Nonam Friday April 12th, 2002 3:05:43 PM
Nonam puts his hand on Gareth's sword arm, "I think that enough has been said. Cantos, I'll be sorry to see you go. I wish you well in your travels. I hope that someday we'll laugh about this over a mug of ale."
Parting Ways - DMJK Friday April 12th, 2002 3:22:12 PM
The three dwarves and Shep step in to keep Cantos and Gareth from escalating their argument.
Boxer and the archon consult for a few moments, and then Shep speaks, "I was summoned here by Kennither, and I shall remain with him. It was ever my intent to leave your group after you reached the dwarves anyway. Hopefully we shall meet again. You have suffered terrible setbacks this week, but I pray that you will remember that Marteaus is the real enemy."
The archon's words are soothing, and he leads Cantos away from the rest of the group. One of the dwarven guards leads them down into the city.
Boxer looks at the rest of the group and whistles, "If the rest of you would kindly follow me." He leads the group down into the city by a different path.
The village seems quiet. Few people are out in the streets. No children seem to be playing. Everything seems deathly quiet. Finally Boxer stops outside a stone building across from a larger structure that looks like a palace. "I thought that I would leave the rest of you here and give you a chance to calm down before you meet with King Melair II. Work things out amongst yourselves, and I'll be back in a bit."
The building has a single room filled with comfortable chairs, a wash basin, and a tray filled with sliced mushrooms.
Gareth Friday April 12th, 2002 3:44:08 PM
Seeing the archon not too insulted by the wayward bard, the warrior calms himself and follows the dwarf. He lets the rage flow out of him, knowing he must be on his game if they are to be of any use against Marteaus. When left alone, he just stands there with the others a moment. Then he without any hint of sarcasm or anger asks the question. "So do you think we would be better served if another spoke for us than I? I only took the job because nobody else wanted it. I'll gladly let someone else do it."
Tericus Saturday April 13th, 2002 9:05:29 AM
Slumping down in one of the chairs, Tericus says, "If you're not comfortable doing it Gareth, then someone else should do it. I think the shock of dying and being brought back got to Cantos. Maybe some time to himself will calm him down, but who knows." Then Tericus puts his fingers on the bridge of his nose and squeezes softly, hoping to relieve some of his stress.
Gareth Sunday April 14th, 2002 8:02:29 PM
"I can do it, I'm just not wanting to if the group feels someone with more skill and diplomacy would be better. This really isn't a personal deal for me, I'm frankly more concerned with how well the group does. If somebody else would be better, then I'm all for it. If you guys think I'm still the guy for the job, that's fine too..."
Addinein Sunday April 14th, 2002 9:53:57 PM
"I do not assume to know anything about what has happened. Tempers have been known to create more misunderstandings than anything else. I'm not sure what we can really do to fix this. Time seems to be against us for us to discuss our options. We need to see this king as soon as possible, I think."
Nonam Monday April 15th, 2002 8:14:58 AM
Nonam sits down and lets out a long sigh, "Gareth, I was just trying to soothe Cantos. I don't think that I would do a better job. You remember the way Onrad and I got along. I can be just as brash as you if I don't have time to think about the results of my responses. Jus has a tendency to avoid serious talk. Addinein is a bit quiet. Tericus has a great deal of wisdom, and I could easily follow him. However, he's never shown a desire to lead. So unless Tericus wants the job, you might as well keep it.
I'd point out one thing for you to keep in mind though. Sometimes, it's best to bend over backwards in an apology. Even if you don't mean it."
The wizard stands up and stretches, "Gods, what an awful few days. I've just been reacting to events while keeping my feet moving. Now that we're here..." Nonam shakes his head and shivers.
DMJK Monday April 15th, 2002 8:16:26 AM
As of yet, no dwarves have come to summon you.
[Another day of posting for this conversation, then we'll have to move on. The YOA awaits.]
Gareth Monday April 15th, 2002 9:15:30 AM
The warrior sits with his friends and begins to relax. "You're right, of course. My skin is probably not a thick as it should be. I just can't stand it when criticism is unjustly heaped on me - but especially on my allies. It's not right. I'm not wise...".
After a time the warrior mulls over the past few days. "Well we at least took a bite out of the horde. Maybe we can take a few more over the next few weeks. It will take them a long time to climb to the next plateau and they'll be focused on that objective. So then we can strike and retreat again and again each time killing a few hundred of them. Perhaps we can cut off their supply lines and food sources. We could even poison their drinking water. Anything to slow them down. Is there any way we can locate Morlas? Maybe if we can find him and suprise him we can take him out once and for all. I'm wondering if we can coordinate with the dwarves and find out about those giants too. Man, there's a lot to do...."
Nonam Tuesday April 16th, 2002 8:25:10 AM
"I have a feeling that this Melair character will give us our next task, so we don't really need to plan it out. I'm more concerned about why Odysseus is no longer the king. As for Morlas, that was a contingency spell that teleported him away. Likely it triggers when he is badly wounded. I'll work on a solution."
Tericus Tuesday April 16th, 2002 8:57:15 AM
"If you don't want to speak for us anymore, I can do it," Tericus says to Gareth. "But personally I think you have done a wonderful job."
DMJK Tuesday April 16th, 2002 9:38:15 AM
There's a knock on the door. Then the door cracks open and Boxer sticks his head in, "They be ready fer ya. Ifn yas all be good nuff to faller me."
He swings the door wide and leads the remnant of the party across the street. The dwarven king's palace lacks the ostentatiousness most of you have come to expect from kings and rulers. Melair's hall is certainly grand, the stone work is exceptional, and there are numerous gold and mithril sculptures about the room. But other than size, it seems little different from what you've seen of the other dwarven dwellings in this city.
Boxer leads you all to an old looking dwarf sitting on a wicker chair. His hair is grey and his braided beard is long enough that it hangs lower than his feet. The beard is split into 2 braids that part around a fabulous ruby in an ornate mithril setting. Tericus immediately recognizes it as Alemi's holy symbol, a very nice one. Atop the dwarf's head sits a thin circlet. The craftsmanship in the crown is exquisite. It appears to be made of gold, silver, adamantite, and mithril woven into a braid. The front center is studded with 3 gemstones shaped into a pyramid. A diamond sits at the top and below it are an emerald and a sapphire. It doesn't take a rogue's trained eye to see that the crown is worth a dragon's fortune, and judging from the look of the tough as nails dwarven honor guard (4 on each side of the room), a dragon's treasure would be just about as easy to take.
The old dwarf looks up when the group comes into the room. A merry twinkle shines in his eye, and nimbly he hops down from the chair, "Welcome to my home. I'm Melair, a humble priest of Alemi... and I guess now I'm King Melair II of the dwarves. Not quite as important in my opinion, but a lofty spot nonetheless." Rather than wait for introductions the old dwarf keeps right on talking, "Let's get right on with business, shall we? Then we can hoist a few mugs and end this unpleasant day. I've only been king for a handful of days as Odysseus fell in battle with the giants. We've beaten the tall monsters back for now, but the toll on our folk was great. The toll on everyone below the plateaus was great. My agents tell me that the scene at Edenmoor was repeated in all the little towns from the southern coast right on up through the Red Hills. The forces of darkness struck the west too and moved against Osto, Fargunia, and Zilthmar. Lankmahr and Ailthmar seem to have disappeared too. The big cities in the west still hold, but they are besieged. The dark army is having a time ascending the plateaus in the east, but they're on their way up. As near as I can tell, Edenmoor is the only place the dark army took significant casualties. Ye did well there, but you only faced about 10,000 of the enemy. A million or more are moving up the plateaus. We thought to harry their supply lines, but they just seem to be eating all the folks they killed. It's a nasty, nasty business. Never in all my centuries have I seen the forces of evil rise up and work in accord like this.
"Times are bleak indeed. Kennither is dead, and your party is fractured. I tried to raise Kennither myself, but his soul refused to return. Seems he likes being with Alemi. Can't say that I blame him. Your bard isn't too happy about it though. He's finally sleeping, but his dreams are troubled. We'll keep him safe here as long as he wants to stay.
"So that brings me to how do we defeat this Marteaus fellow. Kennither and I belonged to a group of priests that believe that Alemi was once a mortal like the rest of us. I've long been a collector of documents that I believe the mortal Alemi wrote. Many of these refer to a diary. I've sought it for decades, and I think that I have some clues about its whereabouts. My duties here prevent me from going after it. I thought I would send you, but first you have to become dwarves. My people wouldn't have it any other way. You face the challenges and succeed, and we'll name you honorary dwarves. Then I can tell you more. Are you ready?"
Melair II looks over at Boxer, "Make sure witnesses are ready at the Stair. We'll have a trial today."
The guards in the room start whispering amongst themselves. It looks like they're making bets.
Gareth Tuesday April 16th, 2002 11:01:49 AM
The warrior smiles at Tericus' words. "I'll continue if that is what the group desires. But it's good to know there is another who will do it."
As the king rises, he bows in respect. When he speaks the warrior is shaken by the news that Kennither refuses to return. He holds his tongue and only nods as he mentions the bard. And he gasps audibly as the sheer number of the army is stated. "It sounds like the giants are being controlled by Marteaus too... We would be honored to aid the king in his noble quest. What will this diary do to help defeat him?"
Jus Tuesday April 16th, 2002 10:00:33 PM
As the party heads to the king, Jus chuckles as he considers Nonam's words. He keeps silent, having nothing to say that won't feed tempers.
When they arrive at the king's chamber, Jus takes the sights in stride. He is, however, surprised by the sheer numbers of the enemy reported by Melair. And troubled by Kennither's failure to return.
Whatever is needed, Jus will give. He's interested in what is meant by "becoming a dwarf", and nods at Gareth's offer to help.
Nonam Wednesday April 17th, 2002 8:04:34 AM
Nonam nods along when he hears of the diary, and thinking ahead, he tries to answer Gareth's question as he puzzles it out, "Books hold information Gareth. Think what this one might contain. If Alemi were once a mortal, then he clearly learned to to become a god. Since Alemi is considered the father of the gods, it stands to reason that he displaced some older gods. The diary could detail his ascension, and we could deny that means to Marteaus. Or it could tell how he defeated the old gods, and we could use that to destroy the Dark Lord. On the other hand, it might just have his old soup recipe."
Intrigued at the idea and wondering what it takes to become an honorary dwarf Nonam addresses Melair II, "I would be happy to undertake this quest. Recovering a lost document of this nature would normally be challenge enough, but also pursuing a definite goal will be a welcome change of pace."
Tericus Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:30:37 AM
At the mention of Alemi's diary, Tericus's eyes light up for the first time in a long time. "I was wondering when I would have a chance to look for it," he says to himself, then he says, "We're ready to become dwarves. Is it going to hurt?"
To the Stair - DMJK Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:36:51 AM
Melair II nods along with Nonam's answer about the bookm and he just grins at Tericus. Then he claps his hands together, "Well then, if you would all be so good as to follow me." The old king leads the way through the dwarven citadel pointing out the significance of various buildings and works of art along the way. His guards follow behind the group at a respectful distance.
Finally, the group arrives at what the old dwarf calls the Stair. It's hardly a name you would choose. They might be stairs for a titan, but certainly not stairs for dwarves or even humans. The rise of each "step" must be 10 feet. The width also appears to be 10 feet. The length is much longer for the steps runs the entire width of the large chamber. At the top of the steps sits an ornate anvil, and a hammer hangs behind it.
Melair points to the steps, "This is the trial all young dwarves face to earn their place in the ranks of our warriors. We all know how it works, but I'll offer a brief explanation for all of you. You must reach the top and ring the hammer on the anvil. Sounds simple so far, eh?" He chuckles and goes on, "The hammer and anvil are mighty magical artifacts, the symbols of our people. In order to heft the hammer, you must pass whatever challenge awaits your group upon each step." He points a finger at Nonam, "So, wizard, you can't just fly up to the top and ring it. Traditionally, the artifacts summon traditional enemies of the dwarves for you to fight on each step, but the challenge changes. So, I don't know exactly what you'll face. As long as one member of your party survives to ring the hammer, the artifact will raise you all. But if you all die upon the steps, then nothing will be able to revive you. This shows unity and loyalty to your brethren. One of you must fight on if your brothers fall. This is the greatest challenge of the stair. Many a time, a young dwarf has struggled on past horrific wounds to sound the hammer 'pon the anvil because he knew more than his own life was at stake!" A gathering crowd of dwarves gives a small hurrah at the king's last statement. It looks like you'll have quite an audience, and more dwarves are drifting in all the time. "You've had some trouble in your ranks of late, so if you don't trust your fellows that remain, now is the time to step aside. This challenge can be hard. In my years, I've seen hordes of goblins, drow war parties, giants, beholderkin, and even worse things summoned. And there's little chance to rest between steps. Choose carefully before you begin the climb. None here will think less of you if you choose to back down. It takes a fierce heart to wear the title of Dwarven Warrior, and we know few others have the might to pass our test!"
The crowd goes wild with the last statement. While they're cheering, Melair whispers to Addinein, "Lad, none of your kind has ever set foot in this place. Many eyes are upon you. Show them the honor of your family. Prove to some of these stubborn old souls that your house stands apart from the rest of drow society."
The cheers die down and Melair II throws up his hands and takes a step back, "The challenge is yours."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5) d20+4=16 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 10:29:39 AM
The warrior looks to all his fellow dragons. "Our strife has never been in battle. We stand together as we always have! (CHA DC 16)." He looks to the others to make sure they are in agreement - and if so he exclaims "The challenge is accepted!"
Once done he turns to the others and says, "So I guess we'd better magic up. I'll take the front, fly up to the next stair, and hold the line while everyone else makes it up. Then you guys can blast'em with magic and arrows. How's that sound?" The warrior quaffs one of the kitty's potions of bull's strength. "There's still 5 healing potions and 5 strength potions in the kitty if anyone wants to take them."
Nonam d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 7:36:22 AM
Nonam starts off with the standard spells from his repetoire. Bull's Strength on Gareth(5) and Addinein(4). Endurance(5) and Cat's Grace(4) on Tericus.
He prepares to cast fly on himself and one other when the rest of the group is ready.
Gareth Thursday April 18th, 2002 8:14:59 AM
Once the spells are cast and everyone is ready, the warrior flies up to the first stair.
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 8:36:28 AM
Answering Melair quickly and quietly, "Thank you for your words. I will do my best to not let you trust in my being here, down either."
As the rest get ready to go, "This sounds like it is should be an all together thing. I think we should all alight to the stairs at the same time. If you go seperately Gareth, you may be lost to us." He then casts Cats Grace on himself (+3) and Gareth (+4) and Endurance on himself (+2) and Gareth (+4) .
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d4+1=3 d4+1=4 Thursday April 18th, 2002 9:37:34 AM
Jus busies himself for the next few rounds casting several spells. He starts with Stone Skin, Bull's Strength, and Endurance on himself. Next comes a couple of Greater Magic Weapons on his bow and arrows (and other member's arrows), and then Keen Weapon on his (and other's) Arrows.
Nodding towards his friends, Jus says, "I'm ready."
"Unfortunately, I don't have fly. Someone will need to carry me, or we need to start pulling out some ropes."
"Oh," Jus adds, almost forgetting something. He pulls out a single glove and slips it onto his left hand. Pulling out his bow, he gives a couple of tugs and smiles. "Let's see if it was worth all that time and money...." Jus ponders.
Nonam Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:03:42 AM
Nonam rounds out the spells with a stoneskin on Gareth and another on Addinein. Then he casts alter self and sprouts himself a couple of angel wings. "That's me and Gareth. I can cast fly on Addinein and Jus. What about you Tericus? Can you cast that spell that lets you walk in the air?"
Tericus (DMJK) Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:07:27 AM
"I can cast it." The priest casts airwalk on himself.
[just to keep us from bogging down here, I'm going to post for Tericus. Sam, you can yell at me later if you want. -jk]
DMJK Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:13:28 AM
The dwarves start to boo as the companions magic up.
Nonam sprouts his wings and casts fly on Addinein and Jus. Gareth uses his boots, and Tericus calls on Tersallia. Then the group flies up to the 1st step.
10 vicious looking goblins are waiting. At first they seem a bit confused about the location, but then they call out for blood in their vile language.
Gareth d20+8=26 d20+8=24 d20+8=24 d20+8=23 d20+8=17 d20+8=27 d20+8=11 d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=9 d20+8=23 d10+32=34 d10+32=38 d10+32=40 d10+32=37 d10+32=41 d10+32=39 d10+32=42 d10+32=37 d10+32=37 d10+32=39 d10+32=41 d20+8=15 d10+32=35 Thursday April 18th, 2002 12:28:21 PM
Seeing no need for the casters to waste their magic on such creatures, the warrior begins to charge the goblins but he stops short about 15' and sets himself. Banging his sword on his shield he taunts them. He engages the goblins as they move into his space (attacks of opportunity, 7 Max) using all his combat savvy to do maximum damage and prevent himself from being hit. Focusing on the most injured opponent, he uses his 1 normal attack this round. He also cleaves any remaining combatant if any of them fall. (Expertise +5 = AC 35, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Cleave, 168 HPs) (Hit AC {26,[24],24,23,17,27,[11],22,28,[9]},23 for {24+[38]+40+37+41+39+[42]+37+37+[39]}+41 DMG, Cleave: AC 15 for 35 DMG, Note []=Crit, {}=AoO)
Tericus(cats grace-4, endurance-5, air walk) Thursday April 18th, 2002 7:15:56 PM
(no problem JK. had a bit of an emergency to take care of this morning) seeing that Gareth probably has the goblins well in hand, Tericus casts prot. from elements(fire-131pts absorbed) on himself. then he says "If someone else needs to fly, I can cast air walk again."
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=25 d20+10=22 Friday April 19th, 2002 6:53:27 AM
Addinein moves up to support Gareth and aids with whatever attacks that he can. (AC 25 and 22 no crits).
Nonam Friday April 19th, 2002 9:41:02 AM
Nonam casts a greater magic weapon on his crossbow bolts and lets Gareth and Addinein take care of the goblins.
The goblin charge (DMJK) d20+3=13 d20+3=7 d20+3=21 d20+3=22 d20+3=8 d20+3=4 d20+3=12 d20+3=12 d20+3=23 d20+3=11 d8=5 Friday April 19th, 2002 9:48:22 AM
The goblin's rush to close with Gareth and Addinein. The dark elf drops his two, and in a flurry of sword strokes, Gareth finishes off the other eight.
Before dying, the goblins make their pitiful attack. One sword nearly slips in on Addinein, but the extra agility from the Cat's Grace spell helps him dodge out of the way.
The dwarves go absolutely berserk and cheer wildly. Anybody that likes to kill goblins can't be all bad.
Minotaurs on the next level (DMJK) d6=3 d6=6 d6=4 d6=3 d6=3 d6=4 d6=5 d20+6=21 d20+6=10 d20+6=15 d20+6=22 d20+6=10 d20+6=21 Friday April 19th, 2002 9:55:45 AM
A quick flight up to the next level and the group finds 5 minotaurs waiting. They seem a bit more prepared than the goblins, when the group flies up over the edge, they fire crossbow bolts. They aim for the casters first. Three bolts shoot at Nonam, 2 at Jus, and 1 at Tericus. All the bolts fly wide and miss.
Four of the minotaurs throw down their crossbows and pull out wicked looking great axes. The fifth crouches behind his companions and starts reloading his crossbow. Instead of charging, they form up ranks and wait for the attack.
The dwarves boo when the group flies again and hiss when the cowardly minotaurs shoot their stupid crossbows.
JK Friday April 19th, 2002 10:14:53 AM
[xp time, 2600 each for the Battle of Edenmoor. 200 to Cantos for watching over Kennither, 150 to Gareth for the defense plan, 100 to Tericus for getting rid of Morlas. -300xp to Nonam for casting limited wish. Hero points: 2 to everyone for being there. That'll cover most of the things you did individually. If you think someone deserves more than 2, make a case for it.]
Tericus(cats grace-5, endurance-4, air walk, Pff131) d20+9=24 5d8(6+1+2+8+8)=25 Friday April 19th, 2002 1:14:30 PM
quickly casting a spell, Tericus sends a beam of energy into the Minotaur reloading his crossbow(cast searing light, hit ac 24 for 25 pts of damage)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) Friday April 19th, 2002 1:36:18 PM
Seeing the manner of the attacks, the warrior continues to fly but appears like he is landing on the stair. He activates his ring of invisibility and immediately flies up and over the creatures so he silently floats behind them with his head about 2 or 3 feet above theirs. He then prepares to attack. (Figured he didn't get to swing this round. Note: if there is not enough room for him to land, then he will simply go dark and charge).
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d20+14=25 d20+14=34 d20+14=27 d10+1=5 d6+1=2 d6+1=3 Friday April 19th, 2002 6:14:13 PM
Jus unsheathes his sword quickly and smoothly, in such a natural action that it doesn't interfere with his movement [Quick Draw]. Heading towards the minotaurs, he places the next step against his side to protect one of his flanks. Jus' movement prevents him from getting a full attack, but he manages to place what he can with skilled precision. (ac:25/34(possible crit)27)
Chuckling, Jus realizes that his attack skill isn't worth much against these creatures, as his swords do little damage to the well-muscled minotaurs. (dam:5/2/3)
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+16=27 d4+1=2 d20+11=22 d20+6=7 d6+6=10 d6=4 Monday April 22nd, 2002 5:39:11 AM
If possible, Addinein returns fire with a shot from his hand crossbow at the Minotaur with a crossbow still up for two points. Not knowing what Gareth is doing, Addinein lets the Minotaurs come to him (up to 7 AOO's) and tries to defensively wait patiently. (AC is 27, Dodge available against 1st Minotaur attack for AC of 28). If Minotaurs do not move into range, then Addinein will move into place to attack the Minotaurs (w/mobility AC is 31 in this case).
