Who Wants to Live Forever? (DM Chris) Monday October 15th, 2001 9:22:57 AM
As you press on along the forest trail, hoping to get as much distance between yourselves and the site of the grisly elven death scene, you begin to notice one... two.. three.. and many more birds of the forest careening across your path, and smashing into trees as if from extreme disorietation. The brush too, seems alive with motion as the squirrels and chipmunks, also seemingly disoriented fall out of their sylvan perches to land roughly on the ground, in the brush and around the trail. Looking up into the trees, you notice that fiery comets streak across the sky, blazing trails in a myriad web of heavenly might. You watch it for a bit, then you hear a voice. It bring tears to your eyes, even though you do not know its source.
“Have courage!”
Then blue electricity seems to reach out towards you. Passing through you and beyond, you suddenly feel strangely refreshed and rejuvenated. It is as if you were ten years younger. Strange. Then suddenly, something indistinct happens as the lightning disappears leaving you in complete darkness. Then it hits you like a wave.
Pain! Anguish! Cowardice! Anger!
Multiple emotions flash through you simultaneously. Then the Yrth shakes for but a moment, and looking up, you can see light flashing through the sky. A wave of indescribable fear rips through you all and you know in your heart of hearts that Domi is dead. You can't explain it... you just know.
From among you, a low growl erupts, and you see Dakar, with blood dripping from the pores in his forehead, a crazed expression is on his face. Growls erupt from the wood around you, and you see the forms of several huge wolves closing on the party. From within, you hear Dakar's joints popping as his muscles bulge, and the grip on his axe tightens.
It is then that you notice Bertram your cleric of Domi writhing in convulsions on the ground. (Bertram make a Will save DC 19. If you fail email me.)
Ingrge d20=15 Monday October 15th, 2001 11:39:27 AM
Riding along, Ingrge is aware and alarmed at the activity of the animal life they are coming across. So much so that he takes the time to check his weaponry to assure himeslf that everything is there and ready. Nerves a bit on edge from the last few days and their current situation, he is still caught unawares by the cosmic activity and stops his horse to gawk at the going ons. As the voice is heard and he is showered with the bolts of blue, Ingrge is at first terrified and then relaxes as the wave of benificence washees through him, only to be quickly replaced by a profound sense of emptiness and sorrow. Almost immediately that turns to a fear so unlike anything he has faced before and that in turn makes him angry. It is this anger that he is left with as the realization strikes home that someone has killed Domi. Someone has killed a GOD! this thought shrieks through Ingrge's spirit, just as his mind registers the growls coming from Dakar and the wolves.
Abruptly coming back to himself and into the present he takes in the scene and with an anguished scream not heard before, leaps off his horse and stands above the fallen cleric. As he readies his bow and reaches for his silver arrows, he yells. "Ware all, we have Skinchangers among us."
Figment d100=32 Monday October 15th, 2001 12:11:32 PM
The mage gasps as the intense wave of fear blasts through him once again. Not enough to just have it last night. "Here we go again...". But this time he finds the strength from Domi's final words to hold his ground. "Looks like we found the creatures that took out the elves. Time to fight folks - and Lian, THIS is what I mean by trouble seems to follow us around!". The mage casts a web on the closest appoaching wolves, using the trees for anchors. He tries to get as many as he can. (Unless they are in the mid 20's in strength, they'll at the very least be slowed to 5 or 10' per round).
The mage prepares to cast again.
K'Nara d20-1=15 d20-1=19 d20+5=18 d20+4=24 Monday October 15th, 2001 4:28:21 PM
(OOC: Made voluntary Spot checks to: a--see if K'Nara notices that the moons are blood red, and b--see if K'Nara notices that it isn't just Dakar who is going crazy; made voluntary Ride check.)
The human bladesinger was buffeted by the gamut of emotions sweeping over her. Poki began to dance wildly in place, rearing a bit in panic.
"Hold on, Milo!!!" shouted K'Nara, using all her skill to try to control her normally-rather-placid mount. She did so, but didn't like the wild-eyed expression on the terrified equine.
Then all hell seemed to break loose, first with Dakar's tranformation...then with Brother Bertram's reactions.
Drawing Lucia from its scabbard, K'Nara cried out:
"I'm dismounting, Milo--let go!" With these words, the redhead sprang from her saddle and somersaulted to the ground, landing not too far away from Brother Bertram.
No time to dwell on what's happened to Domi... the leader of the Talons thought to herself, reaching out a hand towards Bertram, ...I only hope the good Brother is all right...
"Brother Bertram...how do you feel..?" K'Nara asked.
Milo d20+10=23 Monday October 15th, 2001 6:37:24 PM
Nearly overwhelmed by the array of strong emotions sweeping through his diminutive frame, Milo is shaken out of it as Poki becomes somewhat tumultuous to ride upon. Just as K'nara is beginning her dismount, Milo releases his grip on her, and tumbles off the back of the horse, landing squarely on his feet. With a flash his short sword practically jumps from his scabbard, and he is ready for action.
Flueterflam d20+1=12 Monday October 15th, 2001 7:29:55 PM
A swift shiver sweeps through the bard's spine. He feels every single hair on his body stand straighter than ever in his short life. With the most powerful words he can ever remember hearin in his life, Flueterflam wills away his fear.
He dismounts among all the distress. (DC 12) And turns to face the oncoming onslaught. He unsheathes his short sword, realizing a dagger would be worthless. He keeps half his attention on Dakar, fearing that the dwarf may sway either way, now that some strange transformation is occuring.
Fluet sets his eyes upon the ground for a moment, breathes deeply but quitely. After a few seconds, he raises his eyes to everything that is happening. Nothing will stand can move him, as his will becomes stone.
Olana d20+4=24 Monday October 15th, 2001 8:09:56 PM
Olana's mood becomes all the more flighty as she sees the distress of the surrounding animals and birds. "There's something wrong, something terribly wrong," she mutters over and over. She cries out as the "happening" occurs, dismounting swiftly at the same time as Fluet. Realising that she has to get a grip, or the group may perish, she swallows her terror ((Will save DC24)) and draws her bow. So this was what happened when God's died? "Have mercy on us all," she whispered.
Brother Bertram Monday October 15th, 2001 10:37:54 PM
Bertram slowly rolls back over, his eyes opening weakly. "What, what happened?"
Lian Tuesday October 16th, 2001 2:56:50 AM
"The balance of the world has been shaken!" "What has happened!? A God died, how is this possible?"
"By all the Gods!"
Lian falls off his horse, not accustomed to being bounced around and shaken on horseback.
He scrambles to his feet and reacts in a defensive stance, stringing his shortbow, readying to knock an arrow. He is aware that he might have to use his bow as a quarterstaff.
Rage... (DM Chris) d20+7=12 d20+7=18 d8=3 d8=6 d20+12=31 d20+12=14 d8+10=12 d8+10=12 d20+11=23 d20+11=16 d8=7 d20+11=30 d10+5=7 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 11:00:58 AM
Due to them being way spread out, Figment nails only one of the dire wolves with his web spell, though the creature unsuccessfully attempts to avoid the sticky strands. The wolf begins to strain at the confines of the spell, and is held fast, for the present anyways. The other two dire wolves charge in from widely differing angles to viciously bite both Lian and Flueterflam. (Hit both of you for 12 hps damage each, both must make a successful dex check to avoid being tripped: Lian DC 23, Fluet DC 16)
Dakar's head snaps up, and it is apparent to all viewing him that the glazed expression on his face means he does not recognize anything, or anyone, for that matter for what, or who they truly are. With a scream of pure rage, the battlerager launches an assault on Milo, landing a solid blow against the halfling.
(OOC: Dakar hit AC 30 for 7 hps damage) (Dire Wolves are AC 14, Dakar is AC 17)
Flueterflam d20+1=4 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 11:23:52 AM
The bard stands ready to attack the wolves. Surprised at the suddeness of the wolf, Fluet is taken off guard. He is not able to catch himself from tripping. In fact, he falls right on his rear, with a loud painful 'thump'.
Brother Bertram d20+6=25 d10+5=9 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 11:37:54 AM
Bertram realizes thier peril and climbs to his feet weakly, trying not to faint. He looks up in time to see Dakar attack Milo in some sort of rage. Trying to remain conscious, Bertram swings his axe at Dakar, trying to save Milo's life. Hearing the axe make contact, Bertram tries to remain awake to see if he can help save Milo and stop Dakar.
Figment 3d4(3+1+4)+1=9 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 1:04:57 PM
The mage curses as Dakar launches into Milo, frustrated that he cannot detain him via web without catching other party members. He decides to let Bertram deal with his earth kin for the time being he casts magic missile at the wolf that attacked Lian as he is most likely the least prepared for this battle. Although, he's never seen Fluet really ever ready for battle much... (11 DMG - +3 not +1)
Milo d20+10=25 d20+8=21 d20+8=21 4d6(4+4+5+3)+1=17 4d6(1+6+2+3)+1=13 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 2:22:55 PM
Surprised at Dakar's attack, Milo tumbles around the enraged dwarf in order to take up a flanking position opposite Bertram. (Tumble check DC 25) Then his shortsword becomes a blur, practically humming as it slices into the insane dwarf. (Hit Dakar twice, both for sneak attack damage; 30 hps damage total) Then suddenly realizing what he is doing, he yells to Bertram, "Perhaps we should attempt to subdue him, rather than kill him."
K'Nara d20+6=26 d3+1=3 d20+6=23 d3+1=2 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 5:13:35 PM
Hearing Milo's comment--and seeing that Bertram is relatively all right--K'Nara resheathed her sword, a smile of anticipation on her face.
"I'll take care of Dakar--" she assured the others, "--defend against these damned dire wolves!" With a cry that could rival the unique trilling of a warrior princess, the human bladesinger launched herself feet-first at Dakar. (OOC: as K'Nara possesses Unarmed Strike for one of her Feats, she can do this. ;D)
K'Nara's flying kick hits the combat-crazed Dakar with a solid thump. (Made a Crit hit for a total of 5hp subdual damage.)
"C'mon, battlerager," taunted the tall redhead as she continued to try to draw Dakar's attention to herself, "You always claimed you could outfight any ol' sissy pseudo-elf...so let's dance already..!"
Ingrge d20+6=26 d20+6=24 d6+3=8 d6+3=8 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 6:47:35 PM
With a loud curse about the unbelievable stupidity of stiff-necked dwarves, Ingrge launches a silver arrow at the wolf on Lian, watching with a satisfied grin as the bolt becomes a shimmerring spiral of death, as it strikes home lodging itself deep within the wolf's side. (26 possible crit roll, 24 for a sure crit. for a total damage of 16)
Lian d20+3=22 d20+6=22 d8-1=1 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 7:52:24 PM
Lian attempts to remain standing as the wolf clamps on and pulls him to the ground, ripping a gash in one of his calves. (Dex Check 22)
Jumping up, rather put off by the wolfs attack, Lian attacks the wolf head on with a Stunning Attack. The wolf is struck square on the snout. Total damage of 1 whole point. (Dire Wolf must succeed a Fort save of 16 or be Stunned for a round, can't act, loses Dex to AC and attackers gain +2 attack bonus.)
"Ingrge!" "I could use a hand."
Olana d20+5=13 d20+5=7 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 8:07:50 PM
The elf's eyes narrow as she see's her friends attacked. Noting that Milo and Lian appear covered by one or more of the others, and K'Nara is taking on Dakar, she stows her bow, pulls her swords ,figuring its too close for ranged attacks and goes straight for the wolfy on Fluet, missing the creature by a hair's breadth. ( factored in my -2 penalty)
Battle On... (DM Chris) d3=2 d20+8=16 d20+7=21 d20+10=12 d20+14=32 d8+10=11 d20+11=13 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 10:47:13 AM
Out of the corner of Figment's eye, the mage can see that his web spell won't last long as the captured dire wolf begins to rip free from his sticky prison. (Str check DC 21)
Unstunned by Lian's attack the dire wolf snaps at the young elf who nimbly sidesteps the attack. (Missed with AC 12)
Intent on the kill, the third dire wolf attacks Flueterflam, who has remained prone on the ground, biting him viciously and knocking him into unconsiousness. It is obvious that the bard is bleeding from his wounds. (Flueterflam takes 11 hps damage)
Further enraged at K'nara's taunting, Dakar turns, and swings his axe wildly at her, missing. (Missed with AC 13)
Figment 6d6(5+2+2+5+6+1)=21 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 10:57:17 AM
(Did the Magic Missile hit?). The mage decides this has to be won quickly and he reacts accordingly. He lines up the wolf struggling in the web and he casts again. A bolt of electrical energy appears and blasts straight into the creature - setting the web ablaze as well.
(NOTE: The creature should not get a reflex save as it is essentially immobilzed and it gets fire damage from the burning web. Also, if Figment can line up either of the other wolves in his lightning bolt without hitting any party members he will do so. Map?).
Lian (down 12 HP) d20+6=8 d20+6=25 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 4:33:49 PM
Lian glances to see if Merlot is alright.
Then realizing the dire wolf is still coming for him, Lian stands Fighting Defensively (as a standard action, because of his ranks in Tumble, he raises his AC +3 to a total of 20), as he takes another Stunning Attack (2nd) attempt (still unarmed and unarmored).
Missing the wolf , AC 8, Lian defends against the next attack of the huge beast, knowing that could be the last. He dukes and dodges back and forth, trying to throw off the animals attack.
(OOC: I want to make a Spot check to see if Lian can find a weakness or a wound on this wolf, made a Spot of 25!)
Brother Bertram d20+6=16 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 5:49:51 PM
Dazed, Bertram moves to the wolf attacking Fluet and swings his axe as best he can. He grimaces as he sees the weakness of his swing. With no other option available, Bertram screams at the wolf, at least hoping to draw the beast to him rather than poor Fluet.
Ingrge d20+10=26 d6+4=8 d6+4=8 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 7:08:42 PM
(OOC: I will assume that Ingrge's arrow hit Lian's wolf, Yes?? BTW I did not have my sheets when I posted yesterday actuall damage done by the crit hit should have been 26 points)
Seeing the wolf miss Lian, once again he drasw a bead on the wolf with another of his silver arrows and lets fly (hits AC 26 for 8 more points)
Milo d20+10=30 d20+8=18 d20+8=27 d20+8=23 4d6(1+1+2+6)+1=11 5d6(3+2+2+6+3)+2=18 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 7:16:46 PM
Pleased to back out of the fight with Dakar, Milo quickly surveys the scene, and seeing that Flueterflam is down he leaps, tumbles and rolls his way over to flank the dire wolf that attacked him, opposite Bertram. Once there, his enchanted short sword whips around striking the creature twice, the second blow dealing critical damage. (OOC: Hit twice, the second attack is a confirmed critical; Total damage 29 hps)
Olana d20+5=16 d20+5=23 d8=8 d6=2 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 7:25:42 PM
"How dare you!" yells the angry elf as the wolf tears into her best bard friend. "Take that!" ::slice:: And that!" ::stab:: (10 Dam + Mods = 12)
K'Nara d20+6=21 d3+1=3 Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:21:22 AM
"What's the matter, earthkin..?" K'Nara jeers. "Can't you hit a dancing target..?" The tall redhead once more strikes out at the raging dwarf, smacking him in the face with her fist. (OOC: another 3hp damage, for a total of 8hp subdual damage.)
The Dance... (DM Chris) d20+7=22 d4=2 d4=1 d20+10=27 d8+10=13 d20+11=20 d20+10=17 d10+5=15 d20+10=14 d20+11=20 d10+5=15 Thursday October 18th, 2001 3:43:50 PM
Figment's lightning bolt rips through the webbing, searing the dire wolf, causing it to take additional burn damage from the burning web as well. Enraged, the dire wolf charges the wizard biting him visciously, and attempting to pull him to the ground. (Figment takes 13 hps and needs to make a dex check DC 20 or be tripped and fall prone)
Nimbly side stepping Lian's attack, the dire wolf snaps at the elf monk yet again, though barely missing him.
Attacking Fluet's dire wolf, Bertram connects much to his surprise, and rather solidly at that. (AC 16 hits, 15 hps dmg)
As with his first shot, Ingrge's bow strikes true, causing blood to seep out over the arrow's shaft, stuck in the wound.
Milo and Olana seem to nearly fight in concert as the two lay into the dire wolf that dropped poor Flueterflam. In a frenzy of blood and pain, the creature whips around to attack Milo in vain as the halfling shuffles a ducks out of the way.
Though K'nara's pummeling seems to have some effect on the insane Dakar, the dwarf also seems further enraged at her strikes and taunting, swinging his waraxe to strike her solidly. (K'nara take 15 hps dmg)
Figment d20+3=5 d20+4=15 d20+4=19 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 d4+1=5 Thursday October 18th, 2001 4:03:07 PM
Suprised to see the wolf survive the blast and the fire he tries to dodge the wolf - but doesn't quite make it. As the wolf visciously bites him, he falls to the ground (Dex DC 5). He draws his dagger and slashes at the wolf - going for his eyes. He also tries to work his way back up to a standing position - totally unacustomed to having to resort to thi form of attack.
(Hit AC 15,19 for 4+5=9 DMG - reroll 1 DMG)
Brother Bertram d20+6=18 d10+5=7 Thursday October 18th, 2001 6:17:21 PM
Bertram feels a little more strength returning and swings again at the same wolf, hoping his axe will finish the foul beast.
(OOC hits for another 12 points damage)
Olana d20+5=24 d20+5=11 d8+1=3 Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:09:06 PM
Olana glances around, noting that things were getting rather desperate. She lunges into the dire wolf on Fluet, connecting with her longsword (3 dam), and hopes that herself, Milos' and Bertram's combined efforts were enough to finish this one off - because it looked like some of the others needed a hand there, too. "Fluet! Wake up!" she yells, hoping he'll come to and try and crawl away
Ingrge d20+10=30 d20+10=21 d6+3=6 d6+3=9 d6+3=7 Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:27:50 PM
Taking aim once again on his chosen target (Lian's wolf), Ingrge lets fly with yet another arrow and watches with grim satisfaction as his third arrow flies true and lodges righ between his previous two (Potential crit roll 30, crit rool 21, damage 22 points)
(geesh I love these dice)
Lian d20+6=15 d8-1=7 d20+4=5 Thursday October 18th, 2001 8:30:46 PM
Lian continues to Fight Defensively (AC still 20), not realizing that there are already three arrows in the nasty beast. He attacks the wolf again with what seems to be several lightning fast blows (Flurry of Blows first is +6, the second at +4). First hitting the wolf, AC 15 for 7 points of Damage. And the second and less affective, misses horribly.
"Are you hungry beast? Take another bite!"
Milo d20+8=27 d20+8=27 d20+8=12 5d6(2+6+4+4+4)+2=22 Friday October 19th, 2001 4:25:59 AM
Ducking and weaving from side to side, Milo shifts and steps, countering the wolf's moves as he attacks. Stepping to one side, in order to flank the creature opposite Olana, the halfling's short sword blurs once again, attacking the dire wolf with lightning speed. His first attack strikes critically, though his second is a complete blunder as he wrenches the enchanted blade free of the wolf's body. (Crit threat with 27, confirmed crit with 27 for 22 hps damage)
K'Nara d20+6=26 d20+6=24 d3+1=3 d3+1=4 Friday October 19th, 2001 7:27:58 AM
K'Nara stumbled to one side as Dakar literally knocked the first lesson of fighting into her: never underestimate your opponent.
"Damn..!" the woman warrior cursed herself for her overconfidence, then redoubled her efforts to get Dakar to keep his attention on her and not on the other, desperately-battling Talons.
"C'mon, Dakar--however can you possibly face the rest of your clan if some silly human woman beats the crap out of you..?" K'Nara taunted, demonstrating her expertise once more by whirling around and using her feet to land several blows. (OOC: yeowza! Crit hit confirmed for 7hp subdual damage this round; that makes the subdual total up to 15hp...on top of the previous regular damage that had been dished out by the others earlier.)
Oh the Insanity... (DM Chris) d20+10=17 d20+11=21 d8+10=17 d20+11=27 d10+5=9 Friday October 19th, 2001 10:52:41 AM
Staggering to his feet, Figment manages to jab the dire wolf good, fully keeping the creature's attention on himself. The dire wolf returns the wizard's attack biting him yet again. (Figment takes another 17 hps dmg and must make a dex check DC 21 to remain on his feet)
With the combined attacks of Bertram, Olana, and Milo the dire wolf that originally attacked Flueterflam dies.
The dire wolf stumbles back from Lian as the elf strikes him soundly on the head, only to catch Ingrge's well placed shot through the back of the throat, killing it as well.
Dakar's head rocks back as K'nara strikes him again, and the dwarf swings his deadly axe, striking K'nara soundly. Foam can be seen dribbling down the dwarf's chin. (Hit K'nara with AC 27 for 9 hps dmg)
Figment d20+3=4 d20+3=7 Friday October 19th, 2001 12:08:59 PM
The mage gasps as he is severely wounded by the beast. He stumbles to the ground yet again. Thinking only about not dying less than 10 seconds from now, he casts invisibility on himself and rolls away from it - hoping he can do it from the ground. (Missed save - hit the roller an extra time by accident - disregard)
Brother Bertram d20+6=25 d10+5=9 Friday October 19th, 2001 5:20:46 PM
Turning quickly, feeling better, Bertram swings at the wolf that was attacking Figment, startled at his disappearance. Bertram feels a sense of grim satisfaction as he hears and feels the axe enter the wolf's shoulder with a meaty 'thunk'.
(OOC 9 points)
Olana (Wrangler Elf) d20+12=20 Friday October 19th, 2001 7:39:34 PM
Seeing Bertram switch to the wolf on Figment, and knowing just how lethal Dakar's axe is - Olana quickly pulls the rope from over her shoulder and attempts to throw it over Dakar and pull him sharply off his feet. ((Rope Use DC 20))
Ingrge d20+10=30 d20+10=16 d6+3=6 d6+3=7 d6+3=6 Friday October 19th, 2001 8:21:58 PM
Watching his target fall, Ingrge focusses in on Dakar, seeing several others leap to Figment's defense. Taking careful aim for the middle of his right hand, Ingrge lets fly with another arrow. (called shot -4 nat 20 hits AC 26, crit roll hits AC 16.) Damage if crit hit 19, otherwise 6 points)
Lian d20+8=27 d8-1=3 Saturday October 20th, 2001 12:19:21 AM
Seeing the wolf fall, he surveys the battle and watches Bertram lay into the wolf on Figment. Lian Charges to hit the wolf on Figment, he realizes the amount of pain he is really in and begins to favor his left leg.
When reaching the wolf, Lian strikes out boldly at it with a Stunning Attack. (+6 unarmed plus 2 for the Charge) (Fort save 16, or be stunned, loses dex and attacker gains +2 to hit)
Hits the wolf doing 3 points of damage.
His pain is fully apparent as he lifts his leg to reduce the weight on it.
Milo d8+1=9 Saturday October 20th, 2001 2:14:39 AM
As his friends carry on the fight, Milo kneels down next to Flueterflam, and begins to pray to Alemi that his friend is not dead. Then touching the bard gently on the forehead, he prays for Alemi's healing hand. (OOC: Converted Shield of Faith to Cure Light Wounds for 9 hps of curing on Flueterflam)
K'Nara d20+5=17 d3+1=4 d20+5=19 d20+1=17 Monday October 22nd, 2001 6:34:16 AM
If Olana's attempt to rope Dakar does NOT work, then K'Nara attempts to hit the battlerager again, hitting AC17 for 4hp subdual.
If Olana DOES manage to rope Dakar, then K'Nara will attempt to seize the rope and add her own strength to Olana's in attempting to yank the dwarf off his feet and disarm him. Hit AC19, made a Strength check of 17.
All Tied Up, and no one to Roll... (DM Chris) d20+10=24 d8+10=12 d20+5=20 d20+8=21 d20+9=26 d20+9=20 d20+6=13 d20+10=29 Monday October 22nd, 2001 11:21:03 AM
Confused by the wizard's disappearance, the remaining dire wolf turns and launches itself straight into Bertram, biting the cleric visciously. (Hit AC 24 for 12 hps)
Whipping out her rope, and successfully forming a lariat with it, Olana slings it around Dakar successfully snaring the dwarf. Joining the fray, K'nara grabs the rope as well, attempting to assist Olana, however, when they attempt to jerk the dwarf off his feet, they find him difficult to handle. Dakar strains at the rope, attempting to pull it from Olana's and K'nara's grasp unsuccessfully.
At this point, Ingrge lets loose with his bow, firing at arrow straight into Dakar's hand, causing the dwarf to drop his axe as a gout of blood issues from the wound.
Milo successfully heals 9 hps of Flueterflam's damage.
Figment d8=7 Monday October 22nd, 2001 11:26:59 AM
The mage moves away from the fighting so that the wolf - nor Dakar can get at him directly. If Olana is successful in her rope attempt he yells to the warrior woman. "Back away K'Nara, quickly!". He then casts sleep on Dakar. If not, he drinks a CLW potion (7 points - CLW is 1d8 correct?).
Brother Bertram d20+6=19 d10+5=13 Monday October 22nd, 2001 5:15:17 PM
Bertram reels back from the attack and returns another of his own, his axe striking deeply in the wolf's shoulder.
(OOC 13 points damage)
Olana d20+3=16 Monday October 22nd, 2001 7:20:23 PM
Digging in her heels, the elf gasps - "Tree gods! He's a tough one!" to K'Nara as they try and quell Dakar's berserker rage. She continues pulling on the rope but letting some of it slide a little - hopefully then she's not close enough to be affected by Figments spell. (Strength check - DC 16)
Ingrge d20+10=17 d6+3=6 Monday October 22nd, 2001 8:23:09 PM
Seeing that Dakar is well in hand he takes aim at the wolf on Bertram and lets fly with yet another arrow and watches at is speeds to its target. (hits AC17 for 6 points)
Lian d20+8=28 d20+8=22 d8-1=7 d8-1=0 Monday October 22nd, 2001 9:51:35 PM
Lian steps into flanking position across from Bertram. Lian strikes out at the wolf again. (+6 unarmed melee and +2 flanking.) Crit threat on 28, confirmed on 22)
Wolf takes a total of 7 points of damage.
Milo d20+10=27 d20+8=24 4d6(3+6+1+1)+1=12 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 12:58:17 AM
Tumbling into a flanking position opposite K'nara, Milo looks Dakar in the eye as he wraps the pommel of his short sword across the dwarf's forehead with a solid thunk. (Hit Dakar with a sneak attack at AC 20 for 12 hps subdual damage)
Flueterflam Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 1:55:05 AM
The bard sits up, rubs his new gash tenderly for a small moment. "Uggg...." Realizing that he shouldn't jump into battle with the last wolf, he sheathes his short sword and strings his bow.
K'Nara d20+1=5 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 6:38:12 AM
K'Nara continues to try to haul Dakar off his feet. (OOC: however, I doubt her Strength check of 5 does that...)
And the Mountain Falls... (DM Chris) d20+10=22 d8+10=14 d20+8=26 d20+8=23 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 10:59:50 AM
Drinking a potion of cure light wounds, some of Figment's wounds begin to close and fade. (CLW is d8+1 for 8hps total)
Obviously weakening from the combined onslaught of Lian's, Bertram's, and Ingrge's attacks, the dire wolf bites Bertram for what may be his last living action. (Hit AC 22 on Bertram doing 14 hps dmg/Also made save for last stunning attack and this one as well at DC 26 and 23 respectively)
As Milo lands a solid blow on Dakar's forehead, the dwarf's face goes slack, his eyes roll up into the back of his head, and with K'nara's and Olana's tug, the dwarf goes down in a slump.
Figment 3d4(2+1+3)+3=9 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 5:15:15 PM
Seeing Dakar subdued, the mage focuses on the remaining wolf. He prepares a magic missle, but holds it to see what effect his friends' attacks have before firing. If they don't finish it, he does (9 DMG id needed).
Olana d20+12=14 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 8:14:58 PM
Olana will quickly help tie Dakar up. She then grins at Milo. "That was quite a clout," she says. "Remind me never to argue with the flat of your blade." ((Use rope DC 14))
Milo d20=19 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 9:55:56 PM
Milo smiles sheepishly at Olana's comment, and then sobers up immediately, "I feel bad for having to attack him at all, but I didn't see any other way. We should tie him up, so he doesn't hurt anyone when he wakes." Milo checks and binds Dakar's wounds as best he can. (Made an untrained heal check DC 19)
Lian d20+6=14 d8-1=1 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 2:15:21 AM
Lian takes another attack from the flanking position, regular unarmed attack.
Hitting AC 14 plus the 2 flanking for AC 16.
Dire Wolf takes 1 point of damage... again!
K'Nara d20+12=22 d10+5=11 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 7:20:25 AM
K'Nara felt like her limbs were made of lead and her experience told her that she was probably about half dead...but the leader of the Talons withdrew Lucia from its scabbard and carefully maneuvered to where the last threat to her party was located.
"Eat steel!" she hissed and struck at the dire wolf. (Hits AC22 for 11hp damage--no fire damage as Lucia's flame hasn't been activated.)
Darkness Once Again... (DM Chris) Wednesday October 24th, 2001 10:18:56 AM
Dakar is successfully bound by Olana as Milo tends the dwarf's wounds, stemming their flow. Dakar is alive, though very wounded at this point, and completely unconscious.
Lian dances foward, and strikes the dire wolf, who nearly dodges the blow, but is struck for minimal damage. K'nara spells the creatures doom however, as she steps forward and nearly decapitates the dire wolf with Lucia. (Save your spell Figment)
As the last dire wolf falls, the flickering that was present in the sky stops, and the Talons are left standing in the dark. After a moment though, your eyes adjust, and you notice that the moon sheds an eerie red glow over the Wold.
Figment Wednesday October 24th, 2001 3:47:22 PM
The mage releases his invisibility spell and saves his magic missle. He takes a look at Dakar. "It would appear the death of Domi had a great impact on his clerics. I would daresay Dakar is not the only one that has be driven crazy.". He looks into the sky "Looks like this is a night of evil. We would do well to be on guard until day breaks - if it breaks... I would suggest we leave the wolves and move away from here. Any beasts - evil or otherwise - would most likely be interested in a free meal.". He looks at the teeth of the wolves and tries to determine if they could have been the animals that took out the elves. He also looks around for any sign of magic being used in the area (since the elves were fallen upon by a teleport or some other similar magic...). As if in afterthought he mentions "I could use some healing if anyone has any spells. Also, I'd recommend we not heal Dakar in case we have to subdue him again. He's tough, I doubt he'll be concerned with the pain. A weakened Dakar is still a formidable adversary, you know..."
Lian (still down 12 HP) Wednesday October 24th, 2001 6:47:39 PM
"This Dakar person, was he a friend of yours?"
Giving the wolf carcus one last, very hard kick, Lian slumps to his knees, closes his eyes and begins to meditate in the middle of the battle field. Blood still seeping from the gash on his left leg, the pain, that at one point seemed to almost consume Lian, subsides and his face grows calm and peaceful. Nothing can rouse him, save another God dying.
Olana Wednesday October 24th, 2001 10:20:19 PM
Looking up to the sky for a moment, the elf starts to get upset. "Why are all these horrible things happening? And why would Dakar attack us like that. He wouldn't... he just wouldn't. It's like it's all a bad dream." She's obviously very shocked at all thats going on.
Milo Thursday October 25th, 2001 2:22:41 AM
Walking up to Olana, Milo pats her back gently, "Alemi will guide us through... even in times as dark as these." Praying out loud, "Wise Alemi, light our way, that we may pass through darkened day." And light appears on Milo's short sword, that he holds up. With a sagely smile, the diminutive patriarch holds his blade aloft, "Lets make our own light, as this won't last long." Milo indicates the light spell on his sword. "Anyone have a torch or something?"
K'Nara Thursday October 25th, 2001 6:51:16 AM
Still breathing hard from her exertions, the leader of the Talons still mustered up a wry chuckle at Figmentary's words...in spite of the fact that her own soul felt as wounded as poor Dakar looked.
"Aye, mage, that he is." she agreed, then slid down to her own knees with a grimace. "What healing magics have we, then? I...do believe that I am in need of some, myself..." Her hazel eyes range the faces of Dakar and then Brother Bertram.
"And you, cleric of Domi..?" K'Nara asked of Bertram. "How are YOU faring in the face of...this?" The female fighter's free hand gestured around her, indicating the scene of the attack as well as the eerie sight of Yrth's two moons glaring down upon all, colored as blood.
Flueterflam Thursday October 25th, 2001 9:22:09 AM
"I would also be much better off if someone would help heal me." Fluet looks around questioninglyat the others.
The bard frowns before long and starts to sulk. He mumbles just loudly enough for the others to hear him. "I suppose even if I could be healed it wouldn't matter. Afterall, I can't even fight a wolf without almost dying."
Blessed Meetings... (DM Chris) Thursday October 25th, 2001 11:00:24 AM
The wind seems to pick up slightly, rustling through the leaves and branches of the Culverwood as you stand in the aftermath of Domi's death. Then suddenly, as if from nowhere, and everywhere at once, you hear a voice, "Harumph... looks to me as if the Emerald Talons have been declawed... eh? Heh hee hee... No matter... you are needed." A nimbus of light appears around a huge oak tree standing off to one side of the 'battlefield' and from its woody interior steps an old, but familiar form. The Heirophant. "Hmmm, the champions of Emerald City are indeed split in this cataclysm, but let me make you whole again." Moving from Talon to Talon, the elderly druid lays hands on all, healing you completely of your wounds. When he gets to Dakar, he pulls a vial from his robes, and when he opens it, all can smell an earthy pungence. He allows just a bit to trickle down the dwarf's throat, then heals the wounded Dakar as well. "This draught will make him rest till all is right again. I will take him with me, to my grove, where he will remain until such a time as he is called. You have more pressing issues however. Emerald City is in upheaval, and Parnoth is no where to be seen. The people you claim to protect are in dire need... and incredible danger. Go to them. I can open a pathway for you that will speed your way there."
Figment Thursday October 25th, 2001 12:45:10 PM
The mage looks to Olana and says "Well, my good elf. My suspicion for Dakar's actions is that the god he served just died. It probably drove him insane. I doubt he'll even remember his actions this night.". He opens up his pack and pulls out his 2 torches that emit light continually. "These should do the trick Milo. They will last forever - barring disasters...".
He accepts the healing of the being of grat power, graciously saying "Thank you" as he heals his wounds. "Is there anything you can tell us about the city guard? Are they and the obsidian trying to maintain order - or are they slaughtering the non-human denizens of the city?".
Figment,cont. Thursday October 25th, 2001 1:33:46 PM
As the Heirophant continues to help the party he asks as question in a very troubled voice. "What does this mean, Mohannin. For the Wold I mean. How will the gods maintain a balance of power with one of the major good gods being destroyed? What are we to do?".
Lian Thursday October 25th, 2001 2:18:31 PM
Still sitting and at peace. A soft, slow breatheing coming from him.
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 d10+5=15 Thursday October 25th, 2001 5:17:15 PM
Bertram tends to his wounds when he realizes a stranger is in his presence. One with a strange taint of evil. Looking closely he sees the illusion for what it is. An arbinger of death and destruction. Jumping to his feet, gripping his axe, he strikes at the 'druid' with all of his might. "Talons to me! This is no healer but The Dark One himself! Come to taunt us! FOR DOMI!"
Olana Thursday October 25th, 2001 7:12:35 PM
The elf nods at Milo and gets a grip - walking over to Fluet, she helps him bind his wounds until one of the healers can get to him. "Don't worry," she says with a grin. "We're not about to let you croak."
"Im sure you're right, Figment," she says, snapping off a bit of bandage while patching Fluet up. "Let's hope Dakar will be alright." She finishes with a sigh.
As the heirophant appears and delivers his message, she listens quietly and nods, glad that the dwarf will be taken care of. Right until Bertram 'goes wild'.
"Bertram! What's going on?"
Ingrge Thursday October 25th, 2001 8:46:12 PM
having been in deep thought for the last bit, Ingrge comes too as Bertram makes his crazed move. Not really concerned that he can actually hit, let alone hurt, The Heirophant, looks at the others and then casts sleep on Bertram. DC 14
Flueterflam Thursday October 25th, 2001 10:05:46 PM
The bard cheers up considerably when the Heirophant appears. Before he is even healed, he becomes happy and giddy. When Mohannin heals them all, Fluet settles down somewhat.
"Thank you so much for your help. I hope that I can again come visit you in your grove after I have a chance. Your teachings are wise beyond measure. Please keep an ear out...wait, I suppose I should say, a leaf out...hehe, for me. As I do not know how to contact you when I have the chance."
As an after thought, Fluet nods to Olana. "Thank you." He blushes at his apparent rudeness of not acknowledging her kindess.
Milo Friday October 26th, 2001 3:26:21 AM
Milo gratefully accepts the heirophant's healing, however, when Bertram seems to snap the halfling groans, "Oh dear... not again."
K'Nara d20=15 d20+1=21 d3+1=3 d20+1=21 d3+1=4 d20+1=16 d3+1=2 Friday October 26th, 2001 7:16:48 AM
Having just been healed of the damage one cleric of Domi wreaked upon herself, K'Nara was none too eager to subject herself to more damage from another such cleric--so she strained her average brain to sift through the clues about Bertram's behavior to see if she could glean whether the earthkin was right...or whether he was suffering from a delayed reaction to the death of his patron deity. (OOC: K'Nara rolled an Intelligence check for this, with a result of 15. If she thinks that Bertram is going nuts, too, then K'Nara will deliver a karate chop to Bertram in an effort to knock him out [-4 for a called shot]--if she believes Bertram's ranting, however, her blow will be directed towards the Heirophant. Either way, it's a damn good hit! ;D)
A Calming Word... (DM Chris) d20+8=27 d20+8=10 Friday October 26th, 2001 10:47:47 AM
Bertram swings at the Heirophant, though his blow bounces harmlessly of Mohannin's woody hide. The sleep spell washes over the dwarf with no effect, and seeing the Heirophant as he has always been, K'nara swings, connecting solidly. Then Mohannin's voice takes on an odd timber as Bertram stalks near, and he speaks to the dwarf soothingly, "Come friend you will find no enemy in me, let us be at peace here in the wild where we each may be as we truly are." (Bertram made his save vs. the sleep spell with DC 27. Mohannin cast Charm person on Bertram, the Will save is DC 24... though I made both saves for you, as I need to forward the action, and you failed. Regardless of your perception of the druid, you see him as a trusted friend and ally, for the moment) Laying a hand on Bertram's shoulder, Mohannin heals the damage from K'nara's blow.
Turning back to the group, "Domi's clerics everywhere have succumbed to dementia of one form or another in the wake of their god's death. I would take Brother Bertram with me as well to rest if he were not so desperately needed for the upcoming challenges. I say, be wary of him and any other cleric who professes to worship Domi in the days to come." Turning to Figment, "The city guard are in complete disarray, and Obsidian have all but disappeared for the moment. My guess is that Parnoth is in council with them." And then to Flueterflam, "Yes, I too will long for the days when we can rest merrily in peace and happiness, but until then you all are needed." Turning to the great oak that he stepped from before, the Heirophant touches the bark with his staff, and the tree begins to glow with a faint nimbus. "Step into the oak, and you shall be in Emerald City where you are needed most, for the moment. Be careful, as chaos reigns, and evil is everywhere." That said the druid touches Dakar, there is a shimmer and the two are gone. The glowing oak lay before you.
(Experience is coming for the last two weeks, nominations for hero points should be emailed to me ASAP.)
Figment Friday October 26th, 2001 12:11:37 PM
The mage gathers himself up and waits his turn to step through the gate. "I'd say we get there and go find our contacts again. Maybe that elf we rescued will be cooridinating a peace keeping effort.".
Flueterflam Friday October 26th, 2001 2:40:25 PM
"The sooner we get there, the sooner and easier the mess gets handled." To himself, "...hopefully." Fluet moves over to the oak and waits for the others to be prepared. "I'll go first." It is apparent that the bard regards the Heirophant's words as the best course of action.
Brother Bertram Friday October 26th, 2001 2:41:45 PM
Bertram looks about with a confused air. "I am terribly sorry for all of this, but there was something in his wording that convinced me that he truly was the Dark One. Obviously it was a foolish mistake and one that I will have to attone for. Bertram looks a bit bitter as he adds, "But attone to who? It appears I need a new line of work". He fingers his Holy Symbol of Domi for a moment before shaking his head sadly and picking up his axe from the ground.
Olana Friday October 26th, 2001 7:51:07 PM
Olana's wide-eyed expressions move from shocked, to calm, to worry, and then to curiosity as she regards Bertram. So the Hierophant said he might go bonkers at any minute? Lovely. This dead god business was getting out of hand.
"Don't worry, Bertram. Everything will be alright," she says, recovering her cheery manner. "After you."
Whispering to Ingrge as they go through the portal, she says - "I'd like to get a hold of whoever is responsible for killing Domi. I'd give him a piece of my mind, I can tell you." She sounds quite serious.
Ingrge Friday October 26th, 2001 8:03:16 PM
Walking along with Olanna, Ingrge nods and then with a wry smile answers her, "Yeah, why not? Who ever it is, seems to be collecting pieces of minds, from all over and I know he has taken my "Peace" of mind."
Lian Friday October 26th, 2001 10:29:31 PM
As he opens his eyes, he says, "Uh, what is going on? I am very confused." "Walk though... a tree? Sure! Can someone explain this?" Lian stands up and walks over to Milo, looking at him expecting an answer.
Milo Saturday October 27th, 2001 1:57:27 PM
Smiling at Lian, Milo reaches up to pat the young elf on the shoulder, and guide him toward to the tree at the same time. "It's magic my boy, defies explanation, you just have to trust it is all... you know... take it on faith." The halfling whistles a merry tune. "Hey perhaps we should take the horses with us." He collects reins and then moves to lead a couple of the horses through the tree, all the while talking soothingly to the animals.
K'Nara Monday October 29th, 2001 6:57:45 AM
"My soul for an undisturbed nap!" the leader of the Talons sighed with a twist of her lips. She squeezed the morose Bertram's shoulder, catching his eye as she spoke.
"We've all been taught that Domi arose to his immortal station from the humblest of beginnings," she reminded the cleric, "And so the fact that he has died--while horrible and rather spectacular--should not come as too much of a surprise. The one truth of a warrior's life IS that--no matter HOW good you are--there is always someone better. BUT..." Here the tall human woman's face took on a stoic expression:
"...While Domi is dead, the ideals that he personified are still VERY much alive...and will remain so for as long as there are people left to believe in them." K'Nara looked around at the other Emerald Talons.
"Now, come on, everybody--the Emerald Kingdom needs us now." Without hesitation, the human bladesinger walked over to the magicked tree and stepped through the portal the Heirophant had conjured.
Night of Fear
Day of the Dead... (DM Chris) Monday October 29th, 2001 10:49:19 AM
Stepping through the tree, you experience a wrenching feeling in your gut as if accelerating to speeds beyond your imagination, and then suddenly it stops, and for a moment, the world around you moves as if in slow motion. You and your mounts stand in the middle of the street, right in front of the prison block that you broke into last time you were here. People are running everywhere in what looks like a mad dash to get indoors. Looking away from the prison block, you see off to your right what looks like a crater, where the temple of Domi use to be. Everything is dark, just as in the forest, and the darkness seems to press in and weigh on your spirit as well as your mind. As you come out of your disorientation, you notice a small detachment of city guard fighting for their lives against creatures that can only be described as nightmarish. Slime coated purplish skin is stretched across gaunt frames that move with deadly speed, and strike with long black claw-like nails, and bite with blackened teeth, honed to a needle's point. Some of the guards appear to be frozen in place, and the others are panicking, fighting for the lives of their comrades. As the scene begins to speed up again, you can now hear the sounds of screaming coming from all around. The stench of burning wood and flesh is thick in the air, and you see that another group of these hideous, undead creatures has come out of the crater that was the temple, and spotted you. THEY CHARGE!!!
Figment (Spell Focus Feat: -2 to save for creatures) 6d6(4+3+6+6+6+5)=30 Monday October 29th, 2001 11:36:18 AM
The mage decides to not waste time and hopes to give his friends the advantage they need to survive. He casts a fireball on the approaching purple slimy things. As it explodes it is clear that it is quite intense (30 DMG) - one of his best ever. "Let's tak'em fast guys. Dark creatures can really mess you up quickly. I'd say we'd do well to help the city guard too. Maybe we can rally them to our side to fight.".
Flueterflam d20+4=14 d8+4=9 Monday October 29th, 2001 6:39:26 PM
The bard is happy he did not decided to unstring his bow. He nocks an arrow and shoots at the closest monster he spots. (if Hits AC 14 then for 9hps).
Fluet moves farther away from the monsters and tries to place himself behind the rest of the group.
Ingrge 5d6(4+5+6+3+5)=23 Monday October 29th, 2001 6:49:19 PM
Taking in the scene with a controlled look of horror, Ingrge smiles in satisfaction, as he watches his fellow mage rip off the same spell that immediately comes to Ingrge's lips (Fireball; spell mastery) and soon a second fireball follows Figments into the charging beasts. (23 point damage, 12 if save DC16)
Brother Bertram Monday October 29th, 2001 9:46:43 PM
Bertram stares grimly at the former temple site for just a moment before starting towards the fighting guardsmen when he sees even more of the horrors coming towards the Talons. He can no more than take a step when he staggers back as two large fireballs blast into the monsters' midst
Olana d20+8=28 d20+8=25 d8+1=9 d8+1=3 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 12:29:51 AM
Olana gives a wry grin at Figment's comment.
"Well - I never thought I'd be fighting 'alongside' this lot," she says referring to the guards.
Flanking Fluet, she lets loose with her own bow at the yucky creatures. ((AC 28,25, Dam 12))
Milo d20+7=20 d20+7=22 d6=6 d6=3 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 12:36:26 AM
Taking one quick step next to where Olana and Fluet are standing Milo whips out his bow, firing twice in rapid succession. "Pretty good shot for a halfling." Milo grins. (Hit AC 20 and 22 for 6 and 3 hps respectively)
Lian Tuesday October 30th, 2001 4:39:19 AM
Not knowing the scene, or even the city, Lian looks in horror at the new challenge before them. Knowing now what he does about his friends and thier archery skills, not to mention the ability to cast destructive spells, Lian steps into defend from any of the onslaught that may approach his friends. Lian makes a mental note of how many there are coming at them. Almost in an uncharacteristically loud voice, and nearly a joking tone, Lian smirks and says; "Hey Milo, I think that magic explaination is at hand!" "What are these things?!" Lian prepares for the approaching doom.
(OOC: Defensive Standard action, raising Lian's AC to 23, and Readying in case any nasty slimy purple thingy-mabob comes into reach, he will strike)
K'Nara d20+12=20 d10+4=12 d6=3 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 8:23:23 AM
K'Nara slid from Poki's back and let the seasoned mount have his head, trusting to Poki's horse sense to keep the equine from harm. Sighting their obvious foes, the leader of the Emerald Talons told the others in her party to defend the city first, then themselves.
"LUCIA!" K'Nara's order activated her Flaming Sword as she, too, prepared for the charge of the slime critters.
(OOC: K'Nara will wait for the critters to come to her since they are charging--if one survives to come within range, her attack roll hits AC20 for a 12hp damage plus 3hp fire damage.)
Dawn Comes Crashing (DM Chris) Tuesday October 30th, 2001 10:52:31 AM
The first group of creatures are completely obliterated as the twin fireballs erupt in their presence. However there is no time to relax as another group of the nightmarish, slime coated, black talon wielding monsters emerge from the crater where the temple of Domi use to be. In the distance you can hear the sound of a large bell from the temple of Alemi, signaling the morning. Though morning it may be, the sun is completely absent from its daily duty, and darkness seems ever more oppressive. As the creatures emerge, the main group, number eight, head towards the Emerald Talons, but a smaller group seems distracted by something down another street and break off to head that direction. Screams are heard echoing off the walls.
