any signs of a fresh attack. At Dakar's words he eyes the dwarf for a moment then shrugs and scratches his beard. "I agree they do indeed need removed from here at once. You seem ready to fight anew, So I will escort the injured to the surface and you stay with the others and help with the healing of our party members. You seem eager for a good fight so perhaps you will get your wish." Bertram chuckles. Making sure that the other dwarves are able to walk Bertram starts back up the passage, his axe readied.
Ingrge d20+3=11 Sunday May 6th, 2001 9:26:47 PM
Cleaning his daggers, Ingrge too stoops to inspect these beetles. Looking closely, Ingrge shakes his head and then states, " I think we are dealing with the same species but these seem to be smaller almost like ant society, you know workers, soldiers, drones and Queen.
K'Nara d20=20 Monday May 7th, 2001 6:14:49 AM
"Ant colony..?" K'Nara echoed Ingrge's comparison, frowning as she strained to recall whatever she could about ants (OOC: made a voluntary Wilderness Lore check.) "If your premise is right, Ingrge...then we're gonna have one helluva job trying to track down all of these bugs--especially if they are reproducing on their own..!" Using Lucia as a torch, the leader of the Emerald Talons looks around the cavern.
"Milo, I think Olana needs healing," she said to the halfling, then gave a short laugh--apparently directed at herself, "I'm gonna need some time to get used to thinking of you as a cleric, my friend...you are just TOO able a rogue for me to remember it at present." K'Nara went over to the injured survivors of the beetle attack and knelt, inspecting the wounds inflicted by the bugs.
"You speak Common..?" she asked. "Can you tell me the circumstances of this attack? I mean--did these things attack you because they appeared hungry...or this particular area is one that they appear in most often...or did they seem to be trying to defend another, larger bug..?"
(OOC: if the dwarves fail to understand K'Nara, she'll doubtless ask Dakar or Bertram to ask such questions.)
Olana Monday May 7th, 2001 10:59:55 AM
Looking around at all the mess, the elf gives a sigh and shakes her head. As she hears Figment, K'Nara and Ingrge discuss the bugs, she raises an eyebrow. "You know - if we were attacked here, then maybe they were protecting a big one nearby."
DM Jan (Now what? Beetle soup?) Monday May 7th, 2001 11:19:35 AM
As some of the Talons check on the injured, Figment and Ingrge examine the beetles. These are tough little hombres, seemingly built for combat - a hard shell - a beautiful colour of green that glistens in the sword light, and a nasty set of 15" long, jagged edged prongs at the front that have a fine edge. They do not carry the scent of the larger ones, they have no runes, and their rear ends display no signs of an ability to shoot poison. They are of a darker green than the huge beetle that the dwarves had managed to capture, and a slightly more streamlined shape.
One of the dwarves coughs weakly and nods as K'Nara asks her questions.
"One of the big un's - further on - wanted to get it's eggs. Next thing - attacked by these." He then groans and falls into silence.
Orgar regards Dakar who is covered in beetlejuice beetlejuice beetlejuice (sorry - had to say that :) ) with a strange look. "You fought well, Oathbreaker," he says, " and you cousin," to Bertie. "You all fought well," he adds in common. "I beg you - can we get our brothers to safety before we venture further. I don't feel up to tackling a big one just yet. And maybe we need a plan."
Figment d20+9=23 Monday May 7th, 2001 12:20:47 PM
As the dwarf expesses concern for his injured he mentions "As long as you can keep track of the behemoth I'd say retreating would be OK for now. Does anyone have any more information about the already captured egg? Is it hatching? And what metal is it made of? Is it the type of metal found in this mine? Is it possible that these things are mining and processing the ore for you? Wouldn't that be something... We need to go see about this egg.".
As he looks over the beetle he mentions "These do not smack of magic, Ingrge - more of a summoning. Perhaps we should check on of these things for magic as we did the big one? But for now, lets not dispel any more of the big ones...".
The mage activates his own detect magic spell and examines the smaller beetles looking for direct magic or indrect (i.e. were these things summoned? DC 23 = +4 Int + 9 Spellcraft).
Milo d8+1=4 Monday May 7th, 2001 2:13:23 PM
Milo smiles understandingly at K'nara, "Think of me as a cleric with a misspent youth." The halfling winks at the warrior woman, and then strides purposefully over to Olana. "Excuse me for a moment Olana," with than, Milo places one hand lightly upon her wound, and prays quietly, "Alemi, show this good woman your healing touch, and lighten the burden of this wound." (OOC: Dropped protection from evil for Cure light wounds: 4 hps)
A warm ruby light seems to issue from Milo's outstretched hand, though its effects upon her wound are but partial. Looking up into Olana's eyes Milo smiles, "Besides, its not every day I get to lay hands upon such a beauty." With that, the halfling seems to blush, though its hard to tell in the dim light.
Brother Bertram Monday May 7th, 2001 8:21:56 PM
Bertram puts away his axe and moves over to the weak dwarf that lies injured and picks him up gently. "Be strong, Brother. We will have you out of here in no time. You fought bravely and Domi will be proud of your valiant efforts." Bertram moves down the hallway towards the entrance to the mine.
Ingrge Monday May 7th, 2001 9:49:19 PM
Hmm, I would agree Figment, that these are not a magical beast, at least not overtly. As to being summoned, I can't believe they would stay after such without reason.
Dakar Monday May 7th, 2001 11:36:59 PM
Dakar joins the clansmen in stretegically withdrawing from the region, bringing up the rear of the column. As he does so he graps one of the dead beetles in passing. toting it along with him with ease. "Perhaps studying the anatomy of these things will lend to their defeat. If they have a soft spot then we may crack them open like the soft-underbelly of a crab."
K'Nara Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:04:00 AM
The tall human woman nodded.
"We have to get the miners to safety first," K'Nara agreed, "They shouldn't have to ge facing this kind of danger. Come on, Talons--let's help evacuate." The tall human woman helped to move the injured dwarves back to the relative safety of the other, upper caverns even though she, too, had been slightly injured.
Olana Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:02:09 AM
Olana gives Milo a warm smile, and says - "Thank you Milo - I feel a little better now. That was a rather nasty bite that creature gave me." The elf then ponders the corpses for a moment. "I reckon these pincer things might make good daggers," she says, wondering aloud. Taking a knife she tries to extract some of the pincers from the dead beetles.
DM Jan (Back to base) Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:20:39 AM
The cavern is evacuated, and the Talons help the injured back to the safety of clan headquarters.
Orgar says he doesn't know much about the metal eggs, but the smithys might. Both Figment's skills and Ingrge's observations suggest that there isn't anything magical about these smaller beetles, no summonings no magic aura whatsoever. So they were either placed there physically, or maybe they hatched from something.
Helga meets up with the group as they approach the main dwelling cavern. To Dakar, she says sternly - "You're not bringing that thing in here. Put it with the live one. We don't want to frighten everyone, or lead others of its kind here." She does seem interested in examining it though.
Olana manages to acquire 2 pairs of pincers, which do separate into 4 sharp blades about a foot long.
The female head of the clan approaches K'Nara. "It looks like you had a tough fight," she says. "Thank you for saving our brothers who ran off on some foolish errand straight into danger against my wishes." Looking around at everyone, she adds - "We will organise food, and help with binding your wounds and cleaning you up. My thanks once more. You are very brave. While you were down there - we have been working on a map that shows where we think the main infestations are." The soup and ale carts arrive shortly afterwards.
Flueterflam d20=19 Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:43:57 AM
Fluet follows the group back in silence. He appears rather occupied with his own thoughts. He also keeps an eye out for anything that may be watching them on the way back. (voluntary PER DC 19)
As they settle in temporarily to eat and recover, the bard sits motionless. He does not eat. He does not talk to anyone. Every so often, his gaze travels around to members of his group. He thinks about all the wonderful things that have been happening lately. Then Fluet's mind comes back to himself, the basic lack of anything great or out of the ordinary.
In his daydreaming, the youth starts to nod off slightly.
Figment d20+4=16 Tuesday May 8th, 2001 12:00:32 PM
The mage finds the egg and the Smithey's straightaway, wanting to find out everything he can before having to deal with these things head on. When he returns he looks at the maps and eats whatever is brought. (Do we get to see the map?).
He offers a couple of observations. "I think these smaller beetles come from a different origin than the big ones. They do not appear to be magical and definitely seem to operate with animal intelligence and purpose. I suppose it is possible that the bigger ones were created from these smaller ones somehow. We should keep an eye on the big beetle whose runes we removed to see if it changes at all now that it has been 'neutered'. Also, I think it should be pretty easy to lay traps for these smaller ones. We could attract them and then kill them once they are snared. Perhaps an oily fire trap or something. We could also cave in a section of a tunnel to trap them. Then we could simply wait and suffocate them. Lots of things like that we could do...". The mage tries to remember any stories or referrences to beetles this large from his days in school (Int check DC 16).
Figment Tuesday May 8th, 2001 12:03:12 PM
"And we should also have the bug bodies checked to see if any of them are male/female and if they have any reproduction capability since it appears the big ones do not necessarily spawn the smaller ones.".
Dakar Tuesday May 8th, 2001 7:18:38 PM
The dwarf nods and moves to where the other bug is contained, staying silent to Helga. When he returns he looks over the map. "Is there any pattern to their infestation? Do they follow ore lodes?" he asked the female clansdwarf.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 8th, 2001 9:02:18 PM
Bertram carried his wounded comrade silently, watching for any attack. He listened to the others as they discussed the horrific bugs and how best to assail them.
Ingrge Tuesday May 8th, 2001 9:20:49 PM
Hmm now just because the little ones don't radiate magic doesnt mean they are not the same species. I still think that the bigger ones are queen types and the smaller ones are their spawn. It seems that the smaller ones are susptible to normal attack. Turning to Helga, Is this also true of the larger beatles?
Olana Wednesday May 9th, 2001 1:14:40 AM
Olana thanks the dwarves for their hospitality and tucks in to a bowl of soup. She then checks her wound and gives a sigh. Milo's spell had closed it - but it still looked a swollen angry red. "If anyone has any healing left, I'd be grateful," she asks. "I get the feeling this isn't going to be my only wound while we're here." She also asks Helga if the clan can spare some cloth - which she will tear into strips and attempt to wrap one end of the beetle pincers hopefully creating something that could be held and one end, and be very sharp at the other. Though her hands are busy, her ears are listening as the others discuss what they plan to do.
DM Jan ((OOC)) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 1:44:22 AM
((Map should be in your mailboxes as of 11pm pacific May 8. Scream via email if you don't have it.))
Milo Wednesday May 9th, 2001 3:36:47 AM
Silent as they return, Milo is thankful for the food and drink the dwarves provide. Looking at his own angry wound, he sighs, then turning back to Olana, lays his hand gently upon her once more and prays silently. (OOC: Dumping Guidance and Resistance for Cure Minor Wounds. 2 more hps for Olana.)
That done he turns to Bertram, "Does channeling your god's blessings sap the energy out of ya, like it does me?" Milo smiles weakly.
K'Nara Wednesday May 9th, 2001 5:59:41 AM
The human bladesinger picked up the map Helga made and inspected it, turning the map this way and that as she squinted at it.
"Hmmm...that reminds me..." K'Nara mumbled to herself, "I've got to remember to practice scribing myself...I'd like to have extra spells on scrolls handy in case I need 'em." She sighed and put the map down. "Helga makes better maps than me, this I know." The female fighter/sorcerer glanced at Olana, seeing Milo invoke more curative magic for her. Experience told the redhead that Olana still needed a significant amount of healing, however. (OOC: by my reckoning, our lovely ranger is still down by at least 13hp...which is likely about one-quarter of her overall total HP.)
"Do either of you have another healing spell, Dakar...Bertram..?" K'Nara asked the other two clerics. "Olana took a very nasty hit from the beetles she fought."
DM Jan (Plans plans plans) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 11:11:14 AM
Figment's trip to the smithy proves... interesting. As he arrives, he finds two dwarves wearing tough leather aprons having a big argument.
".... bad breath?? The next think tha'll be telling me - that I smell too!" "Well ya do!" "Well why didn't ya say so before?? Not that ah care any!" "Er... I dunno -"
They both stop abruptly as the mage approaches, obviously not wanting to continue with him present. It's very hot here, although out of the 4 furnaces, only one is currently active. At Figment's enquiries about the egg, both dwarves point to a smelting cup. "We melted it down - it's beautiful stuff, almost pure - like the beast 'as taken all the rough out. If we could get more of it - we wanna try and make a weapon, test it for strength and wotnot. It's not like we have anythin' else ta do at the moment."
Elsewhere in the cavern, Milo finds out what it's like to actually heal someone, and the energy it takes.
As strategy is discussed among the party and the map is examined, the following is discovered -
- At Dakar's question, Helga says that the X's on the map (where they presume the remaining big beetles are - are also sites of rich ore.
- The smaller beetles do appear to succomb to ordinary physical attacks, as do the larger ones. Orgar tells how it took 12 of his brothers to take down the one they dragged outside to the disgust of the soldiers camped there. As for the big one currently captured - "We got lucky - lured it through the wider tunnels by dropping mined ore and dropped that rock on it. Don't know what them runes are for. Work of a madman. No doubt about it."
- There is nothing to suggest the small ones breed - but then there's nothing to suggest they don't either.
- Both Fluet and Bertram saw no signs of further attacks or ambush as they headed back. Although there was a slight smell coming from one of the connecting larger tunnels.
-Olana manages to fashion 4 daggers out of the pincers. There's no telling how strong they will be, but they're definitely sharp, and seem well balanced for throwing.
Figment Wednesday May 9th, 2001 1:32:12 PM
The mage walks back to the group and the clan leader. "Helga, do any of your people know if the big beetles showed up first and then the small ones, or did they show up at the same time?".
To everyone he says "Interesting situation we have here. The big ones apparently eat the ore, metabolize the rock portion, and then produce pure metal as excrement in the shape of eggs. The smithies would like to secure another egg so that they will have enough metal to forge a weapon. Then they can test just how good the metal is. I would be willing to bet that the captured beetle no longer has this ability since we just removed the runes from it. Helga, if we could control the big beetles you could have them do the mining for you. Does anyone know what the smaller ones eat? What is their source of food? Do they eat ore too? How do they survive?".
Flueterflam Wednesday May 9th, 2001 5:11:56 PM
The bard suddenly looks up and around at everyone in the group. He appears to have thought of something, then blurts out loudly enough for most to hear him, "You guys don't think that this has anything to do with that wizard from the city? Do you? I was just thinking how strange it is that he was obsessed with those beetles and how the beetles seem to be following us wherever we go.....I mean, this can't be any coincidence that we keep falling into encounters with green beetles."
Fluet looks around for reactions from his peers, apparently waiting to see what everyone else thinks.
Ingrge Wednesday May 9th, 2001 6:01:20 PM
Shaken out of his reverie by Fluet's comments, Ingrge shakes his head slowly, but with a smile on his face. "Fluet my friend, I would almost guarantee it." Perhaps we should try to subdue and capture at least one of the big beetles then, so that the dwarves here might be able to procure more of this strange metal.
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 9th, 2001 8:22:15 PM
Bertram is helping the injured dwarf but does nod a quick affirmation to K'nara as he works.
Milo Wednesday May 9th, 2001 11:36:22 PM
Sitting with his back to a wall, Milo attempts to pay attention to the conversations around him, but soon finds himself nodding off into sleep.
K'Nara Thursday May 10th, 2001 6:11:57 AM
The tall human bladesinger nodded at Flueterflam.
"Very good conclusion, bard." she said, eyeing him with a bit of alarm, since their specific instructions from Parnoth and his head lackey, Mop, already said that the bug-obsessed wizard was the one who managed to infest these tunnels with...something. At that time, the green dragon was not aware (or at least had not mentioned being aware) that the infestation was of the giant beetles that the Talons found. K'Nara had thought that her entire party had already suspected that the late wizard was siccing his magicked bugs on these dwarves, but apparently Fluet was only just coming to this conclusion.
She'd have to remember to ask either Dakar or Brother Bertram...or maybe even Milo, now that he was turning to the clerical way of life...about the possibility that the normally-very-quick-on-the-uptake bard may have contracted some kind of brain fever or taken a rather hard knock on the head or something...
However, for now, K'Nara turned her attention back to the map, ruminating on the suggestions by Figment.
"Maybe we can take a page from these dwarves' book and use their tactic to insure that when we face the giant beetles (as opposed to the smaller ones,) they will be where WE want them..." K'Nara mused, then turned to Helga, "...is there any more of this ore that we could use as bait for the giant beetles..?"
Olana Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:01:42 PM
"Anyone need a spare dagger?" asks the elf. "Looks like they might be good for throwing, and better these than throwing something we already have and lose it." She then goes to sit alongside the dwarves being patched up by Bertram, as he plays doctor on duty, awaiting her turn. "So -" she asks, "Are we going to catch them? That should be interesting."
DM Jan (To Catch a Bug) Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:17:11 PM
As the Talons rest, recuperate and plan their next move, Helga and Orgar both, ponder the questions set to them.
"We're not sure which came first. The wizard arrived. He had papers from Parnoth, or at least thats what they looked like. "He stayed two days and then left. About 10 days later we came upon a tunnel that we didn't dig. Thats when we first saw the little mean ones. But then we found a big one too. How they got there we don't know."
Orgar clears his throat. "Only the big 'uns seem attracted to the ore. What feeds the smaller ones we don't know. Maybe they don't eat. Who knows. Maybe the big 'uns feed them. Scratching his beard, he adds - "If you're fer catching another big 'un. Then we need the brothers to suspend another rock somewhere." He looks at the map.
Figment Thursday May 10th, 2001 1:23:45 PM
The mage offers "You could also feed some more ore to the one you have captured and see if it can still produce. Might be nice to know. So then these big ones are following the veigns of metal into the earth - and you don't even have to dig. I wonder if the little ones are collecting the eggs and taking them somewhere. I suppose those things could have made a bunch of eggs by now.".
The mage begins to look over the map. "Seems like we could block off one of the main tunnels and then clean out the other one. That way we can't be surounded."
Flueterflam Thursday May 10th, 2001 2:10:42 PM
The bard doesn't appear to notice that he had basically said the obvious. He appears to be very disoriented without the sun. In addition, Fluet really looks like he needs sleep.
Milo Thursday May 10th, 2001 2:29:52 PM
Milo continues to sleep peacefully, sitting on the floor, leaning against the cool stone wall.
Dakar Thursday May 10th, 2001 4:24:34 PM
"Why can't we simply slay a big one? These things bleed, do they not?" He still remains covered in green ichor, and it is beginning to pool at the floor where he stands. "They bleed, and they die. Everything has a weakness. If it is to small to cleave with my axe... well." Dakar extends a gauntleted fist, and gestures with the long spike attached to the end of it. "These were crafted for ripping out the eyes of goblins. But bugs are green as well."
Brother Bertram Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:08:31 PM
Bertram looks up at the gore-spattered dwarf and says mildly, "Lets just not forget that we bleed also". He continues dressing wounds as best he can.
