The Fall (DM Dave) Monday October 15th, 2001 7:24:50 AM
In your minds, you hear a voice. It bring tears to your eyes, even though you do not know its source.
"As long as his children live, a father does not truly die...HAVE COURAGE..!"
There is a single, great tremor felt throughout the entire length and breadth of Plateau City.
Leaping up, the Green Dragons and the Three head to the ramparts, when a wave of blue energy washes over everyone, suddenly healing all wounds. Abruptly, you are left in darkness to grope your way along the passages, as all lights (torches, spells) have been extinguished, except for Jus’ crown, which twinkles faintly like stars. Stumbling to the roof, multiple emotions seek to overwhelm you.
Pain! Anguish! Cowardice! Anger!
Somewhere behind you is a great explosion. The Yrth shakes. Looking back you can see light in that direction: strange!
As you focus on the light, you see what perhaps is the single most impressive sight you’ve ever seen: the Temple of Domi falling….slowly as if time itself had retarded. For a few minutes you stand there staring…in shock.
It takes a minute to realize the view of the city is lit in red – the twin moons of Kerracles and Warrd wax bloody overhead!
From the direction of the Arena, a roar of panic rises in the air as waves of people race away from it in panic.
Debris and dust are raining down as the citizens are bumping into one another and fighting to get down the road a bit faster.
“Domi is dead!”
“We’re doomed!”
“The Gods have forsaken us!”
It is then that you notice Qualde writhing in convulsions on the paving stones (she needs to make Will roll vs DC 14).
Tericus Monday October 15th, 2001 8:58:20 AM
Being newly revived, Tericus runs with the others. Once he realizes what's happening, he quickly prays to Teresalia to make sure she's all right.
Gareth Monday October 15th, 2001 9:05:42 AM
(Back about 1/2 day) The warrior looks at the dwarf with distaste, but thinks better of quibbling with his jab. He instead decides to address Mohram's questeion. "Well, to begin with we get there and see a fight between a silver dragon and a group of 12' devil things. They killed the dragon. About that time a 15' guy comes around the corner and takes out the 12' things - we decided to move on since our choice was to fight 12' things that just took out a dragon - or a 15' thing that took them out... We searched all day for something - anything that would lead us to where the witches were but we failed. In the evening a ranger type guy dressed in green shows up - his name is Tiarnan Ciaran Darragh. He helped us find the witches. We fought them and this god of theirs - his name was Chaugnar Faugn. We fought him and the witches and killed them all. After returning to Ciaran we were told the only way back here was through a gate only the Woodland Queen could show us - who was being held captive by an undead beholder. After that battle we went to her portal, she gave Jus that crown thing, and we came here. I'm sure Cantos can make it sound more dramatic - but that's pretty much it.
Gareth Monday October 15th, 2001 9:08:08 AM
As the realization of what has occurred washes over him, the warrior's blood runs cold. He rushes to Qualde as she reels - not knowing if he'll be any help at all.
Gareth d100=10 Monday October 15th, 2001 11:39:07 AM
(Forgot to roll - not that it mattered...)
Qualde d20+12=16 Monday October 15th, 2001 3:48:58 PM
The dark elf's heels drum on the paving, her jaw clenched, her eyes rolled back in her head. Her slim body bows back on itself, every muscle tensing. Just as it appears she must surely snap her spine, Qualde collapses in a limp heap. Her pale green eyes focus on Gareth and Tericus above her, then fill with tears that spill over to track down her dark skin.
"Domi," she groans. "Lost to us." The priestess curls into herself an covers her face with her hands. When her finger tips touch the twin symbols at her brow, she pulls the circlet free of her hair and stares at it. Qualde looks lost. (Will=16)
Jus Monday October 15th, 2001 7:21:23 PM
"Domi? Dead? That's impossible," Jus exclaimes. Yet there is an empty, cold hole in his heart where something unnoticed used to warm his soul. His disbelief turns to anger and outrage, that someone would blaspheme to such an extreme with this joke. Still... the Temple of Domi... The Moons... The Earthquake... Qualde... it's overwhelming. His anger melts away to be replaced once again by a feeling of sorrow and isolation. "Someone's got to do something," Jus quietly whispers. Strange, Jus thinks, I'm afraid... afraid of what is happening... and what happens now... Domi, the God of Courage. Dead. What's that going to do to us? What's that going to do to the Wold?