(Note: Any light source you currently employ has its radius reduced by half)
Flueterflam d20+4=11 d8+4=5 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 11:10:56 AM
"This might not be doing any good," as Fluet is nocking another arrow. "Who knows how many of these things will keep coming?" He fires at one of the new slime things while waiting for some kind of decisive action to come from anyone. (OOC: did not take into account the current darkness penalty if it applies now. HIt AC 11 for 5)
Figment Tuesday October 30th, 2001 12:20:37 PM
Looks at the lack of progress they made toward taking out these things. "Clerics, can you curse - or perhaps bless the ground that these things are coming out of? They may decide not to emerge if they have to cross holy ground!". The mage decides that he's going to hold off these things as long as he can and casts yet another spell, opting for a defensive spell since his only big spell left (cast during the wolf encounter) is "Stinking Cloud" and probably won't work agianst undead. A large sticky mass of webs covers the hole these creatures are coming out of, hopefully preventing the exit of any more for a little while. "I have no more large spells to use against these things. I'll try to prevent any more from getting out!".
Ingrge (Flaming Sphere; 5 rounds) 2d6(4+6)=10 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 6:17:41 PM
With a satisfactory nod of his head at he and Figments fiery display, He adds to Figment's comments. I too am now out of the big guns but I still have a few tricks to play. With that said, Ingrge starts chanting again and soon there is a 3 ft round fireball dancing in front of him. Pointing at one of the creatures, preferably one not webbed, he sends it veering straight to it. (10 points damage reflex save DC 15)(four rounds left)
Brother Bertram d20+6=21 d10+5=13 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 7:49:56 PM
Bertram sees the next wave rushing forward and grips his axe, horror washing over him and he murmurs to himself. Talons standing near him hear one word amongst the others.."Attone". Bertram rushes around the fires and moves forward towards the advancing horde.
(OOC hit for 13)
Olana Tuesday October 30th, 2001 8:50:44 PM
Quickly re-loading, Olana fires again, this time watching to see if her arrows are having any effect, her aim somewhat more difficult in the gloom. (Sheesh - AC 13, 14, for 5 and 8 dam)
"I wonder where that lot are going??" she yells as some of the nasties shamble off down another street. "I hope whoever is down there can defend themselves!"
((The rolls don't show because I got booted - managed to copy the text before it happened. ::sticking pins in her AOL dolly::))
Lian d20+6=23 d8-1=7 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 8:54:46 PM
Lian watches Bertram advance. Without hesitation the young elf follows the cleric of the great Domi. The overly enthusiastic elf rushes to meet the same creature as Brother Bertram. "Domi lives in you Bertram, this is perhaps the greatest challenge of you life. Meet it!" The words flow from the young elfs mouth, even surprising him.
Hitting it for 7 points of damage.
K'Nara d20+12=23 d10+5=9 d6=3 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 7:14:44 AM
The female fighter's sharp hazel eyes didn't miss the split-up of the current group of slime-oids.
"Talons--shift the battle THIS way!" K'Nara hollered as she swung her bastard sword about in a combative arc. (OOC: strikes AC23 for 9hp damage & 3hp fire damage.) Following her own advice, the human bladesinger--though she continued to battle the emerging horrors--steadily shifted her position so that she and the rest of the party would be able to follow the smaller group of slime-oids that had broken away from the main force...as soon as this battle would allow, that was...
Milo d20+8=11 d20+8=19 d6+1=3 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 10:43:50 AM
Whipping out his short sword, Milo moves to flank the creature that K'nara attacked allowing the magic of the blade to take him over. His first blow swings wide, but his second strikes true. (Hit AC 19 for 3 hps)
Ghoulish nasties... Happy Halloween.. (DM Chris) d20+2=5 d20+2=4 d20+2=9 d20+2=21 d3=1 d20+2=12 d20+2=9 d20+2=12 d20+2=14 d20+2=13 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 10:58:07 AM
Flueterflam shoots at the creature, who nimbly dodges aside, charging straight at the bard, swinging a claw only to miss badly.
Figment casts his web spell, though he now realizes that the hole is much larger than it looks from his vantage, as the web only covers a small sections at this end. One of the creatures charging the party launches itself at the wizard, also missing badly.
The undead critter charging towards Ingrge is burnt badly as the flaming sphere collides with him. Though the creature seems oblivious to the injury as it swings at Ingrge, raking him across his shoulder. (Ingrge takes 1 hp and needs to make a Fortitude save DC 14 or be paralyzed)
Bertram and Lian collide into the undead creature, destroying it in their attack. However, two more charge forward to take its place, attacking the dwarf and elf to no avail as they miss.
Olana's second arrow strikes true, and the creature rushes her madly to attack. Missing.
Teaming up on a single creature, K'nara brutally decapitates the thing as Milo takes its kneecap off. Destroying the creature. Two more charge in however to take its place, attacking the bladesinger and halfling to no avail as they miss.
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=3 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 12:29:52 PM
The mage moves back from the creature as it stumbles by, tryig to prevent it from closing on him. He shifts in the direction K'Nara orders as he blasts the attacking purple thing with his magic missle. (13 DMG)
Flueterflam Wednesday October 31st, 2001 2:56:08 PM
The bard does not attack. In fact, he runs as quickly as possible over to where K'Nara and the others are going.
Brother Bertram d20+6=20 d10+5=10 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 4:39:38 PM
Bertram takes heart at the young elf's words, and more importantly, at the satisfying sound of his axe hitting the foul creature. He dodges another beast and returns a swing feeling yet another creature collide with his axe.
(OOC 10 Damage)
Olana d20+6=23 d20+6=15 d8+1=7 d6+1=5 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 6:53:47 PM
"Ugh!" exclaims the elf at the zombie or whatever it was that rushed her. Too close for arrows, she whips out both blades and starts chopping away. ((AC 23, 15 for 7 and 5 Dam)) "Die you slimy horror," she says. "I bet you're not supposed to be alive anyway!"
Noting K'Nara's cry, she will aim to move in that direction.
Ingrge (flaming sphere)round 2 d20+5=19 2d6(5+5)=10 d20+8=18 d6+4=6 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 7:26:57 PM "Folbre's Whiskers!!!" As the beast scratches him Ingrge pulls out his staff, and while the flaming ball still sits on the beasties back (10 more points DC 15), wails on the beast with his stick.(AC 18 for 6 more points)
Lian d20+6=18 d8-1=2 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 11:28:34 PM
"Bertram! Let us fight as we move to K'naras position." Lian strikes out at the ghoul with his elbow. Hitting AC 18 for 2 points of damage. Then he moves to K'naras position.
Milo d20+1=15 2d6(2+5)+2=9 Thursday November 1st, 2001 4:01:06 AM
Frustrated by the lack of damage his sneak attack caused the creature, Milo suddenly remembers something from his recent studies. Stepping back from the undead creatures, he grasps his ruby pendant, the holy symbol of Alemi, in his hand, and presents it boldly, "By Alemi's might you shall turn..." (OOC: Rolled turning check for my level +1 for up to 9 HD of undead)
K'Nara d20+12=30 d10+5=11 d6=6 Thursday November 1st, 2001 7:25:46 AM
"Yes--this way--fight as we stick together..!" K'Nara shouted as her colleagues maneuvered with her. Now to be able to fight off enough of these things to go after the smaller contingent...
...but first, the purple beasties in the Talons' faces had to be taken care of. The woman warrior gritted her teeth and swiped furiously at the slimy thing closest to her, hearing (and smelling--p.u.!!!) the sizzle of undead flesh as Lucia connected once more. (OOC: hits AC30 for 11hp damage and 6hp fire damage! BBQ Ghoul, anyone..? ;D)
Where Chaos Reigns (DM Chris) Thursday November 1st, 2001 11:28:17 AM
Figment's magic missles slam into the creature, and it crumples before him, just as Ingrge's well timed blow destroys his undead opponent as well. Bertram's axe swings true cutting the creature in half, and Olana's sword blows dice up a fourth creature. The Talons are truly amazing as they unleash their combined skill and might upon their enemies. Lian's unarmed attack strikes, causing minor damage as the blow make a sickening crunching sound. Ichor and goo spurt out over the monk's hand. K'nara's swing decapitates another of the creatures, leaving the one attacking Milo and the one that chases Flueterflam as he makes a dash towards K'nara and Milo. Just as the bard and his pursuer are getting close, Milo turns, and with holy symbol upraised, verily shines in the darkness with the holy might of Alemi, and the final three creatures crumble to dust.
As the Talons run towards the screams, they can definitely see that the temple of Domi is sunk, collapsed into the gigantic hole that is its final resting place... Getting closer, you see figures of clerics staggering around the perimeter of the hole. Some are in a daze, some rend at their clothes and hair, and some merely lie upon the ground in a fetal position, convulsing in shock. You have no time to think though as you hear screams... the screams of the good folk coming from a house. One window is stuck half way open, and you see people inside, trying to avoid the deadly grasp of the ghouls that stalk them through the house.
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=2 d4+1=5 Thursday November 1st, 2001 11:54:34 AM
The mage keeps his distance from the things and casts another magic missle. They hit the first goul he sees through the window. (12 DMG)
Ingrge 4d4(4+2+4+2)+4=16 Thursday November 1st, 2001 2:24:13 PM
Knowing, that is rolling ball of fire won't follow him long enough to get where they are going, Ingrge sends his ball of fire toward the pit where these creatures came out of, igniting the webs and hopefully catching any other beasties unaware. As they approach the remains of the temple and see the baddies attacking the people, Ingrge takes out his wand and pointing it at the nearest ghooul lets fly with tw charges, sending 4 balls of power flying unerringly into the beast. (magic missile 16 points)
Brother Bertram Thursday November 1st, 2001 4:15:16 PM
Seeing his brethren staggering about like children strikes rage into Bertram's heart. With a mighty roar he lets loose his battle cry. "WARRIORS OF DOMI, TO ME! WE SHALL PREVAIL!" Bertram hears the cries of folks trapped inside a nearby house and moves in that direction, sounding his cry over and over as he moves to save innocent lives.
Olana d20+3=18 Thursday November 1st, 2001 9:53:12 PM
"Oh dear!" exclaims the elf in dismay on seeing the clerics of Domi. "They're all going mad, too!"
At the house, she waits until Figment's magic has whistled past, and then attempts to break down the stuck window (STR Check DC 18), hopefully giving those inside chance to escape at least, all the while looking for a way in besides the window.
Milo Thursday November 1st, 2001 10:46:16 PM
Coming out of his divine trance, Milo shakes himself into coherency, and then turns to follow his friends, running as fast as his little legs will carry him.
K'Nara d20=20 d3+1=3 d10+5=9 d20+12=27 d10+5=15 d6=3 Friday November 2nd, 2001 7:19:43 AM
"Forget the clerics for now--we can't help them yet!" K'Nara ordered as she moved through the area. Her eyes quickly assessed the house that was invaded by the ghouls. "We have to help the people in the house!"
(K'Nara would immediately add her own "flying kick" attack to the door along with Lian's. If the kicky monk happens to have opened the door, however, her attack would be her usual flaming-sword-on-the-nearest-ghoul type. The rolls would come out like this:
Kicking in the door: natural 20+1=21 to hit; 3hp damage.
Hitting at a ghoul with Lucia: hits AC32 (crit hit on AC27); sword does 9+15=24hp damage; fire damage is 3hp.)
Flueterflam Friday November 2nd, 2001 10:47:35 AM
Thanking Milo for the help, Fluet continues on with the group. He whips out his short sword and follows Olana. He remains wary of any monster or ghost the appears.
Lian Friday November 2nd, 2001 11:10:09 AM
Lian rushes the house door with a flying kick near door handle hoping it'll give way under the attack. (Posted privately prior to K'nara's post)
Screams in the Attic (DM Chris) d20+2=10 d20+2=9 d20+2=11 d20+2=6 Friday November 2nd, 2001 11:23:06 AM
Cutting loose with their magical assault, Figment badly injures one of the attacking ghouls, while Ingrge completely obliterates one.
Olana breaks the window in her attempt to force it open, though she successfully creates another way in and out of the house. One which is promptly used by a ghoul who rushes the offending elf. As it hits the ground outside, it attempts to take a swipe at Olana, missing.
Between K'nara and Lian, the front door bursts open, and the sight before them is truly loathe to behold. A pair of ghouls are bent over the bodies of two dead elves, feasting on their flesh. The light from Lucia shines off of their feral eyes as their heads snap up to view the intruders. K'nara's critical blow literally splits one of the ghouls in half, though the entire scene gives Lian and K'nara pause as the stench is nearly overwhelming. (Lian and K'nara make Fortitude saves DC 15 to avoid losing your lunch) The one ghould that remains, lashes out ineffectually against Lian. Screams can be heard coming from upstairs as well as down.
Flueterflam, Milo, and Bertram reach the house to see the door busted open, the window busted open, and Olana face to face with a ghoul in the street.
Lian d20+4=8 d20+6=16 d8-1=1 Friday November 2nd, 2001 2:21:33 PM
Lian leans gracefully to one side of the door and discards the contents of his stomach. Failed Fort Save of 8! Then looking at K'nara, Lian says; "Let us send this one back to where it came from!" Lian strikes out at the creature with a sharp heel kick to its head. Hitting AC 16 for 1 WHOLE point of damage! Lian shouts past the ghoul upstairs, "We are here to help you, have hope!"
Ingrge d20+5=16 Friday November 2nd, 2001 6:31:26 PM
"Figment, Fluet help Olanna and then all of you get inside." That said, he rushes in the door and bolts up the stairs to where the screams ar emmanating from. (fortitude roll 16)
Olana d20+6=26 d20+6=17 d8+1=2 d6+1=6 Friday November 2nd, 2001 7:58:00 PM
"Ooooh, you disgusting thing!" says the elf as the creature leaps out of the window. "How dare you! Get back to your grave!"
Long sword and short sword come into play as she stabs at the ghoul. ((AC 25 for 2 Dam, AC 17 for 6 Dam))
Milo d20+10=28 d20+8=28 d20+8=21 d20+8=28 d6+1=4 d6+1=5 Friday November 2nd, 2001 8:08:13 PM
Like an arrow shot from an elven bow, Milo bolts up to the door, somersaulting between K'nara's legs, and pinwheeling himself into a flanking position on the other side of the ghoul at the doorway. Oblivious to the stench, he sets his short sword in motion, striking the undead critter soundly twice. "Alemi's wrath be upon you and all your fell kind." The halfling looks pissed. (OOC: Made a tumble check DC 28, Fort save DC 28, hit AC 21 & 28 with the short sword of speed for 4 and 5 hps respectively)
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 Saturday November 3rd, 2001 3:12:03 PM
The mage rushes into the house. He casts his last magic missile spell at whatever gouls are still standing. He splits them between multiple gouls if any of them look like they can be taken out with less than all 3 missiles. (Take out the weakest, remainder at other opponent, hold spell if all are dead.
Flueterflam d20+3=21 d6+5=9 d20+9=26 Sunday November 4th, 2001 12:43:45 AM
Fluet nods to Ingrge. He rushes the ghoul attacking Olana, without slowing down. As the bard is about to slam into the ghoul, he swings his short sword as hard as he can into it's head. (OOC: Hit AC 21 for 9 hps)
With the force he dealt both himself and the ghoul, Fluet rolls into a defensive postion. (Tumble: DC 26)
Brother Bertram Sunday November 4th, 2001 8:57:12 PM
Seeing the Talons managing the house, Bertram attempts once again to rally the clerics of Domi, trying to prevent a slaughter before he rejoins the Talons. "Clerics of Domi! Stand Together Brothers!"
K'Nara d20+4=21 d20+12=18 d10+5=13 d6=4 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:39:16 AM
K'Nara's nostrils flare at the horrible smell of the ex-ghoul--it was almost as bad as Parnoth's breath! (OOC: makes Fort save at 21.)
"Sorry, no--I do NOT feel like dancing with the likes of YOU!!!" she snapped, slashing grimly at the ghoul that was blocking the hallway. (OOC: hits AC18 for 13hp damage and 4hp fire damage.)
"Milo--Ingrge--upstairs!" K'Nara ordered. "Lian--Figment...follow me!" With those words, the tall human woman scrambled down the stairs towards the sounds of screaming that she heard from the lower level.
Its a Scream Baby! (DM Chris) d20+3=12 d20+3=6 d20+3=18 d6+1=5 Monday November 5th, 2001 10:34:05 AM
The ghoul at the door shrugs off Lian's feeble blow, but is surprised by Milo who comes flipping into the room to strike at the creature from behind. As K'nara impales the creature on her blade, Figment's magic missles slam into him, finishing the undead creature off.
Outside, Olana and Flueterflam team up, overwhelming their ghoul with a flurry of blows that sends it tumbling to the ground in so many pieces.
As Bertram continues to attempt to rally the clerics of Domi, he sees that they are content in their misery, paying no attention to his cries.
Ingrge bounds over the dead ghouls (and commoners) in the doorway, heading up the stairs. as he reaches the top of the staircase, he spies three ghouls attempting to claw a door open. Screaming and crying can be heard inside, as someone is trying to keep the door shut on the creatures. Whipping around, the ghouls see Ingrge, and charge the elf madly. One manages to bite Ingrge, leaving a nasty looking wound. (Hit Ingrge for 5 hps)
Moving past the entrance, K'nara sees that the stairs in the house only go up, however a crashing sound, like so many pots and pans colliding with one another, can be heard emanating from the door to her immediate right. It is followed by screams.
Flueterflam Monday November 5th, 2001 12:38:22 PM
Fluet grabs Olana and begins running towards the front doors where the others are. "Lets stay close. I don't trust anything here." Once the elf is definitely keeping up with him, he lets go of her and prepares for any ghouls that appear inside the house.
Figment Monday November 5th, 2001 4:14:36 PM
The mage follows K'Nara wherever she goes and prepares to cast.
Brother Bertram Monday November 5th, 2001 7:02:23 PM
Seeing that the his brothers are hopelessly lost he turns sadly away then starts towards the screams emanating from upstairs. Gathering his resolve and a firm grip on his axe he lets out a roar and starts up the stairs.
Ingrge d20+10=28 d20+10=16 d6+3=8 d6+3=8 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:21:30 PM
Faced with three opponents, Ingrge whips out his rapier for the narrow space and focussing on the beast that just bit him swings a chopping blow at the beast. (AC28, possible crit. crit roll AC16, for 8 points or 16 points if crit). As he strikes he calls over his shoulder, Milo, I could use a little help up hear!"
Olana Monday November 5th, 2001 7:29:06 PM
Olana gives Fluet a grin and nods, her eyes full of the fire of battle - and follows him into the house. "K'Nara!" she yells - "You want us up or downstairs?" all the while looking for something nasty to stab.
Milo d20+1=15 2d6(4+5)+2=11 Monday November 5th, 2001 8:52:59 PM
Running up the stairs, Milo yells, "I'm coming Ingrge... I'm coming...." Seeing the trio of ghouls attacking Ingrge, "Oh my stars..." Milo steps up next to the elf and again boldly presents his holy symbol to the undead, "By Alemi's wrath, stand back and receive justice." (OOC: Turned my level +1 for 11 HD)
Lian d20+10=20 Monday November 5th, 2001 10:33:12 PM
Lian follows the warrior woman close behind, and expecting just about anything, he moves cautiously and defensively down the hall. He also realizes that Figment is preparing some strange stuff from his pouch of goodies, so Lian will stay out of the way. (Defensive standard action while moving raising AC to 20, or higher) "K'nara, what is going on around here? Are these worshippers of Domi that have perished with His death... these un-dead?"
(OOC: Making a volunteery Listen Check to see what other sounds might be heard that may appear strange or out of place, besides the slushing and thumping of rotting-walking corpses, LISTEN of 20)
K'Nara Tuesday November 6th, 2001 7:46:48 AM
"Olana--help Ingrge and Milo!" K'Nara yelled back to the ranger. "I'll scream if we need help down here..!" With this, the female fighter charged towards the kitchen door...
Dust to dust... (DM Chris) Tuesday November 6th, 2001 10:49:45 AM
Entering the house, Flueterflam and Olana are immediately greeted by the grisly mess in the doorway. (Both of you make Fort saves DC 15 or be sick)
Leading the pack downstairs, K'nara enters the dining room to see a quartet of the undead trying to claw their way into the kitchen. Something seems to be blocking the door from the other side however. Gashes and scrapes from their dirty claws completely cover the door. The four of them, turn, somewhat surprised at the appearance of new victims.
Upstairs, Ingrge practically cuts one of the ghouls in half with his rapier, and the creature falls to the floor with ichor dripping from its great open wound. Bertram reaches the top of the stairs just ahead of Milo to witness the one ghoul's destruction, and then Milo is there, holy symbol upraised. The ghouls shriek in terror at the sight of the diminutive patriarch, and then fall into dust. Crying can be heard from behind the door that the ghouls were trying to open.
Figment Tuesday November 6th, 2001 11:02:05 AM
Seeing the new threat - and no victims nearby, the mage pulls out his wand on webbing and zaps all 4 of the goulies with his wellknown sticky spell. He aims it in the middle of the bunch and the webs sread out 40' all over the room. (20' radius). "That ought to hold them until we have more of us to take them out. It at least looks like those in the kitchen are safe. Let's clean up the rest and come back for these. We can also burn them without too much risk of setting the whole place on fire. Perhaps the cleric can turn them to dust as well.".
Ingrge Tuesday November 6th, 2001 5:07:48 PM
Grimacing, Ingrge growls a "thanks" to Milo and Bertram as they come to the rescue. Bertram, do you want to see if you can calm those behind the door before we open it?
Flueterflam d20+1=6 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 6:13:38 PM
Immediately upon getting inside, Fluet notices the horrible smells and sights. He notices it so much, in fact, that he bends over and spills his guts.
"Uuuugggggg...." After he becomes tolerable of the current situation, he looks around groggily for the next ghoul to kill.
Olana d20+3=19 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 6:14:52 PM
Managing to hold onto the contents of her stomach, Olana says - "Upstairs, Fluet!" and bounds up the steps two at a time.
On seeing Ingrge, Milo, Bertram - and no baddies, she asks brightly - "Oh dear! Have we missed the party?"
Milo Tuesday November 6th, 2001 10:33:07 PM
Looking up at Ingrge, Milo looks completely astonished, "I'm not sure I'll ever get use to that... smiting undead with the wrath of Alemi thing." Hefting his short sword, "It makes me feel funny..." Milo's face has quirked up.
Lian d20+4=16 d20+4=8 d8-1=4 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 1:34:16 AM
Lian cries, "Ya'ah!" and leaps towards the nearest creature with a 'flurry of blows'.
First blow possibly hitting, AC 16 for 4 points uf damage. The second, with a 'wiff'.
K'Nara Wednesday November 7th, 2001 6:30:44 AM
K'Nara paused for a second.
"Lucia..!" the leader of the Tines barked, extinguishing her flaming sword. Then she yelled back up the stairs:
"TALK to me, people--have you finished off all the upstairs ghouls? We have four more down here that could use the tender mercies of our cleric of Alemi..!" K'Nara cocked her head to one side, listening for the others to answer her.
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 7th, 2001 8:03:21 AM
Nodding gratefully to Ingrge for making him feel useful, Bertram knocks on the door lightly. "Folks have faith. These horrors are vanquished for the moment. My name is Broth...My Name is Bertram. I do not wish to frighten you, nor do my friends. We mean you only goodwill. Will you let us come in please? Please, Fear not".
Missed 'em by that much... (DM Chris ) d20+2=8 d20+2=7 d20+2=15 d20+2=22 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 10:47:17 AM
Figment's spell goes off practically filling three-quarters of the room with its webby, sticky mass. Three of the ghouls are caught solidly within its coils. However, the fourth manages to slip through a narrow crack in the door he was assaulting, avoiding the spell altogether. A long drawn out scream comes from the kitchen. (Made four saves, three missed with 8, 7, and 15. The fourth rolled 22 however)
Lian jumps into the room swinging at the ghouls only to find himself confronted by this end of a web spell. (Lian make a Reflex save DC 19 to avoid getting stuck.)
Upstairs, on the other side of the blocked door, the crying ceases, as whoever is there calms down. A trembling female voice issues from the room, "Are they all gone?"
Figment Wednesday November 7th, 2001 12:35:17 PM
The mage cures his rotten luck - more to the point the rotten luck of the poor soul on the other side of that door. He yells to K'Nara - unless Lian gets stuck in which case he'll release the spell - "Burn it! We can deal with a burning house better than living gouls!".
Olana Wednesday November 7th, 2001 7:48:48 PM
Figuring that the danger could well be over upstairs, Olana runs back downstairs, raising an eyebrow in alarm - having caught the "Burn it!" part of Figment's conversation.
Flueterflam d20+3=9 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 8:08:49 PM
Being downstairs still, Fluet is startled out of his grogginess, by the scream. The bard runs to the doorway, and uses no caution whatsoever. If he finds any undead, he attempts to slam his body into without even stopping to attack it with his sword. (OOC: not sure how to handle that, rolled DC 9 for melee attack)
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 7th, 2001 8:13:21 PM
"They are gone but for the moment. I am sorry to rush you but we needs make haste to escape before they come back. I swear we mean you no harm but we needs must hurry!"
Lian d20+7=27 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 10:44:21 PM
"Whoa! That was a close one!"
Then Lian, if he can, slips in behind the other ghoul that squeezed into the door.
Milo d20+1=3 Thursday November 8th, 2001 2:16:26 AM
Seeing that everything is okay upstairs, Milo runs back downstairs, "Coming K'nara, I'll be there in a sec." Stopping short at the entrance, Milo is aghast to see the webs covering the entire end of the room. The scream raises the hair on the back of his neck. "Oh dear, we must do something. Grabbing his holy symbol once more, he raises it, and presents it boldly, to no avail. "I think I broke it guys... at least it was working better upstairs. Perhaps cause I'm closer to Alemi upstairs... I know.. someone lift me up." (OOC: Turn check at DC 3 doesn't cut it.)
K'Nara d20+6=25 d10+5=14 d6=6 Thursday November 8th, 2001 8:13:12 AM "LUCIA!!!" K'Nara screamed at the top of her lungs as she brought the bastard sword up and then around--through the Web and into the door that the fourth ghoul squeezed through.
(OOC: I think she's ticked--hits AC25 for 14hp damage and 6hp fire damage.)
If her blow is sufficient to break open the door, K'Nara will follow the fourth ghoul into the kitchen.
Ghoul barbeque... (DM Chris) 2d4(4+4)=8 d20+2=18 d20+2=17 d20+2=15 d20+3=18 d20+3=12 d20+3=21 d6+1=5 Thursday November 8th, 2001 10:43:00 AM
The web goes up in a flash, burning away as K'nara slices through it with her flaming weapon. The ghouls within the flaming web howl as they are burned. The curtains draped over the front window catch fire, and the door bursts open as K'nara slams into it, swinging wide to reveal the kitchen. Pots and pans are strewn everywhere, and the ghoul can be seen dashing around a island counter in the middle of the room. The long drawn out scream abruptly stops. The three smoldering ghouls in the room, charge forward, enraged by their wounds, and attack K'nara, Figment, and Lian, biting at the three heroes. Both K'nara and Figment manage to narrowly avoid being bit, though Lian isn't nearly as lucky as the ghoul bites his shoulder, leaving a wicked looking wound. (Lian take 5 hps damage)
Upstairs, Bertram stands at the door, speaking soothingly to the occupant of the room beyond. She responds, "Okay... I'm comin' out now." Something heavy can be heard moving on the other side of the door, and the door cracks open. A young woman, perhaps in her late teens, peeks through the door at Bertram and Ingrge, and then satisfied that all is safe, steps out of the room. Her clothes are ripped and shredded, and though she is somewhat bruised, she looks otherwise unharmed. "Um... hi... I'm Clarissa. Who are you?"
Figment d20+4=23 d4+1=5 Thursday November 8th, 2001 2:29:38 PM
With most of his spells now depleted, the mage decides a more draconian would be in order. He pulls out his punching dagger and attacks, hoping the fire damage plus his dagger is enough to drop his foe (Hit AC 23 for 5 DMG, no criticals on undead).
Lian d20+4=20 d20+4=20 d8-1=4 d8-1=0 Thursday November 8th, 2001 5:46:37 PM
"Ack!" Lian strikes out at the ghoul who bit him with his 'fists of fury'. (Flurry of blows)
Doing a massive 4 points of damage to ghoul.
(OOC: I need some gauntlets of ogre power or something because this is beginning to blow!)
Olana d20+9=25 d8+1=7 Thursday November 8th, 2001 7:38:27 PM
"Fluet, please be careful," says the elf to the reckless bard before attempting to slice a piece off the nasty gooey thing attacking Lian. (AC 25 Dam 7)
Brother Bertram d20+8=18 Thursday November 8th, 2001 10:11:50 PM
Bertram nods politely and offers his cloak to help cover the womans rent garments. "I am Bertram, a now-former priest of Domi, and this is my boon companion, Ingrge, a member of the Emerald Talons. Evil is still amongst us Miss and we must flee. Are you the only one left in the house Milady?" Bertram keeps his axe readied just in case.
Milo Friday November 9th, 2001 3:44:56 AM
With the doorway covered by much larger PCs, Milo stands back, giving the warriors room to maneuver in. "Hurry... we have to help the poor victim in the kitchen."
K'Nara d20+8=20 d10+5=13 d6=6 Friday November 9th, 2001 7:17:24 AM
The human bladesinger leaps into the kitchen with a battlecry, whirling her flaming bastard sword and slicing viciously at the ghoul by the island.
(OOC: hits AC20 for 13hp damage and 6hp fire damage.)
Ingrge Friday November 9th, 2001 8:39:40 AM
Happy to let Bertram deal with the young lady, Ingrge pushes to the front and with a curt nod at his introduction motions for the two to start following him down the stairs.
Who Wants to Live Forever? (DM Chris) d20+3=8 d20=16 d20=18 d3=1 d3=2 Friday November 9th, 2001 9:57:47 AM
Flueterflam charges into the room, attempting to body slam one of the charred ghouls, who nimbly steps aside, allowing the bard to pass. Turning as Fluet goes by, the ghoul attempts to bite and claw him, missing with his bite, but digging into Fluet's arm and shoulder with his claws. (OOC: Take 3 hps total and make me a Fortitude save DC 14 or be paralyzed)
Figment skewers his opponent on the punching dagger, dropping it into silent oblivion, while Lian's unarmed strike crushes the head of his with a sickening thud. Seeing that those two have been destroyed, Olana reverses her swing, cleaving the remaining ghoul in the room in twain.
K'nara charges into the kitchen. Pots and pans are everywhere, and on the floor lay the form of what appears to be a dead woman. The blood seems completely drained from her, as her palor is ivory white, and she seems dead, though she seems uninjured. The ghoul, who stands in confusing is cut in half as Lucia blazes through its undead flesh. At this point, the figure of the woman on the floor stirs, opens her eyes, and stands as if nothing untoward had happened. Smiling at K'nara, long pale fangs are evident. Her eyes are red with cat-like pupils, and she stalks closer to the warrior, eyeing the flaming sword warily.
Upstairs, Clarrisa cocks her head to one side as if listening to something, and then turning to face Bertram, smiles, showing long pale fangs. She hisses at the dwarf, pulling her hands wide to strike, "Your pathetic god has fallen cleric... heh he he he... know my wrath."
Flueterflam d20+1=16 d20+3=22 d6+5=11 Friday November 9th, 2001 12:11:18 PM
Fluet flies passed the ghoul, and stops as quickly as he can after missing. He swings around, and notices K'Nara enter the kitchen and demolish the fiend.
Taking advantage of the woman's attention on K'Nara, Fluet stalks as quickly as possible up to her. He swings at the head of the woman with as much force as his body can muster. (OOC: Hit AC 22 with DC 22 [any backstab bonus?] for 11 hps !!!)
Brother Bertram Friday November 9th, 2001 1:24:52 PM
Seeing the 'Lady' revealed as nothing more than yet another minion of Evil, Bertram suprisingly grins ferally. "It is true that my god has fallen, but perhaps you will see that his ideals have not. Bertram raises his axe in a mocking salute and motions the vampire closer. Come becursed creature, taste the wrath of Domi one last time."
Figment d3=1 d3=3 Friday November 9th, 2001 1:34:46 PM
Seeing all the foes vanquished - but one, and knowing there's nothing more really that he can do, the begins putting out the fire on the drapes and things. If any structural fire is already underway, he casts his Ray of Frost on it (1 WHOLE point of DMG) to put it out.
Milo Saturday November 10th, 2001 12:30:13 AM
Casually strolling into the kitchen, expecting to see nothing more than ghoul flambe, "Everything okay in here K'nara?" Seeing the vampire, Milo's face goes white, and the halfling trembles in fear, nearly dropping his weapon.
K'Nara d20=19 d20+8=24 d10+5=11 d6=3 Saturday November 10th, 2001 9:01:40 AM
The human bladesinger was herself wary of the humanoid that was now apparently sizing her up for battle.
"Figment..!" K'Nara yelled. "What's human-looking, REALLY pale, has red cat eyes and fangs that would be the pride 'n' joy of a demon..?" The leader of the Tines thought really, really hard, trying to identify whatever her foe may be (OOC: rolled a 19 on the Intelligence check.)
" 'CUZ WE'VE GOT ONE HERE..!" K'Nara added loudly.
If her Intelligence check is high enough for K'Nara to determine that the woman she's looking at is a threat, she will strike at her: hits AC24 for 11hp damage and 3hp fire damage.
If K'Nara's Intelligence check judges the other female to NOT be a threat, K'Nara will instead ask what the hell happened here.
Ingrge Sunday November 11th, 2001 2:39:57 PM
Hearing and sensing what is going on behind him, Ingrge curses and spins around casting as he turns (web spell - catching the critter and spreading out behind him Hopefully webbing her to the wall - DC 16)
Olana Monday November 12th, 2001 1:23:00 AM
Hearing what K'Nara said, coming from the kitchen - Olana lights a torch. "This is going from bad to worse," she says, eyeing the lit torch as something other than a light source. She moves quickly toward the new danger.
Lian d20+6=23 d8-1=0 Monday November 12th, 2001 6:14:39 AM
Not knowing anything about 'Evil minions', Lian launches off of the ground with one foot, and using a nearby counter or other surface to gain height, coming around with a spinning kick in mid-air attempting gain the attention of this new fow.
Hitting AC 23, for minimum damage, good enough for a distraction.
Figment Monday November 12th, 2001 1:11:45 PM
Hearing the warrior woman's words, the mages blood runs cold. "That would be a vampire K'Nara. Kill it quickly and avoid being hit by it if you can.".
Dawn Brings New Hope. (DM Chris) Tuesday November 13th, 2001 1:36:00 AM
In the kitchen, all see the vampire for who and what it is... a minion of pure evil. K'nara's and Flueterflam's blows practically bounce off of the creature's preternatural skin, and she grabs Lian in mid-air, effortlessly redirecting the elf's aerial attack into the wall, where he collides violently. Upstairs, the web spell seems to fizzle into nothing as it strikes the vampire there, and Bertram's well placed blow stops suddenly, leaving the dwarf reeling as vibrations wrack his arms and shoulders. It may seem that all is lost, and then it happens... nearly all at once. A beam of pure light comes through the windows, up and down, striking the creatures. They writhe in pain as the sun wakens, finally, after remaining dormant through two days of pure despair. The vampire maidens shake and writhe, screaming at an unnaturaly pitch, as the sun beams capture their forms, and ultimately, reduce them to ash. Our road weary heroes stand, amidst the carnage and wreckage of what seemed a hopeless battle, and know victory that they still live to do good...
The Light of Day
Good Day, Sunshine! (DM Chris) Tuesday November 13th, 2001 2:04:20 AM
Holy Lem! The Sun is rising!
Cheers are heard all around town as children race past their hesitant parents and dance in the streets. Parents, skeptical look left and right calling to their children to come back inside where it is safe. It seems, however, that the undead have departed and the creatures of the day have awakened. Songbirds are calling; insects buzzing; dogs barking, and the children are playing. The Glorious sun has returned to The Wold!
The front door to the house bursts inward once more, and standing in the doorway is an aged human, who looks vaguely familiar. Silvery white hair bound behind his head in a pony tail, with blazing blue eyes, and wearing gray robes with blue and silver trim, is Tremaine. He grins at the sight of your motley looking band. Events whir at this point, as the Tine literally sweeps you all out of there, and escorts you to a safehouse where you may rest. You have many questions, but he bids you be silent as he explains many things. Among them are that Domi is indeed dead, through some foul treachery he does not yet understand, and quite literally, all hell has broken loose in Emerald City. Before the Talons know what is going on, Tremaine has deposited them in a room filled with comfortable beds, and left them to attend others who would need his help.
After many hours of uneasy sleep, you are gently awakened by a young woman with huge almond eyes. Laying some Klah down on the table, she smiles, nodding at your group, and quietly opens the shutters. It was not a dream... the sun has risen, and the children... the children are indeed at play once again.
(Sorry about the fast forward there folks, but its necessary to keep things moving at this point. Please pick up the action where you are now waking up. I'll erase this part of my post tomorrow.)
Lian Tuesday November 13th, 2001 3:13:36 AM
After meditation, Lian starts his Kahta style excercises.
"Greetings My Lady."
Lian will stretch and bend until the Talons depart once more.
K'Nara Tuesday November 13th, 2001 7:37:27 AM
K'Nara awakens and is surprised to see the light of day, as she usually rises before the sun does in order to begin her usual regimen of bladesong practice. When the redhead does so, however, her earclip reveals that Greymalk is "a tad busy here...you'll just have to practice the usual stuff--and don't forget to feint and THEN cast..!"
Hmm. She thought for a moment that she heard the all-too-familiar nightmarish chittering of ghouls in the background, but then K'Nara shrugged and began to go through her daily bladesong training.
Once done, K'Nara used whatever was available for bath facilities and then joined the others at the breakfast table.
"Thank you, miss," she said to the woman serving them, "I'm K'Nara...what is there to eat..?" After eating breakfast, K'Nara asked after the whereabouts of Tremaine. She had many questions to ask of him.
Ingrge Tuesday November 13th, 2001 7:46:36 AM
Resting none to deeply, Ingrge has repeated visions of the vapire grinning back at him as his spell disipates around her. Coming back to the now, he comes to shivering, with a curse on his lips that never quite comes to be, as he sees the golden sunlight streaming in. Reaching for one of the nearby cups of Klah, wiithout a word to anyone, he wanders off to a quiet corner, opens his spell book and starts to read.
Flueterflam Tuesday November 13th, 2001 11:19:30 AM
Awaking, although feeling as though he hadn't slept at all, the bard takes his share of Klah. He shudders, wondering what would have happened if the sun had NOT risen.
Figment Tuesday November 13th, 2001 11:49:22 AM
The mage wakens to a new day and quickly rememorizes all his spells. Feeling quite naked last night as he depleted virtually every spell he had, make fixes this situation post haste. This day though is different. Once he completes his normal work, his eyes narrow as he feels that his ability to memorize is not yet spent. He tries to memorize yet another spell - and succeeds! Then another, and another. Feeling confident he takes a deep breath and opens his book to a page he rarely dared turn to in past years. As he begins to read it he gasps as he feels the magic readily flow into him. "I-I've got! I can do it!". The mage begins to laugh for a time, until the reality that his discovery will probably make little difference with the events of the previous day. He finishes and then has some klah.
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 13th, 2001 12:42:02 PM
Bertram rises, and sips klah looking at the window, enjoying the sun and the laughter of children. He smiles and snorts to himself as he sips and is heard to murmur, "Dead? I think not. Not as long as that sound remains."
Olana Tuesday November 13th, 2001 8:01:00 PM
Glad to see the sun shining at last, the elf is certainly in a better frame of mind than she has been for the last few days, and wanders around giving everyone a cheery grin.
The smile stays on her face as she sets about checking her arrows, and sharpening her weapons.
Milo Wednesday November 14th, 2001 11:15:39 AM
Milo is strangely quiet all morning long, spending much time in quiet contemplation and prayer. From time to time he can be seen sitting and staring out the window, basking in the sun.
Time Marches On... And so Must You (DM Chris) Wednesday November 14th, 2001 11:16:13 AM
It isn't long before a town crier comes crying that the "elders" have opened the community building and will hold a feast and town meeting at lunch. He stops in briefly to personally invite you, as well as ask if you might keep an eye on the entire affair, ensuring everyone's safety. "Nothing official mind you, just keep an eye out."
At the meeting it is announced that Parnoth has disappeared from his mountain and that there are no signs of his agents or minions. The guard towers along the trade route are empty. All able bodied men are called to sign up for duty to protect Emerald City.
"We all know that if Parnoth is dead, or if he willed it, the monsters he has in stasis will be released upon the area. There is a 'need to know' whether Parnoth is dead or if he will return."
In absence of the guard of Parnoth, the community leaders are in charge once again, announcing that a weekly feast will be reinstated as was tradition until Parnoth returns... if he returns.
Let the feast begin! There is much toasting as well as concern for the absence of Parnoth. You all have the opportunity to eat well, and drink a little.
During the feast, three of the community leaders invite you all into a back room where they show the symbol of the Tines. All three are members of high rank. "We know that things have been difficult for you as of late, but we would have you complete a mission for us. Go and take a look around Parnoth's Stronghold. No one knows the place as well as the Talons amongst the Tines. See if any evidence of his whereabouts or fate can be found. Unfortunately, we don't have a great deal of time for questions, or discussion. Please complete this task, with all due haste."
Figment Wednesday November 14th, 2001 1:18:26 PM
Feeling refreshed and replentished, the mage waits for the leader of the Talons to give the word to move. He smiles after they are alone again and says slyly "You know, if he is really gone, his treasure may not be...". :).
Flueterflam Wednesday November 14th, 2001 2:23:08 PM
With a hearty laugh, the bard agrees. "Sounds good to me. Almost sounds TOO easy." With that, Fluet looks around wondering if he's the only one who believes that there will be trouble of some sort.
Ingrge Wednesday November 14th, 2001 2:53:50 PM
Oh great, just because we spent some time in his Grand Scaliness's prison, we have the most knowledge of his stronghold. I bet we could find out real quickly if he's alive just by taking off our scarves and letting him know WE are alive and kicking. You know, why don't we just go stand on his treasure pile, slap Mop around a bit and taunt him to show up? I mean we are so obviously ready to take on a dragon. I mean hey today is as good a day to die as any, so why not approach it with a gloomy disposition?
Lian Wednesday November 14th, 2001 5:27:11 PM
Lian sits, meditating. While statements of the dragon fly back and forth. Lian hears Ingrges comment about death, the young elf just raises a brow at the entire situation.
He sighs.
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 14th, 2001 5:32:42 PM
Bertram chuckles hearing the others words. "Actualy I haven't been there. May I be excused Mother?" Bertram winks and laughs all the more making it clear that he is joking.
Olana Wednesday November 14th, 2001 7:18:26 PM
"Mop?" says the elf, temporarily outraged. "Oooh, I'd like to get my hands on him!"
She adds to the Times members - "If Parnoth has in fact gone, then perhaps word could be sent to my exiled tribe that it is safe to return?"
She looks raring to go.
Milo Wednesday November 14th, 2001 9:23:15 PM
Smiling quietly to himself, Milo watches the reactions of his friends to the news. Then turning to Ingrge, "All in good time my friend. Justice shall be served in good time." Looking to K'nara, "I'm ready when you are, oh great leader." Milo tilts his cup, then drains its contents, setting it gently back on the table.
K'Nara Thursday November 15th, 2001 7:21:07 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons was thoughtful after the announcement about Parnoth's disappearance and all through the rest of the party's conversation about it. Finally, she spoke:
"Hmmm...Parnoth gone, eh?" she mused out loud. "Well, well, well--this is mighty interesting..." K'Nara nodded slowly but emphatically. "...yes...we really OUGHT to go and make sure about it. That treasure IS mighty tempting, too." The warrior woman suddenly grinned--and those who knew her best recognized that the smile on her face wasn't 100% sweetness and light.
"Yes, my fellow Emerald Talons--let's go pay Parnoth's stronghold a visit..!"
Mysteriously Absent (DM Chris) Thursday November 15th, 2001 10:30:58 AM
Leaving the feast, you travel quickly to Parnoth's stronghold. Upon arriving, you note that it looks rather inactive. No guards stand outside the cave opening. The entrance itself has been crafted with gold columns that sparkle with jewels possessing all colors of the rainbow. It is a hundred feet across, and eighty feet tall, plenty big for the mighty wyrm to come in and out.
(OOC: The description is mainly for those who haven't been here before. K'nara, set up a marching order for the group as they enter the stronghold.)
Figment Thursday November 15th, 2001 10:41:51 AM
The mage takes one look around and makes and observation "K'Nara, I would suggest we go around to the exit we took when we left here to go to the mine. It seems to me that would be a much less treacherous approach than the front door.".
Lian d20+10=30 d20+10=11 d20+6=24 Thursday November 15th, 2001 5:18:23 PM
The young elf looks very concerned approaching the wyrms lair, but there is also a sparkle in his eye, that of innocence and inexperience... and excitement.
Lian will be anywhere in the marching order K'nara puts him.
OOC: 30 Listen, 11 Move Silently and 24 Spot respectively. Listen for anything that isn't us.
Olana d20+12=32 Thursday November 15th, 2001 6:35:21 PM
On arriving, Olana quickly sets to, and checks the terrain for any possible signs that will confirm that Parnoth has recently vacated the place. ((Tracking check DC 32))
Ingrge Thursday November 15th, 2001 7:00:25 PM
Looking upon the scene, a look of distaste crosses his face and as they discuss which way to go Ingrge reaches up and removes the scarf from around his head. Looking over at K'narra, Ingrge shrugs, as if saying here goes nothing, and says,
"Ok Parnoth, you overbearing, disgusting green, pile of molding, tyranical, carion eating, scales, Ingrge Nightseer is back from his exile, to have a chat with you about how you have been running things. So get your slimy, earthworm self out here."
Milo d20+8=15 Thursday November 15th, 2001 9:04:42 PM
Milo walks up to Ingrge with a sober expression on his face, and looks up at the elf, "Yeah, but tell me how you REALLY feel about 'em." The halfling breaks into a huge grin, and then moves quickly to the entrance, and examines it for possible traps. (Made a Search roll DC 15)
K'Nara d20-1=7 Friday November 16th, 2001 7:05:19 AM
K'Nara arranged the party two by two: Milo and Ingrge; K'Nara and Fluet; Lian and Figment; Olana and Bertram. As they approached the Big Green Meanie's stronghold, she voiced her logic out loud:
"If we DO find his place deserted, it will because of one of two things: he's gone to fight or he's gone to hide--and either of those will be because he thinks his actions are the best chance he's got to save his big green butt." The tall redhead nodded in acknowledgement of Figment's advice. "Being as cautious as you can when it comes to confronting a big green dragon IS best, Figment...let's go around to that exit..."
(OOC: I can't remember if Parnoth just shuttled them out of his place via the front or not, actually. Heh.)
K'Nara armed herself with her bow and arrows, tensed for a fight that she privately hoped wouldn't come.
So Close... and yet so far (DM Chris ) Friday November 16th, 2001 10:38:48 AM
Milo finds no traps as he inspects the entrance to Parnoth's chambers. Entering the structure, the Talon's proceed cautiously through a huge set of double doors, and then a tunnel that curves first right, then left. The air here is still, as if nothing has moved in or out for a while. Continual flame spells contained in large iron sconces designed to hold them, burn along the passage, lighting your way. It isn't long before you pass into his treasure chamber, though it appears differently from before. The treasure itself has been divided, and a path leads directly through it up to Parnoth's throne. The treasure, while it can be seen, is completely closed away in some kind of clear crystal wall to either side of you. The crystal wall runs from floor to ceiling, and doesn't appear to have a way in, or out. The path to the throne however, is clear, though it lie several hundred feet away from where you stand. Parnoth is nowhere to be seen. (Everybody make a Spot and Listen check for me please/BTW: This is the exit you used previously, according to the archives, which are ambiguous at best.)