Brother Bertram 2d8(7+8)+5=20 Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:59:04 PM
Satisfied that the dwarven miner was going to be okay, Bertram turns to Olana. Clucking his tongue as he views her wounds he murmurs a prayer over her wounds, his hands moving as he prays. Suddenly new skin grafts over open cuts, bruising diminishes instantly, and Olana feels a small burst of energy surge through her. Bertram examines each of her wounds looking for any reddening around the areas suggestive of poisons. (OOC Cure Moderate)
K'Nara Friday May 11th, 2001 6:38:40 AM
"Not capturing beetles, Orgar," the woman warrior shook her red head, "No, we will be killing them...unless there's some way we can be assured that you can control them without being hurt. Since we don't know that--and I doubt that there's any in your clan who'd wish to try that, anyhow--we'd be laying a trail in order to lure the larger bugs into specific positions." K'Nara considered Figment's newest suggestion and grinned.
"Hmmm...blocking off a tunnel...that would work, too--assuming that these beetles can't tunnel very fast." She looked over the map Helga made. "How about we try to take on this one here...?" K'Nara pointed to the X'd cave that was northernmost on the map. "We could block off the other tunnels and see what that particular one is up to."
Olana Friday May 11th, 2001 10:57:18 AM
"Oooh!" says the elf, bouncing on her toes. "I feel so much better now. Thank you. Thank you very much!" She gives Bertram a bow and a warm smile. Noticing Milo fast asleep, she makes a mental note to have a word with him when he wakes up. Then she claps Fluet on the shoulder and gives him a grin before joining the others looking at the map. She asks Helga and Orgar - "Does the map show all the tunnels? or just the main ones?"
DM Jan Friday May 11th, 2001 11:11:27 AM
Helga gives Figment a wry grin. "They might be digging tunnels for us - but we can't get at the ore. We have a small stock of ore left. It might be better if we used that as a lure for those we haven't captured. I'm for killing the lot of them. If we don't get back into production soon - I'm worried that Parnoth may send in those guards you brought with you."
Orgar is scratching his beard and pondering all that is being said. Then he points a stubby finger at the map. "We could try the north east, but a've been wondering. You see down here? To the south? If we already got rid of all the small ones - then there's only a big 'un to worry about. The one in the north passage - I dunno - could be riddled with the beggers." At Olana's question he answers - "These are just the main ones - the tunnels big enough for the large beetles to pass. They can't get through the smaller tunnels - but the little 'uns can, and the small tunnels connect everywhere.
Figment Friday May 11th, 2001 11:37:41 AM
The mage shrugs his shoulders at everyone's remarks about killing the beetles. "It just seems to me that the big ones are doing you a favor if they are mining for you. If you let them be and they continued you could save yourself a lot of work. If you kill all the little ones and make sure no new ones arrive then I think you might do yourself some good - provided the big ones only are interested in eating ore. On another note: I don't think anyone knows about the eggs on the outside. If you kill off the bugs and we discover more of them you might do well to keep it that way.".
As they plan their strategy the mage mentions. "I'd say lets begin with the easier tunnel because that way we'll get a better look at these things before taking on the largest group of them.". The mage waits for the decision.
Milo Friday May 11th, 2001 7:57:37 PM
"ZZZZZZZzzzzz.... ZZZZZZzzzzzz..."
Brother Bertram Friday May 11th, 2001 10:13:01 PM
Bertram listened and pondered the discussion. "One thing we need to do is name these tunnels in some way that we all agree on so we can identify each quickly. Then we need to post a sentinel at the opening that is closest to the surface and safety. Perhaps we can get some of our dwarven brothers to do this. They could then let us know whats happening at thier station. We need to know whenever there is enemy movement and eliminate it in that area of the mines. If not we are just randomly killing these creatures without any assurances that they are completely gone. Thus we were taught at the temple and tis a good, sound strategy." Bertram awaits further discussion and checks his axe for any damage from the last battle.
Ingrge Sunday May 13th, 2001 10:10:00 AM
The only reason I suggested capturing another big one is that if they are producing a new metal that is good for producing weapons, then... Ingrge shrugs, and finishes with, it was just a thought. Ingrge looks around at his group to see if there is any one obviously still in need of healing after the clerics magics are used up.
K'Nara Monday May 14th, 2001 5:50:28 AM
"That's a very good point, there, Orgar," K'Nara agreed, nodding, "I think maybe you're right--that particular bug should be the first one that we go after." The leader of the Tines turned to Figment.
"The dwarves here were doing fine BEFORE the beetle infestation, Figment," she pointed out, "If--while we are fighting--you can come up with a way for them to be able to safely control the giant bugs, then we can propose that alternative to Helga...otherwise we'll just be killing them. Even the giant ones are dangerous--those ARE the ones that squirt that very venomous poison, after all." The human bladesinger frowned in concentration.
"I don't think we have to name the tunnels...yet...Brother Bertram." K'Nara told the cleric. "We have only three distinct areas to deal with--so far, that is. IF it gets more complex than that, then we'll have to think of something. Until then, though--let's get organized and find a way to track the beetle that's headquartered in the southernmost cave, eh?"
Olana Monday May 14th, 2001 10:46:43 AM
The elf nods at K'Nara. "Well - I'm ready," she says with conviction, and then goes to wake Milo and Fluet with a gentle shake of the shoulder.
DM Jan (Plans and Plots) Monday May 14th, 2001 10:59:40 AM
"Alright," says Helga. "If you're going into the south passage again, I'll post sentries in and around the north, then we know if any of the small ones are coming to hinder you." With that she strides off, calling out to some of the brothers. Orgar checks his axe and throws it on his back. "Might as well get this over with," he announces with a sharp yank on his beard. To Bertram he says - "North and South laddie, North and South - that's all we need to know." He then sets off, heading for the South Passage once more.
Metal Eating Monster #1
Figment Monday May 14th, 2001 11:17:07 AM
The mage prepares for battle pondering how he might go about controlling the beasties. "I understand that the dwarves are the best miners and weapon smiths in the Wold. But I see no reason we couldn't help make thier life easier. As far as battle plans go, I think we should focus on the smaller ones first. The big ones seem to be busy eating and mining for the time being. I doubt they'll bother us if we dont bother them. The smaller ones appear to be the aggressive ones.". Before he turns and heads out, he asks Orgar a question "Have any of the large beetles ever come out of the tunnels or have your encounters with them been down where they are digging - except the one you lured out that is?".
Flueterflam Monday May 14th, 2001 12:03:14 PM
Fluet jumps as Olana shakes him. He looks around surprisedly. "huh?" He calms down then. "Oh, I didn't realize I dozed off. I think I'm just too stressed out right now." He smiles weakly and looks around to assess what ever plans the group will be up to next. "Are we going somewhere yet?"
Dakar Monday May 14th, 2001 12:42:25 PM
Dakar claps Orgar on the back. "That's the way to settle things. I shall accompany you." Dakar too, hefts his axe and gets ready to move out. "It matters not to me from whence the beetles come. It only matters that they bleed and die. The more we talk the heavier under siege we may become."
Milo Monday May 14th, 2001 1:13:44 PM
Milo's eyes sorta half open when Olana touches him. Looking up at her with a glazed expression, he smiles dreamily, "Hmmm... beautiful elf woman..." Then he wakes, and his eyes snap open wide with realization, and the halfling blushes, "Um.... time to go?" He smiles weakly.
Ingrge Monday May 14th, 2001 10:38:08 PM
Umm I suppose it would be too much to ask that we do this in the morning or at least a little later when we can be at fullspell strength?
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 15th, 2001 12:20:39 AM
Hearing Ingrge's query Bertram snorts and rolls his eyes heavenward. "And miss all this glory BEFORE we sleep?" Still chuckling Bertram grips his axe and prepares to follow where he is ordered.
K'Nara Tuesday May 15th, 2001 6:12:40 AM
Hearing Ingrge's words, the tall human woman spun around and glanced sharply at him and then at Figment.
"Just how much of your magic did you use already?" K'Nara asked, frowning because she hadn't thought to ask this before. "We rested before taking on those nasty smaller bugs...and--if I remember correctly--there's a couple of, uh, books that you and Figment should try to read before whatever benefit they may have to your spellcasting ability expires. However, if you used a lot of magic in that last battle, then we probably ought to rest and recover the spells..."
Figment Tuesday May 15th, 2001 12:04:35 PM
The mage smiles "K'Nara, the books of which you speak will require intense uninterrupted study for 2 weeks. I don't think I see a window of time that large in our future. On the other hand, I am about at 60% of my spells left. That's probably enough for one or two battles like the one we just had - but no more. Two would be pushing it. I could see us waiting to replentish but I can continue if you want to make progress today. I'm more concerned about the healers magic than I am mine at this point. Those things can do major damage in a short amount of time.". The mage waits for her decision.
Olana Tuesday May 15th, 2001 7:49:06 PM
"Why thank you," says Olana to Milo, beaming at the compliment. In answer to Milo's and Fluet's question she shrugs her shoulders. "I thought we were ready - but I think our mages are worried about their spells." She waits, looking between her comrades until they've figured out what's best.
DM Jan (You put your left dwarf in, your left dwarf out.....) Tuesday May 15th, 2001 8:03:45 PM
Orgar grinds to a halt and turns around. Not used to being around mages and their need for study, he looks incredulously at Dakar and Bertram. "Well are we going? Or aren't we?" ((OOC - surface time is currently 3pm in the afternoon - 8 hours of rest will be needed to replenish spells, and no doubt some diplomatic effort to cool off the battle hungry little fellas.))
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:30:44 PM
Bertram raised his hands placatingly. "Cousin Orgar. I can assure you we will be looking forward to helping you in the upcoming battle. However, rest would be good especially for each of our students of the arcane lore, and I as well need to pray to Domi to replenish my healing powers. I would hate to see something happen to one of us because we rushed into a battle without preparation. Life is precious even to a Priest of the God of War, Cousin."
Dakar Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:56:39 PM
"If none of the rest of you will go, then I must. I cannot sit by and watch my brethren die. It is a code I will not violate." He turns to K'nara. "Of this, I know you will object. Know that my duty is always first to my god and second to my people. My duty to the Talons and the Tines is third, and I am ready to battle fresh again. If you are resting, I will fight, and rejoin you when you are ready to fight again. The power of my axe is greater than the power of my spells, and my brothers will need healing."
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 16th, 2001 10:33:02 PM
Bertram looks to Dakar and replies mildly. "I think the mine is safe for tonight, Brother. Our Cousins have guards posted and they will wait for the morn I am sure. So the only life in danger is the one that rushes in unaided. Why dont we rest tonight and tomorrow go smash the forces that have taken over these tunnels?"
Figment Thursday May 17th, 2001 12:08:31 AM
The mage says nothing - and tries not to look too frustrated at the eager dwarf.
Olana Thursday May 17th, 2001 12:23:25 AM
"Dakar, please," says the elf. "If you venture out on your own and get killed now, your bretheren will sorely miss your axe as they battle with these horrible things, and so will we. Maybe we can ask Helga to hold off on her scouts and make sure everyone is safe here. Don't you have spells to replenish too?"
Milo Thursday May 17th, 2001 4:06:40 AM
Hearing Dakar's declarations, Milo finds himself completely beside... himself... Not knowing anything pithy to say at this moment, he sits there in mute disbelief.
K'Nara Thursday May 17th, 2001 5:58:55 AM
"I would rather be certain that our spellcasters have all their available power at their disposal--especially those healing spells." K'Nara said. "Remember--Olana took a LOT of damage that required spells from more than just one cleric." The tall human woman turned to Orgar.
"I'd have my group rest and recover, please--the idea of posting lookouts seems a sound one. If your clanspeople can let us know if there's trouble while we are trying to rest, we will cut short our recuperation and go to the site of battle. Until then, though--it is a wise warrior who marshalls all the assets available to them for an upcoming combat...and we Talons set a great store in the asset of having fully-powered spellcasters."
DM Jan Thursday May 17th, 2001 9:30:33 PM
Orgar scratches his beard for a moment. "Well - if you put it THAT way." He re-shoulders his axe. "I'll let Helga know whats going on. Sentries we can post easily enough." On his way past Dakar he adds - "If you're fer want of something to do Oathbreaker, you can always relieve Belgad's watch on that captured beetle. He'll be as drunk as a skunk by now anyway." Orgar shuffles off in the same direction Helga went, muttering something about spellcasters, and downright peculiar.
Figment Friday May 18th, 2001 12:31:25 AM
The mage retires for the evening wherever the dwarves put him up, sleeps, and then replentishes his spells.
K'Nara Friday May 18th, 2001 6:16:07 AM
The tall human bladesinger rubbed idly at her own wound, forgotten (until now) in her concern for those of the party with a less-hardy constitution. (OOC: K'Nara is still suffering from that minor 5hp wound inflicted on her by a beetle.)
"Any who have a skill in Healing...I'd appreciate getting this looked at." K'Nara said out loud, indicating the nasty gash in her lower leg. "I don't need any magical stuff on it--unless there's an extra Cure spell floating around. Binding it should do okay."
Milo Friday May 18th, 2001 11:30:26 AM
Suddenly realizing that he gets to sleep after all, Milo looks up at Olana, winks... "See you in my dreams." He then closes his eyes and drifts off once again to peaceful slumber. To anyone looking, it is apparent that the diminutive rogue has neglected his own wound (8hp) taken from an ambushing bug.
Olana Friday May 18th, 2001 1:19:21 PM
The elf helps out with wound binding and fresh dressings on all that need it before settling cross-legged into the elven form of rest for a little while. After that, she will check her weapons, sharpening and repairing where required.
Brother Bertram d8+5=10 Friday May 18th, 2001 9:46:00 PM
Bertram moves over to K'Nara and gently peels back the bandage. Murmuring a simple prayer he lays his hand upon the wound. As his hands cross the jagged edges of the wound, they begin smoothing, flesh knits, and muscle grows back together. Soon it is impossible to tell there was a wound, except for the fact that the skin appeared to be newly grown. Smiling at K'Nara, Bertram bows and moves back to where he was preparing for sleep. Laying his axe by his side he closes his eyes and and listens to the others as he waits for slumber to come.
Flueterflam Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:56:39 AM
The bard feels uncomfortable not having much to do. To K'nara, "Is there anything that you'd like me to do? I feel like I haven't really been doing much lately for us. For some reason, I've felt very distant lately. But, now I'd like to actually do something. So, basically, if you can think of anything..." a giant yawn takes hold of the bard, "...just let me know." Fluet smiles tiredly, and begins to nod off slightly again.
DM Jan Saturday May 19th, 2001 1:18:01 AM
Everyone gets a decent rest in the cavern(those injured get half a hp per level back by resting). There are no interruptions, so it's safe to say that the beetles are busy going about their own business deep in the mine. After approximately 8 hours - the soup and bread truck rolls round, closely followed by the ale truck.
Ingrge (Here we come to save the day.....) Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:41:23 PM
Grinning and with a lilt in his voice not heard in a while, Ingrge greets you all with, "Good morning everyone, I hope everyone had pleasant dreams, from the sound of things our little friend, motioning to Milo, did." I think a quick bite and chat about how we want to proceed might be in order before we go wading in beetle blood.
Dakar Saturday May 19th, 2001 3:12:10 PM
"It's not morning. It's about 2 or 3 am surface time. Since you had such a long and exhaustive 9 hour day yesterday I suppose you wouldn't have realized that." Dakar totes his axe up upon his shoulder, mumblins something about "more lazy than a pit goblin" in dwarvish beneath hii breath.
Brother Bertram Saturday May 19th, 2001 7:08:02 PM
Bertram listens to the exchange between Ingrge and Dakar and then turns to Ingrge with a grin and a twinkle in his eye. "Your race is indeed a lazy lot, Friend Ingrge. Imagine wanting to sleep and be fresh for the attack rather than rushing in full of piss and vinegar. Ahh how do you live with yourselves? Brother Dakar how have you managed to stay alive with these people that won't rush into battle without preparation? I must pray for deliverance from the evils of sound planning." Bertram snorts loudly and winks at Ingrge and checks his equipment.
Figment Saturday May 19th, 2001 11:23:36 PM
The mage smiles and stands ready having replentished his spells. Seeing that Dakar is in good spirits he smiles and says "Good morning. I would say this timetable suits us well. There will come a time to leave this place, and when it does, 2 or 3 AM would be a good time to hit the surface.". He eats the food provided by the dwarves and thanks them - making sure not to make any comments about how poorly they cook.
K'Nara Monday May 21st, 2001 6:55:16 AM
By the time the victuals came trundling by, the human bladesinger had already been up and just about finished with her daily practice session via the magic ring that linked her to Greymaulkin. She was grinning from ear to ear because--for once--K'Nara had awoken him from slumber due to the earliness of the hour...and he had been--to put it mildly--MOST surprised.
"Let's stoke up and then go get that thing." the tall redhead greeted the rest of the group over breakfast. "Oh...Figment...did you get any, ahhhhh...revelations as to how to control these things? Or does it look like we're just going to have to kill them and be done with it..?" K'Nara's appetite didn't suffer from the topic of grisly death or upcoming battle as she heartily ate of the (in her humble opinion) fine Dwarven food.
Figment d20=16 Monday May 21st, 2001 9:28:43 AM
The mage spends some of his preparation time thinking about how he might control the big bugs so he can answer the warrior woman's question. (DC 38 = 16 + 4 Int + 9 Arcana + 9 Spellcraft)
Milo Monday May 21st, 2001 10:37:40 AM
At Ingrge's pronouncement, Milo blushes a deep crimson, and then without further ado, kneels next to the cavern wall and prays silently to Alemi for a half hour before opening the old prayerbook and spending another half hour in silent contemplation of his diety. That done, he joins his friends for breakfast, ready to face whatever challenges the day... or morning may show him.
Olana Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:15:33 AM
The elf helps herself to some soup, then double checks her weapon placement. Her eyes flit to Ingrge's after Dakar's comment, breaking a smile as the dwarf Bertram breaks the ice. "Dakar, you're so grumpy of an early morning," she says with a grin. She asks K'Nara if the battle order will be the same as before. "If it is - I'd better get up front," she says. "Showtime," she whispers to Fluet who looks to be nodding off again.
DM Jan (We're off to see the beetle.....) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:27:38 AM
Orgar arrives as the Talons complete their final preparations. Taking a large mug of ale, he drains it dry and belches loudly. he looks eager to be off and sets off down the tunnel, waiting till everyone else catches up. "I'm looking forward to this," he says, giving out another large belch that seems to reverberate down the tunnel.
Other than what has already been discovered and evaluated, Figment's deliberations come upon nothing new. The spells the mad wizard used definitely seem to focus on some alchemic transformation of the metal - but why? What's so special about it?
As for the creatures themselves - they appear larger versions of much smaller critters found underfoot - they're beetles, with a plain but effective method of protection and attack, just like nature provided.
K'Nara Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:35:35 AM
K'Nara finished her meal, belched loudly, then considered Olana's question.
"Hmm...yes, the same battle order, Olana," the human bladesinger nodded, "And everyone should remember the 'battle buddy' system, hmmm--especially in regards to our healers...these beetles pack a wallop and we will DEFinitely need all the healing magic we can get..!" After everyone is in the proper marching order, the leader of the Emerald Talons gave the order to move out.