In either case, it is the rapier of dancing that Addinein will use first. (AC=22, 7 (fumble)) 14 points dam for AC 22). As Addinein tries to deliver his blows, he missteps and catches himself before he trips.
Nonam (GWM, alter self) d20+17=26 d8=8 Monday April 22nd, 2002 8:58:44 AM
Nonam lands on the next stair and brings his crossbow to bear on the minotaurs. When he sees Addinein slip, he fires on the one that is closest to the drow.
Nonam grins as he relies he fired a poisoned black lotus bolt. [ac26, 8pts dmg, fortDC20 or 3d6 con]
DMJK d100=20 d20+9=29 d20+9=14 2d8(2+7)+4=13 d20+9=18 d20+4=13 d20+9=25 d20+4=8 d20+6=26 Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:34:18 AM
Tericus shoots his beam of light at the crossbow minotaur, it drops the weapon and clasps it's hands to its eyes. It's hardly down and out though. (crossbow=min 1)
Gareth gets into position, and he hears the dwarves boo his choice to turn invisible. One of the minotaurs must have felt a change in the wind or something because it turns and chops with its axe. The thing must just be lucky because it manages to hit Gareth (13 dmg). [25% chance to detect rolled 20, rolled 20 to hit (14=missed crit), 13 dmg, don't think displacement works if you're invisible since it's a visual effect]. (on Gareth=minotaur 2)
Jus advances on the minotaurs with his sword, and the nimble fighter engages the hairy brute on the right end. He scores several minor hits on the creature. (on Jus=mino 3) The minotaur attempts to return the favor with its nasty axe, but Jus easily dodges the clumsy blows. Jus can hear one of the dwarves shout out, "Yas need a might bigger weapon, elf!"
Seeing that Tericus caused the minotaur to drop his crossbow, Addinein moves in to the left with his dancing blade. Moving gracefully, he stabs visciously into the minotaur's chest, but then he stumbles... Catching the drow's mistake, the minotaur tries to smash him with its axe. But Addinein follows through the stumble and dances past the blow. (mino 4)
Unable to get a clear shot on the minotaur fighting Addinein, Nonam hits the remaining minotaur with a well aimed bolt. The tough beast easily shrugs off the powerful poison.
-------- tallies: mino 1, center= 25 pts dmg mino 2, right center= 0 dmg mino 3, far right= 10 dmg mino 4, far left= 14 dmg mino 5, left center= 12 dmg (Nonam didn't add GMW to dmg), poison check again in 1 minute if the fight lasts 10 rounds for some reason
DMJK Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:35:36 AM
[Sam is without internet access through Friday. He sent me a new sheet if anyone wants to play Tericus.]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+8=27 d20+8=11 d20+8=15 d20+8=26 d20+8=24 d10+32=40 d10+32=35 d10+27=28 d10+22=26 d10+32=41 d20+8=12 d20+32=33 Monday April 22nd, 2002 2:11:42 PM
The warrior endures the strike, suprised that he was detected. Figuring the thing smelled him, he decides he'll need to bathe soon. He maintains his defensive posture but he cuts into the creature using his superior position and invisibility for better attack results. He cuts into the thing fiercely. He cleaves another if the first falls. (Hit AC 31,[15],19,30,[28] for 40+[35]+28+26+[41] DMG Cleave: AC 16 for 33 DMG) (Expertise +5 = AC 35, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Cleave, 155 HPs) NOTE: Added +2 for being above the monotaur and +2 for invis. - not included in initial rolls, sorry)
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows) d20+17=33 d20+12=28 d20+14=27 d10+4=9 d10+4=5 d6+1=6 Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:22:54 PM
Jus takes a moment to thumb his nose in the general direction of the dwarf's comments.
He then switches to his full attack and chops at the minotaur that's on him. Three more solid blows make connection(ac:33/28/27). This time Jus forces the blades to dig deeper into the creature's flesh (dam:9/5/6).
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+16=22 d20+11=13 d6+2=7 d6+2=8 d20+21=26 d6+6=9 d20+12=14 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 6:52:39 AM
Releasing the dancing blade, it continues to bear down on the Minataur. (AC 22 and 13) (7 dam on the first, 8 dam if the 2nd hits).
Hoping that the Minataurs are staying in their tight formation, Addinein goes into a whirlwind attack with his other rapier. (if not then two more attacks on same minataour if still up, another one, if not).
(occasionally, I hate scroll wheels. + for rapier is 17, not 21) AC 22 for 9 pts to all that he can get.
(AC 14 for 2nd attack if used)
Tericus (dmjk) d20+9=14 d20+5=16 d4=2 d4=2 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:13:00 AM
Deciding that the fighters are getting things under control and wanting to save some spells for the top, Tericus pulls out a sling and whips a pair of bullets at the minotaur Nonam shot.
[AC14,AC16,dmg2&2]
Nonam d20+17=21 d8+4=6 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:14:41 AM
Nonam grins at Tericus, "We'll get us one too!" Then he loads up another crossbow bolt and fires at the same minotaur. If all the taurs go down, Nonam moves in to help himself to some of their crossbow bolts.
[AC20, 6dmg]
No more minotaur (DMJK) Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:22:56 AM
Gareth quickly puts down the minotaur that made the mistake of attacking him. Then he cuts down the one in the center that is still clutching its eyes.
Addinein dances his rapier into his minotaur, and it scores one hit. The drow follows with a graceful attack that slips past his own dancing rapier and puts the fearsome beast down. He follows through with the whirlwind attack and strikes the other 2 that are standing.
With the help from Addinein's whirlwind strike, Jus is able to put down his minotaur.
Nonam and Tericus fell the last one without ever getting too close.
An empty step? (DMJK) d6=4 d6=2 d6=1 d20+5=24 d4=4 d6=5 d20+5=16 d4=4 d6=4 d20+5=23 d4=1 d6=2 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:39:55 AM
The companions pause a bit as the dwarves all cheer. Taking out minotaurs with swords and bows. That's what it's about. Then after making quick preparations, the group makes its way to the third step. At first it appears empty. Then the near invisible forms rise up from the ground and strike. They seem like little more than living shadows except for their red glowing eyes and their icy touch. Wraiths.
There are three of them, and they move to strike Jus, Addinein, and Gareth. Rising from the floor, they catch the heroes flatfooted, and the spirits care little about armor and only attempt to touch their victim.
Jus is the first to feel the icy claws grasping at his ankles. (touch AC24, 4pts dmg, fort save dc14 or 5 pts permanent con loss) Then Addinein feels one of the vile creature grasping his knee. (touch AC16, 4dmg, dc14 or 4con) The last pulls itself from the ground and up Gareth's legs. (touch AC23, 1dmg, dc14 or 2 con)
The dwarves all suck in a deep breath as they realize what the group faces on this step. They're more accustomed to seeing this sort of enemy near the top of the stair. More than a few gaze up wondering what will be in store at the top.
Tericius (JK) d20+2=7 2d6(5+2)+13=20 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:50:08 AM
Seeing the undead foes, Tericus wastes no time in pulling out his holy symbol and attempting to turn the wraiths.
[creatures with 10HD affected, up to 20hd turned]
Nonam d20+17=20 d8+4=9 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 10:53:53 AM
Ready with the crossbow and able to easily see the incorporeal creatures with his detect invisible vision, Nonam fires at the wraith on Jus before it is fully out of the ground.
[AC 20, dmg9]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+11=20 d20+11=21 d20+11=18 d20+11=23 d10+29=33 d10+24=30 d10+19=28 d20+13=29 d10+29=34 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 1:20:26 PM
The warrior resists the icy touch of his adversary (DC 20). He brings his weapon straight down on the one touching him using his superior position for greater effect(+2 since it's below him). He still uses his abilities to avoid the strikes of the creature but opts to move toward a more standard attack to make sure he hits him. (Expertise +5, power attack 10/5/0), Hit AC (23,20,25 for 33+30+28=91 DMG - Cleave attack AC 29 for 34 DMG)
Addinein (BS +4) (CG +3) (End +2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+7=16 d20+17=25 d20+12=14 d6+5=11 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 6:45:28 AM
Feeling the icy touch of the Wraith and resisting his secondary attack, Addinein does his best to put a little distance between him and the wraith, and then returns the attack in kind. (using keen +2 rapier).
AC 25 and 14. 11 pts of dam for 1st hit if it hits.
No more wraiths (DMJK) d100=64 d100=91 d100=33 d100=90 d100=100 d100=41 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:35:21 AM
Nonam's bolt passes through the wraith and ricochets off the floor. It seemed to have had some effect though because the wraith immediately lets go of Jus.
Gareth's sword whips right through the middle of his wraith. His experienced hand can tell that it pulled on something a little more than air. At least it does the first time. The second attack makes him doubt his effectiveness. It felt like he connected with nothing. The third blow removes all doubt because the wraith wails and disappears.
Addinein's first blow cuts through the wraith, and he feels the blade drag on the apparition. The second strike misses all together.
Gareth cleaves to the wraith on Jus, but the sword chops empty air once again.
Then Tericus invokes the power of Teressalia. The two wounded wraiths scream and are destroyed with a bright flash of light.
The third stair appears to be clear, and the dwarves cheer.
[50% chance to miss incorporeal creature with any corporeal attack. N=64; G=91,33(miss),90; A=100; G cleave=41(Miss)]
Nonam (alter self, GMW, + perm detect magic, see invis, & prot from arrows) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:41:03 AM
Nonam goes to pick up the bolt he shot while giving the stair the going over with his detect magic vision to make sure there are no more wraiths.
While looking he says, "Not too bad so far. Those last two steps have given me an idea though. Perhaps I should scout out each step first. I can see if there are invisible creatures on it, and I've developed an immunity to arrows. I can shout out what's on the step. That way no one will get caught with their pants down, so to speak."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:55:16 AM
"You can communicate through the ring what you find. I'll be right behind you..." The warrior moves up to the edge of the next stair and waits.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+11=13 d20+11=30 d100=58 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 2:04:43 PM
Jus disagrees with Nonam. "They may not appear until you land, which could be bad if you had multiple creatures draining you." Still, Jus shrugs, realizing that it would be nice to know what they are about to face.
Using this pause to his advantage, Jus casts Shield on himself, giving him +7 AC Deflection to his front (overcame 10% armor restriction).
d20s are saves from last turn, hero point used.
Tericus (JK) Wednesday April 24th, 2002 4:09:10 PM
"Jus is right. No offense Nonam, but if you land first and something appears, you might not fare so well. You can give a quick aerial check, but then let one of the tough guys land first."
The Voices of Gods [CDM Jerry] Thursday April 25th, 2002 12:07:32 AM
Throughout The Wold, voices are heard. The Voices of Gods.
"So mother, you have truly fallen and become that which your former priests spoke against for so long: A slave to Passion!"
"No daughter, I have evolved. I have found the truth. Love hurts. Passion brings joy. I am now dedicated to forcing the Races of The Wold to realize this truth. Only the truth will let the races evolve. Only the truth will bring balance to The Wold. Today I am here to teach you this truth. You have always been my favorite daughter. You always went with your passions and used your god given abilities to force those who loved deeply to see the joy that only passion can bring.
"Now however, daughter, you have regressed and embraced the pain of deep love. You have failed. Your teachings of deep love must and will end. I have brought a strong handsome god with me. Ga'al, meet Flower, my daughter. Is she not beautiful?"
"Yes. Very."
"I have not failed. I have seen the truth. Passion brought me nothing but pain and deep love has saved me. I have learned the love of family, friends, and even learned to love you, whom I once despised. Most of all, I have learned to love the people of The Wold, from whom I once took so much."
"Flower you have learned nothing. I will teach you to evolve. You will learn passion...with Ga'al."
"Caeroldra, you are so misled. I am truly sad. I will have nothing to do with a Cult God. I leave you. However, the next time we meet, even though I love you deeply, we meet as enemies. Goodbye mother....for all time"
"Fine. Die in ignorance."
"AAIIIIEEEEEE!"
"Goodbye....daughter."
::POP::
"I AM ALEMI! Carol, what have you done?"
"You do not control me any longer, Alemi!"
"I never controlled you. I simply loved you. Now it is my duty to judge you. I find you guilty of murder. The sentence is Oblivion!"
"NOOOO AAUUUUUUUGH!"
::The sky turns pink and then red as the Goddess of Love and the Goddess of Passion are slain.::
"Ga'al. Look upon me and recognize me.
"I AM ALEMI, SUPREME OF THE GODS OF WOLD! HEAR MY WORDS AND TREMBLE!
"For crimes against the Noble Races, I hereby judge the self-named Cult Gods GUILTY and declare HOLY WAR upon them!
"Now go, Ga'al and speak my words to your cowardly brethren. The next time we meet IT WILL BE WAR!!
"May The Wold mourn the passing of the GODDESS OF LOVE.
"I go to mourn the passing of an old friend."
::...And it begins to rain.::
- - - - - - - - - -
[Clerics of Caeroldra or Flower need to make a Will save DC 14 plus your Cleric Class Level. If you succeed, you are still beset with feelings of obsessive love or the urge to give in to your desires, but are able to control them to an extent. If you fail, your DM will tell you the results and the options available to you.]
[All non-Clerics must make a Will save DC 12 plus half your Character Levels. If you succeed, you are still beset with feelings of obsessive love or the urge to give in to your desires, but are able to control them to an extent. If you fail, your DM will tell you the results and the options available to you.]
Addinein d20+12=17 Thursday April 25th, 2002 6:47:02 AM
Feeling the compulsion wash over him Addinein stops short for a second and blinks.
Looking at the others in the group Addinein gauges their reactions to see if they might have experienced the same thing.
Nonam d20+8=9 d20+8=28 Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:49:57 AM
Nonam, looks a bit confused at hearing the voices, and he mumbles something about, "When did Flower become a goddess?"
Then he starts thinking about the times he visited the Temple of Caeroldra thinking that if he was going to have a patron deity that he would choose her.
Before getting too deeply lost in thought, the scene of the stair and the dead minotaurs lying on the step beneath snaps him back to reality.
[used a hero point]
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+5=20 Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:50:38 AM
The warrior grits his teeth as it is clear that yet another confrontation among the gods is taking place. He gasps as he feels the sheer release of power as the mother and daughter fall. He shudders as feelings he struggles with daily (he is 23 you know) become much more intense - but manages to hold them in check for now. He wonders about Qualde and how she's going to deal with this.
After a moment, he looks about to the others to make sure they are OK. If so, the warrior nods and continues the fight.
DMJK Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:51:20 AM
Below some of the dwarves looked panicked. Others are weeping, but most grunt approval when Alemi banishes Caeroldra.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+13=19 Thursday April 25th, 2002 2:43:41 PM
Jus can't believe another god, two gods, have fallen again. Flower and Caeroldra.
Jus' head jerks up and looks toward Cantos as he realizes... he whispers her name in sorrow, "Qualde".
made save
Tericus d20+12=30 Friday April 26th, 2002 8:57:11 AM
Tericus looks up toward the ceiling in fear for his own first love, Teresallia. He begins singing a song of love and devotion to his goddess.
Awash in a sea of passion - DMJK Friday April 26th, 2002 9:07:52 AM
A few of the dwarves down below grab a member of the opposite sex and sneak out of the hall.
Addinein feels overwhelmed by passion and desire. The rest of the group is able to function normally, but you all feel an overwhelming sense of brotherhood and camaraderie. Fighting on the Stair seems like a pointless expenditure of energy, but you know it must be done.
It's time to move up to the fourth step. Nonam flies up first and stops stunned at the lip. The rest of the group, rushing in to discover the source of Nonam's apprehension see a revolting sight. Two driders. Two driders making love. The nasty spiderlike things are completely oblivious to your presence. No wonder with the noises they're making.
A dwarf down below retches loudly.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+17=25 d10+27=32 Friday April 26th, 2002 10:19:55 AM
The warrior is appalled and frowns with disdain at the thought of such creatures reproducing. But he is not about to let an advantage such as this go by untaken. He moves into position behind the closest one - again shielding the casters from any attacks that might come from the beasts and hopefully preventing the other vile creature from realizing they are under attack. He cuts into the creature using the full force of his attacks, not worring about finesse, just brute force (+2 surprise, +2 size, +2 back[?], +13 Power Attack, no expertise sice melee hasn't begun. Hit AC 25 for 32 DMG). He then begins his defensive stance, hoping to get his attacks first before the creatures can set and attack.
Nonam (alter self, GMW, + perm detect magic, see invis, & prot from arrows) 10d6(6+5+5+2+6+1+2+5+3+2)=37 Friday April 26th, 2002 11:39:18 AM
Too sickened now to think of love and Caeroldra, Nonam takes his wand of lightning bolts and zaps the drider jumble.
[37 dmg ea, ref dc20]
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+25=30 d8+10=11 d10=8 d6=5 d6=4 Friday April 26th, 2002 9:38:03 PM
Jus looks disgusted at the sight revealed on the next step. Not wanting to get too close due to his revulsion, Jus pulls out his bow (quick draw) and point-blank fires an arrow at one of the drider [ac: 30 dam: 28].
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=30 d20=6 d6+5=7 d20+12=32 d20=7 d6+5=7 Saturday April 27th, 2002 5:14:42 PM
Shock registers on Addinein's face as he recognizes a drider. Jumping on top of the tumbling mass (death from above) Addinein quickly attacks ((AC 30,no crit) 7 points of dam (AC 32 no crit)(sheesh no storyline support) for 7 more points of dam) trying to end their lives as quickly as he can.
Tericus Monday April 29th, 2002 8:25:44 AM
Tericus turns on the step in revulsion. The others look like they have this one under control.
No more driders (DMJK) Monday April 29th, 2002 8:27:46 AM
Addinein's savage leap ends the lives of the pitiful driders. Of course, Gareth, Nonam, and Jus helped out a bit.
Umberhulks (DMJK) Monday April 29th, 2002 8:43:58 AM
Following the pattern, Nonam flies up to the next step and calls out what he sees. He yells down below, "giant bugs."
The umberhulks are spread out across the length of the step and not bunched up by one another. Each is throwing a confusing gaze towards the party with their bulbous bug eyes.
(will dc 15 or confused, To avoid future gaze attacks, you can avert eyes and get 50% chance to avoid needing to save, or blindfold yourself)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, Invisible) d20+5=17 d20+12=23 d10+27=35 Monday April 29th, 2002 9:54:58 AM
The warrior approaches the lumbering creatures (how many?). He approaches the one on the left so the casters can do their thing. He appraoches from as far left as possible so as to avoid more than one attacking him at a time. He fights defensively, not wanting to take any hits from such a large creature. He also decides he doesn't really need to see to fight the loud hulking masses, closes his eyes, and uses his Improved Blind Fighting abilities to avoid the gazes. He cuts into the creature with his only attack and hopefully makes a dent in it. (Hit AC 23 for 35 DMG, Expertise +5, Power Attack +13, Improved Blind Fight - no penalties)
JK Monday April 29th, 2002 3:29:18 PM
oops, there are 3. Spread out far across the step. I'll try a little text map, and we'll see how well it works. It seems to ignore spaces, so I used dashes to space. They don't stand for anything.
------------------------------step up ---U---------U----------U----- ------------------------------ ------------party------------- ------------------------------step down
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 90hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+25=29 d10+10=20 d8=2 Monday April 29th, 2002 5:02:38 PM
Jus lands and uses his bow once again, moving to the right a few steps before he fires at the right bug. He is a little hasty in his aim, though (ac: 29), but hopefully it is enough to hit the creature. (dam: 22)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+6=14 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 5:32:43 AM
Still distracted by the event with the Driders, Addinein does not avert his eyes in time before seeing the Umberhulks. Confused, he is temporarily stunned.
Nonam d20+8=26 d20+8=15 d20+8=20 10d6(1+5+4+6+6+1+3+4+2+5)=37 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 9:46:43 AM
As the scout Nonam looked at all three umberhulks, but their gazes didn't have enough power to effect him.
Lightning wand still in hand, Nonam decides to use it on the giant bug in the center.
(37dmg, same as last time, ref dc20)
Tericus (JK) d20+10=30 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 9:49:10 AM
Perfectly in control, Tericus sees that Addinein has fallen under the umberhulk's spell. Seeing Gareth and Jus involved with the monsters on the sides, the priest hefts his mace, sets it to singing, and braces himself to take any attacks of opportunity if the middle creature charges the main group.
The incredible umberhulks (DMJK) d20+11=25 d20+11=26 d20+11=14 d20+9=14 2d4(1+4)+6=11 2d4(2+4)+6=12 d20+11=31 d20+11=18 2d4(1+3)+6=10 d20+11=20 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 10:00:06 AM
Gareth easily hacks into the umberhulk he engages, but the single blow is not near enough to fell the creature.
