Race to the Tree - dm deh Monday June 17th, 2002 11:13:15 AM
Having decided to go straight to Old Elenna, the dwarves use their windwalk ability to move you straight to the outskirts of Old Elenna - so you can save your magic. They move you to a secured and hidden cave from which they have clearly been doing survelance work for some time. From there you can see the expanse of the ruins from end to end.
The landscape surrounding you looks like it always has (for those who have been to the area or seen paintings) - landmarks, forests, and the like - except now there is this hole in the earth where Lankhmar once stood. The city - or what's left of it, is riddled with rubble. You see many collapsed buildings and temples. Very little remains standing. A few walls and such, maybe one or 2 buildings near the outskirts. There are mounds of dirt, pits and ravines, much debris, and many items you would expect to find at an archaelogical dig (Pot shards, metal items, etc). Amazingly, the site seems in far better shape than what you would expect to see after having many 1000's of tons of city sitting on top of it for so long, but it is ruined - just like the dwarves reported.
The day is early and there is much activity in the area as creatures in the service of the Dark Lord are combing the city. Mostly they are orcs, goblins, and the like. You see no significant threats other than about a dozen Fire Giants at a command post at the perimeter buildings. They seem to be in charge of the groups, dishing out orders at regular intervals and killing a few of the lesser beings from time to time. Occasionally, you see a subterrainian creature pop out and the companies kill it usually without too much loss of life - but the dwarves tell you that many things have popped out and eaten a few goblins or orcs and then gone back into hiding.
There is no real organization to the teams. You get the impression that they are not in a hurry, and are simply securing the site for further study at a later time. It's clear they haven't been here long enough to do too much damage to the site yet.
There is however one thing that stands out about the area, and there are quite a few teams around this spot. In the center city area there is a HUGE stubby tree. It is a gnarled and ancient thing has the look of something thousands of years old. The trunk is maybe 30' to 40' thick and it stands only 80 to 90 feet high. It doesn't have many branches and few leaves for something so massive. Many misshapen bumps and twists litter it from top to bottom. Several of the goblins have climbed it and there are the charred remains of many of them in the area, as if attacked by something. As you watch an orc runs up to the thing and hacks at it with a great axe. What appears to be electricity - or simply raw power - blasts into the thing and it is fried where it stands turning to ash in just an instant. The ones who were climbing it jump off screaming at the guy as he approaches and gets blasted. Many of the jumpers don't get clear in time and are also disintigrated. The tree does not look damaged where the huge creature struck.
One of the dwarven agents speaks to you and the clerics. "That thing just appeared outta thin air some time durin' the night. Those idiots down there've been doing stuff like that all day and the thing just frys'em up instantly. The orcs are making the goblins do most of it. I think that the giants have sent for some mages or somethin' so if yer goin' in you'd better make it snappy. We'll be pullin' out soon too if that happens. Now that they've discovered that there's som'pin here I'll wager the big guns'll be showin' up real soon. There are a bunch of tunnels and pits around that tree too. A whole bunch of those teams have gone in'em and none have come out. I like orcs and goblins, at this rate they'll all have killed themselves in 2 days!".
Even though there is no guarantee, it's a pretty sure bet that you are looking at the tree you were told to find. Could it really be this easy? The dwarven agents direct your attention to a path they have been following in and out of the ruins since they arrived. It looks to you that you can get close to the tree with virtually 100% cover. With most of the teams in other parts of the city, and the attention in the center on the huge monolith that has risen, nobody will likely see you even if you were to stroll along the path openly.
As you begin preparations, a group of dwarven agents burst from the path and race into the cave. Among them are a few clerics, one weeps openly as if overcome by sheer joy. He speaks excitedly after he regains some composure. "It's there! It's there I tell you! Alemi's Temple! I seen it with me own eyes! It's damaged as you would expect, but it still stands under all that rubble! Those yahoos haven't found it yet! They've walked right by it a dozen times at least! We must preserve it! That tree - it's good and pure! Nothing evil can hurt it and those evil grunts take damage just going near it! The only reason they climb it is beacuse they will be killed by their commanders if they don't! I don't think those guys down there have any idea what they are faced with!...".
The conversations go on, agents from base sharing info with the field operatives and vice versa, but you get the jist of it. The Clerics of alemi conclude that if that diary is anywhere it is probably in the temple. And for now at least, the temple has not been discovered. Another team of dwarves comes in from some where above the cave area. "They're comin'. There's a ton of'em maybe half a days march away. The signalers gave us the sign from out on the plains. I'd imagine they're dead now... We'd best be gettin' clear of this place.".
If your going to do something, it better be quick. The dwarves instantly prepare to withdraw from the area, not wanting to end up as a meal for some ogre.
Clangden Monday June 17th, 2002 2:16:21 PM
well, it seems to me that we don't have any other choice but to go in to the temple now before it's too late.
Clangden readies his equipment and waits for Gareth's decision.
Tericus Monday June 17th, 2002 6:17:43 PM
"Yeah, I think we have to go down there."
Addinein Tuesday June 18th, 2002 4:09:18 AM
"We just need to do final prepartations and get done with this. Shall we rejouvenate our spells again?"
DM Note - dm deh Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:14:58 AM
For the sake of time lets assume there was a day break before we left. Everyone is prepared. Also, I think the Dwarven Stair gave them back.
Gareth Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:16:54 AM
The warrior looks to Jus and Nonam to make sure they are ready. If so he says "Well, I'd rather fight 500 orcs, goblins, and Fire giants than 5,000 plus their more powerful allies. Let's go.".
