DM JK Monday February 4th, 2002 9:07:47 AM
Somehow, the journey down to see the Underlord takes nearly 2 weeks. It seemed that some sort of distraction always popped up and caught your attention, but you've finally made it. In the interim Nonam's passion weed finally wore off. It even wore off of Gareth after Jus mixed his candy into the big warrior's food.
Now you're back on your way down to see the Underlord with a sense of deja vu. It's around the noon hour, and Jus has his spells in action just like before.
As you journey down, you can't help but notice the stench of the lower levels. The trash level is the worst of all. Placed below the gates that enter the city, it's not often that you make it down here. The streets are crowded, dark, and unfamiliar. It's been a long time since any of you have had to come down here. Was the last time when the group met Onrad? That was quite the meeting.
The Undercity of the Underlord dominates the landscape as you walk down the ramp and survey the surroundings. When this was a Teucri city, the Undercity was no doubt a beautiful citadel. The white limestone walls probably gleamed in the artifical light from the ceiling. Now the walls have been coated with years of soot from the fireplaces and ovens of the denizens of the trash level. Their filth has covered everything. It even seems to have deposited itself on the ceiling here. The magical light doesn't penetrate through the grime, and the artificial sky seems hazier than it does on the other levels.
Instantly you gain access to the Undercity. The Underlord's dwelling is beautiful on the inside. If only there weren't so many windows to constantly remind you of where you are. You are shown to the Underlord's chamber. A sixth sense warning of danger immediately tickles your nerves as you approach the door. Where's the guard? Why is it so quiet?
The next few moments seem to pass in slow motion. You quickly enter the room. There's the guard that should have been outside. Slumped over leaning against the wall. No blood. Probably had his neck broken. His sword is still in its scabbard. His placement doesn't look natural. No doubt he was killed in the hall and dragged inside.
Where's the Underlord? There. The form in the center of the floor. Blood is still flowing from a slit throat. The cut is so deep that the head nearly came off. The Underlord's sword lies on the floor a few feet away. There is no blood on the blade. Rumors rate the Underlord as a top notch swordsman. Clearly, the assassin was skilled.
A window stands open at the far side of the room. Your guide through the Undercity starts screaming for the guards, and the world seems to speed back up.
DMJK Monday February 4th, 2002 9:16:29 AM 1100xp each for the last scene. 150xp bonus to Cantos for taking the body to the shrine. 100xp to Tericus for being a good priest and trying to heal the crazy guy. 50xp to Nonam for loving on Qualde.
Tericus d20+22=25 Monday February 4th, 2002 9:34:38 AM
Not really knowing what else to do, Tericus moves to the Underlord and examines the wound. After a moment he says, "I'm wary to suggest it, but I have a resurrection spell memorized. Do you think I should use it?"
Gareth d20+1=17 Monday February 4th, 2002 11:22:42 AM
The warrior races to the open window in hopes of seeing the fleeing assassin (Spot DC 17). He leaps from the window and begins to scan the area (activates winged boots - I'm assuming we're not on the ground level?). Over his shoulder he calls "Yes Tericus, I'd say raising one of the two leaders of the city we serve would be a good idea. As I recall, the sooner it happens after death the easier it is. Better hurry."
Cantos Monday February 4th, 2002 7:57:43 PM
Cantos looks around to see if anyone else is in the room and then help Tericus with his resurrection spell if needed.
Jus Tuesday February 5th, 2002 1:41:21 AM
Jus nods towards Tericus as he runs over to the Underlord. Casting a spell, Jus tries to Detect Poison, makeing sure Tericus' ressurection isn't in vain.
After telling Tericus the results, Jus looks around, ensuring nobody is hiding within the room -- especially up above and in the shadows.
Qualde Tuesday February 5th, 2002 4:18:52 AM
After spending two weeks consulting with former clerics of Domi in Alemi's temple, Qualde is almost glad to be back in the thick of secular life. "Poison, paranoia, and political murder," she mutters. "Feels just like home."
The drow stands in the doorway with her back to one side of the jam, to control traffic into and out of the chamber. "You," she tells the screaming guide. "They hear, and they come. Teresalia's man casts very important ritual, will take time. Only most important may enter. You must stay calm, tell me which to allow. Do you understand? Know you of legal reason not to resurrect Underlord?"
Addinein Tuesday February 5th, 2002 5:38:32 AM
Addinein smiles at his sister's comment. While everyone else is taking their actions, Addiniein will scour the area for any more clues. (maybe secret doors and what not?)
Tericus Tuesday February 5th, 2002 9:15:47 AM
(sorry for posting twice, but i wont be able to get on again today) Taking a deep breath, Tericus prepares the Underlord's body then begins the spell of ressurection
Nonam Tuesday February 5th, 2002 9:31:57 AM
Seeing things under control in the room, Nonam casts fly and leaps out the window with Gareth. Hoping two sets of eyes will find the culprit faster.
DM JK Tuesday February 5th, 2002 10:00:12 AM
Gareth and Nonam quickly spot a likely culprit. A woman with a greatsword strapped to her back is running across a lower rooftop. Running very quickly, she reaches the edge and leaps down, she is momentarily out of the line of sight. Though she shouldn't be hard to catch for the fliers.
Tericus starts setting up for the resurrection spell and knows that it will take several minutes. Jus and Cantos find no one else in the room. A quick peek out the window reveals a balcony overhanging a lower roof. It's made in such a way that it would allow a quick exit though it would be hard to climb up. No doubt the assassin is gone. Jus detects no poison, and Cantos helps Tericus as he can.