Ingrge Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 7:36:39 AM
Looking between Dakar and then Bertram, Ingrge shakes his head and then grins. Actually, 2 or 3 A.M. IS morning and if you wnant to go ahead ahead and tackle those beasties like you did just after we met you go ahead, but I won't guarantee I will have anything left to aid you when you need it this time. It is said, by one of your kin I believe, that foolish is the warrior who turns down aid or weapons when they are at hand and likely needed.
K'narra, I think that perhaps when we get to the cavern that we should reconoiter the situation quickly and then Figment and I should do our thing. Then you more doughty folk can head in with us doing additional support work.
Figment d20=18 Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 12:08:31 PM
The mage smiles at Ingrge's assessment of the upcoming battle. "We'll soften them up a bit and then you guys can go in and mop up. And don't worry Dakar, ther will be plenty of mopping up to do so you won't fell ripped off...".
"K'Nara, as I was saying yesterday, this mage used some kind of magic and combined it with a type of alchemic method to produce the large beetles. I would be willing to bet that the little beetles were placed here to kill the dwarves and the big ones are here to mine ore. I would also bet that the little ones are picking up the eggs of pure metal and placing them somewhere. I bet we find scads of them in a location in one or both tunnels. I strongly suspect that all we have to do is kill the little ones and the big ones will mine away and never bother anyone as long as they don't feel threatened. I have a suggestion on how we could deal with the big ones after the smaller ones are gone. We can set up some sort of portable cage contraption which I can help with as I have architectural experience. After we kill the smaller ones we simply erect the bars in the tunnel - maybe several layers of them. We can also design traps for the beasties should they ever decide to eat more than ore - or perhaps find the end of the ore vein. That way we could prevent any additional loss of life for the dwarves. I would also be willing to bet that the smithies discover that the pure metal is far better than anything the dwarves have been able to produce to this point from this mine - no offense intended Orgar. I would make the following suggestion: Kill the small ones, search the tunnels for a potential egg stash, and leave the big one for another day. We will coming up on it's backside and it would be wise to let Ingrge and I reload spells and blast it from a distance if we decide to kill it. That will give me more time to evaluate the captured beetle and see if I can control them. And one other thing. We need to be on the lookout for anything that might be reproducing these beetles. Like a "queen" or a magic device or something.".
After his oratory the mage falls silent and prepares to fight.
Figment, cont. Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 12:11:03 PM
The mage reassesses his ideas for soundness based on the available facts and a review of the glyphs on the captured. He considers how he might craft a spell or incantation based on the glyphs that might control the big ones. (INT DC 18 + 4 + 9 + 9 = 40)
Dakar Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 4:33:36 PM
"Need I remind you that I did more than soften them up in the last encounter... My kill count alone was almost equal to the damage the rest of you did combined." He turns to Brother Bertram. "You are not a dwarf of my clan. You are a Brother of my faith, but you still cannot understand the way of existence that I and my kin lived. Are you a hill dwarf? Or do you come from the depths as I do? In the halls of my ancestors to sleep in this way was to ensure that your comrades would meet death the next day. We did not rush into battle without preparation. Our axes were sharp and our minds sound. When you live the life of battle you realize that tactics are a matter of great clashes between armies, not skirmishes. We fight skirmishes here against an enemy that dies as softly as an orc."
Flueterflam Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 4:44:00 PM
The bard yawns, stretches...stretches again, then gathers himself to go off into battle. As various others argue, Fluet smiles. Nothing like a little last minute quarrels to prepare for a good battle.
Milo Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 5:02:55 PM
After praying and eating, Milo prepares for the fight to come, though hearing Dakar, he just about has had enough. Looking at the dwarf from across the room, "Dakar, what right have you to judge others upbringing, and how particularly tough it is or isn't... I don't profess to know anything about dwarves that I haven't witnessed first hand, but you seem to have a great deal of criticism of everyone else as of late. All you say is... you don't know this and you don't know that... well I'll tell you what I do know, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and right now, with the recklessness you've displayed, that is you! And don't think for one second that I'm attempting to damage your reputation... or your honor... but ask yourself this mister 'I have a debt to repay' when you charge headlong into danger without thought of consequence... whom do you serve... is it Domi... or is it yourself." The diminutive patriarch stands with his arms crossed and a look that can only be described as pure stubborness on his face.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:17:10 PM
Bertram listens to Dakar rant for a few moments as he sits there wrapping the grips on his axe. Finally as Dakar winds down he looks up at him. "I am indeed not a member of your clan nor did I ever claim to be. You say you and your clan do not rush into battle without preparation, but yet the short time I have been with this group you have done nothing BUT rush into battle, or berate us for not rushing into battle with you. As for the others here with you they can listen or ignore you as they wish. As for me, I am tired of the way you berate us and try to drag us into danger foolishly, and frankly you embarass our Brotherhood and Domi. I would say that I think you are going to get yourself killed, but fools generally get killed ones close to them rather than themselves. But of course that would not possibly be your fault." Bertram turns his back on Dakar and begins making sure his pack is ready to go.
Olana Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 1:48:53 AM
The elf looks to K'Nara and shrugs. "Perhaps the sooner we get to killing these beetles, the better. We seem to be ready for it." The elf heads forward, following Orgar.
DM Jan (Shhh, listen- whats that sound......) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 2:06:26 AM
The Talons set off down the south tunnel. Occasionally a call can be heard in dwarven, drifting from some of the the smaller tunnels. They appear to be calls of recognition to those who understand dwarven, and are perhaps coming from those who are standing sentry in the other tunnels. Their tone does not suggest alarm.
The darkness sucks at any light to be had. The cavern where the group smashed the smaller beetles is reached, and then passed. The tunnel then becomes quite steep as it continues on. ((All players roll LISTEN CHECK at this point to determine awareness of something a little odd - DC 14))
K'Nara d20-1=17 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:18:02 AM
"Milo! And here I thought you were an acolyte of Alemi rather than Domi!" K'Nara said to the halfling with a smile. She paused long enough to kneel so as to be on the same level as Milo before continuing to speak to him. "Thank you for the defense, my friend...but try not to take what our resident battlerager says personally...he is simply exhibiting the stress that this unnatural situation in these tunnels poses for all of us. The sooner we cleanse the tunnels the better." The tall human female stood back up again, mulling over Ingrge's and Figment's advice.
"Recon is a good idea--we will assess what the exact situation is when we reach that cavern." K'Nara agreed. "If we see signs that Figment's theory is, indeed, correct, then we should give the dwarves who live here a choice as to whether they wish to harness these beetles' ability for their own use...or not." With a nod of her cauled head, the leader of the Emerald Talons returned to her place in the marching order, murmuring "Lucia" and lighting her sword for use as a torch. After advancing beyond the original battle site, she suddenly raised her left hand, signaling the party to halt.
"Hey...what's that sound..?" K'Nara demanded, lifting her right hand--with its flaming blade--as high as she could, looking around to try to identify whatever it was that she'd heard...or, at least, which direction the strange noise came from.
Milo d20+6=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:00:27 AM
Confronted with K'nara, Milo seems to visibly relax, and nods agreement with her as she speaks. Turning his back on Dakar, and the entire conversation, Milo takes a deep breath and draws his short sword, resting it on his diminutive shoulder in readiness. He then takes his place in the marching order beside Bertram, giving the dwarf a gentle pat on the shoulder.
As he follows the rest of the group down the passage, he catches himself in mid-yawn as a something catches his attention. (OOC: made my listen check DC 15)
Figment d20=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 12:03:15 PM
The mage takes his place with the others. He pulls out a torch apparently prepared last night which gives off light (Continual Flame). "I did not have time to prepare more of these but I will if this drags on a couple of days.".
As they proceed down the tunnel the hair on the back of his neck rises (Made listen check). "Get ready guys, something's here.".
Brother Bertram d20=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 4:40:01 PM
Bertram gives Milo and quick smile at his touch as they move forward. Shortly after they start, he cocks his head listening, an odd look on his face.
Olana d20=19 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 10:52:49 PM
Olana, up at the front of the party comes to a halt, also hearing what the others have heard. She moves her head from side to side, using both eyes and ears, trying o figure out what it is.
Ingrge d20+2=16 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:46:46 PM
Just as everyone starts shushing each other Ingrge turns and says "will you all be quiet, I think I hear something.
Dakar d20+3=17 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:48:48 PM
"Life is battle, battle life." replies Dakar to Brother Bertram, reciting the dwarvish parable he learned in his youth. "In battle only can the honorless find honor." He hefts his axe and walks alongside the rest of the party. After a few moments his ears perk up, and his head turns in the direction of something in the darkness
DM Jan (...everybody look whats goin' round...) Thursday May 24th, 2001 12:18:42 AM
As the light from K'nara's sword, and Figment's continual light torch dance along the tunnels, a strange sound can be heard off to the right in one of the smaller darker tunnels. It's like a popping sound - maybe like something bubbling and oozing.
"Don't like the sound of that," mutters Orgar, who was about to say something to Figment and K'Nara before he too heard the sound. "Never heard that before. And we have a little ways to go yet before we get to that big 'un."
K'Nara Thursday May 24th, 2001 6:18:45 AM
"So...this is a sound new to the tunnels, Orgar..?" K'Nara asked, frowning. "Then we'd better see what it means. Let's follow the sound to its source--carefully, of course--it could be anything from some lava stream to...oh, gods...something that the beetle wizard guy stuck down here in order to help his bugs out." The woman warrior turned toward the tunnel the sound was coming from, in order to gauge its size and whether or not she would actually fit in it. If she could not, K'Nara fully planned on asking Orgar to accompany those who could fit into that tunnel.
Figment Thursday May 24th, 2001 11:52:19 AM
The mage hunkers down and follows the others into the dark abyss.
Milo Thursday May 24th, 2001 7:56:55 PM
Curious as to the nature of the sound as anybody, Milo strains his ears listening. Then when K'nara turns to enter the tunnel, he willingly follows, short sword at the ready.
Dakar Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:03:01 PM
The battlerager ponders the noise fof a moment more. After a few seconds pass he trudges in, reluctantly, with the others. He brings his axe to the ready position, so that he can bite deeply into whatever foe they may face.
Ingrge Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:08:45 PM
Letting the others go ahead in to the side passage ingrge takes a moment before following and quaffs a potion from his side pocket. (invisibility)
Olana Friday May 25th, 2001 2:03:26 AM
The elf hesitantly steps forward, wondering what the heck they're going to find now. It was bound to be something horrid - everything had been horrid so far. She pulls her sword.
DM Jan Friday May 25th, 2001 2:07:48 AM
This side tunnel is smaller, and more narrow - standing about 4 and a half feet in height, so some may have to crawl. Ahead is an eerie green glow. It's coming from what looks like a pile of ooze, which blocks the way and is making popping noises and quivering slightly. Within it - things seem to be moving.
K'Nara d20+2=8 Friday May 25th, 2001 6:06:46 AM
K'Nara had to crawl extra slow--her fiery sword was her only source of light and she didn't want to burn anybody with it. Once her eyes fell upon the sight of the moving ooze, she froze in place for a moment.
"Everybody--OUT!" she barked. "This is entirely too close-quarters for any of us to be effective..." The woman warrior began backing out of the tunnel. "...with the exception, of course, of dwarves and Milo, here, that is." Once everyone was safely out, K'Nara took a moment to pose a question to those whom may have a better grasp of Spellcraft than the neophyte sorceress:
"The way that...stuff was moving--do you think it may have something to do with these beetles?" she asked. "I mean...that bug-crazy wizard was also REALLY talented at making potions...so maybe this oozy stuff is some kind of potion he planted here...to...uh...umm...what? Make bugs out of nothing? Or feed them, maybe..?" Clearly the inexperience of dealing directly with such magic hampered K'Nara, though, as she just couldn't seem to fathom the meaning of the eerie ooze. (OOC: I only rolled 8 on a voluntary Spellcraft check.)
Figment d20+4=22 Friday May 25th, 2001 10:54:40 AM
The mage looks closely at the ooze before moving back to try and determine what it might be (INT DC 31 [22+9=31].
Ingrge d20+3=14 d20+12=13 Friday May 25th, 2001 11:23:06 PM
Being near the rear of the party, Ingrge doesn't get close enough to get a look at the ooze but from the description tries to figure out what it might be (Int DC 14, Arcane Knowledge DC 13).
Flueterflam Saturday May 26th, 2001 3:27:28 AM
Fluet, having kept quiet mainly, stays near the rear of the party. Listening to the description of their new surroundings, the bard decides he'll let the others try to figure this one out.
Olana Saturday May 26th, 2001 6:10:58 PM
Having took a quick look at the thing before backing out, the elf wrinkles her nose. "Well at least it didn't have pincers," she says cheerfully. "But it looked alive - or perhaps there's something alive inside."
DM Jan (Mommy where do bab - ? Hush lad and ask yer dad) Saturday May 26th, 2001 6:22:05 PM
Everyone backs out into the main tunnel, and as the collective brain of the Talons goes to work, those who had a closer look, could see that the weird ooze was semi tansparent - revealing small eliptical objects inside it. Some were slightly larger than others, and had small protrusions which wiggled about a little. There didn't appear to be any obvious presence of magic here, but something was happening - evident by the continual hissing and popping sounds. Orgar scratches his beard. "Whatever it is," he says gravely, "I don't like it." To Figment and Ingrge in particular - it appears perhaps that the ooze is protecting something.
Ingrge Saturday May 26th, 2001 10:04:51 PM
K'narra, what think you about a little magical fire being applies to said ooze. Or perhaps some oil and regular fire?
Dakar Monday May 28th, 2001 7:17:58 PM
"Eggs. They're hatching." states the priest, making the common sensical observation. "That's the birthing fluid. We smash them and go down this tunnel. The mother can't be far." he raises his hammer, and begins to move towards the eggs, warily.
Olana Monday May 28th, 2001 11:00:04 PM
"Eggs?" says the elf? "Oh my - we need less of these things not more," She then nods at Ingrge's suggestion.
Figment Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:35:20 AM
The mage cautions Dakar "Please wait before entering my good man. I believe that the ooze is an animal, not birthing fluid. If you get it on you it will attempt to digest you. I'd say we use oil and natural fire. That way we preserve our magic for the things that can really hurt us and perhaps not damage whatever it is defending for observation.".
Milo Tuesday May 29th, 2001 10:23:29 AM
Milo's head bobs up and down, nodding every time someone mentions the use of fire, and then a thought occurs to him... "Um... guys... won't fire create a lot of smoke... like in underground tunnels... it could get very uncomfortable down here really fast..."
DM Jan Tuesday May 29th, 2001 7:36:15 PM
Suddenly - footsteps are heard and one of the younger dwarves with an extremely short beard appears. He walks to K'Nara and tells her that the guards outside want an update on whats going on, and if they don't get one there'll be hell to pay. K'Nara has no choice but to leave the party for the moment and travel back toward the main entrance. Orgar mutters a highly flavoured dwarven curse aimed at the guards ancestors. "Well," he glowers, "if you're going to burn it then burn it. There's no way that giant beetle is further down there though - the tunnel's too small. The big 'un's down this way." He points to the main tunnel in the direction they were headed originally ie. south.
Dakar d20+4=15 d8+10=16 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 8:19:39 PM
Dakar shrugs his shoulders and raises his hammer. "The ooze won't burn anyway, and I fear if you decide to use your spells we'll have to wait another 8 hours before we leave this tunnel so as not to lose any 'tactical advantage'." The painmonger brings his hammer down at the ooze with a show of raw and unbridled strength, attempting to hit one of the pods encased within. (Power attack, AC 15, 16 damage)
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:50:21 PM
Bertram clucks to himself and readies his axe as Dakar charges forward, attempting to massacre the puddle. He waits to see the results of the attack.
Figment Wednesday May 30th, 2001 11:17:37 AM
The mage impatiently waits for Dakar to finish, wondering why he even offers suggestions any more.
Flueterflam Wednesday May 30th, 2001 6:31:08 PM
Quietly, the bard hums to himself so he can pass the time.
Ingrge Wednesday May 30th, 2001 7:07:02 PM
Dakar, stop. I doubt you can do much to that with physical force. It kind a reminds me of frogs eggs. You know, mostly slimy stuff with some embryos scatterred throughout. It should burn nicely with a bit of oil I suggest we head onward and leave this mess to be burnt by a few of your brethren.
Asst. D.M. Kent (Green eggs and ham, anyone?) Wednesday May 30th, 2001 7:40:03 PM
Dakar's attack makes a big splash and sends great gobs of green frothy goo everywhere and covers Dakar from head to toe. Several of the dwarves that were guarding the head of passage look to Orgar for permission and get the nod. "We will stay behind and burn this mess while you go ahead and take care of your business.
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 30th, 2001 10:56:37 PM
Bertram eyes the green, slime coated figure that was Dakar, and after a moment's struggle with himself, starts chuckling, soon it turns to great gales of good-natured laughter. Tears roll down his face as he eyes the sad figure his brother Dwarf makes. "Forgi...gasp...forgive me Brother, but by the gods you look pitiful" Bertram calms himself and tosses a dry cloth from his pack to the poor fellow.
Milo Thursday May 31st, 2001 2:53:25 AM
Milo gasps in pain as he bites down firmly on his own tongue in order to keep from laughing hysterically at Dakar. A tear rolls silently down the halfling's cheek, and he wonders whether it is in pain, or mirth that it was created.
Figment Thursday May 31st, 2001 12:29:01 PM
The mage alternates between nods to Orgar and shakes of his head at Dakar. "I'd say now would be a good time to continue. Lets go.".
Dakar Friday June 1st, 2001 12:44:01 AM
The battlerager sheepishbly accepts the tossed cloth and wipes the goo off himself. "Well. Doesn't look like it was any sort of creature. I think it's safe now." He begins to chuckle, softly at first but then filling the room with his resounding laughter. "By Domi... I've been all too serious lately."
Olanna Friday June 1st, 2001 9:10:31 AM
Holding back a giggle, Olanna looks around at her companions and with a straight face says to Dakar, "It's good to see that you have a lighter side Dakar. Especially when the yolk is on you."
Ingrge Friday June 1st, 2001 9:18:29 AM
Ingrge looks back over his shoulder and says, Ok now, since K'narra is upside for now, I guess we need to try to carry on with our plan. Milo, Olanna, you guys want to take point? Dakar and I will go next followed by Bertram and Figment. Fluet, do you mind bringing up the rear? After we get a scouting report I suggest that, Figment and I will fill the cavern with a bit of magic and then we go in. If possible, we should spread out a bit once in the cavern and try to coordinate our attacks.
Asst. DM Kent Friday June 1st, 2001 9:25:56 AM
The dwarves get to work saturating the slime with oil. As the group gets situated and heads down the passage, for the first time they mood seems lighter than any can remember in days. Fifteen minutes of walking, and you see what can only be the opening of the cavern. There is a lone dwarven guard about 20 feet from the cavern entry and 40 ft from you.