Clangden Tuesday June 18th, 2002 11:46:02 AM
"Yes, let's redo spells on people. I know I could go for a stoneskin if someone has one available."
Clangden waits til everyone is ready, then takes up rear guard.
Gareth Tuesday June 18th, 2002 12:31:49 PM
"Any mages care to share some spells?".
Follow the Rubble Filled Road... dm deh Tuesday June 18th, 2002 5:37:16 PM
When the group is ready, it is lead down the path into the ruined city. Nonam sees many things he could see himself studying for a long time. Inscriptions, artifacts of old, hints of libraries with forgotten tomes of history and magic. Mostly its all just rubble.
As you go through the tunneled out road, you catch glimpses of the looters sifting through anything that looks interesting in a very rough and brutish way. It is clear that once the army gets in they will probably destroy everything and there will be nothing left to study. Nobody notices your passage into the area.
After about 2 hours you make your way near the temple area. There is no cover from where you are to the entrance - or where the dwarves point it out to you. "That's it folks. We can't take you any farther. We'd appreciate you waiting about 15 minutes before making a break over there. We'd like to get clear of you in case you are discovered. Also, when you leave we won't be in the cave any more and we will have trapped it in case it is discovered. Don't go back that way.". The dwarves leave you and head back the way you came.
There is about 150 feet of open space between you and the opening. It looks like a tunnel made by collapsed buildings overground. You can't really see into it but the dwarves tell you it goes back a long way and that there is an underground tunnel and cavern complex that still stands. The temple entrance is above ground on back into it a ways but it drops into the earth after that. The temple seems to have held the weight of the city above it but it sunk into the ground in the process.
Tericus Wednesday June 19th, 2002 8:28:54 AM
"I wonder what's down there." Tericus says as he pulls out his mace
Nonam (invisible) Wednesday June 19th, 2002 9:58:14 AM
Making sure to memorize an extra stoneskin for Clangden and to recast his contingency spell before leaving the dwarven halls, Nonam is prepared for a bit of exploring. He puts a stoneskin on Gareth, Clangden, Addinein, and Tericus. (10/+5, 130 pts)
Then he says, "I memorized a lot of invisibility spells when I heard we would be sneaking about. Try not waste it by killing something that doesn't need killing today." Then he casts invisibility on himself, Clangden, Addinein, and Tericus.
Gareth (Invisible, Stoneskin - +5/130) Wednesday June 19th, 2002 10:12:01 AM
The warrior accepts Nonam's spell with a nod of thanks. He then activates his invisibility ring. "Doesn't look to me it will be too difficult to get in. I would think we can get in, find the book, and teleoprt out. Then we don't have to wade back through these guys. Although, I'd love to kill a few just for good measure... I'll not go silent so we can hear each other unless some of these yahoos get close.". Once everyone is ready, Gareth leads in.
Clangden (Invisibility, Stoneskin 10/+5) d20=2 d20+17=37 Wednesday June 19th, 2002 11:21:10 AM
Clangden too thanks Nonam for the Invisibilty and Stoneskin.
After Nonam is done, Clangden goes on full alert status, looking for anything more out of the ordinary or for anyone shadowing them or setting up an ambush.
(spot check of 37, nat. 20)
The Approach - DM DEH Wednesday June 19th, 2002 12:18:51 PM
As you move toward the opening (I'm assuming Jus goes invisible too), nobody seems to be paying you much heed. Clangden and anyone else looking finds no sign of an ambush. The noise level in the area is sufficient to cover any abberant sounds as you travel over the scree strewn path. Before you make it into the opening, shouts go up from the perimeter of the city. You realize from what they are saying that the fire giants have detected the army approaching and that they were unprepared for such a large response from headquarters about the tree. Immediately, all the groups of goblins and orcs scramble to get into formation and return to the post at the edge of the city - apparently the giants are getting organized fast.
As you look back from the entrance, you see everyone filtering out of the immediate area with only a handful of sentries left - all of whom are looking to the departing groups. You probably could have walked over to the cavern singing bar songs.
The tunnel is dim - but not overly so. Sunlight filters in from cracks in the rubble. The ceiling looks stable enough. If it supported a city above it for centuries then then it should probably hold just fine. You notice that the height of the ceiling rises and falls as you walk. Infravision or torches are not needed.
In front of you lies what is a better preserved city than above on the surface. You see many building fronts - damaged and clearly not suitable for restoration - that have runes and symbols on them. Occasionally a wave of white light runs over them in no particular sequence. It is clear that there is magic here. As you go deeper you find several holes opening into black abyses you cannot see the bottom of. At a couple of them you detect a presence of - something. But it never shows itself (or themselves). You also find the eaten remains of orcs and goblins. Your guess is that there are openings to the underdark here and that things are coming up to feast. These are clearly not the way to the temple.
After about 2 hours of careful hiking (not very far distancewise), you notice that the ceiling is rising higher and higher. You recall from your look at the outside of the city that there was a rise in the rubble somewhere near the large tree. This is probably where you are. Coming around a bend you discover what you've been looking for. The Temple of Alemi stands in this place. The rubble has fallen on the temple but it apparently bore the weight without being crushed as with all the surrounding buildings. Tree roots can be seen through the rubble in the ceiling. Your breath is taken away as you view this magnificent structure standing maybe 300 feet high. There are ancient runes all over the front of it that are different than anything you've seen. Tericus remembers a vague familiarity to them. Perhaps something he studied in an "Undecipherable Ancient Runes" class. It is also clear that this place is warded and protected. Power washes over you and becomes stronger as you approach. You get the distinct impression that nothing hostile could get by it.