Jus runs down to Qualde, not even noticing Tericus is back with them. With tears freely flowing, Jus tries to stay calm, yet there is a plea in his voice. "What are you talking about? What happened? Domi can't just die! Where is he?"
Cantos Monday October 15th, 2001 8:21:51 PM
Cantos trembles with fear. "Domi gone?? I don't understand... What could this mean?" The Bard reaches down to comfort Qualde. "I am so sorry. What can I do to..." Cantos stops, realizing there is nothing he can do for her.
Nonam Monday October 15th, 2001 11:03:19 PM
Nonam doesn't seem overly concerened about Domi, but the wizard begins to frown as if he's working on a puzzle.
After a few moments he looks up, "As bad as this seems, I have the sinking feeling that things are going to get much, much worse. Logically speaking, if I were going to begin a war on the gods, Domi would be my first target too. The Dark One has just assassinated the general. The other gods will suffer from confusion without Domi's leadership in battle. This will give Marteaus time to plan and strike again. But who next?"
Nonam pauses and looks up to the sky, "I'm afraid the storm has only just begun."
Confusion and Grief (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 4:53:48 AM
Each of the Green Dragons look upon the spectacle of the crowds belong with haggard faces.
Beritram keeps muttering to himself, "This is not good..." while Themov has disappeared. Morham clutches the railing to steady himself, while Belvinas and Sandorak sag against each other.
Various alarms sound across the city throughout the darkness, and slight tremors can still be felt, rocking the city.
Tericus Tuesday October 16th, 2001 9:37:17 AM
Not receiving an answer, Tericus falls to his knees and says, "Please, mistress, please answer me! If you're not with me, I don't know if I can go on!"
Nonam d20-3=11 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 10:10:33 AM
Looking from all the confusion to Qualde, Nonam decides that he was right all along.... there aren't any gods. There are certainly beings much more powerful than he is, but not a group of omnipotent beings that sit in the clouds and direct the actions of men. He's about to point this out when Tericus starts to cry out to Teresalia. He barely manages enough wisdom to keep his mouth closed.
Gareth Tuesday October 16th, 2001 10:31:52 AM
The warrior frowns at Nonam's pronouncement. He looks to the Greens and says "What do you have to say about this? Perhaps we should go see Sturtavent before we act? I expect the Wold would be a much more terrible place to live if the Cult gods succeed in their attempt to take the Wold. If we are to be Dragons, if we are to protect the realm, I'd say now would be a good time to begin." If the Greens have nothing to say, he stands and says, "Let's go - right now!"
Sandorak (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:14:43 PM
Passing a scar-crossed hand across his brow, the drawf seems to snap out of his reverie at Gareth's words. With a dark look, he growls, "You impertinent twit!" He raises his axe as he faces the leader of the Three.
Belvinas (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:18:03 PM
The normally jovial priest turns at the words exchanged, and glares at Gareth, "You're wits escape you. You are suffered as uninvited guests, and you speak without knowing what has occurred during your two month absence in Myth Drannor." A field of blue energy crackles, sheathing Belvinas in power.
Beritram (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:20:13 PM
Oblivious to the growing confrontation, the old man stares off blindly over the city, his thoughts travelling unknown paths.
Morham (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:31:04 PM
Tearing his gaze from the panic flowing past in the streets below, Morham hisses, "You can think of dragon status, at a time like this? Go, go run to our precious Sturtavent! You will only bring doom that much more quickly upon yourselves!"
Swinging back around to face the city, Morham speaks more to himself, "This changes everything, and your mage can only state a fourth of it. Let the gods deal with their own. We will be undone by their castings here on the Wold! Their agents are already moving among us. Look!"
He points down to a place, a quarter of a mile distant, where an organized crowd, marching from the arena, appears to be striking down the fleeing citizens before it.
Nobody Home (DM Dave) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:39:11 PM
Tericus continues to receive a response of silence.
Gareth Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:51:51 PM
As it looks like he's going to be attacked the warrior only ventures a quick glance at the city before glaring at the dwarf. He says dangerously "I don't pretend to know what has gone on. All I know is that we've committed ourselves to fight for the realm - status notwithstanding. And as I understand it so did you! I didn't say we were going to go to Sturtavent to get a name! We are going to find out how we can help - as I thought ALL dragons did! We may not be dragons yet, but we can sure act like them - or at least how I think they should act. You may not like us or our ways, but I venture to guess you like them (pointing to the approaching crowd) less! So quit fighting your allies and tell us what we need to do - or get out of the way! Either way, save your venom for your REAL enemies! Your time is wasted on me.". Unless they prevent them from leaving - or give him a compelling reason to stay, the warrior goes with his original plan - but prepares himself for a fight if the dwarf or the priest move aginst them. (Note: I'm assuming we can get to the mayor's place before "the crowd" does. If not, we'll stay put unless the dwarf wants a fight.)