Figment d20+5=23 d20+5=19 d20+15=25 Friday November 16th, 2001 11:45:00 AM
The mage looks around trying to see and hear what he can (spot 22, listen 19). He also examines the crystl walls closely looking to see what kind of magic put them up. "Do not touch the crystal - or anything else. It is probably trapped." (SpellCraft 25).
Olana d20=13 d20=2 Friday November 16th, 2001 5:08:47 PM
Falling in beside Bertram, Olana whispers - "I can't believe he just did that. I really can't." A perplexed glare was aimed toward Ingrge. ((SPOT 13 LISTEN 2)) It was replaced shortly afterwards by a merry, schoolgirlish giggle at K'Nara's mention of the dragon's rear end.
Lian d20+10=27 d20+6=25 Friday November 16th, 2001 5:21:58 PM
Lian moves cautously along, looking and taking in the chamber. At the same time, keeping any appendages away from the crystal.
Listen of 27 and Spot of 25. And also moving defensively along. AC 23.
Ingrge d20+2=19 d20+3=23 Friday November 16th, 2001 7:57:35 PM
Shrugging his shoulders and tucking the scarf in to a pocket, Ingrgenods at K'narra's marching orders and as the big greenie doesn't seem to be around, Ingrge makes his way inward with Milo at his side. Looking at Parnoth's riches and the throne ahead, he shakes his head. "So K'narra, Is this where you want me to step up and take Parnoth's place on the throne? It seems to be ready for the taking, so to speak." (spot roll 23, listen 19)
Brother Bertram d20+11=19 d20+4=18 Friday November 16th, 2001 8:27:06 PM
Bertram shrugs at Olana's words then smiles mildly. "You know what they say....Absence makes the heart grow braver." Bertram winks to his new elven friend and keeps watch for any problem to present itself.
Milo d20+14=33 d20+8=24 d20+7=10 d20+8=25 Saturday November 17th, 2001 1:42:51 AM
Milo steps into the room, making no sound whatsoever (Move Silently DC 33). As he quickly makes his way up the hall, he looks from right to left, scanning the passage for anything that might remotely resemble a trap. (Search DC 24) "Folks, perhaps you shouldn't touch anything before its thoroughly examined... just a thought [sigh]" (Spot and Listen at DC 10 and 25 respectively)
Flueterflam d20=1 d20=13 Sunday November 18th, 2001 11:10:39 PM
The bard looks around, wondering why things were different. He stays next to K'Nara. (ooc: Spot DC 1 Listen DC 13)
K'Nara d20=12 Monday November 19th, 2001 7:59:13 AM
"Damn straight, Milo!" K'Nara agreed emphatically with the roguish cleric. "Everyone--don't touch ANYthing until Milo is reasonably sure nothing here is trapped..!" The leader of the Talons frowned as she eyed the ensconced piles of treasure.
"I don't doubt the Green One booby-trapped his stash--he wouldn't be able to call himself a member of the family Draconus if he left his treasure unprotected. But that throne area may well be trapped, too. Check it out, Milo...the rest of us should probe the rest of the room--carefully!--for any hidden doors and such..."
K'Nara set about searching the rest of the room as carefully as she could. (OOC: rolled a 12 for her Search check.)
The Throne... (DM Chris) Monday November 19th, 2001 10:30:51 AM
From the start, it is obvious that the walls surrounding Parnoth's treasure are constructed of some kind of crystaline substance. They are, however extremely resilient as well. Figment's initial examination of the wall yields little information as to its construction.
Figment, Lian, and Ingrge notice the glint of gold coming from Parnoth's throne, though it appears to be coming from something that rests there.
Lian and Milo both hear the faint, but unmistakable sound of soft linens brushing against each other, and come to the same conclusion. Someone is hiding in the throne area. Someone who wears clothes.
At this point Milo has not found anything that resembles a trap, mechanical or magical.
Milo d20+14=25 Monday November 19th, 2001 10:33:06 AM
Milo nods at K'nara, and begins moving silently towards the throne, when suddenly his ears perk up, and the halfling halts in mid-stride. In almost a whisper, "Um guys... someone is sitting behind the throne."
Figment d20+15=30 Monday November 19th, 2001 10:50:50 AM
The mage casts Detect Magic and begins to scan everything for magic auras. He looks at the walls, the floor, ceiling, and the throne. He makes no move toward the throne but waitsfor the others to do their thing as he analyzes the scens. He continues to examine the crystal walls and area, trying to force it to yield its secrets (DC 30!).
Ingrge Monday November 19th, 2001 6:24:13 PM
pearing closely at the throne, Ingrge tries to see what is lying on the throne. As he hears Milo's pronouncement, Ingrge mumbles a quiet "Mop" under his breath and gets ready to cast.
Lian d20+10=26 d20+10=19 Monday November 19th, 2001 8:06:50 PM
Lian nods at Figment and K'nara in the direction the sound is coming from, then signals silently to everyone to continue what their doing and that he hears something. Thinking that the rest of the party will be a distraction to whoever or WHATEVER might be there, Lian moves briskly and quietly in the direction of the sound, feet barely touching the floor. Listening for any additional sounds the illusive person or thing might make, such as chanting, movement and even whispering to another. OOC: 26 Move Silently and a 19 Listen.
Lian (additional) Monday November 19th, 2001 8:22:33 PM
As he is moving across the throne room, Lian hears the exclaimation from his halfling friend.
He continues past Milo, darting a look of 'SILENCE' and making a chopping motion as if to say, "... cut the sound!" Then a sense of calm returns to the young elves face, then hoping that none of the party sees it, Lian grins impishly at Milo.
Olana d20+2=5 d20+12=14 Monday November 19th, 2001 9:41:02 PM
Olana's eyes narrow as it is suggested that Mop is in the near vicinity. As she checks for hidden doors, moving silently, she can't help but glance toward the throne, and quietly draws her sword. ((Spot check DC 5, Move silently DC 14))
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 20th, 2001 7:51:08 AM
Bertram eyes the throne for a moment then starts moving slowly, readying his axe, and curiously, out of reflex, reaching for the symbol of Domi. Catching himself he grimaces then raises the axe, preparing for whatever may greet them.
K'Nara d20+5=24 d20+9=27 d6=2 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 8:10:11 AM
K'Nara gritted her teeth at the thought of having Parnoth's #1 bootlicker at the mercy of the Talons. As quickly--but as silently--as she could (OOC: got 24 on Move Silent!), the woman warrior made her way to the throne area in question. Without a sound (and without hesitation) K'Nara drew back on her bow string and let fly her arrow, aiming specifically at a certain body part...
(OOC: her target of choice would be Mop's butt {heh heh heh!}, but if she can't recognize the lackey (or get his buns in her sights ::snort!::), then her arrow will be aimed for right beside the head of whomever is hiding behind the throne.)
That Lovable Mop... (DM Chris) Tuesday November 20th, 2001 10:40:03 AM
Everyone is tense for what is to come, Lian pads foward silently, but even more quiet, and with purpose, K'nara whips around the end of the throne and fires, her arrow breaking as it strikes the back of the throne a finger's breadth from Mop's head. Yes... Mop... Parnoth's lackey cringes away from the warrior woman, shrieking, "Not the face, not the face!"
Examining the throne, Ingrge notes that a rather large scepter rests in the seat. The scepter of Parnoth. Figment notes that the crystaline walls that protect Parnoth's treasure are some kind of magical constuct, possession a faint transmutation aura. Additionally, they pulse with powerful abjuration magics. Most of which are beyond the scope of Figment's experience.
Lian d20+6=22 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 2:46:05 PM
"K'nara, he seems to recognize you."
Lian, not knowing this 'Mop', watches him with uneasy eyes, expecting anything. Because last time someone was playing shy and innocent, she turned into a fangy pale person and tried to attack K'nara and tossed him like a childs doll. All the while, keeping in the defensive. AC 23.
OOC: Spot check to get to know Mop's body language, inspecting him.
Figment Tuesday November 20th, 2001 3:34:29 PM
The mage moves over to the throne and scepter. He examines them carefully and then examines Mop for magic as well as he greets him. "Hello Mop, so where's your boss? And why did he leave all his stuff here?".
Ingrge Tuesday November 20th, 2001 4:45:19 PM
With a growl, close to what might be expected from a baby Parnoth, Ingrge lets it turn into a single phrase. "YYeeessssss, Leave him be! He is Mine." moving slowly and purposfully towrds him, Ingrge speaks. "So little worm, has the scaly one left his whiskbroom behind? How lucky for us and how bad for you. I bet you were expecting anyone but us....."
Olana Tuesday November 20th, 2001 7:09:57 PM
Blade in one hand, elven indignation in the other Olana wags her finger sharply at Mop.
"You... you.. BOUNDER! You'll be lucky if we don't chop your head right off!" she says.
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 20th, 2001 9:42:17 PM
Bertram eyes the others silently, somewhat amused by the reaction this pathetic creature aroused in his friends. Bertram keeps his axe readied, daring this one they call 'Mop' to make a false move towards his friends.
Milo d20+14=31 d20+8=21 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 11:04:12 PM
Milo smiles inwardly at everyone's reaction to Parnoth's lackey, realizing that he isn't needed in the threat department, he moves quickly, and silently up to the throne and begins to inspect it and the scepter for possible traps and hazards. (OOC: Made move silently check DC 31 and search check DC 21)
Flueterflam Tuesday November 20th, 2001 11:57:58 PM
Fluet stays back and watches with amusement how Mop gets treated. He obviously doesn't mind how the others treat Mop, in fact almost appears to be hoping that they might just get a chance to torture the little guy.
K'Nara d20=18 d20+4=23 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 9:27:56 AM
"I did warn you before, lackey, about the sharpness of Talons, did I not?" K'Nara said to the quivering Mop. However, she stowed her short bow away again.
"My people would be just as happy to see you gutted and roasted like a pig," the leader of the Emerald Talons reminded the aide, "You happen to be fortunate, however, that *I* think doing so would give pigs a bad name." She reached down and hauled Mop to his feet (OOC: made a strength check of 18.)
"Now, kindly justify my...'faith'...in you, and DO tell us where your scaly master has gone off to, and why. Emerald City is need of its leader, however odious we all find him, and we'd like to know." K'Nara nodded in Ingrge's direction, her hazel eyes falling pointedly on the elf's flexing fists before returning to Mop's face. "Now...I just don't think my colleagues have a lot of patience for you at the moment..." (OOC: made an Intimidation check of 23...heh heh heh.)
Mop Squeals.... (DM Chris) Wednesday November 21st, 2001 10:18:12 AM
"I don't know where he is!" Mop squeals as K'nara hauls him up vertically. "He sent me out with some dispatches, and when I came back he was gone... him and everybody else for that matter. I was only gone two days..." Mop looks absolutely pathetic as his glances dart wildly around the room, looking everywhere and nowhere at once... Its almost as if he expects help from somewhere, but knows that none will come.
At the throne, Milo doesn't find anything that resembles a trap on either the large throne, or the scepter.
Figment Wednesday November 21st, 2001 11:29:23 AM
OOC: And Figment's assessment of the throne, scepter, and Mop for magic? :)
Olana d20+2=4 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 1:23:38 PM
"Watch him," says the elf warily. "He's full of tricks." She pays him close attention, looking for signs that a double cross is about to take place. ((Spot check DC 4 - yeesh, this girl needs to get back in the trees))
Lian d20+6=26 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 7:20:30 PM
"Who is this person K'nara, and what is he known for?" Lian asks as he approaches this the wretch to examine him closer. "I hate to be nosey, but why does he fear you so. And if he is telling the truth, let him be..." The young elf gazes at the 'pig'. "... for now. Besides, if he tries to run, Ingrge looks eager enough to run him down for us." The young monk looks at Ingrge and smiles.
OOC: Lian will be looking past people over their shoulders when he's talking to K'nara, trying to see that trap he is expecting anytime. Made a Spot of 26, my maximum roll!
Brother Bertram Thursday November 22nd, 2001 11:06:50 PM
Bertram keeps an eye on the rest of the room, looking for any other surprises.
K'Nara d20+4=24 Friday November 23rd, 2001 8:14:51 AM
The tall redhead smiled down at the lackey, and propelled him around to face the querying monk.
"Why, where are my manners..?" K'Nara asked mockingly. "Lian, Brother Bertram...meet Mop, our beloved monarch Parnoth's right hand man! Mop, these two people are Lian, a monk who was nice enough to help the Emerald Talons out a couple times, and Brother Bertram, an honored cleric of Domi. Bertram, here, we met at the mines...you remember the mines, don't you, Mop?" The human bladesinger leaned closer to the lackey and ruthlessly reminded him:
"The mines with the beetle problem? The mines you sent all the Talons to--all of us, except Shadrach? So--if you don't want to make your life extremely short and even more painful, Mop, you'll tell us what your master did with Shadrach...and you'll tell us now..." (OOC: my, my, MY! K'Nara is especially intimidating today--she got 24 on her Intimidation roll.)
Milo Friday November 23rd, 2001 10:44:55 AM
Seeing no traps on the scepter, Milo picks it up off of the throne to examine it closer. All the while, Milo climbs up into the throne to have a seat.
Pitiful... just pitiful (DM Chris) d20+10=19 7d8(2+6+7+6+8+4+1)=34 Friday November 23rd, 2001 10:58:47 AM
Mop looks pitifully at Lian and Bertram, "Hi." Then as K'nara pours on the questions, and intimidation... "I don't know what happened to you friend... I swear... I do know this, however, the guards who were sent with him are very late in coming back... I suspect foul play... um... perhaps on your friend's part." Mop begins to cry as he fully realizes that he may die in the next few moments.
Examining the throne, scepter and such for magic, Figment discovers that the throne, while possessing a residual aura, is not magic in and of itself. Likely it was created using magic. The scepter, on the other hand, is highly magical. Just as Milo grabs the thing, a glyph on one side flares to light, and disappears. Unfortunately, Milo doesn't let go of the scepter quick enough to avoid the electricity which wracks his small frame, knocking him unconscious. (OOC: Milo takes 34 hps of electrical damage)
Olana d20+8=9 Friday November 23rd, 2001 4:03:51 PM
Olana frowns then gives a sigh. "It seems for whatever reason - Parnoth has gone somewhere. By my reckoning he isnt gone for good though. I mean look at all his loot, left behind, and well protected too by the looks of it." On seeing Milo being struck. "Oh my!" yells the elf, rushing toward the throne. If Milo is still holding the sceptre, she will attempt to poke and flick it away with one of her arrows. ((Dex DC 9))
Brother Bertram d20+8=11 d20+6=22 d10+5=14 Friday November 23rd, 2001 6:27:31 PM
Bertram eyes the figure known as Mop just as Milo yells out. Even as Bertram turns towards Milo, realization comes over him as to who Mop really is. With a might roar, Bertram charges Mop and takes a large roundhouse swing with his axe, sinking it in the surprised Mop's torso.
Flueterflam Saturday November 24th, 2001 12:40:15 AM
Having stood back to watch everything that was going on in the cavern, Fluet jolts towards Milo as the lightning engolfs him. Without a second thought, the bard runs as though his life depended on him reaching Milo NOW.
As he is charging in, Fluet notices Bertram swing at Mop. Not sure he understands the full extent of the two things that just happened, he stops and unsheathes his short sword. The young man looks around to see if he can sort things out in his mind. However, he is a bit astounded and gawks, until something else happens that will shed some light on his current confusion.
Lian Saturday November 24th, 2001 2:12:10 AM
"It would seem that fate HAS brought us together for a reason! If Mop did not send you to the mines, I would not have joined you in my masters grove and I would not have met the Talons... my friends."
Seeing Bertrum charge, not seeing Mop do anything like cast or attack (OOC:even making a Spot of 26 in the last post), Lian attempts the deflect Bertrums blow from Mop. Already next to Mop, and expecting K'nara to help Lian if worse comes to worse.
"BERTRUM MY FRIEND, STOP!" Lian shouts, stepping in front of the blow to deflect it, Defensively, AC 23. Lian side-steps the axe and tries to redirect the blow into the floor.
If the defensive action succeeds Lian says; "Bertrum, may I ask why you are attacking him? Did he do something just now?" If it fails, I will gladly take the damage and bleed (or die) gracefully.
K'Nara d20+1=21 3d8(8+7+3)+5=23 Saturday November 24th, 2001 8:37:07 AM
(OOC: the following is subject to whether the DM wants to let it happen:)
K'Nara's hand darted forward so fast it was a blur--however the results were telltale:
She blocked Bertram's axe swing, intercepting the blow by grabbing the dwarf's wrist. (OOC: made an Unarmed Attack against Bertram--got a natural 20. I just wish I was this lucky against real enemies!)
"Hold it a sec," the redhead said evenly, "I don't like Mop at all--he's the head flunkey of the Green One, and I think he relishes his position of power all TOO much...but when it's all said and done, none of us have the right to just kill the man. He's unarmed, and he hasn't been put on trial or anything." K'Nara frowned at the sight of Milo with the scepter.
"I have a potion or two that can help with Milo, here. Meanwhile..." She hauled Mop after her by the front of his ostentatious robes, "...somebody keep an eye on this guy, huh..?" K'Nara rummaged around in her backpack and came up with a bottle, which she administered to Milo.
(OOC: her potion of Cure Serious Wounds; it cures 23hp.)
"I'm not surprised Big Green lit out--and I think you're right, Olana, he anticipates returning. But why he left and when he expects to return are a mystery." K'Nara eyed the scepter.
"Say, Figment--can you make sure that this thing doesn't have any additional traps or glyphs on it..?"
Figment d20+15=30 Saturday November 24th, 2001 10:04:58 AM
(I mentioned that Figment scanned Mop too for magic). The mage shakes his head as Milo gets blasted. As he sees he's still breathing, he adds "Uh, guys, I said don't touch anything. OK?". He scans Mop - in whatever form he may be in now... And then pontificates: "The man is not unarmed K'Nara, he's mage, remember? Watch him closely.". He turns his attention to Mop. "Two things Mop: First, if you care to have any chance at living, remove any magic items and components you may still have on your person, tell me what they are - any traps and such - and hand them to me. I will scan you for magic and I'll know if your holding back. As you can see, many of our number are ready to kill you right now. I'll be among them if you withhold. Secondly, tell us Mop, where did he send you? What directives did he decree before leaving? And thirdly - and this is for everyone - dragons can hear every word uttered in their lair, even if absent (Knowledge DC 30). It is logical to think that he knows we are alive - unless we are still protected in some way from his scrying - or he's busy. I'd suggest we allow Mop to explain things to us somewhere else than here.". With that he takes whatever Mop gives him, scans him for anything else, and then turns his attention to the scepter and the pedestal of the throne. "We need to examine the area for secret or concealed doors. The throne appears to have been crafted with magic, but it is clear of magical traps. Can't say about conventional. The scepter on the other hand, is quite magical. I suggest we leave it where it is. Even if we got it out of here which is unlikely, I imagine he'd easily find it - and us. It also probably allows him to hear us so if we take it, he knows everything.".
Ingrge Sunday November 25th, 2001 3:50:13 PM
Barely able to conceal his obvious bitter hatred for the miserable Mop, Ingrge turns away, to avoid removing Mop from K'narra's hands and disposing of him there on the spot. As he does so, Milo yelps and Bertram bellows, Ingrge drops and rolls coming up staff in hand and aimed right at where mop was before. just as he is getting ready to activate it he sees there is no immediate threat and stands, still at the ready.
All You Need Is Love [DM Jerry} Monday November 26th, 2001 7:28:17 PM
[OOC: Chris has had a software burnout with his provider and said it would be at least a week before he was back up and running. So you, by default get me as your DM. Hope you live through the experience. :)
Chris didn't get to close out the last scene so I'm arbitrarily closing it out. Sorry, but it's time to move on. :) BTW, we have 3 weeks for this scene. I've just decided. See my email.]
The party has found no trace of Parnoth and returned to report this to the elders of Karri. Mop, by default, is left to his devices. He is harmless where he is and should Parnoth return, it's not wise to anger him to the point of specifically hunting you down.
A month has passed. The town as well as the party has worked hard at shoring up the town's defenses now that Parnoth has gone. Groups of elves have tried desperately to locate some of Parnoth's magical Monsters. Parnoth had repeatedly threatened that they would be released to wreck havoc on the Emerald Kingdom should he ever die. However, so far, there has been no sign of them.
Emissaries from The Tines have been sent to Plateau City, The Floating City, and Lankhmar asking for help in the form of troops and adventuring groups. None have come as each city has it's own problems. So every able-bodied man and many women have formed militia groups to man the forts, roam the country-side and prepare for possible invasion from the Red Hills.
Fortunately, The Dark Lord has most of the Orcs, Goblinkind, and Bugbears conscripted for his armies which are for the moment just sitting near his tower to the south. Unfortunately, if he chooses to attack, no army in The Wold could stop him. Plans for evacuation into Deep Culverwood have been made, yet no safe haven in the forest has been found that could handle the large numbers that The Emerald Kingdom represents.
One foggy morning, the Elders call the Talons in to the Community Building for a meeting and breakfast.
Povak, youngest of the elders and newly installed, stands and begins to speak. He says that some "kind folk" from The Floating City have agreed to come and help with the protection of the Emerald Kingdom if they are allowed to teach and convert those who would listen to Caeroldra, the goddess of Love. We have readily accepted as nothing could be wrong with that!
Then Morphak, oldest of the elders then says, “That’s what worries me.”
Povak then offers, “Well now that I think about it, there were two identical letters from the same temple. I thought that a bit strange.”
Suddenly the door bursts open and what could only be called a “crowd” of people enter. They are dirty with travel.
“They invited us! Not your kind!”
“We have a letter of acceptance right here. Couldn’t we sit down and discuss this with love and caring?”
“Your kind of love is vile and immoral. Your kind of love is why we have so many orphanages.”
“Your kind of love makes people hate you.”
“Are you feeling hate in your heart towards me my sister?”
“Um....”
Quickly Povak stands, redfaced and says, “I....ahem,.... I see that both groups of you have made it to our--provincial and honest town. You are..[pause] ...welcome. Two taverns here in town have been made available for you to stay in at a modest rate until you can find housing of your own. Welcome to Kerra, The Emerald City!”
Morphak simply puts his head in his hands and stares at Povak shaking his head.
Povak, ignorning the older man, turns to the party and says, “Would you heroes be willing to escort our two groups to their taverns please?”
Quickly, without waiting for an answer, he says, “Thank you.”
The arguing groups scream out for attention, all demanding your attention at once.
“We will go to our hotel first!” says one group.
“Would you join us for dinner and the evening at our hotel? says the other.
Decisions, decisions. How will our brave Talons handle these strange "love" folk from the City of Civilization: The Big Float? Read on and see!
Brother Bertram Monday November 26th, 2001 8:43:59 PM
Bertram scratches his head for a moment then decides a way to get thier attention. Slamming the flat of his blade down on the table in front of him, he is rewarded with a mighty crash that echoes around the room drowning all arguments. At the ensuing silence, Bertram smiles to each delegation. "I thank you for your courtesy. It will be hard on us to decide which of your fine groups are the most polite. Now that I have your attention, myself and my associates will split up taking you each to your respective hotel. Bertram fingers the blade of his axe mildy. "Now if there are no questions..."
Figment Monday November 26th, 2001 10:29:55 PM
The mage looks the groups over and sees if he can determine who they are - reputation, level, and such. Also, he peruses the letters of invitation and acceptance to see what they say as well. He watches the groups carefully, trying to determine which ones - if any - he ought to be worried about.
Lian Tuesday November 27th, 2001 1:18:59 AM
Lian sits in shock at the stupidity and apparent selfishness of each group, mouth gaping and looking rather dumb himself.
"Bertram. I do not think it would be wise to split the escort. I propose a test; we should ask each group a set of questions, the same questions. Seperate them for this period of time so each group does not plagerize the others answers. When they have answered the questions to our satisfaction, we pick a group that we believe is worthy, then go with them first. Of course the loser gets our escort later. So I suppose there really is no loser. That is the proposal." Lian smiles at Bertram waiting for his response. "Milo, come here for a moment friend. I have a question only your expertise can answer."
OOC: If the Talons decide to split up, Lian will travel with Bertram. Also, with this fast speed up in the timeline, Lian wants to make sure his horse is staying fed and healthy, every so often stopping by the stabble to say "Hello" to Merlot.
K'Nara Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:44:33 AM
The look on the woman warrior's face was rather inscrutable, but her voice was firm:
"No splitting up." K'Nara said in a no-nonsense tone. "We will all accompany these...factions to their respective destinations--we will journey to the closest hotel first, and then to the other establishment afterwards." The tall redhead moved closer to Olana and Ingrge, speaking in a very low voice, so that only they could hear:
"The symbols on THAT group--don't you recognize them?" she asked. K'Nara's voice turned flat as she answered her own question: "They're the Hands of Love."
Ingrge Tuesday November 27th, 2001 10:26:56 AM
Upon noticing just who their new guests were, that they were supposed to escort, Ingrge shakes his head and gets ready to cast silence on both groups when Bertram slams his sword on the table catching everyones attention. After everyone is quiet, he echoes many of the sentiments going around. "We should not split up our group for these folk are true black hearts and do not truely honor life."Because of past dealings, I do not trust them nearly as far as I could throw you Brother Bertram."
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 27th, 2001 1:37:35 PM
Bertram looks to the other Talons for a moment then shakes his head grimacing, "As you will." Bertram flops back down in a chair with an annoyed expression and starts wiping down the blade of his axe.
Olana Tuesday November 27th, 2001 8:25:56 PM
The elf rolls her eyes as the two conflicting groups bite and bicker. She nods grimly as K'Nara points something out. "I remember - that trip up the river to the Tree of Parting wasn't it? What a bunch of idiots."
To the others she says - "Knara's right - we'd better keep our eyes on both of these parties. Make sure they don't tear the place apart."
Come Together Right Now! [DM Jerry] Wednesday November 28th, 2001 4:39:45 AM
As Brother Bertram takes control, both groups look at him in shock and appreciation. A cleric of definitely low level approaches him instantly.
"Your power over people is indeed impressive sir, but do you have LOVE in your heart as you speak? Is it not HATE instead? Lose your hate and embrace LOVE or your soul will be lost. We will agree to travelling together, however, I urge you to protect yourselves from the wiles of the Servants of Desire. They may tempt you to participate in HATEful acts of LUST."
Meanwhile, a young man dressed as a bard approaches Olana. "Milady, I heard you mention your love of river travel. I too simply LOVE travelling by river. It is SOO romantic. I...well I can't help my feelings toward you. You are soo interesting and powerful. I'd love to take you on a canoe ride this night and get to know you better? I promise that I'll protect your virtue and treat you as the lady you are. I am Virtue and I am at your service, milady. We too agree to travel together, however, beware. The Hands of Love will do anything to get you to come over to their point of view...anything. It's not a LOVING nature that you're seeing here. Personally I think that they need the release that only a romantic encounter can give. It relaxes the body and mind so that one can truly LOVE his fellow man....and woman."
His eyes flash looking Olana up and down appreciatively.
So the group heads out. The first hotel is reached. Immediately there is a clamor as to who will stay there.
"I see no LOVE in this place. Simply trashy it is. One could not have a romantic thought here if it was forced upon you."
"I think that's a good idea. Forcing you to appreciate the beauty that is inherent in a building of history and good use in the service of the people. I think you need an indoctrination session to help you remember the love of old things that should be in your heart, sister."
....and it goes on.
Lian d20+10=18 d20+10=27 Wednesday November 28th, 2001 5:32:28 AM
As the groups are departing, Lian hears the OFFER to Olana. He darts a look of desperation between Olana and Milo expecting one of them to say something to each other, but to no avail. Making every effort to remain somewhat private during this whole... ordeal, Lian will, at one point, pull Milo aside and ask, quietly and privately to not embarrass him; "My friend, do you not enjoy Olana's company? That FELLOW has devices upon her, will you stand for it?" Aside from the conversation with Milo, Lian will make every attempt to listen for any conversational information within one or both of the groups that may serve the Talons on this mission, but not obviously.
(OOC: I'll make two Listen checks, one for each group... 18 on one, and 27 on the group with Olana's bard friend, maybe Lian was listening more to them)
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 28th, 2001 6:38:08 AM
Bertram snorts to himself as the 'rookie' attempts to convert him. "I will have to ponder what you say my new friend. I have felt so very hateful lately." Bertram once again makes a point of checking his axe and standing suddenly. He almost chokes laughing as the cleric scurries back.
K'Nara d20+2=15 Wednesday November 28th, 2001 7:59:07 AM
K'Nara remembered the "love" espoused by the Hands of Love...and eyed the other faction--the Servants of Passion, eh? She shook her cauled head silently at the sound of the backbiting...and the way that Virtue was coming on to Olana! She chuckled to herself--obviously the fact that she had two swords handy kept the cleric from attempting such a thing with K'Nara.
"For the sake of staving off any Izen incursions, we're going to have to keep our tongues," the leader of the Talons said, though it was apparent she didn't relish this particular chore, "And suffer their company until we can get rid of them."
Their arrival at the first hotel--or, rather, the attitude displayed by both Hands and Servants--somehow did NOT surprise K'Nara, who strained her brain to think of something.
"And just THINK of all the souls that are here to be converted!" K'Nara said ingenuously. "Why, who wouldn't just LOVE the challenge of making them see your point of view?" (OOC: rolled a 15 for Diplomacy check.)
ANYthing to get these people off the Talons' hands!
Figment Wednesday November 28th, 2001 9:16:49 AM
The mage continues to monitor the groups, looking for any high-level mages in their midst. Were these just low-level grunts from the groups or the big guns. At the look of it, these groups are in real trouble if this is the best they have... As they complain about the state of the place he snorts out "If you think THIS place is dumpy, you should see the other one...". :)
Flueterflam Wednesday November 28th, 2001 4:39:59 PM
"Oh dear...." mutters the bard, loudly enough. He almost finds the conversations too amusing. As the man flirts with Olana, Fluet lets out a quick burst of laughter, which is quickly subdued by the bard.
Fluet stays near Figment and carefully watches them, all the while having a good laugh and a huge grin on his face.
Olana Wednesday November 28th, 2001 8:39:16 PM
Olana turns to the young man who named himself Virtue and gives him an unreadable smile. It is quickly followed by -
"Now you just cool your ardour, young man. A trip up the river indeed. It sounds to me like you were dragged up, rather than being brought up to be respectable. Fancy propositioning a female like that." She wags her finger at him. "Where I come from, meetings have to take place before anything like that can be done. Tsk - you ought to be ashamed of yourself."
Can you take me back? [DM Jerry] Thursday November 29th, 2001 1:08:00 PM
Figment does not notice that anyone is showing any power other than with their personality. Perhaps that is part of their religion? Perhaps they are hiding things purposely? Perhaps those who are priests are inexperienced.
The young traveller continues his compliments of Olana. "Where I come from Miss Olana, we learn to ignore such backward practices that get in the way of enjoying love, even if just for the moment. Your eyes...amazing. Please don't break my heart. I could love you....I know I could. Give love a chance Olana. Don't hide behind your fears."
The young man "teaching" Brother Bertram does not back down. In fact, he stands tall at 6'6" and pokes his finger onto Bertram's forehead. "You have hate in your heart sir and you show this hate by dominating those who threaten you instead of showing them love and discipline. I could teach you. Your god, whoever he is, (pointedly not looking at Bertrum's holy symbol) surely would appreciate a change for the good in your temperment. I suggest that you meet me for supper and let me teach you the ways of Love in a diplomatic situation. MY name is Lleter and I am a third generation Servant of Caeroldra. I have been taught how to teach these concepts to others all my life. Let me help you remove the hate in your heart."
Both The Servants of Passion and the Hands of love listen to K'nara's words and then begin arguing heatedly in their own ways and styles about who gets to stay at this "humble" hotel where the message of "love" can be taught.
Figment Thursday November 29th, 2001 1:33:28 PM
The mage shakes his head at the two ridiculous groups. He moves over and speaks quiently to K'Nara. "These two groups do not appear to have any significant power. These are grunts - no more. I'd say the local guards can deal with them good enough. Just to be sure though...". He stands back and asks loudly for both groups to hear. "You guys came to help us PROTECT THIS PLACE?!? Why, how do you intend to do that. None of you appear to have any kind of ability other than arguing. What do you intend to provide us in the way of support? Your answers may best determine which group we like best and which group we give deferrence to. How are you planning on explaining love to a vile ghoul as he rends your flesh from you bones? Better have more than words...".
Lian d20+6=12 d20+10=14 Thursday November 29th, 2001 5:33:29 PM
Lian travels along patiently as the two groups force themselves on the Talon's members and each other.
"Soon, very soon Lian, this will all be over. Patience." He mutters under his breath, lagging behind intentionally.
OOC: I want to make a Spot and Listen to make sure the rooftops are safe and we aren't being followed. Call it paranoia. 12 and 14 respectively, Lian can't even hear himself think over this chatter-walling.
Ingrge Thursday November 29th, 2001 7:49:32 PM
Having hung back for long enough, listening to this Virtue's balderdash, Ingrge walks up beside the young man and whispers in his ear. "Unless you want to fall in love and become intimate with one or more of my daggers, I would stop propositioning my Wife!"That said, Ingrge wraps one of his arms around Olanna's shoulders and bends close to her ear and whispers. "I'm sorry, but play along." Ingrge then leans around and plants a kiss square on Olanna's mouth.
Olana Thursday November 29th, 2001 8:22:42 PM
It takes Olana just half a second to pull her wits together after Ingrge's kiss. Giving him a warm smile and letting out a sigh, she says - "I'm sorry my dear, I was trying to be polite to this man, but he doesn't seem to want to take no for an answer."
She then bats her eyelashes at Virtue. "See, I have enough love right here. I certainly don't need any more, thank you very much. Now be off with you."
Brother Bertram Thursday November 29th, 2001 9:00:33 PM
Bertram eyes the person in front of him for a moment. "If you touch me again insolent puppy, I will show you all about the meaning of the word hate."
K'Nara d20+1=20 Friday November 30th, 2001 7:33:56 AM
The red-headed warrior woman was never revered for her personal patience with fools. She shrugged off first her sword scabbards and then the backpack she wore. Then she rummaged around inside her backpack.
"Talons, line up over here, please..." she ordered her party as she brought out a full waterskin out of her backpack, indicating a spot that was to one side and away from the arguing clerics. After all her people were away from the clerics, K'Nara stood up, and began--strangely enough--to whirl the 'skin around overhead by the braided handle, as though it were a sling rather than a large, heavy bladder full of water.
K'Nara swung the waterskin in an arc towards the arguing clerics, yelling "DUCK!!!" as she did so...
(OOC: K'Nara's intention is to have a rather impromptu "lottery"--the first cleric unlucky enough to NOT duck fast enough will be the determining factor as to which of the two Caeroldran groups stays at this hotel. If a Servant gets the waterskin broken upon him or her, then the SoPs get to stay there; if one of the Hands gets wet, then the HoLs get to stay. I rolled 20 to hit.)
Love Hurts! [DM Jerry] Friday November 30th, 2001 1:14:28 PM
The groups fall silent at Figment's words for a second. The hands of love all look to their leader, a young man with average looks and demeanor, and with his nod, they march inside. As if a switch had been turned off, they subside and stop arguing.
The young man talking to Olana smiles warmly at Ingrge and says, "Well, we could all three...."
He is interrupted by a female elf who whispers something in his ear. "Well perhaps not. No offence intended sir."
About this time, the female elf is hit square in the face with a skin of water. "AACKKK!"
She spins on K'nara. "Who!" she spits as she pulls components out of her robe preparing to cast. Her eyes settle on K'nara, then on her swords, and then on her face. She is beyond fury. She raises he arms to cast and suddenly Figment gets that awful feeling that perhaps there is more to some of these people that meets the eye. The young man Leiter, however, grabs her hands and leads her off to the other hotel. The woman turns and screams!
"You have insulted a Vistani! I curse you! May you rot in hell!"
It takes several of the Servants of Passion to hold her back and drag her along as a slew of curses come out of her mouth.
Figment d20+15=29 d20+15=25 d20+15=33 Friday November 30th, 2001 2:18:49 PM
The mage quickly tries to assess the level of ability this woman has from two perspectives in referrence to himself. (Int+Spellcraft - 29, Int+Knowledge Arcana 25). He also peruses his mind regarding the Vistani (Int+Knowledge Arcana - 33). He also evaluates her curse - for potential effectiveness.
After they leave he says "I think my analysis of them was a bit premature. Perhaps a great deal premature... They are up to something. And this Vistani - if she's telling the truth, we may have a REAL problem. They are from Ravenloft, and they are here. And she just cursed you. Their curses have teeth. Bertram, anyone, did you detect any evil in them? If they are from there, it is bad news since that is where the Dark Lord spends his time. Perhaps they are on looking us over for weakness before he sends his army? I've a bad feeling about this."
Brother Bertram Friday November 30th, 2001 8:51:06 PM
Bertram snorts at Figment's words. "I didn't make the attempt Friend Figment, but then quite frankly it matters not to me either way. After the way that one bast...er fellow treated me I say if they give us any reason at all we just kill 'em." Bertram rises to his feet and walks outside watching to make sure that the enraged cleric actually left.
Ingrge Friday November 30th, 2001 9:41:45 PM
Suddenly very quiet, Ingrge walks along beside Olanna with his arm still around her; a strange look in his eye and almost oblivious to all else around him. As K'narra barks her order he reacts, but it is obvious his mind is elsewhere.
Olana Friday November 30th, 2001 9:55:56 PM
Olana follows K'Nara's instructions and accompanies Ingrge. Once she is sure that the cursing elf stranger is no threat - "Thank you," she whispers, giving Ingrge a hug. "Did you hear what he was suggesting? I thought only orcs did that sort of -"
She's stopped short by what Figment says. "Ravenloft?" Her sunny, wistful smile dies immediately.
Lian Friday November 30th, 2001 10:06:54 PM
"I have had a bad feeling sense they were introduced to us, does that count for anything Figment."
Confused and even more concerned, Lian askes Figment; "Where is Ravenloft? I have not heard of it."
K'Nara d20=13 Saturday December 1st, 2001 7:27:01 AM
For somebody who'd just been cursed, K'Nara seemed unconcerned.
"Oh, dear," she said contritely, "I'm sorry--but I did say 'Duck'! However, seeing as how you're wet and all--perhaps it would be best for you, ah, Servants of Passion to stay in THIS hotel...you know, so you can dry off. My group and I will escort these other clerics to the other hotel." The human bladesinger arched an eyebrow as the woman continued to make an unseemly display of herself, then herded the others in the opposite direction.
"Hmmmph--the woman just doesn't know when she's lucky..." muttered K'Nara, "...the proper way to conduct 'the lottery' is with a big heavy stone at the end of rope instead of a waterskin." After hearing from Figment, however, the tall redhead thought very hard for a moment. (OOC: made a voluntary Knowledge: the Planes check of 13.)
"Yeah...what IS Ravenloft, Figment? Sounds vaguely familiar..."
Carry That Weight [DM Jerry] Saturday December 1st, 2001 3:13:16 PM
Figment cannot discern anything about the spell the female elf was trying to cast except that it seemed very complicated, fast, and divine in nature rather than arcane. It had movements that were similar to Vampiric Touch, just much more furious. As far as looking at the elf in comparison with Figment, her movements were beyond anything he has ever attempted.
The servants of passion, already rushing off in the distance towards the other hotel, pretty much ignore K'nara, if they heard her. However, a boy, hardly older than 7 or 8, a native who has been watching the turns of events, approaches with a keen eye watching K'nara. He has sandy hair tied into a pony tail in the back. His eyes look as old as his body looks young.
"Ma'am, are you the famous K'nara? Cause if you are, I think you're in trouble ma'am. I can see the curse surrounding you ma'am. It's powerful. And interesting looking. Sorry for you, I am. However, you're a hero. Your friends will save you. Good day."
He backs respectfully away, his face turning red, and blends into the crowd-- suddenly apprehensive as he sees a couple of the Hands Of Love watching from the doorway of the near hotel. They sneer and quickly turn and enter the Inn closing the door with a slam.
Both groups are housed. Mission accomplished...it seems.
Milo Sunday December 2nd, 2001 7:39:56 PM
Silently following along the entire time, occasionally speaking silently with Lian, Milo looks relieved as the last of the two groups disappears into their Inn. He releases a long, low whistle from between his teeth, "Sometimes, it just doesn't help to bicker with some folks... No matter how right you are, you can never win the argument." The halfling has a twinkle in his eye, and familiar hop in his step as he smiles ever-so-sweetly at whoever may be paying attention.
K'Nara Monday December 3rd, 2001 7:45:17 AM
The leader of the Talons shrugged.
"I'm not worried about any old curse," K'Nara said dismissively, "Not for myself--she cursed me directly, so I'll bear the burden of it. Now...let's get going...I wanna do some shopping--and there's that message I want to send to Perpaguil about those orphans I promised to check up on..."
Flueterflam Monday December 3rd, 2001 9:26:33 AM
Fluet yawns ands waits for the group to continue to wherever. He appears curious about the recent course of events, but keeps his mouth shut.
Figment Monday December 3rd, 2001 11:21:29 AM
The mage hisses at the warrior woman. "Do NOT dismiss this K'Nara! You are in trouble. BIG trouble. The first order of business MUST be to get the curse lifted.". He continues in a stressed whsiper. He is clearly shaken.
"Shopping will do you no good if you are dead. I am not sure that there is anyone here who can lift it. I doubt Lorna, priestess of Alemi will be able to. But perhaps we can find out what it is and what it's going to do to you.".
He looks into the eyes of the blazing red head. "That woman was not a mage. She was a priestess of some sort, and she was casting a spell far beyond anything I could do - and it was death magic. She meant to kill you with it (and probably would have). And with that thought in her mind, restrained only by her companions, she cursed you. As I said, the Vistani hail from Ravenloft. They are perhaps gypsies, or witches. They are evil - and wield great power. One is plenty of trouble, but there is a whole group with her - and they are rarely alone. You fought the Hands of Love before. Based on what I've learned from you guys who were there, you fought their lackeys, and Joe of the Hand and one other Gold Dragon took on the Hands of Love. As you told it they barely survived. Now they are back. If these are not the same people then it's possible that these are imposters. And they are probably beyond us in ability. The other group appeared to not panic when the woman began to cast. They are probably imposters too - or at least high level."
"As for Ravenloft: I've read a lot about the place. As I imagine it, being there is like the day Domi died - but it's like that all the time. Dark, evil, cold. Those that survive there MUST be powerful. The Vistani THRIVE there.".
"We need to go to the Temple of Alemi and find out all we can about the HOL and SOP, the Vistani, and why they might be here. I'm afraid shopping must wait - if you care to live."
The mage is clearly and visibly afraid. The last time he was like this was when that 'Angel of Death' rode by on the horse. And prior to that, the time the group fought the preserved bodies in the mansion in Plateau City. This has really messed him up bad.
(OOC: Figment wasn't there for the HOL adventure, but I would imagine in 3 years that he's been in the game he would know the story by now...)
Olana Monday December 3rd, 2001 6:27:58 PM
"Figment is right, you know," says the elf to K'Nara, astounded about the curse. "I mean for all you know - you could suddenly turn blue and your head might drop off. We'd better get it sorted."
She whispers to Ingrge - "I've heard mean things about Ravenloft. Have you?"
Ingrge Monday December 3rd, 2001 8:35:06 PM
Lost in his own world, Ingrge doesn't even seen to register Olanna's response which probably is the cause of her cutting off her thought about Orcs.
As the conversation goes on around him about the curse and Raven loft, something, maybe Figment's fear finally reaches him. He gives himself a shake and to Olanna responds.
"Raven Loft is not a pleasant place. And it is certainly not a place for humans. It is as Figment says and truly even the Gold Dragons might find themselves tested against a group of Vistani. If they are here now, that means that there are open gates that were better off closed.
"K'narra, We need to find out about this curse of yours. Even Greymaulkin would not take a Vistani curse lightly. Let's go visit Lorna and see what she has to say."
Brother Bertram Monday December 3rd, 2001 9:12:02 PM
Bertram listens to the others discuss this Ravenloft as if it wasnt something from dwarven tall tales. He ponders if it really exists, then shrugs to himself. True or not, these 'clercis' best leave him alone.
Lian Tuesday December 4th, 2001 2:46:46 AM
"Yes my little friend, that is why I suggest physical or mental challenges so often, this way people are to busy to complain or bicker. Techinally no one can 'win' the challenges because everyone has a different physical abilities and accomplish different goals. Right?" Walking along with Milo, occassionally stooping to get a better listen of what he has to say. "I believe K'nara is being a bit to cavalier about this CURSE, who knows, maybe it will make her hair fall out or something." He smirks as he says this with a raised voice, just enough for K'nara to hear.
K'Nara Tuesday December 4th, 2001 6:57:52 AM
The human bladesinger rolled her hazel eyes, but--seeing how upset this whole thing was making the others--she quickly capitulated.
"Well...I think the whole thing is silly," K'Nara insisted, "But then, again, I know nothing of this Ravenloft, nor of these Vistanti peoples, so I guess it would be prudent to have the local clerics of Alemi check it out." The woman's cauled head swung from one side to the other. "The closest one is...ummmm...this way, I think..."
With this, K'Nara led the way to the local temple of Alemi.
Ill Tidings (DM Chris) Tuesday December 4th, 2001 10:38:34 AM
The Talons move quickly along to the temple of Alemi. As they arrive, all are ushered in, and Milo especially is summoned into a back room for a private conference. Sans the halfling, it isn't long before Lorna indeed shows up to have a look at K'nara and her alleged 'curse.' "Dear dear... we have enough problems these days without the Vistani... let me have a look at you Miss Illutu. It appears as though you've gotten yourself into a bind." With that, Lorna casts a series of divination spells, all the while, examining the Talon's leader with a critical eye. After what seems like about an hour of staring intermixed with prayer, Lorna gets a perplexed look on her face. Then standing upright altogether, she summons the power of Alemi. Her hair seems to blow in a wind that comes from all directions at once, and the cleric shrieks, collapsing to the floor, unconscious. Clerics seem to come from everywhere and nowhere at once, rushing to the aid of one of their own.
Figment Tuesday December 4th, 2001 11:14:56 AM
The troubled mage looks on with concern as they travel. "K'Nara, please do not brush off this warning. Ravenloft is by far worse than anything we have ever encountered. We would quickly die there.". As they hurry to the temple he looks relieved to be there - but yet uneasy. As Lorna fails in her attempt, he lowers his head. "My dear, you are indeed cursed if such a thing is able to overwhelm a minion of Alemi in direct supplication for you.".
Flueterflam Tuesday December 4th, 2001 6:22:52 PM
Fluet stands reverently as the cleric Lorna prays. Noticing all the hands that run to help her, Fluet stays back as he sees the situation is undercontrol. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the bard cannot help but joke, "So, K'Nara...you still sure that you'll be fine with this?" He winks. "But seriously...what are we gonna do about this?"
Olana Tuesday December 4th, 2001 7:30:26 PM
Olana looks on grimly. "If we kill the person who laid the curse, will that make everything alright?"
Ingrge Tuesday December 4th, 2001 8:18:36 PM
Standing to the side watching the proceedings with a semi-professional eye, Ingrge looks shocked and a bit unnerved by Lorna's collapse. As Olanna asks her question, he turns to her in all seriousness and says, "Well in some cases yes, but often with the Vistani, a curse is set on the person who kills one, so......" he trails off.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 4th, 2001 10:52:29 PM
Bertram shrugs at Ingrge's words. "Couldn't hurt to kill one though. Or at least offer to kill them if they dont fix this curse. Im sure we can be persuasive." Bertram hoists his axe and looks ready to move.