Jus Wednesday June 19th, 2002 7:31:41 PM
Jus, finished casting many of his prepatory spells, heads in with the rest of the party. He is amazed by the magic in this area, and has to be pulled onward several times as he stops to examine something interesting.
When they reach the temple, Jus stands there, looking at its grandeur. "Tericus, would you like the honors?" Jus whispers, guesturing towards the temple.
Addinein (Invisibility, Stoneskin 10/+5) Thursday June 20th, 2002 4:31:58 AM
Looking on with a little awe at the temple of Alemi Addinein takes time to observe the runes just to note what they look like.
Tericus(stoneskin, Invisible) Thursday June 20th, 2002 8:49:06 AM
feeling the soothing aura of the place, Tericus moves to enter the temple, though he keeps and eye out for ambushes
Gareth (Invisible, Sonteskin - 130) Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:24:11 AM
The warrior follows Tericus in a bit concerned to let another go first, but feeling it most appropriate. He follows closely, prepared to jump in front of him in a moments notice. "Be careful my friend.".
Nonam (invisible) Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:28:38 AM
Nonam makes use of that permanent comprehend languages spell he cast so long ago and tries to make out the runes. He also checks it out with detect magic to see what he can learn that way.
Where No Man Has Gone Before - At Least, Not in a Long Time (DM DEH) Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:35:49 AM
As Tericus leads the group into the temple, you all become visible again. Nonam and Jus sense that the magic is still activated but it is simply dormant or blocked in some way unknown to you. The temple seems to be in good shape. There isn't even much dust in the area. The temple proper is grandiose. A dome rises 250 feet at its center. There are paintings all over the walls depicting events that seem unfamiliar. There is a large picture of a tree that seems to glow at the very top of the dome. There is a portico in the center of the floor beneath the dome with stairs that lead down - probably a crypt of some sort. You see several areas of worship in the wings and many usual things in other Temples of the god of Wisdom and Justice. Towards the back of the temple you notice a few normal sized doors leading off into other parts of the building. Tericus recalls that personal quarters are usually on the left, and offices, studies, etc. are normally on the right - if this temple follows all the other designs he remembers.
Nonam's results (DM DEH) Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:43:34 AM
With his 2 spells Nonam discovers that the script emanates VERY strong magic and defies translation. He is able to determine that the runes are written in a script used during the first age of Alemi's reign. Whatever it says exactly is unclear. You have seen Alemi's other temples with runes written in the same way, it's just that these runes are much older. The form of worship has not changed in all this time - but the script clearly has.
Clangden (Stoneskin 130/+5, Invisibility<dormant>) d20+17=37 Thursday June 20th, 2002 11:30:33 AM
looks around in splendored awe, taking everything in and feeling a bit of peace wash over him. saying a quick prayer to Alemi Clangden assumes a spot to the left rear of the group, going on an even more alert status. axe drawn, shield floating Clangden watches everything with honed senses, even looking for secret doors, traps and anything out of the ordinary.
(Spot check, natural 20 <go me>, check result of 37)
Tericus(kinda invisible, stoneskin) Friday June 21st, 2002 10:16:20 AM
"Where do you think the diary is more likely to be located, in personal quarters or in an office?" Tericus asks his friends
Jus Friday June 21st, 2002 6:33:24 PM
Jus looks up at the tree, wondering where he's seen this before. Maybe it's just from legends...
"Personal quarters, if it's one of the two. I wouldn't be suprised if we have to head down, though," Jus adds.
Nonam Sunday June 23rd, 2002 8:23:44 AM
"I would imagine that since it's a Temple of Alemi the diary would have some sort of placement as a relic. Perhaps it's out on an altar or somesuch? I guess we should just start looking." Nonam heads into the temple to search.
DMJK Sunday June 23rd, 2002 8:51:22 AM
According to the YOA xp scheme, I owe you guys some more experience. It's supposed to be 1/3 of a level, and I've been giving out 1/5. Chalk up another 12,000xp ea. That's to be added to the last two awards (6000 after Edenmoor. 6000 after the Steps. Clangden just gets the 6000 for the Steps.
That should be good for a level for a bunch of you, and I still need to send in sheets to Kent. So send it in after you add in the xp.
The Holy Book (DMJK) Monday June 24th, 2002 9:11:29 AM
The group moves into the temple, invisible and on alert. The place seems sort of spooky. It's absolutely quiet with no sounds except the ones your group is making, and there is no dust and not even a single cobweb as if someone cleaned everyday. Nonam's detect magic spell picks up magic everywhere. Whatever else the magic does, it seems to keep the place clean, and it even keeps the dirty sounds of orcs and goblins from penetrating into the temple.
After a few minutes of wandering about, the group comes to a circular room in the approximate center of the temple. The room is completely empty of furniture or decoration save for an altar holding an open book in the center of the room. Even though you are underground, light shines in from a round skylight in the ceiling and falls upon the book.
It takes a second to realize it, but there is no sound at all in the chamber, not even from you. This gives the impression of looking at the scene in a picture. Apparently the altar room has been silenced by magic that has lasted centuries. Just gazing on the book in silence fills everyone with peace and a hope that the Dark Lord's reign of terror will soon come to an end.
Investigations show that Nonam's detect magic spell causes the book to glow so brightly that he can't focus on it clearly. He can clearly discern that it's an artifact. Clangden doesn't notice any traps, but he knows that he wouldn't leave a book like that laying out unprotected.