Addinein studies the scene. Judging from the wound marks, he surmises that the assassin used the fighting style of the drow blademaster, Denrae'il Mer'ax. Remembering a little bit of drow history, he knows that Denrae'il was once considered the best blademaster in Menzo. Then one of his female students slew him in combat. The traitor used the sword Sa'ariss (he wonders what that translates to in common, Ice Venom?) that was stolen from the drow bladesmith Mu'ra a few centuries before. Most drow wondered if theif and traitor were one in the same. Closer inspection, Addinein notices that some of the blood in the wound is frozen. If Denrae'il's killer is the assassin, then Gareth will probably need help.
Qualde stands in the door ready to direct traffic. She hears the guards running to the alarm call and gets ready to direct them. When they round the corner and spot Qualde at the door to the Underlord's chamber, one of them shouts, "DROW!" 5 guards immediately start charging toward the door with swords in hand. She just has time to notice a fat, sweaty priest puffing along behind them.
Nonam Tuesday February 5th, 2002 12:27:26 PM
Nonam tries using that Knight of the Realm ring to communicate what he's seeing to everyone else, "Looks like one woman with a sword. She's on the roof trying to get away."
Nonam tries to tail the fleeing suspect. Once he reestablishes visibility and is close enough, he'll cast a Polymorph Other spell and attempt to turn her into a slug.
Gareth (Flying, Invisible) d20+2=21 d20+23=32 d20+8=23 Tuesday February 5th, 2002 1:01:34 PM
As the warrior hurtles through the air toward his quarry, he activates his invisibility ring in hopes of catching the swordswoman unaware. If he is able to close with the woman this round, he will tackle her, using his body as a weapon to smash her to the ground or wall - whichever is expedient. He tries to get almost directly above her and do a nose dive (i.e. the best angle to maximize damage) - not worried about hurting himself in the process (Dex Check DC 21, Hit AC 32 plus any modifiers for surprise, DMG would be 1d6 for every 10' distance fallen - or equivalent speed). Once done he will grapple her down and prevent her from moving (Str Check DC 23).
NOTE: Didn't know if we were in melee yet so I placed multiple actions - Gareth will proceed as far as possible along the chosen path.
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 120) d20+3=5 d20+3=17 Tuesday February 5th, 2002 2:57:15 PM
'Figures,' Jus thinks as he sees the guards rushing towards the doors, 'just when I decide not to memorize Grease.'
Jus stands between the Underlord and the guards, hoping to get their attention before they enter the room. He bellows as loud and intimidating as he can (Intimidation roll of 5; hero point reroll of 17), "Halt! We are the Storm Dragons!" Seeing the priest, Jus points his finger at the portly fellow and commands him, "You! Help Tericus resurrect the Underlord!"
"The rest of you!" Jus yells at the guards, "An assassin has fled through that window," he says pointing to the open glass. "Two of our Dragons are in pursuit; lend them aid."
If the guards persist in their desire to fight, Jus vents some frustration in a growl and casts Solid Fog across the doorway, between the guards and Qualde.
Qualde Wednesday February 6th, 2002 12:46:07 AM
"I am Qualde, friend of Storm Dragons!" she calls to the approaching guards. Qualde groans in frustration. What a time for racial prejudice to rear its head! "You, guide. These people are legitimate?" Standing athwart the threshold, she awaits confirmation from him before letting any pass. Should they attack her, she defends herself and the chamber on full defensive.
Addinien Wednesday February 6th, 2002 5:32:55 AM
Using the ring, Addinein quickly outlines what he surmises about the Assassin. As he relays the information, he looks to his sister for confirmation of what he says.
"Gareth, be very careful around this one."
The stand off (DM JK) Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:32:33 AM
The guards arrive at the room, swords are still out, and they're almost ready to attack. They are clearly confused by the situation. One of them mutters something about storm dragons having drow members. The party's guide wheezes a bit and croaks out that Qualde is telling the truth, but it sounds like the same sort of thing that he would say if he was a hostage. The leader seems willing to go along with the idea for now, but he clearly radiates hate. The situation balances on the edge of a knife.
The puffing priest pushes his way in to help Tericus to leave the sword slingers to figure things out. Tericus sees a symbol of Alemi about the man's neck. He watches Tericus a moment and says, "I can do a true resurrection and save your spell, brother. Caring for the Underlord is one of the reasons that I am here."
Tericus Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:34:56 AM
Concentrating on his spell casting, Tericus doesn't acknowledge all the commotion that is going on around him.
Meanwhile Outside (DM JK) d20+13=23 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:48:05 AM
Nonam and Gareth trail the suspect and Nonam spots her first, he casts his polymorph while flying after her. In that same instant Gareth activates his ring of invisibility. Nonam's spell puts the group into combat.
Nonam's spell has no effect on the running woman, but she obviously feels the magic that is cast. She draws her sword out in a fluid movement and leaps from the ground. She spins, sees Nonam, and flies straight for him.
Already in the process of diving, Gareth reaches her first and attacks, becoming visible in the process. She easily dodges, as if she knew he were there, and pushes on toward Nonam. Gareth carries on a little past her. He'll have to fly back up to get her (having to move more than 5 feet, so next round can do standard attack, not full).
(We have aerial combat 2 rounds out from the Underlord's window. The combatants are roughly 200 feet out and in clear view of those inside the room.)