Lian Wednesday December 5th, 2001 2:06:53 AM
Lian just stands there as the woman collapses, not really understanding the whole whole Vistani Curse and the conversation surrounding it. "Persuasive..." Lian says to himself as he fingers his chin hearing Bertram's statement. Then realizing who said it, does a double take at Bertram, placing his hand on Bertram's shoulder, says; "I am not sure you cutting them down would be a great idea my friend."
Milo Wednesday December 5th, 2001 4:03:26 AM
Rushing out from a back room with the other acolytes, Milo is adorned with a short robe and bears the markings of fresh oil upon his forehead, eyes, and lips. Rubbing his face, "Oh dear." He looks up at his friends. "Kill who? Perhaps we should explore all the options before we go idly tossing someone's life into the oblivion of death."
K'Nara Wednesday December 5th, 2001 7:49:49 AM
Now K'Nara was, indeed, very concerned--not for herself, but for the priestess who had collapsed while trying to help her out.
"Oh, no...this IS getting serious!" the redhead said, frowning unhappily. "It's not that I'm not taking this seriously, mind you, but it's just that--well, a fighter's philosophy is usually: when you go, you GO, and EVERYone 'goes' someday. But I never wanted to trouble anyone with stuff like this." K'Nara looked anxiously from Lorna to her colleagues.
"Is she all right? Is there anything I can do..?"
Powers from beyond... (DM Chris) Wednesday December 5th, 2001 10:18:13 AM
Lorna comes to rather quickly, though she looks somewhat dazed. Standing up, she looks very serious, "I'm afraid there is nothing that I can do about this curse. Its magic comes from a place that Alemi cannot touch, and so I am powerless to affect it." After speaking briefly with the other clerics, Lorna comes back, "I do know this much about the curse, it matters very little whether you kill the one who gave it to you. It is beyond even their power now."
Suddenly you realize that Lorna is speaking loudly in order to be heard over a ruckus that is occuring outside. Loud arguing, involving many voices can be heard coming in from outside of the temple.
Figment Wednesday December 5th, 2001 10:54:38 AM
"It is true that we all have our time, K'Nara. I for one am just hoping yours is a long way off. No need to rush it, you know.". He frowns as Lorna explains things and grows even more concerned when he hears the ruckus outside. For now though he focuses on Lorna. "So is there anything we can do to fix this? How can we lift the curse, or get it lifted?".
Flueterflam Wednesday December 5th, 2001 11:08:17 AM
Fluet takes note to what is being said. However, he strolls in the direction of the commotion. The bard is curious what is going one now.
Lian d20+10=27 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 6:31:03 PM
Lian, not wanting to leave the leader of the Talons at this point, knowing now her life is truely in jeopardy. He listens to the voices outside for a moment to see if he can understand what is being said. What is the shouting about? Listen Check of 27.
Olana Wednesday December 5th, 2001 8:07:26 PM
"Now what??" exclaims the elf as she hears the ruckus. "As if we didn't have enough to contend with."
She walks out to investigate.
K'Nara Thursday December 6th, 2001 7:26:31 AM
"Go on, check out the noise," K'Nara told the others, "I'll be right with you--I'll just see if I can't get the details about this curse from Lorna. Let me know if it's something serious out there, though..."
The female fighter turned back to the priestess of Alemi, intending to glean the details that Lorna may possess before letting herself be distracted by something that may be nothing more than sound and fury signifying nothing.
Milo Thursday December 6th, 2001 10:50:39 AM
Hearing the noise, Milo steps outside of the temple to go and see what is going on.
All we need is Love... (DM Chris) Thursday December 6th, 2001 11:10:41 AM
Inside the temple. Lorna looks shaken as her eyes flutter open, and the look she gives K'nara is one of pure sympathy. "My dear girl, a horror has come over you, and while it will have no immediate affect upon your person, I'm afraid that it could come back to haunt you in time. As for removing it, I don't think it can be done. It must be broken, but the terms for that are vague at best right now. The best advice that I can give you, is keep your wits about you at all times. Be alert for anything different about yourself, even subtly so, and for the love of Alemi, keep your friends close on this, so they may help you when the need arises."
As Flueterflam, Olana, and Milo step outside to see what is going on, the momentary increase in sound as they open the door, causes Lian to go bleary as he strains to understand what is being said. It is, however, to no avail, as there are just too many voices, saying too many different things.
As the three move outside they see the two groups, the Hands of Love and the Servants of Desire, squared off on each other in an empty lot that lies kitty-corner to the temple of Alemi. They appear to be arguing over something, but there are so many voices going at once that it is difficult to tell what. At this point, the women are doing all the shouting, while the men give each other steely glares, hands resting firmly on the pommels of weapons. Normally, you may be inclined to just let them have it out and be done with it, however too many spectators have gathered at this point, so that if the two groups start to sling spells and swords, innocents could get hurt.
Figment Thursday December 6th, 2001 11:45:25 AM
The mage sighs heavily. "Well at least we have some time - it seems. I guess we'd simply better get on with life for now - as you said you wanted to earlier K'Nara. We're always close so maybe this time we'll do a better job of spotting a problem than we did with Olana and that set of evil armor.".
He follows the others outside to deal with the commotion. He focuses on the women who seem to be the leaders and concentrates to hear what they are saying.
Ingrge d20-1=17 Thursday December 6th, 2001 6:07:21 PM
followoing the others outside to find the sourse of the ruckus, Ingrge is not terribly suprised to find the two factions at the heart of it. Walking out in to the middle of the area between the two groups, he stares first at one group and then at the second. After a moment of thinking he lets loose a blood curdling scream and falls to the ground in convulsions. After a few moments of convulsing, he puts himself in to a deep elven trance. (when he comes to he will place blame on both parties for casting a spell on him and calling for their confinement or arrest pending a hearing.bluff roll DC17)
Lian Thursday December 6th, 2001 7:16:05 PM
Aggrevated about not hearing what is going on outside, Lian moves to the door. Seeing Ingrge fall in convulsions, and seeing the Vistani standing there, he makes a deduction about what must have happened. Shouting back into the temple; "K'nara! The Vistani did something to Ingrge, he is very sick! Help him, he just stopped moving. He is dying!" "I knew they were no good!"
Olana Thursday December 6th, 2001 7:36:58 PM
"Gods of ivy and vine," exclaims the elf as Ingrge falls to the ground. She's out there quickly, pausing to give the crowd a look that suggests whoever did this is in for a lot of trouble. "Ingrge, what happened?" she whispers.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 6th, 2001 8:52:38 PM
Bertram follows the others out and observes the fighting and Ingrge fall to the ground. Growling he reaches for his axe and starts across the street to the empty lot.
K'Nara d20+4=18 Friday December 7th, 2001 6:53:37 AM
K'Nara sighed, nodding agreement to Figment's comment.
"But," she added, "I have to wonder why Caeroldra--the goddess of love and definitely as Good a deity as one could imagine--should happen to have a Vistani--"
At this point, the Talons conferring with Lorna were interrupted by the shouts of their colleagues from the now-open door of Alemi's temple.
K'Nara rushed to the door and, seeing Ingrge on the ground, immediately drew her sword and ran to the elf's side.
"What in the bloody blue hell is going on???" she yelled angrily. "Who's responsible for this???"
A six-foot-tall human bladesinger with a naked bastard sword and a VERY angry expression was doubtless an intimidating sight. (OOC: rolled an Intimidation check of 18.)
Milo d20=19 Friday December 7th, 2001 10:21:45 AM
Standing outside, Milo assumes his formerly neutral expression with regards to the two religious groups. Ignoring what they are saying, he walks straight across to the lot, and steps directly between the two groups, holding his hands up for the speakers to be silent and listen. The ruby pendant that serves as his holy symbol of Alemi is displayed prominently upon his chest. When Ingrge's scream comes, his head jerks in that direction in panic, and then seeing his friend, his eyebrow arches silently in a mix of skepticism and amusement. (OOC: Made a Sense Motive check DC 19)
Territorial Dispute... (DM Chris) d20-1=18 d20+2=18 Friday December 7th, 2001 10:35:05 AM
As the rest of the Talons emerge from the temple of Alemi, it is clear that the situation is beginning to escalate as several of the men in the respective religious groups draw weapons, and stand at the ready.
Figment stands concentrating, and while he doesn't pick up every word, comes to a basic understanding that this is a dispute regarding the empty lot itself. Apparently both groups have laid claim to the land as the future site for a temple that they will build.
Ingrge's antics immediately draw the attention of both groups, who begin to look at the elf with some skepticism as they realize that they have been too caught up in their argument to have cast a spell at the elf.
Bertram and Milo find themselves standing between the two groups, and while, as a cleric of Alemi, Milo is certainly recognized as a potential moderator between the two groups, their attention is focused more keenly upon the cleric of the fallen Domi, or to be more precise, his axe. Secondarily, they turn and notice that K'nara stands with a naked blade as well. Many of the men in each group reconsider their decisions to pull out their cudgels and light maces, and replace them. However, many do not. Looking at the pair of clerics standing between the groups, both matriarchs speak at once. "WE CLAIM THIS PLOT AS THE FUTURE SITE OF OUR TEMPLE." The two glare angrily at each other.
Figment Friday December 7th, 2001 11:59:48 AM
The mage chuckles at the groups. "So tell me, what government official said to you that this plot was zoned for such a use? And, as you know, the Green Dragon is not here - but is clearly coming back. Perhaps you can take it up with him upon his return? Also, there lies a huge army of the Dark Lord not too far from here. If they come, then I suppose you can have whatever plot you wish as everyone - and everything will be destroyed - including you! Until then, I'd suggest you delay your arguement about the future - until it becomes more clear. Unless, you know something that you might share with us to refute my words and make the future a bit clearer...". He looks around and asks "Well?".
Lian Friday December 7th, 2001 4:32:20 PM
"K'nara, I think it was a SPELL. I saw no light show that usually accompanies one though." Lian walks over to the bladesinger, and kneels next to Ingrge, "But I saw no lights when you were cursed either!"
Brother Bertram Friday December 7th, 2001 7:10:37 PM
Bertram observed the people that still had weapons out, marking thier locations in his mind. He listened to Milo and Figment try to reason with people that were in his opinion, not worthy to be reasoned with. Squaring his stance, He looked to each of the matriarchs and declared so all could hear. "My friends are quite polite and schooled in the way that they should speak to people of your rank. I too am schooled in certain things but it has nothing to do with being polite to loud, obnoxious, useless people. Now here is what IS going to happen. You people are going to leave this lot immediately. YOU WILL do this, willingly or unwillingly, it matters little to me either way. I tell you this but understand, if you do not leave, and I cant stop you, then my friends can. If they cannot then the city militia will, and if they fail the citizenry will. YOu cannot defeat everyone no matter how powerful you think you are. And this is to be made clear as well. This city is not your personal shopping area to divy up as you see fit. If you find land you like then you can go bid on it. IF the owner wishes to sell it. If you want to fight like children you may do it with your purses. And as of right now I will not tolerate any of this anymore, EVER. As I said, I have been schooled in other areas than my polite friends here and if it comes to blows know right now that I am willing to die for what I believe. Are You?"
Olana Saturday December 8th, 2001 1:02:48 PM
Olana will attempt to drag Ingrge away from the centre of the argument, thankful that Milo, Figment and Bertram are taking on the crowd. Like K'Nara - she's ready to start laying into the squabbling factions with sharp steel. "Lian?" she asks. "Will you help me with Ingrge, here?"
Flueterflam Sunday December 9th, 2001 11:33:08 AM
Although not having been asked, Fluet rushes over to help move Ingrge out of harms way. As he is helping her, the bard asks her quietly, "What do we do? There has to be some way to fix this situation....there always is. Sometimes it's just not the best way. But I think that it is in our best interest this time to FIND the best way."
Ingrge d20-1=19 Sunday December 9th, 2001 6:36:08 PM
Allowing himself to be carried off, He takes a few more minutes to rest and then wearily makes his way to his feet. When asked, he is very vague about what happened (bluff skill-natural 20)saying only that he got caught between two washes of power. Looking a bit peeked he stays in the background with his friends.
K'Nara Monday December 10th, 2001 6:19:12 AM
Scowling heavily, the human bladesinger sheathed her sword and glowered at the leaders of the two factions.
"Oh, spare me!" K'Nara snapped. "This whole thing is over who gets this vacant lot? I should hope that one or the other of you have the paperwork that I just KNOW the government demands you possess before claiming any damn thing, because you people are causing a ruckus that is sure to panic your neighbors around here! I mean--LOOK at you! You all look ready to start slinging spells and busting heads...and you dare to call yourselves followers of the goddess of love!"
Milo d20+1=21 Monday December 10th, 2001 10:16:22 AM
"OH YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!" Milo shouts at the two crowds. Then, walking straight up to the Vistani priestess who previously cursed K'nara, Milo sticks his finger straight up into her face. "Listen here!" His head whipping around, he looks at the cleric heading up the opposite group, "You as well! By the authority granted me as a bloody Patriarch of Alemi I hereby command you two to produce papers or, in the name of Alemi, the supreme, I'll march fifty more patriarchs out of that church..." Milo points his finger over at the temple of Alemi, "and have them visit Alemi's wrath, which he has reserved especially for fools, upon your heads." Then looking at the Vistani woman, "He gets straight up in her face, as he refuses to be ignored, regardless of his size, "And if you're feeling insulted now... go ahead and start slinging curses... because I'll be happy to visit Alemi's undying wrath of justice upon your entire people." (OOC: Milo rolls an Intimidate check DC 21.)
Disputed Regence... (DM Chris) Monday December 10th, 2001 10:44:07 AM
As Figment asks his question, it seems to spawn a whole new round of finger pointing, name calling, and general disquiet. Several clerics are reaching for scroll cases, and the warriors tighten their grips on their weapons. Then hearing Bertram's proclamation, the warriors seem a little less sure of themselves. In fact, while none of them sheath their weapons, the majority of them, lower the weapons, as if they are seriously considering it.
One female cleric from each group, though not engaged in shouting, but merely apart of the throng, detaches themselves, and move quietly over to where Ingrge is. Both look to Olana and Lian, humbly offering to heal any wounds, or alleviate any pain that the elf is feeling. The two eye each other suspiciously, but leave the shouting to their superiors.
As K'nara makes her statement, she notices that a representative of the city council seems to be standing off to one side, nervously shifting from one foot to the other as he watches the two groups argue with some apprehension. In his hands seem to be a rolled piece of parchment. Then... Everyone can hear Milo's voice above the rest of them. At first, the groups seem to be ignoring the diminutive Patriarch, however when he gets in the face of the Vistani priestess, she can't help but pay attention. At this point, Lorna passes through your group, heading towards the two factions, and while she says nothing, she moves to stand directly behind Milo, her acolyte, who seems completely oblivious to her presence. As Milo, makes his final pronouncement upon the head of the two factions, it seems as if they may begin again, but a curt nod of support from Lorna, and the groups fall silent. Both high clerics look a little pale.
Figment Monday December 10th, 2001 11:16:03 AM
The mage shakes his head as the two groups continue their confrontation and walks over to the councilman. "So good sir, what is it you have there, and what would you have us do about this?".
Brother Bertram Monday December 10th, 2001 5:13:41 PM
Bertram notes some of the weapons lowering and some of the looks on the faces of the opposing clerics and grins wolfishly. Bertram's axe moves not an inch but is readied for any move on the part of the opposition.
Olana Monday December 10th, 2001 7:02:12 PM
"Oooh, thank you Fluet," says Olana as Fluet helps her cart Ingrge out of harms way, "and yes - you're right. If we get this wrong there'll be a major fight on our hands."
She asks Ingrge if he's alright, then - unsure what the heck to do, she watches the crowd - and then breaks into a grin. "Way to go, Milo," she utters softly, and then turns her smile toward Fluet. "You're going to be writing stories about him before long, I suspect."
Ingrge (Jan) Monday December 10th, 2001 7:07:00 PM
"I'm fine... now," mutters Ingrge to Olana, and to the two clerics - "I just need to get my breath back. I'll be fine." He coughs and glowers for a little while longer, but keeps his eyes on the crowd, just in case things get nasty.
Flueterflam Monday December 10th, 2001 11:22:33 PM
To the two female clerics, "Please just leave us alone for now. Just your presence here is stressful enough. Or have you not figured that out through your constant arguing with each other?"
K'Nara Tuesday December 11th, 2001 6:37:20 AM
The six-foot-tall woman strode over beside Figment and sternly regarding the nervous official.
"Yes, please tell us what the legal standing is for these...clerics of Caeroldra." K'Nara asked a bit brusquely. "We're trying to make sure that the spectators around here aren't caught in a crossfire."
Lian d20-1=8 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 9:33:06 AM
"Niether of you are going to touch our companion with your ... your cursed hands!" Lian says, eyes unblinking and face unreadable.
Lian stands from his croaching position over his friend into an immediate Defensive stance (23 AC, in defense of Ingrge) and readies to attack the first stupid cleric who tries to even touch or 'heal' Ingrge.
(OOC: Diplomacy Check of 8 (He doesn't want to, but he's very serious, he will attack)
Milo d20+7=19 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 10:00:59 AM
Staring down the two clerics, Milo seems to be daring them to speak further, when he realizes that they are both looking at something above and behind him. (OOC: Made spot check DC 19)
Turning around, Milo spots Lorna, and nearly jumps out of his skin as her presence startles him. Then realizing that she was probably standing there all along, the halfling begins to turn a nifty shade of red, as if he got caught with his hand in the cookie jar.
Proclamation... (DM Chris) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 10:10:11 AM
After Flueterflam's statement, the two younger clerics of Caerolda seem ready to argue, but seeing Lian, they both back up a step, turn and look at each other, sniff in the air, and return to their respective groups.
Lorna lays a reassuring hand on Milo's shoulder and speaks to him in gentle tones, "Well spoken young Patriarch, you may just make a fine Seeker yet."
Seeing that now was as good a time as any, the city official steps forward, unraveling his scroll as he moves between the two factions of clerics, eyeing them warily all the time. "We here at in the Emerald City, proclaim that this site be dedicated to Caerolda, and that this congregation..." he looks the entire throng over, left to right, "will be allowed to construct a temple as they see fit." At this point a murmur breaks out amongst the clerics of Caerolda, and they seem to be working themselves up for another round.
Figment Tuesday December 11th, 2001 11:52:14 AM
The mage shakes his head at all the rabble rousing. He calmly speaks "So tell me, followers of Caerolda, would your goddess look kindly on either of you harming those who you would try to convert to her ways? Look at the gathering crowd. If you fight and hurt them, you might as well not build a temple at all as they will not listen to a message of love from such a group. Please, decide your agruements in private - and peacefully.".
Olana Tuesday December 11th, 2001 7:38:54 PM
" - or VOTE on it!" adds Olana to add to Figment's suggestion. She's still a bit riled about the commotion.
Ingrge (Jan) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 7:45:57 PM
Ingrge nods a brusque thanks to Lian and Fluet as they chase the clerics away, and watches with a chuckle as the clerics retreat.
He wanders over and has a quiet word with K'Nara. "I wonder if there's room for two temples here, to be built side by side. Might stop all the squabbling."
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 11th, 2001 10:22:39 PM
Bertram keeps his axe raised, even after the clerics are out of sight before lowering it. He wipes his head with a sweaty hand, cursing under his breath. While he is relieved this episode has ended, he is sure this is far from over.
K'Nara Wednesday December 12th, 2001 6:30:53 AM
K'Nara--who was wondering if she oughtn't just pull out Lucia once more and just start lopping off heads--paused at Ingrge's question.
"Hmmmm..." she mused as she mulled it over, "...I think you just may have something there, Ingrge!" Stepping over to the two head clerics, the redhead holds up a hand.
"Hey, now--remember you people are the middle of a city!" K'Nara warns them. "Now...the official over there has said that this is a site for Caeroldra...but neither of your--uhhhh--departments?..." K'Nara shrugged, not knowing a better word for the factions, "...has been given authority over the other...Ingrge here wonders if you can't build two temples in this one spot--you know, this could be the start of a new deific fashion trend...double temples..?"
Lian Wednesday December 12th, 2001 9:05:24 AM
Deflating his chest and letting out a sigh that sounds unmistakingly like a squeek, shaking his head he presses his index finger and thumb into his eyes, then he rubs them trying to alleviate the headache caused by the two very irrating cleric groups. Turning to Ingrge when he suggests the two temples on the same spot, Lian states, not really realizing his volume or his place, and not really caring either; "No Ingrge, that would be to simple my friend, they can not solve anything without yelling like fools. This city has enough problems without allowing two idiotic fighting factions to live so close to each other! By all the Gods, the Talons might even be blamed for the chaos!!" Lian looks apologetically at Ingrge, then at K'nara. "I am sorry for the out burst." Then Lian drops his eyes to the ground, overting them from meeting anyone elses.
Milo Wednesday December 12th, 2001 10:57:15 AM
Milo blushes at Lorna's words and then mutters, "I'll do whatever it is that Alemi calls me to do." Then looking around at the clerics of Caerolda and their entourage, he speaks more firmly, "You better put those weapons away before I ask my good friend Bertram here to take them from you." Milo lays a hand gently on Brother Bertram's shoulder.
Resolution? (DM Chris) Wednesday December 12th, 2001 11:15:57 AM
At the proclamation fron the city official, the two groups start to relax. Warriors sheath their weapons, and clerics replace their scrolls in their cases. Eyeing each other suspiciously, the two factions turn towards the city official, who now stands next to Lorna. The head cleric from each side steps forward, and nearly speak in unison, "How shall we live and love in peace on this plot together? Have you any suggestions?" Their gaze sweeps from the city official and Lorna to the Emerald Talons, and back again. The Hands of Love representative looks at her counterpart, "There is no way that our groups can live peacefully on a single plot of land, or even within these city walls. We insist that these indecent interlopers be asked to leave at once." The Servant of Desire representative looks over at the speaking cleric, "Not to put too fine a point on it, but who would want a temple of Caerolda with a high priest who wouldn't know love if it fell out of the sky, hit her in the face and started to wiggle?" The HOL representative draws a nail across the air, chanting a quick prayer. The SOD representative freezes up, unable to move as her rival punches her dead in the face. Weapons come out of their sheaths.
Figment Wednesday December 12th, 2001 12:08:58 PM
The mage moves away and begins to back up the bystanders. Looking over his shoulder he says "They're going to fight. Now or later - but it's going to happen. Let's back everyone off and let them kill each other. Then our problem is solved for us. I know I'm not willing to stand between them and take unnecessary damage.". He continues to move the others back as far as he can. He'll even threaten with arcane gestures and things if some won't listen. "Back off folks. If you get to close when they fight they might kill someone.".
Olana Wednesday December 12th, 2001 6:06:44 PM
Growling as only an elf can, Olana asks - "Does anyone have a spell that could make those two "like" one another? This is a disgrace. Not in even the children in our tribe would act like that."
Ingrge (Jan) Wednesday December 12th, 2001 6:12:31 PM
Ingrge raises his voice toward the battling clerics. "Not to put too fine a point on it - but I thought you two worshipped Caeroldra? The Goddess of Love? Isn't it from her that you draw your powers? "Now it seems to me that there isn't a 'whole lotta love' going on here. Aren't you afraid that your Goddess will become angry at your lack of faith, and that your powers could well disappear?" "Just a thought, ladies..." He backs off with a smile.
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 12th, 2001 8:09:00 PM
"I am sorry Friend Figment, but you and this rabble has forgotten one thing. I said this foolishness was OVER." Bertram raises the axe saluting his opponents, not yet sure how many there are. "Now which of you is first ready to meet your Deity, for I have had Enough!" Bertram starts towards the attacking cleric with no hesitation in his step.
Lian d20+6=11 Thursday December 13th, 2001 5:49:37 AM
Lians eyes raise from the ground, an eyebrow raised ever so slightly, expecting this fight alot sooner. "Bertram, you read my mind friend. WE TRIED to be DIPLOMATIC! But NOO! You all had to make Bertram angry!! You will not like him when he is angry."
Backing up Bertram, just behind him, Lian says low enough just for Bertram to hear; "Go for the one who is not playing fair Bertram, the one chanting, I have your back, friend."
Moving up along side Bertram, as to fight side by side. (Defensive, AC 20, Dodge against the caster AC is 21. Eyeing any opponents that might have a bow of any kind. Spot check of 11. None of Lian's attacks are against the SOD, even if provoked.)
K'Nara d20=17 Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:32:55 AM
K'Nara's brow furrowed. (OOC: rolled a voluntary Intelligence check of 17.) Something wasn't quite right--and she couldn't put her finger on it. The clerics of Caeroldra had been rather flighty in the past, but ever since the Talons' encounter with the startlingly single-minded Hands of Love faction within the sect, the human bladesinger had always thought that the deity was not giving her full attention to her followers.
The situation before them was an underscore to that opinion now.
"No, Bertram! Stop, Lian!" the tall redhead ordered, eyeing the oxymoronic scene of the clerics of the goddess of love at war with each other. "Our first priority is to safeguard the civilians--get OUT of the battlezone and help get the bystanders out of spell range." K'Nara turned and started doing just that.
Domi, I'd ask you to give me strength, the woman warrior thought to herself with a pang, ...but I realize that I'm on my own now.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 13th, 2001 7:44:31 AM
Bertram grinned as Lian took his back. Hearing K'Nara, he muttered back. You do that K'Nara. I think that would be a great idea." He continues his advance.
Milo Thursday December 13th, 2001 10:25:06 AM
Milo's head jerks in the direction of the acting cleric, and then setting his feet, he stands between the two opposing groups, his ruby pendant, symbol of Alemi held high. The halfling shouts, "Anyone else who moves to attack will be struck down where they stand."
Evicted... (DM Chris) Thursday December 13th, 2001 10:35:14 AM
Oddly enough, as the attack on their high priestess resolves, the Servants of Desire do not move to retaliate. In fact two of them move forward and collect their leader, curing her and treating her with the utmost tenderness. The high priestess of the Hand of Love seems outraged, "Fools, you don't know what love is?" Then an unexpected voice enters the conversation... Stepping away from the city councilman, Lorna speaks up, "Good dwarf stay your axe. There will be no blood this day." The cleric of Alemi steps between Bertram and the Hand of Love priestess, and speaks in a loud clear voice. "By Alemi's decree, I expel the Hands of Love from the Emerald City. You are to collect up your personal possessions now, and then myself and the clergy of Alemi will escort you out of the city. You are not welcome back within its walls... ever." As if to punctuate her statement, clerics of Alemi come filing out of their temple. Many are adorned in armor, all carry weapons, and the wrath of Alemi's justice is in their eyes.
Flueterflam d20+2=6 Thursday December 13th, 2001 1:55:52 PM
The bard taps his foot rather unsuredly. "Um...yeah, how shall things proceed then?" He looks around to see what the group appears ready for. In addition, Flueterflam carefully watches how the Hands of Love accept their sudden eviction. (ooc: voluntary int check DC 6)
Figment Thursday December 13th, 2001 3:15:41 PM
The mage turns from his bystander shooing and watches the potential spellcasters - ESPECIALLY the Ravenloft gypsy. If so much as a syllable comes out of her mouth that looks like it might be a curse he fills it with a magic missle.
Olana Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:07:52 PM
The elf helps K'Nara with crowd control, keeping a sharp eye on the Hands of Love group. She's more than happy with Lorna's decision, viewing that particular branch of Caeroldra as being quite insane.
Ingrge (Jan) Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:10:46 PM
Ingrge moves to back up Figment, Bertram and Lian, ready for action if need be, and with a stern look on his face.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:13:28 PM
Bertram stops immediately but does not lower his axe. "And what about K'Nara's curse? Is that to go unhealed and unpunished?"
Lian d20+6=19 Friday December 14th, 2001 4:53:04 AM
Lian stops. He looks around the scene.
OOC:Spot check to see anything out of the ordinary. Spot of 19)
K'Nara Friday December 14th, 2001 7:24:40 AM
The twist of the female fighter's lips was rather fatalistic, but she did nod to the drow woman who'd cursed her in the first place.
"I believe that this curse you've placed upon me is for me to deal with, m'lady," K'Nara said firmly, "Though my teammates would like to know if you have any way of abating it--I, myself, would rather that you assure me that I am the only one cursed, and that my mates are safe, if you cannot reverse the curse."
Milo Friday December 14th, 2001 10:05:13 AM
Milo quickly walks over to take his place among the other clerics of Alemi. Standing with them, he turns to face the Hands of Love, and with one deft movement, his short sword practically leaps from its scabbard, spinning with a flourish before it comes to rest in the halfling Patriarch's grip. Though he is the smallest in stature among them, he looks deadly serious.
Banished... (DM Chris) Friday December 14th, 2001 10:12:07 AM
The Hand of Love high priestess looks at Lorna, turns to look at the clerics of Alemi, and then finally rests her gaze upon the Emerald Talons. She smiles at K'nara, "Believe what you like young fool, it matters not in the end. I have no more power to remove your curse than your precious cleric of Alemi." Then turning to the Hand of Love, she barks an order, "The Hand of Love is leaving this accursed place, withdraw to gather your possessions and meet me in this square in ten minutes."
Figment Friday December 14th, 2001 10:37:54 AM
The mage watches them carefully as they prepare to leave. He also keeps an eye on the SoPs as well.
Brother Bertram Friday December 14th, 2001 6:51:11 PM
Bertram stands watching them prepare to leave, still refusing to lower his weapon until they are safely away.
Lian d20+6=14 d20+3=9 Saturday December 15th, 2001 7:40:53 AM
Lian walks with almost a glide up to Bertram and whispers into his ear, in a very low tone with hands cupped around it; "Bertram, I have heard that afflictions can be remedied by removing the source of the affliction, be it a vine choking the roots of a tree so as to sufficate it or even something as simple as a thorn in a foot. So..." Lian pauses. "Perhaps she can be... removed, like the thorn she is."
OOC:Spot to see who might be listening and a Hide check to cover my lips so no one can read them. 14 and 9 respectively.
Olana Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:53:45 PM
The elf lets out a sigh as the Hands of Love decide to depart without a fuss. With difficulty, she tries to assume an air of impartiality. If things were settled, there was no sense in pouring oil on to low burning embers.
Ingrge (Jan) Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:55:50 PM
"Good riddance," mutters Ingrge. He whispers to K'Nara. "I don't trust them. They might be rallying for another fight."
Brother Bertram Saturday December 15th, 2001 6:39:30 PM
Bertram sighs and mutters back to Lian. "I agree, but I will not go against the will of the group, at least at this point. They have treated me with kindness and trust and I don't wish to betray that trust. However I refuse from this point on to be bullied about by rabble like this anymore." Bertram turns and grins to Lian, "So in the meantime we must drink my friend!"
K'Nara Monday December 17th, 2001 6:42:29 AM
The tall human woman frowned, but she'd had the feeling that her inquiry was likely not to result in a satisfactory answer, anyhow, so she did the only thing she could do at the moment: K'Nara simply dismissed the curse from her mind...for now. She could brood over it later.
"All right, all right--break it up, people..!" K'Nara announced to the last remnants of the ogling crowd. "Nothing to see here--move it along..!"
Milo Monday December 17th, 2001 10:12:24 AM
Milo breaks away from the clerics of Alemi briefly to speak with K'nara, "I'm going to go with them to escort the rabble out of the city. I'll be back in a little while. Where are we going from here?"
Not so sad good byes... (DM Chris) Monday December 17th, 2001 10:26:53 AM
Ten minutes pass, and the Hand of Love has reassembled back into the square. Without a word, the clerics of Alemi, advance on the group intending to escort, forcably if necessary, to the city gates. It does not however take any prodding, and the entire procession begins to move.
The Servants of Desire, after tending to their high cleric do not give the Hand of Love a second glance as they leave the square. It is as if they are forcing themselves to be good sports about the entire affair. They do however, seem preoccupied with their own business, having already forgotten what has gone before. They talk with animated gestures as they inspect the plot of land that the city has given them to build on.
It is late afternoon in Emerald City, and the possibilities are endless.
(At this point folks we are entering a three week slow down here in the Wold, giving us all a chance to catch our breath from the first weeks in the Year of Asenscion. A great deal of the action in the next three weeks will be driven by you. There may be some surprises as well however, so stay on guard.)
Olana Monday December 17th, 2001 7:11:10 PM
Overhearing Bertram, the elf says. "After all that - I wouldn't mind a drink, too."
Ingrge (Jan) Monday December 17th, 2001 7:12:27 PM
"A drink sounds good, and I can catch up with my spellcraft. We could all do a lot worse than go down the pub."
Figment Monday December 17th, 2001 11:38:39 PM
Once the HoL have left the city, the mage corners Lorna. "Lorna, have you heard anything about the followers of Domi? Our Bertram struggles to keep his composure. What are they to do now? Surely Alemi or some of the other gods have spoken on this...".
K'Nara Tuesday December 18th, 2001 6:05:52 AM
After finally getting the situation handled, K'Nara sighed and turned to the other Talons.
"Hell, yeah--a drink and a decent meal sounds like what we could use!" the human bladesinger said enthusiastically. "We can talk over how to help out Bertram here while we eat."
Milo Tuesday December 18th, 2001 10:40:32 AM
Milo strides off to join the clerics of Alemi as they escort the Hand of Love out of the city, "I'll meet you guys at the pub after I'm done here." The halfling shouts over his shoulder as he steps in line with the rest of the priests of Alemi.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 18th, 2001 10:41:09 AM
Bertram shakes off his oppressive mood and looks to K'Nara with a twinkle in his eye. "And what makes you think I need help Lass? Clerics without gods are in great demand in some nations I hear." Bertram can't keep a straight face and chuckles despite the situation. "This will all work itself out one way or the other. I just need to move on with my life. Problem is I am still devoted to all that Domi stan, er stood for."
Lian Tuesday December 18th, 2001 10:42:32 AM
"Yes, some refreshment may be in order after the day's events. Refreshment and perhaps a few days of meditation to regain my equilibrium." Lian follows along with the Talons as they head toward the pub.
Warm welcomes... (DM Chris) Tuesday December 18th, 2001 10:51:30 AM
As Figment turns to speak with Lorna, he finds her to be in absentia. Most likely heading up the procession as the Hand of Love makes their way to the city gates.
Now that things have settled down, the Servants of Desire return to their Inn. Most likely to make plans for their new temple.
The Talons, sans Milo, have no trouble getting to the pub, which seems to be astir with all sorts of talk. As the group steps into the doorway however, the room goes quiet. The good folk all seem to be looking at you. Then, a strange thing happens. They begin to applaud. It starts slowly, and spreads across the room until all the patrons are coming up to you, pulling you in, slapping you on the back, and generally welcoming you in after your recent tribulations. A relatively large table toward the middle of the room easily seats the group, and the barmaid makes her way over to you for orders. "Can I help ye fine gentles this evening with a mug of ale, or a bowl of spiced stew?"
Figment Tuesday December 18th, 2001 11:25:12 AM
The mage smiles at the reception. And graciously accepts a seat and some stew.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 18th, 2001 2:43:44 PM
Bertram scratches at his thick beard for a moment then smiles and heads for a table. Things might work out after all. He looks to the barmaid with a twinkle in his eye. "A resounding 'Yes' to both my dear!"
Olana Tuesday December 18th, 2001 6:40:10 PM
Olana waves to Milo as he wanders off with the cleric types, and then beckons to Fluet. "Come on," she says, "don't get left behind."
The welcome reception the Talons receive at the tavern makes her blush, and she sits down rather quickly. "Soup sounds wonderful," she says.
Ingrge (Jan) Tuesday December 18th, 2001 6:44:23 PM
Ingrge accepts the applause with a stiff bow, while fighting a grin which keeps wanting to emerge no matter how much he tries to stop it. "The same for me," he says as Bertram gives his order, "and perhaps another ale."
K'Nara Wednesday December 19th, 2001 6:30:02 AM
K'Nara chucked a light fist at Bertram's shoulder.
"How remiss of me not to remember!" she joked, then sobered slightly. "It's hard to believe he's dead, true...but I'm sure that his ideals still live on--in ourselves, if nowhere else."
The welcome at the pub surprised K'Nara, but she made sure to respond to all the handshakes and well-wishing by playing up Ingrge's clever and capable performances during the last few months. Publicity like this was invaluable to her plan to supplant Parnoth.
"Ale and stew for each of our party, miss!" K'Nara ordered with a smile. "Oh, and should a roguish halfling cleric of Alemi come in, send him to our table and fetch him the same, too..!" The tall redhead sat down, practically sprawling into her seat with her arms draped across the backs of the chairs to either side of her.
"Grab a seat an' let's eat..!" she invited the rest of the Talons with a grin.
Milo d20+18=27 d20+14=20 Wednesday December 19th, 2001 10:44:18 AM
After see the riff-raff out of the city gates, Milo bids his fellow clerics a good evening, and quickly makes his way back to the tavern, where he is hoping that everyone is waiting for him. As he enters the tavern though, he does so under stealth, not wanting to attract attention to his person. (Made Hide and Move silently checks DC 27 and 20 respectively)
A silent lull... (DM Chris) Wednesday December 19th, 2001 10:55:38 AM
The tavern patrons settle down as they return back to their conversations. As the sun goes down however, there is a noticable lull in the general tavern noise as folks glance apprehensively at the coming darkness. It is obvious that the memory of two days of darkness and horror lingers on still with the good folk of Emerald City. Still, the stew is delicious, as is the soft warm bread that it is served with, and the ale warms the body from the inside. Sitting there in the common room, it is hard to mistake the apprehension, as conversations turn to the subject of Parnoth, his disappearance, and whether his legion of monsters will be set free upon the city any minute.
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 19th, 2001 10:04:14 PM
Bertram notices the looks of apprehension around him as darkness settles. He rises to his feet. "My friends, this is not a night to fear. This is a night to praise the gods that, at least for a while, you are not under the heel of that tyrannical beast. I say tonight is a night of celebration. For tonight we are free! Free to choose our own destiny! I say we drink to Freedom!
K'Nara Thursday December 20th, 2001 6:33:51 AM
"Hear, hear..!" K'Nara said enthusiastically, lifting her own tankard in support of Brother Bertram's toast. "To freedom!"
Figment Thursday December 20th, 2001 11:29:23 AM
The mage relaxes with his friends and enjoys the time off - wondering how long it will last.
Olana Thursday December 20th, 2001 10:29:01 PM
Trying to keep her voice to a whisper, the elf says - "You know - if he comes back, then we're back to hiding again."
Ingrge (Jan) Thursday December 20th, 2001 10:32:59 PM
Ingrge raises his glass. "Freedom. We'd better make the most of this. I wouldn't mind trying to find out exactly what happened to old green scales though. Better to be prepared."
K'Nara Friday December 21st, 2001 8:00:56 AM
K'Nara set upon her meal with dispatch.
"Yeah, you're probably right, Olana." the leader of the Talons had to agree. "But...I'm hoping to make the most of Parnoth's absence--I can't shake the feeling that there is something rather big keeping him away, and that he won't be able to get back for quite a while. However, well...we all saw how he left his trove--it's definite that he fully intends to return."
Milo Friday December 21st, 2001 11:09:05 AM
Appears standing next to Olana as if from nowhere, "Perhaps we can have a look about the countryside. I can't imagine we'll find anything, but it won't hurt to wander a bit." The halfling stands there shining an apple on his shirt, with a smile on his face and a glint in his eye.
Lian Friday December 21st, 2001 11:10:24 AM
Lian is strangely silent in the tavern. It appears he is listening to everyone, and no-one all at the same time.
Music anyone? (DM Chris) Friday December 21st, 2001 11:16:12 AM
As the evening passes on further, one of the patrons produces a fiddle, and another a small flute, and the two make their way up to the hearth, and begin to play a lively tune for the room. The talking continues, though more quietly, and some of the patrons sit listening, tapping their toes in time to the music. Folks who looked as though they were ready to turn in for the evening sit right back down and order another pint. The tavern keeper looks extremely pleased at this, and stands there with a towel draped over one arm, clapping in time to the music.
Olana Friday December 21st, 2001 6:16:53 PM
"Oh!" exclaims Olana, suddenly seeing Milo, and then she bursts out laughing. "Milo, I think the least you can do after scaring me half to death is ask me to dance."
Ingrge (Jan) Friday December 21st, 2001 6:18:16 PM
Ignoring the music for a moment, Ingrge says quietly to K'Nara. "Milo has a point. What do you think? Should we find out more?"
Flueterflam Friday December 21st, 2001 9:53:41 PM
Having quietly kept to himself for most of the night, Fluet pipes up when some other patrons produce some tunes. He walks over to one and develops a 'May I join in?' face. Assuming a nod is given, the bard joins in with his own lute and even sings quietly when he feels appropriate.
As he plays with the group, it appears that he has something else on his mind. However, it may just be that he is tired.
Milo Saturday December 22nd, 2001 12:12:40 AM
Milo's smile nearly splits his face, "Why my dear, I thought you'd never ask." Setting his apple on the table, Milo gives Olana a courtly bow and then holds out his arm, ready to lead her to the floor.
Lian Saturday December 22nd, 2001 12:32:48 AM
After seeing Milo head to the dance-floor with Olana, he looks around for someone that he may be able to dance with. Lian stands up and leans over to Bertram and says; "I think K'nara is right, we SHOULD make the most of Parnoths absence..." Placing a hand on Bertrams shoulder and nods in the direction of a young elven lass; "...and personally, I am looking forward to it!" He smiles widely, ear to ear and walks up to her. "Excuse my forwardness M'lady, would you care to dance? I am Lian Siannodel, it is indeed a pleasure." Lian bends in half with a bow.
K'Nara Saturday December 22nd, 2001 7:13:52 AM
The human bladesinger's hazel eyes twinkled as she eyed her colleagues enjoying themselves for the first time in a long time. Then she turned back to Ingrge.
"Aye, Ingrge." she agreed. "And there are the elf children I promised to go back and check up on--the ones we pointed in the direction of Perpaguil. The Obsidian--curse their hides!--orphaned 'em, so it's only right that we make sure that they are okay. I promised them we'd return, and I keep my promises." K'Nara downed the last of the ale in her tankard.
"We can do Milo's reconnoitering on the way there and after we finish checking up on them."
Figment Saturday December 22nd, 2001 10:58:13 AM
"Too bad we can't find a way to get at Parnoth's treasure. I wouldn't mind combing through it for some nice items. That reminds me. We need to keep an eye on Mop. I would bet he hasn't gone far... And where did the Obsidian go? Did they disappear with Parnoth or leave by other means? Can we follow? And what of the army to the North? Have they moved? Do they have spies watching the city? Are the HOL tied to them in some way? Should we do some reconnisance ourselves? So many questions...".
When the opportunity presents itself, the mage nudges Lian and whispers so that only he can hear "Do not be too downtrodden by K'Nara's lack of interest in dancing. She won't dance with me either...".
Brother Bertram Monday December 24th, 2001 7:48:19 PM
Bertram listens to the music enjoying himself, and surprised to find it so. He finds himself smiling and chatting away with the locals and feeling at peace for the first time since the death of Domi.
Dance and Make Merry... (DM Chris) Wednesday December 26th, 2001 11:37:45 AM
With the inclusion of Flueterflam as a musician, the music takes on a shape and beauty unknown to the common minstrels, and they are pushed to perform better than they ever have, inspired by the Talon's bard. The music picks up the pace and the floor is cleared as couples file out to dance and make merry the evening. The good folk's spirits are lifted even higher, and a good time is had by all.
Figment Wednesday December 26th, 2001 12:51:28 PM
The mage moves over to Bertram. "I'm glad to see you in high spirits again, my friend. I am concerned for you!".
Brother Bertram Thursday December 27th, 2001 12:09:51 AM
Bertram grins back. "I was concerned for awhile as well Friend Figment, but I think everything will be just fine." Bertram leans back and takes another goblet from a passing waitress and taps time to the music.
Flueterflam Thursday December 27th, 2001 1:19:38 AM
The bard is pleasantly surprised at the other musicians' will and want. He continues to keep up with them, including a merry little whistle to all his strumming.
K'Nara d20+5=19 Thursday December 27th, 2001 5:44:48 AM
Once she finished eating her fill, K'Nara stuck her tongue out at Figment.
"Imagine a bladesinger not wanting to dance..?" she teased the mage. "I have never danced with you, Figmentary, because I do not recall you ever asking me..." With this, the tall redhead leaped to her feet, siezing one of the mage's hands.
"Now, I'll show you dancing..!"
With this promise (or was it a threat..?) K'Nara immediately requested that the musicians play a high-spirited jig and launched with energetic grace into the steps.
"Keep up with me, Figment..." she called with a grin, "...IF you can..!"
(K'Nara made a Dancing check {using Perform} of 19 total.)
Figment d20+3=16 Thursday December 27th, 2001 1:10:21 PM
Startled for a moment, the mage stumbles a bit. But he recovers as the music begins to play. The mage matches the dance steps of the warrior woman easily enough (Dex DC 16), but certainly lacks her panache for it. He smiles and looks into her eyes with joy - almost hoping she had chosen a slow song.
Olana Thursday December 27th, 2001 11:33:15 PM
Laughing merrily, Olana dances with Milo, feeling more light hearted than she had been for ages.
Ingrge (Jan) Thursday December 27th, 2001 11:36:21 PM
Ingrge watches the dancing with a smile, while knocking back some ale. It was good to watch his friends kick back a little. These times were few and far between.
Milo d20+10=21 Friday December 28th, 2001 3:36:09 AM
Milo spins and whirls on the floor, dancing merrily as only a halfling can. Smiling at Olana, he boldly winks at the elven lady, blushing simultaneously.
Midnight Oil... (DM Chris) Friday December 28th, 2001 3:40:01 AM
As the Talons kick up their heels, the music spins them faster and faster. The evening wears on however, and it seems like only a moment of sheer bliss before the minstrels are packing up and the good folk are heading off to warm beds and a good night's sleep, leaving the Talons on their own.
K'Nara Friday December 28th, 2001 6:41:05 AM
It was good to blow off some steam, K'Nara had to admit to herself...but, all too soon, the revels were ended.
"Let's get some sleep, Talons," she told the others, "We have to set out for Perpaguil in the morning." She went to her bed with a light heart for the first time in months.
Figment Friday December 28th, 2001 10:18:56 PM
The mage smiles as he finishes his dance with the warrior woman. Holding her hand perhaps a bit longer than necessary. "It was my pleasure to dance with you this evening, K'Nara. I hope it will not be the last.".
He retires for the evening with the others.
Olana Monday December 31st, 2001 2:20:54 PM
The evening comes to an end far too quickly for Olana, and she gives Milo a warm hug. She hadn't had so much fun in ages.
Still, it was time to rest. Who knew what they were going up against on the morrow.
"Hey Fluet, that was great!" she says enthusiastically.
Ingrge (Jan) Monday December 31st, 2001 2:24:27 PM
Ingrge retires with the others. "Having fun?" he asks the giddy Olana with a wry grin.
He then settles into a few hours of quiet reverie.
K'Nara Tuesday January 1st, 2002 6:30:59 AM
Not quite dawn: K'Nara finds a suitable spot to begin her daily exercise of the sword-and-sorcery techniques that would someday entitle her to the official title of bladesinger. She uses the silver-metal earpiece that allows her to communicate with Greymalkin of the Gold Dragons and spends a good two and a half hours practicing the intricate, dance-like steps of the elvish art of the bladesong. Anyone witnessing the routine would likely be fascinated by the graceful technique that interspersed the beauty of the dance with the deadly application of blade and magic.
K'Nara stopped about an hour after sunrise--there was a bath and breakfast with her name on it, not to mention the fact that the Talons had an appointment to keep with some elven orphans at Perpaguil.
She had her bath and her breakfast and--as soon as the others were ready--went to make sure that the Emerald City Tines had no pressing need for the Talons. Once this was cleared, the journey to Perpaguil began.
Milo Tuesday January 1st, 2002 11:05:38 PM
Dizzy from dancing, Milo is quite satisfied with himself as he makes his way to bed, intent on sleeping away the better part of the morning.