Brother Bertram Friday June 1st, 2001 10:04:33 AM
Bertram nods acquiescence to Ingrge and moves into the formation set. As he settles besides Figment he can not help but notice the change in everyone after the unfortunate incident with Dakar and the slime. Everyone seems in much better spirits, relieving Bertram of some of the concerns he had when he first met them. Thinking back once again on the slime and Dakar, Bertram grins and nudges Figment ,pointing towards the remains of the slime on the dwarf's backside. "I feel sorry for whoever runs into Dakar today, Friend Figment!"
Milo d20+14=24 Friday June 1st, 2001 11:18:04 AM
Milo nods to Ingrge, grinning all the while. Stepping up to point next to Olana, the halfling gives her sort of a mock salute, and then pads quietly beside her down the passage, short sword resting across one shoulder. (OOC: Made a move silently check DC 24)
Flueterflam Friday June 1st, 2001 2:32:04 PM
The bard follows everyone. Every so often, he stops, turns to look behind himself, then follows the party again. The caves make him uneasy, so he holds on to his dagger carefully, in case anything should SUDDENLY happen without warning.
Figment Saturday June 2nd, 2001 11:33:40 AM
The mage banters with Bertram about what's coming up and prepares to cast at a moments notice. "Yes my good Dwarf, I'd have to say I'm glad he's on our side. As for strategy, I intend to use my web/lightning bolt combination if at all possible. Whatever Ingrge has planned should come in concert. That way we will have a delay of a few moments for prepare for the assault and they will have taken some substantial damage before the fighters press their attack. Hopefully it will take no more than one attack per bug after that.".
K'Nara (who is methodically trudging back to the party) Monday June 4th, 2001 5:46:14 PM Domi preserve me from idiots!!! the tall auburn-haired warrior fumed as she made her way carefully back through the passages of the dwarven mine, stopping occasionally to consult Helga's map. She wasn't used to the subterranean environment and had NO desire to become lost...which K'Nara ran the risk of now that she was returning from having to give an "update" of the Talons' progress to a thick-witted sub-lackey of Parnoth's!
Flaming dunce! the human bladesinger opined mentally. I think with lackeys like that, perhaps neither the Tines nor the Talons will have to work too hard to bring Parnoth down. Hmmmph!
Then K'Nara lifted her flaming sword higher and continued her way down, down the tunnels.
Asst. Dm Kent (Peek-A- Boo) Monday June 4th, 2001 8:03:45 PM
Olanna and Milo start to make their way down to peer in to the cavern entrance when the whole party smells an unbelievable stench of smoke mixed with some putrid green smell. (role fortitude DC10 or lose your lunch)
K'narra makes her way back down the tunnels and is fairly sure shes going the right way, when moments later she is rewarded with finding the cavern with the trapped beetel in it. From there she starts down the next passage and soon she hears the sounds of crackling flames and she smells something really nasty (Fortitude DC10 or lose your lunch)moments later you come upon the egg tunnel and several very green looking dwarves.
Dakar d20+10=19 Monday June 4th, 2001 10:30:39 PM
Grimacing, Dakar heads further forward with the rest of the group. Seeing the reactions on some of his companions faces he turns to them with a quizzical look on his face. "Does something smell amiss?" he asks, so used to his own sweat and odors that this new scent presents nothing offensive to him.
K'Nara d20+10=17 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 6:29:15 AM
K'Nara paused briefly by the dwarves with the chartreuse tinge to their faces.
"Are you all...all right..?" she asked in Common, smelling that horrible smell and coughing a couple of times. (OOC: fortunately K'Nara didn't roll a 1 on her Fort save. 8D)
"The others...they went that way..?" the tall human queried, pointing down the tunnel that was supposed to lead to where they'd originally figured one of the large giant beetles to be.
Figment d20+4=16 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:35:45 AM
The mage covers his nose with his sleeve and continues down the tunnel. "Perhaps it was a good thing to allow the dwarves to burn that green ooze. Otherwise we may not have fared so well as we vomited in their presence. Let's move on quickly - please.".
Brother Bertram d20+7=25 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:41:38 AM
Bertram is moving along when he becomes aware of a horrible stench. He quickly covers his nose and mouth with a small cloth, trying not to retch all over his companions.
Olana d20+3=11 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 9:48:28 PM
"Ewwwww....." whispers the elf to Milo as they progress down the tunnel, her stomach giving an alarming lurch. Barely holding down her stomach contents, she advances toward the dwarf sentry and looks beyond.
DM Jan d20+8=28 d12+3=8 d4=3 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:01:35 PM
The nasty pong starts to dissipate. At the cavern entrance, those near the dwarf sentry see shadows shifting slightly ahead in the gloom. The dwarf sentry raises a finger to his mouth and says - "Shh.... oh crikey! Run!"
Ahead goes completely black, as though suddenly - something has blocked the already dark cavern ahead. There is a hiss, and Olana is hit by some strange liquid. The force of the stuff causes her to be knocked back (for 8 DAM), and a strange mist begins to rise slowly from her armour.
15 minutes behind the rest of the party, K'Nara is told - "That way..." croaked aloud by a few sickly dwarves who have torched the egg mass.
Flueterflam d20+1=6 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:30:46 PM
As Fluet is walking along behind the group, lost in thoughts, he suddenly notices the most putrid smell he can ever remember smelling. Moments later he stops to spew all over the tunnel's floor. After regaining what little he can of his composure, the bard manages a slight request, "Let's leave soon, please!!!" He holds his breath as long as possible, fearing another 'outburst'.
Dakar Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:43:43 PM
Dakar raises an eyebrow at the bard before noting the cavern growing dark ahead. "Looks like the father bug has come to play!" he shouts, focusing his low-light vision on the cavern ahead and moving to take cover behind any rock protrusions if he can't see the incoming bug.
Milo d20+7=12 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 1:44:16 AM
Barely able to contain his stomach as the smell passes, Milo quickly moves ahead keeping his eye on the passage. As all grows dark, and then Olana is struck, his eyes spring open wide, "By Alemi, that thing must be huge..." Turning to Olana, Milo grabs an arm or leg that isn't smoking, and pulls, attempting to move her down the passage, away from the giant bug's arse. "Come along... time to let the wizards do their job."
K'Nara Wednesday June 6th, 2001 5:45:05 AM
"My thanks, friends," the tall human female said, nodding to the dwarves, "Buck up! Soon my Talons will have your caves and tunnels back to normal!" Then K'Nara turned and quickly but carefully followed the passage indicated by the still-nauseous earthkin, using the flames of Lucia to see by.
Ingrge d20=16 5d6(6+4+4+3+1)=18 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 10:58:08 AM
Managing to keep his stomach's contents a secret, Ingrge covers his mouth and nose with a cloth and after Milo and Olanna retreat steps up for a closer look.(how full is the cavern entry?) Ingrge looks to Figment and then motions for the others to back up a bit. Noting how far the beast's liquid projectile went Ingrge tries to stay out of range and starts casting a spell, trying to focus the spell roughly five feet into the cavern, in front of the beastie( if not possible will ceter the ball on beastie's rear end. (Fireball - 18 points reflex save for 1/2 damage DC16)
Figment 6d6(5+4+3+5+3+6)=26 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 12:19:18 PM
The mage decides to fire as well casting a lightnig bolt straight through the creature - and hopefully through anything on the other side. (Beginning directly in front of the party. 26 dmg)
Olana Thursday June 7th, 2001 12:18:17 AM
The elf gives a startled yelp as she's hurled backward. With Milo's help, she scrambles further away. Looking down, she frowns. "Oh dear, what IS this stuff?"
DM Jan Thursday June 7th, 2001 12:35:49 AM
The double strike from Ingrge and Figment makes a great pyrotechnic display and for a moment everyone is blinded.
The gloom returns, although everyone has spots in front of their eyes, particularly those with dark and low light vision. Up ahead - the cavern entrance still seems blocked, although now there doesn't appear to be any movement. Funnily enough - the new smell in the air - cooked beetle, actually smells rather tasty.
The dwarf sentry takes one look at Olana and starts running, bowling into Fluet and Bertram before continuing. ((Fluet & Bertie - Dex against DC 15 to stay on your feet))
Further back down the tunnel, K'Nara's sword causes shadows to flicker and dance on the walls as she advances toward the others. Then - somewhere up ahead, she hears a mighty blast, there's what looks like a temporary increase in light, and then - she sees a dwarf hurtling in her direction. He stops at a nearby tunnel at her right and cries out - "Water! Water!" There's an echo as he calls out, and K'Nara hears another voice elsewhere - to the left this time - "Water... water..." ((Another round and K'Nara rejoins the party))
Flueterflam d20+1=16 Thursday June 7th, 2001 1:38:53 AM
"Whoa...." Fluet shouts, startled by the dwarf. He conveniently pulls his body barely out of the dwarf's way.
K'Nara d20-1=14 Thursday June 7th, 2001 6:03:17 AM
"By the Sisters!!!" gasped K'Nara as the explosion rocked the tunnel. "What in the Wold--?" Her rhetorical question was cut short by the sudden appearance of the dwarf.
"Earthkin!" the tall human woman shouted. "What happened? Why are you yelling for water? Where are the others--the Emerald Talons..?" As she asks these things of the anxious dwarf, K'Nara looks him over with concern to see if he's injured at all. (OOC: rolled a Spot check for 14)
Ingrge Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:25:06 AM
Stepping aside and looking back at the rest of the party, Ingrge chuckles a quiet, Now that is how things should be done," and then more loudly, "Dakar, you may now forge ahead and see what is left to be done."
Figment Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:39:12 AM
The mage hears the dwarf's cry for water and deduces that they'd better act quickly. "Olana, we must quickly get that poison off you. It appears to have acid qualities and will probably hurt you more.". He pulls out his water flask and tries to use it to help in the cleaning process if possible. As he looks ahead he says "Careful Dakar, keep an eye out on those smaller beetles.".
Milo Thursday June 7th, 2001 4:57:32 PM
Getting the idea, Milo sheaths his short sword, and pulls out a waterskin, dousing Olana's armor in water along side Figment. "Looking up at Olana... I sure hope this works..." The halfling suddenly grins, "Actually its too bad you have this armor on, otherwise this'd be a wet tunic contest..." Milo erupts into giggles.
Brother Bertram d20+4=5 Thursday June 7th, 2001 9:24:32 PM
Bertram is still recovering from the fantastic light display when he feels his feet knocked from under him and he hits the ground with a loud grunt as the wind is knocked from his lungs. He lies there a moment composing himself before rising slowly trying to regain his breath, and his dignity.
Dakar Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:34:13 PM
Dakar hefts his axe and trundles off towards the blockage of the cavern ahead. "We'll show them how we mine beetle from the cavern walls, eh axe?" he says, stroking the blade lovingly.
Olana Friday June 8th, 2001 1:37:20 AM
Rather unnerved at the dwarf's reaction at running off, the elf starts getting a little nervous and has no qualms about Figment and Milo throwing water all over her. She keeps her eyes on the water's effect, while wagging a finger at Milo's comment and giggling nervously.
DM Jan Friday June 8th, 2001 1:43:23 AM
"Poison!" announces the dwarf to K'nara, and "That way!" pointing down the tunnel. ((She should reach them this round.))
Back up at the cavern entrance, Bertram rises to his feet after being knocked down flat - Fluet is probably glad he didnt suffer the same fate. And while Figment and Milo slosh water onto Olana, they can see the smoking lessens where the water touches.
Dakar and Ingrge are able to see that the cavern entrance is completely blocked with fried beetle, if anyone wishes to look beyond - it's going to take a few blows to do so.
K'Nara Friday June 8th, 2001 6:43:41 AM
"Poison? Oh, hell--" K'Nara cut herself off and sprinted down the tunnel, spying the familiar figures of her party shortly.
"What happened? Was anyone hurt..?" demanded the tall redhead with the flaming sword as K'Nara ran up to them and skidded to a stop.
Figment Friday June 8th, 2001 12:19:25 PM
The mage continues to help Olana. "Ingrge and I fried the big beetle - but not before it nailed Olana with a dose of poision. Any bwater you have will be most useful. It's body now blocks our way. Somehow I think Dakar will be instrumental in fixing that problem. Hey Dakar - remember that this bug will stink profusely once cut. Perhaps you should attempt to push it out of the way?".
Dakar Monday June 11th, 2001 10:19:39 AM
Dakar nods back to Figment before wrapping his corded arms around whatever part of the beetle he can get a hold of and, grunting, beginning to drag it out of the cavern's entrance (Dakar can drag 1750 lbs of beetle, if it weighs more than that we're in trouble anyway.)
Ingrge Monday June 11th, 2001 8:07:17 PM
Adding some water to the flow pouring toward Olanna, Ingrge grins at Dakar, You might try pushing.
Olana Tuesday June 12th, 2001 1:00:34 AM
Olana continues to look down at herself worriedly while getting drenched. "I'm afraid the beetle spat a lot of stuff on me," says the elf ruefully to K'Nara as she arrives.
DM Jan Tuesday June 12th, 2001 1:08:36 AM
As K'Nara arrives to see everyone play at "soak the elf", Dakar's pulling, pushing and shoving eventually creates a gap that everyone can squeeze through one by one.
Olana's armour has stopped steaming by now, but it's looking a bit ratty and possibly in need of repair. Back down the tunnel where K'Nara appeared from, everyone can hear the sound of a rumbling cart and "Make way!" in dwarven.
K'Nara Tuesday June 12th, 2001 5:35:02 AM
Lifting Lucia high, the human bladesinger squinted in the direction of the voice.
"Who goes there..?" K'Nara called in Common.
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 12th, 2001 10:16:19 AM
Bertram keeps an eye on Olana making sure there is no further reaction from the poison.
Figment Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:16:44 PM
The mage squezses past the big beetle into the cavern and takes a quick glance around. He tries to get a look at the glyphs on the side of this beetle to see if they are any different than the others he's seen.
Milo Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:32:52 PM
With a huge grin on his face, Milo admires the soaked Olana, and then turns to see Bertram concern, "Good dwarf, if worse comes to worse, I have a potion that will neutralize the poison." Milo smiles confidently, patting his satchel.
Flueterflam Tuesday June 12th, 2001 9:26:23 PM
Laughing at Milo's comment, "You just had to wait till she was all wet first to offer, heh?" The bard winks at the hafling.
Olana Tuesday June 12th, 2001 11:39:07 PM
The elf grins at Fluet and Milo and then sighs ruefully at the state of her armour, wondering if the poison is likely to affect her person.
DM Jan Tuesday June 12th, 2001 11:50:03 PM
Rumble, rumble, rumble....... In answer to K'Nara's question three dwarves appear pulling a cart with two large barrels on the back. Orgar announces that he thinks Olana should jump in one of the barrels just to be on the safe side, to which one of the dwarves who has just arrived with the cart, remarks in dwarven about elves being like cats and not liking water. His companions chuckle.
At the cavern entrance, Figment moves past the huge dead beetle and into the cavern proper. In here it is extremely hard to see and he will need some form of light in order to investigate properly. At least nothing seems to be attacking him - yet. From the glow coming from the cavern entrance, there seems to be a slight glint about 20 ft away, as the light seems to be reflecting off something.
K'Nara Wednesday June 13th, 2001 6:27:55 AM
K'Nara's mouth pulled thoughtfully to one side as she contemplated.
"Into the barrel, Olana--we have to be sure that ALL the poison is off of you." she said, agreeing with Orgar's advice. "The armor is likely a bit beat up, but it's magic, right? It shouldn't be damaged...unless the poison is magic, too..?"
Figment Wednesday June 13th, 2001 10:50:57 AM
The mage uses his continual flamed torch that he has been carrying to see what's in the cavern. "Looks like something shiney in here guys.".
Ingrge Wednesday June 13th, 2001 11:21:30 AM
Be careful Figment, I would hate to think that we killed the beast to lose you to something shiny.
Olana Thursday June 14th, 2001 12:25:00 AM
Biting her lip for a moment, the elf then jumps into the barrel of water.
Milo d20+14=18 Thursday June 14th, 2001 2:09:03 AM
Turning towards Figment at his pronouncment, Milo's left eyebrow arches in curiosity... "Shiny? Lets have a look at that." With that, Milo steps silently across to where Figment is standing, and has himself a peek. (OOC: Move Silently DC 18)
K'Nara Thursday June 14th, 2001 6:46:14 AM
"Here...hold this a moment, willya, Fluet..?" K'Nara said to the bard, handing him the flaming sword, "...I wanna help Olana out here..." The human bladesinger assisted the ranger in making sure all the armor parts were, indeed, rinsed off and then helped Olana back out of the barrel.
"There! That wasn't so bad, now, was it?" K'Nara asked jovially, retrieving Lucia from Fluet.
Flueterflam Thursday June 14th, 2001 9:52:10 AM
Fluet takes her sword, rather surprised at first. "Um...ok...." Before even having time to consider what just happened, K'Nara pulls the sword away from him. "Alrighty....so...um..now what?"
DM Jan Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:41:39 AM
As Figment's torch is moved further into the room, more becomes clear. This cavern is fairly large and narrows at one end to nothing. There are no other passages leading off either. As the torch sweeps past a shimmer of ore is reflected at the narrow end.
At the centre of the cavern - both Figment and Milo can see two fairly small objects - they're egg shaped, and metallic. As for the beetle, the runes are still there - again the spells range can be determined ie. it's alchemic properties, but it's HUGELY complicated. There's a word there - ancient, arcane - T, R, U - the rest has been cooked.
Out in the passage, Olana takes a bath. An inspection of her armour reveals it has lost some of it's protection (Reduce AC by 1) and will need repair. Perhaps the fact that she was doused with water pretty quickly, saved her armour from being completely useless and beyond saving.
Orgar seems very pleased and slaps everyone on the back. Bertram and Dakar take this pretty well physically, but K'Nara, Ingrge, Fluet and Olana realise just how strong these dwarves are as they are given a hearty crack on the back. "Right,!" he says full of enthusiasm. "A good job! Let's go get the other one in the north passage!"
Olana Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:57:39 AM
The elf climbs out of the barrel, coughing and spluttering. 'Thanks,' she croaks to K'Nara as she helps her out. "Orgar, do you think you could - OOOH!" she exclaims as she gets slapped on the back, all the air escaping from her lungs. Taking a deep breath she finishes her sentence - " - ask someone at your forge to fix my armour?"
Milo Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:58:18 AM
"Um... Orgar, you're probably going to want to have some of your kin come down here and collect these hunks of mithril the beetle spit out..." Milo turns to follow everyone off to the next really huge beetle.