Nonam d20+13=33 d20+13=29 13d6(5+4+6+6+1+1+3+6+5+3+3+5+2)=50 5d4(4+2+1+2+4)+5=18 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:57:29 AM
Already not liking the way this seems to be going, Nonam starts with the big spells. He casts chain lightning followed by a quickened magic missile which trips his contingency and surrounds him in a stoneskin. The chain lighting comes off and jolts the woman (50dmg, ref 1/2). Then the 5 magic missiles pelt her one after another (18dmg). Nonam looks rather confident as his stoned skin sparkles in the artificial light (10/+5,for 150pts).
Gareth (50% Displaced, Flying) d20+27=40 d10+16=23 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 11:22:45 AM
The warrior replies back through his ring "Thank you Addinein. What can you tell me about her?"
The warrior does an about face and closes with the woman. He draws only his bastard sword and swings it with both hands. He doesn't bother talking but instead focuses on taking this one down fast - seeing the efficiency of her work in the very recent past (Hit AC 40, 23 DMG).
(STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:36:09 PM OOC: miscalculated HPs from the CON increase last time, adjusted here
Jus glances over the guards, determining which is the leader. "You," he says, pointing at the one in charge. "What's your Name?" This given, he tells the man that it is likely that another attempt will be made on the Underlord's life once it returns.
"Send for more men and guard the entrances to this room," Jus tells him.
"Qualde, Addinien, Cantos," he continues, "Cantos and one of you two, go catch up to Gareth and Nonam; they may need our help. If wanted, I'll cast fly upon one of you. But go quickly."
Heading back to the Underlord, Jus asks those around him, "Some spells allow you to see what has happened in a room. Priest," Jus asks as he draws the Underlord's priest of Alemi away from Tericus and the body, "do you have such a spell?"
With the recent events, Jus doesn't trust this priest as what he claims to be. He doesn't trust any of the guards, for that matter.
Puffy the Priest Wednesday February 6th, 2002 3:59:35 PM
The priest looks at Jus and pants a bit, "I know of no divine spells that would reveal what has happened. There is the legend lore spell, but it would take longer to cast than the resurrection. It wasn't really intended for such purpose. Speak with dead might be appropriate, but I failed to pray for it this morning. I didn't expect it to come up. You have my oath that we are hear to help. If you submit to swearing an oath to Alemi that you are the Storm Dragons and here to help the Underlord, then the guards will stop this... this irritation."
Cantos Haste Wednesday February 6th, 2002 8:14:09 PM
Cantos nods at Nonam," I will need Fly cast on me." After it is Cantos casts Haste on himself and flies straight towards the combat readying himself for combat.
ooc Sorry for not posting yesterday
Qualde Thursday February 7th, 2002 12:08:11 AM
Qualde step back from the standoff, leaving the guards to, well, guard. She shakes her head in reply to Jus. "I can't fly, shoot, or cast. Jus, can you support outside with bow or spell? I will take Alemi's oath, so that all may know my brother and I intend no harm here."
Tericus Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:45:18 AM
After seeing the priest's holy symbol, Tericus stops casting his spell, knowing that he can always cast it again if things go wrong. Walking up to Cantos, Tericus says, "I can't cast fly, but this is almost just as good." Then he casts air walk on Cantos (you can move through air as if you were walking normally, it will last 110 minutes). Then Tericus walks over to Jus and tells the priest, "If you're going to save him, do it now or I'll go back and do it myself."
DM JK d20+18=21 d20+22=41 d20+22=41 d20+22=39 d20+22=31 d100=82 2d6(1+4)+15=20 2d6(3+6)+15=24 2d6(4+2)+15=21 2d6(1+1)+15=17 d6=6 d6=2 d20+33=42 5d6(5+1+3+1+5)=15 Thursday February 7th, 2002 8:51:39 AM
Since Tericus is casting airwalk on Cantos, Jus is able to cast fly on Qualde. Cantos casts haste and starts running toward the aerial battle. Hasted and having wasted no time, Cantos will reach the fight in the next round. Since she waited to take the oath, it will take Qualde 2 rounds. It dawns on everyone that the woman in Addinein's story was a drow. The woman outside clearly is not. She looks like an elf. Nonam and Gareth are close enough to see that she's extraordinarily beautiful and has purple eyes that are filled with an intense hatred. Nonam's detect magic vision goes wild as she approaches him. There's nothing about the woman that isn't magical.
In the air, the woman apparently takes full damage from both of Nonam's spells. Her hair stands on end as the lightning courses through her body (miss reflex w/21), and the magic missiles leave small burn marks. Gareth lands his blow as well, but he can tell it doesn't do full damage. His experienced eye then notices the glittering skin produced by a stoneskin.
Despite having taken a good bit of injury, the woman laughs gleefully, "You have improved since we last met. It's a pity you were oathbreakers. You could have been great, but you stole my gifts. Now you will feed the worms if there is anything left!" She seems quite unreasonable toward the end of her speech.
She flows through the air gracefully in a powerful whirlwind attack. Her first attack strikes Nonam a critical blow (41[41]). The second strikes Gareth with a critical blow as well. (39[31]82). The damage is immense, she puts a level of powewr into the blow that greatly exceeds her size. She metes out 54 (20,24,+5 each I forgot) points of blade damage to Nonam and 48 to Gareth (21,17,+5 ea). The frost blade adds insult to injury giving Nonam an extra 6 pts damage and Gareth an extra 2.
The fearsome opponent then does something that boggles Nonam's mind, a thin green ray shoots from her bare forehead and strikes Gareth's sword. Nonam recognizes a quickened disintegrate, somehting that should be impossible. Gareth just feels his sword wanting to come apart.