The thing was ready for an attack and takes an attack of opportunity with a heavy clawed fist (AC25). Then it follows with a full attack, two claws and a snapping bite with its big mandibles. It also focuses its gaze on Gareth, but the wily warrior has his eyes shut tight. [don't think AC25 or 26 hits Gareth using expertise. if it does, dmg is 11&12]
Jus pins the right umberhulk with a single arrow. Enraged the beast charges straight at the elf. (AC31, a roll of 20) The powerful, chitinous hand smacks into Jus and nearly topples him over backward. (dmg 10 (from stoneskin), reflex dc10 to stay on your feet). To add insult to injury, the creature focuses its gaze on Jus.
Nonam blasts the center umberhulk, and it follows its companion's strategy. It charges at Nonam, but the nimble mage manages to slide out of the way (AC20). Tericus was ready for the beast and gets his attack of opportunity along with his regular action.
The dwarves down below cheer Gareth on as he moves in to fight hand to hand, dwarven style. They wince in unison when Jus gets smacked.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+7=13 d20+7=9 d20+10=29 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 3:59:26 PM
Jus makes sure his Shield (+7 AC) is protecting him from the Umberhulk's attacks. He gets hit hard, but manages to keep his feet (made reflex save with last roll).
Jus starts to draw his swords, but... too late! The Umberhulk's gaze hits Jus full force, dazing him this round (failed save and hero-point save).
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+10=19 d20+10=30 d20+10=30 d20+10=26 d20+10=22 d20+10=22 d10+27=30 d10+22=32 d10+17=18 d10+27=34 d10+27=28 d10+27=30 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 4:08:26 PM
Seeing his attack is pretty effective and the lumbering oaf's inability to hit him the warrior cuts into the creature again with his startling attack sequence. Once he finishes off his foe he moves to the next one and begins anew with whatever attacks remain. (Hit AC 19,30,[26],30,[22],{22} for 30+32+[34]+18+[28]+{30} DMG. Note: added {} cleave attack if applicable. Expertise +5, Power Attack +13/+8/+3, Improved Blind Fight - no penalties, still all stoneskins).
JK Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:24:26 AM
Should have been rolling a d10 for the confused. 1 you wander away for 1 minute. 2-6 do nothing for 1 round. 7-9 attack nearest creature for 1 round. 10 act normal for 1 round. The spell lasts 8 rounds, and the d10 is rolled each round unless a 1 comes up, then you wander for the duration.
Tericus (JK) d20+11=25 d20+11=29 d20+6=11 d8+3=11 d8+3=11 d20+10=27 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:28:01 AM
Tericus sings with his mace, and bashes the umberhulk that dashed at Nonam. The beautiful song stands in sharp contrast to the beating Tericus gives the bug thing.
(AC25,29,11 Dmg 11,11) (save 27)
Nonam (gmw, alter self, see invis, others) d20+8=10 d20+8=22 d100=85 5d4(3+2+1+1+4)+5=16 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:32:09 AM
Nonam shakes off the confusing glare from the umberhulk that rushes him (hero pt). Then he zaps the thing with a magic missile. (16)
The Spectacular Storm Dragons (DMJK) d20+8=15 d10=8 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:49:04 AM
Gareth fells his umberhulk in a full attack, but he's too far away to cleave to the next monster. He sees that Tericus and Nonam have theirs under control, but the one on the bewildered Jus poses the greatest threat. It's also the one farthest away from Gareth.
Tericus smashes the center umberhulk with his enchanted singing mace and ooze splatters out of the crushed exoskeleton. Then Nonam's missiles tear a chunk from its armored hide. The wicked giant-thing is brutally wounded, but it still fights on.
Jus' belt of spell resistance throws off the confusion, and the elf is free of the enchantment.
Addinein feels compelled to attack the creature nearest him. (rolled d10 for you=8. roll a d6 to see who is closest: 1,2=Nonam; 3,4=Tericus; 5-6=umberhulk)
The not-so incredible umberhulks (DMJK) d20+11=23 d20+11=17 d20+9=27 d20+11=20 d20+11=14 d20+8=25 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:57:50 AM
Gareth kills his umberhulk before it has a chance to swing again. He is behind the other two, so their gazes aren't focused on him.
The umberhulk on Nonam tries to bash the puny mage once more. The wizard dodges the first blow and turns the punch aside with his mithril shield. The mandibles seem like they will certainly snap the wizard's head off, but some unseen magical force holds back the force of the blow.
Due to the spell resistance, Jus is able to fully defend himself. He dances through the blows turning them with shield and bow.
Tericus d20+11=29 d20+6=9 d8+4=7 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 9:39:45 AM
(hi, im back. thanks for playing my cha. JK) continuing to sing, Tericus lands another blow on the monster(ac 29 for 7 pts)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+12=28 d10+27=34 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 10:38:42 AM
The warrior moves quickly to close with the creature on Jus, passing the one fighting Tericus and Nonam (as it seems they are doing fine). He lashes out from his flanking position on the creature calling to it "Hey, maybe you'd better fight me instead?". He cuts into the thing and makes sure it understands that it better turn around. (hit AC 28 for 34 DMG, +2 TH large creature, +2 flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +13, still all stoneskins).
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+18=35 d20+13=18 d20+15=27 d10+3=4 d10+3=13 d6+3=4 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 2:00:46 PM
Jus comes to and whips out both his swords. He unleashes a full attack on the Umberhulk, wailing unmercilessly on the creature. (ac: 35/18/27; dam: 4/13/4)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d8=6 d20+15=26 d6+5=11 d20+10=24 d20=19 2d6(5+5)+10=20 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 2:55:05 PM
Addinein quickly decides that the Unberhulk is the closest thing that he can go after. AC 26 for 11 and AC 24 (crit) for 20 points of damage.
Nonam Wednesday May 1st, 2002 3:48:12 PM
A little too close to the melee for comfort, Nonam quickly comes to the decision that the swordguys are all doing their thing just fine without him getting in the way. So he flaps flaps his wings to try to get up and out of harm's way.
no more umberhulks (dmjk) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 9:41:32 AM
The party cuts down the last of the bug things to the screams of cheering dwarves. The nastiness with the driders seems to be forgotten. With the umberhulks gone, Addinein soon returns to his normal, thinking self.
Up to the next step, and...
oops (dmjk) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 9:56:02 AM
Before Nonam even peaks his head over the top of the next step, he's caught by a mind flayer's mind blast. (will dc17, or stunned 3d4 rounds)
There are 4 rubbery illithids lining the 6th step and looking down. They don't intend to share the fate of the umberhulks, and they're making it perfectly clear. A voice speaks in each of your minds, "Where are we? Do you capture and kill us for sport? This will not be so."
Gareth feels something attempting to control him as two more of the illithids attempt to charm him (will dc17, twice).
The fourth illithid seems to shift sideways and disappears.
The watching dwarves look a little nervous as they see the newest foes.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Thursday May 2nd, 2002 4:43:39 PM
Jus casts Glitterdust on the step above, with hopes to catch most the beasties in the effects before the party arrives.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d20+5=23 d20+5=25 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 5:32:38 PM
The warrior grits his teeth as the wave of mind power washes over him. He goes invisible and rises to the step. He hovers above the illithids looking for the invisible one. If he is able to find it he closes, if not he closes with the one trying to blast Nonam and prepares to attack.
Tericus 11d6(3+3+6+2+2+4+4+5+1+2+3)=35 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 6:39:01 PM
trying to catch as many of the flayers as he can, Tericus casts Flame strike on the monsters, burning them with holy flames(10 ft radius, 35 pts of damage, save of 19)
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+15=22 d6+5=7 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 11:29:26 PM
Not wanting to give the illthids time to think after all the attacks, Addinein tries to move in for a whirl wind attack, doing his best to be an annoyance.
AC 22 for 7 points.
Nonam d20+8=9 3d4(4+1+1)=6 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:10:21 AM
The mind blast stops Nonam cold, and he freezes in place. Without flapping the wings to keep himself aloft, he crashes back into the step below.
(out for 6 rounds)
the heroes (DMJK) d20+9=27 d20+9=19 d20+9=11 d20+9=17 d20+11=26 d20+11=22 d20+11=14 d20+4=6 d6=2 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:41:31 AM
Jus lights up the first mind flayer, but the other three resist his spell.
Gareth reaches the top and tries to find the one that disappeared, but he doesn't see it. So he moves over to one that he thinks zapped Nonam. There was no physical manifestation of the mind attack, but the one in the center looks a little more menacing.
Tericus' flame strike breaks into the illithid ranks. The flames totally engulf the same creature lit by Jus' spell, but the other 2 stand unharmed in the midst of the fire. Gareth is close enough to the spell that he needs to see if he's caught in it. (even-odd roll, even=in, odd=safe) (if you're caught, then roll reflex for 1/2 DC19)
Addinein tries to close with the 3 monsters for a whirlwind attack, but they all move backwards and farther apart to stay out of his way.
Nonam hits the ground in a heap (2 dmg).
Mindflayers (DMJK) d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=14 d20+8=22 d20+8=28 d20+8=12 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:58:45 AM
The mindflayer that disappeared steps out on the floor of the 5th step. He crouches by the fallen Nonam and lashes out with his tentacles. All four attach to the near helpless wizard's head. (22,28,[14],22,28,[12] - 19 dmg)
Jus and Tericus have a good chance to see what's going on with the wizard since they didn't attempt to move into melee, but Gareth and Addinein have their full attention focused on the floor above. (spot dc12 for J&T, spot dc25 for G&A)
The three mind flayers above continue to drift backwards so that they aren't in view by those on the step below. Jus and Tericus will each have to choose to help Nonam or Addinein and Gareth.
Gareth hears a voice in his mind, "Just because we don't see you doesn't mean we don't know you are there. Even as simple as your mind is, it is still a beacon." The mind flayer on the right looks up in the general direction of Gareth and lets loose another mindblast. (will dc17)
The mindflayer in the center blasts at Addinein (will dc17).
The monster on the left, the one burned by Tericus, crouches down and manages to shoot his mindblast cone so that Gareth and Addinein are both in the area of effect (will dc17). The maneuver has left it in a nearly prone position, and if Addinein resists its mind attack, it will have little chance to defend itself.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin) d2=1 d20+15=29 d20+10=17 d20+5=20 d10+24=31 d10+19=26 d10+14=15 d20+15=28 d10+24=33 Friday May 3rd, 2002 9:14:13 AM
The warrior avoids the flame strike and then moves in on the middle flayer, lowering down from behind - but staying off the ground a couple of feet to gain the "high ground" advantage. Seeing Nonam drop he knows he'd better be quick about it. He cuts mercilessly into the creature, knowing the wold a better place without it. He cleaves one of the others if his quarry goes down. (Hits AC 29, 17, and 20 for 31+26+15=72 DMG, Hit AC{28} for {33} DMG. +2 TH above creature, +2 TH flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0, still all stoneskins)
Gareth, cont. d20+5=20 Friday May 3rd, 2002 3:34:14 PM
The warrior does not see Nonam (no chance to get a DC 25 spot check) and focuses on his task at hand. Hearing the flayer speak in his mind, he braces for what he knows is coming and somehow keeps his wits through it again (sv DC 20) - but knows deep down he can't do it for long.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) d20+23=41 d20+18=31 d20+23=31 d20+23=28 d8=4 d10+10=18 d8=6 d10+10=18 d8=4 d10+10=17 d8=3 d10+10=19 Friday May 3rd, 2002 4:26:31 PM
Nonam may be a good target for the Mind Flayer, but the Flayer is a great target for Jus. Sheathing his swords and grabbing his bow (Quick Draw Feat), Jus takes aim at the aberration. He takes his time lining up his first shot to ensure he doesn't hit anyone (Precise Shot Feat).
Jus' patience pays off as his shot hits a critical spot on the Flayer (ac: 41(crit: 28); dam: 22(22)). His aim continues to be good as he follows up with two more arrows (ac: 31/31; dam: 24/21).
Jus laughes out loud, taunting the Mind Flayer in an attempt to turn its attention onto Jus. "Some intelligence you are; your mother must have been a slime mold."
Tericus d20+12=24 Friday May 3rd, 2002 6:43:23 PM
seeing the danger that Noonan is in, Tericus turns from the battle up top. calling on the power of his goddess, Tericus screams at the flayer "WITHDRAW!!"(casts command on the mind flayer)
[JK] Saturday May 4th, 2002 12:30:15 PM
[I think that Gareth didn't roll a save for the last mindblast. Will DC17]
Look at the "Gareth, cont" post. Made the save.
Thought that was a try for a spot check. - jk
Edited post to be more clear. Sorry bout that.
DMJK d20+8=15 d20+8=21 d20+8=19 d20+8=28 d20+8=21 d4+1=4 d20+8=22 d20+8=17 d20+8=12 d20+8=28 d20+8=24 d4+1=3 Monday May 6th, 2002 9:04:13 AM
Up above: Addinein hesitates while Gareth beats on the mindflayer in the center. His second blow goes astray, and the other two are not quite sufficient to finish the creature off. The center flayer turns and lashes at Gareth with its tentacles, and one of the rubbery appendages strikes the warrior in the face. The tentacle leeches on. (4pts from stoneskin, don't think you took minotaur dmg off stoneskin).
Thinking Addinein must have succumbed to the mindblast, the monster on the left attacks him with its tentacles. One of them connects and leeches on to him as well (3pts). [2 connect if he missed one of the mindblast rolls from last turn]
The third mindflayer on top attempts to charm Gareth once again as it packpedals far enough that Gareth can't get a full attack in on it when his buddy falls. (will dc17)
Down below: Jus fills the mindflayer on Nonam full of arrows, and it falls down dead atop the hapless mage. The tentacles are still attached to his face. Tericus' spell has no effect on the dead mindflayer.
Addinein d20=17 d20=16 d20+15=34 d20=3 d6+5=11 d20+10=13 d6+5=6 Monday May 6th, 2002 10:56:05 AM
Making both his will saves Addinein bursts into action. As the creature attaches to Addinein, he reacts in revultion as he remembers the stories he's been told of these creatures.
AC 34 (no crit) 11 points damage. AC 13 for 6 points
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin ) d20+5=9 d20+5=21 d20+15=21 d20+10=26 d20+5=9 d10+24=28 d10+19=29 d10+14=17 d20+15=27 d10+24=28 Monday May 6th, 2002 3:44:46 PM
The warrior gasps as he fights against the flayer trying to control his mind. Feeling his wits slipping away from him quickly (failed roll), he controls his fears and once again somehow fights off the charm (Hero Point reroll - 21). He again attacks the creature in front of him not wanting to give the thing a hold. He then attacks the one on Addinein. (Hits AC 21, 26, and 9 for 28+29+17=74 DMG, Hit AC{27} for {28} DMG. +2 TH above creature, +2 TH flank, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0, all stoneskins less 1 - Gareth was not hit by the Minotaurs)
Tericus d8+12=15 Monday May 6th, 2002 7:30:31 PM
seeing that the flayer cant do any more damage to Noonan, Tericus says "Im heading up top. It sounds like its not going too well." then Tericus moves up to the next level. seeing that some of his friends are injured, he casts Healing Circle, healing 15 pts of damage to all his friends
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Tuesday May 7th, 2002 4:11:01 AM
Jus nods to Tericus, but doesn't leave Nonam yet. "Don't forget that one of those things went invisible," Jus reminds Tericus.
Jus attempts to remove the tentacles from Nonam, to ensure they can't do any more damage.
Casting Alter Self on himself, Jus gives himself wings as Nonam had, to allow him to continue upwards when Jus is done with his friend.
[jk] Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:30:05 AM
[The DM turn for April 22 has a minotaur hitting Gareth with an axe for 13pts dmg. It rolled a 20. You were invisible, so the displacement didn't work. Gareth's turn for April 22 said the minotaur must have smelled you to get be able to get the shot in. Plus didn't the mind flayer just take off 4 and not just 1.]
I stand corrected. So now he has how many left?
I think I see what you're doing. You're still thinking of stoneskins like in 2e. Stoneskins work quite a bit differently now. They give you damage protection 10/+5 up to a certain number of points. With one Nonam cast it's 130. So with the minotaur hit, the stone skin absorbed 10 and you took 3 points. With the mind flayer, the stoneskin absorbed all 4. So of 130 points of protection you have 116 points left. And if it ever comes up, the stoneskin won't stop a +5 weapon at all. -jk
DMJK d100=76 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:43:54 AM
The mindflayers conveniently spread out on their first turn so that they are standing some 10 ft apart. This prevents whirlwind attacks, cleaves, and a full attack when moving to engage a new one.
Addinein cuts into the one he's been facing, but it's not enough to dispatch it. Gareth finishes the opponent before him and moves to help Addinein.
Tericus casts his healing circle. His placing is near perfect, and he doesn't heal up either of the remaining mindflayers.
Jus gets the tentacles out of Nonam's face and then sprouts his wings in preparation to fly upward. (rolled his armor check)
Nonam is still out, but doesn't look like he's in a life threatening situation anymore.
DMJK Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:45:59 AM
The mindflayer on Addinein blasts the drow and the approaching Gareth with another mindblast (will dc17).
The other standing mindflayer shifts sideways and disappears much like its companion did earlier.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 8 left) d20+5=16 d20+5=20 d20+15=27 d20+15=18 d20+15=32 d10+24=30 d10+19=22 d10+14=20 d20+15=29 d10+24=27 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 11:17:21 AM
Again fighting the mind energy assaulting his mind the warrior falters a moment before heroically resisting yet again (Hero Point Reroll - 20). As he flies about 2 feet off the ground still to gain the height advantage, he cuts into the last foe he sees, trying to take it out quickly. (Hits AC 25, 16, 30, [27] for 30+22+20+[27]=99 DMG, +2 TH above creature, Expertise +5, Power Attack +10/+5/+0 - DOH! I've been messing up my attack rolls. Oh well. I also subtracted 2 for flank.)
DMJK Tuesday May 7th, 2002 11:52:43 AM
Gareth finishes the 2nd mindflayer leaving the rest of the group free to deal with the other one.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+6=20 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 2:00:25 AM
Gritting his teeth as the mindflayer contiues his attack, Addinein blocks the mindflayer's attack. (will save 20).
As Gareth mows down the mindflayer in front of him, Addinein quickly takes stock of the party's situation. Someone in the group should have see invisible already, so he's just going to wait until there's something to do, or the missing mindflayer has been found.
Tericus Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:06:09 AM
not seeing any of the other flayers around, Tericus casts true seeing on himself and scans the area for their foes. "Ill find them in a minuet." he says to the others
running away? - DMJK Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:12:34 AM
Tericus' true seeing spell does not reveal the mindflayer. He scans for a few moments and turns up nothing. The thing seems to be gone.
After a couple more minutes Nonam revives.
The 4th mindflayer still has not reappeared by the time the wizard is back on his feet. Evidently it did something besides turn invisible.
Nonam Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:15:53 AM
Nonam rolls away from the mindflayer in disgust and nods his thanks to Jus when he sees the arrows sticking out of the thing. When he realizes he isn't hurt too badly he thanks Tericus too. Then the wizard quickly flaps up to the mindflayer step to see what's going on. Seeing it empty, he suggests, "On to the next step then? I seem to be alright."
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 130 pts left) Wednesday May 8th, 2002 9:45:19 AM
The warrior frowns at the prospect of the missing flayer and shakes his head violently to clear it from the mind attacks. "I've got to figure out some way to protec against that. I can't fight them off very well... I bet the thing has gone up a step to ally itelf with whatever comes next. Let's go.". He grins ear to ear and quips evilly, "So Nonam, want to go first again? :)".
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; Shield) Thursday May 9th, 2002 1:13:50 AM
"I have wings now, I'll take a turn," Jus says.
He looks around to ensure everyone is ready. Mumbling something about idiotic elves needing to visit the Catacombs for invisibility, he beats his wings and begins to rise.
This time, however, he prepares the spell feeblemind before reaching the next step; ready to cast it on whatever foe looks the most intimidating -- or anyone trying to cast a spell on Jus when he arrives.
Addinein Thursday May 9th, 2002 3:47:37 AM
Addinein cleans off the remains of the mindflayers. As he waits for the others in the group to recover he comments, "These are disgusting creatures that some of the families ally themselves with."
Hook Horrors Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:42:08 AM
Jus flies up and sees that giant ugly crablike monsters are all over the 7th step. There are 8 of them. He doesn't know what the things are, but Addinein does: hook horrors.
The hook horrors are spread out around the step in a random fashion. Here, two are together. There, one is standing alone without another near him.
They don't seem to see the party fly up for the look, but they angle their heads even at the quiet sound of Jus and Nonam's wings.
The one front and center beats its crablike claws together and instantly all of the creatures are alert.
The dwarves, a bit unnerved by the mindflayers, start to come around again. One of them screams out, "Bash 'em. None of that sissy magic!"
crude map: up [h------h--------------] [-h-------------h-h----] [-------h-h------h-----] [---h------h---h----h--] down
Nonam 10d6(4+6+2+1+2+4+3+1+6+6)=35 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:46:16 AM
Nonam decides that he's held back on spells long enough. Plus he feels the need to prove his worth to that loud-mouthed dwarf. He casts a fireball in the middle of the cluster on the right. "Who wants crab for dinner?"
(35dmg, ref22 1/2)
Tericus d20+9=25 5d8(2+6+1+6+7)=22 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:57:56 AM
targeting the nearest one, Tericus casts searing light on the monster, hitting ac 25 for 22 pts of damage. then he pulls out his mace and prepares to attack
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 130 pts left) d20+23=26 d10+14=19 Friday May 10th, 2002 8:49:42 AM
The warrior decides to go left as Nonam goes right with his magic assault. He attacks the one on the front left with his halmark ferocity making sure to use his flight to gain the position advantage on his foe (AC 28 or 19 DMG, +2 position advantage, Expertise +5, no power attack).