Tericus(stoneskin, invisible) Monday June 24th, 2002 10:00:45 AM
"Terisalia's last mission for me to do was to find that book. Now I have found it." Tericus says. "I doubt it will do me harm, but ive learned its better to be save than sorry." then Tericus casts detect evil, though he's pretty certain there isnt any in the room
Gareth Monday June 24th, 2002 10:33:42 AM
The warrior stares in wonder at the book. He looks to the others but refrains from speaking as no sound comes out of his mouth (he did say it was quiet in here...). He shrugs at the others and slowly moves toward the book - one step at a time to see what it does. If he feels anything that would stop him he does and backs away. If not he takes another step.
Addinein (supposed to be invisible, stoneskin) Monday June 24th, 2002 11:43:53 AM
Addinein revels in the peace that this place exudes. It has been a long time since he's felt this at peace with himself. Realizing that there might be hope for the future, Addinein watches after Gareth as he begins to move. (he didn't hear Tericus speak)
Clangden (Stoneskin 130/+5) Monday June 24th, 2002 2:41:59 PM
standing in awe at what must be THE book, he lets the peace and tranquility wash over him yet again. he snaps out of it and reminds himself what else is here in the place and immediately goes back on alert. he says a quick prayer of protection and insight to Alemi, thanks him for everything, then positions himself to defend the group and the book, if needs be.
Jus d20+15=34 Tuesday June 25th, 2002 7:04:05 AM
Jus can't believe they've found the book so easily. As Nonam said, it's too easy. Jus looks around, hoping something catches his eye [spot check: 34].
Although he doesn't draw weapons, Jus faces the entrance expectantly. Even if this is really the book, he expects some of the 'bad guys' may be following, waiting for a good time to pounce. Even as he thinks this, though, Jus can't image anything evil being allowed within the temple.
Nonam Tuesday June 25th, 2002 8:08:54 AM
Nonam steps out of the quiet zone and casts Rary's Telepathic Bond on himself, Tericus, Jus, and Addinein. It isn't much trouble since he can always see invisible. Then he speaks to the other three through telepathy, "The four of us can now communicate in the silence. I didn't cast on Gareth and Clangden for two reasons. First, I can only cast the spell on 4 people. Second, this is likely going to need a magic solution, and the four of us are the most likely to figure it out."
Then Nonam motions to Gareth and Clangden to come out and listen to him. He briefly explains what he did and why and suggests that at least one of them stand where they can hear if anything is coming into the temple.
Leaving the warriors to figure out security on their own, Nonam goes back into the silenced area to see what he can pick out the types of magic around the book.
DMJK Tuesday June 25th, 2002 8:16:57 AM
Tericus has difficulty casting his spell in the silence, but he's able to follow Nonam's lead and step outside the silenced area to cast. When he reenters, he detects no evil.
Everyone is able to move about the room freely even right up to the book. There don't seem to be any hidden doors, panels, switches, wires, levers, plates, or anything.
Nonam can definitely see all the magic around the book though. Once he focuses on it, he is able to pick out abjuration, divination, and evocation magic. There are other strands as well, but they are weak in comparison. Spellcraft DC30 to find out much more than that.
Tericus(invisible, stoneskin) d20+12=23 Tuesday June 25th, 2002 8:56:18 AM
Tericus also cast detect magic and moves next to Noonan. "Ill examine it from a differnt point of view." he thinks to Noonan and then begins his inspection(religiin Knowelge check of 23)
Gareth Tuesday June 25th, 2002 10:13:06 AM
Seeing no indication of a trap or concern from the casters, the warrior moves over to the book and examines it closely. If nothing presents itself as a problem, he reaches over to it and places his hand near it. If nothing happens he touches it briefly. And then if he's still OK he picks it up carefully.
Clangden (Stoneskin 130/+5) Tuesday June 25th, 2002 10:32:25 AM
stands a vigilant guard.
Addinein (Invisible, stoneskin) Tuesday June 25th, 2002 7:38:50 PM
Thinking, 'I wonder if getting inside the temple might be the bigger problem. Though we might want to spread each other to the 4 points of the compass, or something, and see if we can see anything from a different angle'
Nonam d20+24=43 Wednesday June 26th, 2002 1:23:34 AM
Nonam makes his spellcraft check, and the wizard explains the strands that he's able to pick out to those linked with the telepathy. About the time he points out that evocation magic is part of the puzzle, he sees Gareth reaching out to touch it. Half expecting to see Gareth get himself blown up with a fireball, Nonam winces in anticpation and shouts out to everyone with the telepathy, "DUCK!"
Jus Wednesday June 26th, 2002 3:56:09 AM
When Nonam's psychic yell shatters the silence of his contemplation, Jus starts running. He plows into Gareth, trying to knock him down and putting himself between Gareth and the book. Whatever's going to happen, the Storm's can't afford to lose their leader.
DMJK Wednesday June 26th, 2002 9:02:03 AM
Gareth falls over dead when he reaches out to touch the book, or at least that's what his companions expect to happen. Instead he just has time to feel the edges of a small, invisible force cube before Jus bowls him over.
Nonam instantly realizes that the evocation strands are all tied into the forcecage. The divination spells are set up to determine alignment, and that the abjuration spells would protect the book from anything that was evil.
Tericus determines that nothing in this place was designed with malice in mind. Nothing in this place will harm a good creature.
Clangden stands a quiet watch, not the silence of the altar chamber, just the quiet of empty rooms and halls.