(sword fort DC 22 or it's gone, it takes 15 dmg if it saves, enough to render it useless now, though possibly it would be repairable) (saves for magic items are 2 + 1/2 the caster level rounded down. Telekinesis is the sword's greatest power which takes a 9th lvl caster. I'll give the benefit of the doubt and bump the caster level up by 5 to 14. That would give a +9 to the fort save. Common hitpoints for a greatsword = 10. +2 for the plus on the weapon.)
Nonam d20+10=25 Thursday February 7th, 2002 8:59:12 AM
Nonam screams a bit too much like a girl when he gets hit. Knowing if he casts this close she can hit him anyway, Nonam runs for it. He flies backward and upward and casts dispel magic on the assassin, hoping that she'll fall, lose the stoneskin, or whatever other magic she is using.
(He makes a 25, sufficient to beat spells of a 14th lvl caster)
AAO on Nonam d20+22=25 2d6(3+2)+20=25 d6=1 Thursday February 7th, 2002 9:05:04 AM
As Nonam flees, the assassin takes an attack of opportunity and srikes him for another 25 pts, +1 from the chill of the frost blade.
Gareth (50% Displaced, Flying) d20+9=25 d20=15 d20+23=24 d20+23=36 Thursday February 7th, 2002 10:28:05 AM
The sword shudders and goes "quiet" in his hands, but somehow holds together (Fort DC 25). The warrior exclaims both verbally and into the ring of dragons "Tarentellia the deep drake!" as he recognizes the only opponent who was purple, gave them gifts, and to whom they took an oath (Int DC 15). "We did not break our oath, nor did we steal your gifts - and I can prove it! Why have you come and done this thing? What benefit would such a thing do for one such as you?!". The warrior moves backwards hoping the dragon will talk instead of fight. He also sheathes his damaged sword and simultaneously draws his short sword - not wanting to stand in front of one so powerful unarmed, though he's pretty sure it won't make much difference. He parries if she attacks (AC 36 - reroll 1 w/ hero point).
Cantos Haste Airwalk and mage armor Thursday February 7th, 2002 11:52:01 AM
Cantos shudders at teh amount of damage that the elf is doing and quickly casts Mage armor on himself then cast Hold Monster on the elf hoping that slows her down. DC 17
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) Thursday February 7th, 2002 1:53:59 PM
Not knowing what ensues outside since he doesn't wear the communication ring, Jus tells the others, "Go catch up to the two trouble makers and see if you can do anything."
Jus tells Qualde to head out, now that she has the fly spell cast on her, she needs to use it. "I'll take the oath," which Jus does as the others leave. "In Alemi's good name I declare we are the Storm Dragons," Jus says looking at the guards, memorizing each face. "Guard his life should it return -- to your death."
"Come Tericus," Jus says as he heads towards the window, grabbing a chair or anything that will help him reach the sill. Once up, he looks for the rest of the party, determining if there is a foot route between here and there.
"Well, friend," Jus says, putting a hand on Tericus' shoulder. "I have dimension door I can use on myself to get there in an instant. But unless you have something similar, we need to travel together."
Addinein Thursday February 7th, 2002 2:54:22 PM
Reacting to Gareth's news, Addinein talks to through the ring. "What other news is there of this drake? Did the city do something the Drake not want? Is the Underlord a dragon, or a perceived dragon, maybe?"
"I will stay, in order to help here, and be 'hostage', if these need it. I can also relay any news for the priest that is here, and maybe for the Underlord."
Looking at the priest that is still in the chamber. "What has the Underlord been doing these past couple of days?"
Tericus Friday February 8th, 2002 7:02:59 AM
"I dont have anything that will get us there, so cast your spell." Tericus says. then before Jus casts, Tericus cast divine power on himself. once its done, Tericus's muscles bulge out from under his robe(gained 18 strength, attack bonuses of an 11th level fighter, and 11 bonus hps)
ouch (DMJK) d20+13=16 Friday February 8th, 2002 9:55:54 AM
Nonam's dispel magic didn't slip past her spell resistance. Cantos' spell had no effect either.
Gareth's protestations of innocence cause Trantellia to round on him instead of Nonam, "You promised you would return my vial alone if necessary. Perhaps you still have your gifts, but the wizard sold his! I believed you once. Never. NEVER. NEVER AGAIN!" She doesn't seem extraordinarily reasonable about the whole thing.
She doesn't attack with her sword again, but she does cast feeblemind on Nonam. (will dc21 w/-4).
Jus has by now heard Addinein talking in the room, so he knows that Gareth believes he is fighting Trantellia. Surveying the situation out the window, Jus sees that they could run across rooftops most of the way there. It would take a good bit of time. He could use dimension door, but they still wouldn't be close enough to the aerial combatants to engage in melee. From the window, the combatants are about 200 ft away. From the likely dimension door location, the combatants would be about 30ft overhead.
The puffy priest looks at Addinein, "If the Underlord were a dragon, he would have transformed to his original shape in death. I have no answer to your other questions. The Underlord has been working closely on the Overlord's agenda." The puffy priest looks up at the guards, "What are you still doing in here? Get some casters and bowmen out there!"
Cantos arrives at the melee. Qualde will soon be there.
Nonam d20+6=8 d20+6=25 d20+11=29 5d6(6+3+1+2+6)=18 Friday February 8th, 2002 10:06:23 AM
Nonam overcomes the feeblemind (w/ a hero point). The wizard is a quick learner, and he casts disintegrate on her sword. The thin green ray hits AC 29, and Nonam silently hopes that he will bypass her spell resistance since he didn't target her.