The Heroes (DMJK) d20+6=21 d20+6=10 d20+6=22 d20+6=12 d20+6=25 Friday May 10th, 2002 9:21:34 AM
Two of the hook horrors manage to dodge the full fury of Nonam's spell, but the other three get caught right in the middle. The intense heat makes the exoskeletons pop, but it doesn't put any of the beasts down. Indeed, they don't even look close to going down.
Tericus blasts the front and center monster with a searing light. It staggers back and tries to shield its eyes, but it too is ready to fight on.
Gareth moves to engage the one on the left, and he gives it a good pounding. He even manages to crack the shell a bit, but rather than fall it clicks its hooks together in anticipation of dinner.
Addinein and Jus float at the edge awestruck by the things before them.
The Horror (DMJK) d20+16=24 2d10(7+7)=14 d20+16=34 d20+16=24 d20+11=17 d100=72 2d6(4+4)+9=17 d20+16=18 Friday May 10th, 2002 9:40:11 AM
The monster that Tericus blasted takes a running leap and tries to snatch his aerial foe. Tericus catches the powerful blow on his shield and barely manages to turn it aside. Then the hook horror floats in the air a second before its 400 pound bulk falls to the step below where it lands with a sickening crunch. It's not deterred very long and is soon back on its feet despite damage from the fall and the searing light.
The monster Gareth attacked returns the favor. Claw, claw, and a bite from the vicious looking hooked beak. One of the claws sneaks by Gareth's skillful defense and even beats the displacement cloak. The claw is razor sharp and Gareth feels the cut despite the stoneskins (17dmg, 10 from ss, 7 from hp).
The next nearest horror rushes toward Gareth and tries to strike with a single claw, but the warrior dodges the heavy blow.
Nonam's group spreads out a bit more to avoid the flames but none is quite so brash as to leap off the ledge like Tericus' would-have-been killer. The others jockey for position and look out to the edge to wait for the enemy.
--------------------- horror AC 19, if everyone would be so kind as to post your own current AC, it would help me out. It's hard to keep track of all the spells and tricks.
a new crude map: up [h------------h------h-] [-------h--------------] [--h------h-----------h] [---hh-------h-----h---] dn..G....h.T....N ...........AJ (all party members in the air one way or another)
[Clangden can now choose the time for his entrance. Feel free to take a little dramatic license as you make your first impression.]
Clangden d20+29=32 d20+24=36 d20+19=33 d10+22=28 d10+22=32 d10+22=32 Friday May 10th, 2002 12:03:40 PM
from the balconey to the right of the stairs, over looking the present set of stairs, comes a battle roar like none other, and leaping over the railing onto the first step with the (h on the right) Hook Horror comes an aged Dwarf, full of spunk and fire, screaming dwarven curses and singing a god awful song in dwarvish. Dressed in Full Dwarven Plate made out of Mithral, carrying a dwarven waraxe in both hands while a shield floats around him he tears into the Hook Horror with the ferocity of a lion on his prey. Swinging 3 times, (hitting ac 32, 36, 33 doing a total of 92 points of damage). Clangden then turns to the rest of the group and says: you all didnt think I would let you have all the fun, did ya? and with that said, a look of pure extasy shrouds over his face, as if Clangden thrived for combat.
Clangden ** ac 32** Friday May 10th, 2002 12:05:02 PM
sorry, forgot to post ac.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 120 pts left) d20+25=30 d20+20=31 d20+15=18 d20+14=16 d20+14=24 d20+14=27 d10+14=20 d10+14=23 d10+14=21 Friday May 10th, 2002 2:53:15 PM
The warrior grunts as he endures what registers to him as a small scratch. This time he cuts into his first opponent with all 3 attacks (Hit AC 30,31,18 for 20+23+21 DMG). "Nice to have you along - dwarf...". Somehow Gareth knows he has met this guy before - somewhere...
(Expertise +5, disregard d20 rolls 4,5,6. They were supposed to be d10s.)
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) d20+23=28 d10+10=19 d8=7 Friday May 10th, 2002 5:15:43 PM
Jus fires his bow at one of the creatures near Nonam, managing to place the arrow through one of the Hook Horror's joints (AC: 28; Dam: 26).
Reaching to his quiver for another arrow, Jus feels nothing but empty air. Landing on the edge of the step, drawing his swords in the process (Quick Draw). This should please the dwarves, Jus thinks to himself. Either that, or get himself killed.
With an unusual gleam in his eye, Jus relishes the thought of the fight he's about to ensue. "Hey, Dwarf!" Jus yells with a chuckle, "What do you earn if we make it to the top?"
Tericus d20+9=23 d20+4=10 d8+4=12 Saturday May 11th, 2002 9:46:59 AM
"Who's that?" Tericus asks as he floats down to the Hook Horror that leapt at him and attacks, hitting once(23) for 12 pts of damage
Nonam (alter self, gmw) 10d6(2+1+2+2+6+2+3+4+3+2)=27 Sunday May 12th, 2002 10:11:06 AM
Nonam calls out to Clangden in the dwarven tongue, "Couldn't stay out of the fight, eh?"
Then the wizard lines up the three horrors in the center of the step and zaps them with his wand of lightning.
(ref dc20 for 1/2) (AC=29 not bad for the wizard)
cutting down the horror - dmjk Monday May 13th, 2002 8:06:43 AM
Clangden arrives with a leap and a smash and cuts down the hook horror before him. Giant bug guts splatter all over him. It's quite fun.
Gareth finishes off the hook horror in front of him and finds that he too gets bug juice all over himself. He hopes it doesn't stain his shimmery displacement cloak. [I have Gareth's stoneskin at 106. 130pts - 10 mino - 4 flayer - 10 horror]
Jus fires at the center beast near Nonam and lodges an arrow through its shoulder joint. It screams out in pain and looks about for a victim.
Then Nonam blasts it and a couple of its fellows with a lightning bolt. The one with Jus' arrow falls dead, but the other two look really mad.
Tericus thunks the horror down below with his mace, and it snarls at him without much amusement.
Addinien (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin d20+13=33 d20=12 d20+8=12 d6+6=8 Monday May 13th, 2002 8:13:11 AM
"They navigate by sound and do not see well". With that said Addinein flys over by Nonam and launches the dancing sword. (on the horror to the left if he's still there, otherwise on the one to the right.
Using his expertise to a slight improvement in AC (3) Addiniens AC with a designated dodge to which ever horror he attacks is 28 (27 for everyone else).
AC 33 (no crit) AC 12
8 points dam
The horror - dmjk d20+16=33 d20+16=20 d20+11=26 2d6(6+4)+9=19 2d6(2+6)+9=17 d20+16=17 d20+16=19 d20+11=29 d100=61 2d6(4+5)+9=18 d20+16=33 d100=2 d20+16=36 d20+16=26 d100=18 d20+16=30 d20+16=24 d20+11=30 d20+16=26 d20+16=31 d20+16=24 d20+11=21 2d6(2+5)+9=16 Monday May 13th, 2002 8:24:40 AM
The horror down below with Tericus swipes at him with hooks and beak. One of the hooks scores a dangerous hit (19dmg), and the beak is perilously close to a bite (if 26AC hits, then 17dmg).
The still living beast on Gareth goes at him in full force. The claws swing wildly, but the beak snaps pretty close (if 29AC hits, then 18dmg, beat displacement w/61) Two others rush Gareth and make their initial assaults. One attacks from the floor on the warrior's left. The other leaps atop the body of its fallen comrade, thereby limiting the warrior's height advantage. One thought it was going to strike a solid blow, but it was confused by Gareth's displacement cloak. The one atop the dead body by all rights should have split Gareth down the middle, but the cloak foiled it too.
Two of the horrors gang up on Clangden. One was close enough to get a full attack. It hammers its claws against the mighty dwarf's armor, but the dwarven craftsmanship proves to be superior to silly monster claws. The other snaps at the dwarf's silly head with its sharp beak, but Clangden's floating shield gets in the way.
Jus draws the one in the center when he lands. It gives him the full treatment (16 dmg if AC 31 hits).
[100xp to Clangden for telling me his AC. If everyone else would please follow suit, I'd be happy.]
up [----------------------] [-------h--------------] [---h-------h----h---hx] [--hxh------Jx-------hC] dn..G....hT....N ...........AJ
Tericus d20+11=27 d20+4=23 d8+5=7 d8+5=10 Monday May 13th, 2002 8:47:17 AM
taking the full blunt of the horrors attacks(both attacks hit) Tericus swings back, hitting twice(hopefully) for 7 and 10 pts of damage. "Im getting squashed here." Tericus yells out
Clangden **ac32** d20+29=37 d20+10=30 d20+29=36 d20+24=31 d20+19=28 d10+22=23 d10+22=31 d10+22=27 d20+24=29 d20+19=30 d10+22=30 d10+22=32 Monday May 13th, 2002 1:40:06 PM
smiling deftly at the hook horror directly in front of him, Clangden feints an attack, swiping his axe behind the creatures legs, and pulling forcefully towards him and up, attempting to trip it. (improved trip feat) (strength check at a 30, natural 20 rolled) If successful, and the creature falls, Clangden continues his rain of blows upon it, and slashes it unmercifully. (forgot to add the +4 for a prone creature, hitting ac 40,35,32 for a total of 80 points of damage) If unsuccessful, he takes his next 2 attacks and pounds it, hoping for better luck on the next round. (hitting ac 29,30 for a total of 62 points of damage)
In common, Clangden roars out: When have you heard of a dwarf ever staying out of a good fight? As for what do I get if we all reach the top? I get the satisfaction of knowing I did what was right yet again, and not to mention, I get to kill things that should be killed, and hopefully, this will prove my worth to you and you will allow me the priviledge of joining you on the war against that despicable Martues, who I here vow, in these creatures and our blood and these witnesses, to destroy.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow/Arrows +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 80hp max]; Keen Arrows; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) d20+17=29 d10+4=9 Monday May 13th, 2002 5:05:47 PM
Jus, worried for Tericus, breaks off from the crab in front of him, keeping the Shield between Jus and the creature. Zooming down to the step below, Jus lashes out at the Hook Horror, striking it a solid blow (ac:29; dam:9). Jus swings the Shield back around between him and the Horror and continues to yell, trying to keep the creature's focus on him.
"How's everyone doing?" Jus calls to the others through the Dragon Rings.
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) d20+25=32 d20+20=30 d20+15=34 d20+17=28 d10+14=20 d10+14=18 d10+14=19 d10+14=19 d20+25=40 d10+14=19 Monday May 13th, 2002 6:01:37 PM
The warrior smiles as he understands these critters need to hear. He promtly holds his shield up and says "Shhhhhhh". [Silence 15' Radius]. He then cuts into the one that is standing on his fallen comrade (Hit AC 32,30,34,[28] for 20+18+19+[19]=76 DMG, Cleave: AC 40, 19 DMG). (Expertise +5, Gareth's AC 33)
Nonam 5d4(2+4+2+2+2)+5=17 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 7:55:24 AM
Nonam casts a magic missile at the horror down below in an effort to help Tericus out of his jam.
(17dmg)
DMJK d20+16=17 2d10(3+8)=11 d20=12 d20+16=31 d20+16=25 d20+11=12 d100=22 d20+16=18 d20+16=26 d20+11=27 d100=76 2d6(1+3)+9=13 d20+16=30 d20+16=19 d20+11=13 d100=49 d20+9=16 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 8:16:51 AM
Addinein launches his sword to the horror on the right, one of the two that now battles Clangden. It connects, but the small rapier deals little damage to the massive monster.
Tericus, Jus, and Nonam combine their efforts to finish off the monster that fell.
As Jus flies off the step, the horror that was near him makes an attack of opportunity. It misses, but the blow causes it to topple from the edge and fall. It comes down fast right on top of Jus, Tericus, and the other horror. 11 dmg to all involved. Ref DC18 or you are pinned under it.
The fallen horror tries to bite Jus before it begins to think of getting up, but it fails to connect in the jumble.
Gareth's shield keeps him from pulling in any more of the creatures, but the ones already near him can see well enough to try to smash him. He beats on the one that's standing on the body of its fellow, but he doesn't deal quite enough damage to kill it. All three rain silent blows on the warrrior. His cloak saves him from all but one. (1st=Ac31,miss disp; 2nd=AC27?,hitdisp, 13dmg; 3rd=AC30, miss disp).
Clangden flips the horror on its back and beats on it with his axe. He doesn't dish out quite enough damage to kill it though. Eh well, more fun that way.
The tripped horror tries to regain its footing. The other turns to deal with Addinein's sword only to find no one there.
the horror closest to Clangden and not otherwise engaged drifts over to the sounds of fighting. The other two are drawn toward the edge and the sounds of fighting coming from below.
The dwarves hoot and holler as Clangden joins the fight, "He'll teach 'em a thing or two!"
When the horror falls on top of Jus and Tericus the short dwarves let out a combined, "Oooo."
AC 33 AC 33 AC 33 AC 33 AC 33 :) Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) d20+25=27 d20+20=30 d20+15=22 d10+14=15 d10+14=19 d10+14=24 d20+25=26 d10+14=18 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 9:13:00 AM
The warrior rains death down silently as he cuts again into the creature on him (Hit AC 27,30,22 for 15+19+24 Cleave: AC 26, 18 DMG). (Expertise +5, Gareth's AC 33 - was posted yesterday... :)).
Tericus(ac26) d20+6=15 d20+6=9 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 9:34:18 AM
"Get this thing off of me!!" Tericus yells as the weight of the Hook Horror keeps him pinned to the floor(failed ref. roll and hero pt reroll)
Clangden**ac32** d20+29=47 d20+24=39 d20+19=28 d20+29=37 d10+22=24 d10+22=31 d10+22=28 d10+22=24 d10+22=25 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 12:35:37 PM
Taking advantage of the other Hook Horror's distractiveness, Clangden attacks the one just attacked by Addinein, scoring a critical on the first attack, (rolled a natural 18, need 17-20 to crit with axe, +29 = 47, followed up threat with a 37), then striking 1 more time, (hit ac 39) and then takes a 5 foot step towards the Hook Horror he felled the first time, and swings on him with his last attack (hit ac 37).
doing a total of 87(crit)+28=115 points of damage on the first creature, followed up with 25 points of damage on the second creature.
Clangden lets out a Dwarven cry: Death to all who follow Martues. (in dwarvish)
then he flexes, and then motions for the next Hook Horror to step up.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) d20+10=30 d20+17=28 d20+12=30 d20+14=17 d10+4=8 d10+4=14 d6+1=3 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 2:09:50 PM
Jus sees the Hook Horror falling from above and dives into a roll, keeping well away from the falling atrocity. [made DC with 30]
Wishing he had time to activate his Boots of Speed, Jus ignores this desire and immediately attacks the Horror that has flattened Tericus.
"Come on, beast!" Jus continues his yells, trying to get the Horror to ignore Tericus. "Get off your duff and attack me!" Interspersing his words with attacks, Jus' swords strike true twice [ac: 28/30/17(miss) dam: 8/14]
clangden Tuesday May 14th, 2002 6:45:02 PM
correction, damage i did was 87(crit)+24=111, not 115.
Addinien (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin AC 24 d20+16=30 d20+11=24 2d6(5+3)+6=14 2d6(2+1)+6=9 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 12:00:29 AM
Seeing that Clangden has things well in hand (assuming so), Addinein hears Turicus's call and moves over to help him out as best he can. With concern for Turicus's well being, Addinein bears fully into the horror not worrying about his defense.
AC 30 for 14 points (forgot d6 for shock in last post.)
AC 24 for 9 points of damage
DMJK d20+16=28 d20+16=34 d20+11=13 2d6(6+2)+9=17 d20+16=31 d20+16=21 d20+11=12 d10=4 Thursday May 16th, 2002 8:11:12 AM
Gareth and Clangden both manage to dispatch two of the horrors.
Clangden immediately has another beastie to deal with as the one that had been moving over joins the fray. It manages to land one solid blow from its heay claw (AC34,17dmg)
Gareth's silence keeps any new baddies from drifting over, but he still has one left. It tries to pummel the warrior, but doesn't have much luck.
The crushing weight of the heavy beast down below deals Tericus an additional 4pts dmg. Furthermore, it hurts when Jus and Addinein hit it. Addinein's shock damage to the thing especially hurts.
Addinein and Jus beat on the thing, but nothing really seems to help until it gets off Tericus on its own. It stands and looks down at the two warriors.
The two remaining horrors up above look like they're about to jump off and join the fighting down below.
Nonam d100=35 Thursday May 16th, 2002 8:16:37 AM
Finally realizing that he sold it, Nonam stops fumbling about for his wand of fire. Instead, he casts a wall of force before the two on the edge to keep them from going down.
[horror AC was 19]
Clangden **ac32** d20+29=47 d20+24=43 d20+19=23 d20+29=47 d20+24=29 d20+22=31 d20+22=30 d20+22=35 d20+22=33 d20+22=36 d20+22=25 d20+22=38 Thursday May 16th, 2002 8:24:20 AM
Clangden steps up to the 1 Hook Horror on him, and wincing with it's attack, Clangden lets out a loud roar, in an attempt to gain the attention of the remaining 2 Horrors, and then goes full bore on the one in front of him. Landing 2 solid blows (both crits) and then the last is also a hit (norm) for a total of 228 points of damage. (31+30+35+33+36+25+38)
Gareth (Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left,AC 33) d20+25=36 d20+20=36 d20+15=27 d10+14=19 d10+14=17 d10+14=24 Thursday May 16th, 2002 8:59:52 AM
The warrior wails on the last of his foes, liking the fact that his silence gives him a bit more control over when the things close (Hit AC 36,36,27 for 19+17+24=60 DMG). If dispatched he moves up behind the next closest horror.
Tericus Thursday May 16th, 2002 9:33:00 AM
grasping his side in pain, Tericus calls upon the power of his goddess and casts divine power on himself(strength of 18, base attack bonus for a fighter of my level and 11 extra hps). then he stands up and says to the horror "Want to try again?"
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin AC 24 d20+16=21 d20+11=16 2d6(3+2)+6=11 2d6(1+4)+6=11 Thursday May 16th, 2002 10:17:21 AM
Not wanting to draw things out, Addinein does his best to help dispatch the horror. Making crisscrossing score marks on the horror Addineins scores with 22 points of damage.
Clangden d10+22=24 d10+22=28 d10+22=27 d10+22=29 d10+22=23 d10+22=26 d10+22=32 Thursday May 16th, 2002 2:44:04 PM
OOPPS, i rolled a d20 instead of a d10 for damage, here is the revised damage.
24+28+27+29+23+26+32=189 points of damage.
sorry.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) d20+17=27 d20+12=26 d20+14=18 d10+4=14 d6+1=6 Thursday May 16th, 2002 8:28:53 PM
Jus glances upwards, considering what he should do to the two Hook Horrors lurking above. Before he's able to decide, a wall of fire appears in from of them. "Thanks, Nonam," Jus comments through his ring.
Focusing on the beastie in front of him, Jus hits it with his swords once again. His first attack is very solid, scoring a hit through the Hook Horror's underbelly. The next attack with Jus' off hand is almost as good, striking the Horror against the side of its head. [ac:27/26/18(miss) dam:14/6]
Moving Right Along (DMJK) Monday May 20th, 2002 9:39:03 AM
Clangden and Gareth easily finish off their opponents in solo combat.
Nonam stops the other two up above from jumping down on Tericus with his wall of force.
Working together, Addinein and Jus put down the one that fell off the edge.
The divine power infuses Tericus' spirit, and he can feel his goddess with him urging him to sing.
That leaves two horrors beating against Nonam's wall of force. They're making so much racket they don't notice anything else, and Gareth and Clangden are able to put them down without much resistance.
A moment to regroup... Tericus seems pretty beat up, and Clangden isn't currently flying and lacks the mobility shared by the rest of the group.
The dwarves start to cheer with the success against the hook horrors, but the applause instantly dies away as something appears on the next step up. The dwarves seem to just be staring. Then there is a loud whooping shriek.
It sounded dragon-like.
Nonam Monday May 20th, 2002 9:41:04 AM
The wizard calls down over the edge, "Is everyone all right down there? We can take a moment for healing or planning before we head up. Not too long because these things can apparently move down the stairs, and we don't want to get caught napping."
Clangden**ac32** Monday May 20th, 2002 1:03:01 PM
takes a rag from his belt and wipes away the bug goo from his face, hands and axe, then walks up to the others, making sure they are all ok. looking at Gareth, he says: you don't fight too bad, for a human. not that i don't like humans, i do, they taste good with the right seasonings. <loud, cackling laughter> seriously my boy, you did well, almost as good as a dwarf. hearing Nonam, he turns and says: yes, healing up and readying for the next one would be good. sounds to me like one of them scaly, motherless dogs. if it wouldn't be too much trouble, might i impose on you to cast a few spells on me for this next encounter? a Stoneskin, Haste and if you have it, a Magic Resistance buff would do nicely, even a Cat's Grace would help me out nicely too. oh, and i sure could use one of the spells that allows me to fly, like the rest of you. now, if you don't mind the rantings of an old dwarf, here is my advice for the next level. let me and Gareth there go up on the right side, let us gain his attention, then the rest of you head up on the left side, catching him unawares and just BLAST the bejeezus out of it. but be careful not to kill us <motioning to Gareth and himself> too. Gareth boy, when we get up there, you attack the left side of him and ill target his right side, that'll keep him divided plus if it is a dragon, it won't put us both in his radius for his breath weapon. with that said, he kisses his axe, and then watches the others. waiting.