Dakar d20+5=10 Thursday June 14th, 2001 12:03:44 PM
"Assuming one of us doesn't want them, eh?" states the quiet dwarf, turning to Milo "I could use metal of this kind..." Dakar investigates the egg, trying to determine what type of metal it is. (Weaponsmithing check DC 10)
Figment d20+13=32 Thursday June 14th, 2001 12:53:40 PM
The mage mulls over the runes "TRU... Hmmm". Guys, I'd say it might be a good idea to give the metal to the simths so they can attempt their test of the metal. That will tell us if this metal is as good as it seems. I still say we need to figure out a way to control these things...". The mage continues to try and put the pieces together in his mind. How would one go about controlling these things. He makes a note to look closely at the runes on the trapped beetle on the way back out. DC 32 (Int+4,Arcana+9)
Brother Bertram Thursday June 14th, 2001 4:23:51 PM
Bertram watches the enthusiastic dwarves with a smile, but turns back and watches for any other predators. "This seems a trifle too easy"
K'Nara d20+2=12 Friday June 15th, 2001 6:07:44 AM
"These giant-sized bugs are NOT easy--Olana is testimony to that." K'Nara disagrees amiably with Bertram. "We were lucky, is all. We can look over these metal bits and then give 'em to the smiths working on the metal they managed to get from their imprisoned bug. If there aren't any other objections, we can hustle over to the location of the other beetle..?" The tall human female looked around the interior cavern, then inspected the rune-covered side of the cooked insect, attempting to briefly meditate on any arcane inspiration it may have given her...but simply blinked uncomprehendingly at the complex and partially-eradicated writing. (OOC: voluntary Spellcraft check was only 12.)
Ingrge Friday June 15th, 2001 11:36:16 AM
Too Easy? well perhaps this one was, but there were no little ones involved and Figment and I were lucky with our spells. For my side of things that ws the only fireball spell I had for the day, so the next meeting will not be so quick.
DM Jan (Passing the DM Mantle on to Sam) Sunday June 17th, 2001 6:50:49 PM
Orgar tells Olana that if she takes a quick trip to the forge, then he's sure his fellow dwarves there would be able to accomodate her. As they talk, Figment and K'nara take another look at the runes. Apart from a few basic strokes, K'Nara recognises nothing in the highly stylized craft of the twisted, insect-loving wizard. Figment can't find anything that would control these creatures - it's as if the spell in the runes was purely aimed at what the beetle produced - how they behaved was left entirely to the beetles own devices. As Dakar peruses the metal, he can see it looks reasonably pure, but there's not enough to forge a weapon - not yet. The main thing about the metal eggs - to anyone who handles them, is that they are VERY heavy. One of the dwarves who brought the water cart asks Ingrge if they should drag the metal pieces back to the forge on the cart.
Olana (Passing the reins to DEH) Sunday June 17th, 2001 6:53:14 PM
The elf nods at Orgar and then asks K'Nara if there is time for her to go and get her armour fixed.
K'Nara Monday June 18th, 2001 6:46:35 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons frowned as she eyed the runes one last time, then turned to Olana.
"By all means!" K'Nara said, nodding. "Let's get you to the forge...while the smiths evaluate how long your armor repair may take, we can assemble a scouting team to see how that other giant beetle is set up in its cave. Maybe we'll even have time to map out a bit of strategy before having to face THAT one..!" Then the tall woman nods at Ingrge, indicating that she thought having the dwarves cart the metal "eggs" would be a good idea.
Dakar Monday June 18th, 2001 10:31:19 AM
Dakar turns to K'Nara his look absolutely incredulous. "We're turning back again, eh lass? Do you think we'll rid them of their problem in the next fort-night, or will a dozen more dwarves have to be ripped to pieces or turned into goo by these beetles spittle before you realize lives are at stake and we can't all turn back everytime one among us runs into a problem!"
Figment Monday June 18th, 2001 12:28:36 PM
The mage looks at the others and contributes to the plan. "The other beetle is not our problem. This beetle was not our problem either. It's the smaller ones. Orgar, has any of these big beetles ever come out of these tunnels except when lured by your clan? If not I STILL say that if you left these guys alone they'd mine the ore and purify it for you. We could construct barriers to prevent their escaping to protect your group from harm. Best I can tell from these runes they do not have any other purpose in their makeup but to produce pure metal. That's the only thing they do. The other type of beetle is the aggressive one. Lets kill them and leave the big one alone for now. We know where they will be - in the ore veign. I bet if you let the one you have captured go he'd turn tail and go back to what he was doing before you lured him. By the way, what was behind that green ooze? Eggs perhaps?".
After a moment the mage finishes "I would suggest we continue down the other tunnel. This one is obviously clear. We now need to make sure that none of the little ones get back into it. Our next big confrontation will be with them. I would expect that Dakar will see more action - other than green ichor. We also won't have to deal with more poison until we get past the smaller bugs. Currently I believe we have enough firepower - magically speaking to continue. At least for one more big battle.".
Milo Monday June 18th, 2001 2:39:21 PM
Standing silently, Milo waits for someone to make a decision about what they are to do next. He impatiently taps the flat of the blade of his short sword against his own shoulder.
Brother Bertram Monday June 18th, 2001 3:07:13 PM
Listening to Dakar rant, Bertram sighs and turns only to see Milo, obviously impatient. Bertram grins. "Whats wrong Friend Milo? Not enough action for the mighty Priests of this fair company? Bertram smiles affably but keeps an eye on Dakar and K'nara just in case there is a problem.
K'Nara d20=18 Tuesday June 19th, 2001 6:37:33 AM
There was a moment--a long, drawn-out moment--wherein K'Nara seriously entertained the idea of intimately introducing the battlerager to her flaming sword Lucia...but common sense prevailed, fortunately, and the human woman let Dakar's acid comment slide.
"It's up to Olana, then." K'Nara said, nodding to the ranger. "I know we need magic to help with the beetles, and Figment says there's enough spellpower to handle another encounter. If Olana thinks her armor will hold up in another battle, we can seek out the other bugs." The bladesinger rubbed her chin. (OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check for her next bit of dialogue.)
"You know, Figment, you may have a point about the really big bugs not being as aggressive as the small ones." K'Nara said, tilting her head. "Seems to me that this cooked bug here squirted some acid-stuff to help it get to the ore that's around here...not so much at the party or even specifically at Olana. What do YOU think..?"
Ingrge Tuesday June 19th, 2001 8:57:25 AM
Well the primary use of that acid might be to help its mining, but that baby purposefully turned around and stuck its rear end out the cave opening and let fly. While it may not be overtly aggressive like the litle ones...., Im all for getting done with this and getting out of this dank and dark, stinky, bug infested, series of worm holes. Turning quickly to Dakar, no offense to you or yours.
Bug Blues(dm sam) Tuesday June 19th, 2001 10:30:39 AM
Orgar, responding to Figment's question, says "Caging the big bugs is something we have thought about, but the problem is that the little bugs didnt show up until after the big bugs were here. I think that they may have spawned from the big bugs, though we havent had any proof of that. Anyway, we need to get rid of ALL the bugs in order to begin production again." then, looking a bit closer at Olana's armor, he says "Im no expert, but im betting its going to at least take 3 to 4 hours to fix those holes. Do you want to wait that long?"
Olana Tuesday June 19th, 2001 12:25:59 PM
The elf looks at the sad state of the armor and say "Well it still works - tatered as it may be so I think I would continue for a while long if everyone else wants to. As long as after that I can get it fixed.".
Figment Tuesday June 19th, 2001 12:33:14 PM
"Lets look around for evidence that the smaller bugs are - or are not - spawned from the big ones. If we can confirm that they come from a different source we could reconsider what to do with the big ones. If on the other hand they are the young of the large ones I'd say erradication is the most reasonable approach. Regardless the decision, we must remember that if the dwarves are to stay here and mine, then they must meet Parnoth's production demands. We need to measure any decision against that standard. Will leaving the big bugs alone hurt or help production? I'm not sure anyone knows the answer to that yet. I would hate to lose an opportunity for the dwarves to improve their situation by being too hasty with our actions. That's all.". From this point forward the mage begins to look closely for any sign of where the smaller bugs come from. "Let's go back and examine the remains of the green ooze. I want to see if it tells un anything useful.". With that the mage begins to retrace the steps up the passage - with the others, of course.
Milo Tuesday June 19th, 2001 12:45:46 PM
Turning to Bertram, "It isn't that there is not enough action... I really just want to get this over with. I'm not nearly as comfortable as ya'll are deep underground like this. As well, we've been moving and fighting for some time now as a group, I could do with a serious rest, away from these tunnels, away from those soldiers up there, and most certainly as far away from the big scaly green idiot who rules this country as I can possibly get." Milo's face has a look of great weariness on it for just a brief moment, before he screws his game face back on good and tight.
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 19th, 2001 2:02:35 PM
Bertram's face turns apologetic immediately. "I am sorry Friend Milo. I forget how other races view our warrens. I meant no disrespect to you in any way." Bertrams eyes soften for a moment. "And I fully understand weariness my friend. Thrown from one event to the other. Not in control of your own fate. A pawn in someone elses game. I understand and perhaps together we can end this and grant you some rest"
K'Nara Wednesday June 20th, 2001 5:59:33 AM
"Fair enough!" K'Nara nodded at Olana. "We'll have that armor repaired after the next battle, then." The six-foot-tall redhead glanced around at the rest of the party. "Let's go track us some bugs..!"
Bug Hunt(dm sam) Wednesday June 20th, 2001 8:32:22 AM
Orgar clasps his hands together and says. "All right then, ill show you where we burned the slime earlier. It just happenes to be near the entrance to the north cavern. While your searching that, ill get some of my clansmen to gather up those two eggs." then he moves to the entrance of the cave and begins to lead you towards the slime
Figment Wednesday June 20th, 2001 10:34:33 AM
The mage follows with anticipation as they make their way up the passage. When they get to the spot he begins a thourough examination - looking for any signs of magic or alchemy.
Olana Wednesday June 20th, 2001 11:44:36 AM
The elven fighter takes her place in the lineup as they retrace their steps. "I wonder how many of those little ones there really are?".
Flueterflam Wednesday June 20th, 2001 2:37:03 PM
Fluet follows the others. The bard feels somewhat out of place, and keeps to himself yet again.
Ingrge Wednesday June 20th, 2001 4:21:25 PM
Falling in besides Fluet, Ingrge watches the quiet Bard. "I'd offer you a few coppers for your thoughts, But I don't have any. You've been awfully quiet as of late, is there anything wrong?"
Brother Bertram Wednesday June 20th, 2001 8:39:44 PM
Bertram follows along besides Milo, keeping an eye about for any hostile creatures, big or little.
Dakar Wednesday June 20th, 2001 10:04:18 PM
Dakar passes by Bertram and milo, being the last one out of the main cavern, but moving to the front of the rest of the party, patting both on the shoulder as he passes. "We small priests must keep the tall ones alive, it seems, eh? Brother, when we have passed all this, we should discuss our differences in interpreting the catechisms of Domi." He then moves onwards, joining Orgar at the front of the group, axe readied for fighting once more.
Milo d20+14=29 Thursday June 21st, 2001 1:03:29 AM
Milo stalks beside Bertram, his footfalls making absolutely no sound. His head swivels from side to side as he looks and listens for any signs of attack. (OOC: Move Silently DC 29)
K'Nara Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:53:51 AM
As the party traveled to their newest destination, K'Nara said in a deceptively amiable voice:
"The Green One is definitely up to something. I saw a marked increase in his...security personnel topside when that lackey of his insisted on getting a progress report. It will behoove us, I think, to meditate on creative escapes because I believe the sheer number of men that now guard the exit of this mine will make it near impossible to fight our way out...when the time comes."
Green Goo? (dm sam) Thursday June 21st, 2001 9:05:11 AM
traveling back to the fork in the cave, Orgar leads the party about 20 ft into it and stops. he points to an area that is obviously scorched from flames. just by looking at the area, its easy to tell that there is nothing left in the area. "I guess we did too good of a job." Orgar says a bit sheepishly.
Figment Thursday June 21st, 2001 1:04:19 PM
"I would recommend we use covert means to leave the area, K'Nara - regardless of how many soldiers there are. In fact, I suppose we could get some of the bug acid and use it to dig a new tunnel out of here if we had to.".
When they arrive at the goo, the mage looks over the mess for anything that might be of interest - but not holding up much hope. He tries to determine if there is/was anything underneath the now crumbly goo (to include doors or openings) by poking around in it with an unlit torch or any stick he might find. "No worry Orgar, I would rather know the threat is neutralized than have to be concerned about it.".
Flueterflam Thursday June 21st, 2001 4:09:22 PM
Fluet turns to the elf, "I don't know....it's just that.....hey, wait, since when were YOU one to try comforting someone?" The bard suddenly realizes what he said and, "Ooops, I didn't mean that as harshly as it sounded, I was curious more than anything. Anyway, I just feel kinda useless down here. It's almost like I'm just here to watch the rest of you save us from these bugs. "Also....I was kinda thinking about visiting my parents. I haven't seen them for awhile, basically when I left and grouped up with you guys. I just wanna say 'hi'. And I want to see how things've changed. It seems like we've been gone forever. "On the other hand, I want to get out from under Big Green's watchful eye. I feel I've been stuck under his rule forever. It's like I have no control over anything in my life.......Yeah, well, um, I suppose that's mostly what I've been thinking about."
Olana Thursday June 21st, 2001 5:47:44 PM
The elf smiles at the bard. "Keep your chin up Fluet - but not too high or you'll bump your head...". She snickers as she marches.
Brother Bertram Thursday June 21st, 2001 8:56:20 PM
Bertram grins as the Dakar heads by. "Indeed Brother. I would welcome the chance to learn how you interpret the teachings." Bertram shakes his head bemusedly, surprised by Dakar's quick mood swings. Bertram then gets back to business, alert for any problems.
Ingrge Thursday June 21st, 2001 9:50:12 PM
Grinning from ear to ear, See Now I took your mind off of things for a moment. As for Family, I haven't had real family for as long as i can remember. You all are my family now, and though the Emerald Kingdom is my home, I too would relish some time away from the ever watching green eye. I feel though that we are tied to him in some way that goes beyond the physical.
Dakar Thursday June 21st, 2001 11:24:35 PM
The dwarf looks at the pile of goo. "I still say it's odd..." He looks further down the passage. "So do we go down this way now? Orgar, you're our guard, are you not? Lead the way."
Milo Friday June 22nd, 2001 4:00:30 AM
Milo does his best to ignore the conversation going on around him, being more concerned about the possibility of ambush. Short sword at the ready, he continues to listen carefully for any further signs of bugs, large or small.
K'Nara d20-1=5 Friday June 22nd, 2001 6:49:54 AM
K'Nara was also attempting to keep an ear out for those tell-tale bug sounds, but the conversation around her, alas, cut into her concentration so that she ended up not listening very well. (OOC: that's a Listen check I made--only 5.)
"We'll have to think of something, Figment." the leader of the Emerald Talons murmured. "But I'm sure we will come up with a plan." She hoped.
"And Orgar is our guide, Dakar," K'Nara went on to say, "NOT our guard--no more of these dwarves die...not on our time!"
Ashy Goo(dm sam) Friday June 22nd, 2001 9:24:29 AM
as Darkar and Figment look through the remains of goo, K'nara and Milo keep an eye out for trouble. the goo is nothing but ash, and Figment's prodding doesnt reveal any trap doors or holes. K'nara isnt able to tell if anything is around them or not, but Milo is fairly certain that there isnt anything around in the immedialy area that could threaten them. "Ill lead you into the cavern when you are all ready." Orgar says, "Though its a bit longer walk that the southern cave."
Figment Friday June 22nd, 2001 10:42:50 AM
The mage shrugs his shoulders after his examination. "Nothing here. Let's move on.". He takes his place in the lineup as they depart.
Olana Friday June 22nd, 2001 12:48:11 PM
The elf saunters along with everyone - hoping they don't find too many of the little buggers at once.
Brother Bertram Friday June 22nd, 2001 9:39:13 PM
Bertram follows along, alert for any signs of predators.
Dave Friday June 22nd, 2001 10:31:28 PM
((Meant guide, typed guard. bit of brain to fingers communication problem))
Flueterflam Saturday June 23rd, 2001 12:43:35 AM
To Ingrge, "Yeah, I suppose you're right. On both accounts, that is. Thanks. Sometimes when I'm thinkin' about something, I just get caught up in it." "Well, however tied in with him we are, and no matter how this ends up, we definitely need to take a break after this."
Milo Monday June 25th, 2001 12:13:01 AM
Milo stalks along the tunnel, wound like a coiled snake ready to strike at a moment's notice. His ears and eyes are wide open to whatever may come.
K'Nara Monday June 25th, 2001 6:03:37 AM
"Well, then, Orgar..." the human bladesinger said warmly, "...we'd best all start walking--the sooner we get there, the sooner we can clear out these caves for you and your clan!"
Whats That?(dm sam) Monday June 25th, 2001 9:36:43 AM
(i need the marching order that you are all in) Orgar leads the party deeper into the cave. after about 50 feet, Orgar signals everone to stop. "Listen..." he whispers(make listen check of 15)
Milo d20+6=22 Monday June 25th, 2001 2:40:47 PM
Walking at the rear of the party, Milo, who already seems tense, stops to listen very intently. (Made Listen check DC 22) His bejeweled short sword can be seen flashing occasionally in the dim light.
Brother Bertram d20+6=16 Monday June 25th, 2001 3:40:14 PM
Bertram moves along, abreast with Milo looking for any signs of trouble. Hearing something Bertam listens intently trying to identify the sound.
Dakar d20+2=5 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 12:00:10 AM
Dakar stops and raises his ear, and his eyebrow. "I cannae hear anything down the tunnel." he finally says, gruffly. "What of the rest of you?"
K'Nara d20-1=18 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 5:56:13 AM
Marching Order (single file): Milo, Dakar, Ingrge, K'Nara, Figment, Fluet, Olana, Brother Bertram. (double line will have Milo & Dakar in the front rank, then Ingre & K'Nara, etc.)
K'Nara froze and tilted her head to one side as Dakar asked his question. (Rolled 18 for listen, so I think she hears whatever there is to hear.)
Ingrge d20+2=10 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 8:59:24 AM
Lost in his own thoughts, Ingrge doesnt here a thing out side of the conversation in his head.
Flueterflam d20=2 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 9:19:47 AM
Noticing those in front of him stop, the bard thinks to himself, 'they're all paranoid'. Then he begins whistling out loud as though there was nothing to worry about.
Mixed signals(dm sam) Tuesday June 26th, 2001 9:26:59 AM
for just an instant, everyone a faint chirping, like crickets or grasshoppers or some other kind of bug, but Fluet's whistling drowns out the noise instantly(make listening check of 22 to continue hearing the noise)
Milo d20+6=23 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 10:41:47 AM
Milo turns and looks at Flueterflam, holding his forefinger to his lips, the halfling whispers, "Quiet, I hear something." Then, at point, he takes a few steps away from the group... and refocuses on the strange sounds, attempting to identify their source and direction. (OOC: Made listen check DC 23)
Brother Bertram d20+6=21 Tuesday June 26th, 2001 9:43:41 PM
Bertram looks at the bard with anger in his eyes. "Your a complete idiot! Bertram tries to hear the noise again but now there is only silence.
Flueterflam Tuesday June 26th, 2001 10:07:51 PM
"Oh," he laughs embarrassedly, "I thought you guys were just scared or something." The bard stops whistling for fear of a beating.
K'Nara d20-1=8 Wednesday June 27th, 2001 6:23:50 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons shook her head.