Gareth (50% Displaced) d20+26=43 d20+21=25 d20+16=34 d20+26=44 d20+26=33 d6+13=17 d6+13=15 d6+13=14 d6+13=18 d6+13=19 d20+19=24 Friday February 8th, 2002 11:14:31 AM
The warrior bellows back to the dragon. "The vial was DESTROYED by the Matron or by the attacks on her - I do not know which! There was nothing to return to you! And we had no way to get back to your lair. We barely survived to escape! And you did not require we return the items anyway, only the vial - which we could not. And you did not say there was a time limit on our return! These things were NOT in our deal! We had no way to contact you - we did not know where your lair is exactly. We had no WAY!". Then the warrior turns grim and says dangerously. "If you continue this, you may kill some of us, but you very well may die in this battle. We have improved more than you might imagine, having ascended to dragon level, like the Gold Dragons - and we have killed another evil huge dragon already. I do not want to fight you - but I will... (Intimidate DC 24 - last roll in list)". The warrior glides slowly around and away from Nonam as he speaks so that there is no way the dragon can catch them both in a spell or other attack. If the dragon moves to attack Nonam or himself, the warrior launches his two handed attacks on her, and looks for any attacks of opportunity if she casts on Nonam. He holds fast his attacks if she does not strike. (Ht AC 43,[44],25,34,[33] for 17+[18]+15+14+[19]=83 DMG)
Cantos Airwalk, Haste, Magearmor, d20+17=26 d20+12=20 d20+17=20 d6+2=6 d6+2=7 d6+2=7 Friday February 8th, 2002 1:19:04 PM
Cantos goes around the elf so that she is between Gareth and himself. " What the hell are you 2 talking about, and what does this have to do with you murdering the Underlord?" Cantos will hold his attacks if Gareth does but if Gareth attacks so will he hitting AC 26, 20 , 20 for 6, 7 and 7 points of Damage.
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) Sunday February 10th, 2002 10:27:44 PM
Jus visibily starts when he hears that Trantellia is out there. "Addinein, Tericus, let's go," he yells. "If they're really fighting Trant, the party needs all of us." Jus has presence of mind to tell the guards that Trantellia is a crazy, ancient, evil dragon and that they had better get as many reenforecments as they can.
While moving towards the melee, Jus slips his Ring of Spell Storing off and the communication ring on (using Quick Draw feat?). "Nonam," Jus speaks through the ring, "don't hesitate to use your teleport ring to get us out of here if we can't defeat her."
Jus then casts Haste on himself and begins preparing a couple of more spells.
Qualde (Hasted) d20+17=25 d8+9=13 Sunday February 10th, 2002 11:54:48 PM
Midflight, Qualde activates her Boots of Speed. She maneuvers around Trantellia to place herself roughly opposite Nonam, and strikes at the glittering stoneskin over one shoulder. (AC 25, 13hp)
Addinein Monday February 11th, 2002 1:15:26 AM
"You go. I will be along shortly. I wish to pass to this priest what transpires with Trantellia. Once there is no chance for mis-understanding, then I will come."
DM JK d20+13=33 d20+23=28 Monday February 11th, 2002 9:13:29 AM
Nonam's spell doesn't make the female assassin's sword disapppear, but it renders it useless like Gareth's. The woman screams in rage and quickly slides her sword back in the scabbard.
Next everyone gets a lesson in just how quickly a dragon can revert to its true form. The woman shifts and grows into a huge dragon almost instantly. Gareth, Nonam, and Cantos find that they are pushed back by the huge body. Fortunately everyone is in the air, so you don't take any type of crushing damage. Nonam is now above the dragon. Cantos and Qualde are near the tail and hind legs, and Gareth finds that he is now directly in front of the gaping jaws of a really big dragon. Noxious fumes come from the cavernous maw. The dragon quickly focuses on Gareth and speaks, "We are not playing games little man. You are indeed stronger, perhaps even a bit smarter, but you are nowhere near having the ability to destroy me."
Then the dragon fear hits. (will dc 31 or you are shaken (ie. -2 to attacks, saves, and checks)).
The dragon doesn't actually move to attack, so Gareth and Cantos hold their attacks. Qualde strikes, but finds that the attempt is quite useless.
Tericus and Jus, still watching from the window, see a small pouch fall from her belt during the transformation. It lands on a rooftop below.
Addinein sees that the guards have followed the priest's orders and have left the room. He can hear shouts down the halls and the stamping of booted feet. The priest appears to be preparing the Underlord just as Tericus had been
Tericus(divine power) Monday February 11th, 2002 9:33:29 AM
glancing back at the priest, Tericus says to Jus "Cast your spell where that pouch fell. It may have something in it we can use." then he cast prot. from elements on himself(prot. from fire, absorbs 132 pts of damage)
Gareth (50% Displaced) d20+5=17 d20+25=35 d20+20=28 d20+15=35 d20+25=30 d6+13=16 d6+13=16 d6+13=18 d6+13=14 Monday February 11th, 2002 10:59:07 AM
The warrior feels rather small as the huge creature takes her true form. "Magnificent indeed great Wyrm...". He had a speech all ready to go but just can't seem to get it out as his intimidation is quite significant (only chance to save was a natural 20, oh well...). The warrior holds again, trying to stall so that reinforcements can arrive if the fight cannot be averted. There's even this foolish feeling of hope/euphoria he may avert this altogether! He speaks out again, but it probably sounds more like stammering "Did you really come all this way just for us!?! Why have you killed the Underlord? All you had to do was contact us and we would have come - or at least spoken. Is it truly necessary for us to do battle? We killed your greatest enemy and all her children and children's children, that must be worth something.". The warrior is ready to launch his attacks in an instant. If she twitches in any way that looks like casting or any other attack he'll strike, focusing on her eyes - trying to blind her or even get lucky and hit her brain. He'll stab at her thrice, hitting at least once (Hit AC 33,26,33-nat 20!,[28] for 16+16+18+14=64 DMG). He says into his ring telepathically "Tericus, I am going to need you immediately. I doubt I can stand more than a few moments against her...".