Clangden (Stoneskin 130/+5) Wednesday June 26th, 2002 10:09:57 AM
seeing the sudden rush of movement in the room, towards Gareth, Clangden's nerves tenses considerably and he goes on full battle alert. he gets into his combat stance, bends his knees somewhat, tightens his grip on his Axe and prepares for combat.
when he sees gareth get bowled over by his own groupmate, and nothing happens to either one, Clangden stays on his hightened state of alert but continues to guard, expecting an attack at any moment.
Gareth Wednesday June 26th, 2002 1:05:23 PM
The warrior grabs his attacker with the intent of taking them out - until he realizes who it was that did it. Suprised the elf was able to knock him over - even from behind - he stands up and helps Jus up too, figuring there's a good reason for what he did. He looks back to the others with as questioning look.
Jus d20+18=36 Wednesday June 26th, 2002 3:41:36 PM
Jus laughs, a strange silent laugh in this quiet temple. Giving Gareth a shrug, Jus grabs the proffered hand and pulls himself up. Jus pats Gareth on the shoulder, glad nothing serious happened. In answer to Gareth's silent question, Jus tries to pantomime that Nonam yelled a warning to everyone. "You didn't do that on purpose, did you?" Jus thinks to Nonam with a chuckle. Jus has no spells to contribute to the identification task, and lets the mind-linked know this. "I have Dispel Magic, which I doubt would help here, but that's about it." Jus continues to listen to Tericus' and Nonam's discoveries, trying to use his skills to identify what to do next (Spellcraft check = 36). "Nonam, Tericus," Jus thinks, "Is it okay for Gareth to get the book? Or should our Tericus do it instead?"
Tericus(stoneskin, inv) Thursday June 27th, 2002 8:47:46 AM
"Ill get it." Tericus thinks to Jus and Nonan. "Tell the others to get back if they want." Tericus waits a couple of minuets for those that want to get clear of the book then he walks up and picks it up
Addinein Thursday June 27th, 2002 11:26:56 AM
Addinein is unsure what he can do or add while waiting for the others to decide about the book.
DMJK Thursday June 27th, 2002 3:32:49 PM
When Tericus moves to the book, he too finds that the forcecage blocks him. The physical solution doesn't seem likely. Perhaps a magical or spiritual solution will work.
Clangden hears some sort of noise. It sounds like something small got knocked over or dropped. It came from the general direction of the temple entrance.
Jus Thursday June 27th, 2002 3:55:02 PM
"What if we cast some spell that only good people can do..." Jus ponders through the mind link. "Or maybe try some communion with Alemi. There are spells to do that, right?"
Gareth Thursday June 27th, 2002 5:52:05 PM
Seeing that the casters are on the job - and that he can be of no more use, the warrior moves over with Clangden to stand guard.
Clangden (stoneskin 130/+5) Friday June 28th, 2002 9:27:15 AM
turns just in time to see Gareth show up. pointing at his <Clangden's> right ear, then pointing where he heard the noise, Clangden noticeably tenses up. turning back to where the sound came from, Clangden points back at Gareth and then points to the ground, then points to himself, points to his eyes then motions towards where the sound came from, Clangden goes to investigate.
moving as cautiously as he knows how to, Clangden goes from shadow to shadow, shield floating about him, axe in hands, ready for combat.
Gareth (Stoneskin 130/+5, Invisible) Friday June 28th, 2002 11:18:05 AM
The warrior nods the Clangden and moves in behind the dwarf. He activates his invisibility ring.
Addinein Friday June 28th, 2002 12:19:23 PM
"What other ways can we gain entry to this book?" thinks Addinein to the others that can hear his thoughts.
Nonam Friday June 28th, 2002 2:20:24 PM
Nonam thinks to everyone else, "Forcecages resist dispel magic, but they are susceptible to disintegration. That's somewhat risky, but we don't have the time to really figure out the key. I am willing to try it, but if someone wants to try prayer or something, feel free to do it first."
Nonam Friday June 28th, 2002 2:22:00 PM
As an afterthought Nonam thinks to everyone, "Maybe the page the book is opened to are the ones that we need." He steps up to read it.
DMJK Friday June 28th, 2002 2:26:37 PM
The pages of the ancient script that Nonam is able to read discuss how Alemi planted a tree when he was a mortal. The implication is clearly that the tree by the temple was planted by Alemi. It really has no bearing on defeating gods or ascending to godhood.
Clangden and Gareth are soon sure that a small group of something is in the temple. They seem to be searching for something. All the Storm Dragons are invisible and aren't making any noise, so they'd be hard to find, if you are the object of the search.
Gareth (Stoneskin 130/+5, Invisible) Friday June 28th, 2002 4:57:51 PM
The warrior speaks through his Dragon Ring. "Something has entered the temple. I would imagine Clangden and I can handle it for now but I would suggest you hurry.". (I'm assuming this is telepathic communication.). He moves forward with Clangden to investigate. He does not approach the creatures but lets them move on. He only engages them if they come over to the room.
Tericus(invisible, stoneskin) Friday June 28th, 2002 6:47:19 PM
"Well, I dont have anything that can help." Tericus thinks "Maybe me and Nonam should do this while the others see about that group Gareth told us about(if we heard what Gareth say)
Jus Friday June 28th, 2002 8:30:30 PM
"I have Disintegrate, too. If it comes down to that," Jus says, getting a little nervous the longer this takes. "Too bad we don't have a paladin around, they might be able to pick it up without a problem."
Jus contemplates the fact the Gareth was able to touch the book. Did he try to pick it up? Jus doesn't recall -- Nonam's warning came to fast.
Jus stands before the book, trying to figure this puzzle out.