"Damn...I don't hear a thing anymore...Milo..? Ingrge..? Olana..?" K'Nara checked with the others.
Ingrge Wednesday June 27th, 2001 9:25:43 AM
having not heard the sound before, keeps quiet but still hears nothing but the sounds of breathing by his party members.
Sound founded(dm sam) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 9:45:44 AM
somehow Milo is able to hear the chirping noise over Fluet's whistling. he can tell its originating from in front of him, probably about 10 to 20 feet. once Fluet stops whistling, the chirping stops and there is only silence in the cave
Milo d20+8=22 Wednesday June 27th, 2001 11:09:25 AM
Motioning for everyone behind him to stop, Milo reaches into his pocket, and pulling out a gold coin, begins to pray in whispers, "Sweet Alemi, illuminate the path before me, that I might see the dangers lurking in the shadows therein." Suddenly, the gold coin blazes with brilliant light. (OOC: cast light on the gold piece) Holding it aloft, Milo pitches the lighted gold coin about ten feet in front of him, in the middle of the passage. (OOC: Hit the floor AC 22, dead on where I wanted it)
K'Nara Thursday June 28th, 2001 5:58:06 AM
The human bladesinger stood ready with her flaming sword in hand, trying to use its light to see farther than ten or twenty feet.
Ingrge Thursday June 28th, 2001 9:38:02 AM
Seing the others getting ready, Ingrge prpares to do what he can to assist in the endeavor about to ocur. As he does so he turns his head slightly to speak to K'narra. "I think we should try to save what magic we have to use on the big bug, but I will use what I can to help here as well."
Flueterflam Thursday June 28th, 2001 10:18:55 AM
"There's something strange about this..." Fluet looks to the others, knowing some of them heard something. "What if whatever you hear isn't a bug?"
Brother Bertram Thursday June 28th, 2001 9:16:04 PM
Bertram looks to Fluet, still annoyed. "We would KNOW what it is if you hadn't ran your mouth" Bertram glares for a moment then turns back to see what is revealed.
Olanna Friday June 29th, 2001 7:52:45 AM
Turning to Bertram, "Hey look Bertie, we all have been talking and making noise. It's just unlucky we needed quiet at this moment. I guess we all have learned something."
Figment Friday June 29th, 2001 7:57:11 AM
The mage showing some irritation at his fellow party members whispers I would suggest we get ready to defend ourselves I expect that between burning that goo and frying mama back there our next opponents will be ready for us and might be laying in wait.
False alarm(dm sam) Friday June 29th, 2001 8:49:02 AM
Milo's coin bangs noisely down the tunnel and comes to a stop. what he sees next to the coin comes as a bit of a shock. scampering away from the coin he sees three small crickets. Orgar says to Milo "I guess I forgot to mention that there are alot of cave crickets down here."
Flueterflam Friday June 29th, 2001 12:02:47 PM
"Sorry Bertram. Just don't think sometimes." The bard proceeds to whistle as quietly as he can, hoping to stir up the crickets.
Milo d20+14=17 Friday June 29th, 2001 12:03:37 PM
Without word, Milo turns from Orgar, to motion the group forward. Continuing down the passage about ten feet in front of the main group, Milo reaches down to deftly snag the lighted coin from the ground, and uses it as a light source for the remainder of the spell's duration. (OOC: Move silently DC 17)
Brother Bertram Friday June 29th, 2001 9:15:48 PM
Bertram eyes Olana for a moment. "I would hate to fight you Friend Olana but I swear if you EVER call me Bertie again......" Bertram tries to look fierce then breaks into a quick smile. "My apologies to you as well Friend Fluet. We shall indeed get through this together."
Dakar Friday June 29th, 2001 10:06:20 PM
"Crickets, rending bugs, makes no difference to me. All of them can bleed, all can die" says the dwarf, grinning.
Olanna Saturday June 30th, 2001 11:48:55 AM
Smiling at Bertram's response, Olanna says nothing and continues on.
Ingrge Saturday June 30th, 2001 11:51:17 AM
As Ingrge listens to the banter tween Bertram and Olanna, Ingrge can't help but grin and with a nod towards dakar, sends a quick comment Bertram's way, "Yes But then who is going to bring you back to health?"
Figment Saturday June 30th, 2001 11:53:31 AM
following along, Figment seems lost in his own world, but is in truth working through spells and possibilities of defense for the upcoming moments.
K'Nara Monday July 2nd, 2001 5:37:28 AM
K'Nara hid a smile at the sound of the talk between the Talons--it kind of reminded her of home, and the minor squabbles that occurred between her brothers and sisters.
"Let's keep going, Orgar," she told the guide, "I'd rather have this unruly crew bash the bugs than each other." K'Nara chuckled and continued to follow the miner dwarf to their ultimate destination.
Figment (Played again by DEH) d20+13=31 Monday July 2nd, 2001 1:17:40 PM
The mage stops for a moment. "Orgar, how long have the crickets been in the caves?". he picks up one of the little buggers and examines it carefully for any kind of alchemic manipulation. He also looks for any similarities it might have to the bugs they are looking for. (INT DC 31)
Olana Monday July 2nd, 2001 3:49:28 PM
The elf looks at the bugs. "I never liked bugs. They crawl on you when you sleep - give me nightmares.".
Brother Bertram Monday July 2nd, 2001 10:00:43 PM
Bertram leans toward Olana with an impish grin. "I have the heard the same can be said of Elven Lads as well, Friend Olana"
Going on(dm sam) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 7:33:32 AM
(sorry about yesterday, i kept getting bad connections and couldnt stay logged on longer than 2 minuets) "Oh, they've been here as long as I can remember." Orgar says to Figment, then he moves on with Milo. after his examination, Figment concludes that they are just ordinaly crickets. Orgar catches up with Milo just before he starts off and says "Watch your step, this part of the cavern hasnt been smoothed out yet, the floor still has small stalatites protruding from it."
Figment Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 2:09:20 PM
"If the mage didn't bring in any bugs then he used or is using the existing bugs for a starting point. Orgar, have you noticed any changes the way any of these bugs have behaved recently. Also, are there other types of bugs down here?".
Milo d20+14=21 Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:32:17 PM
Looking at Orgar wryly, "Of course." Milo picks his way through the rough tunnel quickly and quietly. (OOC: Made Move silently check at DC 21)
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:32:42 PM
Bertram keeps watch for any trouble as the others question thier dwarven guide.
Ingrge(Kent) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 11:38:43 PM
(OOC Hey guys Im in greece until july 21 so can somebody play ingrge for me or he will just tag along)
Dakar Wednesday July 4th, 2001 2:14:20 PM
Dakar picks his way around the stones, eyes carefully peering into the darkness ahead and his axe constantly at the ready for any sign of conflict and danger. "Well the crickets may be a sign of greater things to come, methinks."
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 4th, 2001 8:41:25 PM
(OOC Kent and I both will be gone. I leave today for vacation and will be gone until a week from Sunday.. If no one plays Bertram he will tag along helping as the DM feels proper. Sorry for bailing on ya all!)
K'Nara Thursday July 5th, 2001 6:15:38 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons stepped lively as she made sure that her feet were placed properly in stalagmite-free areas.
"Shouldn't be too much longer to that other bug now..." she said out loud.
(OOC: hmmm...now we have three PCs requiring others to RP for them; I'm already trying to handle MDM business as well as someone else's PC in another game--are there any takers for Ingrge and Brother Bertram? If not, perhaps we should consider suspending posting here until two out of the last three players return to online life..?)
Going Forward(dm sam) Thursday July 5th, 2001 8:39:17 AM
(ill take controll of Ingrge and Bertram, unless someone else wants to or if you all want to wait a week) "As far as I know, there are only crickets." Orgar says, then he moves along with Milo, leading everyone deeper into the cave
Figment Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:15:04 AM
The mage moves along with the others, continually searching for clues to the origins of the smaller bugs.
(I already have Olana for a spell so I'll decline taking any of the others unless absolutely needed.)
Olana Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:21:03 AM
The elf stealthily moves along with the others. She nocks an arrow in her short bow - mindful of her damaged armor.
Flueterflam Thursday July 5th, 2001 1:19:56 PM
Muttering quietly to himself, "Darn caves...and underground...I need to get out in the open after this..."
K'Nara d20-1=7 d20-1=5 Friday July 6th, 2001 6:19:45 AM
The tall redheaded bladesinger continued to follow Orgar, pausing occasionally to try to hear or attempt to squint into the gloomy areas as the party passed through. (OOC: made voluntary Listen and Spot checks, but I doubt that either 7 or 5 would be high enough.) K'Nara hoped that they reached their destination soon--holding up a flaming bastard sword like a torch wasn't easy!
Yuck(dm sam) Friday July 6th, 2001 9:52:37 AM
as everyone continues to walk, Milo suddenly sensed that something isnt right about the ground hes walking on(make spot check of 15 Milo)
Milo d20=7 d20+9=14 Friday July 6th, 2001 11:35:44 AM
Milo stops right in his tracks, his head jerking down to see what he has stepped in. Not seeing the immediate cause of his dismay, he backpedals in order to get a better look. (OOC: Spot check at DC 7, and voluntary Reflex save at DC 14)
K'Nara Monday July 9th, 2001 6:01:02 AM
"Milo..?" K'Nara asked as she saw the rogue-cum-cleric suddenly reverse direction. "...What is it..?"
Slimy Stuff(dm sam) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 9:41:17 AM
Milo jumps back just in time, avoiding stepping in what appears to be a small patch of slime. Orgar sees Milo move and looks down. "That stuff looks like the stuff we burnt earlier..."
Milo d20+8=12 Tuesday July 10th, 2001 11:05:08 AM
Turning his head to look back at K'nara, Milo clearly has a sour expression on his face, "Its more of that slime on the floor." The halfling quickly scrapes his boots off on a nearby stone, and then turns back to the passage to see if there is a way around the slime. (OOC: Voluntary Search check DC 12)
Dakar Tuesday July 10th, 2001 11:26:03 AM
"Something is probably leaving it behind as a trail. A good sign that we may have a strong fight ahead, I think." The dwarf shrugs. "Well, whatever it is, I shall be ready to slay it."
Figment d20+4=24 Tuesday July 10th, 2001 12:58:55 PM
"Orgar, has this stuff been around before or is it new.". The mage moves over and examines the stuff carefully. Hoping this search will reveal more about it than the last one (Int DC 24!). He also tries to remember if the stench from the burning slime smelled anything like the dead giant beetle that the dwarves were carrying out of the cavern entrance when they first arrived.
Olana Tuesday July 10th, 2001 12:59:45 PM
The elf frowns at the mess. "All these things leaving messes. No wonder they want them gone so bad...".
K'Nara Wednesday July 11th, 2001 6:14:43 AM
The tall redhead rubbed her chin after hearing Milo's announcement.
"Keep your eyes peeled, then--this could mean that there were more of them smaller bugs that got to hatch before the rest of the mess was burned." K'Nara pointed out.
Yuck(dm sam) Thursday July 12th, 2001 7:12:26 AM
Milo only sees small patches of slime, but the further down the cave he looks, the thicker the slime gets.Figment cant really tell any similarites because all he smelled previously was smoke. Orgar says to Figment. "This is the stuff we burnt before, bet there wasnt any down this way."
Figment Thursday July 12th, 2001 9:56:45 AM
"Well, it got all over Dakar and didn't appear to cause him any trouble so I guess I'd say we should continue. Perhaps burning this stuff would be OK at some point - but let's do it later. It's hard to say if this stuff is the precursor to the bugs - or left by them. Let me check something...". The mage casts detect magic on the ooze - just to make sure.
Flueterflam Thursday July 12th, 2001 5:00:43 PM
"I never did like slime..." the bard utters as he waits towards the rear of the group to decide on a course of action.
Olana Thursday July 12th, 2001 5:32:57 PM
The elf frowns at the messy ooze. "Gross! Oh well, I suppose this is what we get when we are commanded to do the lizard's dirty work - or would that be slimy work?".
K'Nara Friday July 13th, 2001 7:02:37 AM
"Well...slime or no slime, let's go get us that other big bug..!" the leader of the Emerald Talons urged her party, looking pointedly at Orgar, who seemed to K'Nara to be taking a longer time to get the group over to the site where that last giant beetle was located than was necessary...but that was just K'Nara's opinion.
Dakar Sunday July 15th, 2001 3:08:33 PM
"Let's hustle here. If we see anything else we must euither immediatly engage or keep moving. None of this waiting around businesss if we want to hit the creature before it spawns again."
Milo d20+6=20 Monday July 16th, 2001 2:26:48 AM
Turning back around, Milo continues down the passage, more carefully than ever before. He holds his short sword, gripped tightly in his small hand, and strains to hear any noise. (OOC: Made voluntary listen check DC 20)
Ut Oh(Dm sam) Monday July 16th, 2001 9:25:05 AM
Milo, moving just a bit ahead of the others, travels for about 20 ft until he hears a noise around the next corner. after listening for a moment, he realizes that it sounds like the cracking of claws on stone, though he will have to turn the corner and look to verify it.
Milo d20+14=27 d20+14=30 Monday July 16th, 2001 5:31:29 PM
Clinging to the side of the cavern wall, and moving as quietly as he can, Milo turns the corner to get a view of the noisemaker. His short sword is held at the ready, as he hopes to surprise his opponent. (OOC: Made Hide and Move Silently rolls at DCs 27 and 30 respectively)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20-1=15 d20+5=18 Tuesday July 17th, 2001 5:36:41 AM
K'Nara followed the passageway carefully, then paused when she noticed Milo's suddenly stealthy approach to the turn in the tunnel.
"Shhhh--I think Milo may be on to something..." the human bladesinger said, waving to the others to try to be quiet and to slow down a bit. Then she, too, stepped as silently as possible over to where the halfling was peeking around the corner. (OOC: first roll was voluntary Spot check; second was Move Silently.)
There They Are(dm sam) d20+6=11 d20+6=17 Tuesday July 17th, 2001 7:39:49 AM
Milo, peeking around the corner, discovers not one but several of the small beetles eating on some long dead animal. when K'nara comes forward to join him, she stumbles just a bit on some loose rock, but the bugs are so consumed in what they are eating they take no notice of the noise(Milo and K'nara may attack this round if they wish, but everyone else must spend a turn moving up to the corner)
Milo d20+5=25 d20+5=11 d20+5=21 4d6(2+6+6+6)+1=21 4d6(3+2+1+5)+1=12 Tuesday July 17th, 2001 12:23:51 PM
Milo's arcane short sword blurs into motion as the halfling moves to dispatch the nearest beetle. He takes grim delight as his blade strikes a pair of solid blows upon the feasting insect. (OOC: First die roll is a critical threat with nat. 20, but not confirmed on an 11, so regular damage. Second die roll due to short sword of speed hits AC 21. Both attacks are sneak attacks for 21 and 12 hps respectively. Total is 33 hps damage.)
Flueterflam Tuesday July 17th, 2001 1:21:32 PM
Noticing that something is going on, the bard unsheathes his +1 dagger. He follows the others in the party towards K'nara and Milo.
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 17th, 2001 9:48:44 PM
Bertram readies his great axe and follows the others into combat.
(OOC Bertram is back in business and back from Vacation!)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20+7=15 d10+2=7 d6=3 Wednesday July 18th, 2001 6:51:08 AM
The woman warrior frowned a bit at her own clumsiness--mostly because it was so unexpected--then, peering at the bugs and seeing that there are several there, waved her hand to get everyone else's attention.
Not saying a word, K'Nara held her flaming sword in one hand, and then silently counted off the number of bugs that she could see by miming the count in over-exaggerated movements using her free hand. (OOC: you didn't specify the number, Sam, so I can't say exactly how many of them there are for the party to rumble with.)
Milo attacked the nearest bug just as she finished, however, so K'Nara immediately swooped upon the one next to it, slashing downwards with her fiery blade...
(OOC: Hits AC15 for 7hp damage and 3hp fire damage.)
Olana d20+11=27 d6+3=7 Wednesday July 18th, 2001 9:22:28 AM
Olana moves up and readies her short bow. When she sees the bugs feasting she squeaks out, "Bugs are so gross!"
Figment Wednesday July 18th, 2001 9:25:47 AM
Figment steps up and calls out, "I'm going to cast a web on them. Don't get too close until it's in place. Then burn them!"
Round One(dm sam) d20+2=22 d20+2=3 d20+2=8 d20+2=14 d20+2=15 d20+2=15 2d6(2+1)+5=8 Wednesday July 18th, 2001 11:01:24 AM
K'nara and Milo move in to attack, while Figment, Fluet, Olana, and Bertram move to the corner. the others stay where they are. Now that they are closer, Milo and K'nara count 15 of the things. Milo's sudden attack kills one ot the creatures, but K'nara isnt so lucky, her sword missing its target. in response to the attack, ALL the beetles turn and attack the two adventures, though only a few can actually attack. three of them attack Milo, one of them hitting for 8 pts of damage. another 3 move on K'nara, but all three miss their attacks. the other beetles move around the 2 heros, looking for a place to attack. realizing that they are needed, Ingrge and Orgar move up to the corner and prepare to attack.(all the beetles are within 10 ft of Milo and K'nara. everone can see them and attack except Darkar, who hasnt moved.)
Milo d20+5=20 d20+5=13 d6+1=7 d20+10=27 Thursday July 19th, 2001 3:42:15 AM
Seeing his plight, Milo realizes that he moved way too soon on this group, "By Alemi's gray beard there are a lot of these things... HELP guys, HELP!" Milo swings his short sword furiously, striking a single solid blow upon the next available target, and then performs a quick somersault, attempting to get into a flanking position. (OOC: Hit AC 20 once for 7 hps damage, and pretty sure I missed on an AC 13. Made a tumble check in order to maneuver into a flanking position for next round at DC 27)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20+7=18 d10+2=6 d6=4 Thursday July 19th, 2001 5:58:11 AM
K'Nara's sword descended once more upon the bug closest to her. (OOC: Hits AC18 for 6hp damage plus 4hp fire damage.)
"If you're gonna Web these suckers, Figment--" the tall redhead yelled, "--aim careful and do it NOW..!"
Figment Thursday July 19th, 2001 3:36:22 PM
Figment steps up and casts a web. Anchoring it to the side of the passage and the floor, he casts so that it appears just past Milo and K'Nara and hopefully right on top of the bugs.
Olana d20+11=27 d6+3=8 Thursday July 19th, 2001 3:39:36 PM
Without waiting to see how Figment's spell will work, Olana crouches down and fires an arrow at one of the bugs on K'Nara.
(hits AC27 for 8 pts)
Brother Bertram Thursday July 19th, 2001 9:13:00 PM
Bertram waits to see the effects of Figment's spell. He has his axe readied in case the spell fails to work.
Flueterflam Thursday July 19th, 2001 9:30:44 PM
The bard moves next to where Milo and K'nara are running to. He readies himself for any bug not trapped under the webbing.