Happy New Year Talons... (DM Chris) Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 9:54:52 AM
It is a bright new day, and the Talons rise with the morning, feeling fresh, new and ready to take on whatever they will. For those who have chosen the road to Perpaguil, it is pleasant journeying. While folk still seem to feel the boot, or talon if you will, of Parnoth, they do somehow sense that change is in the air. Whether it be for good or bad, is anybody's guess.
Figment Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 2:22:42 PM
When the Talons get to the elven city, he goes and looks at the tree he gave them the seeds to plant - to see what has happened to it. (i.e. The high druid gave the Talons all golden apples which healed and refreshed them completely when eaten. Figment gave some the seeds to the elves and kept some himself - which he still has.).
Olana Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 5:34:22 PM
Olana will accompany K'Nara to the hidden elven community, also curious about the orphaned ones. Hopefully they would have settled somewhere and afforded the tranquility needed for a true elven upbringing.
Ingrge (Jan) Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 5:36:51 PM
Ingrge follows the others, wishing to ask if the elves there knew anything about the disappearance of Parnoth.
Brother Bertram Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 7:57:35 PM
Bertram follows along cheerily contemplating a new career for himself.
Milo Thursday January 3rd, 2002 12:44:25 AM
Joining in the trip to Perpaguil, Milo stocks up on candies and small toys before leaving, hoping to have something to pass out to the children when he arrives.
Lian Thursday January 3rd, 2002 12:46:02 AM
Lian is just as happy to accompany his new found friends, interested in exploring all manner of elven life outside of the deep forest.
K'Nara Thursday January 3rd, 2002 6:35:09 AM
"I do hope that those children sought asylum in Perpaguil," K'Nara said as the group traveled to the village, "If anything happened to them, I swear I'll hunt down every single member of the Obsidian and kill them for slaying the children's parents in the first place..!" The redhead scowled at the thought.
Do You Know the Way to Perpaguil? (DM Chris) Thursday January 3rd, 2002 10:24:42 AM
The road journey, though relatively easy on such a fine day, is also quiet... a little too quiet. As the Talons make their way north toward Titania along the road, they note that many of the farmsteads along the way appear to be abandoned. On the doors to the homes within is branded a mark that resembles a bow with the arrow drawn back, superimposed over a hand. (Make knowledge-religion checks)
It isn't long however (a couple of days) before Titania comes into view and the group can start looking for the road that heads east toward their destination. As the Talons get closer and closer to Titania, they can see that a swath of the forest surrounding the city has been clear cut, giving the guard atop the wall a clear view of all who approach. Though it is midday, the gates are closed.
Figment d20+5=20 Thursday January 3rd, 2002 11:03:59 AM
The mage evaluates carefully the symbols. Troubled at all the emptiness. "I suppose the farmers went to the cities after the event with Domi. I wonder why a religious sect is branding these places?".
K'Nara d20=9 d20=16 Friday January 4th, 2002 6:39:30 AM
"I don't know, Figment," K'Nara said to the mage, scowling because she couldn't fathom the meaning or origin of the symbols, "I get the feeling that some kind of purging may have been happening here--if I recall correctly, most of the homesteads in this area of the kingdom are inhabited by mixed families...you know--humans and elves with half-elf offspring." (OOC: first roll was for Religion Knowledge; second roll was for Local Knowledge [the bit about the type of people who live in the area.] K'Nara is highly suspicious that the elf-purging groups encouraged by Parnoth have started getting out of control.)
Flueterflam d20+2=19 Friday January 4th, 2002 3:35:14 PM
The bard carries on several tunes by whistling as they pass by the quiet surroundings. He takes some time to study the brands on several of the homes. When the group approaches Titania, he exclaims, "I wonder why the gates are closed."
Olana d20+11=23 d20+8=20 Friday January 4th, 2002 8:00:53 PM
The elf frowns. "Well this doesn't look right," she says, and has a quiet word with Ingrge. She then moves left of the gate, searching for any signs of ill-doing. ((TRACK 23, SEARCH 20))
Brother Bertram Sunday January 6th, 2002 9:02:47 PM
Bertram slowly loses his good cheer as they approach the city proper. He pulls his axe from its cradle and watches about for any signs of movement, friend or foe.
Milo Monday January 7th, 2002 2:11:48 AM
Milo is unusually silent after the group starts to spot the strange symbols. He seems to be concentrating a great deal as he spends time studying each one. A perpetual frown seems to darken his face.
Liam Monday January 7th, 2002 2:18:30 AM
Liam doesn't know quite what to make of the strange symbols, though he doesn't get a particular warm feeling when he looks upon them. He doesn't let it get him down though, taking in the wide world as he rides alongside the Emerald Talons.
Love Hurts
Dialing it up a Notch (DM Chris) Monday January 7th, 2002 10:13:28 AM
The guards at the gates of Titania were less than welcoming. Though given current events it isn't totally unbelievable that they would be somewhat uptight about the security of their home. Never the less, you turned East toward Perpaguil, hoping to see some sunshine in the Wold. Metaphorically speaking of course. The further and further you traveled from Titania, the more the memory of the guard's words haunted you. "There is no sanctuary, whether in or outside a barricade. Love is run rampant, and folk fear for their very souls."
As you enter the small town called Perpaguil, you notice at once that something has changed. For one, no children, elf or otherwise, greet you as you stride down the road. Many of the homes in town seem to be abandoned, the brand of the bow drawn superimposed over a hand burned into the doors. The main activity seems, strangely enough, to come from the orphanage. as you approach, you see that the front doors and windows have been reinforced with iron and solid oak framing. The front doors are branded with an all-too-familiar symbol, and shouting can be heard coming from behind a newly constructed wooden palisade that encloses the entire rear of the building, including the outside play areas. A chill runs down your collective spines as you hear children's voices chanting, "Love is pure... love is right... love can cure... love is MIGHT!!!"
Figment Monday January 7th, 2002 10:54:19 AM
The mage looks troubled. (Hey, Figment made his Int check - he should know the symbol and it's meaning.). "It appears to me that this is the hands of love again. I wonder if the group that was thrown out of the city has been busy - or perhaps some of their friends. We must find the leader of the city quickly!". The mage knocks on the door to the orphanage.
Ingrge Monday January 7th, 2002 7:22:27 PM
Nodding to Olanna, Ingrge lets her do her thing until he hears the children. Then with a silent grimace of pure, unadulterated, rage, his normally blue-green eyes turn slate gray. And in a very controlled voice, devoid of all feeling says, "I do think that it is time for the Hands of Love to feel some of my personal affection." Grabbing his staff, he strides up to the door and without even waiting strikes the door with his staff and mutters "Open and enter." (Staff- Knock spell) As the door opens he walks in looking for the nearest HOL adult to be seen.
Olana Monday January 7th, 2002 9:14:11 PM
Of the same mind as Ingrge, Olana nocks an arrow. There was going to be trouble here.
She stays by the door, in missile range.
Milo Tuesday January 8th, 2002 2:03:45 AM
Seeing Ingrge's anger, Milo winces muttering, "Well so much for subtlety..." The halfling draws his short sword, and for the first time in a long time, activates his ring, becoming invisible as he dashes up to flank the door that Ingrge just knocked on.
K'Nara Tuesday January 8th, 2002 6:54:12 AM
The tall redhead found herself in no mood for subtlety, either. Once Ingrge had the door open--though Lucia remained in its sheath--K'Nara immediately stepped into the building, her sharp hazel eyes looking for whomever was in charge and intending to demand where the elven orphans from the forest were.
Brother Bertram Tuesday January 8th, 2002 7:50:54 AM
Bertram gives a grim smile immediately upon hearing that it might be his 'friends' from the Hand. Gripping his axe tightly he hurries after the long-legged Ingrge.
Liam Tuesday January 8th, 2002 9:50:27 AM
Anticipating trouble, Liam stays where he is, preparing to enter without moving closer to the door. Turning to Olana he half grins, "Can't you feel the love?" Obviously the voice of sarcasm.
Be Prepared... (DM Chris) Tuesday January 8th, 2002 9:56:25 AM
It seems quite apparent to Figment that the bow and arrow are the holy symbol of Caerolda, and the hand is an alteration signifying this particular sect of the Hand of Love.
Apparently the Hand of Love were more prepared than Ingrge and K'nara anticipated. The elf's knock spell results in two resounding clicks, as two latches on the interior come undone. However the door remains closed, barring the way. (Everyone make a Listen check please.)
Figment d20+6=20 Tuesday January 8th, 2002 1:21:45 PM
The mage listens to the locks click. He continues to listen carefully. He shrugs and also casts knock on the door hoping to undo the barrier.
Brother Bertram Tuesday January 8th, 2002 5:33:09 PM
Bertram watches Fignent and waits to see the results of his spell
Olana d20+2=9 Tuesday January 8th, 2002 6:45:27 PM
The elf nods at Lian. "They're like a plague," she whispers. Ears alert, she steps down the side of the building. Perhaps there was another way in. ((Listen check 9 - sheesh))
Ingrge d20+2=19 d20+3=22 Tuesday January 8th, 2002 7:53:01 PM
Nearly banging his nose on the door as it doesn't seem to want to open, Ingrge stops for a moment, and since his ear is all but touching the door anyway, listens to hear what can be heard.(listen 19) If the sounds don't appear to be too horrifying, Ingrge kicks in the door, diving into the room, low and to the right. (Strength roll 22)
K'Nara d20-1=16 Wednesday January 9th, 2002 8:01:29 AM
K'Nara cocked her head to one side, her patience evaporating as she realized that the door was not opening with the Knock spell.
"That's it!" she snarled through gritted teeth. As Ingrge kicked in the door, K'Nara hauled Lucia out of its sheath, pausing a moment before deciding to not activate its flaming properties...
...she just wasn't angry enough for that--yet.
Milo d20+12=31 Wednesday January 9th, 2002 10:34:46 AM
Milo steps up to the door, having a look at the lock in place. "Don't kick the door please, I'm standing here." The halfling announces in a quiet voice. Then pulling a number of strong, slender tools from hidden locations on his person, the invisible rogue sets to work on the lock, all the while talking quietly, "Sounds like one of those fancy multi-tumbler dealy-bobs... thats a technical term of course. Those things sure are expensive, but folks buy 'em to keep you wizardly types out, as they tend to foil knock spells. Really it is kinda like a big combination lock with multiple combinations, and muliple bolts as well. Seems to me that if you wanted to keep your stuff safe that badly, you could find a better way to do it." (OOC: Made an Open Locks check DC 31)
Liam Wednesday January 9th, 2002 10:36:07 AM
Turning to Olana, "Does Milo always ramble on like that when he is doing someting illegal?" The elf's amusement is plain on his face. He has clearly relaxed somewhat as entry doesn't seem entirely imminent.
Stymied Entrance... (DM Chris) Wednesday January 9th, 2002 10:44:58 AM
Figment's knock spell results in another pair of resounding 'THUNKS', however the door does not open. Listening at the door, Ingrge can hear that the two bolts he unlocked, are relatched, even as Figment's spell undoes a third and fourth bolt. As Ingrge steps back from the door, and bashes it, he discovers that it is just as solid as it looks. (Ingrge takes 2 hps subdual damage) As Milo works on the lock, the Talons can hear the bolts sliding back in regular progression. 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' 'THUNK' As the door is unlocked.
Olana d20+8=19 Wednesday January 9th, 2002 6:34:47 PM
Olana shrugs at Lian. "Maybe it's a form of relaxation," she whispers, "unless a 'deely bob' is some form of spell. Who knows."
She winces as Ingrge bounces off the door, ((Search check 19)) then has a scout around to see if there's another way in.
Brother Bertram Wednesday January 9th, 2002 8:01:39 PM
Bertram shoulders his way forward. "Friend Ingrge, the door appears equal to kicking it in. I propose instead we take it apart--one piece at a time." Bertram swings his large axe knocking a goodly sized chunk from the door. He begins swinging with a will.
Milo (Invisible) Wednesday January 9th, 2002 10:57:52 PM
Milo, who is standing invisibly in front of the door screams, "Wait Bertram... wait... I think I got it... don't swing." Reaching up, Milo grabs the handle and pushes in on the door.
LIAN d20+10=25 Thursday January 10th, 2002 1:17:50 AM
Lian whispers to Milo; "Hey, maybe life might be easier on you if we just knock politely and ask if we can be converted with the children." Smiling, Lian turns to the group and states; "If the Hands want to convert the kids, it will be a whole new generation of bickering idiots." "Really though, I think we should just storm it, beat in the door. But patience may yet prevail." OOC:Listen at the door, Listen check of 25, what may I hear other than tumblers and Milo's breatheing.
K'Nara Thursday January 10th, 2002 6:39:58 AM
The woman warrior's patience was wearing very, very thin. Milo's work was relatively quick, but having to unlock an entire series of deadbolts did nothing to reassure K'Nara that it might be possible that the children within the building were participating in anything that was at all beneficial for them!
The tall human bladesinger resolved to enter the building as soon as the door was totally unlocked and opened!
Lets Get it On.... (DM Chris) d20+7=23 d20+7=17 d20+7=10 d8+2=8 Thursday January 10th, 2002 10:17:08 AM
From her vantage, Olana doesn't see any other obvious way into the newly fortified orphanage. Chips fly as Bertram's axe connects with the door right above where Milo's head was, and the door doesn't even shudder in its frame. However, when Milo grabs the handle and pushes in, the door does indeed slide silently in, and to one side revealing a half a dozen soldiers in chainmail with shields and longswords. Behind them stand three women with longbows, nocked and drawn. They let fly. An arrow thunks into Ingrge (hit AC 23 for 8 hps dmg) solidly imbedding itself in the elf's shoulder. One goes careening off of Bertram's armor, and the third is easily sidestepped by K'nara, standing somewhat further back.
Flueterflam d20+9=11 Thursday January 10th, 2002 3:46:59 PM
The bard rolls off to the side of the door, unsheathing his shortsword right as he lands. (ooc: Tumble DC 11). He becomes prepared for anything, hoping that nothing more will happen.
Olana d20+11=13 d6+2=4 Thursday January 10th, 2002 6:23:24 PM
The elf moves quickly, arrow already nocked in her magic short bow, firing her first shot toward one of the opposing bow women. The shot proves difficult because she's behind some of the others. ((4 dam if it connects))
Ingrge d6=6 Thursday January 10th, 2002 7:20:13 PM
Staff in hand, Ingrge mutters a curse and with a sharp few words utters "Shade-n-hue." (Color spray spell from staff: affects six opponents) (will DC 18).
Figment Thursday January 10th, 2002 11:35:16 PM
The mage casts improved invisibility on himself. He then moves through the door where he can see - when there's an opening. (Drawing?)
K'Nara d20=17 d20+8=26 d10+4=14 d20+2=16 Friday January 11th, 2002 6:15:10 AM
K'Nara's brow wrinkled as she did something rather unusual for her--she tried to think. Well--it was unusual that she would pause to do this right after somebody firing an arrow at her, anyhow.
She tried to dredge her memory for recognizing any of the people in front of her as being rightful citizens of this particular town. (OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check of 17; DM to decide if she happens to recognize that these fighters are, indeed, Titanian or not.)
If K'Nara doesn't recognize the people as being the rightful defenders of the orphanage, then she'll attack the closest person to her, attempting to push back the defenders as she does so. (OOC: hits AC26 for 14hp damage.)
However, if K'Nara DOES recognize that these defenders are, indeed, supposed to be here (in other words, that they are not HoL lackeys), then she'll demand to know who is in command and to see the head of the facility, because she has important news for them. (OOC: made a voluntary Intimidation check of 16.)
Milo (Invisible) d20+10=20 Friday January 11th, 2002 10:29:40 AM
Milo steps inside the door after Ingrge's spell goes off and attempts to tumble through the line of soldiers in front of the doorway. As he somersaults in however, he loses his footing, and bumps into one of the soldiers, which knocks him back to where he began. Fortunately he is still invisible.
The Fight for Love... (DM Chris) d20+1=8 d20+1=10 d20+1=12 d20+1=13 d20+1=12 d20+1=8 d8=6 Friday January 11th, 2002 10:42:28 AM
Olana's shot flies high missing her target, however, Ingrge's color spray blasts forth a myriad of colors, knocking all of the warriors unconscious, and leaving a huge opening for Figment. K'nara realizes that the symbol on the warrior's livery as well as the women's medallions is that of Caerolda, superimposed over a hand, and that these are indeed NOT the rightful caretakers of this establishment. Moving in, she slashes one of the women, bringing her down. Milo realizes that the man he rebounded off of, could not indeed have been a soldier... perhaps in invisible Figment? The remaining women step back, dropping their bows in unison, they both cast spells. The first spell goes off, and the Talons all hear an ear-splitting burst of sound. (All take 6 hps and make a Will save DC 15 or be stunned for your next action) The second spell goes off as the woman drags an iron nail across the air in front of her. (K'nara make a Will save DC 16 or be held)
Figment d20+7=14 Friday January 11th, 2002 12:00:11 PM
The mage is stunned and stands dazed, trying to regain his composure from the attack.
Flueterflam d20+4=24 d20+5=19 d6=2 Friday January 11th, 2002 3:30:34 PM
Flueterflam stands up and charges the women casting spells, despite the pain. As he does so, he attempts to cut down one for making such a harsh mistake. (ooc: hits AC 19 for 2) While doing so, he yells angrily, "BIG mistake."
Ingrge d20+4=15 Friday January 11th, 2002 6:18:49 PM
Once again cursing as he is struck by the pain of a wound, Ingrge manages to shake off an impending sense of indecision and reaching into one his robe's pocket pulls out what appears to be a tattered piece of cobweb. Tossing it into the air and blowing it toward the woman with the nail clearly says "Spider twist and Spider spun, affix thy web from that wall to that one."
(Web spell; DC 16)
Olana d20+6=21 d20+11=27 d6+2=4 Friday January 11th, 2002 10:30:46 PM
Half way through re-loading her bow, the sound spell goes off. The noise reverberates, making Olana's eyes water, but not enough to stop her letting another arrow fly *WHAP* - toward the one waving what looked like a piece of metal in the air.
She couldn't see Milo or Figment, and although she didn't worry about hitting Milo too much because she was aiming high, she hoped Figment was keeping low, or out of range.
Brother Bertram d20+5=13 Saturday January 12th, 2002 7:49:19 PM
Bertram hears and feels a great booming and falls to the ground stunned by the confusion and sound.
Lian d20+10=19 Monday January 14th, 2002 5:35:28 AM
Lian stands 'readying' to pull out any of his companions who fall.
"Bertram!" Lian moves, cart-wheeling in to drag out his friend out of harm's way, whether spells are being cast or not.
OOC: Made Tumble check, DC 19, +2 Synergy bonus from Jump if it matters.
K'Nara d20+5=9 d20+5=20 Monday January 14th, 2002 6:07:10 AM
K'Nara bellowed at the sudden burst of sound, pausing to shake off the stunning effect. (OOC: didn't save against the Stun, but DID save versus being Held.)
Milo (Invisible) d20+5=16 d20+10=20 d20+10=26 Monday January 14th, 2002 10:17:43 AM
Standing in the doorway, Milo evades the web spell as he tumbles between the women in the hall to end up on the other side of the web area. Coming up on his feet, he pivots turning back to see that he has been cut off from the group. (OOC: Made Will save vs. sound burst, Made Ref save vs. web, made Tumble check DC 26 to tumble through a threatened area)
Gummin' up the works... (DM Chris) d6=5 d20+4=11 d20+7=24 Monday January 14th, 2002 10:25:42 AM
Flueterflam cuts deeply into one of the clerics of the Hand, making her sure of her mistake, just as the arrow from Olana's bow catches her in the throat, laying her low. The remaining archer is caught, held fast by Ingrge's web spell, though Flueterflam manages to successfully dodge back away from the sticky mass. Milo tumbles through the area, unwittingly cutting himself off from the rest of the group, and Liam successfully pulls Bertram out of harm's way. This hall seems to be the main way into the complex, and requires either burning or cutting the webs in order to make it passable.
Ingrge Monday January 14th, 2002 9:31:21 PM
"Olana, why don't you and Fluet toss our unconcious and unwebbed friends in to the web?"
Walking up to the webbed archer, Ingrge scowls at her and with no trace of mirth in his voice says, "Give me a reason why I shouldn't introduce you to the loving warmth of a fire's kiss."
Brother Bertram Monday January 14th, 2002 9:35:16 PM
Bertram groggily nods his head to Lian and gropes about for his axe. Feeling his hand close upon it gives him reassurance even if he still isnt in complete control of his senses.
Figment 4d4(2+4+1+1)+4=12 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 12:05:41 AM
Regaining his senses the mage moves on by the group - as far as he can without being caught in the web and casts a magic missile at the remaining priestess (12 DMG).
Lian Tuesday January 15th, 2002 2:39:10 AM
"Here you are Bertram. Get to your feet friend, let me help you." "Are you ready to do these Hands some harm? I have been waiting for this." Lian claps his hands together and rubs them together. "Bertram my friend... after you." Lian bows to Bertram and extends an arm toward the door.
K'Nara Tuesday January 15th, 2002 7:11:35 AM
The human bladesinger shook off the effects of the Sound Burst and helped Olana toss the unconscious foes into Ingrge's sticky Web.
"Is everyone okay..?" she asked. "Milo...can you see about scouting out where the children are and if they're all right? We don't HAVE to go busting into the classroom and needlessly scare 'em to death."
However, K'Nara would be damned before letting the Hands of Love continue their brainwashing classes here!
Milo (Invisible) d20+14=28 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 10:08:41 AM
Hearing K'nara's request, but not wanting to make any noise on this side of the web spell, Milo quietly pads off in search of the children.(Made Move Silently check DC 28)
Black guard of Caerolda... (DM Chris) d20+2=14 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 10:22:53 AM
Figment's magic missile slams into the remaining cleric just as she is starting to struggle in the webs. She immediately goes limp.
Something tall, dark, and not-so-handsome approaches the other side of the web, apparently not noticing Milo in his invisible state. It is difficult to make out what exactly is there, until the web begins to part, practically disintegrating away. Then all is clear as a tall human figure steps out into the front room. The cleric that was caught in the web, slumps to the ground. He speaks not at all as he comes toward your group, wearing full plate armor enameled black with swirling red designs all over its surface. In one hand, he wields a ebony bladed long sword, that seems to pulsate with unholy energy. The other arm is adorned with a large shield that bears the head of a lion. Strange, but you think that the lion's head moved.
Figment (Improved Invis) Tuesday January 15th, 2002 1:16:33 PM
The mage move over to K'Nara "It's me, I'm casting on you. Stand still.". He casts stoneskin on her (7 - 10/+5). Lasts for 70 minutes.
Lian d20+6=7 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 5:29:19 PM
"Bertram!? What is that thing?" Lian points to the armor clad giant approaching the group.
Lian begins to string his short bow, not having used it since a hunt in the woods around home months back. Lian takes aim and fires and the dark visage.
Hitting only the wall over the armored giants shoulder (AC 7, rolled a natural 1), Lian positions himself behind Bertram. "Bertram, maybe I will cover your approach. I will never hit HIM unarmed."
Olana d20+11=15 d6+2=7 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 8:24:40 PM
Olana helps drag fallen foes over to the web. "Er.. how are we going to get past this web thing and - oooh, who's that?" She backs off, bow drawn. "He doesn't look very friendly," she adds - as usual, stating the obvious, and sends an arrow in his direction.
((7 dam if hit))
Brother Bertram d20+6=25 d10+5=15 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 8:42:59 PM
Hearing Lian, Bertram shakes the cobwebs from his head and looks at the ominous figure approaching. Seeing an opening part through the webs, Bertram charges, absent-mindedly murmuring a prayer to Domi as he swings his axe with all his might at the dark figure.
Ingrge d4+1=4 Tuesday January 15th, 2002 11:30:10 PM
Also stepping up to K'nara. "I too am going to cast a spell on you to aid with your dancing." Cast Cat's grace: 1d4+1 bonus to Dexterity points adding any benefits to AC reflex saves and anything else using dexterity mods. K'nara +4 dexterity for 6 hours. After casting Ingrge steps back and starts going thru his repetoire of spells that can be used.
K'Nara Stoneskin, Cat's Grace d20+8=25 d10+4=14 d6=6 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 6:59:01 AM
K'Nara's hazel eyes narrowed at the sight of the heavily-enchanted warrior--oh, yeah...this guy was bad news.
"Make sure the children are safe." the leader of the Talons said out loud, then added: "Lucia!" Her bastard sword flared to fiery life, and the human bladesinger slung her blade in a whirling motion straight at the unknown warrior, slicing at him through the rest of the webbing he was parting, setting it on fire.
(OOC: K'Nara's blow hits AC25 for 14hp of damage, plus 6hp fire damage from the flaming sword. The fire should burn up the Web, I think.)
Flueterflam Wednesday January 16th, 2002 8:44:30 AM
The bard stays out of range of this new eerie figure, but close enough that he can easily backup K'Nara should all her enchantments fail. Just before she moves in for her attack, "Just let me know if ya need me."
Fluet takes a moment, to glance around the 'hall' that they are standing in, to see if there is any other exit than the stairs or front door.
Milo d20+14=30 d20+8=16 d20+8=14 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 10:29:59 AM
Turning on one heel, Milo follows the dark figure out through the hall, back to where his friends are, moving as silently as a mouse. Waiting for just the right moment, he watches as K'nara steps up to attack the man in black armor, and then strikes from behind, his blade careening of the armor as it whirls in for a double blow. He reappears, his invisibility dispelled by his attack. A look of horror is plain on the halfling's face.
Blackguard... (DM Chris) d20+17=28 d8+8=14 d6=3 d6=4 d20+12=23 d8+8=9 d6=4 d6=2 d20+17=23 d6=3 d6=4 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 10:42:05 AM
Olana's arrow goes careening off the man's armor to no effect, but K'Nara's blow strikes true, sinking into flesh, and burning all the same. He doesn't even flinch, though it is clear that he is wounded. Milo's blows indeed are ineffective, though the blackguard is somewhat startled by the sudden appearance of the halfling. A hollow voice issues from the helmet, "Greetings and well met fools, I am Dem'lione Blackheart, servant of the heart, and I am your doom." Swinging his ebony blade, he strikes K'Nara soundly, his unholy blade sinking into her side. (Hit AC 28 for 21 hps damage.) Then pivoting in place, swings at Milo as well, smiting the rogue. (Hit AC 23 for 15 hps damage.) Quickly in his follow up, he spins on K'Nara once more and speaking an indiscernible arcane word, the lion's head on his shield comes to life biting K'Nara. (Hit AC 23 for 7 hps.)
Figment 4d4(2+2+1+3)+4=12 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 11:08:12 AM
The mage casts magic missile at the ebony warrior striking him squarely in the chest with all 4 missiles (12 DMG).
Figment (Improved Invis...) Wednesday January 16th, 2002 11:08:41 AM
Forgot to mention he's invisible.
Olana d20+5=11 d20+5=22 d6=3 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 7:04:36 PM
Growling in frustration, Olana pulls her swords and lunges at "old doom face" just as soon as she see's those MM's go whistling past. Hopefully she manages to nick him for 3.
Flueterflam d20+5=19 d6=6 d20=18 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 8:16:06 PM
As he see K'Nara becoming very injured, Fluet immediately becomes too enraged to stand still. With all the speed he can muster and more somehow, being amplified by his battle rage, the bard flies at the warrior and jabs his short sword into its stomach. (ooc Hit AC 19 for 6) Even if the bard's sword cannot penetrate the warrior's armor, he makes his best attempt to slam into it and confuse it somewhat. (ooc: voluntary 'slam' DC 18 ...wow)
Ingrge d20+8=24 3d6(6+6+6)=18 Wednesday January 16th, 2002 9:07:07 PM
From the side blackguard's side, Ingrge casts another spell and reaches out and touches the Blackguard (AC 24, Vampiric touch, no save 18 points damage to blackguard +18 HP to Ingrge)
Lian d20+10=23 Thursday January 17th, 2002 1:32:56 AM
Lian sees that all of his friends are engaged with Mr. Blackheart, he takes the oppurtunity and back-flips into position behind him with Milo.
(OOC:Take the attack of opportunity, Dodge and Moving Defensively AC 22, Tumble Check of 23 plus 2 from Jump for a total Tumble of 25.)
K'Nara (Stoneskin, Cat's Grace) d20+8=28 d20+8=27 d10+4=5 d6=3 d10+4=9 d6=6 Thursday January 17th, 2002 7:05:48 AM
The blow from the sword looked nastier than it was--thanks to the timely casting of Figment--but the humanbladesinger reeled from it anyhow. The animated lion's head almost freaked K'Nara out, but she managed to curb her shock. By the Dark Lord, this one was going to be a foe to contend with!
Injured but unwilling to give up the fight, K'Nara danced as the Maulk had instructed, then struck as soon as she sensed an opening in the unholy warrior's defenses--Lucia weaving in and striking soundly.
"Love this!" hissed K'Nara as her flaming sword bit deep into the blackguard. (OOC: Critical hit! Hits AC28 and then AC27 for 14hp sword damage and 9hp fire damage.)
Milo d20+8=28 d20+8=12 d20+8=19 4d6(3+3+1+6)+1=14 Thursday January 17th, 2002 10:22:08 AM
Milo steps up after that blow, flanking the Blackguard and sets his blade in motion. His first swipe misses the evil warrior, but his second, sinks into his back. (Hit with a natural 20, but not a critical for 14 hps dmg)
Crack of Doom... (DM Chris) d20+12=27 d20+8=13 d8+13=16 Thursday January 17th, 2002 10:38:18 AM
Figment's magic missiles slam into Dem'lione, but he keeps on coming. Olana's blows are deflected without harm, as are Flueterflam's. When Flueterflam steps in to slam the Blackguard, he sidesteps the bard who hits nothing but air. (Fluet make a Reflex save DC 15 to keep your feet.) The Blackguard reels when Ingrge hits him with the vampiric touch, and again with K'nara's massive blow. Liam reaches his chosen destination without an attack of opportunity (Nice tumble check) and Milo's attack sends him forward. Setting himself, the warrior steps and swings, concentrating all his unholy might into a single attack focused on... K'Nara's sword. Striking the flaming sword at the hilt, and sundering the weapon, causing a crack to run directly up the center of the blade, and the flame goes out. (OOC: Used Sunder feat to attack K'Nara's weapon. Hit AC 27. Rolled K'Nara's attack roll to defend for an AC 13. Did 16 hps to the flaming sword, that has a hardness of 11 (10 +1 for magic enchantment) and 5 hps).
Flueterflam d20+7=26 d20+5=24 d6=6 Thursday January 17th, 2002 11:16:24 AM
Fluet easily catches himself from falling as he realizes the dark warrior has moved away from his attempted battering. (Reflex DC 26) The bard easily swings around and comes at the warrior again. This time however, he swings his sword at the legs of the fiend, hoping to knock its knee out and temporarily cripple Dem'lione. (Hit AC 24 for 6 hps wow!)
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 Thursday January 17th, 2002 12:59:34 PM
The mage casts his missles once again at the evil paladin hitting him squarely again for 15 DMG).
Lian d20+6=25 d20+6=14 d8-1=2 d8-1=0 Thursday January 17th, 2002 4:49:27 PM
Lian attempts to hit the iron clad warrior.
Hitting him with lightning speed for 2 points of Damage from the first blow.
OOC: Flurry of Blows, first hits AC 23 (modified from 25) and the next is AC12, not including any bonus for Flanking.
Ingrge 3d4(2+3+4)+3=12 Thursday January 17th, 2002 7:11:53 PM
Feeling stronger than he has felt in a long time, Ingrge casts yet a third spell, sending three bolts of energy ripping into the Blackguard. (magic missile, 12 points)
Olana d20+5=25 d20+5=13 d8+1=7 Thursday January 17th, 2002 8:51:44 PM
Aware of those around her, Olana dives in with both blades again, this time hopefully connecting with her longsword for 7.
This one wasn't going down easy.
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 Thursday January 17th, 2002 10:23:29 PM
Bertram realizes his attack did no harm to the warrior who ignored him, instead focusing on K'nara. Seeing the others were not having much success, Bertram tries something different. Dropping his axe he grabs Dem'lione's right foot and lifts straight up with all his might. His mighty thews crack as he feels the foot raising and he groans with the exertion as the dark warrior resists him.
(OOC Will let you decide if it worked :) )
K'Nara (Stoneskin, Cat's Grace) d20+8=26 d6+3=8 d20+8=23 d6+3=9 Friday January 18th, 2002 8:17:55 AM
K'Nara dared not let her shock at her beloved Lucia being sundered show--this warrior was entirely too deadly to give that advantage to. Instead the wily bladesinger spun in place, taking advantage of the Cat's Grace spell in order to execute several maneuvers in what appeared to be one fluid motion:
K'Nara released the handle of her trademark bastard sword, reached over her right shoulder, clasped the handle of the magical scimitar sheathed on her back, pulled it free of its scabbard and used the rest of the momentum of her spin to bring the blade out and around, slashing viciously at the man who'd just destroyed Lucia.
(OOC: Crit Hit for at least 8hp damage, 17hp total.)
Milo d20+8=22 d20+8=23 Friday January 18th, 2002 10:04:59 AM
Seeing the man taking the onslaught, Milo spins his short sword swinging at the dark warrior, and missing the mark as his enchanted blade is turned aside each time, by the man's armor.
Love on the Run... (DM Chris) Friday January 18th, 2002 10:24:30 AM
Dem'lione is staggered again and again as the Talons lay into him with a fury. Fluet, Olana, and K'nara all lay into the man with bladed weapons, while magic missiles from both Ingrge and Figment slam into him. In a final move, Bertram grapples the man by the leg, expecting to find resistance where there is none. Lifting, the man is flung to the ground where he lay still. A black, brackish smelling smoke rises from his armor, which falls apart as his demon-wracked body departs this plane of existence. His sword collapses into ash.
Rushing into the orphanage, the Talons catch the cleric of Caerolda as she is preparing the children for some kind of mass ritual sacrifice. However, as the group interrupts her ceremony, she speaks but a word, and in a flash of light and a sucking of air as it rushes to fill the space she once inhabited, she is gone, her plans foiled.
The children are happy to see the Emerald Talons once again. Some laugh and dance about, while others collapse into tears. A silent few, merely sit where they are, reacting to little as though stunned from their experience with the Hand of Love.
(Its been fun guys. For those of you who don't already know, Monday ya'll will have a new DM. I'm stepping down due to time and work constraints. Though I'll still be playing Milo.)
Figment Friday January 18th, 2002 11:32:03 AM
Still invisible, the mage moves around the area looking for any sign of other opponents. When he's sure all is clear he releases his spell. He slowly comes over to one of the older children and kindly places a hand on him. "My good boy, where are the adults? Do you know what has happened to them?".
Olana Friday January 18th, 2002 7:40:49 PM
"Oh!" says the startled Olana as Figment winks back into existance. "There you are," she chuckles.
After asking K'Nara quietly if she's alright, she attempts to engage the more silent children in conversation, and beckons to Bertram. "This is Bertram," she said. "He picked up that nasty man and just threw him down on the ground. Isn't that just wonderful?"
Lian Friday January 18th, 2002 11:13:46 PM
"Uhmm, friends... what was that?"
Rubbing the back of his neck, Lian walks over to Bertrams axe and picks it up, then hands it to his friend. Then Lian picks up his bow from the doorway.
"Bertram, I have never seen a dwarf drop a weapon to attack an armor clad foe! Very impressive my friend. I do not believe I harmed him at all."
"K'nara, how are the children?" Lian turns, remembering why they are actually here.
Lian then begins to stretch out the knots in his muscles by doing his Kahta excercises.
K'Nara (Stoneskin, Cat's Grace) Saturday January 19th, 2002 7:31:10 AM
"I am all right, Olana," K'Nara assured the ranger, "Let's make sure the children are okay..." She joined the others in confirming the relative welfare of the children and additionally ordered any of the Hands of Love left behind to be tied up, helping to do so herself.
Finally, she returned to the antechamber where the Talons had defeated Dem'lione. The only items left now were the pile of ash that had once been the fighter (OOC: did the lion's-head shield go up in smoke, too? You didn't say in the DM post)...and the sundered Lucia, which the tall redhead slowly picked up from the floor, turning the rent, now-useless weapon over in her hands.
Lucia was dead. K'Nara face grimaced and it looked like she was about to cry.
"Damnation!!!" the curse seemed to be torn from her very soul. "The Gold Dragons of Plateau City gave this to me--it was presented to me by Greymalkin himself!!!" K'Nara choked back a sob. "If it's the last thing I ever do, I'm going to find that priestess and chop her up into steak tartare!!!"
Lian (again) Saturday January 19th, 2002 8:32:12 AM
"Lucia... the light.... has been extinguished, for in light there is hope, and now it is dark..." Lian sits down from his excercises, and hangs his head in mourning. Then as if realizing the irony, raises his head smiling, almost laughing and says... "...but as light shines, it cuts the darkness and only castes shadow!" "Lucia truly cut the darkness K'nara. There is light left in this building, the pure light of children."
Milo Saturday January 19th, 2002 4:44:12 PM
Looking very sad for K'nara, the halfling steps around the warrior woman and reaching into a pouch that he keeps tucked in his shirt, with a leather strap that encircles his neck, Milo pulls out a handful of large rubies and emeralds that he has been saving for just such an occasion. It is obvious there are more in the pouch. Looking K'nara in the eye sadly, "Just ask, and Alemi will provide. I've been saving these for a rainy day... well... its raining... and I just may know where we can get you a new sword... perhaps a better sword."
Ingrge Saturday January 19th, 2002 8:50:42 PM
Wtching as the Blackguard falls, Ingrge follows the others deeper in to the orphanage. "Well now that we have dispensed some love, Talon style, lets see what we can do for these children." As he sees the priestess about to sacrifice the children, he raises his staff and charges her. Just as he gets within striking distance she vanishes, leaving Ingrge with a bitter taste in his mouth. As the children swarm over the Talons, Ingrge allows his guard to relax a bit and every now and again a smile is seen to flit across his grim visage as he helps carry the children in to the daylight.
Ingrge too feels for K'narra, as she mourns for her bladed companion. "K'narra I'm sorry about Lucia, I understand how you feel about her. I would feel very much the same were the staff that Joe Hand gave to me were broken." If there is any way I can help, just let me know."
K'Nara Sunday January 20th, 2002 8:35:37 AM
The empathy and commiserations of her companions didn't seem to penetrate the mix of grief and anger that enveloped the human bladesinger...but K'Nara lowered the ruined blade that had once been Lucia and blinked down at Milo as the generous halfling made his offer to her.
"Oh, Milo, my friend..." she said, this time with tears falling from her eyes, "...thank you so much for the offer. I'm just angry that those Hands of Love bastards wrecked up Lucia. A warrior can fight with ANY weapon, but Lucia was special because of the fact that the Gold Dragons themselves gave it to me. Nothing could ever replace that..." Still cradling Lucia tenderly, the tall human went down on one knee and hugged Milo with her free arm.
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this offer to me, though," K'Nara said sincerely, "I really DO appreciate it." She looked at Lucia once more, then retrieved the sheath for the blade and reverently slid the sword into it.
"I have some money--I'll use it to have Lucia repaired." the leader of the Talons said matter-of-factly. "I have the scimitar to use until then." K'Nara packed Lucia into her backpack, patting the bundle after she was finished securing it. "Until then, Lucia...until then."
Brother Bertram Sunday January 20th, 2002 9:00:18 AM
Bertram smiles his thanks to Lian as he grips his familiar axe. "We usually don't but the weapons for once didn't seem to be working. And I am not the same dwarf I used to be anymore my friend. As for throwing that fiend down, twas nothing, he weighed but a pittance. Now we must enjoy our time here and the adoration of these children." Bertram smiles gently and picks up a smiling toddler, holding him tenderly.
Olana Sunday January 20th, 2002 5:19:22 PM
Olana pondered Lian's words as she collected arrows that could be repaired, and helped with the children. She had begun to think that Lian was completely and utterly barking mad, but of course she was too polite to say so. Still, what he'd said just now made sense. He seemed to do things so very differently, still - tribes were tribes - they all had their own ways. On her way to find Fluet, to make sure he wasn't brooding somewhere, she found herself watching Ingrge. He'd make an excellent father some day.
K'Nara Monday January 21st, 2002 6:32:07 AM
The well-being of the children was paramount; K'Nara and the Talons searched the area (OOC: the whole village if they have to!) for the adults who were supposed to be in Perpaguil. Once they found out the fate of the grownups, K'Nara confirmed whether the elven orphans who'd helped them earlier were here and being taken care of.
Once that was done, the Talons would be free to assist the Tines in making sure the Kingdom stayed stable in Parnoth's absence.
Flueterflam Monday January 21st, 2002 11:20:47 AM
The bard roams around, helping out when/if needed. Otherwise he distances himself from the group and appears to just be finding solace in staring out into the sky. He whistles to himself. Though, his face presents a look of curiosity and questioning.
Fluet finds times, however, to ask Olana, "This is all so dream like. Sometimes I don't even feel like I am completely aware of myself. Why is everything so strange lately?" He asks without expecting an answer. It seems that he just finds comfort in hearing his own voice after not speaking for awhile.
Figment Monday January 21st, 2002 11:24:40 AM
The mage mentions to K'Nara "Do not discard Lucia, perhaps it can be mended - but I would expect to be using another sword from now on. I mourn your loss - such a magnificent weapon. But remember, it was destroyed in the cause of good. What better way to be remembered, or live your life.".
Love/Hate Relationships or Things are such a Drag....on
DM Kent Monday January 21st, 2002 1:40:48 PM This is not the normal daily post as the module has not yet been approved as Jerry is sick. I will post that post this afternoon or early this evening.
As the Talons are gathering the children around them still invigorated by the recently completed combat, a loud "BOOM" echoes through the town, shaking the orphanage to its foundation. As the echoes die out a shrill voice is heard. "YOU WILL LEARN OF THE LOVE OF CAEROLDA and DIE IN THE PROCESS. This I swear by my soul of my departed LOVE."
Having defeated the local 666, the Emerald Talons are left with a few days of cleanup and organization.
Most of the Perpaguil's adults are found, buried in a shallow mass grave near the back of the orphanage. A few adults, bruised and battered, but for the most fine are happy to see you and to learn of your victory. These few adults however seem to be simpleminded and childlike themselves.
The Talons have now acquired 16 HOL prisoners, one of which has the sign of Caerolda superimposed on top of a Crest of Domi. Some of the older children have told you that there were nearly thirty in the group that were welcomed in to the city just a month ago.
A messenger arrives, staying for just a moment, and lets the talons know that there is to be a meeting between Marteus and Alemi.
Found in the room obviously used by the fled priestess: 3 flasks filled wih a clear liquid, 2 scrolls and a small chest with 3000 gold.
Found near the ashy remains of the blackguard: mithril full plate armor, lion's head shield, 3 masterwork daggers, and 4 flasks filled with a clear liquid.
Figment Monday January 21st, 2002 2:11:03 PM
Over the days in town, the mage attempts to discover what happened to the farmers along the countryside, fearing they too have been murdered by the HOL. He also takes part in interrogating the prisoners, trying to learn anything he can about what has happened to the goddess of love. He also reads the scrolls, identifies the potions, and detects magic on the mithril armor, the masterwork daggars, and (presumably) the ebony sword the demon was wielding - the one that destroyed Lucia. He attempts to identify any of the above if necessary.
DM Kent Monday January 21st, 2002 5:08:18 PM
One day after their battle, as the Talons are deciding where they should go and what they should do with the children. They hear loud screams, shouts and the sounds of fighting coming from the warehouse where they have been keeping the prisoners. Going to check on what's going on, they find 10 other HOLs, who obviously were trying to free their 16 fellows. The problem is that for some reason the prisoners and their rescuers are now divided in to two groups and look like they are trying to kill each other. (Everyone make spot checks DC 14 anyone with knowledge religion may add +3 bonus)
The Former Domi-ite and 7 others are facing the other 18 and not doing too badly but it is only a matter of time. The smaller group, keep yelling something about saving their opponent's souls and coming back into goodness, and come over to the side of the ONE, the true Goddess. The larger group are chanting, "Caerolda is Love," "Feel her Love." It is very obvious that the larger group is soon going to be the victor, just through sheer numbers.
Figment 7d6(6+2+4+2+1+6+6)=27 d20+6=18 Monday January 21st, 2002 5:26:23 PM
The mage looks closely at the groups trying to determine what's going on. He decides not to wait on analysis since all of them are escaping - and viewing their activities over the past several days thinks they should all be executed anyway. He blasts them with a fireball - but focuses it to catch as many of the larger group as possible since a more even match will result in less work for the Talons (27 DMG).
Olana d20+2=11 Monday January 21st, 2002 7:41:26 PM
The elf listens to Fluet talk. "Unless you feel unwell, maybe you're just trying to be objective. You are a bard, and you have stories to tell after all. "Or maybe it's just a way of coping - by distancing yourself a little. We've all been through some harrowing things together. Physically you're alright, though?" Her eyes look him over, critically - just in case he may have wounds he is hiding or is unaware of.
Providing Figment gives the all clear, Olana mentions that one of those daggers might come in handy when she's skulking around.
The discovery of the dead elves hits her very hard, and she is most sorrowful. The mere mention of Hands of Love, or any Gods of Love for that matter makes her feel rather bitter. So when the latest uprising occurs -
((11 on Spot check - blah)) "Maybe we should just let them kill one another," she says, nocking an arrow, the pleas of the minority falling on deaf ears. She doesn't shoot yet though.
Brother Bertram Monday January 21st, 2002 9:03:40 PM
Bertram shouts out above the din to the Ex-Domite. "You would swing to this filth, Brother? Surely there is goodness left in your soul?"
Lian d20+6=21 Monday January 21st, 2002 11:05:36 PM
Hearing the questions made by Bertram to his "fallen" brethren, Lian walks quietly up to Bertram. "My friend, his soul was weak, not having stayed with Domi and blindly going to Caerolda!"
"Let them sort it out."
OOC:Spot Check of 21, without Knowledge: Religion.
Flueterflam d20+2=17 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 12:53:35 AM
The bard studies the two groups, trying to grasp the circumstances of the situation. (spot DC 17) He was never much of one into religion, and as each situation comes to pass, he feels more and more distaste towards it.
"I'm glad I never got involved in religion." Fluet exclaims. Before Figment casts his spell, the bard asks, "What are we going to do about this?"
As he notices the fireball blast into much of the group, "ok...nevermind...."
Milo d20+10=25 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 1:37:37 AM
Milo races over next to Figment to see what is going on just as the wizard cuts loose with a fireball. "Wait no... wait... you're going to kill... them...." Milo stops momentarily to attempt to ascertain what in the blazes is going on between the two groups. (Made a Spot check DC 25 with my +3 for having Knowledge-religion)
K'Nara d20=19 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 6:48:44 AM
K'Nara gave Figment a sad smile.
"Discard Lucia?" she echoed. "Why, never in a million years, my friend! No--I'll see if we can't have her repaired in Emerald City...even if the repair is merely cosmetic and I could never fight with her again, I would still keep Lucia--she is a memento from the Gold Dragons, you see, and as such is quite dear to me."
The treasure found was gathered together, and K'Nara entertained ideas of leaving at least part of the gold here to the survivors of the HOL invasion of Perpaguil--she asked the others in the party what their opinions on that matter was. (OOC: email me with your votes to give some of the money to Perpaguil to help them out; we could give the village all the money, part of the money, or none of the money.)
The clamor from the makeshift prison drew everyone's attention and presence, and K'Nara was astonished to see the HOL people fighting amongst themselves so! However, her keen hazel eyes picked out the obvious faction split amongst the group--something must have happened to cause this...but finding out the why's and wherefore's would have to wait until later.
K'Nara nocked an arrow of her own and spoke to the clerics of her party:
"We'll be needing a couple of Silence spells in order to keep this from becoming a bloodbath--" the leader of the Talons told them, "--center whatever you have on the larger group...I never DID like a bunch of bullies picking on smaller opponents..."