'Alemi,' Jus thinks in a silent prayer, 'we need this book to help defeat Marteus. Look into our hearts and judge us, gods; friends of Alemi. If we are noble and pure, find favor with us and let us take the book -- before it falls into the hands of that blasphemer's servants.'
'To any others that are listening,' Jus adds, hoping the Storm Dragon's presence in this temple is noticed by other gods, 'We may be mortals, but we stand with the gods. We will do what we can to defeat this misguided fool, even if it costs our lives. Help us how you can.'
Jus stands waiting -- not expecting any outward sign, but somehow hoping for one. Reverently, he approaches the book and attempts to lift it from the dias.
Clangden (stoneskin 130/+5, Invisible) Saturday June 29th, 2002 10:03:50 AM
continues doing his cat - mouse thing while searching for the interlopers.
<Jus, if you go back and reread JKs post about Gareth when he was tackled, it reads his hand brushes an invisible barrier. He never actually touched the book>
Addinein Sunday June 30th, 2002 6:28:13 PM
"Does the book maybe know when you want to turn pages? Or do you frame a question to it and it turns to the appropriate section? These are just quick things to check, before we do anything drastic"
DMJK Monday July 1st, 2002 1:49:18 PM
Even as he speaks into it, Gareth realizes the ring transmits audible sound. The sounds are as yet no closer.
After Jus prays, the casters are struck with a moment of revelation. It's a display case of sorts designed more to protect the book from the elements than anything else. Perhaps it would be as simple to remove as if it were made of glass.
Tericus d20+13=22 Monday July 1st, 2002 6:39:08 PM
"Perhaps there a door or something that opens." Tericus thinks to the others. then before Nonam casts the spell, Tericus searches around for a door or opening(spot of 22)
Gareth Monday July 1st, 2002 10:38:36 PM
The warrior tracks the progress of the other group but does not engage them. He tries to spot them and get an idea of their number and ability.
Jus Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 3:15:24 AM
Jus looks at the display again. He first tries to lift the glass, then attempts to see if one of the sides open.
Hesitant to force it open, Jus takes one last look at the others for any more suggestions. If nobody makes an attempt to stop him, Jus takes a Sap from his backpack and hits the casing. If that still doesn't work, and other ideas are still not forthcoming, Jus prepares to cast Disintegrate.
<Thanks for the tip, Clangden, but Jus was occupied trying to knock down Gareth; he didn't see what Gareth did. I try to play him realisticaly>
The Solution [CDM Jerry] Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 11:57:35 AM
Your minds cloud for a second and then clear a someone tries to communicate with you. In a moment, the message comes.
"He who has heart to fight against the evil that threatens, must hear my words. I am Valdor, the Dragonstone. Leader of the Dragon Consortium and the Gold Dragons. Friend to any who oppose the Usurper and brother to any who have taken up this fight.
Not so long ago, I told you all it had begun...and so it did. Many have found ways to triumph against the armies threatening and many have died trying. These days and weeks have been hard and has seen many good people slain for no reason but a lust for power.
My friends, it is time for us to strike back! Not at the armies, or Marteaus's clerics now, but at the very God himself. As most of you know by now, a God can be defeated and even killed by mortals. There is no easy way, but it can be done.
The Usurper has taken the fight to our God's lands and only in the Lands of the Dead, can a God be defeated by a mortal. The Dragon Consortium has concluded, with the evidence produced from many of you hearing my words, that there is only one way to enter the lands of the dead. This is by becoming that which we have all fought against or heard many horror stories about. We must become undead creatures if we wish to enter and fight the slug Marteaus.
There are two ways known at this time to accomplish this. The first is by eating a souleater. It is a slug rare and hard to find. We have arranged for it to be available at The Catacombs and therefore at all businesses in their network. Simply go to the nearest magic or general store and check if they have a Catacombs connection. [In gameplay we go to the Catacombs Board after entering a store in character.] There ask for the Dragon Consortium Discount when buying anything else. Do this while in a private shopping room to avoid being overheard. Eat what you buy. It is very painful. Be prepared.
The other method of becoming undead is to enter the lands that Marteaus has created called Koshe-Marr. Once there, you must enter through a gate and come back out. It is a new gate and part machine. That's all we know of it's description. Going through the gate will turn you undead. Return through the gate and escape Koshe-Marr.
Only by becoming undead can you enter the Lands of the Dead and retain your ability to strive and quest.
The next step is to enter the lands of the Dead. We know of only one means to do this at this point in time. Seek out a place called the Parting Tree in the northern part of the Badlands. It is South of Culverwood on the main Trade Route heading west from Edenmoor. It should be just a day or so west of Edenmoor and before you get to the Emerald Kingdom. In ten days hence, any who would dare to make a difference must come there to an Inn called the Hidden Viper. From there we will journey a short distance to the Gate through which we will enter the lands of the dead and take out this would be God who has caused us such grief.
It will soon be over and there will be many in need of help. We are all brothers and sisters who take up this fight and must support one another no matter the outcome. If you cannot do this vile thing, I surely understand and ask you to help the others we leave behind. I take no one who isn't sure of themself in this action. Bring your hearts and your courage. Be strong for the end is near. Have Courage!"
His voice slowly disappears on the wind and as you think it's gone you hear once more, but very faintly, " Have courage..."
Clangden (Stoneskin 130/+5) Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 2:06:59 PM
turns and goes back to the group. finding them at the book, Clangden says: well, the call is out, and i for one won't turn down the chance to kill Martues once and for all. lets get our butts to the Catacombes, eat the worm and head for the rendevous.