Round 2 (dm sam) d20+2=15 d20+2=22 d20+2=19 d20+2=21 d20+2=20 d20+2=18 d20+2=19 d20+2=7 d20+2=13 d20+2=4 d20+2=14 d20+2=18 d20+2=8 d20+2=7 d20+2=4 2d4(1+1)+1=3 d20+2=17 Sunday July 22nd, 2001 5:43:59 AM
Milo is able to slash one of the bugs attacking him, but K'nara's blow once again just misses her target. Milo is able to move onto the bug's flank, but just as he gets there Figment's web goes off, entangling him along with all the bugs(make reflex saving throw at 16). after the spell goes off, Olana fires her arrow, and somehow it navigates through the webs and hits a beetle. Figment's spell catches all the beetles, but it seems that only about half the beetles are immobile. 5 of the 6 beetles that attacked Milo and K'nara push themselves through the web, though they seem to of exhaused themselves momentairly and are unable to attack. two more of the beetles move to the front of the web. seeing some of the creature break out, Ingrge mutters a few quick words and 2 bolts of light shoot out of his hand, striking one of the bugs for 4 pts of damage, and Orgar heads for the nearest one, but his warhammer bounces off its hard caprice. Darkar seems frozen in place, not moving a muscle
Milo d20+9=22 Sunday July 22nd, 2001 12:41:49 PM
Milo lands squarely in position to flank, looking up, he sees Figment and watches in horror as webs spring forth, entangling everything around him. He envisions himself, however briefly, caught in webs with these nasty vermin, and then, with practiced reflexes, Milo springs once again to the side, and then towards his friends, just barely escaping the web spell. (OOC: Made my reflex save DC 22, and the rogue's evasion ability allow me to completely avoid the spell.)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20+7=23 d10+2=11 d6=5 Monday July 23rd, 2001 6:28:27 AM
Gnashing her teeth at how clumsy with her sword she had been of late, K'Nara spun the flaming blade expertly, driving it straight downwards in a savage thrust, letting out a yell as she did so.
(OOC: hits AC23 [this time I hope!!!] for 11hp damage plus 5hp fire damage.)
Figment 6d6(3+5+4+6+2+4)=24 Monday July 23rd, 2001 10:43:48 AM
Figment shouts at Milo, "What did I say?!"
Then the mage steps up takes careful aim so as not to hit Milo or K'nara and casts a lightning bolt through the bugs, hopefully sizzling them and catching the web on fire for even more damage.
(24 points dmg ea/DC19)
Olana d20+11=20 d6+3=8 Monday July 23rd, 2001 10:45:13 AM
Olana squints as the lightning bolt goes off and then fires in another arrow at a likely looking target.
(AC 20, 8 pts dmg)
Dakar d20+12=18 d10+7=14 Monday July 23rd, 2001 3:39:53 PM
Dakar charges at the closest Bug, singing his battle song. (AC 18, 14 damage). Turning to the others he wipes the chr off his axe and states something along the lines of "Sorry, my mind was elsewhere."
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 24th, 2001 7:22:30 AM
Bertram remains ready for any bug that comes near him or any of the spellcasters.
Round 3(dm sam) d20=2 d20=14 d20=10 d20=15 d20=8 d20=17 d20=3 d20=20 2d4(3+3)=6 Tuesday July 24th, 2001 9:34:49 AM
Milo just jumps free of the web spell. both K'nara and Olana hit their intended targets, with K'nara slaying the bug in front of her. Darkar finally joins the fray, but his attack misses. then Figment's lightning bolt goes off, zapping all the bugs up front, but missing 2 or 3 that were stuck in the back. then the web ignites. after the flash, no less that 9 of the beetles are charred husks, some of them still burning slightly. there are 4 of the monsters left, and seeing that there is easier meals avaliable, each one grabs one of the dead beetles and begins dragging them down the hall. after 10 ft, the passageway curves and they are momentarly out of sight
Dakar Tuesday July 24th, 2001 10:15:59 AM
"Shall we chase? I would prefer them all dead to one living and able to harm a brother dwarf." Dakar states simply. he seems relatively calm, not pushed into the crescendo of combat, of fury, that he usually is.
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 24th, 2001 10:26:54 PM
Bertram says to Dakar. "I would bide a moment, Brother. They may have run around that corner to thier foul mother.. Let us prepare for that eventuality then we shall go rain death on these vile creatures!"
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) Wednesday July 25th, 2001 8:39:12 AM
"Everyone okay..?" K'Nara asked, looking around. Once she determined that everyone in the party was, indeed, all right, she nodded to Milo.
"We'll follow--carefully! We haven't been in this part of the caverns before, so watch for stalagmites and sink holes and stuff..." With this, the tall human female made her way forward by the flickering light of her magic sword.
Moving on(dm sam) Wednesday July 25th, 2001 9:23:53 AM
as K'nara, Bertran, and Darkar discuss what to do next, Orgar moves up to them and says. "There isnt that long to go. Just a few hundred feet until we get to the last chamber."
Figment Wednesday July 25th, 2001 10:43:28 AM
Figment taps one of the bug husks with his foot as they move by, "Anyone hungry? They're already cooked."
Olana Wednesday July 25th, 2001 10:44:02 AM
Olana stares at Figment a moment and says, "That's just nasty."
Milo d8+1=4 d20+14=24 d20+14=28 Wednesday July 25th, 2001 11:45:45 AM
Obviously injured, Milo reaches into his satchel, retrieving a vial that he has been saving for just such an occasion, and quickly drinks it. As he does so, his wound closes partly, and he returns the nod to K'nara, heading down the passageway as steathily as before. (OOC: Drank potion of cure light wounds for 4 hps; Made Move Silently and Hide checks at DCs 24 and 28 respectively)
Moving On, pt2(dm sam) Thursday July 26th, 2001 6:26:49 AM
Milo turns the corner and moves into the passageway. though he can't see the beetles, he can still hear them drag the dead carcases
K'Nara d20+4=8 Thursday July 26th, 2001 7:20:48 AM
The redhead was not so stealthy as Milo (OOC: her Move Silently check is a mere 8!) as she sidled down the passage--K'Nara's eagerness to finish off the bugs obviously effected her approach to the nasty little fighters.
Figment (Again played by DEH - Thanks!) Thursday July 26th, 2001 10:32:53 AM
The mage smiles as he moves on by the beetles. "That was more effective than I expected it would be. I can do that one more time so if we're near the end of this, let me do it again if possible.". He hurries along, hunched over with the rest of them, wanting to complete this task and sooth his aching back.
Brother Bertram Thursday July 26th, 2001 2:56:45 PM
"It was indeed effective, Friend Figment! By all means use it again. It might only amuse the mother beetle, but if it takes care of these pesky little ones it is well worth it!"
Flueterflam Thursday July 26th, 2001 5:00:56 PM
The bard quietly follows the others and wonders why he just stood there and watched the recent battle without taking part in it.
Milo d20+14=28 d20+14=21 Thursday July 26th, 2001 6:48:52 PM
Continuing to move as quiet as a mouse, Milo pick's up the pace a bit, mainly in an attempt to both catch up with the critters, as well as stay astride of his friends and their long legged gait. His short sword rests easily on his shoulder, so he may bring it about in his own defense within a moment's notice. (OOC: Made Move silently and Hide checks at DCs 28 and 21 respectively.)
Near the End(dm sam) Friday July 27th, 2001 7:30:01 AM
with Milo in the lead, everone travels down the tunnel. after only moving for just a couple of minuets, everone can see that the tunnel ends in a big cavern. though they cant see inside, the party can hear the tell tale sounds of insects moving about
Dakar Friday July 27th, 2001 9:22:31 AM
Dakar readies his axe and nods to the others. "Today," he states "Seems like an assuredly good day to die." His trademark berserker smile covers his face, while his eye seem to flash with red. "Begin the bombardment, we shall clean up the leftovers."
Flueterflam Friday July 27th, 2001 5:08:37 PM
In a tone attempting to lighten the mood for the most likely oncoming onslaught, "Why is it always 'a good day to die'?"
Brother Bertram Friday July 27th, 2001 9:35:41 PM
Bertram chuckles at the bard's murmured words. "Its a fine day to die indeed, as long as its the bugs that are doing the dying."
Milo Saturday July 28th, 2001 5:39:53 AM
Giving Dakar a foul look, Milo sees that he will not be needed in melee combat, and quickly sheaths his short sword, pulling out his short bow and knocking an arrow. "It is never a good day to die... harumph."
Figment d6=3 d6=5 d6=5 d6=6 d6=3 d6=5 Sunday July 29th, 2001 12:47:03 PM
The mage decides to let the Painmonger have whatever visions make him ready for battle as he moves toward the cavern opening. Deciding on his course of action he says "Stay back as long as you can. I'm going to lead off with a fireball, since it will be of no use when we all get into the cavern. If you can hold the line at the cavern entrance I'll then use my web lightning bolt combination.".
When he can see into the cavern - and while the group is still back from the entrance, he casts his fireball into the cavern entrance (29 DMG - Reflex sv for 1/2). "Here we go...".
Ingrge Sunday July 29th, 2001 7:48:55 PM
Walking up to the cavern entrance with Figment He peers in to see what can be seen and moments later, 10 ft in front of him and to the right of the cavern entry a large sphere of fire appears ready to move at Ingrge's direction.
Brother Bertram Sunday July 29th, 2001 9:07:56 PM
Bertram readies his axe, clearly out of his element as the spellcasters prepare. He waits to see if he will be needed.
K'Nara (casting True Strike on herself) d100=97 Monday July 30th, 2001 6:13:33 AM
Awaiting the results of Figment's fireball, K'Nara suddenly remembered that she had rudimentary magics of her own...maybe now would be a good time to practice the art of combining them with her combat skills..?
She concentrated on the effect she wished to weave into her combat--that of striking her chosen target. There was a surge of tingling energy as K'Nara drew forth the arcane power and held it in reserve until she would need it to hit at one of the giant bugs.
(OOC: rolled to see if her spell failed due to her wearing her Studded Leather armor; she made the roll and will have True Strike in effect the next time she swings in combat.)
Light it UP (DM Chris) d20=5 d20=3 d20=2 d20=7 d20=6 d20=15 d20=4 d20+8=10 Monday July 30th, 2001 1:10:48 PM
As Figment steps up to the cavern entrance and unleashes his fireball upon the enemy, the entire cave is briefly lit with the resulting display, allowing the group to see perhaps the largest bug they have yet to encounter. The fireball burns deeply into the creature, and completely incinerates the six smaller critters that were unlucky enough to share the cavern. Out of pure reflex, the monstrous emerald beetle ejects a blast of venom from its posterior, narrowly missing Figment, to strike the wall beside the opening, sizzling and bubbling as it slides down the stone which more closely resembles melted wax. Whirling around to face Figment, the creature's mandibles click together in agitation as it prepares to charge forward.
Figment Monday July 30th, 2001 1:48:21 PM
The mage holds the line casts a web on the creature - anchoring it to the wall of the cavern but knowing it will easily break free.
Figment, cont. Monday July 30th, 2001 1:54:18 PM
He yells to Ingrge, "Roll that thing onto the webs!".
Olana d20+11=30 d20+11=18 d20+11=17 d6+1=7 d6+1=4 d6+1=5 Monday July 30th, 2001 2:08:54 PM
The elf moves to avoid the others and uses her archery skills. She looses an arrow at the creature striking it with great precision. "Eat that you rock muncher! Maybe it doesn't taste so well, eh?". (Hit AC 30 for 7 DMG - thought it was a critical but it wasn't).
Ingrge 2d6(3+3)=6 Monday July 30th, 2001 6:08:52 PM
As Figment casts his web and issues his direction, Ingrge is already moving the ball of fire toward the beast as he moves inward and around to the left side of the beetle. As the ball of fire meets web and beast, it flares up and does additional burning damage (6 points save DC 15)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on, True Strike) d20+20=37 d10+2=9 d6=6 Tuesday July 31st, 2001 6:03:53 AM
Immediately K'Nara executed a series of gracefully whirling leaps towards the colossal beetle, following the wake of Ingrge's rolling ball of fire. Her final leap brought the fiery edge of Lucia slashing around and downwards in a sort of roundhouse blow into the beastie's side. (OOC: the total for this True Strike-enhanced blow actually hits AC 47 for 9hp damage and 6hp fire damage.)
"Watch out for that acid-poison!" the human bladesinger yelled.
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 31st, 2001 8:35:33 PM
Bertram has his axe readied, ready to help if needed, but for the moment admiring the work of the spellcasters as they make easy work of the young.
Dakar d20+12=31 d10+9=16 Tuesday July 31st, 2001 11:12:50 PM
Dakar charges into the fray, swinging his axe widely and slamming into the creatures side (AC 31, 19 Damage).
Milo d20+9=19 d20+9=23 d6+1=5 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 12:10:52 AM
Stepping quickly into the room behind Dakar's charge, Milo pulls his short bow twice in rapid succession to watch his first shot go careening off of the beetle's massive carapace, and his second shot sink right in.
Into the Fray (DM Chris) d20+10=22 3d10(8+10+6)+5=29 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 12:35:38 AM
Burnt and bleeding, the huge bug lurches forward as Ingrge's flaming sphere and its own massive strength allow it freedom to attack. Enraged, the creature clamps its massive mandibles around Dakar, squeezing and rending the dwarf at the same time. (Dakar take 29 hps damage)
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) d20+7=27 d10+2=7 d20+7=25 d10+2=12 d6=5 d6=4 d10+2=9 d6=4 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 7:13:56 AM
(OOC: woohoo! Natural 20 on the first roll--just hope the second roll hits this big bug's armor class!)
"Dakar!!!" yelled the leader of the Emerald Talons. "Everybody--hit this {expletive deleted}--get Dakar free--NOW!!!" With a rather feral howl, K'Nara spins her large blade, driving the whirling weapon into the beetle multiple times. (First roll hits AC27 for 7hp damage & 5hp fire damage; second (critical) roll qualifies for x2 damage: 21hp damage and 8hp fire damage.)
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=2 d4+1=3 d4+1=4 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 11:11:58 AM
Seeing Dakar in the mandibles the mage opts for precision over damage. He holds his lightning bolt and fires his magic missle instead. (10 DMG)
Olana d20+8=27 d6+2=8 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 11:14:35 AM
The elf decides to fire yet another arrow and does so with great accuracy impaling the critter yet again (Hit AC 30 for 8 DMG). "Oh Dakar!" she exclaims as he fights for his life.
Ingrge d20+10=22 3d6(2+1+1)=4 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 7:21:53 PM
Having managed to get around to the side of the beast, Ingrge darts in and touches the beast on its side as he casts his spell Vampiric touch. (geesh 4 points damage and I gain 4 hps)
Brother Bertram d20+6=22 Wednesday August 1st, 2001 10:19:00 PM
Seeing Dakar in peril Bertram rushes in with his axe trying to help his dwarven brother.
Dakar d20+7=23 d10+10=18 Thursday August 2nd, 2001 12:14:49 AM
Dakar howls in pain and brings his axe down on the beetle's head (Subtract 2 from my last damage roll. This hit is a power attack). He ignroes his own bleeding and begins thrashing in the beetle's mandibles, trying to use his spikes to free himself.
Milo Thursday August 2nd, 2001 4:10:05 AM
Skirting around the side of the cave, Milo looks for an opening to fire at, as his companions close on the beast.
To the Bitter End(DM Chris) 3d10(7+1+10)+5=23 Thursday August 2nd, 2001 4:21:14 AM
Thrashing about furiously, the grinding of metal is heard as the huge beetle clamps down even harder upon Dakar, inflicting grievous wounds to the dwarf as well as his armor.
(Dakar take 23 hps and your splintmail is in need of repair/will only provide a +5 armor bonus until then.)
However, the Talons inflict their own punishment, and a final sickening crunch can be heard throughout the cavern as Dakar brings down his axe upon its head with what may be his last ounce of strength. With that, the hideous creature slumps to the ground and moves no more.
Two more of the strange metal spheres can be seen resting at the other end of the cavern.
K'Nara (Flaming Sword on) Thursday August 2nd, 2001 6:43:55 AM
"Heal up Dakar!" K'Nara barked to the clerics of the party, clumsily removing her backpack while keeping Lucia aloft to use as a light source. Placing her pack on the ground, the human woman knelt on one knee and used her free hand to open and then rummage through the supplies in the pack.
"If your magicks aren't enough..." K'Nara said gruffly as she removed three potion bottles, "I have curative potions here..." Her fingers traced the common lettering on each of the bottles: one had "CSW" on it, and two had "CLW".
Figment Thursday August 2nd, 2001 11:06:24 AM
The mage does not let down his guard but begins to skirt the cavern looking for any signs of other beetles. He makes his way over to the eggs. "Hmm... These eggs should be enough for the smiths to finish a weapon - not that it makes much difference now that we've killed these guys. We do still have that captured one. Maybe you guys could feed it ore and have it produce for you?".
Ingrge Thursday August 2nd, 2001 6:34:52 PM
Seeing the beetle finally fall, Ingrge steps around front and starts to help Get dakar out of the mandible and on to the floor where he can be tended to. "on our way back out, lets but that slimy stuff again, I swear it reminds me of Frogs eggs.
Flueterflam Friday August 3rd, 2001 6:43:48 PM
Realizing the whole battle happened as the bard sat watching wide-eyed, Fluet shakes his head, attempting to rid himself of whatever it was that dumbfounded him temporarily. He checks to make sure Dakar is being properly attended to, then asks, "Is there anything you need me to do?" His question directed mainly at K'nara, their fearless leader.
Milo d8+1=7 Saturday August 4th, 2001 5:31:19 PM
Milo warily stalks across the open cavern towards Dakar, looking this way and that for any sign of additional attackers. As he approaches the dwarf with outstretched hand, he is praying silently under his breath to Alemi. Touching Dakar gently on the cheek, there is a brief ruby glow, and he stops bleeding. (OOC: Dakar is healed 7 hps)
Another Hole?(DM Chris) Sunday August 5th, 2001 6:54:11 PM
Standing at the shiny metal eggs, Figment notices something on the wall opposite him, previously hidden by an outcropping of stone. There in the wall is a smooth tunnel hole about three feet wide and four feet high. It leads off into darkness.
K'Nara d20-1=9 Monday August 6th, 2001 6:09:07 AM
Still concerned about the grave injuries received by Dakar, K'Nara didn't notice that the Talons' resident mage had just noticed something new.
Figment Tuesday August 7th, 2001 9:58:00 AM
"Uh, guys. I've discovered another tunnel. Looks like our work isn't done just yet. I'll keep an eye/ear out until you all finish helping out Dakar.". The mage watches the tunnel closely and listens for any noises. He also examines the walls of the tunnel to determine how they were created. By acid, being hewn, etc.
Olana Tuesday August 7th, 2001 10:45:35 AM
The elven archer tries to see if her 2 arrows can be salvaged from the beast. "I think this one would be too big for a spit. I'm sure hoping we don't have to drag it out.".
Ingrge 2d8(6+4)+6=16 Tuesday August 7th, 2001 6:47:39 PM
Still working with Dakar, Ingrge is vaguely aware of the fact that something has been found in the cave. As he takes out a cure moderate wounds potion and pours it down Dakar's throat.(16 points returned)
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 7th, 2001 10:12:43 PM
Bertram stays with Dakar as the others go to examine something they have noticed. "Rest now Brother, you will soon be needed yet again. Rest while you can and gain some strength."