Qualde Tuesday October 16th, 2001 6:20:45 PM
As tempers flare, Qualde's eyes redden until their glow rivals the moons'. She flows to her feet and glares at the hostile Green Dragons. "Enough!" she shouts in undercommon. "Domi bid us have courage, so leave off this craven squabbling. Those of us who are still able will help in the Wold as we can. There are many way to oppose a foe.
"And you." She turns to Tericus, tears still streaming down her face. "Leave your goddess to her grief. If she were gone, you would know. YOU WOULD KNOW!"
The grieving priestess spins and stalks over to the railing, her circlet clutched tightly in one fist. She watches the growing panic below. In a hoarse voice, she chokes out, "Perhaps the best good we can do, now, is to help keep order in the streets."
Cantos Tuesday October 16th, 2001 8:44:14 PM
"Well said, my drow friend." Cantos counts his arrows and moves his sword around. "Now is the time for action -- but which action should we follow?"
Jus Wednesday October 17th, 2001 2:31:43 AM
Qualde's sorrow cuts Jus to the quick. It must be true. What cannot be, must be true. The sorrow is strong. Typical of Gareth and Nonam, one always ready to fight, the other wanting to analyze. We all have our strengths, and these are theirs.
Jus wants to say something to Tericus, but perhaps Tericus must find his own way back. Instead, Jus walks over to Qualde, placing his hand on her shoulder in sympathy and support. The times are indeed dire, but his actions prove that good will come out of it. For even though Jus has always shown disdain for Drow, he doesn't even notice Qualde's dark skin. Indeed, Jus wouldn't care even if he did.
Beritram (DM Dave) Wednesday October 17th, 2001 5:07:37 AM
Finally shaken from his reverie, Beritram turns and gives a piercing look at Morham, "It is time."
Morham (DM Dave) Wednesday October 17th, 2001 5:14:17 AM
Whatever is going through the leader's head is washed away at Beritram's words, "Yes, of course."
Quickly calling the other Green Dragons, he touches a pendant, causing an 8' tall vertical disk of yellowish light to spring forth nearby.
Barely acknowledging (except for a glare from the dwarf) the Three's existence, the Green Dragons proceed through the obvious portal, which winks out in their wake, leaving Gareth and company behind upon the darkened deck of the castle.
Nonam Wednesday October 17th, 2001 7:46:37 AM
"Well, I suppose now is the time for courage. That's what the voice on the wind said." Nonam looks down to the streets, "Those people have obviously lost theirs. Maybe if we simply walked the streets until we reach the high lord mayor's palace we can bring some courage back to them. I don't know what else to do. This is all a bit overwhelming."
Gareth Wednesday October 17th, 2001 9:53:58 AM
The warrior watches the Greens depart. As they leave he says "For what it's worth, good luck.".
He nods to Nonam and says "That sounds good. But I wonder if we ought to teleport there as time is of the essence?". The warrior either leaves the palace by way of the front door or portal - whichever is agreed upon.
Tericus Wednesday October 17th, 2001 9:55:05 AM
"A few hours ago I was in her arms. She held me to her bosem and told me my work wasnt done yet. She told me my friends need me." Tericus says aloud, though he doesnt seem to be addressing anyone paticular "Now she cant answer me. What am I to do!?!" he wails as tears begin to stream down his face "WHAT AM I TO DOOOO!!!!"
Gareth, Cont. d20+4=14 d20+4=15 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 9:57:32 AM
Turning to Tericus he picks him up to his feet, looks him in the eye, and says "We do what Domi said do: Have Courage. She was right, you know, we need you - now more than ever". (Cha check).
Jus Wednesday October 17th, 2001 2:27:30 PM
Jus goes to Tericus and, like he did with Qualde, puts his hand on Tericus' shoulder and gives a light squeeze.
"Okay, friends," Jus says. "It's time we start moving. Let's go check out that crowd as Gareth said; it seems somewhat futile right now, but maybe we'll find out what's going on -- and save some lives in the process."