K'Nara waited to see the outcome of Figment's fireball before picking a recipient for her readied arrow.
Ingrge d20+2=3 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 5:50:59 PM
Oblivious to anything other than the fact that the HOL are fighting among themselves, Ingrge chuckles to himself, "Couldn't happen to a nicer group of a@**&%. At that moment Figment's fireball goes off, catching Ingrge's attention. "Don't you think that is a waste of good magic? I mean they are already trying to kill themselves."
DM Kent d20+3=14 d20+3=22 d20+3=19 d20+3=20 d20+3=12 d20+3=18 d20+3=12 d20+3=12 d20+3=11 d20+3=14 d20+3=8 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 6:19:59 PM
Just before Figment's fireball goes off, Lian, Fluet, Milo, Figment, and K'nara all can see, that where before, all the HOL members had borne Caerolda's dark, symbol of the Bow and Arrow of Love, it seems that the majority seem to be sporting a new symbol, that of a twin headed serpent engaged in a passionate embrace. The smaller faction still bears the Bow and Arrow of Love only now it seems brighter and more pure. It is the smaller group that is calling on the ONE and arguing for the others to come back to the path of good.
Figment's Fireball goes off in the middle of the crowd, and due to his recognition, catches nine of the Serpent wearing larger group and 2 of the smaller group. Seven of them fall to the ground crisped while the other four remain still standing though they seem very wobbly.
None of the combatants even seemed to have payed much attention to the spell. A few glanced up, but then went right back to their fight. There are now 12 serpent wearers, and 6 of the bow symbol standing.
Olana Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 7:56:33 PM
The elf bites her lip on seeing some of the crazed clerics burned to a crisp. After all, despite being angry at what they had done to the village, she reckoned this wasn't a good example to set to the children they'd rescued.
"Maybe we should find out what all this is about!" she yells over the chaos. "Let's try and split them up."
Heeding what K'Nara said, she waits until any spells are cast, before she enters the fray.
Brother Bertram Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 8:18:26 PM
Bertram shakes his head sadly then quickly walks between the groups, ready to break it up or be broken in the trying.
Figment d20+6=15 6d6(5+5+6+6+4+1)=27 d6=4 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 8:58:18 PM
Still not too concerned about the fact that he popped 2 of the HOL from the smaller group, the mage considers what he is seeing (DC 15). "Now THIS is truly interesting... the smaller group now appears to be calling on the One - a known evil god - and the others on Caeroldra - a presumably good god, but one who has been demonstrating evil recently. And this larger group wears a new symbol - and the smaller group the old Caeroldra symbol - but is now calling on the One and claiming goodness... confusing... AND the symbol of the smaller group is no longer black - but shiny, like you would expect a good god's symbol to be...". After a moment he moves to where he is to the side of the larger group and he forks a lightning bolt at the larger group getting as many as he can - being sure to keep a safe distance. "I don't know about the smaller group, but the larger group is definitely evil - AND it has more of those who murdered the villagers here. They deserve to die anyway so if I toast'em I'll not lose any sleep...". (NOTE: Since there isn't a map yet, the goal here is to get as many of the larger group as possible. If a striaght bolt would get more use it instead. Figment is smart - so he'd adjust.)
Figment Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 8:58:51 PM
31 DMG from the bolt.
Lian d20+6=8 Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 9:43:23 PM
Lian moves with Bertram to meet the groups.
"Bertram, thier numbers are great... this should be fun." Lian smiles and pulls neck to neck with Bertram.
OOC: He is moving Defensively, AC 20. Lian will also be paying close attention to who might be casting spells or readying a bow. Spot Check of 8. Apparently he's paying very close attantion, doh!
Milo Tuesday January 22nd, 2002 10:57:47 PM
Making his mind up, Milo casts protection from evil on himself, (increases AC to 19 vs. evil folk, and gives +2 to saves vs. evil folk's spells) then charges the serpent bearing HOL's drawing his short sword as he moves. He purposefully stays behind Bertram and Lian as they run in (not that he has much choice) so as to look for flanking opportunities.
K'Nara d20+9=12 d6=5 Wednesday January 23rd, 2002 7:00:52 AM 'So much for strategy..!' K'Nara thought to her herself with resignation as both the cleric-types in the party went charging off towards the HOL cleric group.
"C'mon, Olana, let's back 'em up!" the tall redhead said to the ranger, then let her arrow fly at the first HOL member who appeared to be casting.
(OOC: hits AC12 for 5hp damage...if it hits.)
Olana Wednesday January 23rd, 2002 6:07:31 PM
The elf nods at their warrior leader, pausing enough to let Figment's spell fly by first, then pulls both her swords and moves in alongside K'nara and behind Lian and Bertram. This is going to be a defensive battle for her, the aim being to separate and re-imprison - unless the Talons are direly threatened.
DM Kent Wednesday January 23rd, 2002 7:29:15 PM
Through the intervention of the Talons along with Figment's incindiaries, the followers of Caerolda are fried to a crisp. Killed as well are several followers of The One, and none remained unscathed. Still alive are three of the follower's of the One including the former Paladin of Domi.
You have come to the conclusion that you are going to need to find the children and the few simple adults remaining a new home for there is no way they can survive on their own. the nearest town is Dunadori to the North.
As soon as it is obvious that the others are dead, the Paladin throws his cudgel down and starts administering first aid to his wouned fellows. As he lays his hands onm their wounds, they are bathed in a bright light and the wounds heal. The paladin sits for a moment and then cries out "Praise to the ONE, THE Goddess of Love" As soon as he finishes he falls to the ground in what appears to be a siezure. Moments later he stills and starts to speak.
"The Gods have met Marteus has promised the death of Alelmi and all that oppose him. The gods are at war. " Prepare for the END OF THE WORLD"
Moments later the four remaining live simple-minded adults from the town arrive and as one start chanting.
"The One has joined with Alemi, Praise the One! The Gods are at war! The end is near! Marteus has Sworn the death of those who oppose him. The End is Near. Save the Wold! Praise the One! Praise Alemi! Caerolda has betrayed the Wold. Praise to Alemi! Marteus will destroy the Wold! Praise to The One!
Seconds later a scream is heard from near the orphange. You find several children sitting holding hands and whimpering. Every now and again they speak a phrase in sequence. "So....Much... Fire... Death.... Mountains.... Fall ... Lakes .... Boil ... All .. goes... Black.
As they finish they as well as the simpletons and the paladin all seem to come out of it at the exact same time. None of them seem to remember anything.
The next few hours are spent organizing the children and figuring out exactly what needs to be done.
During this time a very bloodied and near death elven messenger, still gripping the remains of his broken bow, arrives telling of multiple dragon sightings and then realizing that he is speaking to mostly children, goes silent. With a sigh he collapses and says. "
So this town has already fallen, I was coming for aid against a beast that is now harassing the Town of Dunadori, but I see I am too late. I fear that by the time I get to another town it will be to late for my people of Dunadori."
Brother Bertram Wednesday January 23rd, 2002 11:14:26 PM
Bertram is shocked by what he sees but for the moment ignores it and concentrates on comforting frightened children. He pulls them all to him holding as many as his stout arms can reach. "Rest easy little ones, for tonight you are safe in my arms."
Figment Thursday January 24th, 2002 12:28:59 AM
Upon additional information the mage winces at the thought he may possibly killed some good people - but then realizes that they had committed crimes against this town - new god or no. The were still guilty. He looks over the group of living clerics to determine if any of them were with the first group - the one that murdered in the name of their god.
With all the priests around the mage hopes one of them offers some help to the elven messenger. If not, he gives him a potion of healing to stem the tide of his injuries. "The next town will not be any help either. They would not even let us in their gates. I doubt they will help - even if they are able. I do not know how we will fare against a dragon, but I'm sure we will be willing to try. Our leader is the warrior woman, she will decide our course.".
Milo Thursday January 24th, 2002 1:40:03 AM
Hearing the seizured proclamation of the paladin, Milo's face goes slack, his arms drop to his sides, and his short sword falls from his grasp. Moving quickly, the halfling moves from person to person, looking for the injured, and coverts what little magic he has left into healing. (That is one cure light wounds and three cure minor wounds) Tears are streaming down the halfling's face as he digs through his stuff, pulling out three potions of cure serious wounds, and looking to save the lives of those who follow 'the one'. Those who have allied themselves with blessed Alemi. (Let me know how many of the three potions I use up. I'm looking for those on the brink, the rest should be able to heal themselves.)
Lian Thursday January 24th, 2002 1:42:04 AM
Lian staggers back at the proclamation, halting his charge in mid-stride, and begins moving back toward K'nara and the Talons. Uncertainty is etched plainly across his face.
K'Nara Thursday January 24th, 2002 8:12:12 AM
K'Nara frowned when she realized that none of the Perpaguil survivors would be able to stay here at the village. And--while Dunadori was closer--it had been her intention to herd everyone south, back to Emerald City, where the Tines were anticipating the Talons to return.
Then came the revelations of the runner from Dunadori, as well as those from the surviving sect members and the children of Perpaguil.
"This...is NOT good." the redhead understated, rubbing the back of her neck. She thought about their situation, and that of Dunadori, asking the runner if he could tell them what KIND of beast threatened his village--was it one of those dragons that appeared to be converging on the Emerald Kingdom, or some other creature? Did he think Dunadori could hold out while her own party rested up and recovered spells? If Dunadori could, then the Talons would heal and rest before going north to see if they could help, while the runner could heal up and rest before accompanying the survivors of Perpaguil south to Emerald City.
"I have to stress that we'll be going to Dunadori one way or another," K'Nara said firmly, "I just hope we can rest a bit first. I also suspect that--if we see that the threat to Dunadori is too powerful for our meager numbers--we may be running all the way to Emerald City ourselves!"
Ingrge Thursday January 24th, 2002 6:44:48 PM
Having seen that the party had the fight under control and realizing there wasn't much he could add to the conflagration, Ingrge headed back to be with the children. Hearing the odd chanting, begins to fret a bit and herds the children in to a tighter circle and placing himself between them and the noise, waits to se what happens, only to be scared to death by the sudden shrill unison screams of the orphans behind him. Whirling, sword in hand, he stands slack jawed as he watches them all convulsing on the ground and then sitting up and starting their chant. When the rest of the Talons arrive, Ingrge looks at their strange companions and shrugs helplessly. Finally as things calm down Ingrge helps with the children as best he can in his gruff way.
At the arrival of the messenger, Ingrge scowls and then shakes his head. He waits to hear K'nara's thoughts before commenting.
Olana Thursday January 24th, 2002 7:10:46 PM
Olana kept herself busy - busy with the children, busy helping the wounded with field bandages, busy getting ready.....
All this Gods chaos. None of it could be good. In a way, she was almost glad when the injured elf arrived. Now they had a purpose, at least, and something to stop her mind wandering onto the subject of the entire land turning upside down and going crazy.
Busy, busy, busy, always busy......
DM Kent Thursday January 24th, 2002 7:12:56 PM
(OOC there was one full day between your combat and these happenings, so you should all be pretty close to fully healed. Since I can assume spells would have been used as opposed to leaving wounded)
(OOC2 Figment > let me know what you tried to ID in the day that you had)
Between the clerics of The ONE and Milo's spells everyone that was near to death is at least mostly cured, including the mesenger. (no potions were needed)
The messenger's head sags as he hears Figment's proclamation about the next town But once he is healed, he responds quickly to K'nara's questions, by saying that he doubts that Dundori can last more than a day or so at the most, due to the fact that many of their warriors and hunters are away at an elven council several days north of the Tree of Parting. At the question about the beast, The Elf's eyes glaze over for a moment and a shudder visibly runs through his body. I don't know that it is a dragon, in truth as it has no wings, but it is huge, nearly humans long and wieghs, were I to venture a guess, around the weight of 30 large humans. True enough it is scaled and has many large teeth but it has 12 legs. Atop its head are two nearly 6 ft horns. It is purple in color and throws great bolts of lightening. it grabbed my hunting partner in its mouth and swallowed him whole. Please say that you will come and aid our town.
The party quickly makes its way to Dunadori, without incident, kids in tow, where they find the town in total disarray. It is very obvious they are going up against something, as there are ragged char marks along the town palisade, as well as several totally destroyed homes. The gate has been destroyed and has been blocked up by several overturned wagons and many sandbags. The Talons are greeted almost as heroes and a "feast" of sorts is made ready for them. The dinner is very plain fare and obviously a stretch on what remains of the town's resources. The town's folk readily and almoast joyfully accept the wardship of the children and the few adults from Perpaguil. They are also even glad to see the followers of The One.
This is when the party can get more info about what it is they face from other eyewitnesses.
Brother Bertram Thursday January 24th, 2002 9:18:54 PM
Bertram is heartened by the welcome they received, but quickly excuses himself and moves to where he feels he can do the most good; helping to fortify the remains of the front gates. Defense was yet another aspect of warfare that he had learned from the teachings of Domi. Bertram rolls up his sleeves and begins helping and directing where needed to get the gates up to snuff.
Figment d20+6=7 Thursday January 24th, 2002 10:51:50 PM
The mage looks concerned as the elf describes the creature. He tries to ID such a beast but really doesn't have much of idea. With a great sigh and grave look of concern he asks "It has 2 horns instead of one, but this thing doesn't have one eye and fly does it?"
(OOC: He also read the 2 scrolls, identifies the potions, and detects magic on the mithril armor, the masterwork daggars, and the ebony sword the demon was wielding - the one that destroyed Lucia. He attempts to identify any of the above if they detect magic. )
Milo Thursday January 24th, 2002 10:58:56 PM
Standing nearby, Milo listens to the elf's description of the beast in the next town... and then a strange thing happens, something that hasn't happened in awhile. Milo gets that quirky look on his face, and before the elf says another word, he bursts out laughing, "Thats a good one... mister, I've heard some fish tales in my time, but that one takes the cake... There is no such thing as a 12 legged, 6-foot horned, scaley whateveryoucallit. I've told some whoppers in my time... hell, I even fooled," looking over at Figment, "Well, we even fooled ol' Parnoth with some pretty astronomical fibs, but that one is just too much." Milo collapses to the ground, laughing hysterically.
Lian Thursday January 24th, 2002 11:01:23 PM
Lian stops to look at Milo as if the halfling were possessed, starts to say something, and then thinks better of it. Looking at K'nara, "Perhaps I'll go talk to some of the townfolk about that... um... that creature." Lian spends some time circulating amongst the adults, asking for more information regarding the next town and the creature that is terrorizing it.
K'Nara Friday January 25th, 2002 7:01:14 AM
(OOC: I don't know if the party had the time to Identify the treasure left behind after Dem'lione's defeat, but they definitely would have taken it along with them.)
K'Nara listened carefully to the runner's descriptions, throwing an odd look at Figment when he asks about whether the purple beastie flies and has but one eye. She pondered the situation for a moment and then asked several questions of the people the Talons met:
Did the beast seem to have a preferred time, place and/or method of attack?
Where/when was the creature last sighted?
Did anyone notice any kind of quirk or weakness to the monster at all?
Once these questions were answered, K'Nara turned to the others in her group.
"We need to track this thing and find out where it's going to between attacks." she said firmly. "Olana, do you think you can find out more about this...large guest of Dunadori's by using your tracking and woodlore skills..? Anybody else got any ideas on how to find out more about this thing? The more we know, the better our chances to survive an encounter with it."
Figment Friday January 25th, 2002 11:05:46 AM
OOC: You know... One eyed, one horned, flying purple people eater. Even though the song never said anything about the arms... :).
Olana d20+12=16 d20+10=20 d20+10=15 Friday January 25th, 2002 6:19:58 PM
Olana crouches alongside Milo, her look quite serious. "Never laugh at what comes out of Culverwood, my friend. It is a magic place. It can take a normal creature and twist it into something quite terrible. We must be respectful of the forest, lest it do the same to us, hmm?" She gives him a wink, then stands up.
At Dunadori, she nods at K'Nara and wastes no time in seeking out rangers such as herself or at least those who have forest knowledge, to see what they know of the creature - tracks, possible lair, etc. If they are able to show her anything the beast has left in it's wake, she studies it carefully. ((Wilderness Lore DC16 Knowledge Nature DC20 Search DC15 ))
Ingrge d20+4=16 Friday January 25th, 2002 6:58:48 PM
Ingrge shakes his head as he hears the messenger's description, as he tries to place what he has heard with things he has heard about. Something niggles at the back of his mind, but he just cant seem to come up with anything. As Milo makes light of what they have been told, Ingrge glares at him. "There was a time my friend when you thought Dragons were a thing of Myth. Then we met our green scaliness. What is to say this does not exist as well. Not to mention that by this mirth you are casting aspesions on those that have died and fought against this thing.
As they are welcomed to Dunadori, Ingrge feels a bit awkward to be hailed as heroes when they have done nothing to deserve it. He is quiet during the meal and stays in the background observing and listening.
DM Kent Friday January 25th, 2002 7:37:14 PM
As you all dine, the elf that led you here, whom you now know as Brealin sits with you and answers what questions he can or points you in the right direction. There are about 85 people at the dinner, Brealin, however seems to be the only male left in town that is not a child or an Elder.
The talons find out this information:
The beast showed up about a month ago as far as they know, ofr that was their first interaction with it. It attacked a hunting party coming back with several freshly killed deer. It killed and ate several hunters and then took off with the deer when the other hunters ran.
From that point onward game became very scarce, and about 10 days later, the beast attacked the town blasting apart the pallisade gate and eventually kiling and eating a dozen townies. the few remaining hunters and oldsters attacked it with some litte success.
There doesn't seem to be a particular rhythm to its attacks.
It always heads north in to the dep Culverwoods after any attack, toward some caverns.
It was last sighted yesterday afternoon when it made off with the last of our livestock and two herders.
It seems to act very much like a snake and even slithers along the ground on occasion. When it strikes, after biting, it often whips around and constricts its prey before swallowing it whole.
It also cast a lightening bolt and does it quite rapidly.
After dinner and a good night sleep, the Talons, with Brealin leading the way, head into the Deep Culverwood. The beasts path is fairly easy to follow. Along the way you see many strange looking plants and quite a few very bizzarre looking small animals and insects from a 24 inch, green and orange spotted, sqirrel with 6 inch fangs to a 5 inch red flying toad that snatched a 10 inch, black and red striped grasshopper from off Olanna's shoulder just moments after it landed there, with its yellow slime covered tongue. By midday you all realize that what has been missing, there are no signs of larger animals anywhere. The path is quite straight and by 3 in the afternoon, eventually leads to a cavern entrance. there are bones and scorch marks all around the area. several trees are lying splintered on the ground. After a bit of reconoitering you are not sure but you think that your quarry is in the cave somewhere.
Olana Saturday January 26th, 2002 12:49:43 AM
Culverwood - although Olana had wandered it's depths many times, it still brought surprises. The snap of the frog's tongue capturing a beast twice it's size made the hair on the back of her neck stand on end momentarily, but at least the creature had rid her of the insect. And the fanged squirrel? That was a first!
After the group had ascertained that their quarry was in the cave, Olana said -
"It seems we have two choices, we either go in together - or we flush it out somehow. Whichever we choose, I would suggest we attack at a distance - weaken it before we move in close, that way its bite, and it's constrictive body will be less effective."
Flueterflam Saturday January 26th, 2002 1:53:07 AM
The bard whispers carefully, "So what's the best way to go about this? It's obviously either inside as we speak.....or out and about. If it's out, staying in the cave and killing it in there might be the best way to go, especially if it can't whip around it's tail. But if it's in there now, then staying around the entrance could be the best way to catch it off-guard."
Fluet unsheathes his short sword and prepares himself mentally for any sudden attack by this beast.
Milo d20+14=24 d20+8=23 Saturday January 26th, 2002 3:00:03 AM
Milo is in good spirits as they enter the deep forested Culverwood. As they approach the tunnel, the halfling goes strangely silent. Looking up at K'nara, he whispers, "Perhaps I'll just have a quick look before we go rushing in?" Activating his ring of invisibility, Milo begins to move forward as quietly as he can, giving the opening of the cave a quick preemptive once over for possible traps and hazards. (OOC: Made a move silently check DC 24, and a Search check DC 23)
Brother Bertram Saturday January 26th, 2002 5:57:49 PM
"I dont suppose anyone has some magics that would cause that damn cave to just fall in upon itself?"
Figment d20+6=22 Sunday January 27th, 2002 8:52:36 PM
The mage looks at the opening to the cavern to determine if much of the ceiling could be brought down with a lightning bolt. He looks to Ingrge for his opinion. (INT DC 22)
K'Nara d20+1=3 Monday January 28th, 2002 6:20:10 AM
"Milo--no, wait..!" K'Nara hissed, swiping a restraining hand at the last place she'd seen the adventurous halfling before his invisibility took hold--but all her hand met was air. "We don't know if this thing can see invisible things like dragons do..!"
But Milo was off and sneaking.
"Well..." the tall human woman said as she turned back to the rest of the Talons, "...all I can think of is to perhaps lure it out here with the scent of a fresh kill--hunger seems to be the thing that causes it to come forth." K'Nara paused for a moment before adding:
"Say...do any of you have magics that protect against lightning..?"
Figment Monday January 28th, 2002 12:34:43 PM
"I don't K'Nara, but I can provide you some protection for it's direct physical attacks - stoneskin. If things work out, we could lure it to the opening of the cavern, Ingrge and I could blast the ceiling with lightning bolts to collapse it - that ought to slow it down, I could summon a swarm to engulf it and cause some damage and confuse it, I can also web it good once we pin it down under the ceiling rubble and hold it in the swarm longer. Once it breaks out of that, I can fireball it - and so can Ingrge, then I could fly up above it somewhere and blast it with magic missiles - as can Ingrge I'm sure. Also, I have an Improved Invisibility spell I could use to cover myself while I blast him - or sombody else who will eventually close with the thing. All the while, you fighter types can pepper it with arrows until we've softened it up. Then you can close and finish the job if it survives all that. Also, I'm sure it's immune to electrical damage so don't even bother using that form of attack on it directly. I'm sure Ingrge can add to the reportoire...". :)
Ingrge Monday January 28th, 2002 6:52:40 PM
Muttering mild curses about impetuous halflings, Ingrge responds to Figment's comment on Bertram's thought about collapsing the cave. Well,... it might work Figment, though I dont see much sign of weakness. That aside of course that option was just probably taken from us.
As for attacking it I expect that between the two of us we could make several of you formidable foes. I can cast Cat's grace on someone which will improve your eye hand coordination and grace and quickness (dexterity bonus of +1 - +5 with all benefits associated for 6 hours) I can also cast a spell called Bull's strength wjhich will make you stronger ( same bebfits only with strength) As for myself, I too can send a couple of fireballs and web as well as some magic missiles. I doubt much else that I have will have much effect on the beast if dragon it be. By using a scroll we could summon a couple more swarms as well.
DM Kent d20+10=28 Monday January 28th, 2002 7:13:56 PM
Milo disappears and K'Nara swipes her hand through air just after he leaves. He makes his way to the cave's entrance and realizes that the outside light is barely lighting the first ten feet of the opening and after that things get quite dark and smokey. The cave has a very carnal small up close and Milo has to wrap a cloth across his face to keep the air fresh enough to breathe.
Milo makes his way deeper in to the cave and after about 50 feet it obviously widens in to a larger space. The air is clearer and quite a bit cooler and less stuffy. Near the back of the cavern, Milo sees a large dark shape. The sixe of it all but boggle the halflings mind, but worse is when an instant later the huge head turns toward him and sniffs, one time very loudly. Milo is nearly bowled over when a loud booming voice rings out in common. "Well, It seems I have an appetizer come to call. So, are you going to come to me or am I going to need to catch you."
That said, the beast uncoils himself and with a deafening roar and a speed that belies his size, He darts straight at you and is now about 20 ft away.
Those outside waiting hear the vague sounds of what might be a loud voice coming from the cave and then a moment later a resounding roar is heard from within.
(map on its way)
Olana Monday January 28th, 2002 8:29:50 PM
Olana listens to Figment, and for a moment looks rather stunned. She is about to cover up her incomprehension with a solemn nod, when -
"Oh my, that sounds rather like a deafening roar, wouldn't you say? We'd better get Milo before it eats him."
Saved by the halfling, she darts into the tunnel.
Brother Bertram Monday January 28th, 2002 8:36:59 PM
At the sound of the roar, Bertram takes his axe and moves to the side of the cave opening where the monster would overlook him as it came running out. He mutters loud enough for the others to overhear, "Well it seems the creature took the bait of fresh meat we sent in".
Milo Monday January 28th, 2002 10:58:49 PM
Milo's springloaded reflexes propel him as quickly as possible away from the creature as the halfling runs as fast as his legs will carry him out of the cave. (Run = 4x movement which is 80 ft. That will take me out of the cave, and past K'nara.) As Milo goes sprinting past Olana he screams, "Its coming and its really biiggg!!!"
Lian Tuesday January 29th, 2002 5:06:15 AM
Lian moves up with Bertram. "Bertram, I have really enjoyed traveling with you."
Totally Defensive, raising Lians AC to 23 plus Dodge for a grand total of AC 24. Ready to Aid Another for Bertram's attack, page 135, PHB.
K'Nara d20-1=2 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 6:06:32 AM
The leader of the Talons doesn't hear anything until the roar, the pitter-patter of footsteps approaching and Milo's voice advising about their imminent visitor.
"So much for the element of surprise..!" muttered K'Nara as she drew out the scimitar she was now using in Lucia's stead. "Cast whatever prep spells you can, people, and then spread OUT--company's coming!"
With that, the human bladesinger cast True Strike upon herself and stood her ground, waiting for the creature to come out of the cave.
Brother Bertram Tuesday January 29th, 2002 8:42:53 AM
Bertram grins at Lian. "Things just keep getting better and better dont they Lian? " Bertram rolls his eyes and turns back to see if the dragon shoots past him following Milo.
Figment 7d6(4+3+4+3+4+6+3)=27 d20+6=22 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 10:47:34 AM
"Great, just great! Wait Olana!". Hearing the halfling coming out (DC 22) the mage casts a fireball into the cavern behind the fleeing Milo - hoping everyone has sense enough by now to wait and the mages cast before they close - especially on such an adversary as this (27 DMG). The mage immediately begins to cast again, standing behind K'Nara.
Flueterflam Tuesday January 29th, 2002 2:50:47 PM
The bard runs, not after Olana, but towards the other end of the opening of the cave. He stays just far enough off to the side, that a person inside the cave would not see him. Fluet sets himself in a position to charge whatever the beast is, which sounds like it is probably headed towards the group.
Afraid that this menace is much tougher than anything that he's ever fought, Fluet suddenly thinks of a spell that he learned once. However, he forgets it as his mind returns to what horrible beast will be appearing at any moment.
As each second rolls by, his heart seems to beat louder and louder until he looks to the others to see if they can hear the beating also. Flueterflam takes two very deep breaths to calm himself. He turns to the cave's opening and readies himself for anything to happen.
Ingrge d4+1=4 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 5:38:04 PM
Still muttering about irresponsible halflings, Ingrge literally swears aloud as the loud roar comes out of the cave followed by the sound of Milo's feet and his vocal warning. Immediately starting to cast Ingrge stands behind K'Nara and tells her he is casting Cat's Grace on her. Add +4 dex points and all appropriate bonuses to K'Nara for 6 hours. As soon as he is finished he starts casting again.
DM kent 7d6(5+2+5+3+1+4+2)=22 d20+15=26 d20+10=11 d20+10=19 d20+10=27 d20+10=17 d20+10=11 d20+10=25 2d4(1+1)+8=10 d4+4=8 d20+5=12 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 6:16:19 PM
(please post Save DCs for spells you are casting)
Milo hot foots it out of the cave with the beast coming in right behind him. The beast gets to the opening just as Olanna does and just moments later several things occur. Figment's fire ball goes zipping passed Olanna and the beast in to the cave.(27 points Reflex save for 13) Just about the same time the beast lets loose with a line of lightening 5 ft wide and 20 ft long catching Olanna square in its path. (22 points or reflex save for 11 DC19) Moments later the beast attacks the only target in its reach Olanna biting her and clawing her once for a toatl of 18 points. Several of the other attacks seemed to be about to strike her when the beast's claws got tangled with each other.
The beast looks to be about 40 ft long when upright 30 ft tall and seems to way over 2 tons. And it truly is purple on top and a pale blue on its underside.
Olana d20+8=12 d20+8=20 d20+11=16 d10=2 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 6:48:41 PM
Olana barely has time to register the sight of Milo shooting past her, when the cave entrance erupts in fire and lightning. With a yelp, she scrambles to leap out of the way of the bolt of lightning which, unfortunately sends her into the path of the fire ball. ((Failed save on fireball, made save on lightning - using Evasion - half damage becomes no damage)) And if that wasn't enough -
She manages to pull her sword, as the purple monster attacks with it's claws (ouch) and takes a swipe at it, angry at the pain and thoughts of her lovely long hair on fire. Not to mention being stupid enough to run in the tunnel. All this while trying to scramble out of clawing range. ((DC 16, 2 DAM wheee))
Brother Bertram d20+6=26 d10+5=13 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 8:41:54 PM
Even hearing the local's description failed to truly describe the horror of the creature. All of that was forgotten though as Bertram sees the creature attack Olana, Gripping his axe, Bertram runs straight at the creature giving out a warcry as he brings the axe down as hard as possible on the creatures soft underbelly.
Lian d20+6=20 d20+12=31 Tuesday January 29th, 2002 10:17:15 PM
Lian strikes out at the beast, (Aiding Bertram's attack, hitting AC 20 giving Bertram's attack a +2.) He back-flips into Flanking position (using Tumble plus 2 Synenergy from Jump, DC 31). Lian flanks with Bertram adding another +2.
"Bertram, go high, I will help you." Lian jumps and handsprings into help his dwarven friend.
OOC: Aid Another PHB pg. 135.
Milo (Invisible) Wednesday January 30th, 2002 2:01:21 AM
Casting protection from evil on himself, Milo stalks toward the creature, moving twenty feet toward a flanking position. (I know I won't get there this round, but I'd rather err on the side of caution.)
K'Nara (Cat's Grace, True Strike) d20=20 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 8:05:52 AM
(OOC: due to the Cat's Grace, K'Nara is now AC21 for the next 6 hours.)
K'Nara grimaced as the fire and lightning exploded in close proximity to Olana. She gripped the scimitar and ran forward, charging the scaly, dragon-looking beast. (OOC: it isn't a true Charge, though, as K'Nara has to go around Fluet, and so isn't running in a straight line. She can't attack this round, but will be able to the next round, as she'll be on Olana's left and in front of the beast.)
Something about the beast sparked off a bit of miscellaneous trivia that the bladesinger was just able to recall (OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check of 20), and so K'Nara yelled as she charged:
"Remember, Talons--we only have to keep this guy busy until the dragons get here..!"
Figment Wednesday January 30th, 2002 11:17:44 AM
The mage stays right behind K'Nara making sure to keep her between himself and the creature. He casts StoneSkin on her (7 - 10/+5). He mutters something about how expensive protecting flaming red heds is (250 gp per casting - OUCH!).
Figment, Cont. Wednesday January 30th, 2002 11:20:17 AM
The mage immediately backs straight away from the creature - making sure not to give it any attacks of opportunity.
Figment Wednesday January 30th, 2002 12:39:07 PM
The mage also attempts to determine if the fireball did any damage to the beast.
Flueterflam d20+2=18 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 4:49:42 PM
Seeing that distance would be his best bet for attacking currently, Fluet sheathes his short sword and unslings his bow. He pulls out and arrow and prepares to fire. While doing so, Fluet carefully looks at the beast for any signs of weakness to aim for. (ooc: voluntary Int check DC 18)
Ingrge d4+1=5 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 7:25:37 PM
Ingrge finishes casting (bull's strength on him self +5 strength for six hours) and moves toward the beast but knows he wont get there in time to save Olanna. He yells. "Olanna, GET OUT OF THERE NOW!!!!!!!!
DM Kent d20+6=23 d10=6 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 7:42:06 PM
The crispy elf Olana is looking quite wobbly as she faces the beast, when several others come to her aid to try and distract her.
Bertram's attack seems to have quite some effect as he carves in to one of the beast's forearms aided by Lian. (If you roll a potential critical hit, please roll a second attack if that also hits, then roll your addtional damage. I rolled for you.)
Fluet looks for a weak spot for his bow but doesn't see any.
Figment can tell the the fireball seems to have had some effect on the beast.
DM Kent d20+10=20 d20+10=24 d20+10=12 d20+10=19 d20+10=12 d20+10=13 d4+4=7 d4+4=7 d4+4=5 d20+15=34 2d4(2+1)+8=11 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 7:51:15 PM
The beast, singed, cut and now not very happy retaliate against those near him. He lashes out at Bertram, Lian and Olanna, striking Bertran with two claws (14 points), Lian with one claw (5 points) and misses Olanna twice. As the Beast has Bertram in his claws, he also attacks him with his bite not only connecting (for 11 points) but everyone watches as betram is swallow whole. (bertram email me)
Milo d20+10=28 d20+8=26 d20+8=16 4d6(1+4+4+1)+1=11 4d6(1+6+3+5)+1=16 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 9:22:28 PM
Alarmed that Bertram is swallowed whole, Milo begins to tumble in toward the creature, somersaulting himself into a flip and landing himself in a standing position next to Olana, though further in the cave from her, flanking the creature opposite Lian. (OOC: Milo made his Tumble check at a DC 28 in order to avoid provoking attacks of opportunity as he moved close enough to strike)
Short sword in hand, Milo sends the blade whirling, as he slices into the creature. (OOC: Milo hit AC 26 and 16 for 11 and 16 hps of damage respectively. Total is 27 if both attacks hit. Milo's dodge bonus is for the creature.)
Olana Wednesday January 30th, 2002 10:00:20 PM
Ingrge's yell finally registers, and Olana has no choice but to try and scramble away from the creature as fast as she can. ((Uncanny Dodge, if it will help)) She's hurt - bad.
She watches with horror as Bertram disappears down it's gullet, fingers hastily trying to bind as many of her wounds as she can (providing she can escape successfully).
Hopefully she'll be able to make some impact with her bow in the next round.
Figment d4+1=3 d4+1=5 d4+1=3 d4+1=2 Wednesday January 30th, 2002 11:53:57 PM
Helping with all the defensive stuff he can do - and seeing the horrific results of direct assault - the mage blasts the beast with 4 magic missiles. He aims his missiles at the throat region of the beast in hopes it prevents - or at least inhibits - its ability to swallow. He backs up as far as he can as well - not wanting to suffer the same fate as Bertram. (13 DMG).
Flueterflam d20+5=19 d6=3 Thursday January 31st, 2002 2:23:51 AM
Seeing Bertram swallowed, Fluet drops his bow and starts running. As he runs, he unsheathes his short sword. A VERY loud curses streams from the bard's mouth as he charges. He apparently loses track of much rational thought, thinking that he can save the dwarf.
If Fluet is close enough to attack, he will aim right for the throat of the horrible monster. (ooc: not sure if this can be same turn, because of the weapon change and current distance. if so, Hit AC 19 for 3hp)
Lian d20+4=10 d20+4=17 d8-1=4 Thursday January 31st, 2002 2:28:34 AM
Lian sees his friend disappear into the beast, a scream eminates from the young elf never before heard from him. Lian, infuriated, bounds at the beast. Attacking totally unarmed. Hitting AC 17 with the second attack for 4 DMG, make a Fort Save DC 16.
OOC:Flurry of Blows and Stunning Attack, Fort Save DC 16 or be Stunned for 1 round. 2 attacks at +4 apiece. Lians AC this round is 17, +1 Dodge and Defensive Action for a total AC of 21.
K'Nara (Cat's Grace, True Strike, Stoneskin) d20+28=40 d6+3=8 Thursday January 31st, 2002 8:06:27 AM
"You mean flaming auburns, Figment..!" corrected the leader of the Talons as she whirled her scimitar into action and took a swipe at the beastie that had just gulped down their beloved Brother Bertram!
(Hits AC40 for 8hp of damage.)
Ingrge d20+14=32 d20+14=25 d6+6=11 d6+6=11 Thursday January 31st, 2002 6:07:08 PM
Seeing Olanna attempting to get out of the way Ingrge knowingly steps between her and the beast, hopefully to take any attack aimed at her himself. Once in place, He uses his rapier almost as it it was a spear and strikes the beast burying his blade deep into its side. (Ac 32 possible crit. crit hit roll AC 25 damage 22 points)
Brother Bertram d20+6=23 d4+5=6 Thursday January 31st, 2002 6:58:15 PM
As Bertram feels himself tossed into the creature's fetid maw he does the only thing he can think of. As he begins sliding down the dragon's throat he pushes the blade of his axe down into the soft pallet of the throat lining, anchoring himself at that point inside the creature for as long possible using his left hand. His right hand is finally able to grasp his dagger, which he promptly begins sinking into the creatures throat, trying desparately to kill the creature or at least give it horrible indigestion with the hopes of being spit back out.
DM Kent d20+11=26 d20+15=20 2d4(3+4)+8=15 d20+15=35 d20+15=21 2d4(2+4)+8=14 2d4(3+2)+8=13 d20+10=20 d20+10=27 d20+10=22 d20+10=23 d20+10=22 d20+10=26 2d4(1+4)+8=13 2d4(4+3)+8=15 2d4(2+3)+8=13 7d6(4+1+3+5+6+5+6)=30 2d8(7+4)+8=19 Thursday January 31st, 2002 7:05:47 PM
Olana manages to crawl to relative safety as others move between her and the beast. Milo's whirling blades cut twin slices in to the blue scaled hide and the beast lets out a low moan as Figment's magic missiles strike home. The beast shakes off any extra effects of Lian's attacks, but again cries out at K'Nara's and Fluet's additional onslaught. As Ingrge's sword bites deeply, it again lets out a loud roar and a shudder runs through the beast.
The beast in turn retaliates as Ingrge moves in to provide Olana with a saftey net and gets caught by the beast's attack of opportunity, pulling his sword right out of his hands. (Damage 15 points)
The beast then attacks in full ripping into the attackers facing him, hitting K'Nara with a bite crit and crit roll AC 35 and AC21 (for 27 points) and hitting Fluet (13 pts), Milo (15pts) and Lian (13pts) with two claws each. Then just as you were hoping it was over with, a bolt of lightning flies out, catching Ingrge, K'Nara and Figment full in its path. (30 points each reflex save DC 19 for 15 points)
Inside the beast Bertram manages to dodge a sword blade that comes spearing through the beast's throat, but takes an additional 19 points of crushing damage as the beast's throat contracts and pulls you deeper down...
Milo d20+8=16 d20+8=27 d20+8=14 d20+8=26 4d6(4+1+6+1)+1=13 5d6(1+6+4+5+3)+2=21 Thursday January 31st, 2002 9:18:50 PM
Milo grits his teeth as the beast claws into him, maintains his flanking position, and keeps hacking away with his sword. (OOC: I hit AC 16 and AC 27 which is a critical threat, failed to confirm with a 14 so I spent a hero point at confirmed my crit with a 26. Damage is 13 hps [if 16 hits that is] and 21 hps for the crit.)
Figment d4+1=3 d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 d20+2=20 Thursday January 31st, 2002 10:33:36 PM
Seeing the creature prepare to cast the mage deftly avoids a lot of the damage. He then casts another set of missles at the creature, deciding to retaliate as opposed to going invisible. He tries to determine if the thing is being damaged much or if its just getting warmed up. (3+3+4+4=14 DMG)
Lian d20+8=24 d8-1=0 Thursday January 31st, 2002 10:58:40 PM
Lian does all he knows to do, he continues to attack the beast who has beaten down several friends. "Beast! I am Lian Siannodel, know me!" Lian again strikes (with a single attack) out at the beast, enraged. Hitting AC 24 (Flanking with Milo) for 1 DMG with a Stunning Attack, DC 16 Fort Save or be stunned.
OOC:AC is still 17, +1 Dodge and 3 from Defensive Action, Total AC 21.
Olana d20+12=29 d6+2=8 Friday February 1st, 2002 1:33:44 AM
Now fully aware of what fried elf smells like, Olana brings her bow to bear, firing at the monster in a rage. ((DC 29, DAM 8 ))
Figment Friday February 1st, 2002 12:00:47 PM
Figment also attempts to determine if the sheer size of this thing would prevent his web spell holding or even slowing this creature.
Flueterflam d20+5=23 d6=6 Friday February 1st, 2002 12:26:36 PM
"OUCH you freak!" the bard yells after getting clawed. The blood in his head is boiling. The longer Bertram was stuck in that thing, the less likely they would get him back alive. Fluet knows he has to do something, even it means that he kills himself in doing so.
Not knowing where the weak point of this thing was, and praying to every deity he can remember, the bard holds his sword tightly and runs it into the beast's lower stomach region. (DC 23 for 6hps) The entire time Fluet hopes that he doesn't hit Bertram, but knows of no other way. If he can keep his sword inside the monster, he works the blade as deeply into the beast and twists it as hard as his strength can muster.
Figment Friday February 1st, 2002 3:09:16 PM
(one other thing... sorry). The mage moves to his right so that the creature cannot catch him AND the front fighters with the same blast - he still keeps his line of sight and backs up still more but still in range of his missiles.
Ingrge d20+5=11 d20+5=15 3d4(3+3+2)+3=11 Friday February 1st, 2002 5:31:42 PM
Stunned at having his sword wrenched out of his hands and cut into by the beast's claws, Ingrge was unprepared for the bolt of electricity that seconds later, spewed forth from the beast's maw. (failed save, hero point used and failed again) Rocked and sure that death is near, Ingrge lets fly with a magic missile spell.(11 points)
K'Nara (Cat's Grace, Stoneskin) d20+6=20 d20+8=27 d20+8=24 d6+3=9 d6+3=6 Friday February 1st, 2002 6:38:28 PM
K'Nara reeled a bit from the physical blows from the reptillian horror, but they weren't as bad as they otherwise would have been had not Figment's Stoneskin spell been in place. The tall human also had the other spell to thank for her extra agility to avoid most of the effects of the lightning the behemoth spat at the group. (OOC: K'Nara made her save versus the lightning and "only" took a total of 32hp damage.)
The female fighter let loose a yell and sliced her scimitar into the electric beastie. (OOC: crit hit--hits AC27 and AC24 for a total of 15hp damage.)
Brother Bertram d20+6=23 d4+5=9 Friday February 1st, 2002 7:03:16 PM
Bertram, crushed, torn, and suffocating in the gullet of the beast tries desparately to cut free and slashes into the mucous covered throat of the creature, perhaps for the last time before losing consciousness.
DM Kent d20+10=30 d20+10=21 d20+10=25 3d4(3+3+3)+12=21 3d6(3+4+5)=12 Friday February 1st, 2002 7:36:58 PM
As the Talons reel from the beast's attack, they turn their focus more specifically on destroying the beast and the beast recoils and shudders as he is repeatedly slashed, pummeled and blasted. With a final gasp, it reaches out for and grabs Milo with two claws (21 points)and then collapses on top of him, Ingrge and K'Nara. (12 points each reflex save for 6 points)
Flueterflam d20=2 Friday February 1st, 2002 8:28:11 PM
Seeing the beast topple over, Fluet immediately feels for Bertram along the neck of the creature. When and if he can feel an unordinarily large lump, that being Bertram of course, Fluet cuts above the lump and tries his best to cut a large hole in the next. (voluntary strength check DC 2) However, the adrenaline that the bard expended seems to have drained him of most of his strength as he has a very hard time.
Lian d20-1=2 Friday February 1st, 2002 10:52:31 PM
Realizing that the beast has fallen, Lian leaps to help Fluet retrieve Bertram. Then seeing that no one had helped Milo yet, he begins to pull him free.
"Fluet, is there any movement from Bertram?! I hope he is not dead, I would mis..." His words die off as he tugs on Milo. (Str Check of 2, LOL, Fluet, I really didn't want to copy you)
K'Nara d20+9=26 d20+1=19 Saturday February 2nd, 2002 3:28:07 PM
K'Nara saw the scaly bulk begin to fall onto her and instinctively dove to the left, away from the beast...it wasn't enough to avoid being struck, but at least it was merely a glancing blow rather than being crushed under the full weight of it. (OOC: made the Reflex Save with a 26.)
"Get him out!!!" ordered the leader of the Talons as she staggered to her feet. "Get Bertram outta there NOW!!!" She matched her actions to her words by working with Fluet to try to locate and free the doughty dwarven cleric. (OOC: Strength check of 19, if that's what it takes to free Bertram.)
Figment Saturday February 2nd, 2002 4:52:41 PM
Knowing he can't do a lot to help right now, the mage moves over the beast and into the lair to make sure there are no other nasties around.
Ingrge d20+5=15 Sunday February 3rd, 2002 2:37:53 PM
Not really aware that the fight was ending abruptly, Ingrge barely manages to avoid being totally crushed by the falling beast. For about one moment, Ingrge stuggles to free himself from under the beast and then lies still and unmoving.
Brother Bertram d20+6=25 d10+6=11 Sunday February 3rd, 2002 2:58:30 PM
Bertram feels his awareness slipping away and tries desparately to cut through the slimy muscle tissue to the air outside. Blessed air! How he prayed to feel it in his lungs one last time.....Bertram yelps and is brought back to consciousness sharply as a wicked blade pokes through the creature's throat, nearly piercing him in the process.
Olana d8+1=9 d20+3=18 Monday February 4th, 2002 12:05:07 AM
Olana runs determindly toward the carcass, and as the others hack away to try and free Bertram and Milo from it's maw, she crouches alongside the fallen Ingrge. Quickly, she attempts to pull him well away and pours a cure light wounds potion down his throat. ((Woah - 9hps)) ((STR DC 18 ))
Milo d20+4=6 Monday February 4th, 2002 9:45:41 AM
Milo lay there, pinned underneath the creature, "By sweet Alemi... someone help Bertram first... geez louize... this thing stinks...ugh." The halfling tries to wriggle out from undger the creature with Lian's help...
Dm Kent 3d8(6+2+8)+5=21 2d8(6+6)+5=17 Monday February 4th, 2002 8:05:40 PM
With some effort, Bertram is finally dragged out of the beast just as he loses conciousness. Milo, K'Nara and Ingrge are dragged free. The Talons, beat up but alive, take refuge in the cave after it is examined and found to be no longer inhabited. A large mass of bones and tree limbs and leaves is found near the rear of the cave which obviously served as the beast's bed.
Ingrge Monday February 4th, 2002 8:06:33 PM
Ingrge sputters a bit after being fed a potion and is able to move only enough to get in to his pack and line up several other potions beside him which he opens and downs 2 (sure serious and cure moderate. There are two other potions next to him as he gets up. "Any one else need to use one or both of these?"
Lian (down 18 HP) d20+10=21 Tuesday February 5th, 2002 12:29:35 AM
A grimaced grin appears on Lians face, "Call me greedy, but I am beginning to think that I need to be paid hazard pay for all this, how is Bertram?"
Lian begins to meditate, unconcerned for his own gaping and gushing wounds. The look of pain leaves his face and is replaced with look of contentment.
OOC: Lian will be very aware of his surrounds while he 'meditates' (not resting, just relaxing), Listening to everything that goes on around him in the cave, eyes shut. Listen check of 21.
Flueterflam Tuesday February 5th, 2002 1:50:37 AM
The bard checks for a pulse from the dwarf. Assuming all is well, Fluet asks, "Anyone need any help?" If no one answers, he promptly lays down and falls into a light slumber.
K'Nara Tuesday February 5th, 2002 7:01:26 AM
"Whatever potions we have should go to healing up Milo and Bertram--they can then cast spells on whomever needs it." K'Nara pointed out, digging out her own cure potions and offering them to whomever needed them.
(OOC: K'Nara has two CLW potions, one CSW potion and one CMW potion...she's also down about two-thirds of her hit points. Whomever may be taking K'Nara up on the use of her potions must post which potion(s) they're using.)