Nonam Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 2:16:45 PM
Not hearing Clangden, Nonam thinks to the others, "I would like the company of others. I can teleport us to Edenmoor. Then we can be in this inn in a day. That will give 9 days to read this book. It sounds like Valdor will be there, and we can then share the information in the book with Valdor and the others."
If no one is able to get the case open, Nonam knocks it.
DMJK Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 2:17:35 PM
After Nonam knocks the case, Jus is able to lift it right off. The book is there. It looks fairly ordinary, but you know it was hand written by a living god.
[OOC: there was some sort of confusion with Steve's post. Something about Jerry's computer not working and the post being edited and re-edited by others. Anyway, the preferred method of entering the land of the dead is for us to link up with the Golds and enter the lands together through the Tree of Parting.]
Gareth (Invisible) Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 6:33:28 PM
Seeing the book float up into the air by itself, the warrior assumes that it was snagged by someone in the group. He keeps his eyes peeled for the other company as Valdor recitation goes off in his head. He waits and listens for the others to come out (watching the book). When they get there he whispers "We're not alone. Can you get us out of here before we are discovered? No need to fight just now.".
Tericus Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 2:15:13 AM
distracted by the voice of Valdor, Tericus feels dread welling up in his body. "Become undead......." he whispers to himself, though no one can hear him
Addinein Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 7:47:17 AM
Hearing the voice of Valdur, Addinein misses the intial fact that the group has the book. Addinein is also shaken by the fact of becoming undead.
Clangden (ac33, Stoneskin 130/+5, Invisible) Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 10:45:14 AM
gathers closer to the group, waiting to see what they do, and standing guard
Jus Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 12:47:36 PM
Undead... not a pleasant thought in the least. But it does have some particular advantages over the end of the entire Wold.
Jus slips the book into his backpack, then prepares to tranport with Nonam and the others. "We best do it soon before we are discovered," Jus thinks through the telepathic link.
Nonam Friday July 5th, 2002 1:19:34 PM
Since Nonam can see invisible he gethers everyone together and forms them up in a circle, "OK, I can transport us to Edenmoor, but is everyone sure that you want to go back there? I know the area enough to put us down a little distance from the town, but..."
Nonam trails off to let everyone remember what Edenmoor was like.
DMJK Friday July 5th, 2002 1:21:11 PM
Everyone can hear the others inside the temple now. It sounds like a handful of goblins, but something more powerful must be with them for them to have penetrated the temple's defenses.
Nonam awaits confirmation on location.
Tericus Sunday July 7th, 2002 4:00:55 AM
"Lets go Nonam." Tericus says simply
Clangden (ac33, Stoneskin 130/+5) Monday July 8th, 2002 1:58:31 PM
waits to be wisked away magically. stands ready to engage in combat should the need arise.
DMJK Monday July 8th, 2002 2:11:33 PM
Before Nonam has a chance to zip everyone off, you hear the sounds of battle. After a few seconds it stops, and shortly after your dwarven guide bursts into the room. He's puffing hard and spattered in blood.
He looks around, "Lucky for youse guys that I downed that potion of see invisible." He takes out a box and hands it to Clangden, "There's not a bunch of time. There's goblins all over this place. So, I was charged with getting this box to you guys. It's full of these nasty looking slugs, and you all have to eat one. Err, uhh, let me explain better. Melair sent a message, 'The Dragonstone's message was garbled. You must teleport now, eat the grubs upon arriving at your location, and then meet at the Tree of Parting ten days hence.'"
The dwarf points at the box, "I don't know about this Dragonstone or the Tree thing, but I thought maybe it's this tree here, so I rushed the slugs right over. There's goblins all over the place, so I hope you know more than me."
The dwarf passes the box off to Clangden, gives a little wave, and rushes back out with his axe in hand.
Nonam is able to gather everyone up and teleport the group to Edenmoor. Jus holds the diary, and Clangden holds the box full of souleater.
[Sorry for the pace. Anyone wishing to continue to the endgame will need to 1)eat one of the slugs 2)get to the tree of parting 3)post on the Emerald Talon board this Wednesday and 4)convert your character to an undead.
You should all have posting priviledges on the Emerald Talon board, but check it out now to make sure. If you can't, post it here, and I'll make sure you get access.
Here are the player instruction for converting to undead. All of you will stay at the same level, so there isn't too much work involved:
Here it is in brief: 1) Change Con to "--" [be sure to deduct bonus HP] 2) Give a -2 to Chr 3) Give a +2 racial bonus to Hide, Listen, Move Silently, and Spot 4) Raise all sub-level 10 PCs to level 9+1d4. Decrease those higher than 15 to 15. 5) Reroll ALL hit dice as d12s (great for mages!) 6) Raise Natural AC by +1
Here's the official player instructions: BECOMING UNDEAD
Role Play Tips:
Your character has risen from the dead. You are undead. You retain your memories, personality, and alignment -- YOU ARE NOT EVIL.
However, your blood does not flow. Your heart does not beat. You do not have hormones or any of the usual physiology. Emotionally, you have no adrenaline, no great swings of mood or emotion. Your greatest loves are now more like affection. Your deepest hates are mere distaste. You are not afraid. You are calm, mostly. You still have intense feelings, but they are mental, not from the heart. Your hair, skin, and eyes are white. Your skin has a stretched look. You move when you want to, but otherwise you are very still -- no fidgeting, no idle movements. You are not hungry or thirsty or sleepy. You LOOK undead -- it would take a disguise check to pass as living.
You are a free-willed being. You can do anything you want to. You can talk, cast spells, and communicate fully. But you are not as emotional as you were. You feel drained. Why do you still exist? You are not sure. But you can definitely talk freely.