Qualde Wednesday October 17th, 2001 6:49:10 PM
The red of anger fades from Qualde's eyes, and she squeezes Jus' hand in silent thanks. She misses her brother's steady support, she misses the sun that she'd barely begun to know, and she misses that part of her heart that once was filled by Domi's steady presence. She glances at the symbol in her hand, rubbing her thumb over the crossed swords. Have courage. Her gaze slides from Caeroldra's bow to the turmoil in the street below.
Turning to face her companions, the priestess replaces the circlet on her forehead. "Let us go on foot," she husks. "These people need to see that heroes still walk the land with courage." Determination radiates from every line of her body as she reaches Tericus' side. "Let us show them Caeroldra's love, sing Teresalia's song, strengthen their faith in the gods of Wold who remain. We will show them Dragons."
Qualde hurries with the others through the castle to the streets below.
Cantos Wednesday October 17th, 2001 8:56:13 PM
Cantos looks out on the approaching crowd with tears in his eyes, streaming down his face. He turn with grace and faces his comrades," We have done what can be done here, we must continue the path set out for us quickly."
Turmoil (DM Dave) Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:08:08 AM
The Three head out into the streets, and immediately find themselves forced to walk nearest the buildings to avoid being pushed back by the surge.
Many homes and establishments appear to have been broken into. Looting is rampant. Nearby temples are overflowing with the desperate. The spirit of hopelessness reigns supreme.
In the direction of the arena, the levels of fear seem ratchet higher. After what seems an eternity of passing crowds, our heroes finally encounter something tangible to oppose:
An enormous crowd, hundreds strong, comes brandishing various impromptu weapons, striking down those before them while shouting out various phrases - "The Cult Gods Rule!" "Down with the Weak!" "Domi is Dead!"
Sickeningly, many of these marchers have made informal holy symbols out of their victims, with bloody eyeballs dangling from sinew worn as necklaces or bracelets.
Tericus Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:53:51 AM
Though still in shock, Tericus musters up his strength and moves on with his friends. The panic of so many people sickens his stomach and grips at his heart until he hears the chants and sees the things that the crowd from the arena have done. Anger and hatred replace his feeling of dread as he reaches into himself and conjures one of his most powerful spells(assuming he still can). In a loud voice the normally calm cleric yells out "DIE!" and nine of the closest worshipers of the foul gods fall to the ground and stop moving (cast greater command, affects 9 people for 9 rounds, can change the command).
Nonam Thursday October 18th, 2001 10:47:03 AM
Nonam walks down the streets with his staff of fire in hand. On encountering the raging crowd, he hopes that he won't need it. After Tericus grabs their attention with his spell, Nonam launches into a speech, "Have all of your hearts turned black with the sky? Just because the heavens shake, is that a reason to kill your friends? your neighbors? your mothers and children? NOW is the time for courage. For helping your friends and loved ones. Even for helping those that you've never met because they are in need. Just because the gods war amongst themselves is no excuse. The people of Plateau City are the most noble throughout New Elenna. Focus your energy on helping those that are weaker than you. We can destroy ourselves or we can be a beacon through the darkness. That choice belongs to you."
Gareth d20+18=28 d20+13=31 d20+8=11 d8+7=10 d8+7=9 d8+7=9 Thursday October 18th, 2001 12:01:57 PM
The warrior pulls out his longbow and nocks an arrow. "We can't prevail against such a large crowd. Our only hope is to get them to stop moving - either by persuasion or force!" He fires 3 arrows, picking out those offenders who are about to kill or hurt the citizens fleeing them in an effort to stop the carnage. He looks to help women and children before men.
Cantos Thursday October 18th, 2001 5:53:34 PM
"Well hell... you guys don't have the sense the gods gave a love struck cow." Cantos says flatly. "Domi said have courage not stupidity, and 4 on 100 or 200 is just that stupid." Cantos draws his bow and nocks an arrow, realizing that it is now too late to do anything else and waits to see what happens.
Jus Friday October 19th, 2001 1:09:20 AM
Laughing out loud with a sound more of mania than humor, Jus has to agree with Cantos, "True enough, I didn't expect us to take on the entire mob -- but at least they will focus on us instead of other innocents."
Jus casts Grease [10x10; fall or Reflex for 1/2 speed] towards the front of the mob and away from the party, hoping to disable some and make it difficult for others behind to advance.