Figment d20+6=25 Tuesday February 5th, 2002 8:50:13 AM
The mage smiles in amazement as the Talons escaped the ill-fought battle unscathed. Biting back some rash criticism, he decides to instead focus on the moment and make sure the area is secured and the group healed before any additional encounters occur - there will be plenty of time for arguing later. He pulls out the potions recently garnered from the HOL priests. "I have the 4 cure serious wounds potions here from our exploits against the priests of Caeroldra. I was hit by one of those lightning bolts but I can survive while the priests rememorize healing spells if necessary. In fact, I'd say that would be a better idea to preserve our potions.". Once the potions are pulled out, the mage detects magic and scans the cavern, deducing that the thing was probably intelligent. He also detects magic on the creature and tries to determine what exactly it is - or what creature it is a corruption of (INT DC 25!).
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 5th, 2002 10:01:50 AM
Bertram groans and slowly opens his eyes. As he looks about groggily he looks at his saliva-coated body and groans out. "By the gods I need a bath!" He then falls into a deep slumber.
Olana (down to 4 out of 49 hps) Tuesday February 5th, 2002 1:53:24 PM
Olana moves about the cavern, helping bind wounds which hopefully will aid the restorative effects of the potions.
She is very upset, and angry at herself. This was all her fault that the fight ended so disasterously. If she hadn't run inside.... It had been a stupid, emotional reaction.
And poor Bertram, swallowed by the thing!
In all honesty, she just wants to go into a corner and cry. Does she spot a look of reproach in Figment's eyes, despite his smile? If she does, she fires a look straight back at him, even though he is undeserving of it. Don't even think about it, her blue eyes warn him. ((Rummaging around with pieces of paper - 3 Cure Lights, hoping I can find notes about more))
Milo d8+1=6 Tuesday February 5th, 2002 8:24:58 PM
Dusting himself off, Milo stands and looks around at his friends. Walking up to the snoozing Bertram, he lays a hand on his forehead gently, praying to Alemi. (Turn Shield of faith into cure light wounds for 6 hps of healing) Continuing to survey things, Milo sees Olana, very injured and still moving from friend to friend, checking wounds. 'She was rushing in after me.' Set in his resolve, the halfling moves over to her, "Olana, drink this, it'll make you feel better... its what you might call, a halfling curall. By the way, thanks for coming in to get me." Milo hands her an unstoppered flask, "Don't worry... it isn't alcohol. Alemi knows I could use a drink right about now."
DM Kent Tuesday February 5th, 2002 8:29:15 PM
After a day or so of healing and rest, the Talons are feeling more human, so to speak. After a bit of study, Figment decides that the beast is some form of a beast known similar to a Behir.
The Talons make their way back to Dunadori where they heal up rest and aid the villagers in the repair and fortification of their town.
(OOC. I need for you to make sure an list what potions people use so we can remove them from the PC sheets.)
The priests of The One have made great strides in setting up a temporary temple and have acquired a number of fervent followers. Several weeks pass and even the talons are getting a bit tired of things in Dunadori. Their orphans have all not only found homes but have found families that have accepted them as if they were their own children.
Just as the third week after the death of the Beast, Three messengers arrive at the town. All three are sporting different liveries, are bone tired and two of them ask specifically to speak with the adventuring group known as the Talons.
The first messenger it seems hails from The Floating city and is on a tour announcing the new and separate sovereignty of the Big Float. This announcement also makes null and void any and all trade agreements and treaties between the two entities as well as any between citizens of the two, now opposing sovereignties. This messenger also lets it be known that Marteus and Caerolda are definitely the newest godly couple on the block and that they have sworn to kill The One. The rumor is that he plans to raise someone to Godhood and have them take care of The One. In addition Marteus has mad it known that he has declared war on all of the older, Woldian gods and vows to kill and replace them all.
The second messenger appears to have come from Plateau City and bears news of the Ruling council and things that have gone on there. While he too mentions the split between Plateau city and The Floating City, this messenger doesn't seem to think it is really that big of a deal. The second piece of news comes as a bit of a shock. It seems that Lord Sturtevant, as well as another of the high council have been exposed as being Dragons, in disguise and have been sentenced to death. Of course that is if they can be apprehended. In addition the high council has had the dragon consortium disbanded. The last bit of news is probably the most alarming to you as a group. After telling you about the disbandment of the Dragon Consortium, the messenger then tells you that the former dragon adventuring group Known as the Gold Dragons, has been declared an enemy of the state and has a 100,000 gold piece reward on each of their heads, dead or alive Their whereabouts, at this time, are unknown, as they have been missing for several months.
The Third messenger is attired in the livery of Parnoth and nervously watches you as he tells you his messages. The first news the messenger gives you is that Priests of Marteaus have appeared and set up several temples within the city limits. They have been destroying buildings and killing citizens as well as sacrificing people in ceremonies in order to give their evil god, power. This started soon after Parnoth disappeared and has continued in Parnoth's absence. The second piece of information is that rumors have placed Parnoth, dozens of other dragons and an unknown adventuring group in the area for gathering and meeting. Supposedly there was a encounter between the Dark Lord's minions and Parnoth, and the unknown adventuring group had to rescue Parnoth from them. The last message he gives you he seems very uncomfortable about saying. "I was given this message in a dream the other night and don't know anything else about it but here it is."
"Talons, I have not forgotten you. Nor will I forget you. You should not forget about me either. A death is sworn and a debt is owed. Come to me and we shall talk. I have a job for you. Come, I await you."
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 5th, 2002 9:06:31 PM
Bertram ponders the messenger's words as he sips a drink and considers his future. Finally he turns to the others with a gleam in his eye, "We simply must go to Parnoth! Dont you see? Parnoth and other Dragonkind may be the only chance, the only beings powerful enough take out the Dark Lord! At last a chance to strike a blow against Marteaus for the death of Domi! I vow to see him fall, and to die defending this land and its peoples. Talons are you with me?"
Figment Tuesday February 5th, 2002 9:52:50 PM
Disappointed that the Talons turned up no treasure of any kind in the lair of the behir, the mage returns with the group and listens to the messages.
"Sounds to me like we need to go back to the Emerald City and eradicate the temples of Martaeus for sure. Also sounds like Parnoth wants to meet us - now THAT should be interesting since he intended to kill us even though he deceived us into thinking we'd be freed after doing his bidding. I suppose no less should be expected from an evil creature like him. Sure, Bertram. Let's go talk to the huge, ancient, evil green dragon who would like to kill us. Seems to me he would immediately see to the destruction of the Dark Lords temples himself - unless he is in league with him. I doubt that though if this rumor of all the dragons is true. We should at least go back and speak to the government there - unless Parnoth has already taken back over.".
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 5th, 2002 10:24:36 PM
"Well in all fairness, Friend Figment, He only wants to kill the rest of you..." Bertram can't help but break into a grin.
Lian Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:22:08 AM
"Yes Bertram, are WE not lucky?!" Lian grins at Bertram's statement to Figment. "I think you're right to want to go kill Marteaus and avenge Domi. However, to deal with an evil Dragon is suicide indeed. And what of these missing Gold Dragons, your friends K'nara? Call me skeptical but they are missing and there is an unknown group of adventurers collaberating with Dragons, how well do you KNOW the Dragons K'nara? Could they be collaborators?"
Lian steps just out of arm's length from K'nara not knowing the response she might give. "Do not take this statement wrong, please," he adds as he retreats with his words.
"Ingrge, is Parnoth the type to hold a grudge?" Lian slyly tries to change the subject away from the Gold Dragons.
Lian Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:27:43 AM
...continuing with Ingrge.
"...because if he does hold a grudge for a long time, and he does want all but Bertram and myself dead, would he also kill us because we merely travel with YOU?" Lian nervously awaits the answer he already figures will be a resounding "YES".
Milo Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:52:32 AM
"I'll field that one Ingrge," Milo announces a little too cheerfully. Looking at Lian, without any sense of decorum the halfling responds, "YUP! Join the club... but don't worry... for a dragon, Parnoth isn't terribly bright." Milo's smile nearly consumes his entire face. "Anyhow, what is all this talk of K'nara's friends being evil... bah... if they're K'nara's friends that is good enough for me. I'll bet they're just getting a bum rap. Heck, I've been in that situation," Milo begins ticking off his fingers, and then quickly folds his hands behind his back, "...well, a number of times. But folks had it all wrong. I think the important thing is that we don't jump to any conclusions. Like... are we sure that last message is from the big green meanie... or maybe it's from that druid fella."
Lian Wednesday February 6th, 2002 2:06:06 AM
"Milo, I am not JUMPING to any conclusion, I have just considered one option my friend, it is not entirely impossible, is it?"
Lian grins right back at Milo.
K'Nara Wednesday February 6th, 2002 7:16:05 AM
K'Nara got up every morning--well before sunrise--and diligently followed the routine set for her by her master, Greymalkin of the Gold Dragons. By the time dawn cracked, the tall redhead was panting and ready for a bath and some breakfast...and some peace of mind.
She didn't tell the others, but for the last almost month, Greymalkin had broken off contact with her over the magic silver earpiece that he'd given her those many months ago when he'd first met and, of course, easily bested her in battle.
His last message had been brief but heartfelt: it was too dangerous for the Talons to be associated with the Gold Dragons, for there was a deeply-entrenched plot afoot to discredit the Gold Dragons. More information than this, the Maulk felt, would put the Talons in peril from more than just Parnoth. He wished her and the party well...and the earpiece had been silent ever since, in spite of her single attempt every morning afterwards to get him to respond.
The messengers confirmed Greymalkin's news: such a large reward would have made even those sympathetic to the Talons and the Tine cause think seriously about trying to capture the Talons in an effort to claim that they were "dragon friends" and worth the coin offered.
"Only 100,000 gold?" K'Nara quipped out loud. "Valdor must be losing his touch." The human bladesinger's accompanying smile was a bit sad. Then she turned to face the rest of the party.
"Parnoth is a user first, Lian," the woman warrior said firmly, "As long as the Talons can be used by him in any way, he will tolerate us. The second he perceives any of us to be of no more use--THAT is when he tries to get rid of us." Now K'Nara's smile was genuine--and not at all nice.
"Note that I said 'tries', however--for it would take better than the Green One to rid the Kingdom of us Talons." The leader of the party nodded then. "All right--we've made sure those orphans are taken care of, and we've helped those repentant clerics to start their lives of reparation--let's go help out Emerald City...again!"
Figment d20+6=23 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 11:55:48 AM
The mage ponders why a large group of dragons would be meeting in the Emerald City. He thumbs through his memory of history to determine if he can figure it out (DC 23,33,33,33).
After a time of thinking the mage responds to the others. "I do not have much information on this subject. But in my studies of arcana, spellcraft, nobility and royalty, and my general studies, there are referrences to times of old when dragons would come together in some sort of alliance to thwart a common foe. This has happened so rarely over time that little is known of them - dragons are solitary creatures by nature, you know. In fact these accounts may be nothing more than legend or faerie tales... Perhaps, if this is really what is going on, they believe the threat of Martaeus, A'Tath - this self-proclaimed half-dragon/prophet, or both, is great enough to convene. And if there is an adventuring group involved, I'd say it is probably the Gold Dragons. Who else could it be? No other group can match their power and would even stand a chance of being recognized at all by that many dragons as significant. One thing is certain though. With the Gold Dragons supporting us - which they said they would - I'd rather be standing next to Valdor the Dragonslayer when I talk to Parnoth than alone. The time to be in Emerald City is now. And I think we will have the full support of the populace as we erradicate the temples of Martaeus. Tell me Bertram, can you and Milo defile the temples once we rid them of their evil inhabitants? And K'Nara, perhaps you could contact Greymaulkin and tell him we are coming and that Parnoth wants us to come to him. If we are threatened with death by him perhaps if we tell him that we've informed the Golds of our visit will stay his hand."
Flueterflam Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:34:16 PM
At the mention of the druid, Fluet suddenly perks up and into the conversation. "Oh, you mean Mohannin? Yes, I will see if I can speak with him. He may not be the one speaking to us, but...." he pauses for a long moment to consider the situation, "perhaps he can help us."
After looking at each in the group, the bard disappears out into a secluded section of forest outside of the town's thoroughfaire. He sits down against the stump of a tree and closes his eyes. For a few minutes, Fluet takes slow deep breaths to calm his body and his mind. All thoughts slowly leave his mind as he focuses on a distant light.
Flueterflam slowly manipulates that light into a warm green glow. Through his thoughts, he whispers, "Mohannin, please come to me"
Figment Wednesday February 6th, 2002 2:03:22 PM
Looking to Milo, the mage says "The messenger is dressed in Parnoth's green. I also don't remember anything regarding a debt we owe the druid - or any threat of death unless we tried to burn down his forest or something. I'd say chances are Parnoth sent the message - but help from Mohannin would be most appreciated. I wonder what he thinks of our killing of the behir?".
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 6th, 2002 3:49:53 PM
Bertram snorts at the question. "As far as I am concerned they are ALREADY defiled Friend. But yes I percieve what you mean, and I am sure we could do something to at least weaken the Dark Lord's hold of those temples."
Olana Wednesday February 6th, 2002 6:53:21 PM
"Well I won't believe anything bad about the Gold Dragons," asserts the elf, "they've always been good to us. I prefer to take people as I find them. Maybe we can find out for ourselves what's been happening."
News of what has been going on elsewhere doesn't surprise her in the least, having figured that the entire world was going crazy months ago.
"I wonder how minions of the Dark Lord managed to get a hold of Parnoth?" she asks. "Obviously he's not invincible, is he."
She prepares to leave along with everyone else.
Meeting within meetings, or life is such a Drag....on
Ingrge Wednesday February 6th, 2002 7:42:41 PM
Even though Dunadori is a very rural village, Ingrge is feeling very antsy and is ready to move on. In a break from what one would consider normal, Ingrge has spent most of his time in the village with the former orphans, talking with them, doing small magics for them and generally just bathing in their boundless joy and energy.
The day the messengers arrived, Ingrge woke with a splitting headache, just knowing that something bad was going to happen. That day he avoided the children even though they repeatedly called out to him trying to cajole him to come and join them for their daily fun.
Quiet as the messengers speak their pieces, Ingrge all but growls when the charges against the Gold Dragons are read. As Parnoth's message is read, he does growl a bit and then it rolls in to a loud rolling belly laugh as Lian asks his question. Unable to recover in time to answer him, he just nods as Milo takes the lead in answering.
During the decision making Ingrge again is mostly silent thinking about their upcoming visit with Parnoth.
DM kent Wednesday February 6th, 2002 7:56:27 PM
Fluet gets a very broken connection with the druid almost as if something is interfering or blocking any true communication, but you kind of get a sense of injury, fogginess and aid needed.
The Talons make their goodbyes and leave the town of Dunadori behind heading toward Emerald City. Along the way they come across several small roadside shrines to Marteus, all of which have small stone offering bowls that are full of what appear to be old bloody hearts. They make their way to the city with little or no trouble and are not even stopped or questioned at the city gates. The atmosphere in the city, if it is possible, seems even more fearful and depressing than ever. There are city guards on every street corner but even they are not out alone, and they look none to comfortable themselves. You have passed several smaller temples to Marteus on your way to the palace, but you have heard things about a larger, main temple deeper in the city.
You finally make your way to the palace and even there you are not stopped or questioned. As you make your way in to the throne room, you notice that little has changed since the last time you were there, including that there is no one home. You do see however, that there is a glass orb sitting on the throne.
Flueterflam Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:21:30 PM
After his attempt to contact Mohannin, Fluet pulls K'Nara aside to speak before leaving Dunadori. "Please be careful, we are not safe. Not only the news from the messengers, but other things are happening. I have found that we are needed somewhere, but sadly my vision was neither strong enough, nor complete enough to show me where. I just want you to know this, because it does not feel right. It seems as though a great presence is trying very hard to impede us from our journey." For the rest of the journey towards the Emerald City, Fluet is quiet and seems disturbed by something.
"Be wary all. Things appear very stretched and bloodied. I speak not of just our path to the city," the bard speaks cryptically.
Spying the orb, Fluet unsheathes his sword, not trusting the situation. A quiet groan escapes his through as he waits for something to jump out from nowhere within the temple.
Olana Wednesday February 6th, 2002 10:49:34 PM
All the shrines and temples to Marteus left Olana feeling more than a little spooked. But it was stranger still walking through the City so boldly and not being hailed and arrested.
"Where's Mop, I wonder?" she muses aloud as they enter the dragon's lair. She keeps a lookout, and her sword drawn, letting Ingrge and Figment sort out the puzzle of the orb.
Milo Thursday February 7th, 2002 2:38:26 AM
Milo is strangely silent during the entire trip back to Emerald City. Oddly enough his countenance is passive, though he seems to be keeping a tally of something. From time to time he stops at a shrine to examine its contents more closely. When the group arrives in Parnoth's throne room, Milo hangs back.
Lian d20+6=23 d20+10=11 Thursday February 7th, 2002 4:17:35 AM
En route to the Emerald City, Lian makes mention to K'nara that he is very nervous about going into the City. As he travels, he bounces between Bertram and Milo in general conversation to try to take his mind off the Gold Dragons, Parnoth and the Dark One. Most of all, he misses his simple life with Nel'dorath the Master, The Way of the Hand and his family. "I miss fathers wine and the vineyard." Lian kept saying periodically through out the journey back to the Emerald City.
"Bertram, all this weighs heavy on me. We have the world on our shoulders, it seems, and I have a bad feeling about this trip."
"Maybe the Gold Dragons can replace LUCIA, or at least fix her K'nara."
OOC: Made voluntary Spot (23) and Listen (11) during the the trip to the Emerald City.
K'Nara Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:23:53 AM
K'Nara's sharp hazel eyes glanced piercingly around the throne room. Indeed, Olana seemed to be correct--Mop didn't seem to be in evidence.
And then there was that orb on the throne.
"Well--do NOT touch the damn globe..." she warned the others, "...remember how we almost lost Milo to that booby-trapped scepter!" K'Nara gestured to the crystal and nodded Figment's way.
"Think you can divine whether this little trinket is likewise boobytrapped, Figment?" the leader of the Talons asked. If he determined that it did not appear to be so, K'Nara intended to pick it up and examine it herself--she knew she stood a better chance than Milo at surviving another lightning charge.
Brother Bertram Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:39:01 AM
"Ahh Lian how can you say that? We have found a purpose to all this madness! We have an opportunity to make a difference! Now having said that I am not going to turn my back on anyone anytime soon.' Bertram chuckles, still in a grand mood from his time with the children.
Figment d20+16=31 Thursday February 7th, 2002 10:38:48 AM
As the Talons travel toward the Emerald City and happen across these shrines of evil. The mage detroys them. If they are too large to tear down he blasts them with lightning bolts to rip them apart. He leaves not one stone standing on another as he goes. "I may not be able to prevent the deaths of these poor soulds, but I most certainly can stop their desecration! At least now these yahoos will be rebuilding shrines instead of executing people to put on their existing ones.".
The enrages caster makes sure he enters the city with his full reportiore of spells. His blood boils as he passes the evil shrines in the city, but he decides it more expedient to see Parnoth first. It is clear he is not in control and so apparently needs help. This meeting may bode well for the Talons after all...
He detects magic on the orb and makes sure it is not trapped. If it is a crystal ball as he thinks it is (Arcana DC 31) - and there are no traps - he picks it up and looks into it.
Ingrge d20+3=18 d20+12=28 Thursday February 7th, 2002 4:54:01 PM
Extremely quiet on the trip to the city, Ingrge too is visibly upset at the site of the roadside shrines and assists Figment with their total destruction as they go along. Joining Figment along side the throne to examine the orb, Ingrge adds his assent to Figment's that he doesn't think there is a trap. After further looking at the orb, Ingrge also agrees with his fellow mage that it seems to be some sort of crystal ball or communication device. (knowlegde Arcana). As Figment reaches for it though Ingrge shrugs and then speaks. "Friend, Scrying magics are one of my primary specialties perhaps I might more completely use this to our advantage."
DM kent Thursday February 7th, 2002 5:01:50 PM
As you all make your way to the City Ingrge and Figment along with anyone else who joins them destroy 7 roadside shrines to Marteus. Milo gets a basic heart count of 7 per shrine and 7 shrines passed and destroyed along the way.
The Talons, minus Milo move their way to around the throne as Ingrge and Figment both reach toward it. As soon as Ingrge's finger tips touch the orb it suddenly raises up in to the air, turns emerald green and then opens up as if it were an eye, moments later, Parnoth's voice can be heard in each of their minds.
"I have a proposition for you, "Talons." Parnoth chuckles, "I find this quite ironic, that we now seem to be fighting for some of the same things and against the same foe. As you can tell I am away from the city and not able to currently properly take care of things there. What I need for you to do is to infiltrate Marteus's main temple and rescue one or possibly two of the prisoners that you will find there. Now before you ask, I cannot tell you anything about them as that information might actually endanger them. Suffice to say that you will know whom it is that you are to rescue, when you find them." Behind the throne you will find 4 cure serious wound potions. Take them and use them as necessary. Good Luck."
As he finishes speaking the globe flashes brightly and then shatters into dust.
Flueterflam Thursday February 7th, 2002 5:18:12 PM
The bard sheathes his sword after the request. He seems much less jumpy, realizing the orb truly would not spawn any meanies. "So I suppose we could guess all we want as to whom we will be saving....but I say we shouldn't. Let us just proceed with brevity and hope that we have surprise with us for this one."
Milo Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:45:21 PM
Milo speaks up, having some experience with infiltration, "I would recommend that we case the temple for an entire day and night before we attempt this. It would be good to see who comes in and out of there, and when they change guards, and when activity is the heaviest and lightest, before we go charging in to a hornet's nest." Milo wonders to himself why he didn't consider this with the creature.
Brother Bertram Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:54:10 PM
Bertram listens to the proposition eagerly, anxious to strike any blow against the Dark Lord. He is surprised to hear Milo's comment however. "Friend Milo-YOU who rushed into the Brehir Cave and nearly lost your life.....YOU suggest we proceed with Caution??" Bertram's eyes are twinkling as he asked belying his shocked manner.
Figment Thursday February 7th, 2002 11:19:58 PM
The mage defers to Ingrge as he offers to examine the orb. And he pauses a moment whenever Bertram ribs Milo. "I say this with only the best intentions for our survival. As our foes increase in power to match our own we MUST coordinate our attacks more effectively. The casters have spells that can improve the effectiveness of the fighters, we too have damage spells we can only cast before the fighters close. The fighters have ranged attacks as well as close quarters weapons. We need to plan my friends. We could have killed 3 of those behirs with our current skill with proper planning, but we barely survived one. I pray my words are taken in the light they are offered. I hold no ill feelings, I only desire not to needlessly die - or watch a friend die.".
After a pause he also offers "I think Milo's plan is a good one. We can also use stealth to get in. Invisibility and such. I would prefer an evening to redo my spells for such a task, but I am prepared now if the need arises.".
Lian Friday February 8th, 2002 12:03:50 AM
Also surprised at Milos suggestion of caution, Lian just shakes his head; "Ooh Milo!"
"Can I help with the infiltration? I want to get inside, become one of them. That sounds safe enough, no dragons or behirs, yeah sound safe alright. Can I help Milo?"
Olana Friday February 8th, 2002 2:56:44 AM
Olana nods as the plan is discussed, Figment being quite right of course, not wanting a repeat performance of what happened back at the cave a few weeks ago. That was hard lesson to learn.
"I hope it's not Mop who he wants us to rescue," she adds to the conversation. "I don't want to sound mean, but you know that man really gets on my nerves."
K'Nara Friday February 8th, 2002 7:34:13 AM
"Damned overgrown lizard sure knows how to pick and choose his moments!" grumbled K'Nara. Then she huffed a sharp breath. "I've been to Izen, so I know what Marteaus will try to reduce the rest of the Wold to, should he get the chance. Let's grab those potions and get over to our friends, the Tines...maybe they can help us with some information on the place we have to go to."
Lian d20+2=4 Friday February 8th, 2002 7:41:15 AM
"These... Tines, have I met them?"
OOC:I really don't remember the Tines, Int check 4. :)
Figment Friday February 8th, 2002 11:19:00 AM
The mage moves around to the potions (assuming his detect magic is still active) and makes sure THEY are not trapped before picking them up. Once done, he says "That sounds like a good idea. Let's go see our friends, perhaps Lorna will be about.".
DM Kent d20+3=19 d20+3=7 d20+3=7 d20+3=20 Friday February 8th, 2002 6:37:59 PM
There are no traps around the potions and they really are the curatives that Parnoth said they were.
The Talons make their way to their friendly neighborhood "Tine" hangout, only to find that it is no longer in existence, In fact the only things remaining are the brick steps that led out of both doors and the masonry fireplace and chimney the Talons had so often warmed themselves in front of. Their questions about the "Tines" meet with very cold stares and averted looks and sudden hurried exits. They do however, find an inn that has room for them that they can use as a base of operations, the price of the room and common board however is quiet exorbinant, even for Emerald City at 8 gold per person per night.
Over the next two days and night, the Talons locate the main temple and do a little recon work.
You find that the temple, apparently has only one entrance and it seems to be always busy. The busiest times seem to be between midnight and the early morning. You have been able to count between 15 - 25 robed priests or guards enter and exit the temple. Any closer count is difficult due to the fact that they all appear to be identical. The lay people you have seen entering the temple have rarely entered of their own free will. Most have been bound and or hooded. Screams are heard coming from the temple at all hours.
Milo and Lian manage to with the use of a bit of invisibility and sneakiness manage to get inside the Temple to scout a bit and learn that there is a guard station, with 4 guards, halfway in to the foyer, that all entrants must check in with before proceeding. Milo manages to hear that each group that approaches the guard station, says something to the guards and then are allowed to pass. Lian from another perspective notices that as each group passes through the arched entry, to the deeper recesses of the temple, that they flash something over their head toward the arch.
(OOC> Ok the time you may post for now covers an evening, the entire next two days and nights. If changing spells, please send me your current memorized list. If trying anything more difficult than standard material please roll on DC 17. If necessary I can do an interim post over the weekend if there is something you specifically want to do.)
Milo d20+28=35 d20+24=43 Friday February 8th, 2002 7:22:26 PM
After receiving a package that he was waiting for, Milo is seen, oddly enough with a new pair of soft looking boots, as well as a cloak that seems to allow him to blend into the surroundings around him. He is moving around more quietly than ever these days. After his reconnasaince of the temple, Milo makes his way into the city looking for the temple of Alemi, and if it is gone, any remnants of the clergy. He keeps himself, more or less to the shadows. (OOC: Made hide and move silently checks over all for this little mission DC 35 and 43 respectively)
Brother Bertram Friday February 8th, 2002 9:05:46 PM
Bertram looks about for any dwarves which might be able to give him any information about the current situation. He also seems to delight in wearing his Domi Holy Symbol openly on his chest.
Flueterflam Friday February 8th, 2002 11:38:33 PM
The bard seems very interested during this slow period of time, with the actions of Milo and Lian. For the first night, it appears Fluet would like to ask either of the two something, but shies away. The next day, he finally gathers up the courage and confronts Milo. "I am curious if you'd help me sneak about, like you do so well. I don't want to get into any trouble, but maybe I can help a little."
It is clear that Flueterflam is somewhat afraid and embarassed asking. He doesn't appear to await a 'yes' answer, but looks hopeful still. A sudden idea pops in his head, and he leans over and whispers in the hafling's ear, "I've never actually tried to cast it, but I have learned how to make myself invisible." The bard smiles awkwardly for a moment, then looks as though he's ashamed he tried at all.
Figment Saturday February 9th, 2002 1:14:44 AM
The mage rememorizes spells based on what they've learned (Character sheet to follow). He seems highly motivated to destroy this place - and he intends to find a way. to the others he says "We need to time it so that the largest number of priests are out of the temple when we strike. Also, if one of you can get close enough, we can find out what exactly it is that those guys are saying to the guards and what they are flashing up to the arch. Also, we might try to quickly take out a group of the priests outside the temple somewhere and get their stuff - including whatever they are flahing to the arch. Divide and conquer.
Olana Saturday February 9th, 2002 1:17:53 AM
So where were the Tines, Olana wondered, not that it came as that much of a surprise to find them gone. If possible, she attempts to study the comings and goings at the Temple in finer detail - change of the guard, when exactly the priests seem to emerge, and hopefully where they go. Was there a pattern?
(Presuming that Milo and Lian have shared their info.) "I wonder what it is they use to get in?" she discusses with the others. "A spell, some kind of charm or icon? If it's some kid of artifact, maybe we could steal one."
Listening to Figment, it seems he's thinking the same. (We must have posted at the same time LOL.)
Figment Saturday February 9th, 2002 1:19:03 AM
In a moment he continues. "We could also try guerilla warfare. If we began taking out groups of priests and leaving evidence that it was maybe some of the Tines - who apparently have fled - or perhaps some followers of The One, we could vastly reduce their effectiveness before taking on the temple and at the same time allay their fears of a main attack. Make them think it is a fringe group somewhere looking for easy targets.".
Lian d20+6=24 d20+10=29 Saturday February 9th, 2002 5:36:07 AM
Lian will tell his friends what he has seen and whatever they want to know when they ask. The elven monk is also QUITE concerned and interested with what they might have been flashing (and saying, if anything) at the arch and what the guards are saying to one another. (Spot of 24 at the arch and Listen of 29 at the guards)
"Fluet my friend, I am not the one to ask about such things. Our friend Milo is the expert on things of this nature." Lian motions in the direction of the halfling.
"I am not really the one to set ambush, but I think it might be the quietest way in, ambush a small group and free them of thier robes and other items of religous significants. Open warfare is probably a bad, very bad, idea in the middle of town. Milo, you should go in and find out what they are doing to the people deep within, take Fluet with you, he maybe able to help with the guards or clerics with his powerful magics. I will stay close. This whole affair needs to be done with some sort of...[PAUSE]" Lian thinks of a proper way to say, "...thought."
"We should also find out if any of the Tines people are still in the city or if they became victums of that evil temple."
And at some point on one of the nights while they are out spying, Lian will make some sort of cryptic remark about Milo's new gear being elven make. ;) "Milo, where can I get one of those?"
Any real down-time, Lian will spend it practicing his Kahta and excercising, occationally letting out a shout, 'kai'. He may also at one point ask K'nara if she would like to spar hand to hand with him, or anyone who will.
OOC: Lian will spend 16 of his own Gold on his room and 10gp if he can find a bottle of fine elven (or the like) wine.
Milo Saturday February 9th, 2002 12:03:24 PM
Milo looks skeptically at Fleuterflam for a moment then replies, "I'd be happy to work with you on learning how to become less conspicuous when the situation calls for it, but I don't think that practicing in the Temple of Marteaus is such a good idea." Milo looks rather critically at Lian for suggesting such a thing. "However, if you want to do some skulking about town, I think it's a great idea for you to learn some of those skills Fluet. I'd be happy to teach you."
Flueterflam Sunday February 10th, 2002 12:35:33 AM
While listening to Lian talks, the bard becomes more cheerful. He appears relieved that the others didn't find his request unreasonable. Fluet also appears less embarrassed, seeing that he wasn't mocked.
With regards to Milo's comment, Fluet hesitantly leans over and whispers, "I have never really told anyone this, but I can cast invisibility. But I've always been afraid to. I know all these spells...you know from travelling around before I met everyone...but I'm always afraid I'll make a horrible show of it and you will all hate me for it." He takes a long deep breath and continues, "Well, I've also done my fair share of sneaking, but I can't compare with you. That's why I never said anything about it before. I just feel so pathetic compared to you. I just wanted you to know. Please don't tell the others."
Lian Sunday February 10th, 2002 2:36:54 AM
"Bertram, what are you going to be doing these next few days?"
Brother Bertram Sunday February 10th, 2002 11:25:06 PM
Bertram scratches his beard at the question. "Well mainly I am trying to find any dwarven brethren with any information on this temple. "My other pet project is a bit different." Bertram grins and points to his Holy Symbol of Domi..."Bait"
Lian Monday February 11th, 2002 1:01:13 AM
Lian stratches his head, "Bait?"
K'Nara Monday February 11th, 2002 6:20:11 AM
"We need to try to sneak in, I guess," the leader of the Talons agreed with Olana's initial idea of waylaying a group of Marteaus clerics and using their robes to gain entry to the temple. "Two or three of us could be 'clerics', another couple can be some 'hired muscle', and the rest of us could be...ahhhh...'guests of the temple'..." The redhead snorted her disbelief of that last term.
"Let's go find some handy clerics we can...borrow the robes and stuff from, shall we..?"
Figment Monday February 11th, 2002 12:33:15 PM
"I will attempt to not cast any spells until we go intothe temple. A nicely placed sleep spell might make quick work of a small group, if they are novices.". The mage leaves with the others to locate a group.
DM kent Monday February 11th, 2002 7:23:53 PM
Lian and Milo on one of their forays to the temple, manage to overhear what is being said to the guards at the desk, and it chills them to the bone each time they think of having to say it themselves. What they heard the different groups say to the guards is,
"The Heart of the True Woldian God is Black and will soon eclipse the Light."
They were however, unable to get a good enough look at what it is that is flashed toward the cieling as they go under the arch. The only thing they can really tell is that it fits fairly easily in to a lrage hand, and that all of the users take it from somewhere inside their robes in order to use it.
After the Talons agree on the plan to capture several priests and use their robes to gain entry they scout out a likely group and set up some sort of ambush. With Figment and Ingrge focussing their power on quick and quiet subdual and the others following up to finish the job, the priests didn't stand a chance.
(Let me know if you kill them while they are unconcious or leave themn alive. If alive, let me know what you do with them.)
On the priests (I will assume you search them.), you find their robes and other clothes of course, a total of 15 gold, three very nasty looking daggers, (Milo and Bertram can feel the evil radiating off them.), three holy symbols to Marteus (roughly hand sized), three, funny looking, hand-sized glass, flat discs, and three, four-inch round, metallic looking, balls. All of the items in the last three groups, as well as the daggers radiate magic.
(OCC. OK, I need your posts to focus on what you are and how you are going to do you infiltration, who is playing what roles etc.)
Olana Monday February 11th, 2002 8:04:58 PM
Tying and gagging the priests, Olana whispers - "Now what?" She is clearly uneasy about killing them in cold blood, but will do it if leaving them alive would put the group in obvious jeopardy.
"Do you think it's the discs that they use to get in?" She looks to see if there's enough disguises for everyone. "Whoever is up front will need to be convincing and priestlike I should think," she ponders. "And thats not me," she adds with a sheepish grin while trying on some priest gear.
Lian Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:09:14 AM
OOC: Did the priests mainly consist of humans, and what races were the 'guests'.
"K'nara should pose as a cleric, in fact, I think the humans should pose as clerics. Bertram and Ingrge could be the hired muscle. I will gladly pose as a beaten guest. I know little of religion and magic, I would be the perfect... slave?! Someone should beat me, make it authentic. When we get inside the temple, we can borrow more trinkets from the clerics."
"I think we should kill the priests, they may wake while we are inside, then give us away. They ARE evil, or at least misguided. It is up to K'nara though. Do not think ill of me for the suggestion, please. The balance of the Wold is tilting and becoming unstable, and Marteus is the reason. 'The True God has a Black Heart' that can not be good."
Lian relaxes a bit when he realizes what he has said and waits for a response, his expression is ambivalent... or confused.
Milo Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:44:40 AM
Milo thinks for a moment and then looking up at Olana with a serious look on his face, "I'll just check those ropes," crouching behind each one of the unconscious priests, Milo seems to be praying in a whisper as he fiddles with something behind each of Marteaus' priest's backs, and then moves to the next, until he has attended to each priest.
Rejoining the group, Milo speaks in hushed tones, "Every priest that I saw walk in there was at least average height for a human. Which means everyone here should be able to pass for a priest in the dark... that is... except me and Bertram. I say that Bertram and I enter, walking right behind two of you, invisibly, and the rest of you pose as clerics. If we are cautious, we shouldn't alert any attention. Another option is that someone use magic to make Bertram taller, and I'll walk underneath someone's robes..." Then with a grin... "I choose Olana." Milo flushes red in the dark.
Lian Tuesday February 12th, 2002 3:42:00 AM
"I agree with your suggestion Milo. I am rather tall for an elf, I could look human in the dark."
Lian looks at one of the daggers among the religous paraphonalia and grimaces.
"Oh, that is truly ugly! May I hold onto one of those?" He pauses. "I do not think I can pull off the priest this priest thing."
K'Nara Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:08:23 AM
"Blindfold them as well." K'Nara ordered as the evil clerics were secured. "However, we won't kill them now that we've captured them. Wouldn't be right." She thought for a moment.
"Fluet, Olana and myself would best pose as the priests." she reasoned out loud. "I'd have Figment and Lian pose as 'unconscious' guests, with Ingrge and Bertram carrying them along. Milo can be a...slightly damaged, but nonetheless protesting guest that Olana and me can be holding between us--that will leave our resident bard to give the performance of a lifetime before a captive audience--" K'Nara's hazel eyes twinkled at Fluet as she added in a voice that mixed in some seriousness with the humor: "--just so long as it doesn't become a captor audience, though."
"We should also dress in the stuff that the clerics had." the human bladesinger pointed out. "So you'll have to wait until later to claim any of the daggers, Lian."
Figment Tuesday February 12th, 2002 11:11:59 AM
The mage frowns and then gapes at K'Nara's pronouncement, completely disagreeing. Knowing her disposition, he decides to act instead of talk. He grimly pulls out his dagger and cuts their miserable throats without hesitation.
Once done, he looks back defiantly. "It wouldn't be right to have let them keep breathing. These evil vermin are attempting to destroy us and our society - and have no doubt they murdered many in their zeal. I wonder where the Tines are, or where Lorna is? Remember the 49 hearts in the shrines! These are creatures of evil and we must destroy them. We are agents of the state and sworn to protect it. It is our obligation to kill them. We were going to kill them in the temple. The only reason I can see to have kept them alive would be to subject them to public, painful torture. And be sure of one thing. I will kill ANY of these creatures we come across if I can. They are sub-human and have willingly and knowingly given up any rights they might have had. This is war and as such, I will wage it as I can. I'm sorry if you do not feel the same way. We CANNOT fail, and our risk of failure increases if we do not kill." The mage appears very defiant and without remorse of any kind.
Olana Tuesday February 12th, 2002 4:52:46 PM
The elf is busy listening to what Lian and K'Nara have to say, and is therefore oblivious to what Milo is doing. She sticks her head through one of the robes, and is just about to give the halfling a humorous retort when Figment appears to turn into the Grim Reaper, right before her very eyes and stops dead the smile that was beginning to appear on her face. She can't say anything, of course. It was pure hypocrisy to object when it was like he said - they'd probably have to kill once they got into the temple, too. And it wasn't like she hadn't seen it before. For a moment, she cannot move. Then, in an effort to break the ice in her heart, she walks over to Bertram. "How do I wear these?" she asks quietly, " As a cleric, how would I walk?" She seems rather sad, despite trying to tell herself that it didn't matter, it didn't matter.... Gods she was going to have to toughen up. Maybe if she was more like Ingrge....
Ingrge Tuesday February 12th, 2002 6:18:58 PM
"K'Nara, I would make one change ... only a few things with your plan. I have seen few dwarves openly wearing the Symbol of Domi wandering the streets. I would suggest that Bertram be one of the 'invited guests' and that Olana and I once again don these," he suggests as he pulls out the two slave bands they had from before. "That will leave you, Fluet, and one other to dress as the clerics. Lian can be another of the guests and Milo can use his ring, and Figment can drink this potion and follow along invisible. Now the question remains... as to which of these is the object they are flashing."
Flueterflam d20+11=30 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 7:22:17 PM
Fluet nods to K'Nara. "I suppose I can pull everything together for ya." The bard prepares himself in one of the cleric's outfits. He shifts the outfit here and there, and finally appears satisfied that it is resting properly upon his person. (ooc: Disguise DC 30) "So how do I look?"
After a brief check from how the others find his costume, Fluet walks up right next to K'Nara. He throws his arm around her shoulders and blurts, "You are soooooooo going to owe me after this one." With a small chuckle, he makes one last stop before the group decides how to proceed.
Flueterflam takes a stride over to Figment and places his hand softly on the mage's shoulder. "I understand you. Please do me a favor though...Be careful how you treat your aggression. Just remember that hatred is blind, no matter how valiant your reasoning. I would want you to fireball my head off at a time of need, you hear?" He winks at Fig, and begins to develop some type of excuse with the most intricate details he can muster.
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:04:41 PM
Bertram smiles at Ingrge's suggestion. "I heartily agree. I just hope that you will bring my axe along as 'evidence'."
DM Kent d20=19 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:15:56 PM
(OOC: Please let me know who is disguised how and how you are going to proceed.)
Lian and Milo saw that the priests all had the same sort of body type and were of the size of medium humans. As are the three you take out. The 'guests' have been of all races and sexes, though you have seen no sign of any dwarves.
Milo checks over Olanna's rope work and makes a few adjustments.
As Figment leans over to cut the first one's throat, he notices a pool of blood forming on the ground at his intended victim's back.
The Talons, adorned as priests, guests and slaves, make their way toward the temple. As they go along they notice that no one looks at them at all and many cross the street to avoid them altogether. They soon find themselves face to face with the Temple's entrance. There are few people around although another group of priests and guests have just arrived before you and are just entering the doors.
Lian d20+10=27 d20+6=17 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 1:59:22 AM
Lian lays a hand on Figments shoulder, "Perhaps it may have been better to listen to K'nara, she is our leader." Lians eyebrow raises, then he smirks a bit out of sight of K'nara. Then he turns to her. "K'nara, I was not 'claiming' the dagger, merely willing to hang onto it."
Lian talks with Milo about how he needs to act inside the temple. When we get there he plans to act exactly how Milo tells him too.
Lian pays very close attention to the group in front of the Talons at the temple. (Listen Check 27 and Spot Check 17.)
K'Nara d20+4=17 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:27:04 AM
K'Nara had the robe over her head and was floundering around in it, and so missed Figment's drastic actions until it was too late to stop him. For a moment--an intense moment that doubtless felt longer than it truly was--K'Nara's hazel eyes were ablaze with anger...and extreme disappointment.
"We will speak of this later, mage." was all the fighter said, her voice cold. Then she turned away to listen to Ingrge's words, considering them and then nodding agreement.
"Your words make sense." the redhead agreed. "Very well--since Fluet, Figment and myself are humans, we shall pose as the clerics, with you and Olana wearing the slave bands and accompanying Lian and Brother Bertram as 'guests'. Milo can use his ring--along with the three of us 'clerics'--as a means to sneak in with us. As for what to flash up at the ceiling at the proper spot--" K'Nara's glance was directed at Figment, though the man gets the definite impression that she is looking more through him than directly at him. "We will have to either catch up to another group of clerics just before they go past that spot--and hopefully see for ourselves what they're flashing--or we'll have to hope our learned mage can use his mighty intellect well and deduce which of these items to use."
K'Nara rolled her eyes at Fluet's prediction and then lets Lian know that she, herself, wasn't chastising the monk in any way--it was just that he'd have to wait until after the Talons didn't need to keep up the charade before getting any of the daggers. As far as K'Nara was concerned, Lian could have all three of them.
Once the group reached the temple, the disguised bladesinger (OOC: made a Disguise skill check of 17) nodded at the group of other clerics.
"Hurry!" she whispered to her party. "If we follow along quickly enough, we are more likely to see which item they're flashing up to get inside..." K'Nara looked at Fluet and winked.
"It's showtime..!"
Milo Wednesday February 13th, 2002 10:05:51 AM
While getting ready to march off to the temple Milo answers Lian, "Don't ask me how to wear these things and act. Disguise and performance are Flueterflam's arena. That is where he is master... I'm sure he could give you some helpful pointers. Looks like I get to do what I always do... sneak along side ya'll." Milo grins, and as the groups moves out he activates his ring, becoming invisible, and stays somewhere in the middle of the group where he won't get stepped on.
Figment d20+16=35 d20+10=17 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 12:11:41 PM
The mage seems oblivious to K'Nara's coldness and nods at her pronouncement of discussing it later. Then he says with some alarm "They're already dead... I didn't kill them. They have a wound in their backs.". He looks around to determine what did - self inflicted or some external force.
Once that is done, he examines closely the items that they now have to choose from to flash at the arch to determine which one is most likely the right one. He draws on his arcane knowledge (DC 35) and his engineering knowledge (DC 17) for clues. He tests the spheres for wieght and tries to determine what he can about them (i.e. what are they, what might they do). "My initial conclusion in is that the flat glass would be the most likely item to flash. First, it is reflective, and second, it is flat. You would have been able to clearly see the 4" sphere in their hand if they had used it. Let me look at this and think a bit longer before we attempt this...". He continues a bit longer to mine information and then shares it with everyone. (i.e. to save time, Figment will tell the findings the DM reveals to all). Once done he asks two more questions. "Did ALL the priests who went through flash the arch or just one? If one, was he the first to enter, or the last?". And finally he says "If there was some specific 'way' these guys were flashing the symbol, I would suggest you allow myself to be the one to do it if it appeared and arcane trick. I would recommend Milo if it were simply a 'dexterity' thing - or Ingrge for arcana except they'll be posing as the prisoners.".
Once his questions are answered he dons the robe of the evil priest. He shudders as if all of a sudden a coldness ran down the length of him. He feels dirty, doing this. In a moment though he resolves in his mind that this act will make them pay in a way that is most pleasing to him - treachery repaid for treachery. He makes his headband reshape itself to match the head coverings of the evil priests (his headband of intellect can do this). Then he does something he finds most disturbing. He uses a cloth and picks up one of the nasty looking daggers and adorns it on himself, making sure that his bare skin does not contact it - and that he could cast or draw his own daggers easily enough. It is clear he is struggling greatly with this exercise. Once complete he says "I'm ready...".
Olana Wednesday February 13th, 2002 1:37:13 PM
The elf pulls off the robe she was trying on, and hands it to one of the others. "So, we're trying to keep Lian and Bertram under control, correct?" she asks, blinking her blue eyes.
She peers at the slave band for a moment then shrugs and tries to get a 'disinterested but don't give me any trouble'look on her face. Weapons she tries to hide wherever possible under her cloak. Then, she whispers to Lian and Bertram in all seriousness - "If I have to smack you, pretend it hurts really bad."
Figment, Cont. (Mage Armor, Cat's Grace) d4+1=4 d4+1=4 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 2:43:40 PM
He casts Stoneskin and Bull's Strength (+4) on K'Nara and Mage Armor and Cat's Grace (+4) on himself before they approach the temple as well. "Your strength and stoneskins will last 7 hours.".
Figment's AC is now 19 and Dex is now 21 (+5).
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 13th, 2002 4:32:55 PM
Bertram looks to Olana understandingly. "Tis alright Lass. Actually a priest of Domi would not go without a fight anyway, So why dont you get a good fist in right now to make it look real. We cant afford to make mistakes on this". Bertram turns his head and prepares for a quick right from Olana to finish his makeup.
Olana Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:04:28 PM
The elf scoops up some dirt and smears it on Bertram's face. 'There, you look a bit scuffed up now,' she says. 'I can always head butt you later in front of the crowds.' She follows this up with a cheerful smile, before lapsing into indifferent jailer mode again.
Dark Justice
Ingrge d4+1=3 d4+1=5 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:18:57 PM
As the party gets to the temple, Ingrge casually swings his staff and catches Bertram a glancing blow to the side of the head. "Masters said quiet cur." He follows this up with a slight jab to Lian's side and a warning glare at the young elf. "And if you're lucky, You might get to be a slave like us." Ingrge cast Bull's strength on himself (+3 strength 6 hours) and Cat's Grace on Olanna (+5 dex for 6 hours)
DM kent Wednesday February 13th, 2002 7:59:33 PM
Figment makes his investigations, and while he doesn't exactly know what either of the items actually does, he does know that the spheres have no seam and that their is now way they can be solid. As for the disks, they appear to be glass, but seem like they are as durable as the strongest steel. While they also are very shiny as if polished, they do not reflect any images. He doesnt know, but of the two, Figment still believes that the flat disc is the best option of the two. As he asks his last two questions of Milo and Lian, They confered a moment and and then responded that each time they saw a group enter it was the last person through the arch that flashed whatever it was they flashed.