Note: the natural 20 does 18 DMG, AC is adjusted for short sword and -2 fear.
Nonam 10d6(5+2+6+3+3+1+1+5+2+2)=30 d20+13=32 13d6(5+4+3+5+5+6+1+3+2+4+2+4+6)=50 d20+13=29 d20+6=17 Monday February 11th, 2002 5:46:02 PM
Nonam feels a little more afraid now, but now that Trantellia is huge, he also doesn't have to worry about hitting anyone else with the area spells. He lets Gareth do the talking while he focuses on hitting her backside. He casts a quickened fireball followed by another bolt of chain lightning.
(fireball =30, hit SR of 30 (32-2 for shaken), ref for 1/2; chain =50 hit SR27, ref 1/2)
Jus [STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 31 (+4 for haste); HP 96] d4=3 d20+14=34 Monday February 11th, 2002 7:35:42 PM
"Right, Tericus. As soon as I do this one more thing."Jus continues his previous movement, getting another 30' closer, "Nonam, did you hear me? Don't forget about the ring!" As an aside, he casts his thoughts back towards Addenidin, "Let us know if you need help back there Addenedin."
Jus then casts Spectral Hand (3HP, 26AC), following by Bestow Curse using his enhanced, Hasted, speed.
When in range (180'), Jus uses the Spectral Hand to deliver his Bestow Curse touch attack (Natural 20 on ranged touch attack roll; save vs. Will or 50% chance of inaction every round).
Cantos Airwalk, Haste, Mage Armor d20+12=30 d20+15=27 d20+10=20 d20+15=26 d6+2=6 d6+2=8 d6+2=8 Monday February 11th, 2002 8:46:28 PM
Cantos shakes slightly as the dragons fear takes effect and eases to the right 5 foot so that he and qualde are further apart. "Spread out!!!" he shouts," So she cant get us all at once." With that said he will strikes the dragon 3 times hitting AC 27 20 and 26 for 6 8 and 8 points of damage.
Addinein (+7 AC, +3 reflex) d20+6=16 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:13:10 AM
Seeing the perperations for the Underlord are being completed, Addinein starts to prepare to move outside. As the dragon transforms, Addinein feels a little unnerved about the whole affair, as he peers out the window at her. Quickly readying a spell, Addinein cast shield. "throught the ring. I'm getting ready to help. If I can do anything else, let me know"
DM JK d20+41=59 4d6(1+1+3+6)+12=23 d20+21=35 d20+18=33 d20+18=21 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:52:54 AM
Gareth hammers blows on the dragon. All but one bounce off the thick dragon hide, and that one has a diminished effect due to the stone skin. Trantellia snarls, "I didn't come here for you little man. How vain you are... just like I remember. I came for the Underlord for my own reasons, you Three are just bonus."
Trantellia attempts to bite the warrior before her. Gareth has no way to get out of her way as the gigantic jaws clamp down quickly on him(AC59). The intial impact of the teeth does 23 pts damage, but then the dragon snatches Gareth up and keeps him dangling from her jaws. (grapple check is automatic for her, humanoids are too small to avoid it.) It doesn't take Gareth long to realize that he's in a bad spot.
Nonam's spells hit the dragon on the back. Somehow the massive creature dodges out of the way of some of the fireball to take half damage, but the chain lightning works to full effectiveness. Trantellia is not amused and zaps Nonam with another quickened disintegrate.
(1 of 2)
DMJK d20+41=47 5d6(4+4+5+4+5)=22 d20+8=14 d20+36=56 2d8(1+8)+18=27 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 10:12:00 AM
The disintegrate spell hits Nonam in the middle of the chest (will DC22 for 22dmg).
Jus' spectral hand touches the dragon, but he doesn't overcome her spell resistance (14).
Cantos hammers on the dragon but to no effect. To retaliate she slaps him with her tail (AC56). The gigantic whiplike appendage strikes him for 27dmg.
Addinein prepares.
Down below in the street, guards are finally starting to arrive on the scene. A few start to come out on the rooftops. They all seem to have bows, but they're also scared to death. There seem to be aa few mages with them which is evident as a fireball explodes into the dragon's underbelly. Compared to the one Nonam just cast this one was small, but a little help is always a good thing.
DMJK Tuesday February 12th, 2002 10:12:44 AM
btw: her AC is 38 and SR is 27
Gareth (50% Displaced) Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:28:10 PM
Seeing his attacks merely bouncing off the huge Wyrm, the warrior decides to take a different approach. He pulls off a ring he was wearing with his teeth and swallows it - wondering if that is merely a precursor to what's about to happen to him. He then reaches into his belt pouch and pulls out his ring of regeneration and puts it on, hoping there will be something left of him to regenerate from. He thinks into his ring, "I am lost! Best of luck, my friends.". All the time he makes sure and keep his arms outside the gaping jaws in hopes that he can at least prevent himself from being swallowed, hoping to get one last attack.
Nonam d20+6=23 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:55:05 PM
Fortunately Nonam makes his will save and doesn't disintegrate. Then Nonam casts a wall of force into Trantellia's mouth, between her throat and Gareth so that she can't bite down on him any harder, breath on him, or swallow him. Plus the wall is imovable, so she'd have to let go of him to move her head.