Qualde Friday October 19th, 2001 4:30:50 AM
The actions of the mob set Qualde's anger alight again. Worried that she might lose herself to the emotion, she directs her efforts toward helping the panicked crowd. The priestess pushes her way to the middle of the street and shouts in her broken Common, "Have courage! Caeroldra bless, in Domi's name!" (Cast Bless on the crowd.)
Ugly Crowd Night (DM Dave) Friday October 19th, 2001 6:04:23 AM
Nonam's soliloquey is greeted with jeers such as "Survivial of the Fittest" and "Death to the Weak".
However, the actions of the Three manage to halt the advance of the mob, giving respite to the weary and harried.
It is as if some inhuman force were driving these crazed Plateans onword, and they begin working to navigate the grease laid out in their pathway: Some skirting the edges, but most swarming over it, due to the shear weight of the crowd behind.
Most promptly land on their backsides.
[The combined actions of everyone last round were effective in cutting down the momentum.]
Tericus Friday October 19th, 2001 6:33:08 AM
Feeling a bit better since he was able to call on his mistress' power, Tericus decides to keep his command spell the same, then utters another incantation. Moments later a globe of absolute darkness (60ft radius) appears right in the middle of the angry mob (cast deeper darkness spell). "Let those who turn their backs on the true gods dwell in darkness!" Tericus yells at the top of his lungs.
Gareth Friday October 19th, 2001 10:06:38 AM
"Survival of the fittest you say? So be it!". Not knowing anything about magic and supernatural forces driving people, the warrior looses 3 more arrows, choosing carefully his targets. He focuses on the ones in front, making it through or around the grease. Thinking in a one-track fashion (not worried about those in the crowd - viewing them as the enemy...), he looks at the casters. "What are you waiting for? Blast'em with something that hurts!"
Gareth d20=20 d20=8 d20=13 d20=12 d20=20 d20=5 d20=2 d8+7=13 d8+7=8 d8+7=13 d8+7=15 d8+7=13 d8+7=9 d8+7=14 Friday October 19th, 2001 10:08:31 AM
(Forgot to hits, 2 criticals x3 w/ longbow)
Jus Friday October 19th, 2001 2:33:20 PM
"These are not our enemies, Gareth," Jus exclaims. "Try to dispurse them, yes. Try to kill them, no."
Jus casts Glitterdust towards the back of the mob, hoping his placement prevents the recipients from being trampled and that it starts the dispersing the mob from behind.
"As much as I'm afraid to say it, we need to head onwards to the source. Let's break away and go. We've slowed this group down for a while, and can't do much more unless we're willing to start butchering them."
Nonam Saturday October 20th, 2001 8:51:30 AM
Nonam ignores Jus and cries out, "If I played by your rules all of you would be dead by now. Now, GO BACK HOME." At the last word, the mage uses his staff to bring up a Wall of Fire all the way across the street. He puts it close enough to the crowd to burn the leaders just a little bit.
[Not that I would cast circle of death or anything, but did Nonam remember his lost spells when the enervation expired?]
Cantos Monday October 22nd, 2001 12:03:55 AM
"Best idea I have heard yet, Lets roll" Cantos says. "Nice wall by the way Nonam, at least you didnt manage to kill anyone."
Qualde d20+8=10 d8+5=8 Monday October 22nd, 2001 3:42:48 AM
Qualde rejoins the others, pausing along the way to cast Cure Light Wounds on a battered youth (8hp). She has to work to remind herself that each life saved is a victory of sorts. (She lands on her ass if she has to cross the Greased area; Reflex=10.)
"Have slowed and changed direction," she says, eyeing Nonam's wall. "I want speaker of lies." A flash of distaste briefly replaces her grieving expression, and she gestures up the street in the mob's direction of origin. "We go?"
Stalemate (DM Dave) Monday October 22nd, 2001 7:59:55 AM
Again, the Three are highly successful in their tactics, with the Wall of Fire being particularly effective in bringing the interlopers to a halt.
Jus notes that it's hard to define the back of the crowd, as more and more people seem to be pouring in from behind every second...there are easily a thousand people at the moment!
Your vision is temporarily obscured by the sheets of flame, preventing you from assessing the mob's actions. From the sounds of shouting, though, you'd guess that some people are spilling around smaller side streets parallel to the one you stand upon.
Tericus Monday October 22nd, 2001 9:25:43 AM
Not being able to see anyone at the moment, Tericus asks Nonam, "Is there a reason why we are down here?"