Gareth (AC 35***,Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) Monday May 20th, 2002 3:19:21 PM
The warrior nods to the rowdy dwarf. "Sounds like a good plan. We can go through the formalities later I'm sure. Any other ideas? If nobody can make you fly I can carry you up.". When the decision is made to go up, the warrior grabs the dwarf if needed, goes invisible, and flies up the stair. As he does, he looks to see how many stairs are left.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) Monday May 20th, 2002 5:21:56 PM
Jus smiles at Clangden's enthusiasm. He certainly is in the swing of things. Looking towards Gareth to make the groups decision, Jus gives a "righto, mighty leader!" to Gareth with a grin. "I do have one request: It would *greatly* help if anyone had arrows they could give me. And if anyone has a Greater Magic Weapon left to bestow upon them, it would be even better."
Watching the others prepare, Jus looks upward to the next step. In a quite whisper, Jus speaks through the Dragon Consortium Rings, "This has been pretty easy so far, friends. But let's not get too cocky. Our dwarven comrades seem to expect a few of us will drop before we make it to the top."
Right before they go up to the next step, Jus activates his Glove so he can use it to full effect when he arrives.
Gareth Monday May 20th, 2002 10:56:19 PM
The warrior frowns as he realizes he hasn't replentished since the encounter with the Dark Lord's minions. "Sorry Jus, I'm still all out from the big fight.".
Tericus(divine power) Monday May 20th, 2002 11:15:13 PM
wiping some of the blood off his face, Tericus says "I can take care of most of our problems. Hold on a sec." then Tericus chants a quick spell on himself and all his wounds dissapear(cast heal on himself). then he walks over to Clangden and touches him on the shoulder(cast air walk on him). "That should allow you too keep up with us. You just think about walking in air and my spell will allow yo to do just that." then turning to everyone else he says "I can cast a couple of spells that will protect us from fire or lightining, but if we dont know whats up there its pretty much a guessing game. But if any of you are wounded let me know now and ill heal all your wounds."
Addinien (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin AC 24 d4+1=5 Monday May 20th, 2002 11:24:37 PM
Seeing the others in the group having no problem with the strangers help Addinein adds, "If you are willing, I can help with the Cat's Grace. I could even set up a shield to help." If the newcomer doesn't stop him Addinein will then cast Cat's Grace (+5), and if wanted Shield.
A brief rest (DMJK) Tuesday May 21st, 2002 9:17:57 AM
Tericus heals himself and puts an airwalk spell on Clangden, and Addinein casts Cat's Grace.
Another shreik from up above.... make that 3 more shreiks.
Whenever the group is ready...
Gareth (AC 35***,Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) Tuesday May 21st, 2002 10:47:46 AM
The warrior looks to the others "Let's go.". The warrior goes invisible and goes up on the right with the dwarf.
Clangden**ac37**Cat's Grace +5**Air Walking** d20+17=23 Tuesday May 21st, 2002 12:30:18 PM
Heading up to the right as planned, Clangden thinks about walking on air and finds himself doing so, cautiously taking the first step and finding it as solid as on ground, Clangden rushes up as fast as he can go. Upon coming up to the first step, Clangden takes in what he can as quickly as he can (spot of 23)and then prepares himself for the battle he knows to soon be upon him. (full defense for the first round, ac goes up to 37)
Nonam Tuesday May 21st, 2002 4:32:40 PM
Not terribly eager to be the first one in view, Nonam casts invisibility on himself and flaps his wings to move up with the warriors.
Tericus(divine power) Tuesday May 21st, 2002 4:41:35 PM
following behind Gareth, Tericus says quietly "I hppe this is the last step."
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32; AC in front w/ Shield: 39) Tuesday May 21st, 2002 6:01:31 PM
Jus teases, "Ah, come on! You can share your arrows with me?" With a resigned sign, Jus realizes he'll have to forgoe using his bow this time and keep swinging his sword -- at least the dwarves will be happy.
"I can't go invisible, so I'll keep away from the rest of your spellcasters. I'll land towards Gareth and the dwarf, but far enough away that we can't all three be caught in the same spell or breath weapon." Jus says this last, not really expecting a dragon -- especially since there sounds like there are three opponents up above.
Giving Gareth and the dwarf a moment to head up by themselves, Jus heads upwards with both swords drawn, ready to attack.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin AC 24 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 12:12:38 AM
Addinein comes up to the next step in a slightly delayed flanking maneuver on the left side of the step. He makes sure to land where he can make use of his boots if he has to.
The 9th Step (DMJK) 3d6(3+5+1)=9 3d6(1+2+6)=9 3d6(2+5+5)=12 3d6(5+3+1)=9 3d6(4+6+1)=11 3d6(5+4+2)=11 3d6(2+4+4)=10 3d6(3+2+6)=11 3d6(1+6+5)=12 3d6(4+5+4)=13 3d6(5+5+4)=14 3d6(4+5+4)=13 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 9:01:09 AM
Coming up over the edge, you see something that looks like it came out of a nightmare. Sort of like a dragon, but with 10... no make that 12 heads. Most of you have never seen one, but you've heard the tales. It's a hydra. The thing is a reddish color, and it smells of sulfur. The heads instantly turn to face the visible members of the party. Four heads each look at Jus, Tericus, and Addinein.
Then they spew fire. Four gouts of flame fire at Jus (9,9,12,9 dmg). Another four at Tericus (11, 11, 10, 11 dmg), and the last four at Addinein (12, 13, 14, 14 dmg).
Reflex save DC21 for 1/2 dmg from each blast.
Those not directly targeted run the risk of getting in the way. Nonam, Gareth, and Clangden need to roll even-odd. Odd they're in the path of the flames. Clangden gets Jus' dmg if he misses. Gareth gets Tericus', and Nonam gets Addinein's.
Nonam (haste, stoneskin 130, alter self[wings], gmw, detect magic, see invisible) 5d4(3+3+4+2+4)=16 13d6(2+1+6+6+1+5+2+6+3+2+1+2+3)=40 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 9:14:26 AM
Expecting the new foe to be a little tougher than the last few, Nonam kicks on his boots of speed and moves himself so that he's more or less behind the creature. Then he casts a quickened magic missile at one of the heads near Tericus. (16dmg)
The magic missile triggers Nonam's contingency spell, and he's immediately protected by a stoneskin.
He finishes off by casting a cone of cold at as many of the heads as he can. He takes care not to get any party members even if it means getting fewer heads. (40dmg each head affected, ref 1/2 dc24)
Nonam d2=1 d2=2 d100=22 d100=97 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 9:17:53 AM
Even-odd. Reroll with a hero point. % roles for spells cast in armor. MM and CoC come off fine.
DMJK Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 9:25:14 AM
Did a hero point tally for the stairs so far. I think Nonam and Gareth have used 3. Jus used 2, and Tericus used 1. Make sure to cross them off and not reuse them.
Gareth (AC 35, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left,Invisible) d20+27=46 d10+14=24 d20+27=29 d10+14=24 d2+14=16 d2=1 d20+10=11 d20+10=14 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 9:58:06 AM
The warrior grimaces has the flames wash over him. Not only does he get hit (even) - he takes it head on (failed save DC 11)! After the mages finish their initial volley, the warrior comes straight in at the beast, gratified that his invisibility is working but fearful of the affect on his friends. He targets the head closest to him and strikes. He roars with confidence as his strike is about as good as he has. (Hit AC 46,[29] for 24+[24]=48 DMG)
Clangden**Air Walking**AC-37**Cat's Grace +5 d6=1 d6=2 d20+24=35 d20+19=39 d20+19=32 d20+14=24 d20+22=39 d20+22=24 d20+22=25 d20+22=23 d20+22=25 d10+22=27 d10+22=31 d10+22=30 d10+22=31 d10+22=31 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 11:48:49 AM
(rolled a 1 for even odd, used a hero point and got a 2. not in line)
Clangden steps in front of Jus, hoping to distract the Hydra from physically attacking Jus. Letting out a loud roar, Clangden lets loose a full volley of attacks on one of the heads.
(Uses Expertise feat to subtract 5 points from all attacks and add 5 to AC)
Striking the head 3 times, one being critical.
(Disregard the first 5 damage rolls, again used d20 instead of d10)
Damage: 27(norm)+31+30+31(crit)+31(norm)=150pts.
Taking a 5 foot step towards another head, Clangden uses his Dodge feat towards it, gaining an additional 1 point of AC towards it.(ac38 towards 1 head)
Tericus(divine power) d20+6=7 d20+6=22 d20+18=22 d20+13=20 d20+8=13 d8+7=10 d8+7=9 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 11:59:27 PM
barly able to dodge some of the flames shooting at him(used hero pt for reroll) Tericus lashes out at the nearest head with his mace, hitting ac 22 and 20(im sure 13 misses) for 10 and 9 pts each
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power [+13HP, 18Str]) d20+13=33 d20+13=33 d20+13=21 d20+13=32 d20+24=31 d20+19=35 d20+14=22 d20+16=29 d10+11=17 d10+11=20 d10+11=18 d6+3=4 d20+24=30 d10+11=14 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 4:32:13 AM
Jus feels the Divine Power flow through him as his glove activates. He barely remembers flying up to the ledge, instead relishing the power that flows through his body. No wonder the fighters rush headstrong into a fight, this is a rush! Jus thinks to himself as the adrenalin pours through his body.
The adrenalin also sharpens his mind and his senses; in a fluid rush, Jus side-steps and rolls past the breath weapons, barely noticing their presence [save: nat 20, nat 20, 21, 32 wow! No damage with Ring of Evasion].
Slicing and Dicing, Jus relishes, this is the way it should be. His blades whiz through the air, hitting the hydra repeatedly. He doesn't know if his blows did any damage, but, frankly, Jus doesn't care; he's having way too much fun. [ac:31/35/22/29 dam:17/20/18/4]. Doing all he can to keep his tempo up, Jus switches on his Boots of Speed and is able to work in one more attack [ac:30 dam:14].
With the hydra's blood covering him, Jus stretches back and lets out a primal scream that competes with any the Dwarves have given so far.
Addinien Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin AC 24 d20+10=12 d20+10=28 d20+10=26 d20+10=18 d20+16=25 d20+11=24 2d6(6+2)+6=14 2d6(3+1)+6=10 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 7:35:31 AM
Acting like a burnt match, Addinein retreats a little bit after taking 39 points of damage. Talking through the ring, 'That hurt a lot. If anyone can give aid?'
Not wanting to get caught in a crossfire like that again, Addinein does his best engage one of the heads away from where Gareth and Dwarf should be. Using his dancing sword Addinein stabs at the head and releases the sword. (AC 24 and 25 for 14 points (2 points shock) and 10 points (1 point shock)). If he can, he'll move to another location where any breathing results in hitting itself.
DMJK d12=2 d4=2 d4=1 d4=1 d4=3 d4=1 d4=3 d20+24=44 d20+24=27 d20+24=41 d20+24=32 d20+24=38 d10+6=11 d10+6=16 d10+6=15 d20+24=41 d20+24=42 d10+6=16 d10+6=8 d20+24=34 d20+24=37 d100=52 d10+6=9 d20+24=40 d20+24=33 d20+24=31 d20+24=39 d10+6=12 d10+6=9 d20+24=42 d20+24=35 d10+6=16 d10+6=13 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 8:41:47 AM
Nonam's magic missile seems to tick the hydra off. The attacked head roars in rage giving Tericus the perfect opportunity to smack it with his mace. The head takes a beating, but the damage seems negligible.
Nonam's Cone of Cold spell freezes two of the heads near Addinein, but already the creature is struggling to regain their use.
The sword wielders have much better luck. Gareth severs a head. Clangden lops off two. Jus gets one, and Addinein's dancing blade easily takes off one that Nonam froze. That one nearly just broke off. (d12 to see how many heads Nonam got)
Almost instantly new heads emerge from the spot where Clangden chopped two off. He took off two, but the thing grows four. Four heads came off, and it's already regrown four. It's like you didn't do anything to it. Then two more grow back where Addinein lopped off a head. Now it has 14. It's tougher than when you started, and to make matters worse the stumps where Gareth and Jus lopped off heads are bubbling like they'll soon grow new heads too. (5 d4s to see how quick heads grow back) (another d4 to see when it will breathe again)
Then the heads move in for the attack. Clangden gets the four new ones. Clangden quickly figures out this thing could eat hook horror's for breakfast. He gets bitten 3 times despite dodging (AC44(27),41,32,38: dmg 11,16,15). Addinein gets the other two new ones. Both manage to bite him, and he feels the teeth ripping the flesh off his arm (AC41,42: dmg 16,8 (18 from his stoneskin, 6 to Add)). Gareth gets two of the old ones. One fails to punch through his armor, but the other one hits him (ac 34,37(52beats disp):dmg 9(from stoneskin)). Jus gets two. One head bashes into his shield spell, and hasty Jus dodges out of the way of the other (AC40,33). Two spy Tericus and snake out toward him. One bites deeply into his left leg, and the other rips into the shoulder of his mace arm. (AC31,39: dmg 12,9). The last two go for Nonam. The mage tries to get his shield up, but it doesn't help. One head catches one of his wings and nearly rips it out and the other catches him in the midsection (AC42,35: dmg 16,13 (20 from stoneskin, 9 to Nonam).
The heads all shriek together, and the dwarves who had been cheering Clangden on, all watch in silence.
Nonam (haste, stoneskin 130, alter self[wings], gmw, detect magic, see invisible) d4+13=17 d100=59 d20+11=16 5d6(5+3+6+3+2)=19 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 8:49:00 AM
Nonam shouts out, "Fire or acid to seal the necks." And he lands on the things back and sprays the stump Jus cut off with a burning hands spell. If he can fit the other stump into the area, he'll get it too. (17dmg)
Then for good measure, he casts disintegrate on the body. (touchAC=16, fortdc23/ partial 19dmg)
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) Thursday May 23rd, 2002 9:31:21 AM
NOTE: Gareth rolled even last time - he took no damage from the breath weapon...
Seeing the thing regenerating rapidly, he decides to do damage control first. He drops his shield (AC now 32) and pulls out an oil flask. He fights defensively (AC now 34) until someone else can get ready to ignite the oil. "I have oil and a torch - nothing else that can help!".
Clangden (AC-33(dodge), Cat's Grace+5, Air Walking) d20+19=38 d20+32=51 d10+32=42 d10+32=37 d10+32=39 d20+19=32 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 12:25:13 PM
Taking a brief second to take in what just happened, Clangden decides to Air Walk above the body of the Hydra, then drops down on it, trying his best to hack it to pieces.
(hit ac38, rolling a nat.19(crit threat) followed up with a ac32(crit)) (dam being 42+37+39=118)
**I used the Power Attack feat, taking away 10 from my attack and adding it to damage**
(disregard the d20+32 roll)
Tericus d8+12=17 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 6:52:13 PM
"Toss me your torch Gareth. I cant really do anything to hurt it!" Tericus yells, then he casts healing circle on his friends(everyone within a 20 ft radius of Tericus heals 17 pts back, it doesnt heal the hydra)
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 2) [+13HP, 18Str]) d20+24=40 d20+19=28 d20+14=24 d20+17=32 d10+11=13 d10+11=13 d10+11=18 d6+3=4 d20+21=41 d100=94 d20+19=26 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 10:29:01 PM
Jus uncharacteristically curses, but not because the heads reappear -- he seems incredibly delighted about that. He makes it known, in no uncertain terms, how upset he is that he has no arrows to try out while using his new glove.
Gleefully, he hacks at the beast some more, laughing at the hydra's attempt to maim him. "Come on, you sissy", Jus taunts, "maybe you should send more of your heads after me!" (ac:40/28/24/32; dam:13/13/18/4)
By sheer force of will, Jus doesn't strike again, but sheaths his swords (Quick Draw Feat). Giggling with anticipation, Jus casts Bestow Curse and touches the hydra.
[made concentration check with 41 (nat 20); Made Armor SF Check with 94; hit ac: 26 (touch attack; hydra's armor bonus, shield bonus, or natural armor bonus does not count); hydra needs to save DC 23 or there is a 50% chance of inaction each round.]
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29down 44 d20+11=12 Friday May 24th, 2002 3:29:03 AM
Thinking to himself 'That's not what I wanted' Addinein goes and reclaims the dancing sword. (if he can, Addinein will move within the healing circle. no map, so unsure whether he was within 20 or not). So he does his maneuvering in order to strike the body of the hydra. Switching to use expertise in full defensive mode (+5 to AC -5 to attack), Addinein moves in once more on the body. With so many things to think about, Addinein misses very badly, causing him to miss for the rest of his attacks.
Stupid Wizard ruining the DMs fun(DMJK) d20+13=16 Friday May 24th, 2002 8:27:22 AM
Sons of... (it missed the save)
Nonam's disintegrate ray touches the thing in the midst of the back. A huge section of the monster disappears, and all the heads, now detached from the hydra, fall to the ground. They writhe about and try to bite at things for a few seconds, but then they stop moving. Nothing grows back. It's dead.
Jus keeps his spell. Tericus heals up everyone. Gareth manages not to light his torch. Clangden finds there isn't much left to smash, and Addinein reclaims his dancing sword.
The dwarves find that they can appreciate this sort of magic and cheer. After the first 9 steps, everyone is covered in blood and gore. Some of it is your own, most of it isn't. Gareth is especially a mess. Clangden's quickly catching up to him though, Tericus is probably going to need new clothes.
One step left to go.
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left) Friday May 24th, 2002 8:48:27 AM
The warrior smiles as the hydra falls to the ground dead and gratefully accepts Tericus' healing. "Wow, that was pretty cool, Nonam. Even the dwarves liked it. So, shall we finish this?". Gareth burns his last Invis for the day and mounts the final stair again on the right.
Tericus 4d8(8+5+7+8)+12=40 Friday May 24th, 2002 9:33:47 AM
casting cure critical wounds upon himself(40 back) Tericus says "Im glad you took care of that problem Noonan. Now, who else need healing."
Clangden (ac34-dodge-,cat's grace+5,air walking) Friday May 24th, 2002 10:50:42 AM
falls on his rump as soon as the section he was going to land on disappears. getting to his feet he watches the heads twitch around like a gnome out of water, or is it fish, who knows, they smell alike.
walking up to the mage, Clangden pats him on the back, saying: well done young mage, you have outdone yourself this fight. perhaps good sir, if you would happen to have any more spells that would assist us (me) in the next fight, I can tell you, this last one will be the mother of all fights.
to everyone else: remember folks, as someone who has done these steps before, let me just reiterate, all that matters from here on out is that the hammer strike the anvil above the 10th step. Gareth and I will do whatever it takes to keep whatever is on the next step occupied. someone must reach the hammer and strike the anvil with it or all that we have done here will be in vain.
Clangden accepts the offer of healing, and what ever other spells might be offered for the last encounter.
(JK, i redid my ac, forgot my armor allows a +3 for dex, didnt add it last time, hence the new ac)
motioning Gareth over before he goes up to the next step, Clangden asks that this time, someone scout up top before the we assend the step, so that this time we all can be better prepared and have a much better plan of attack.
Nonam Saturday May 25th, 2002 8:16:53 AM
In order to save their magic, Nonam deactivates his boots of speed while the party regroups. After Clangden says they only need to ring the anvil, he asks, "Then why didn't somebody just fly up and ring it to start with?"
Waiting for an answer he rumages through a pocket and pulls out a scroll. He holds it up, "Displacement. How's that sound?" He casts it on Clangden without really waiting for an answer.
Then he casts spell turning on himself. When done he says, "I can cast see invisibility on our scout."
Jus Sunday May 26th, 2002 5:08:55 AM
Jus deactivates his boots as well, too bad he can't do the same for his glove. To Nonam he says, "I'd be glad to scout ahead, if you have an invisibility to add to the see invisibility."
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 24 Monday May 27th, 2002 10:43:18 AM
Responding to C's comments, " As long as your brethren don't mind the fact that it's a single person. I had the feeling that we as the group was being tested, and that we shoudln't seperate in that fashion" While all the preparation takes place, Addinein takes the healing in order to get back up to full.
DMJK Tuesday May 28th, 2002 8:42:12 AM
The group makes their plans for the ascension to of the final step.
The dwarves start to get bored.
Gareth Tuesday May 28th, 2002 8:44:46 AM
Er - Gareth already went up the stair - twice...
Nonam Tuesday May 28th, 2002 8:48:38 AM
"I don't have another invisibility. Gareth may be the only one with one left. So Gareth, do you want to be the scout?"
If Gareth answers yes, Nonam casts the see invisible on him and offers this advice, "They might be able to see invisible too. I'd just pop your eyes up over the edge."