Cantos Airwalk, mage armor, haste, d20+14=29 d20+12=31 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:29:05 PM
"Oh crap!" Cantos blurts out as he takes the damage from the dragon's tail. "We need help and lots of it quickly," he shouts. Realizing that he can't do much physically he backs off and draws his bow hoping to hit a tender spot like an eye. He aims carefully and lets loose with an arrow aimed for her eye missing completely.
Tericus(divine power, prot from fire) Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:35:03 AM
"Jus, we need to go now!" Tericus says to Jus. "The others are getting their butts kicked. Move us to where that pouch fell. If anything else, we can at least have a better field of firing."
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) d20=6 d20+8=22 d20+8=11 d20+8=28 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:54:19 AM
Jus curses, "Right Tericus, I got a bit focused." Jus becons to Addinein to run over to them. Jus then casts Dimension Door, touching Tericus' shoulder (and Addinein's, if he's nearby and willing), porting the group onto a roof close to the bag. Jus attempts to land them at a spot sufficiently behind Trant to mask their arrival, but close enough to the bag that someone could dash over and grab it.
As soon as they reappear, Jus speaks through the group's ring, "Spread out! Gareth, this is Jus," Jus reminds his comrade in case he's too distracted by the incredible size of the dragon's teeth (and stench of its breath), "accept my spell through my Spectral Hand's touch!"
Jus uses his hasted state to cast again and deliver a Magic Circle Against Evil upon Gareth using the Spectral Hand [Gareth: +2 AC; +2 Saves; Trant is repelled and can't get within 10' of Gareth until Gareth attacks Trant, I burned two hero points to beat Trant's SR of 27]
Tericus, since you only talked, you can still do something this round. Addinein, if you take up Jus' offer on the Dimension Door, you're there and ready to act.
Qualde (Hasted, Fly) 4d8(6+3+5+7)+7=28 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 8:25:40 AM
The drow flies toward Nonam, pulling out a scroll along the way. Upon arriving, she reads a Cure Critical Wounds spell from the scroll, restoring 28hp to the mage.
Addinein Wednesday February 13th, 2002 8:47:33 AM
Taking up Jus's offer, Addienin moves over to go through the Dimension door. Once in place, Addinein pulls out a scroll, and casts fly.
DMJK d20+27=43 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 9:34:20 AM
The guards and undercity mages become a little more active. A few more fireballs and lots of tiny arrows strike the big dragon.
Nonam and Jus get their spells in place to help Gareth out, and Trantellia spits out the pesky warrior. Gareth's seen worse. He's even looked worse, but the blood and thick dragon saliva mixture that covers him now isn't pretty.
The dragon swings her serpentine head back away from the warrior, "It seems that we have some company. I suppose that I'll have to deal with all of you some other time." She concentrates, casts, and is gone. She's teleported somewhere. The artificial sky is clear.
Tericus bends down to look in the bag on the roof. The bag is heavy, and the priest hears the tale-tell jingle of coins inside when he picks it up. A quick peek reveals a number of platinum coins and a note. It reads:
The leaders of Floating City are proving troublesome. Remove one of them from leadership so as to invoke Turtle Law. Perhaps the next officials will cooperate with Plateau. -V
Gareth's sword says, "Take me to the weaponsmith."
Gareth Wednesday February 13th, 2002 11:15:37 AM
The warrior spits back at the dragon "We'll find YOU next time!" After that he just hovers there - not sure whether to bellow in anger or sigh in relief as the dragon leaves. In a moment he gathers his wits, shakes his head - and some of the spittle off, and flies down to those on the roof. "Can any of you see where the dragon went? Can we follow her - I mean follow her later when we're ready?" After looking at the note he says "Vallentino... Not even I could miss that. Seems a bit light on the payment though. A dragon would need more of an incentive to do this than just that."
Nonam Wednesday February 13th, 2002 3:08:27 PM
Nonam looks at Gareth, "She teleported. There's not a simple way to find out where. We could attempt a scrying, but that's not really my area of expertise."
The wizard looks the note over, "His name is Valiano, Gareth. Perhaps he didn't know that she was a dragon. That much platinum is certainly enough to hire a simple assassin. She could have then accepted for any number of reasons that she alone would know. What troubles me is Valiano being associated with such a deed. I thought he was one of the good guys on the council."
"Does anyone know what this bit about Turtle Law is?"
Cantos 3d8(7+5+5)+11=28 2d8(7+8)+11=26 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 9:01:55 PM
"Sheesh...that was...troublesome" Cantos says as he looks over at Gareth." Do you need healing?" If Gareth says yes he will cast Cure Serious wounds on him curing 28 points of damage and then cast Cure Moderate Wounds on himself for 26 points.
Addinein Thursday February 14th, 2002 2:23:40 AM
"I do not know much about this situation. But it seems too easy. Why did she wait until we had engaged her, to teleport? She plays the game of the houses. But how good is she?"
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) Thursday February 14th, 2002 3:33:56 AM
Through the ring, Jus thinks, "Nonam, either destroy the note or hide it beyond any means to find. Right now is not the time to be caught with something like that -- it sounds like a setup."
As he speaks, Jus takes takes off while his haste spell is active, running 120' each round back to the Underlord's chamber. He's got a very bad feeling about this...
Qualde (Haste, Fly) Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:04:21 AM
Qualde flies straight back to check on the Underlord's resurrection. Before Addinein can volunteer her skills, she uses the ring to head him off. "No, brother. She who betrayed us all provided my scrying spells."