Nonam d20+5=15 d20+10=26 Monday October 22nd, 2001 11:16:53 AM
Nonam uses his mask to peer through the fire and keep an eye on the crowd. Then he looks back to Tericus, "We're just out to whatever help we can. Saving people from a raging mobs seemed appropriate. Now this particular mob seems to be charmed by some sort of powerful force. We've delayed them, but I can't stop them all without killing them. Perhaps we should figure out where they're going and try to get there first."
(straight intelligence check=15; knowledge of geography check=26)
Gareth Monday October 22nd, 2001 11:21:41 AM
"Good work, Nonam. Looks like there's no way we're going to stop them short of killing them all. I say we should go see Sturtavent immediately. We are doing a good thing here, but we may be fighting a skirmish and missing the war. Can we speak to him without actually going there? Can we do that?" If nobody offers a solution or other course of action, the warrior heads for City Hall.
Cantos d20+3=17 d20+2=4 Monday October 22nd, 2001 8:31:28 PM
Cantos looks around. "Well either we fight thses skirmishes all the way there or we find a quicker way to get to his office." With that Cantos looks around for a quieter, quicker, safer way to go.
(Search 17 listen 4)
Qualde Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 12:36:35 AM
The priestess shrugs and follows Garath, not wanting to stop long enough to let herself think. She focusses on the rhythm of her stride, sounding the beat in her mind, letting the sights and smells of the strange night wash over and through her.
Jus Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 1:28:18 AM
"Sturtavent?!?" Jus exclaims. Jus is about to vocally disagree, but decides that now's not the time to argue -- even though he truly doesn't agree with this move.
With calm determination, Jus says "You got it; let's go."
Gareth Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 4:46:38 PM
"I really want to know what you think, Jus. I recall he told us to report back to him once we completed our mission - which we've done. The current situation is obviously unanticipated. Frankly I'm not sure the best thing to do. There's plenty to do here but is it the best thing we could be doing? I believe tactics and coordination are vital in a large campaign (like when we fought the Dark Lord in Ravenloft) - and we have none right now. I'm open to suggestions."
back in the saddle again - DM JK Wednesday October 24th, 2001 1:48:02 PM
As Gareth leads the group away toward the High Lord Mayor's castle, Nonam guesses that the mob is headed for the Golden Arena. The Arena is the closer destination and is on the same side of the river as you are now on. The closest bridge over the river will bring you close to the river any way.
Nonam Wednesday October 24th, 2001 1:48:53 PM
Nonam follows Gareth but points out, "This mob is moving toward the Golden Arena where the fight took place. Perhaps that would be the better place to go."
Gareth Wednesday October 24th, 2001 3:39:39 PM
The warrior looks at the wild mage a moment. "You know, that is the location Ciaran gave us a vision of. It is where the souls were being sucked out of the people. Perhaps we should see what is going on there first? Perhaps we can save the lives of more people there? Looks like something is still happening there.". He looks around the group for any input. If nobody objects he takes Nonam's suggestion and heads quickly in that direction. He stays clear of the advancing mob in the interest of speed.
Cantos Wednesday October 24th, 2001 6:38:42 PM
Cantos looks towards the arena and sighs" Yes the vision was of an arena, so Gareth you are correct we must go there." Cantos looks around "since we are going to go we should, probably assess our ability to go into a combat, I for 1 have only a few spells left to me> I dont know about Nonam or the clerics and my weapons are now all I have."
Jus Thursday October 25th, 2001 5:07:26 AM
Jus follows the others, moving to walk beside Qualde. "I haven't followed a diety like you, so I don't know what you're truly going through. But let me know if I can help." After a few more steps in quiet, Jus adds, "I saw what you were doing for those people, healing them... I'm glad you're part of our team, Qualde."
Tericus Thursday October 25th, 2001 9:08:02 AM
"We need to go where those heathens are going. We need to get revenge for Domi and any other gods that have fallen." Tericus says "We need to go to the arena."
Rushing to the Arena (DM JK) d20+3=19 d6=5 d20+3=7 d20+3=12 d20+3=9 Thursday October 25th, 2001 9:42:48 AM
At Cantos' statement everyone in the group realizes how tired they are. Dawn should be approaching soon. It's been a good twenty four hours since you've slept. Spells are running low, and nerves are wearing thin. But, you are heroes. There's no time to rest now.