Tericus 3d8(5+5+7)+12=29 3d8(2+1+7)+12=22 2d8(7+2)+12=21 2d8(6+8)+12=26 Tuesday May 28th, 2002 9:07:24 AM
before everyone moves out, Tericus casts his healing spells on everyone(casts heal on Addinein,29 to Gareth, 22 to Noonan, 21 to Jus, and 26 to Clangden). "Anyone need any more?" he asks
Clangden (ac43,Displacement,Air Walking,Cat's Grace+5) Tuesday May 28th, 2002 10:57:51 AM
thanks Tericus for the heals and answers: no, im fine. Seeing that Gareth has already moved up without waiting on the rest, the dwarf mumbles "idiot" under his breath, then says: we better get ourselves up to the next step before Gareth gets himself killed.
Clangden then Air Walks up the right side, expecting the worst. On full defensive until the next round.
(dodge feat, expertise +5ac -5att, full defense)
Gareth Tuesday May 28th, 2002 11:13:31 AM
The warrior peeks over the stair and reports his findings into the ring.
Jus Tuesday May 28th, 2002 8:13:34 PM
Jus is getting a wee annoyed at Clangden's attitude towards Gareth, but is able to keep his comments in check.
"Thanks, Tericus," Jus says, "but somehow I haven't been damaged yet." After a brief pause, Jus continues, "I expect that will change on this next step, however."
Jus anxiously awaits Gareth's ascent, knowing the time on his glove's activation is ticking away.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29down 15? Wednesday May 29th, 2002 2:17:45 AM
Addinein waits for the scouting party to report. (ooc wouldn't the effect of the healing circle gotten everyone healed up, before it had run out, since the beastie was killed one round later? (books not on hand right now)
BOOM! (DMJK) 10d6(1+6+1+5+6+4+5+6+6+3)=43 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 9:25:23 AM
(healing circle is an instant effect, and not everyone was ready for Gareth to go yet)
Gareth pokes his head up over the ledge on the right and has just enough time to see several drow and a pair of statue looking things just before a fireball centered in the air several feet behind him. (43 dmg, refDC 20).
It's pretty clear that Gareth saw at least a wizard even before he says it into the ring. Clangden also having moved upward on the right is caught in the fireball with the scout. The heat of the fireball carries down the stairs and everyone else runs the risk of getting caught in the fiery explosion. (even-odd, odd you're in with Gareth and Clangden, even you're out)
It seems that one of the drow wizards can see invisible and understand common to boot.
The fast acting party, quickly discovers that there are 3 drow warriors evenly spaced out across the step, each is armed with a loaded hand crossbow and swords are slung within easy reach at the waist. All of the drow are too far away to be engaged with a full attack. You'll have to close first. Furthermore, they're set and ready. Closing in melee without provoking an attack of opportunity, which will undoubtedly come from a poisoned bolt, seems like an unlikely prospect.
Slightly behind them and evenly spaced are two statues of giant men in armor carrying swords. Not too far behind these stand a pair of wizards. A drow priestess holding a whip stands at the rear center.
The priestess is casting; the warriors are set for an attack. The wizard on the right is holding a wand. The wizard on the left is holding a staff and pointing it. The statues, well, they're just standing there, aren't they?
up to the anvil [----------P---------] [----W-----------W---] [-----S---------S----] [--F-------F-------F-] down --------------G------ -------------C------- -----JNAT--[FB]------
P=priestess W=Wizard S=Statue F=Fighter FB=Fireball burst point
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left, Invisible) d20+12=20 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 1:55:30 PM
The warrior dodges the blast and avoids some of the damage (Made save). "They are drow. 6 of them with 2 large statue looking warriors. 1 priestess, 2 casters, 3 fighters - all are currently visible. I'm going for the priestess. We're going to be poisoned for sure.". He flies up and over the creatures and lands behind the priestess - ignoring any attacks as he pulls out and gulps a potion of neutralize posion and he prepares to attack. He also looks for their insignia to see which house he has the pleasure of pissing off now.
Clangden (ac32, cat´s grace +5, air walking, displacement) d6=2 d20+31=50 d20+31=49 d10+22=28 d10+22=31 d10+22=23 d20+24=43 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 2:34:07 PM
(rolled a 2 for in out, am out) (rolled a natural 19 for initial attack, crit threat, folled up with a natural 18. hit ac50 with threat, followed up with an ac49)
coming up over the lip of the step to find a searing hot wind blow over him, but not enough to damage him, Clangden sees the battlefield before him, 3 drow warriors, 2 iron golems and 2 wizards and a priestess of the drow persuasion. having guarded the top world from the drow from below for many years, Clangden goes into Drow killing mode that he´s been trained for by Belgos, Drow fighter and friend from before. Clangden awaits the sting of the bolt that he knows is soon to be there, Clangden charges the fighter to the right.(+2att,-2ac, hence ac is a 32 instead of 34) swinging as hard as he can with his axe, Clangden scores a solid hit, doing 28+31+23=82 points of damage.
Tericus d20=4 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 8:42:40 PM
(rolled even, so im out) rising up to see what Gareth sees, Tericus casts Greater Command on all the drow warriors and spellcasters and yells out "FREEZE!!"(will save vs 19, effects up to 11 people, lasts for 11 turns but the victims get to save every round) then Tericus says "That should stop some of them, move to engage while you can!!"
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 24 down 35 d2=1 d20+10=21 d20+15=21 d4+1=5 Thursday May 30th, 2002 1:23:28 AM
Being surprised by the size of the fireball that comes his way, Addinein quickly dodges as much of the mass of flame that he can. (saved for 20 points damage.)(dont' have books for stoneskin effects? sorry)
Once his eyes clear, Addinein focuses on what's around him. Doing his best to deter the priestess. Addinein pulls his own forgotten hand crossbow and tries to interupt her casting. (AC 21, 5 points). (can't make 2nd attack so I'm hoping I can do short spell). Knowing he won't have time to reload, Addinein drops his crossbow and casts flare at the priestess. (DM approval needed. ;))
Stoneskin gives 10/+5 protection from blows, it won't stop spells. It will absorb 10 pts per caster lvl of whoever cast it. Can't shoot and cast without a haste spell or similar. -jk
Nonam d2=2 Thursday May 30th, 2002 10:24:44 AM
Nonam reactivates his boots of haste and takes up a position in the air about where the fireball went off. Then he surrounds himself with a globe of invulnerability.
(even=out)
Blasphemy! (DMJK) d20+23=27 d20+10=24 d20+23=39 d20+18=31 d20+13=21 d10+12=19 d100=16 d20+6=17 d20+7=27 d20+6=15 d20+12=17 d20+13=17 d20+14=20 d100=58 d20+24=36 d4=4 12d6(5+4+4+5+1+5+5+6+3+2+3+4)=47 6d6(1+4+4+5+2+5)=21 6d6(3+3+1+1+2+5)=15 6d6(6+2+4+3+4+4)=23 d20+11=30 d20+13=27 d20+13=23 Thursday May 30th, 2002 11:17:36 AM
Gareth, still invisible but smoking just a bit, flies to a spot just behind the priestess. The mages both seem to watch him, but the other four pay no attention to him. He is able to casually sip his potion and check out the house crest. He doesn't recognize it though. It's something like a black spider dancing on a sword though.
Clangden quickly decides that they are stone golems and not iron. Then he charges the fighter on the right. He fires his crossbow. The shot is spot on (AC27), but it bounces harmlessly off Clangden's armor. The dark warrior gasps in suprise as his stoneskin offers no protection from Clangden's wicked axe. He manages to survive the massive damage and has the presence of mind to drop the crossbow and quickdraw his admantium longsword. Suddenly he realizes who he's fighting and shouts out, "Calangeddian!" He panics a bit but is well trained enough to press the attack. He sneers as he thinks he gets one blow gets through Clangden's defenses, but he misjudges due to the displacement and chops air. (his AC=22)
Tericus casts his spell and shouts. The three casters ignore it. The fighter on Clangden and the one in the center also avoid the effects, but the one on the left stops cold.
Addinein fires at the priestess, but misses her. (her AC=23).
Nonam moves into position and casts his spell. He gets the spell off despite wearing the mithril chainshirt.
The drow on the left is frozen, but the one in the center acts quickly. He fires his bolt at Clangden. He has more luck than his fellow, and the bolt flies true (AC36). The dwarf feels like having a yawn, but otherwise doesn't seem to suffer from the poison. (used your fort save) The bolt itself is little more than an annoyance (4dmg).
The drow thinks of loading another bolt, but thinks better of it and draws his sword. He crouches low and waits for his turn with the dwarf.
Then the casters act.
The one on the right with the wand casts a chain lightning spell. First it hits Clangden. Then it arcs to Tericus, Addinein, and finally Nonam. (47 dmg Clangden, 21 to Tericus, and 15 to Addinein. reflex dc 20 for 1/2). When the bolt hits Nonam with his spell turning protection, the lightning rebounds at the caster. The drow manages to dodge out of the way, but still takes half the damage.
The other wizard casts dominate person on Clangden. He feels the drow attempting to control him, trying to make him attack the drow behind him... Addinein. (will dc 20 to negate)
Both of the casters have time to issue verbal commands to their stone golems. They call out in undercommon, "Kill the human warrior near Priestess Aro."
The priestess goes last. She spews out a foul venom of blasphemy. The words are pure evil, and those good of heart can't fathom the pure hatred. The whole party is dazed and unable to act the next round except in defense. She beats Nonam's and Jus' spell resistance, so they aren't able to act either. (no save allowed)
Then she cries out, "Ignore the dwarf! Kill the traitor and the blasphemous priest!"
The stone golems move toward Gareth, the drow spring into action, and the party stands confused.
(I should do their other round now, but this already took forever.)
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 6) [+13HP, 18Str]) d2=1 d20+14=16 d20+14=21 Thursday May 30th, 2002 3:57:57 PM
Having avoided the effects of the fireball (odd in, missed save, made with heropoint, no damage with ring of evasion), Jus rises to the middle-front lip of the drow step, ready to fight. The drow priestess' words catch him, however, spoiling any attack he was going to make.
Clangden (ac 38, Air Walking, Cat's Grace +5, Displacement) d20+13=33 d20+12=29 Thursday May 30th, 2002 4:27:12 PM
(reflex save of 33, take only 23 damage from the lightning bolt) (will save of 29, Addinein, you don't get killed this round by a crazy dwarf)
watches as the Drow in front of him wets himself, then attempts in vain to hit Clangden Clangden laughs in his face saying: is that the best the Drow has to offer today?
then stands there, looking dumbfounded for a round, perplexed look on his face.
(dodge feat +1ac, full defense +4ac)
Nonam (Stoneskin, Alterself, GMW, haste, spell turning, globe of invulnerability, permanencies, AC33) Thursday May 30th, 2002 7:30:07 PM
Nonam grins as the chain lightning richochets, but the grin disappears when the priestess casts her spell. He claps his hands over his ears and wishes that he had Gareth's shield.
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 110 pts left, Invisible) Thursday May 30th, 2002 8:50:43 PM
The warrior stands dazed, wondering if the priestess can actually see him. (Hey, can Stone Golems see invisible?). AC is currently 38 while invisible.
golems aren't affected by magic. more specifically they're immune to mind influencing magic like illusions. same reason undead can see invisible -jk
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 24 (w/dex) AC17 (if flat footed)down 42 d20+10=22 Friday May 31st, 2002 4:39:45 AM
Doing his best to dodge out of the way (success) of the chain lightening. Once the spell is finished he turns towards the drow group ready for action and can't figure out what to do next, stunned by the priestesses spell effect.
Tericus d20+6=25 Friday May 31st, 2002 6:50:02 AM
avoiding the worst of the lightning's effects(made save) Tericus rises in the air when he hears that he may be the next target."You cant hurt me!" Tericus yells at the drow, hoping to draw their fire upon himself
Mind Flayers?!? (DMJK) d20+23=30 d20+18=28 d20+13=30 d20+8=16 d20+24=31 d8+11=16 d20+21=30 d20+21=32 d20+21=34 d20+21=30 2d10(7+10)+12=29 d20+12=31 d20+12=16 12d6(1+4+4+1+2+1+4+4+2+3+5+4)=35 d4+6=8 d20+24=37 d20+24=27 d8=7 d8=5 d8=4 d8=5 d20+15=29 d100=51 d4=3 Friday May 31st, 2002 8:32:13 AM
The warrior on Clangden ignores the priestess' comand and tries to take Clangden down while he's dazed. As Clangden defends himself and parries aside the blows, the drow realizes he made a mistake.
The warrior on the left remains under the effects of Tericus' spell and remains frozen.
The one in the center follows his orders without question, and drawn to the taunting, he charges Tericus. Unable to make a full attack, he still lands one solid blow on the priest. (16 dmg)
The two golems seem to have no trouble seeing exactly where Gareth is, and they pound him. Each strikes once with each arm. The left arm of each is fashioned into a sword. The right holds a shield. Gareth quickly realizes it doesn't much matter as they attack with each. Only one blow lands on Gareth, the giant stone sword from the second one (AC34). The warrior decides that's something to be happy about (29dmg: 10 from stoneskin, 19 from Gareth).
The wizards cast new spells and seem quite happy to follow orders. The one on the right casts a cone of cold. The freezing blast catches Tericus, Addinein, Nonam, and Jus. He beats Nonam's spell resistance, but does not beat Jus'. (35 dmg, ref dc 19 for 1/2)
The other wizard, the one on the left, decides on a more potent spell. He casts and a spray of colors shoots from his hand. The prismatic spray washes over Jus, Nonam, Tericus, and Addinein and beats the SR of Jus and Nonam. Jus is struck by a violet beam and feels the magic of the spell attempting to send him to another plane (will dc 24 to negate). Nonam and Addinein are struck by a blue beam, and they feel the magic stiffen their joints attempting to turn him to stone (fort dc 24 to negate). Tericus is struck by a green beam and feels sickened as it tries to poison him (dead or fort dc 24 for 20pts).
The priestess is unable to see Gareth, but she has a pretty good idea where he is due to the golems swinging at him. She takes advantage of her last spell to move away. Suprisingly she ignores her own orders, advances on Clangden, and reaches out to touch him. Flanking him and not worrying about his armor she succeeds in the touch attack (AC29, +2 flank =AC31) and overcomes the displacement (51). She uses the touch attack to deliver harm on the mighty dwarf. Negative energy floods through him and robs him of nearly all his life energy (3 hp left).
(figuruing Cl's touch AC at 28. 38 -8 armor -2 shield =28.
The dwarves have been watching the combat up above with interest and hoots and shouts. They don't much care for the magic, but the color spell sure was neat. Then down below the air twists and opens sideways and a mindflayer steps out. Then his buddies step out. Suddenly the ground level is full of dwarves fighting the rubbery illithids. It seems the escapee left and brought back some of his friends. Addinein hears a voice in his mind, "Don't worry drow friends. We'll finish these pesky dwarves, and you get those on the steps."
Nonam (Stoneskin, Alterself, GMW, haste, spell turning, globe of invulnerability, permanencies, AC33 d20+11=20 d20+11=28 13d6(4+4+5+2+3+6+4+1+4+4+6+2+3)=48 6d6(2+1+2+6+3+2)=16 6d6(3+5+5+5+5+2)=25 6d6(1+3+6+4+3+6)=23 6d6(1+5+5+2+3+6)=22 6d6(3+6+6+4+4+3)=26 Friday May 31st, 2002 8:54:11 AM
Nonam refuses to be turned to stone (hero pt) and retaliates with spells of his own. Hasted, he casts two.
First, chain lightning. He starts with the wizard that already took damage from his own chain lightning (48), and then he arcs the bolt through the priestess (16), the other wizard (25), and the 3 warriors (23, 22, 26). Knowing it wouldn't do any good anyway. He leaves the golems to Gareth. (ref dc 25 for 1/2)
Next he casts polymorph other on the wizard that cast the prismatic spray and tries to turn that nasty caster into a cute little chicken... no make that a duck. The wizard grins again in anticipation. (fort dc 21 to negate)
Clangden (ac34/38,Displacement,Cat's Grace+5,Air Walking) d20+29=41 d20+24=44 d20+24=41 d20+19=31 d20+22=25 d20+22=34 d20+22=33 d20+22=41 d20+22=26 d10+22=28 d10+22=27 d10+22=30 d10+22=24 d10+22=31 Friday May 31st, 2002 11:22:10 AM
hearing the sound from below, Clangden spies the dwarves handling the mind flayers and turns his attention back to the Drow and Golems. with a look of crazed defiance, Clangden lets loose a volley of attacks on the bewildered Drow in front of him, striking 3 blows, one solidly.
(rolled 3 attacks, 1 was a threat, followed up with a crit, hit ac 41,44(crit),31) (damage 28(norm)+27+30+24(crit)+31=140)
spitting on the fallen Drow, Clangden then moves over to the other Drow still moving, letting out a battle roar to shake the ground on which this battle takes place.
(ac34=dodge feat and normal ac, ac38=mobility feat, +4 to ac when provoking attacks of opportunity)
[dmjk] Friday May 31st, 2002 12:15:51 PM
[Don't forget harm on Clangden. I've got your AC at 38, but the touch attack ignores the armor and shield bonus. That makes it 28 for a touch spell.
-your friendly neighborhood DM]
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 7) [+13HP, 18Str]) d20+7=20 d20+7=13 Friday May 31st, 2002 5:06:48 PM
Jus, untouched throughout the battles thus far, can't manage to dodge the beam leveled at him. The violet glow strikes him full in the chest, quickly growing to encompass his entire body.
Before he can vocalize his surprise, Jus is gone.
Failed save and save with hero point.
Tericus d20+6=23 d20+12=14 d20+12=17 Saturday June 1st, 2002 7:47:46 AM
"Ring the be...." Tericus says just as the green beam hits him full in the chest. he stands there for a moment the collapes to the floor(failed poision save and hero pt reroll)
Nonam d20+12=21 Saturday June 1st, 2002 9:30:37 AM
Nonam's CoC save. He takes half.
On another world (DMJK) Saturday June 1st, 2002 9:37:34 AM
Jus finds himself outside underneath a green sky. The vegetation is lush and purple. The air is harsh, and it's hard for him to breathe. His lungs burn a little every time he takes a breath. He sees an bipedal elephant-headed being walking up toward him. He thinks he remembers seeing one of these things before.
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 100 pts left, Invisible) d20+28=47 d20+23=41 d20+18=20 d20+28=46 d20+28=39 d10+14=20 d10+14=21 d10+14=17 d10+14=20 d10+14=18 Sunday June 2nd, 2002 11:55:15 PM
The warrior decides to remove all doubt as to his exact location and uses all 3 of his attacks on her. "Not to worry, you vile creature. Even if your evil brethren succeed in killing my friends, you will not witness it!". (Hits AC 47,[46],41,[39],20 for 20+[21]+17+[20]+18=96 DMG)
(Since he closed with her last time and she did not break contact giving Gareth an OOC, I'm assuming the Golems are on either side of her?)
She did break while Gareth was affected by the Blasphemy. She moved and cast on Clangden. The Blasphemy kept him from being able to attack. Thus the golems are on either side of Gareth, but she's over by Clangden. -jk
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29 (w/dex) (30 w/dodge) AC17 (if flat footed)down 59 d20+10=26 d20+8=15 d20+8=25 Monday June 3rd, 2002 7:51:48 AM
Feeling a little bit like a rag doll, Addinein dodges out of the way of the cones cold as it takes a bite out of his hide (saved for 1/2). Addinein then feels his joints start to stiffen up. As the mind flayer makes his pronouncement, Addinein wills himself not to stiffen up (hero point spent, re-rolled save). Using the Knights ring Addinein announce, "mind flayers are in the main chamber." Worried about the magic gone awry, Addinein no longer worries about the battle on the stair. He now focuses all of his attention at attaining the hammer, and ringing it on the anvil. (Full movement flying or running, in order to get there. Full defensive, using all expertise, dodge and all other abilities)
rush for the hammer (dmjk) d20+8=12 d20+13=20 d20+10=25 d20+7=11 d20+8=13 d20+7=21 d20+9=18 d20+6=21 d20+24=26 d20+14=34 d20+14=25 d4=2 d2=1 d20+21=31 d20+21=29 Monday June 3rd, 2002 9:58:48 AM
wiz 1 miss 48 priest resists wiz 2 save fights miss 23,22, 26
Nonam casts his spell. He catches the first wizard head on (48), and the drow crackles as he gets zapped. The priestess resists the spell competely (0), and the other wizard manages to dodge out of the way (12). The three fighters however, take the full damage (23,22,26).
The first drow wizard manages to live through Nonam's lightning but only barely. He appears to be in the same situation as Clangden, but he lacks the dwarf's tenacity and toughness. He collapses to the ground sobbing and attempting to soothe his lightning burns with some sort of ointment.
The fighter that Clangden already hit falls over dead from the lightning. The rest of the drow seem able to go on.
Nonam casts his polymorph spell. The wizard fails and is suddenly turned into a harmless little duck. It quacks and flaps its wings.
Clangden's battle sense clues him in that the warrior is dead, and he is able to focus his attack on the priestess instead. With her stoneskins offering no protection from his magic axe, she has but a moment to gasp before she falls from the massive damage.
Tericus falls dead, and the warrior he froze finally manages to move again.
Gareth finds that the priestess moved away while he was dazed by her spell and further that Clangden has already killed her. He has the presence of mind to attack one of the golems instead. His sword sparks as it strikes the stone golem, but it seems to have enough magic to harm the mindless construct.He hits twice for 37 dmg (AC 47,41 for 20&17 - golems are immune to crits). (golem AC=26)
Addinein races for the hammer and anvil.