Milo d20+14=23 d20+6=24 Wednesday August 8th, 2001 3:01:44 AM
Seeing that Dakar is being well cared for, Milo stalks back across the cavern as quiet as a mouse, to stand beside Figment, and join in on the listening. (OOC: Made move silently and listen check at DCs 23 and 24 respectively)
Not a Creature was Stirring... (DM Chris) d20+2=6 d20+4=13 Wednesday August 8th, 2001 3:08:23 AM
As Dakar's wounds are being tended, Figment and Milo stand with baited breath, eyeing and listening carefully to any sound that may possibly come from the newly discovered tunnel. Funny as it may or may not seem, not a thing is to be heard.
Additionally, as Figment examines the walls, he finds it difficult to believe that the entire cavern was melted out by acid. Perhaps more likely that it was initially carved out with the sweat of dwarven labor, and only recently has taken on a melted appearance due to the expulsion of acid by the huge, but now dead bug.
K'Nara d20-1=18 Wednesday August 8th, 2001 7:50:05 AM
Once Dakar was seen to, K'Nara joined Milo and Figment.
"We'll have to collect those metal egg-thingies and give them to the dwarves here." she observed, then noticed (finally!) that there was another tunnel out of the area.
"Hmmmm...what do you two make of this..?" the tall redhead went right up to the opening and used Lucia like a torch in an effort to examine the tunnel and draw some rudimentary conclusions about it. (OOC: rolled a voluntary Spot check for 18.)
Figment Wednesday August 8th, 2001 5:04:54 PM
"Looks like one of these bugs - hopefully this one - went down a dwarven tunnel and zapped the sides with this acid to smooth it out. I'd say we continue down the passage to the end. Maybe that is where the bugs kept all their metal eggs or something... Orgar, how much further does the passage go? Are there more caverns beyond this?".
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 8th, 2001 8:12:15 PM
Bertram stays close to Dakar, his axe readied, figuring on the worst and hoping for the best.
Milo d20+14=32 Thursday August 9th, 2001 3:49:42 AM
With an arrow nocked and drawn, Milo follows Figment and K'nara over to the open passage, peering in as Lucia lights the way. (OOC: Move Silently check at DC32)
Dakar 2d8(6+5)+5=16 Thursday August 9th, 2001 11:49:44 AM
Dakar chants over himself, invoking the healing touch of Domi as he does so. His wounds close up more, delivering him back to more full strength.
What's behind mystery passage number 1 (DM Chris) Thursday August 9th, 2001 1:06:49 PM
Using the light of Lucia, K'nara, Figment and Milo see that the narrow passage extends about thirty feet northward before turning sharply out of sight to the west. The walls in the passage appear to be hewn, as opposed to melted, and the air beyond the opening is warm and smells stale. Orgar approaches at the sound of his name, "Uh... we didn't carve this passage, this room here should be the end of the line." The dwarf is visibly nervous.
Figment Thursday August 9th, 2001 3:08:02 PM
"So it seems we have yet another mystery to solve. At least it smells stale. That means it most likely has an end. Who would have been down here to hew such a passage?". The mage waits for the rest of the group to assemble before they proceed. As they move on he adds "Remember, I still have one lightning bolt left if we run into more bugs.".
Brother Bertram Thursday August 9th, 2001 3:40:30 PM
Bertram moves alongside Dakar as they approach the 'new' tunnel.
Flueterflam Thursday August 9th, 2001 4:12:23 PM
The bard follows closely behind Bertram and Dakar. He quietly thinks to himself, 'After we're through with all this, if we get through it that is, I think I'll try being a comedian. Afterall, everyone likes a good laugh. Yeah, that's what I'll do....' A slight smile creases Fluet's face as he walks.
Ingrge Thursday August 9th, 2001 6:35:00 PM
As Dakar makes his way to his feet, Ingrge moves off with the others to explore the new passage. As he steps in beside K'narra, he tells her, "I still think we ought to burn that last batch of slimy stuff. I would hate to have left a danger behind us."
K'Nara Friday August 10th, 2001 8:05:11 AM
The tall human woman turned the possibilities over in her mind, then turned to Orgar.
"As long as this particular passage is NOT one made by your people, Orgar," she said, "I doubt we'll need you to guide us for this leg of the journey...so, we'll take care of Dakar here and then check out this passage, while you get some of your clan to collect those metal egg-thingies...and burn out the rest of that slimy stuff." K'Nara nodded, then turned to the Talon's battlerager.
"What say you, Dakar..?" she asked, pointing to her three potion bottles, "I have three curative brews here...two of them cure light wounds--the third one cures even better...or so I've been told. Have you need of any of these..?" After waiting to see if Dakar decided to drink any of her potions, K'Nara packed away whatever was left and then led the way into the new passage.
Olana Friday August 10th, 2001 6:38:23 PM
The elf stepped carefully as they began to explore this new passage, all senses alerted to any possible threat, all the while wondering what they would find.
Milo d20+8=20 d20+14=30 Saturday August 11th, 2001 1:28:25 AM
Putting his short bow away and drawing his sword, Milo edges up next to Olana, taking the lead, and looking for traps as he descends down into the passage. (OOC: Made search/traps and move silently checks at DCs 20 and 30 respectively)
Like Pea Soup... (DM Chris) Saturday August 11th, 2001 1:37:37 AM
The air here is palpable, making it feel as though you're walking through veiled gossamer on a dry, hot day. Cobwebs seem to be everywhere in here, drifting down to catch in hair, eyes, and some igniting by Lucia's flame, causing brief flares of light in the air. With K'nara in the lead and the rest of the Talons close on her heels, it is hard to get over the feeling as though someone is watching you. Indeed, everyone can hear the faint sound of movement, but it is difficult to tell whether it is the dwarves working to load the metal balls into a cart in the cave behind you, or something else altogether. (OOC: Everyone may feel free to make both spot and listen checks at this point. Have a nice weekend.)
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.
Milo Monday September 10th, 2001 3:59:22 AM
Not really needing anything before leaving, Milo is content to split his time between meditation and prayer, and wandering aimlessly about the cavern in sheer boredom.
Questions, Concerns, Comments... (DM Chris) Monday September 10th, 2001 4:22:24 AM
Turning to Figment, Orgar states plainly, "I have not seen Dakar, but it is my understanding that he has requested sanctuary here in the mines, and plans to have an extended stay while he works through some of his personal issues in perhaps not-so-silent commune with Domi. As for the plague... while it didn't touch us down here, we did hear something of it... it was too widespread to miss the news altogether. I hear that it is rapidly being wiped out... I can only assume it is because of the antidote you speak of. We are completing preparations for departure as we speak now, and should be ready to go first thing in the morning. You can expect to see me again this evening, as I understand it, Helga would like to see you then, as well. If there are no questions or concerns, I'll see you tonight."
K'Nara Monday September 10th, 2001 6:57:43 AM
Suddenly K'Nara felt the beginnings of a pounding headache coming on when Olana's and Ingre's questions are said out loud. The headache is mercifully short-lived, however, when Orgar mentions Dakar's seeking sanctuary within the heart of this mining clan.
"Oh, thank the gods!" the leader of the Talons muttered. "That's ALL we would have needed--having to try to deal with Dakar's one-dwarf-war against those muscleheads up top..!"
Figment Monday September 10th, 2001 12:56:26 PM
The mage smiles at the thought of leaving the mines. "Orgar, I will miss you and your clan, but my back will NOT miss the mine!". He stretches trying to straighten all the kinks in his back from laying on the stone and hunching over.
Olana Monday September 10th, 2001 4:13:29 PM
Olana laughed with relief on knowing the wild young dwarf hadn't gone out to meet the guards. With a chuckle, she added to K'Nara's comment - "Well, he would have kept them busy for a while."
Flueterflam Monday September 10th, 2001 9:19:15 PM
Whistling suddenly comes from the bard's direction. He appears very happy. But suddenly he snaps his fingers and slaps his leg very hard, yelling out loud about the pain and apparently about lyrics that don't fit well. Fluet quiets down and stays deep in thought for awhile longer.
Brother Bertram Monday September 10th, 2001 10:38:35 PM
Bertram smiles. relieved that Dakar had decided to take time to come to terms with his rage. With a prayer of thanks to Domi he settles down for a little more rest before they hit the road.
Milo Tuesday September 11th, 2001 12:44:31 AM
At Orgar's pronouncement regarding Dakar, Milo looks relieved, but his face quirks up as usual and he looks toward Olana, "I wonder what they call it underground...? When we were traveling, I guess Dakar had some serious road rage... is this cave rage... how about mine rage... actually I'm glad its his rage and not mine.." Milo collapses in a fit of giggles.
Giving Thanks... (DM Chris) Tuesday September 11th, 2001 1:03:29 AM
As the day comes to a close, the evening food cart is brought in, with trays of steaming roast venison and loaves of warm spiced bread. Orgar grins, "We had to do some poaching for this, but considering our current plans, we're not looking to be in anyone's good grace these days." Accompanying Orgar is Helga who stands before the group, "In the morning you'll be leaving us, I regret to say. Your presence will be missed terribly. We will not however, let you go without some modicum of thanks." With that, Helga holds out her hands, and in them rests a polished silvery short sword, the hilt adorned with a textured onyx grip. "This is the blade that we forged out of the metals smelt in the bellies of those monstrous beetles. We are sure the blade is magical, though its exact properties are a mystery to our most adept smithies. Wield it well." With that, Helga sheaths the blade in an onyx black scabbard trimmed in copper, and presents the sword hilt first to K'nara.
K'Nara Tuesday September 11th, 2001 6:30:15 AM
The tall human woman smiled at the dwarf leader, then knelt down on one knee in front of her.
"On behalf of the Emerald Talons, Clanmistress Helga, I accept your token with humble gratitude." K'Nara said sincerely, taking hold of the hilt and then holding the blade aloft. "I'm sure it's going to be interesting to find out just what this product of your clan's craftsmanship can do!"
Figment Tuesday September 11th, 2001 12:48:38 PM
The mage bows to the Clan Leader with respect, but says nothing - leaving the talking to the warrior woman.
He eyes the blade with adminration. "I should be able to tell you what it is but I will need to memorize a spell for it. Would you like me to do this or would you prefer we do that after we escape - and do it at a later time?".
Ingrge Wednesday September 12th, 2001 7:45:21 AM
Listening to Helga's speech and giving her a nod of thanks, Ingrge moves forward a bit to get a better look at the sword. Turning to K'narra, he adds his comments to Figment's. I too can perhaps find something out about this blade so beteween the two of us.....
Olana Wednesday September 12th, 2001 4:29:45 PM
Whispering to Milo, Olana says - "Well whatever it is, he's not going to be the only one with 'cave rage' if I don't get out of here soon. I'm an elf, not a mole - and look at Fluet. Does he look sane to you?"
She then gives a sigh, followed by a grin. "I just want my trees back."
Later, as the sword is presented, Olana looks on with oohs and aahs, figuring that the mages in the party will be able to discover its properties.
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 12th, 2001 8:12:29 PM
Bertram eyes the craftmanship of the sword appeciatively before hefting his axe lovingly.
Milo Thursday September 13th, 2001 1:00:12 AM
Smiling at Olana, Milo is glad that someone appreciates his unusual brand of humor.
Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow... (DM Chris) Thursday September 13th, 2001 1:02:58 AM
The morning comes all too soon, and Orgar is there, with the food cart, waking up the Talons, "Good morning folks, everything is set. So as soon as you're ready to leave, we'll get underway. Don't take too long... I don't want some of our miners to get stage fright." With that he winks at the group.
K'Nara Thursday September 13th, 2001 7:27:48 AM
After her usual training stint and maintainance of herself and her equipment, K'Nara was ready for the next step of getting the Talons out of the dwarven mines and back to the Culverwood safely.
"I know I'm all set, Orgar," she told the helpful earthkin, then turned to her group, "How about YOU? You all ready to go?"
Flueterflam Thursday September 13th, 2001 9:26:58 AM
At hearing his name mentioned, the bard turns his head to hear what's being said about him. When he realizes what it is, Fluet starts laughing as insanely as possible. After a few moments, he stops and winks at Olana.
"I need to see the sun soon, if that answers the question. The sooner the better."
Figment Thursday September 13th, 2001 12:22:31 PM
The mage stands - ready to go. "Whenever we're ready. So how are we going to do this, Orgar. What do we need to do? Perhaps some instruction now before things get interesting would be a good thing.".
Ingrge Thursday September 13th, 2001 6:47:40 PM
Brightening at the thought of soon seeing trees again, Ingrge steps forward with a spring in his step, not seen in several days.
Olana Thursday September 13th, 2001 7:23:10 PM
Olana nods determindly at K'Nara. "Are we going to fight our way out? Or what?"
Brother Bertram Thursday September 13th, 2001 9:07:53 PM
After a hearty meal, Bertram hops up, ready to take on the world.
Milo Friday September 14th, 2001 2:47:37 AM
Milo eats lightly and quickly, shouldering his pack, and making ready in thoughtful silence. It is but a few moments, and he is ready to leave as well.
Passage Into Darkness... (DM Chris) Friday September 14th, 2001 3:01:18 AM
Grinning from ear to ear, he addresses Olana, "Oh no... your work is done... no fighting... we're headed out the back door... it'll take the larger part of the day to get there from here, but it completely bypasses the buffoons waiting at our 'front door'. All you have to do is get in line and follow me... for the first hour, you'll want to keep quiet, but after that, talk all ya like." Orgar holds up a pair of lanterns, filled and lit, passing one to Milo and the other to Olana. "Hold on to these so those of you who don't see so well in the dark don't get hurt." Turning to Bertram, "Will you take the rear cousin so you can use yer good dwarf vision to watch our backs? I don't expect any trouble, but its better to be safe than sorry." With that, Orgar steps through the black curtain, which has been tied to one side, and begins to lead the group through the tunnels. At first, you notice a small contingent of miners applying coal and dirt to their faces with all the care of a Plateau City Thespian. Then, an explosion rocks the upper passageways, and they go running towards the 'front door' feigning cries of woe, screaming things like, "By Domi's blade, they collapsed the cavern on themselves.... Oh what shall we do... the heroes have fallen... defeated the bugs they did.... but at what a price." The dwarves' cries fade as the Talons descend further than they ever have before.
K'Nara Friday September 14th, 2001 7:05:09 AM
"I'm sure our earthkin brethren have the details covered." K'Nara told both Figment and Olana...and was grinning when she saw and heard the theatrics the clan was willing to go through in order to secure the Talons' escape.
One more reason to see Parnoth off his ill-gotten throne... the human bladesinger thought resolutely to herself, ...such doughty spirits should never be forced to labor, but do so willingly. She then turned her attention towards following Orgar out of the mine.
Flueterflam Friday September 14th, 2001 10:51:53 AM
Quietly laughing about the dwarven 'antics' to help them out of the caves, Flueterflam looks intrigued. Those nearest the bard hear him quietly talking to himself, "That's IT! I'll become an actor. Yes, that's what I'll do. Hmm..where do I start?"
Figment Friday September 14th, 2001 11:15:48 AM
The mage uncovers his 2 torches which shine without heat. He hands one to anyone who wants to carry it and keeps the other himself.
Ingrge Friday September 14th, 2001 9:11:38 PM
Grinning from ear to ear at Orgar and the dwarves use of his idea Ingrge steps to the front, while putting on his shielding scarf, to walk along with K'narra. Indicating to her the scarf on his head, he asks, "So now that we'redead do you have any suggestions?"
Brother Bertram Friday September 14th, 2001 10:17:57 PM
Bertram nods his agreement and moves to the back of the line, keeping an eye out for problems. He smiles to himself hearing the dwarves carry on in thier name.
K'Nara Monday September 17th, 2001 6:43:31 AM
Nodding to Ingrge, K'Nara said:
"We should grab our stuff and hightail it back to the village we visited before going into the city...there's that group of orphans I promised to check up on before all this happened, and--if nothing else--I want to be sure that they are, indeed, all right."
Milo Monday September 17th, 2001 11:18:25 AM
Milo walks silently beside Orgar, ever wary for a trap or ambush as the group moves through the dark tunnels.
Pine fresh.... (DM Chris) Monday September 17th, 2001 11:24:06 AM
The tunnels seem to wind on forever as minutes seem like hours, and hours like days in the stifling underground passages. Eventually, Orgar pulls up short, "Okay, here it is folks, the way out. Now if everything went as planned, your horses should be on the other side of this door." Orgar pats what appears to be a blank wall. "Don't close the door too fast, as some of my kin is out there waiting to get in, and once you shut the door, you won't be able to open it from the outside." With that, Orgar pushes on an outcropping of stone, and then a 2nd, and a 3rd, in some strange sequence. With a grating sound and the rising of dust, the wall of the passage slides open, and light streams in, blinding the group. A fresh breeze accompanies the light however, and the scent of pine as well.
Figment Monday September 17th, 2001 12:34:33 PM
The mage puts up his 2 torches as he breathes deeply the fresh air. He follows the others out and carefully watches for enemies.
Brother Bertram Monday September 17th, 2001 5:24:28 PM
Bertram brings up the rear, holding back carefully just in case the group finds soldiers instead of friends. He keeps a hand on the clever door ready to slam it if need be.
Flueterflam Monday September 17th, 2001 6:38:00 PM
The bard squints until his eyes adjust to the 'real world'. He takes in several deep breaths, finding the smell better than he ever thought it could smell. Fluet continues to walk outside, and figure out where to go and what to do from here.
Olana Monday September 17th, 2001 7:00:03 PM
Intrigued by Orgar's words, the elf takes the torch and walks with the others along the tunnels. On hearing what is being done to cover their escape, she allows herself a little smile. She'd never thought of that!
As Orgar stood at the stone, she found herself bouncing up and down on her toes, energized by anticipation. As the door opened, her heart leapt. They were out! Out! Wheeeeeeee!!!
Ingrge Monday September 17th, 2001 7:40:20 PM
Breathing in deeply of the fresh outside air, Ingrge allows a quiet moan escape his lips as the tension of being underground and in the unnatural light for so long rushes out of his body. With a much lighter step the mage all but skips thru the door and into the sunlight.
K'Nara Tuesday September 18th, 2001 6:54:36 AM
So overcome by the smell of fresh air was K'Nara that she plumb forgot to make sure that all the fighter-types advanced first, instead exiting the cave hurriedly. Belatedly the human bladesinger recalled that at least one of them should stay by the door to make sure it stayed open for the dwarves who were without the mine, so K'Nara paused to keep the door open for them. She squinted about, looking for the horses and wagons. Where were they..?
Milo Tuesday September 18th, 2001 2:55:13 PM
Shrugging his shoulders and smiling at Orgar, Milo stands back, allowing the larger folk to complete their stampede through the door. "A halfling has to be careful around big folk... sheesh... whats a body gonna do?" Than, once the rush is over, he strides out of the tunnel, taking in deep breaths of the clean, fresh air.
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