The group makes its way to the Golden Arena. You rush madly through the night from the Hindquarter that housed the Green Dragons toward Gladiator Park and its Golden Arena. As the group enters Dragon Quarter, you all see that an unearthly fog has settled in over Adventurer's Square. Heroes that you are, you take a quick breath and plunge into it.
Icy.
Death.
Madness.
The fog is pure evil, and it's a struggle just to keep your team mates in sight. Nonam's mask provides him with perfect visibility, and he keeps the party together as the rest of you stumble through. Qualde trips over a corpse. The body is that of an old woman. Her eyes have been removed, and her once grandmotherly face is now a horror covered in blood.
Gareth helps Qualde to her feet, and the group exits the fog in Magic Square. The sense of evil fades, but an icy shiver remains in your mind. Nonam points out the way around Mage's Bend. The gate in the wall that surrounds Gladiator Park looms just ahead in the darkness. Gold Dragon Castle stands at your left. The lights are all out. Plateau's mightiest heroes aren't home. Whatever they're doing this night, you wish them luck and rush on toward the gate.
You hear the sounds of the mob behind you. You've only just beaten them here. There is no other easy way to get to the Golden Arena from here. If you can block this gate, the mob will have to backtrack, find a bridge and cross the river, work their way through town, and come into the park from the other side. There's a sense of relief and victory that you've achieved some sort of goal.
But then three shadowy shapes rise up from the ground before the gateway. An unholy voice speaks through the night, "You are not His followers in life. In death, you'll have no choice." The leader attacks Gareth, it's ghostly hands pass right through his armor as if it wasn't even there. The icy hands leech the strenght from the mighty warrior (5 pts strength loss). The second shadow flies at Jus, but the elf nimbly dodges out of the away. The third flies at Qualde as it mocks, "Our lord has slain yours." It laughs in a hideous shriek as it rushes her, but its mocking apparently throws it off.
[I need Char Sheets soon, guys. You're in for a few rough fights. I have Qualde's. If you're pokey like me and haven't updated it yet, at least send me the old one.]
Nonam 5d4(2+2+1+1+1)+5=12 Thursday October 25th, 2001 10:05:07 AM
Nonam starts off with a bit of a lecture, "Whether Shades, Spectres, or Ghosts, the incorporeal undead can only be harmed by spells or enchanted weapons."
Then the wizard fires a batch of magic missiles toward the baddie that is fighting Qualde. Incorporeal or not, all the energy bolts strike the undead spook.
(12 pts)
Gareth (-5 Strength) d20+19=24 d20+14=22 d20+9=29 d20+19=28 2d6(2+5)+8=15 2d6(6+3)+8=17 2d6(5+5)+8=18 2d6(6+5)+8=19 Thursday October 25th, 2001 12:37:10 PM
As the strength is drained from the warrior he grimaces "Not again...". Recovering his compsure he yells "Whatever it takes, block that gate from the mob!". He decides to use his newly found staff to hit the thing that just grabbed him with two hands since he just lost strength. "Might as well see how this thing works...". He lashes out at the "thing" with his newly acquired staff since it will not require him to take an action to ready it. He clubs it soundly - if such a thing can be done to a spectral creature - three times. The last one quite decisively. (Hit AC 21,19,26,[25] for 15+17+18+[19]=69 DMG. Loses 1d6x3 of Con - Assuming it saves. See staff descrption. I'll let you roll... :)).
Qualde d20+3=14 2d6(4+4)+14=22 Thursday October 25th, 2001 5:44:32 PM
Qualde staggers, almost numb, after the others, hardly hearing their discussion, not acknowledging Jus' words of comfort. The appearance of the undead draws both her attention and her anger. The priestess' eyes glow with fury as she replies, "Even memory of Domi greater than upstart godling. And my lady's power live yet. Begone, in name of Caeroldra!" (Turns 22hd of undead of up to 12 hd each.)
Cantos d20+5=6 d20+3=12 Thursday October 25th, 2001 8:29:15 PM
Cantos curses the shades repeatedly in elvish realizing that he is useless in the fight and turns his attention to the gate looking for a way to block it.
(search 6 spot 12)
DM JK Friday October 26th, 2001 8:49:46 AM
The shadow shreiks as Nonam's spell hits it, but it doesn't dissipate. However, Gareth's blows send his into oblivion. The remaining two shadows flee and cry out, "Too powerful for us, Morlas will get you. We will bring him." They pass through the wall and are gone.