The Resurrection (DMJK) Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:53:04 AM
The guards start to spread out with a little more confidence now that the dragon is gone. Pretty soon crowds of people are out on the street below trying to figure out just what happened. The flying party members stick out a like a sore thumb.
Qualde and Jus head back to the Underlord's chamber. The priest seems absolutely absorbed in his task, but the Underlord hasn't moved yet. The puffy priest is sweating away and looks red in the face. He seems to be making little progress. Finally, he looks up, "It's not working. I don't understand it. It's like the soul isn't in the right place or like Gargul is ignoring the summons."
A familiar voice behind Qualde responds, "I have heard similar things from other priests. Even if he is resurrected, the law is quite clear. New elections must be held if either the Under or Overlord dies while in office. Resurrection doesn't change the fact of death, especially as public as this one has been." Jus turns to see the Overlord.
Nonam Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:55:41 AM
Nonam looks at Tericus since he has the note, "Hold on to it, we might need it later." Then Nonam flies back to the Underlord's chamber. Instead of going in, he sits down on the window ledge to think about everything that's just happened.
Gareth Thursday February 14th, 2002 10:10:43 AM
The warrior accepts the spell from Cantos gratefully. "The dragon dropped the bag on purpose. No way one such as her would make a mistake and do it by accident. Why was it with her at all? And why did she not destroy the letter immediately upon reading it? Makes no sense. I hate to bug you guys about magic again, but isn't there some way you can tell how this note and bag was created? Maybe where it has been? I have to agree with Jus, probably a trap, but for sure we'd better hide it. Even if its true we owe Valliano a visit and a chance to vindicate himself.".
As the priests argue over how to raise him, the warrior watches the Overlord carefully. "Nobody outside this room knows he's dead. If we can resurrect him immediately, it would be no different than him being severely injured. Is that not the best solution - or is it more complicated than that? I am not one for politics, but it seems to me stability in the government is most important in this time.".
Tericus Thursday February 14th, 2002 11:31:46 AM
"If we really want to find her, I can scry for her tommrow, but it's beyond my power right now," Tericus says. Pocketing the note, he also says, "I agree with Gareth. Beyond us, who knows that the Underlord was killed?"
Gareth - other business... Thursday February 14th, 2002 3:24:06 PM
When he hears his sword Max speak to him he jumps at the unexpected but quite welcome communication. "Max! I thought you were lost to me! I will take you to the finest weaponsmith in the realm! Are you OK? I mean your mind and powers and such?" He draws him out to examine the damage more closely.
Max Thursday February 14th, 2002 4:00:50 PM
"Well, that priest knows the Underlord died, and Priests of Alemi can't lie, can they? Plus all those guards that came in know. Some have gone back out, and they've probably talked to other guards. Half the undercity probably knows by now. None of that matters though, I hurt all over. Get me fixed!"
Cantos Airwalk, Haste Mage Armor Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:29:28 PM
"Well I am no major magician so I can't help you much there Gareth, but I agree we must find Valiano and get his side of the story," Cantos says as he arrives back in the underlord's chamber.
Addinein Thursday February 14th, 2002 11:56:12 PM
At a loss for words for the moment, Addinein pitches in, in whatever way he can.
Jus (STR+5, DEX+5, CON+4; AC 27; HP 96) Friday February 15th, 2002 4:52:14 AM
Jus falls back, allowing others to speak. He does give one grim nod towards the Overlord, surprised to see him here so quickly.
Jus ponders the situation, wondering why Trant got involved, and why the Underlord hasn't returned. A possible reason comes to mind, although it isn't one he'd like to consider for long.
"I wonder," Jus speaks out loud, "if Gargul has fallen."
"It will be a different world for adventurers and high-profile people if we can't rely on our return," Jus says, nodding to the priest and the elaborate rites he has failed to invoke.
"What next, Gareth?" Jus asks, turing to the party's leader. "I suggest we start taking a more active role. Frankly, I am more than tired of following the river's flow, and if we are to withstand the rapids ahead, we'd better start guiding the boat."
Overlord (DM DEH) Friday February 15th, 2002 11:08:56 AM
The overlord smirks in a grimly amused smile as the adventurers try to wrap their arms around the intricacies of government in Floating City. "My friends, you should leave the governing to me. You know nothing of the power and influece of Turtle Law. After decades of study I still find myself at a loss sometimes. There MUST be new elections. We have no choice but to follow the law as handed down for millennia. If you think we have problems now, go back and read what happens when the law is not followed. This is nothing!"
In a moment, a well armed guard you recognize from the Overlord's palace seems to appear from thin air behind a well disguised portico and walks up to the Overlord in a hurry. He urgently whispers something in his ear that visibly shakes the leader for an instant. "What did you say? Are you sure?" Composing himself, he says, "It appears I have unexpected visitors in my throne room. The Gold Dragons, and (looking back to his guard for confirmation) 15 of the most ancient huge dragons of the Wold in human form are waiting to speak to me. And some of them are Red, Green, Black and Blue... Somehow, I'd say you'd better be there." He directs your gaze to where his guard came from. "Over there is our emergency transport between the 2 throne rooms. It serves as our alarm system and emergency exit. It only allows those who have been attuned to it to go through. It does severe damage to others. As special agents I have had each of you 'programmed' into it. Conclude any business you have here, compose yourselves and let's go through. I need you sharp for this I am sure. I want you with me. I will leave the Underlord's organization to begin preparations for the election." Looking back one last time to the body of the Underlord, clearly troubled at the sight, he strides over to the portico and waits, quite impatiently.
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