If you want to role play that your voice is slow, or monotone, or deep and tomb-like, you can do so! Feel free to role play. You are undead now, but you are still a full character in the game. You can post just like always. And you are still yourself with your same personality; you are still loyal to your friends. But you don't feel as deeply as you used to. Be yourself. an undead version of yourself! By the way, you have full hit points and full spells. You can feel negative energy inside you that has healed you and filled your spell slots. It is an uncomfortable feeling.
TRANSFORMATION PROCESS IN A NUTSHELL (FOR WOLD ENDGAME USE)
You may not be the same level that you were -- your DM will tell you what level you are. Your DM may also let you choose a number of special undead abilities.
Then reduce your Charisma by two. For your Con, put "--" because undead have no Con. Then reroll all your hit dice, with 12-sided dice (reroll ones). You get no adjustment for Con, either plus or minus.
Give yourself a +1 Natural Armor class bonus (or boost your existing bonus).
Add +2 to your Hide, Listen, Move Silently, and Spot checks.
Make a note of the special attacks and qualities you gain. Your DM will tell you what those are, but they will definitely include these: Undead are immune to poison, sleep, paralysis, stunning, disease, death effects, and necromantic effects, and they ignore mind-influencing effects. Undead are not subject to critical hits, subdual damage, ability damage, ability drain, or energy drain. They have no Constitution scores and are therefore immune to any effect requiring a Fortitude save (unless it affects objects). An undead spellcaster uses its Charisma modifier when making Concentration checks. They have darkvision with a range of 60 feet.
Work with your DM to finalize your new undead PC sheet.
Clangden Monday July 8th, 2002 4:29:02 PM
cant post on emerald kingdom board yet, but did roll for hp in loot and booty, got me a 103.
JK Tuesday July 9th, 2002 3:06:51 PM
If you missed Jerry's notes on the LnB, all undead characters will be 12th level. So for HP roll an 11d12+12 (automatic 12 pts for 1st level, and then d12 for lvls 2-12). And starting tomorrow (Wed) you will post on the Catacombs board instead of in game 3 like I said yesterday. Once you get an undead character sheet made up, send it to me, so I can check it over. Once I get it, I'll give you your special undead powers and forward it to whomever needs it for the endgame.
So, I'm giving one last wrap up DM, and starting tomorrow, you should post in the Catacombs.
Undeath (DMJK) Tuesday July 9th, 2002 3:28:56 PM
Nonam teleports the group just outside of Edenmoor. The devastation there is still horrific. The walls are a ruin and the town is still smoking. Dead goblins and orcs litter the field before the town, and the stench of the dead is overwhelming. The location seems perfect for eating the souleaters and starting down the final road that should lead to the destruction of Marteaus.
Clangden opens the box and everyone is able to take one of the horrid little bugs out. They're slimey like a slug, but they have nasty looking little clawed legs. Everyone that plans to go on with this quest, takes one and swallows one whole.
Gods. The pain.
It's horrific. The claws seem to dig into your chest from the inside. Like it's burrowing toward your heart. None of you can speak for a few moments. Then breaths are hard to take. It takes a force of will to move toward Culverwood and this tree.
You run into a few straggling bands of adventurers on your way that all seem destined for the same place. All of the haggard look that you now associate with ingestion of one of the wretched slugs. By nightfall, you arrive at the Tree of Parting and the Hidden Viper Inn. You are amongst the first to arrive, but already most of the rooms are gone. An army of adventurers has assembled here. Hopefully, these slugs are the way to salvation and not some sort of grand assassination attempt. Oh, how they hurt. The pain is getting worse.
Now that you are finally at your destination, you are all finally able to peruse Alemi's mortal diary. The scholars work in shifts reading the thing in hopes of finding information on how to ascend into godhood. Finally the relevant passages are found:
"Indeed my power has grown great enough over the past years, that I had been able to slay some of the weakest of the vile gods of the old Pantheon. But the strongest elude destruction, and I myself am yet a mortal. However, I believe that I have found the answer. A mystical place known as the Oshirr House is said to hold the answers to life, death, and immortality. I have discovered that this Oshirr House is in the Lands of the Dead. I must find it and enter within to attain immortality."
A few passages later: "I arrived at the Oshirr House, and with trembling hands I reached for the door to step within. But the door is locked. I must find the key."
There are many passages that deal with the search for the key. But finally: "I have found the key to the Oshirr House. It was a mystical key, a living key. Thus it was able to elude my grasp for so long. The King of the Dead had hidden it well from me, but I found it."
That is the last entry.
Tericus Tuesday July 9th, 2002 7:32:02 PM
Tericus eats one of the slugs(i guess if im not playing in none of the games theres no need to post)
JK Wednesday July 10th, 2002 1:19:08 PM
[If you aren't going to be in the endgame go ahead and post in the Catacombs for showing up at the Tree, but don't worry with converting your sheet.]
DMJK Wednesday July 10th, 2002 1:20:11 PM
The few days after eating the slugs are studies in pain. Nothing has hurt any of you mighty heroes so badly for so long before. The things steal your life, but you go on living as the undead.
Clangden Wednesday July 10th, 2002 4:53:54 PM
after what seemed like eternity, Clangden finally recovers from the terrible pain that ensued from eating the worm.
saying: gee, i never had this feeling after eating "the" worm. of course, after it was soaked in alcohol for god knows how long, probably took out the tremendous kick.
with that said, Clangden stands there, staring at nothing in particular, waiting on something but not knowing what.
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