Meanwhile Cantos has found that the gateway in the wall consists of a double wooden door. It can be barred from the inside. Closing it will cause some delay, but the screaming mob will eventually be able to break through it.
(Dave, you can't hit an undead with a crit. All of them are immune. Nevertheless, you killed it. Constructs and things like oozes are also immune.)
Nonam Friday October 26th, 2001 8:55:43 AM
Nonam looks to Cantos, "I can lock it magically. That will help it hold a little longer."
Tericus Friday October 26th, 2001 9:06:57 AM
Moving to Gareth, Tericus says, "We need you at full strength. This spell will restore your strength." Then he places his hand on Gareth's forehead and mutters a few words (cast restoration on Gareth, his strength is back to normal).
Gareth Friday October 26th, 2001 11:52:20 AM
The warrior breathes deeply as his strength returns. "Thank you, my friend. I wouldn't have survived until now without you." He then races to the gates and begins to close them. Once everyone is through and the gates are closed, he bars them from the inside - using the existing mechanism for that. "A magic hold would be good since it might help keep whatever is in here out of the city too. Any chance you can cover the opening with stone or something?" He looks around to see what is inside. "Wonder who Morlas is?" The warrior stands ready, making sure he gets first attack when the time comes.
A Friend comes for tea (DM JK) Friday October 26th, 2001 1:18:23 PM
A bright vertical slash appears on the pathway. The line rotates counterclockwise until it forms a sort of shimmering portal. Beyond you can see Ciaran and the rest. Onrad manages a quick little wave. Then Addinein steps through. He stands before you and appears to still be in perfect health. The portal almost immediately snaps shut. It seems one of your number has returned.
Jus Friday October 26th, 2001 2:06:58 PM
Jus brightens when he sees Onrad. Jus waves a greeting to him before the portal closes. "Addinein, good to see you! Where were you? What happened? Why'd you return? We're going to where a mob was heading. Good to see you!"
Qualde (GMW+3) Friday October 26th, 2001 2:17:46 PM
Qualde shakes her head at Gareth. "Morlas is trouble, be sure. I can seal gate with stone, but is permanent solution. Need magic or mason to undo. Shall I?"
The priestess looks up from enchanting her morningstar (Greater Magic Weapon) to see Ciaran's special delivery. She closes the distance to Addinein, and without conscious volition finds herself hugging him tightly. "Brother, I --" As if suddenly becoming aware of their situation, she steps back from him and dons her new mask. "It is good you are here. Angry mobs, undead, Domi --"
She breaks off again and turns to the others, revealing the skull-like features of her mask. "Can enchant one more weapon, and four armours. Have some strength spells. Who will have?"
Gareth Friday October 26th, 2001 3:03:52 PM
The warrior says "I'll take strength, and my short sword is now unenchanted. I will be glad to take it but only if nobody else has need. And yes, Qualde, I'm for sealing it unless anyone has a better idea.".
Addinein Sunday October 28th, 2001 11:26:40 AM
As Qualde greets her brother, a slight smile comes across his face. quietly, to just his sister, "why this, sister mine?"
Smiling at those he sees in the group, Addinein responds to the quieries.
"You had just stepped out from where we were, when Ciaran said that you were still short some sword power. He asked for one of us to come with you, and I volunteered. What is this that my sister speaks of?" (ooc I forgot to ask. Do I have spell ability recovered? (meaning am I at full spell strength?))
Tericus(GMW+3) Monday October 29th, 2001 6:56:05 AM
"Seal it." Tericus says to Qualde. then he blesses his own weapon(cast greater magic weapon)
DM JK Monday October 29th, 2001 7:06:10 AM
(There hasn't been an opportunity to memorize new spells or to rest since before the battle with the beholder. But everyone is at full spell strength. When he healed your wounds, Ciaran refreshed all of the casters' spells. You can't change the spells, but you can get back all the ones you cast.)
Nonam d4+1=4 d4+1=2 Monday October 29th, 2001 7:21:31 AM
"I can enchant one blade also. Cantos?" If there's no objection, the wizard casts Greater Magic Weapon on Cantos' rapier. (+4)
He follows up with a stoneskin on himself and one on Gareth (dmg reduction from physical attacks 10/+5, through 120 points).
And he finishes off with a Cat's Grace on himself (+4) and Bull's Strength on himself (+2). "I can boost the strength of 2 more. Who wants it?"
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