None of the drow are in a fit state to cast spells, and one of the fighters is down. The other two fighters have their orders though. The one that had attacked Tericus spins and rushes the wounded Clangden. Before, he looked like the most able fighter in the bunch, but his attack on the dwarf is clumsy. And his sword cuts nothing but air.
The other drow warrior now unfrozen still holds his crossbow. He thinks of firing on Clangden, but decides to follow the last orders of the priestess and tries to take down the traitor. The bolt connects doing little real damage (2), but Addinein feels the familiar poison making him sleepy. (fort dc17) Unless he succumbs to the poison, he'll reach the hammer and anvil next round.
The drow wizard writhing on the floor calls out to his golem, "Protect me." The one that is undamaged leaves Gareth's side allowing an attack of opportunity, and it moves to stand over it's master.
The remaining golem attacks Gareth full force. He catches the blows on shield and armor, and the numb his arm a bit, but they don't actually do him any damage.
[obviously I changed Clangden and Gareth's posts. The attack changes seemed to be the most logical ones, but if you are disatisfied with the redirection of the attacks, let me know.]
--------------
another crude map --------H&A------------ [hammer and anvil] ---------A------------- [Addinein] up [------SG--------------] [StoneG, Gareth] [--------------SW------] [StoneG, wizard] [----------------------] [-----------FC---------] [fighter, Clangden] [----F-----------------] [fighter] down -------------Nonam
battle down below (DMJK) Monday June 3rd, 2002 10:00:27 AM
The fight with the dwarves and the mindflayers seems about even. The mindflayers can't stand up against the heavy dwarven axes, but many of the dwarves have been caught by an illithid's mindblast.
Even now though, new dwarves are responding to the alarm and are rushing into the chamber.
Nonam d4+1=5 4d4(4+3+3+1)+4=15 d100=69 d100=11 d100=17 d100=56 d20+18=31 d8+4=9 3d6(5+6+3)=14 Monday June 3rd, 2002 10:10:45 AM
The wizard cries out to Gareth, "It's orders were specifically to attack you. Fly up out of its reach, and Clangden can easily finish it off. It won't even attack him since its master can't speak." Nonam points at the duck and laughs.
Then he casts a magic missile. One bolt for the wounded drow wizard (5), and the other four for the fighter on Clangden (15).
He follows up with a shot from his crossbow on the newly unfrozen drow with the crossbow. Using the last of his poison bolts, he fires down at the drow. The wizard scores a hit (AC31, 9dmg) and hopes the poison does its work (DC20, or 14 con).
GOD WAR! [CDM Jerry] Monday June 3rd, 2002 10:39:19 AM
A distant rumble is heard, causing many to look in that direction to see if a storm is building. In the distance, a darkness seems to be creeping eastward. A few minutes later, huge clouds are building and soon cover the western sky, moving east. A devil of a storm is brewing, and people scramble through the streets to reach the safety of shelter before it begins.
The storm is filled with magic as the clouds, seemingly alive, build faster than any natural storm. Soon it fills the sky, looking below for victims to pound with hail and strike with...
LIGHTNING!
Suddenly, lightning strikes! Then again! Forking into thousands of bolts, the ground is assaulted. The smell of ozone is in the air. Shortly after comes the thunder! Deafeningly loud, it causes those yet outdoors to hold their ears in pain.
Then, beginning with the places where the lightning had struck, the ground begins to crack and open.
Distantly you hear a dark deep voice. The voice of a god.
"ATTACK!"
Godly war has begun. The Cult Gods have assaulted the Godlands.
The ground begins to shake and the volcanoes of the Scab rejoice in the conflict, belching fire and smoke that can be seen for hundreds of miles. Even the monstrous Shadow Mountain blows its top in tribute to the battle's ferocity. This explosion is heard and seen throughout the peninsula and as far west as Wemic Isle.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29 (w/dex) (30 w/dodge) AC17 (if flat footed)down 61 d20+8=17 Monday June 3rd, 2002 10:54:54 AM
Grunting in pain from the bolt, Addinein refuses to be deterred from his objective (made save). Sensing the start of the God war, Addinein shrugs off the intial message for analysis later as he concentrates on ringing the anvil.
Clangden (ac34,Displacement,Cat's Grace+5,Air Walking) d20+29=41 d20+24=40 d20+19=36 d20+19=38 d10+22=27 d10+22=25 d10+22=26 d10+22=26 d10+22=30 Monday June 3rd, 2002 11:50:51 AM
Crying out: Addinein, forget everything else, grab the hammer and strike the Anvil now before it's too late.
Deeply hurt and bleeding from his mouth, nose, ears and eyes, Clangden summons all the strength inside of him and lets loose a fury of blows on the Fighter before him, knowing that if the Hammer does not ring the Anvil within the next round, it won't matter anymore.
(landed 3 blows, the last being a crit) (Damage: 27(norm)+ 25(norm)+ 82(crit)= 134)
turning towards the last Drow warrior, Clangden uses his Dodge Feat against him.
Screaming in Dwarven: HOLD THE LINE
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 100 pts left) d20+26=39 d10+16=21 d20+26=41 d10+16=25 Monday June 3rd, 2002 12:10:02 PM
The warrior cuts into the stone construct as it turns away from him to stand over its master striking it soundly (Hit AC 39 for 21 DMG. The two attacks from last round each did 2 more DMG than posted for a total of 4 - sorry).
Hearing Nonam's advice - and seeing the old dwarf's condition, the warrior flies up and away from the creature. He closes with the last warrior that Clangden just closed with and lands keeping the drow fighter between him and the golem. He uses his attack on the fighter (Hit AC 41 for 25 DMG). If the fighter falls, he leaps into the air again before the golem closes.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 8) [+13HP, 18Str]) Monday June 3rd, 2002 3:05:21 PM
Jus starts to communicate through his rind, attempting to contact Joe of the Gold Dragons. Jus doesn't know much about Joe, but he remembers hearing that Joe has some sort of teleportation device that might be able to help.
However, even here, wherever "here" is, feels the gods war begin. Watching the elephantine creature, Jus decides to try to take advantage of the situation.
Hoping his hunch is right, Jus speaks, "I've met your kind before, in the Wold Serpent Inn." Jus pauses, watching the creature's eyes, hoping to see a glimmer of comprehension. There was only one other elephant-like creature Jus has seen before, and he certainly hopes this one isn't like what he met in Myth Drannor.
"We shared some stories.... The gods' war has begun in ferver. I am Jus of the Storm Dragons, in league with Valdor the Dragonstone of the Gold Dragons. We seek others willing to fight the destroyer of worlds, Marteaus." Again Jus stops, looking for understanding.
"Are your people willing to join us to stop the destruction of the planes?"
DMJK d20+21=34 2d10(4+2)+12=18 d20+23=32 d20+18=34 d20+13=19 d100=98 d8+12=17 d20+21=24 d20+21=28 2d10(4+3)+12=19 2d10(1+4)+12=17 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 8:36:44 AM
Nonam drops the wizard, and the golem commanded to protect him stops in place over the body. It doesn't show any sort of desire to punish Gareth any more.
Between Nonam's magic and Clangden's axe, the drow warrior on Clangden didn't have much of a chance and falls dead.
The golem that stayed to fight Gareth takes an attack of opportunity as the warrior flies away. It smacks him with its giant shield (AC 34, 18dmg - 10 from stoneskin, 8 from Gareth). Then it lumbers after him.
Gareth finds that the drow warrior was prepared for an attack. It drops its crossbow and does a quick draw. Gareth lands his blow, but the other fighter shrugs it away. The drow returns a full attack of its own despite being the only one of his companions living. The drow lands one hit on Gareth, and his heavily enchanted blade bites right through Gareth's stoneskin. (AC34, disp98, dmg 17 (all from Gareth)).
The golem after Gareth. The thing doesn't seem to care about the drow, and it smashes the thing between it and its prey. It strikes with arms, and the drow is knocked out of the way. He's still alive, but Gareth is once again concerned with the golem. He flies up and out of reach.
There is one active golem and a hurt warrior left. Addinein grabs hold of the hammer, but he is unable to move it.
--------------------------- Jus speaks to the elephanthead, and it replies in kind, "Phweeee, minuee dheee. Bhwut muof." It doesn't seem to be threatening him, and it has raised its gray 6 fingered hands up in a peaceful gesture.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29 (w/dex) (30 w/dodge) AC17 (if flat footed)down 61 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 8:50:35 AM
Realizing that the step must be defeated before the anvil can be rung. Addinein reminds those that are standing through the ring, "We must finish off the step before I can ring the anvil."
Addinein spends the round reloading his hand crossbow.
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 90 pts left) Tuesday June 4th, 2002 9:18:06 AM
The warrior smiles at the results of his maneuver. "OK Clangdon, finish off that warrior. I'll keep the big guy busy.". He moves again, this time behind the golem standing over the body of the now dead mage, hoping his adversary bowls it over too. He makes sure and stay out of its reach.
Clangden (ac34,Displacement,Cat's Grace+5,Air Walking) d20+29=30 d20+29=41 d20+10=27 d20+23=29 d10+32=42 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 10:37:33 AM
seeing Gareth turn on the Golem, leaving himself open for an attack from the last remaining Drow, Clangden rushes up and feints an attack. having his axe behind the unsuspecting Drow, Clangden pulls with all his might, attempting to trip the drow.
(rolled a 1 on the attempt to trip, used hero point to reroll, hitting ac41. followed up with a strength check of 27)
if successful, and the Drow warrior is on the ground, Clangden unleashes his devastating onslaught upon the doomed creature.
(uses power attack feat +10 to dam, -10 to attack, hitting ac 29) (Damage: 42)
(uses Mobility feat) Clangden then moves away from the fallen Drow at a distance of 10 feet. and awaits his reaction to the situation.
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 9) [+13HP, 18Str]) Tuesday June 4th, 2002 3:09:01 PM
Jus nods at the elephant, fairly sure he just gave a greeting. However, what sounded like "but no" makes Jus wonder what the elephant was referring to. Ignorning it for the moment, Jus continues.
"It is good to meet you, as well," Jus says. "Your kind was very polite when I last met them."
Turning the topic back to the war, Jus again asks, "Have your people found a way to fight the collapse of the planes?"
While Jus waits for a reply, he once again attempts to contact the Storm and Gold Dragons through his Ring of the Realm. This time he tries to relay his planar travel request to Valdor, and to see what the state of the battle is from Gareth and Nonam.
The First To Go [CDM Jerry] Tuesday June 4th, 2002 3:18:13 PM
Moments later, The sky lets loose with hail and rain. The Gods are at war and the whole Wold is feeling the repercussions thereof.
Those in cities notice explosions. One temple after after another implodes, signifying the death of a god.
The first to go is Teresalia, Goddess of Poetry and Song, followed closely by Mittiri, Goddess of Nature.
Then Raven, one of the Cult Gods, meets his ultimate doom.
Then the earth writhes again with a huge aftershock and the ground buckles. Portions of the land rise and fall as Ga'al is slain along with Pantheon.
Gareth (AC 34, Bull's Strength +5, Cat's Grace +4, Endurance +4, 50% Displaced, StoneSkin - 90 pts left) Tuesday June 4th, 2002 5:24:55 PM
The warrior maintains his focus and attempts to finish the job at hand. No need to worry about gods if he gets killed in the process. But still, he glances into the heavens, wondering if any of this is even needed. Maybe just stopping and waiting for the gods to finish their duel would be best. Of course, the baddies won't stop, so neither will he. He hardens his resolve to see this through.
Nonam [stoneskin, tenser's trans, haste, other stuff] 2d4(3+2)=5 2d4(3+2)=5 d20+18=28 d8+6=10 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 8:32:40 AM
Nonam casts Tenser's Transformation on himself and swoops down to land on one of the steps. He picks up a fallen drow's longsword and battles the golem. Nonam hits the golem with the big sword that he nearly as expertly as one of the group's fighters. (AC28,dmg 10)
[+5str, +5 dex, +5 fort, +6 bab]
DMJK Wednesday June 5th, 2002 8:37:24 AM
Clangden fells the drow. Addinein gets his crossbow reloaded. Gareth dances about, and Nonam engages the golem.
As more dwarves arive the tide turns against the mindflayers. They start to do their sideways disappearing trick again, and a voice echoes through everyone's thoughts, "We shall remember this."
One of the dwarves looks up and sees that blasted human wizard fighting a golem with a sword, Gareth dancing about out of reach, Clangden killing a drow, and Addinein about to ring the anvil. He cries out, "Look up there!" And suddenly all the dwarves are watching you again. All except for a few clerics tending the wounded that is.
Clangden (ac32,Displacement,Air Walking,Cat's Grace+5) d20+18=20 d20+18=30 d10+35=45 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 11:22:43 AM
seeing the crazed Wizard attempting to imitate a seasoned warrior against the Golem, and doing a mighty fine job of it, Clangden beams with pride as he joins his new comrade in the fray.
(dodge feat against the Golem) (charging Golem, +2att -2ac) (power attack feat, -13att +13dam) (hit ac20, rerolled with hero point, hit ac30) (Damage: 45)
charging the Golem, and attacking with the ferocity of a fat man at an all you can eat ice cream social, Clangden swoops in and strikes it with all his worth, hitting solidly, attempting to position himself between the Golem and the Wizard.
Shouting to Gareth and Nonam: GET UP THERE AND HELP ADDENEIN RING THE ANVIL....NOW!
Jus (Str+3; Con+4; Bow +3GMW; Stoneskin [10/+5; 70hp max]; AC:32+4[Haste]; AC in front w/ Shield: 39+4[Haste]; Divine Power (round 10) [+13HP, 18Str]) d20+7=10 Thursday June 6th, 2002 3:45:41 AM
Jus ignores the elephant as he attempts to grasp the magnitude of the events. His mind can't get a handle on the immensity of the god's deaths, so he stands dazed.
Addinein (BS+4)(CG+3)(ENd+2) Fly, Stoneskin (-18) AC 29 (w/dex) (30 w/dodge) AC17 (if flat footed)down 61 Thursday June 6th, 2002 8:10:43 AM
Keeping the crossbow ready, Addinein continues to try to ring the anvil. He keeps an eye out in order to see if there's anywhere that he can help.
Triumph? - DMJK Thursday June 6th, 2002 8:47:56 AM
Nonam and Clangden hack at the remaining golem as it chases Gareth around, and the ground heaves and trembles from the god war. They do a good bit of damage, but when Gareth leads it into the golem "protecting" the dead wizard. The second golem smashes the first to bits.
Then it's a simple matter of staying away from the golem that wants to protect the corpse of its wizard.
With all the foes dead or gone save for one inanimate construct, the hammer comes away in Addinein's hand. It seems much lighter than he anticipated. He swings, and it rings on the anvil.
The note is simple, crisp, and pure.
Those who have been fighting feel rested and content. Jus stands once again upon the steps, and Tericus rises, no longer under the effects of the poison. Wounds disappear. Fallen enemies disappear. Arrows and potions used reappear. Items like Nonam's drow sword disappear. Dwarves killed by mind flayers rise back up as the mind flayers were essentially from the stair challenge too. The whole thing makes Nonam wonder if the enemies defeated are alive and well and holding grudges. (hero points don't come back & spells aren't rememorized, everything else is in preStair status)
Everything is at it was before the stair except for a few things. The group has a new companion. You feel pride and accomplishment at having worked successfully as a team again, and the memories of what happened are there to remind you that it was all very real. The dwarves clap and cheer and welcome you as brothers as you come down. Their distrust from before seems completley gone. They especially seem to welcome Addinein as he was the one to ring the hammer and anvil. It seems that the next order of business they have planned is a feast.
All seems right in the world, but the war of the gods doesn't lurk too far off in anyone's mind. Especially for Tericus. When he rose back up, he noticed all too keenly that his goddess, Teressalia is gone.
Tericus Thursday June 6th, 2002 9:02:05 AM
"Wow, that was...." Tericus starts to say until he realizes that Teressalia is gone. gripping his chest, he falls to his kness and starts to breathe hard. "Whats...whats happened.....where is she...." he mutters through clenched teeth
Clangden Thursday June 6th, 2002 10:35:06 AM
moving to Tericus, Clangden places his hand on his shoulder and asks: what is wrong young friend? who is she that you ask for?
turning to the rest of the Storm Dragons, Clangden makes his formal introductions.
offering his hand to Gareth, Jus, Nonam, Tericus, and Addenein Clangden says: well met and well fought my new friends, I am Clangden Swiftaxe, defender of Children, protector of all who need it, and Guardian of Shanty Town. I am an old friend from a time ago of Valdor and heard through his words and through others that a group of Hero's were in need of others to rise up against the tide of evil. since I happened to be in town on business, I turned out to see exactly who and what you were, only to find Hero's I wished to be aquainted with. I do hope my arrival into your fight on the steps did not offend you, and if so I truly apologize. I wish to join you on your crusade and think my talents of combat and the knowledge of many years of life would be very valuable to you.
turning back to Tericus, Clangden pulls out a cup and a pitcher, and pours out a dark liquid into the cup and then hands it to Tericus saying: here young priest, take a drink of this, it will soothe your nerves and help clear your head.
Gareth d20+4=20 Thursday June 6th, 2002 11:10:50 AM
The warrior sighs in relief as the last of the enemies fall. He is further relieved when he sees all the dwarves restored that were drug into the fight. "So Clangden has come to fight with the Sorm Dragons. As was toasted in Gold Dragon Castle many moons ago I understand you were part of the Red Dragons and were also guarding the way to Menzo. I never thought I'd have chance to meet you. Well met!".
As he hears Tericus call for his fallen goddess he does his best to comfort him (Cha DC 20 - whew!). "I felt it too, my friend. She is gone. I'm sorry...". He does whatever he needs to do for him, ignoring all others. "You have saved my life too many times to count! I am here for you no matter what comes.".
Is This The End? [CDM Jerry] Thursday June 6th, 2002 12:08:08 PM
Quicker than most can discern, emotions wash over the Noble Races as god after god dies in holy battle!
Then it stops. Is this the end? Are there still Gods to protect the Wold? Has Marteaus defeated the Gods of Wold?
No, there is hope! Three temples remain.
Alemi. Marteaus. Gargul.
The aftershocks begin to subside, leaving behind groaning sound as if the Wold were trying to pull itself apart.
Nonam Friday June 7th, 2002 8:12:42 AM
Nonam feels some relief and chats with Clangden for a moment. Then the god war starts back up with a full fury, and Nonam feels the void.
Remembering how Domi's death affected Qualde, Nonam looks over at Tericus and puts a comforting hand on his shoulder. Trying to give the priest a new focus, the wizard says, "The Dark Lord did this to her, and, with Alemi's help, we will make him pay for it."
Those paying attention might notice that it's the first time Nonam has ever mentioned needing anything from any god.
DMJK Friday June 7th, 2002 8:27:19 AM
The dwarves' enthusiasm for a feast wanes somewhat as the god war plays out. Most stand in silence. A few are crying softly.
Tericus needs to make a will save DC 20 to keep it together.
After a few moments, King Melair II speaks to everyone in the arena. His voice booms, "The wizard speaks truthfully. Marteaus is to blame for all that has happened. This war in the heavens affects us too. The dark things of the earth feel they have license to rampage through the wold wherever they please. The balance of things is upset, but we'll all play a part in setting things right and destroying this Marteaus. But before that, we still have a reason for celebration in the Grand Hall. We have gained new brothers today, and they need a proper welcome. Tonight we celebrate our new brothers, and we celebrate our upcoming victory."
The dwarves don't suddenly become cheery, but they are possessed of a steely resolve to see this thing through and make things right. A few come up to guide the Storm Dragons to the meal.
As the other dwarves file out, Melair comes to check on Tericus, "Alemi's no replacement, lad, but he can offer comfort and strength. Of those few who are left, he best represents those things that your Lady loved." He silently guides Tericus and gets him moving toward the feast.
Tericus d20+12=14 Friday June 7th, 2002 9:06:31 AM
not reacting to anyone's offers of confort and help, Tericus continues to mutter "Shes gone.." as he's guided towards the feast. all of the sudden he throws Meilar off him, yelling "GET AWAY FROM ME!! JUST STAY AWAY!!!" then he runs off towards the nearest cavern(failed will save)
Gareth d20=12 Friday June 7th, 2002 9:36:43 AM
As his friend Tericus runs away he decides to not to follow. "Good King, if you could have him watched, I think that would be best.". He moves on with the others to feast. "So Nonam, talking about gods nowadays are we? Very unlike you to invoke their name in such a way!". :)
Clangden Friday June 7th, 2002 11:21:20 AM
Clangden follows Tericus, but at enough a distance so as not to cramp him.
a single Tear trickles down his face. seeing that only 2 temples remain, he doesn't consider Martues in the ratio.
(Clangden is following Tericus not to comfort him, that will take time. Clangden is following him to keep him out of trouble and to keep him from getting lost)
Addinein Friday June 7th, 2002 11:40:32 AM
Feeling the impact of the loss of the gods, and seeing the reactions all about him. Addinein can only wonder about his sister and his family.
Addinein enjoys the meal with the rest of everyone, but as might be expected he's considerably withdrawn.
Watching Gareth for guidance on Tericus, Addinein watches the concern wash over Gareth's face.
Jus Saturday June 8th, 2002 3:11:31 AM
Jus reorients himself, since he has suddenly appeared back on the stair. He swings around with his swords, looking for an enemy, and sees Addinein holding the anvil. Relaxing, he sheaths his swords.
Sadly, he sees another friend face the loss of their god. Following Tericus and Clangden, Jus wonders whether Qualde ran away from the stress. About to talk with Tericus thought the Dragon Ring, Jus decides it is better to keep silent, afraid Tericus will throw the ring aside if Jus does.
Nonam Monday June 10th, 2002 8:41:06 AM
Not wanting anyone else to hear him, Nonam speaks in a low voice to Gareth, "I still hold to the same beliefs, but it helped Qualde to shift her focus to another god. I figured the same would help Tericus."
A lost god - dmjk Monday June 10th, 2002 8:49:02 AM
As the rest head to the meal or attempt to comfort the priest, Tericus feels a burning pain in his heart. Everything that he has ever believed in is dead. Melair casts calm emotions on Tericus and attempts to soothe him. It doesn't help much, but it takes some of the sting away and helps the priest think.
Tericus has to make another will save DC 20 to hold on to his sanity.
Clangden Monday June 10th, 2002 10:39:40 AM
Clangden follows behind Tericus about 10 feet, far enough back to let him have his space but close enough to react if need be. Seeing Jus and Addinein following as well, he motions for them to give Tericus room too.
Gareth Monday June 10th, 2002 11:38:22 AM
The warrior sighs as several of the party follow his friend. "I know Nonam - especially now that it is known to us that the gods were once mortal as we. I think it better that we give him space and attend the banquet. At least the Dwarven King still has his god. Perhaps we can still make a difference in all this. Either way I think it best we go eat with them - even though all of us cannot. I'll take Tericus some food later. Although he won't eat it.". Gareth reluctantly withdraws and follows the dwarves to the feast.
Nonam Tuesday June 11th, 2002 8:10:29 AM
Nonam nods and says, "You go on ahead. I'll be along in a minute." The wizard stays to keep an eye on Tericus for a bit longer. Following Clangden's lead, he keeps his distance.
dmjk Tuesday June 11th, 2002 8:12:22 AM
[figure I need to wait for Tericus this time. Sam and I usually post about the same time, so I expect I'll be able to post a little later this morning. I probably just beat him today. -jk]
Tericus d20+12=16 Tuesday June 11th, 2002 8:59:24 AM
after running a ways, Tericus stops for a moment. chanting and waving his hands, he tries to cast a spell but nothing happens. screaming "NNOOOOOOO!!" the priest continues to run
Clangden Tuesday June 11th, 2002 12:41:21 PM
Seeing the priest still running wildly about, Clangden grabs a child playing in the streets and sends him to get a couple of priests to come settle Tericus down as best they can. Clangden still follows Tericus around.
DMJK Tuesday June 11th, 2002 1:41:37 PM
Tericus absolutely loses control and runs screaming through the dwarven halls. Clangden follows to make sure he stays safe, and the kids go after some more priests to help out.
Tericus' path somehow manages to bring him to the feast, and he bursts in screaming as most of the dwarves are setting down to the meal. Some start to cheer their brothers as the Storm Dragons come into the banquet hall. Others jump to their feet in alarm as they realize the priest is screaming about something.
Chaos.
Addinein Tuesday June 11th, 2002 2:01:03 PM
Addinein is at a loss for what to do to help Tericus. Not sure that even luck can help out here, Addinein hopes that the priests might be able to help out Tericus.
Gareth Tuesday June 11th, 2002 3:43:40 PM
The warrior rises as his friend bursts in, a bit shocked by it all. He rushes over to him and tries to calm him down. If he cannot, he detains him. "PLEASE, my friend! Calm yourself! We will live throught all this if we stay together!".
Jus Tuesday June 11th, 2002 7:55:46 PM
Angered at Clangden's presumption -- like he knows Tericus better than his friends -- Jus continues to follow his comrade to ensure he doesn't get in trouble.
When they finally enter the dining hall, Jus moves to a side wall and watches Gareth, interested to see how he handles things.
Tericus Wednesday June 12th, 2002 9:03:24 AM
Running into the banquet hall with his arms waving above his head, Tericus screams "SHES GONE!!! SHES GONE!!! BUT SHE CANT BEEEE!!" Then, ignoring Gareth and anyone else who tries to stop him, Tericus moves to a table and places his left hand on it. Staring at it for a second, he says calmly, "I know how to bring her back. I know what must be done." Then, before anyone can stop him, he draws his mace and starts smashing his left hand. "HEAL ME, TERESALIA, HEAL MEEEE!!" he screams as he repeatedly smashes his hand.
Gareth d20+8=28 Wednesday June 12th, 2002 9:12:51 AM
The warrior is horrified to see his powerful and loyal friend lose complete control. Fearing he may do more than just whack his hand, he tackles the crazed cleric and pins his arms to his sides in a bear hug (Str check DC 28). "We will fight this together, Tericus! I refuse to let you destroy yourself. Fight it, my friend! Fight it!" He does not release the cleric until he regains control. He looks to the Dwarven King - High Priest of Alemi - and exclaims, "Is there nothing you can do? Your god is still with us. Is he unable or unwilling to help us?"
Clangden Wednesday June 12th, 2002 10:48:27 AM
Ignoring Jus' look as if he would a nagging wife, Clangden rushes to help Gareth get control of Tericus so the priests can work their healing magic on him.
(add +2 to your roll to subdue Tericus, Gareth)
all the while, Clangden is trying to soothe the broken heart of the priest through words of reassurance. that all is not lost, that his God is not gone forever, that she will return to aid him.
Nonam Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:06:17 AM
Nonam casts telekinesis and tries to rip the mace out of Tericus' hand.
Dwarven Priests (DMJK) Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:20:01 AM
Melair and some of his underlings start casting hold person on Tericus until one of the spells finally takes effect.
Then they administer some sort of sleeping potion to his still form, and Tericus rests. Another heals the priest's hand. Tericus' dreams are turbulent, but he currently poses no threats.
Melair immediately tries to soothe the other Storm Dragons, "We had many priests of Domi in our halls, and they came down with similar conditions. We can treat your friend, if you will trust us. I assure you, we all think of him as a brother now and will not harm him, but we must put him in seclusion for a time. He will return to rationality soon, but how soon depends on his strength and his past devotion. In the meantime let us eat. Then we will speak of the Diary."
A group of dwarven clerics of Alemi carefully take Tericus down a hallway and out of sight. Melair politely prohibits anyone else from following. The other dwarves in the banquet hall settle down to eat. First in silence, then some mutters, but soon they are in celebration. The happiness is infectious.
-----------------
Tericus wakes in some sort of monastic place. All of his items have been removed, and he has only a robe to wear. A group of kindly priests of Alemi sit with him and try to calm him down.
Tericus make Will saves starting with DC18. Then subtract 1 each time til you make it. ie. DC17, DC16, etc. However many rolls it takes is how many days it takes to come to your senses. Then you have to decide how to change the character. Options: you can serve Alemi, Gargul, Marteaus, the memory of Teresallia. You can become a generic cleric of good. Or you can cease being a cleric all together.
------------------ note: Kent has put out a woldwide call for character sheets again. I have an up to date one for Clangden, but if everyone else could email me a current sheet in the next couple of days, that would be stupendous.
Clangden Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:50:53 AM
After seeing that Tericus is well tended to, Clangden accepts the King's offer of a meal. He goes to the table with a bowl of water, cleans himself up then goes and sits at one of the tables, and eats and drinks like it has been days since his last meal.
Gareth Wednesday June 12th, 2002 3:59:59 PM
The warrior looks to Melair with a look of both gratitude and one that says clearly what his troubled friend means to him and that he is indeed asking a lot for him to leave Tericus in his care. He regains his composure and smiles. "No matter what happens next, we most certainly must eat!". The warrior delves wholeheartedly into the feast, not having eaten well for several days. He enjoys the camaraderie of the dwarves, and drinks with them to a point... When the time id right, his focus turns toward the king and the mission at hand. "So tell us about this diary. Where it is and how it can be attained. If things continue, we may find ourselves trying to find someone to promote to godhood as well as trying to stop the evil one from succeeding!".
Addinein Thursday June 13th, 2002 1:32:29 AM
As Addinein eats with the Dwarves, he's unsure how to act. Having not to many Dwarven friends, and nothing but Drow rumors to go on Addinein appears a little unnerved about the proceedings.
Tericus d20+12=13 d20+12=17 Thursday June 13th, 2002 8:53:23 AM
(it takes Tericus 2 days to recover his mind) after two days pass, Tericus begins to come to his senses. after recovering a bit, Tericus says "I cant devote myself to another. Teresallia was and still is my life. You mentioned I can serve her memory. How do I do that?"
Tericus d20+12=13 d20+12=17 Thursday June 13th, 2002 8:53:40 AM
(it takes Tericus 2 days to recover his mind) after two days pass, Tericus begins to come to his senses. after recovering a bit, Tericus says "I cant devote myself to another. Teresallia was and still is my life. You mentioned I can serve her memory. How do I do that?"
Clangden Thursday June 13th, 2002 12:26:53 PM
goes and sits nearer to the King and Gareth, right beside Addenein. Seeing Add's perplexed look as to how to act, Clangden offers this advice: eat hearty, use utensils or not, its an option, have fun, drink well and tell lots of jokes. Us dwarves are losing their biased to Dark Elves and Elves in particular. there are some old fuddy duddys still, but they are learning.
thinking about something, Clangden turns to Addenein, and shoves his chicken juiced hand into his, saying: where are my manners, i have not properly introduced myself, I am Clangden Swiftaxe, guardian to Menzo, defender of the Children, and all around nice guy (laughs). You fought well today young master, and i look forward to many more days of rousing adventure with you and your friends, if they will have me that is.
with that said, Clangden smiles at Addenein for a few seconds, then turns to listen to the King and Gareth.
Jus Thursday June 13th, 2002 2:07:20 PM
Jus eats heartily for an elf. He hasn't had a real meal in ages and feels half starved. He wrinkles his nose at a few of the more unseemly dwarven jokes, but otherwise has a splendid time with his friends.
Won't this make for an interesting story for his family. An elf becomming a dwarf; Jus chuckles at how he expects them to react.
Nonam Thursday June 13th, 2002 4:20:38 PM
Seeing Tericus in good hands, Nonam sets down for the meal. He watches all the dwarves cram food down their gullets for a few minutes, and it takes a few minutes for him to get up the courage to eat. He drinks water and has one plate of food.
DMJK Thursday June 13th, 2002 4:53:44 PM
Working with the priests of Alemi, Tericus works through his anguish. The dwarves teach him that while Teressalia may be gone, the things that she stood for still remain. Honoring her precepts and keeping the devotion keeps Tericus from missing her quite as badly, and he is soon able to sing again. Things are different, but hope is alive. --------------------
Melair puts off talk of the diary til after dinner. Then he brings the other Storm Dragons and Clangden to his own chambers. It's filled with books, Nonam and Jus note that most of them are in dwarven but there are quite a few in elven and the common human tongue. Most of them seem to be religious and philosophical works.
Melair manages to scrounge up enough chairs that everyone can sit down. The collection is quite a hodge podge, but every chair is a fine piece of dwarven craftsmanship. They're all built for dwarves, but they are comfortable enough.
As you sit, Melair lights up a pipe and tells about the diary. "There were once a small number of priests and philosophers who held that the gods as we know them were once mortal. There wasn't a lot of evidence to go on as the current gods have reigned longer than even the oldest living elves can remember. But there was enough that we were able to study it. I won't go into many details for this isn't the time, but you all know of the cult diety Pantheon. He is the manifestation of the past gods of Wold. Tracking down his legend and searching through old archives like the ones in Myth Drannor, we were able to slowly make a case.
About the time, our evidence was sufficient to prove the case, the Dark Lord began to stir. While I regret it in the extreme, Marteaus' war has proven that gods are fallible, and that they can fall and be killed...."
Melair explains the situation at some length and reasons that if Alemi once ascended to godhood and killed the old gods that he might have written about it. If he did, 1 of 2 things could be true. That knowledge might explain how to kill Marteaus or it might explain the path Marteaus is following to kill the Gods of Wold. Either bit of information could prove useful. He talks on about the reasons he believes that Alemi wrote down such information for some time, but he finally comes to the part that concerns the Storm Dragons, "So Father Moonsong, the elf I was telling you about, discovered passages in some archives in Myth Drannor that were reported to be the mortal writings of Alemi himself. The documents were incomplete, and Ignacio... er Father Moonsong started trying to track down the source. He found a number of references to a complete mortal diary written by Alemi. He searched for decades to discover the diary and found little more than snippets, translations, and numerous quotes. He assembled several pages worth, quite enough to convince him of the book's existence, but he hasn't yet found the book. Last time I heard from him was about 3 weeks ago. He was working in Myth Drannor and thought that he was close to answer. He believed taht it was somewhere in the city of old Elenna, but he had to find out where."
"Interestingly enough, just a few days ago, Lankhmahr disappeared or flew away, reports as to what happened exactly vary. I don't know if all of you heard that bit of news or not. As many of you may know, Lankmahr was on top of old Elenna. I thought this was an omen of sorts and sent a group of scouts to investigate. They just got back before you arrived. Lankhmahr is indeed gone. There is very little left, but they did find some tunnels and passages that go down into the earth. They also reported that the Dark Lord had agents there sifting through things. I would suggest that you either go find Ignacio Moonsong in Myth Drannor or head straight to old Elenna. You should find the next piece of the puzzle there."
He claps his hands together and says he'll let you all talk it over. -------------------------
The group has ample opportunity to meet with Melair and the two scouts over the next couple of days. There is little in the way of new information that anyone is able to provide, but the scouts do have several maps that they share. They're able to describe the area in enough detail that Nonam thinks he could teleport there. In the meantime, everyone is able to relax somewhat though Gareth champs at the bit wanting to get off and be about business. He found a bit of relief by getting to join a dwarven giant hunting party the next morning. The hunt was successful, and Gareth learned a bit about dwarven tactics. Clangden had the opportunity to set his affairs in order, so that he could help these youngsters finish the job. Jus had a package of arrows delivered to him from the Catacombs. The delivery boy was quite put out that Jus has been moving around without leaving forwarding addresses. Addinein finds that the Stair challenge went a long way toward gaining him acceptance amongst the dwarves. He notes a few sideways looks, but by and large the dwarves are much friendlier than humans in either Plateau or Floating City. Nonam though finds very little to do underground until he watches the dwarven weaponsmiths at work. Certainly there is some magic at work in the dwarven forges even if the dwarves don't realize it themselves. He doesn't have enough time to study it properly though.
----------------------- After two days of waiting, Tericus rejoins the group, and stories are exchanged.
Gareth Thursday June 13th, 2002 6:51:13 PM
Gareth asks around and sees if he can pick up a compound long bow - to take advantage of his strength, and some new arrows - preferrably masterwork. If so he buys them.
After warmly greeting his friend back, the warrior sits with his friends abd gets straight to business. "So which is it? Do we go straight to the old city blindly, hoping to find a way in, or do we go find the priest. Seems to me that we wouldn't be any better off than the Dark Lord's guys if we don't get more info. Maybe this Moonson guy can tell us where exactly, or how to recognizr the location?".
Tericus Friday June 14th, 2002 6:13:42 AM
his head hanging a bit low, Tericus says "Im not sure how useful I will be, but I came this far and lost so much, I want to see it to the end. Lets gather what information we can and then head out."
Nonam Friday June 14th, 2002 10:37:18 AM
Nonam claps Tericus on the back and gives him a quick tour of things in the dwarven halls that the cleric hasn't managed to see in his seclusion. Then he prepares to set out, replenishing food stores, buying some crossbow bolts, and such.
Gifts - DMJK Friday June 14th, 2002 10:52:26 AM
The dwarves freely give out arrows or bolts, 20 MW to everyone that wants some. They have other things available for purchase. The dwarven priests give Tericus 3 cure serious scrolls and have others that he can buy.
Everyone can buy what they like in the catacombs and say that it came in at this point.
After everyone has had a chance to reunite with Tericus, Melair calls you back to his study. "First of all, I have news. Ignacio spoke to me in a dream last night. He says the diary was under the holy tree in old Elenna. It isn't much. He has little idea what it means, but he doesn't know much else. So I would suggest going to look for the tree, but who knows if the tree would still be there?"
"Second, I have gifts." He opens a fine wooden box that is filled with bands of mithril. They are armbands shaped like dragons. Lightning shoots from the mouth and trails out of the eyeholes. The craftsmanship is simple, yet exquisite. He takes them all out, except for one that he leaves in the box. He gives everyone a dragon except for Clangden explaining, "I thought it would be presumptuous of me to count Clangden in your number already just because I think he deserves it."
He hands the box to Addinein, "Anvilringer, when Clangden Swiftaxe is a Storm Dragon, you should give him his gift from the dwarves. Like all the dwarves, he's your brother already, but I'll leave it to you to decide when he has your friendship as well."
Gareth Friday June 14th, 2002 11:20:04 AM
Hearing Tericus speak he smiles in relief. "I am glad to hear you are coming. Somehow I doubt you will lack effectiveness. You have always been there - a fact for which I am VERY greatful.
The warrior examines the bracers closely. "They are beautiful indeed! I've never seen their equal. We are deeply honored.".
As the king completes his comments on his dream he smiles. "Then it's settled. We head the to Old City straightaway and look for this 'holy tree'. Is there any way you casters can teleport us to the tree by name only?".
As for Clangden being a Storm Dragon: I am not sure he would want to be known as one since he already wears the title of Red Dragon - or friend of the Gold Dragons. If nothing else, he is at the very least our friend and is MORE than welcome to join us on our quest. We have a ring we wear to communicate with each other - (Gareth looks to see if Clangen has a 'Red Dragon' ring). Clangden, you are welcome to it if you need it.".
The warrior tries on his bracers if it's appropriate. "I've never worn Dwarven Mithril before. Can you tell me about these?".
The warrior picks up a composite long bow and leaves his old one with the dwarves for safekeeping, his intention to retrieve it and mount it on the wall in his home.
Jus Friday June 14th, 2002 1:14:20 PM
Jus barely waits until Gareth is done shaking Tericus' hand when he gives Tericus a big hug.
"I'm so glad you're still with us," Jus begins, unsure what to say. "And I agree with Gareth [for once]," he adds with a smile. "I have no doubt that you'll contribute greatly to our quest. After all, you're a Storm Dragon."
Accepting the dwarven gift, Jus wonders about its significance. Will other dwarves recognize them as brethren because of these? Slipping his on, he realizes they have some magic as the dragon resizes itself to Jus' arm.
Jus restocks a few items, preparing for their travels.
Clangden Friday June 14th, 2002 1:50:45 PM
seeing Gareth look at his hand, Clangden shows his empty fingers.
No, I do not wear any ring of any dragon group. I may have been aquainted with the Red Dragons once, and yes, am friends with a few of the Golds but as for being officially aligned with a particular dragon group, I am not. I have served the land as protector, and diplomat for many years, have sat in council with the dwarves and have adventured with many before the dragon groups became so well known. I look forward to going with you to Old Elenna to search for this diary, my resolve to thwart Martues is high. I realize we have heard stories about each other but until today have just met, and I thank you for allowing me the honor of adventuring with another fine group of souls and if down the road you feel I would be a asset to the Storm Dragons and wish to crown my head with that title, then so be it.
You all have history with each other, I am but a new face in an old body and have learned that even reknowned hero's dont fit into every adventuring group. All I ask is that if I sound gruff, or am too pushy, instead of making snide remarks behind my back or gossip about me, (looking at Jus) to please, come talk to me. Communication is the key to all good groups.
Good King Melair, are these bands of mithril just insignias as to show who and what they are or do these bands offer something else?
For what it's worth, while using him as an NPC, Jerry has had Clangden contact the GDs through their rings before. -jk
Tericus Saturday June 15th, 2002 9:18:34 AM
considerably cheered up by his friend's comments, Tericus smiles for the first time in 3 days. "Thanks everyone. Your support means the world to me." then taking the bracer and putting it on his wrist, Tericus says "It looks like it belongs."(he took the scrolls too)
Nonam Saturday June 15th, 2002 10:50:57 AM
Nonam grins, "I think that perhaps I will soon have two favorite weapons, Gareth and Clangden." Then the wizard thanks Melair and fiddles with the armband a bit trying to figure out how to put it on over his robe. While he works with it, he uses his detect magic ability to check it out.
armbands - dmjk Saturday June 15th, 2002 10:57:36 AM
Nonam turns up nothing with his detect magic, and Melair answers Clangden about the same time, "Just a bit of dwarven craftsmanship to remind everyone of your brothers. No supernatural hoodoo or nothin'."
Tericus finds that the band is designed to be worn over the upper arm instead of down by the wrist. This keeps them from interfering with anyone's bracers. Nonam's does indeed fit over his robe, just as everyone else is able to slide them over clothing.
Addinien Sunday June 16th, 2002 6:04:43 PM
Accepting the box Addinein comments, "I feel I am still too young with this group to make that decision. But I will hold on to this box until we are agreed."
(ooc sorry about missed posted. it has been a LONG weekend)
Tericus Monday June 17th, 2002 8:51:36 AM
"Well, whats our next move?" Tericus asks as he adjusts his bracer
Gareth Monday June 17th, 2002 9:49:56 AM
"Sounds like we go find this tree in Elenna. No reason to go back and deal with all that mess in Myth Drannor if there is nothing more to be gained. I expect we can go back there some time if we want to later.".
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