The Talon's make their way into the temple right on the heels of the the other guard group. They get to the desk just as they are leaving it and heading to the rear archway. Lian watches carefully and can tell only that whatever was flashed did not reflect any light off of it.
Olana (Cats Grace) d20+1=17 Thursday February 14th, 2002 2:05:08 AM
Feeling suddenly very light of foot, Olana walks along joining Ingrge in occasionally roughing up Lian and Bertram, but making sure she pulls her punches.
Quietly she tries to observe all she can of the other guards' behaviour. ((Spot check DC 17))
Lian d20+6=26 d20+10=12 Thursday February 14th, 2002 3:55:11 AM
Moving along with Olana, Lian keeps up the guise. He winces every time she hits him. He says nothing.
Lian will be watching and listening to everything. (Spot Check of 26 and Listen of 12)
K'Nara (Bull's Strength, Stoneskin) Thursday February 14th, 2002 6:37:35 AM
The disguised bladesinger acted imperious, tossing her head...and waiting for Fluet to greet the guards in the manner that Milo and Lian's investigation had previously revealed. Once the Talons got to the proper spot, she intended to flash the disc-thing, trusting to Figment's judgement on that particular item.
Figment (Mage Armor, Cat's Grace) Thursday February 14th, 2002 10:15:53 AM
The mage defers to K'Nara and preceeds her through the arch as the others go through. He watches the group in front of him closely to make sure he sees any specific "way" the priest flashes the disc. Also, he goes back over his perusal both the detect magic and the physical examination to determine if the 2 sides of the disc are identical. If not, he quickly tries to decide which side should go up before they get to the arch, and he will whisper the instructions - if any - to the warrior woman.
Figment Thursday February 14th, 2002 10:16:35 AM
Note: Was Figment able to determine what had killed the 3 priests the Talons waylayed?
Brother Bertram Thursday February 14th, 2002 9:22:01 PM
As Bertram is hit, he strains against the bonds, briefly in a rage snarling at his 'captors' then slumps down, beaten.
Milo (Invisible) d20+24=44 d20+7=17 d20+8=12 Thursday February 14th, 2002 10:04:57 PM
Milo creeps along amidst his friends, alert to any danger that may await them. Though he finds it difficult to hear things over all the racket his friends are making. (OOC: Made a move silently check DC 44, made spot and listen checks at DC 17 and 12 respectively)
Flueterflam - The Priest d20+2=11 d20+6=20 Friday February 15th, 2002 1:47:20 AM
Calmly and surely, the bard leads the group towards the guard gate. As he is walking, he makes a mental note of whether it seemed that the group ahead took longer than the time required to speak the phrase Milo and Lian told him to say. (ooc: Int DC 11) Fluet walks in front of the group as though he expects the others to keep the proper control of their 'prisoners'.
As the group reaches the gate, Flueterflam stops, and dramatically pauses for a moment. He takes a calm breath and begins in his surest, humblest, and most religious voice to speak. With the best to his ability, the bard adds an eerie tone to his speech:
"The Heart of the True Woldian God is Black and will soon eclipse the Light."
The entire time, he never looks at the guards. He appears that he has done this before and that it is a routine practice. After pausing a short moment more, he continues on. The bard prays in his heart that the rest of the group follows his lead, and does not look back. (ooc: Bluff DC 20)
DM kent d20+2=9 Friday February 15th, 2002 6:00:33 PM
(Figment couldn't tell exactly what caused the guards' deaths, but it was obviously not self inflicted as their hands were bound and they were unconcious. It was also obvious that there was some sort of wound in each of their backs.)
Figment's further perusal of the disks reveal that the two sides, while apparently identical, do have some minor differences, most importantly that one side is very slightly concave.
Milo moves along with the rest of the group without any difficulties and even manages to overhear a snippet of conversation that is quite interesting, if true. "... yup, I hear it's true. ... teus captured that big Green Liz.... cut of one of his ....ws, and then ...... escaped. .... I hear several ....ier heads over that."
The guards barely look up as you arrive at the desk. As Fluet speaks the phrase, one of the guards mumbles something that sounds a little like,
"May the darkness fill your heart and lead to victory over the Light." One of the other guards loks up and simply asks, "Purpose?"
After stating their purpose of bringing in the prisoners the Domite priest in particular, They are waved past.
Figment manages to get his best guess information to K'Nara about the discs and they head through the arch with K'Nara following at the rear. As each of you pass under the arch, you feel as though you entire body has fallen asleep as you each feel a tingling fill your body (fortitude save DC14 to avoid calling out in surprise). It gets worse the further away from the arch you get. As soon as K'Nara passes underr the arch and flashes the disk, the sensation disapears. Ahead of you there is a corridor that has three doors (two on the right and one on the left) and 30 feet away ends in a T intersection, with another door in the wall opposite the hall you are currently in.
Lian d20+4=24 d20+6=16 d20+10=11 Friday February 15th, 2002 7:54:39 PM
Passing under the arch, Lian barely notices the tingling (Fortitude Save of 24). Head down, he continues in with his friends. Still trying to keep a relatively accurate count of guards and clerics. (Spot of 16 and a Listen of 11)
Flueterflam d20+1=15 Friday February 15th, 2002 8:02:41 PM
As the priest...once bard....passes under the arch, he barely keeps in a yelp from the strange tingling sensation. Instead Fluet grimaces and keeps the cry to himself. Seeing the path fork, he turns to K'Nara for a selection.
Olana d20+4=12 Friday February 15th, 2002 11:32:12 PM
The elf gives out an audiable squeak, as they pass beneath the arch. She then frowns as though it's happened before, and she's getting a little tired of it.
Uuuugh - what was that? A spell of some kind, presumably. She dearly hoped she hadn't given anything away as they move further inside.
She gets ready to break from the line up and check those doors.
Milo d20+8=26 d20+24=43 Saturday February 16th, 2002 1:05:13 AM
As the magic washes over Milo, he shrugs it off, and continues through with his friends, padding quietly across the floor and thinking to himself, 'Darkness over Light... I'll give you some light right over your head... pathetic loser. Marteus'll be lucky if he doesn't get my boot in his hind end.' (Made save at DC 26, Made Move Silently check at DC 43)
Brother Bertram d20=1 Saturday February 16th, 2002 12:57:25 PM
As they passed under the arch, Bertram cries out as the strange feeling comes over him. He then slumps and continues trudging along.
Figment d20+4=19 Sunday February 17th, 2002 10:36:39 PM
The mage moves along with the others and is clearly relieved when K'Nara gets the arch deactivated. The mage sees if he can notice which door the group before him goes in. Also, he listens for screams or other indications of prisoners.
K'Nara d20+10=28 d20=8 d20-1=17 Monday February 18th, 2002 6:49:02 AM
The leader of the Talons didn't cry out when the tingling sensation came over her, but she did remember to "cuff" Bertram when he was surprised by the effect.
"Silence, o godless one!" K'Nara snarled. "You'll be joining your beloved deity in the hereafter soon enough..!" Her hazel eyes sharply appraised the choices of which way to go--which way had the previous group gone..?
K'Nara tried to remember where the other group of clerics had headed, but nothing came to mind. (OOC: Intelligence check of 8.)
She strained to hear any clues. (OOC: Listen check for screams/telltale sounds is 17.) Barring anyone else indicating that they knew which way to go, K'Nara was inclined to opt for opening the door closest to the party and start searching the temple THAT way.
Ingrge d20+7=14 d20+4=24 Monday February 18th, 2002 5:52:41 PM
Ingrge squirms a bit as he passes under the arch and responds by shoving Lian in the back with his staff. "Move along quick now, head toward the door at the intersection. That is where you two are headed, and then we will have some fun with you two."
DM kent Monday February 18th, 2002 6:24:11 PM
Ingrge leads the group to the intersection and then looking back at K'nara nods at the door in front of him.
Milo takes a look down each corridor and they seem to be fairly dark and door free for as far as he can see.
The Talon's leader indicates that the slave elf should go ahead, so Ingrge reaches out and opens the door.
The group enters the room and looks around. The room seems to be an empty holding area. There are shackles all along one wall and two small suspended cages. Along the opposite side from the shackles are several chests and a desk, with a chair. Opposite the entry door and in the wall beside the desk are two other doors.
Once inside the room, the Talons shut the door and quickly search the desk and the chests. They find several papers in the desk that look promising and of possible interest, which are stuffed in to a pouch for later perusal. In the chests however the real bonanza is located. Inside each you find six more sets of Priestware.
Brother Bertram Monday February 18th, 2002 9:13:06 PM
Bertram stretches, glad to be free of his bonds. He looks to Ingrge for a moment while rubbing the back of his head. "Nice strike Friend Ingrge, Now dont ever do it Again!" His quick grin belies his gruff manner.
Milo (Invisible) Monday February 18th, 2002 11:05:36 PM
Milo glances down at the cleric's robes and then whispers, "Now, all I have to do is to double in size... I'll just stay as I am guys. So... right or left down those corridors outside? They both looked about the same to me... wanna flip a coin? How about we just start by going right, and see what we bump into. I'll take point, so I can warn you of people coming. Is that okay?"
Olana Tuesday February 19th, 2002 1:49:35 AM
Rather glad that she didn't smack Bertram earlier, Olana pulls on one of the robes and smiles sweetly at the dwarf, although K'Nara's 'O godless one!' speech earlier was rattling around her head, making her want to chuckle.
'Just be careful, Milo,' she whispers as plans are made. Using a dagger, she attempts to cut discreet holes so she can pull her blades out smoothly. She looks like an elf in a robe.
K'Nara Tuesday February 19th, 2002 6:38:11 AM
The bladesinger frowned thoughtfully.
"Stay invisible, Milo--and scout down the right corridor first." she said. "Use your head and come right back to either report what you found or to look down the left corridor. Once you spot something that you think all of us ought to go and see, come here and let us know." K'Nara grimaced.
"I just hope we find what we're looking for--before any of these Dark Lord fools find us." Once more, the tall female fighter mentally lambasts the cryptic directions given by the less-than-popular Parnoth.
Lian d20+14=22 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 9:13:11 AM
Lian closes one of the chests, then sits down on top of it folding his legs. He closes his eyes and begins to meditate (just relaxing from the last few stressful minutes). "Friends, we have truely been sucked into a fools mission. Someone knows we are here, and the dead clerics we ambushed, the ones Figment said were already dead before he touched them? Well, how else could they have died? Parnoth set us up!" Lian pondered what he was about to say and still with his eyes shut, says; "Or it was those Gold Dragon folks that set us up."
OOC: Listening for K'naras foots steps to come close to hit him, Listen Check of 22.
Figment (Mage Armor, Cat's Grace +4) Tuesday February 19th, 2002 10:32:39 AM
The mage listens at the doors and waits for the others to get ready. "We need to find the prisoner holding area immediately. Let's take any extra robes for the people we are to spring.". If there is time the mage glances at the papers to get an idea on what they are about. Perhaps find clues as to where to go next.
Figment, Cont. Tuesday February 19th, 2002 4:35:52 PM
The mage responds to Lian. "I can assure you Lian that the Gold Dragons had nothing to do with any setup - if in fact we have been. I doubt they could prevent us from escaping at this point if we put our minds to it. But your point about the guards troubles me too. They will either be waiting for us, or will be soon. We'd better hurry. Besides, I have no problem blasting away as many as these cretans as possible. I'd prefer they weren't ready for us though.". The mage makes sure his healing potions and wand are in easy reach. He prepares for battle.
Flueterflam Tuesday February 19th, 2002 9:08:59 PM
The bard keeps quiet while they wait around. It appears that he is not so much preoccupied by anything, but rather waiting for whatever answer the group is looking for to come to him.
Ingrge d20+2=11 d20+2=17 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 9:13:22 PM
Getting dressed in clerical garb seems to irritate Ingrge more than a little bit and he spends the time while Milo is scouting listening to the two other doors.
DM Kent Tuesday February 19th, 2002 9:40:39 PM
Fluet and Lian sits and mulls, as Bertram and K'nara fume a bit. Olanna cuts holes in her robes. Figment pores over the papers trying hard to figure out what they say, but they seem to be written in an archaic language, that while familiar, he cant read. Ingrge listens at a couple of doors grunting that the he might actually hear something if the others would be silent. As he makes it to the second door farthest away from the group, he manages to hear voices that appear to be coming closer. He relays this info to the others.
Milo skulks around down the left corridor and finds that it seems to head into the priests' personal quarters. He has several times had to backtrack quickly in order to remain unseen and undetected.
He quickly backtracks and heads down the right corridor after going about 50 feet, Milo feels a definite change of temperature and starts hearing some odd noises. None of them are very clear.
Returning to the room Milo relays his information to K'Nara and the other Talons and the decision is made to head back out and go down the right corridor.
The Talons follow behind the invisible Milo (LOL)and as they make their way deeper into the temple's depths, they pass several other groups of robed figures, though none of them are ever larger than three or four. The corridor goes 450 feet down at a gentle slope and while it twists and turns there are no other apparent doors along the way. Eventually the talons see what can only be the end of their journey as the passage seems to end in a large open cavern. The Talons are now 40 feet from the entry, but as it curves they can not see in.
Milo (Invisible) d20+24=35 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 10:05:10 PM
Milo whispers to K'nara, "Let me check this first... I know it feels a lot like the cave setting we just experienced, but I promise, I'll be quick. In and out to report." Milo waits for K'nara's response. If it is affirmative he skulks in. (OOC: Made Move Silently check DC 35)
Olana d20+1=16 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 11:24:47 PM
The elf moves as quietly as possible through the corridors. This time, she's not running in anywhere, and keeping well behind Figment who, going off his earlier comments, would probably become extremely violent at the drop of a hat.
In the back of her mind, she wonders if any of the tribe back in Culverwood would look upon her that way. After all - she hadn't exactly been idle with her swords, or her arrows. 'Cut Throat Elf' wasn't quite how she saw herself. Oh, it was quite depressing really if she thought about it. Still... back to the matter in hand.
Her hands hover over the blades by her side, her ears listen for all sounds up ahead. ((Listen DC 16))
Lian d20+11=22 d20+14=28 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 12:24:22 AM
Lian slips on one of the robes when everyone begins to get ready to go. He has no idea how to act as a cleric. He ties a piece of cloth around his head (like a bandana) to hide his ears and if the robe has a hood, pulls it up over his head and is ready to travel. "Milo, BE careful friend." He looks in the direction he believes his invisible friend to be in, shaking a finger. As they begin to move down the hall, Lian moves as though gliding. (Check of 22) He is even more alert this deep in the temple, listening to everything. (Check of 28)
K'Nara d20=3 d20-1=14 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 6:14:17 AM
Heartily wishing that she'd at least had the time to get Lucia fixed before having to come here, K'Nara nodded at Milo's suggestion.
"Do it!"
While awaiting the invisible rogue's return, the leader of the Talons tried to remain alert to either spotting trouble (OOC: arrrgh--Spot check total is actually 2!) or listening for it (OOC: Listen check is 14.)
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 20th, 2002 7:46:46 AM
Bertram sighs and starts gathering the ropes again. "There is no way I will pass for one of thier priests and no way that I can don those robes anyways me thinks. As for how those priests died....They all had one of those foul daggers on them as well. Any chance that the daggers were cursed? And if so, are we in trouble as well? Just something more to worry about!" Bertram chuckles and waits for his orders.
Figment Wednesday February 20th, 2002 8:50:44 AM
The mage prepares to cast. He whispers "If it looks like we have combat, hold your positiion and let the casters cast, then close. They will be much easier to take out and will hit you fewer times. That may become important before we get out of here.".
Flueterflam Wednesday February 20th, 2002 1:54:07 PM
With a large hint of sarcasm, Fluet whispers to Figment, "You mean you don't like casting horrible spells of death and destruction upon us?" A large smile and a pat on the mage's back proves that Flueterflam has no fear.
Ingrge (Bulls strength +4) Wednesday February 20th, 2002 7:32:45 PM
Ingrge waits for a plan but starts going through his spell order in case they are needed.
DM kent Wednesday February 20th, 2002 7:52:43 PM
Milo makes his way around the bend and can see what is obviously a very large cavern. There is also alot of light coming out from the room. there seems to be quite a bit of activity going on as Milo can hear many different voices talking and moaning. About 10 minutes later he hears the sound of a gong far in the distance behind him. Milo is worried about being spotted because of the strange lighting but is feeling pretty confident about his abilities when as he steps through the opening into the room he feels a familiar tingle. (Milo, Fortitude DC 18 or cry out)
Outside in the passageway the rest of the Talons wait and watch. About ten minutes after Milo left the sound of a Gong is heard coming from behind you where you came from.
Milo d20+8=27 d20+19=39 d20+7=13 Thursday February 21st, 2002 1:30:46 AM
Milo grits his teeth as the strange sensation passes through him again. Milo picks up the pace, moving quickly ahead to try and see the source of the strange sounds. Milo tries to get a good view of what is going on, and then intends to turn back around and head straight back to his friends. (OOC: Made my Fort save at DC 27. Made my Move Silently check at DC 39 even though I took an automatic -5 deduction from my normal roll so that I can move my normal speed, and still remain quiet. Made a Spot check DC 13)
Lian d20+6=20 d20+14=31 Thursday February 21st, 2002 1:33:28 AM
Lian whispers four simple words, "This is not good!" He begins to look around in reaction to the 'gong'. He also is listening for running or movement in the direction in which they just came.
(Spot and Listen, 20 and 31 respectively)
K'Nara d20=4 Thursday February 21st, 2002 6:35:15 AM
The gong may or may not have been a good sign, but if the ringing held any significance, K'Nara could not divine it (OOC: made an Intelligence check of 4.)
As soon as Milo got back and reported his findings, K'Nara thought some more and nodded.
"Sounds like the place we might find...whoever it is we're here to rescue." she told the others. "Let's go!" The tall human rummaged around in the folds of her damnable robe to pluck out that disc again--from Milo's description, it sounded as though the group may be needing it to enter the cavern.
Olana Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:52:26 AM
The elf prepares to assume some kind of clerical demeanor in order to move on. "This place is just too weird," she whispers, wrinkling her nose.
Figment Thursday February 21st, 2002 11:34:05 AM
The mage follows the group, pretty sure they are about to be ambushed. He whispers "I suggest we prepare for battle. Looks like they are aware we are coming.".
Lian d20+14=15 d20+6=10 Thursday February 21st, 2002 5:32:19 PM
"Figment, my friend, you have miracle spell that increases power, can you give me that spell. I would appreciate it Friend Figment."
Lian continues to Listen and watch, (15 and 10 spot, respectively.)
Brother Bertram Thursday February 21st, 2002 9:09:47 PM
Bertram rubs some more feeling into his wrists and retrieves his axe and hefts it waiting for the guards to arrive. He checks to see if the door can be locked then checks to see if there is any other things in the room that might be of some use.
Flueterflam Thursday February 21st, 2002 9:15:15 PM
The bard unsheathes his sword underneath his priestware. He follows the others quietly, not sure whether to be suspicious enough for an ambush. "May I say also, that we should be careful, in case this is not an ambush. We could end up causing far more trouble than we want. Be wary, not everything is bad one hundred percent of the time."
DM Kent Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:08:14 PM
Milo gets about 3 feet past the start of the tingle when a sharp burning sensation shoots down through his body. He then feels like hie is trying to walk forward through thick, molton metal.(Fortitude DC 22) or scream in pain. Milo can barely make out several large aparatus and people moving before he can no longer move forward any further. Milo makes his way back to the group, wheather after screaming or nearly biting through his tongue, and reports his findings to the group.
Lian does hear movement behind, but it isn't moving very fast and doesn't seem all that close, but underground, who knows.
K'nara moves the group forward and toward the cavern and enters first flashing the disk as she passes through. In front of you is a scene that could be straight from Dantes Inferno. There are many different types of torture devices and imprisonment options ranging from shackles and suspended cages to what looks to be a surgery table to several racks. It seems that all of these are in use and manned by at least one priest.
Figment Friday February 22nd, 2002 12:24:01 AM
The mage immediately casts sleep on the largest group of priests he sees - hopefully catching more than one. (Map?)
Lian d20+14=17 d20+6=18 d20+6=22 d8-1=3 Friday February 22nd, 2002 12:30:26 AM
"Friends...!" Lian whispers "...somethings moving up behind us, it sounds big, it maybe under us!" Stopping in his tracks, Lian turns on his heals. He prepares for an assault (he Readies an Action for the ambush, striking out at the first non-Talon he sees), he gets into a stance, fists out and legs bent, and stands dead still looking toward where the sound came from.
(Listening again VERY carefully with a 17, and Spots for an 18) (and a premptive strike ahead of time hitting AC 22, for 3 DMG Stunning Attack DC Fort 16 or be stunned a round, Defensive AC 21 for Lian, just in case :) )
Milo (Invisible) d20+8=14 d20+8=24 Friday February 22nd, 2002 1:45:39 AM
Milo indeed bites into his own tongue, as the pain shoots through his dimuntive frame, and barely manages to remain quiet. A trickle of blood runs down his invisible cheek, and he wipes it off on his sleeve as he eases out of the room and returns to the group. (OOC: Failed first Fort save with a 14. Spent a hero point, and rolled 24 to make it)
Seeing the scene of horror in the torture room makes Milo practically froth with anger. Though knowing that he must stick to the play, he holds back, waiting for Ingrge and Figment to do their stuff.
Olana Friday February 22nd, 2002 6:44:27 PM
"Of all the blessed trees in Culverwood," whispers the elf in shock as she sees the sight in front of them.
She takes her bow and pulls an arrow from out of the neck of her robe. Keeping her eye on Figment and Ingrge, she stays out of their way, noting that Figment is casting already. Where was Milo? And what had Lian said? She saw his stance and feared the worst.
Nevertheless - she got ready to fire.
Brother Bertram Friday February 22nd, 2002 10:14:48 PM
Bertram sees the torturing going on before him and actually growled as he moved forward gripping his axe.
K'Nara d20-1=13 d20+5=8 Monday February 25th, 2002 9:05:03 AM
Being in this chamber of horrors was making the seasoned fighter's stomach do a slow roll. K'Nara looked around her intently, trying to spot whomever it was that Parnoth said they would "automatically know" needed rescuing. (OOC: Spot check comes up 13, so I'm assuming she doesn't see anything right away since the benchmark is usually 15.)
Not seeing any one particular person, K'Nara notices that Figmentary is casting--what the hell was he casting..? Magic Missile? A Fireball? (OOC: boofed her Spellcraft check at 8.) Never mind--she knew enough from previous experience to let him finish before drawing a sword, so K'Nara merely tensed, her hand under her robe, ready to pull out the scimitar that was now resting at her left hip...
Flueterflam Monday February 25th, 2002 3:26:59 PM
After the bard mutters to himself, loudly enough for the others to catch, "They...not....even know........we could be....friends.....do they know yet??" Allowing the scene to fill in his mind, the bard feels a bit queasy. However, he stands his ground and waits for a large onslaught due to his incautious partners.
Fluet grips his sword uneasily, waiting to throw off his new robes. Staying near Lian, the bard whispers, "If there is someone coming, a few of us should guard this entrance. How bout it Lian? Although, I must say that our position would be better in the open area, then in this small passage. We'd do best to cut them off AS they come out from here."
Ingrge Monday February 25th, 2002 6:46:07 PM
Preparing a web spell, Ingrge looks for an area which he can totally block off allowing only one access to the talons.
DM kent d20+5=15 d20+5=18 Monday February 25th, 2002 7:07:18 PM
(OOC. Please post Spell DCs when casting)
Almost at the same time Figment and Ingrge let loose their spells, both aimed in the same general area. Figment's spell seems to take effect on only one of the clerics (c4), but the prisoner (p10) also succumbs.
Ingrge spell shoots a mass of sticky web attaching itself to the wall and the table, effectively blocking the party's right flank.
K'Nara spies several prisoners but none of them seem to stand out for any reason.
Olana finds her target and prepares to fire.
Lian sees nothing close to him to attack as of yet and sets up with Fluet near the cavern's entrance.
Bertram and Milo wait somewhat impatiently for the spell casters to finish up.
DM kent Monday February 25th, 2002 7:10:19 PM
The clerics are busy working on or interrogating their various prisoners when the Talons enter the cavern. Not alerted by any untoward actions, at first they pay little attention to the group. As Figment and Ingrge cast, however, a change comes over the group as they start to leave their places and move toward the fire pit and the Talons. Several of the clerics seem to be starting to cast spells.
Lian d20+14=27 d20+6=19 Monday February 25th, 2002 7:38:27 PM
Lian nods in agreement to Fluet. The young elf begins to noticeably fidget standing in the opening. His ears perk up when the casters let loose but he doesn't budge from his spot.
OOC: Listening for 27 and Spotting for 19. Still Readied for an attack from the rear. Dodging and Defensive for AC 22.
Figment 7d6(5+3+4+6+5+6+6)=35 Monday February 25th, 2002 8:37:11 PM
Seeing the clerics move to action the mage swings into full combat mode he casts a fireball towards the front of the fire pit so as to catch C1 and C2 but not P8 or Bertram. He says to Ingrge, "Better blast the ones over there (nodding towards C5 and C6).". He indicates to the others that he's done with his 'area' attacks and that they can close. He looks to Ingrge to see what he's going to do as he prepares to cast again (35 DMG to 1&2 - and any others who close near the fire pit).
Figment Monday February 25th, 2002 8:47:29 PM
The mage moves right staying near the wall so as to avoid any area of effect spells.
Figment (Mage Armor, Cat's Grace +4) Monday February 25th, 2002 8:48:20 PM
(Forgot to post current spells in effect. Sorry...)
Brother Bertram Monday February 25th, 2002 9:25:16 PM
With a roar that echoed from the walls Bertram surges forward towards the nearest of the foul priests. "DOMI!"
Milo (Invisible) d20+24=30 Monday February 25th, 2002 9:34:29 PM
Keeping one eye on the evil clerics, and one eye on his friends, Milo skirts the wall to the left, making a full double move, and moving as silently as possible. (OOC: Milo's movement is 40 ft. around the left hand perimeter of the room. Made a Move Silently check at DC 30)
Flueterflam Tuesday February 26th, 2002 1:07:43 AM
Noticing that all sneakiness has been destroyed, Fluet risks speaking loudly enough for the others to hear. "I told you guys that they would not have noticed us. Can't blame the bard," he sticks out his tongue, despite the circumstances, "at least I had enough know-how to see that they wouldn't have seen us a threat. Too late now I guess."
His speech down, Flueterflam grabs Lian's arm. "You saw how the tunnel bottlenecked back about 50 ft or so? We need to hit that spot. It's going to get hot in here quick. If we get up there, at least we won't have all this casting going on. Plus it will be much darker. We will have a lot going for us." Walking several feet, a second thought passes his mind, "Unless you were not actually hearing anyone following us?? This could be a problem. Let's still go up there, and wait for a few moments, if the sounds you heard are not much louder, we must rush back here and help out. How's that sound?"
K'Nara Tuesday February 26th, 2002 7:07:57 AM
Drawing her scimitar, K'Nara took the time to hiss in a low but clear voice to her fellow Talons:
"If any of you have a means to Silence these priests, I suggest you do it NOW..!" Then the bladesinger is off and running--straight towards Cleric #5 (path between the firepit and the table/area with Prisoner #10 on it.)
Ingrge Tuesday February 26th, 2002 8:05:19 PM
Nodding to Figment, Ingrge once again begins to cast what appears to be a lightning spell aimed at the two Figment is pointing at.
Olana d20+12=22 d6+4=10 Tuesday February 26th, 2002 8:57:48 PM
As soon as Figment and Ingrge start blasting, Olana pulls back on the bow and lets her arrow shoot toward Cleric 4. Whap! Immediately, she moved off to the right, hopfully keeping out of the cleric's casting range, while reloading.
DM Kent d20+6=24 d20+6=18 d8+3=11 d8+3=8 d20+6=21 d20+6=21 d20+6=25 d8+3=7 6d6(4+5+4+2+5+6)=26 d20+3=19 d20+3=11 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 7:13:56 PM
(OOC: Please make sure you list any spell affecting you, or I can not account for them and it will be as if they didn't exist for that round.)
As Bertram makes his charge he gains some momentum and then starts feeling like he is wading through glue (Hold Spell Will save DC 16). He is soon met by cleric 6 connecting for 7 points.
K'nara rushes up and meets C3 who takes his Attack of Opportunity and his normal attack connecting with both for 19 points.
Figment's fireball goes boom and engulfs the two clerics, who soon after walk out seemingly unharmed.
C1,C2,C7, and C8 move to their new positions
C9 starts moving and then apparently disappears.
Ingrge's lightning bolt heads toward and nails C5, C6 and P9 for damage killing the prisoner and definitely hurting the two clerics.
Olana's arrow hits the sleeping C4 and he slumps over even more.
Lian and Fluet move out into the passage where they definitely hear noise, but aren't real sure what it is due to the noise of the battle behind them.
Milo makes his move around the edge and passes by the three pit cages and then sees several clerics coming his way.
Brother Bertram d20+10=27 d20+6=23 d10+5=14 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:03:08 PM
As Bertram fought against the effects of the spell from he felt the cleric's weapon make contact with him and a pain rip through his side. Roaring in pain and rage, Bertram throws off much of the spell's effect and with a mighty swing, connects with the foul cleric, enjoying the feel as the axe bites deep. Once again he takes up his battlecry for a God no longer able to hear...."For Domi!"
(OOC 14 Damage)
Olana (Cats Grace +5 Dex) d20+17=20 d6+4=9 d20+1=19 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:10:27 PM
Olana moves a little further to the right of Figment and her next arrow heads across the room straight for Cleric #1. (9 Dam if connected)
Who were they supposed to be rescuing again, she wondered, while reloading and looking around frantically. ((Spot check 19))
Milo (Invisible) d20+19=34 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:45:28 PM
Seeing the clerics headed his way, Milo isn't sure whether they can see him or not. Perhaps they have some strange magic or something. However, attempting to keep his cool, the halfling steps quietly out from the wall, and moves in a straight line so as to pass between the cleric to his left (C1) and the prisoner (P1). If the cleric seems to be looking at Milo, the halfling dashes right by him. (With dodge on P1 and mobility, that brings my AC up to 22). However if the cleric seems oblivious to Milo's presence, then he stalks around to his backside to get in position for a sneak attack. (Made a Move silently check with a -5 modifier for moving at my regular speed at DC 34)
Flueterflam d20+9=21 d20=11 Thursday February 28th, 2002 12:48:40 AM
Whispering again to Lian, "Ok, there is something, you were right. Let's hide on each side of this, I know that whatever it is will be in for a treat....a deadly one." That said, the bard disappears into the darkness of one side of the passage. (Hide DC 21) After a moment passes, an idea passes in the bard's head. Almost hissing the words to Lian, "Let whatever it is pass and we'll backstab it, or them. More bang for our steel, heh?" A wink is lost into the depths of the passage way as Flueterflam quiets his breathing and positions himself to attack.
At worst, the two would be holding off whatever was coming until the others could get a chance to regroup after their current fighting. As each second passed, Fluet gets a worse and worse feeling in his stomach, as if expecting something far worse than he initially expected. He listens with his ears cupped in the direction opposite of the cavern, hoping to figure out what was on its way. (voluntary listen DC 11)
Lian Thursday February 28th, 2002 1:23:43 AM
"Fluet, I am not sure where that sound is coming from, but I am not waiting around, you stay here." Lian leaves Fluet to deal in the tunnel, to meet Ingrge out in the room.
He whispers to his elven friend. "Ingrge, which way are you casting? There is no one to occupy these clerics, I am going for the first cleric to the left of the pit."
Lian sets eyes on C1, Dodge against him (or her) and Defensive, AC 22 against C1, 21 against everyone else.
Flueterflam Thursday February 28th, 2002 1:49:01 AM
The bard shrugs and shakes his head, but stays hidden. It bothers him, seeming like he is running for the fight where his friends are in danger. However, he feels that if luck is with him, his battle just might make things easier for the others.
K'Nara d20+8=9 d20+8=28 d20+8=14 d6+3=6 d6+3=4 Thursday February 28th, 2002 7:13:13 AM
(OOC: I rolled a 1 [aaaaack!] the first time, so I spent a Hero Point and rerolled for a 20 [hooray!] the second time, so I rolled to see if it was a Crit Hit: first blow hits AC28 for 6hp damage, the second hits AC14 for 4hp damage.)
K'Nara hauled back and slammed her scimitar angrily into the evil cleric, her usual graceful mode of combat absent in the face of her outrage at what these followers of the Dark Lord were doing. If she had her way, the Talons would kick everybody's butts here and then have the priests take the prisoners's places on the racks and such..!
Figment (Mage Armor, Cat's Grace +4) d20=20 Thursday February 28th, 2002 2:21:48 PM
Seeing that his fireball was ineffective and also seeing the cleric in the rear disappear, the mage comments dryly "Oh no you don't!". He casts Stinking Cloud centering it just south of P2 (at the 60' mark) so that it gets C2, C5, C7, C8, and presumably C9 (30' radius). He makes sure not to engulf Bertram and K'Nara.". (Doesn't know where Milo is, sorry...).
Ingrge (bull's strength) Thursday February 28th, 2002 8:47:32 PM
Focussed on what was going on and what spell to cast next, Ingrge jumps a bit as Lian comes up behnd him and speaks.
"Oh I think I am going to be casting something on myself. (Casting Fly)
DM kent d20+3=6 d20+3=19 d20+3=21 d20+3=5 d20+3=5 Thursday February 28th, 2002 9:12:23 PM
Figment's spell goes off as expected and there is soon a thick billowing cloud of major stink that fills a good portion of the room catching C1,2,6,7,& 8 as well as Milo and Bertram and several of the prisoners in it. Moments later C2 and C7 make their way out of the cloud. C2 moves forward and jumps up on the table.
After K'nara's and Bertram's attacks, C3 & C6 fall.
Olanna gets her arrow off just as Figment's spell goes off, and while she did not see it connect she has a good feeling that it did.
C5 casts another spell and Figment feels something niggle at him ( Will Save DC17)
Fluet prepares for something and definitely hears something heading his way now.
Lian focusses on C1 and then his soon to be opponent vanishes in a cloud of nauseous gas. Moments later C7 makes his way out.
Olana (Cats Grace +5) d20+17=27 d6+4=7 Thursday February 28th, 2002 11:22:04 PM
Olana's bow shifts toward what she can see, homing in on cleric number 2. How nice of him to jump up on the table like that. *Whap* for 7 Dam.
As soon as the arrow is loose, she starts to reload, hoping that cloud wouldn't waft over to where she was, it smelled bad enough as it was. It sort of made you wonder what the spell componants were for that.
Lian d20+6=23 d8-1=2 Friday March 1st, 2002 5:08:21 AM
Lian watches his target engulfed in the gas, shortly after he sees C7 emerge. That's his new target, before that evil doer can even compose himself from the gas, Lian just simply walks up and begins to pummel the C7.
Lian clinches his fists and lowers his eyes, then goes at the cleric.
He shifts his Dodge for AC 19 on him.
Hitting the cleric square in the face for AC 23 on the his only attack this round for 2 pts of real DMG.
Milo (Invisible... to start anyway) d20+8=27 d20+19=27 d20+6=25 d20+6=11 d20+6=15 4d6(4+3+5+2)+1=15 4d6(3+1+5+2)+1=12 Friday March 1st, 2002 10:45:56 AM
Milo holds his breath as the stinking cloud forms, and moves quickly out of the area, drawing his sword as he closes on one of the clerics. (OOC: Made my save DC 27, closed on C7)
Continuing to move quietly, Milo approaches the cleric unawares and lets his short sword do the talking. Milo fades into visibility. (I hit AC 25 for a critical threat, but I don't think that AC 11 confirms for 15 hps total sneak attack. I hit AC 15 on my second swing for 12 hps if I hit.)
Figment d20+7=20 d20+2=20 Friday March 1st, 2002 2:29:56 PM
The mage notes the insurgence on his will and he quickly blasts away any effect being pressed on him (20). He then turns his attention to the disappearing cleric. He scans the fog bank for the tell-tale signs of someone invisible leaving it. (i.e. It should be pretty obvious as wisps of green fog move out of the way and swirl. Spot Check 20). He "Ingrge, look for the invisble guy exiting the cloud! Fluet, come in here so I can cut off his escape!". The mage moves over behind Ingrge so he can see the exit clearly. Not waiting he casts a web just beyond Fluet so that nobody can get out. Then he focuses his attaention back on the cloud looking and listening for C9.
Flueterflam Friday March 1st, 2002 6:26:54 PM
Hearing the a cleric was on his way out, Fluet casts Grease about 2ft away from himself and between him and the cavern. The bard quickly becomes silent, trying to act as though one of the other talons was just attempting to hinder the escapee. Flueterflam waits to see a foot print in the slippery substance so he may pounce. He readies his sword for a very deadly thrust.
The entire time, he hopes dearly that whatever is coming down the passage way from the other side gives him enough time to hide again before showing up.
Ingrge (bulls strength, flying) d20+4=23 Saturday March 2nd, 2002 3:01:50 PM
Ingrge nod as Figment makes his request and takes off above the cloud to scout the room and to make it to the other side.(spot check 23)
DM Kent (invinciblility, invulnerability, insanity) d20+4=11 d20+4=23 d20+4=24 d8+4=10 d8+4=11 d8+4=5 d2=1 Saturday March 2nd, 2002 3:20:08 PM
Figment moves over and casts his spell and notice that right after that a large patch of grease covers the floor at the cavern's entry.
Ingrge taks off and does not see anything or one leaving the murk, nor for that matter does anyone else. However he does notice that there seems to be several familiar people in two of the cages in the rear of the cavern.
Between Lian and Milo C7 is in a world of hurt and takes a shot at Lian missing mightily.
Ripping the arrow out of his leg, C2 bounds off the table and closes with the ranger as she works to re-nock her bow and clobbers her with his flail. (Crit threat 23, crit hit for 26 point of damage.)
C1 manges to stumble out of the fog but doesnt seem to be able to see very clearly yet.
C5, irritated that his spell was rebuffed tries again this timm targeting the one of the two fighters in front of him, that just killed two of his fellows. K'Nara feels some sort of force opposing her and realizes her vision is going foggy. (Fotitude save DC 17 or go blind)
Fluet hears figment and then sees himas he moves into his line of sight. moments later Figment casts his spell and then realizes he is between the web and the grease waiting for god knows what.
Milo d20+8=25 d20+8=26 4d6(5+3+1+4)+1=14 4d6(3+5+5+5)+1=19 d20+8=22 Saturday March 2nd, 2002 3:41:16 PM
No longer invisible, Milo continues to keep his short sword at work, as its magic speed enhancement makes it blur through his attack routine. (OOC: Milo makes a second saving throw against the stinking cloud at DC 22, and hits AC 25 and 26 for 14 and 19 hps respectively. Total damage is 33 hps. If the cleric goes down, Milo literally runs over the top of him, and past Lian to get out of the stinking cloud)
Olana d20+12=24 d8+5=8 Saturday March 2nd, 2002 7:08:40 PM
The elf tries to dodge as the cleric (#2) leaps down to the attack, dropping the arrow as he hits, wincing at the blow. With her free hand, she pulls the longsword she obtained, courtesy of Obsidian (+2) and lunges desperately at her attacker. ((Attack should have been +11, so result = 23, for 8 DAM))
Lian d20+4=23 d20+4=18 d8-1=6 d8-1=5 Sunday March 3rd, 2002 1:49:23 AM
Lian strikes out at the cleric, fists flying very quickly at this point. Hitting AC 23 and 18 (not counting the +2 from the Flanking, OOPS), for 6 and 5 point DMG, total of 11.
OOC: Flurry of Blows, -2/-2 on two attacks.
K'Nara d20+10=26 d20+8=18 d6+3=7 Monday March 4th, 2002 5:44:06 AM
The foggy effect on her vision made the human bladesinger pause long enough to blink most of it away--her angry glare at the casting cleric (#5) took care of any residual arcane obscurity. (OOC: she made the Fort save by getting 26.)
"I am SO not in a good mood..!" she growled as she advanced on the evil priest and struck at him with the still-unfamiliar scimitar. (OOC: hits AC18 for 7hp damage.)
Figment d4=4 d4=4 d4=4 d4=4 Monday March 4th, 2002 11:46:43 AM
Seeing C2 hammering Olana, the mage blasts him with 4 perfectly executed large magic missiles, slamming into him with most impressive force (20 out of 20 DMG!).
Figment, cont Monday March 4th, 2002 11:48:54 AM
The mage points out C1 to Bertram - if he doesn't see him. We wouldn't want the poor evil cleric to feel left out of the carnage, now would we... :)
Brother Bertram d20+6=7 d20+6=18 d10+5=13 Monday March 4th, 2002 8:08:01 PM
Bertram charges the the other cleric, who seemed intent on not being noticed. (C1) Again Bertram felt the satisfying crunch of the axe into its foe.
(OOC Damge 13 Used a Hero Point on the lousy Hit roll)
DM kent d20-5=10 d20+6=21 d8+5=11 Monday March 4th, 2002 9:23:04 PM
Between Milo and Lian C7 does down in a puddle, as does C2 facing Olanna, after Figment striks him with his missiles.
C1 strikes out with very limited vision, missing Bertram but getting closer than expected.
C5 pissed that his spells have had little or no effect flails out with his flail clobbering K'nara for 11 points.
Ingrge spots what can only be the ones they are supposed to rescue, as he recognizes two people in the cages. He drops down to ground level to unlock the cages.
Fluet watches but doesnt see anything crossing into the oil or out of the cloud. But he hears some very clear noises behind him. As he turns to look he sees what can only be about 15 more guards and something more is coming behind them.
Lian d20+8=26 d8-1=2 Monday March 4th, 2002 10:46:58 PM
Lian hears C1 hacking from the cloud and Charges him. Hitting AC 26 for 2 points of DMG. Stunning attack Fortitude DC16, or be stunned.
Dodging against him at AC 19, 18 against anyone else.
"I seeee yoooou!" Lian smiles and begins to pummel C1, his friend from round 2 and 3. "I see you found my friend Bertram!" As Bertram hits the cleric, Lian flinches as if he felt Bertrams axe embedded itself into him. "Ouch! that must really hurt!"
Flueterflam d20+9=23 Monday March 4th, 2002 11:25:25 PM
Wanting to yell about the oncoming onslaught, but fearing of the surprise factor, the bard keeps silent. If he was not already hidden, he slips himself farther into the shadows. (Hide DC 23)
Flueterflam decides to stay hidden while the group passes, so that he can take out the person/thing at the rear of the group. The guards would be easily bottled at the entrance....so the bard hopes.
Figment (Improved Invis, Mage Armor, Cat's Grace +4) Monday March 4th, 2002 11:36:07 PM
Seeing that the clerics are taken care of - except that pesky #9 - and hearing the commotion of approaching guards, the mage casts improved invisibility on himself in preparation for the assault. "Going dark guys. I'm here. Olana, take out the sleeping guy. No need to leave him here to kill more innocents or for him to come up behind us..." Turning he yells to Fluet. "Fluet, get out of the hallway, now..." He prepares his assault on the guards.
The mage momentarily winces at his words to Olana, sensing how distasteful such killing is to her. He hopes she can understand the logic of the decision and carries out the execution, and does not allow her emotions to overwhelm her common sense. At least, common sense according to the mage...
Milo Tuesday March 5th, 2002 3:37:29 AM
Running over the top of the dead cleric, Milo passes Lian and Bertram as they double team another of Marteaus' clerics, on his way around the stinking cloud, toward Olana and K'nara, where he plans to assist if needed.
K'Nara d20+8=26 d20+8=24 d6+3=8 d6+3=8 d6+3=4 Tuesday March 5th, 2002 6:53:37 AM
K'Nara lost all patience with the twerpy evil cleric--she hacked away at the man with a fury that certainly did NOT resemble any of the grace or beauty of the bladesong. (OOC: rolled to hit AC26 and then rolled for a crit hit for AC24; total damage of 20hp for the blow.)
Olana Tuesday March 5th, 2002 4:15:39 PM
On seeing the attacking cleric drop after Figment's lethal blast, she looks over and flashes the mage a smile that says 'thank you'.
As he suggests, she slits the throat of the sleeping cleric and retrieves her arrow. There was no time to moralize here. On her way over to help K'Nara, she looks around, puzzled.
"Where's Fluet?"
Figment Tuesday March 5th, 2002 4:24:42 PM
Note: When the mage begins scrutinizing the guards, he tries to see if any of them are carrying a torch or other incendiary device.
Ingrge d20+2=17 Tuesday March 5th, 2002 8:56:16 PM
Dropping to the floor, Ingrge takes his staff and pointing it at the cages at the back of the room, casts knock on the cage's lock. A that moment he hears a sound behind him.
DM kent d20+8=25 d8=6 3d6(6+6+2)=14 d20+7=22 Tuesday March 5th, 2002 9:09:52 PM
Lian strikes and stuns C1 and Bertram finishes him off wth no trouble.
Olanna has no difficulty dispatching her sleeping foe.
The Stinking Cloud seems to starting to thin some.
K'nara finally dispatches C5.
Milo makes his way across the room as Figment disapears and Fluet sinks further into the shadows.
Ingrge indeed unlocks the cages and while he does hear something behind him it is not enough of anything unusual to alert him to full awareness. The first inkling he has that he is in danger is as he feels the pain of a blade sing deep into his back. Ingrge is just able to avoid a death stroke as he twists just a bit right before the strike (Fortitude save DC 17)(20 points)
The new group of guards, near the tunnel bend, seems to be moving toward the web with several burning torches.
There is some sort of disturbance occuring in the wall nearest to P4
Milo Tuesday March 5th, 2002 10:47:32 PM
Milo gets to where Olana is standing and has a rather disappointed look on his face as he realizes that the clerics are already dead. Looking up to the elf ranger the halfling smiles, twirling his blood-spattered short sword by the hilt. Speaking in a low voice, "I think we're going to have more company soon. Perhaps we should look for another way outta here?"
Lian d20+4=12 d20+14=21 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 1:11:36 AM
Lian looks around to see if he notices anything in the way of other exits. Walking toward Milos position, Lian hears Milos suggestion and begins to REALLY look around.
"Milo, do you need help looking?"
OOC: Lian will move to the wall next to the tunnel and begin to search it (the portion of wall by where C1 went down), Search Check of 12. Listen check just for kicks (listening for Fluets screams of pain :) ) for 21.
Lian Wednesday March 6th, 2002 1:26:22 AM
"Olana, Fluet is in the tunnel. I heard alot of feet in the tunnel about a minute ago, we need to get down there now!"
Brother Bertram Wednesday March 6th, 2002 6:25:22 AM
Bertram hears Ingrge scream and moves towards his attacker quickly hoping to at least slow down the attacker.
K'Nara d20=17 d20=14 d20+8=27 d20+8=18 d6+3=4 d6+3=5 d6+3=9 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 7:21:07 AM
K'Nara snarled as the cleric crumpled to the ground--but immediately scowled at the sound of Ingrge's trouble. (OOC: rolled a total of 16 for the Listen check.) She immediately advanced to where the elf was freeing a prisoner (OOC: rolled a 14 for the attempt to see if this prisoner is recognizable to her as one of the ones that Parnoth wanted freed.) Seeing that Ingrge was injured (and that there was nobody else in sight), the bladesinger automatically assumed that there was an invisible foe somewhere close by.
K'Nara immediately dropped into her bladesinger training, even though she was still unused to the scimitar in her hand. She began the stylized patterns of motion that helped her utilize her awareness of her surroundings and the logical location of where the unseen assassin might now be to whirl her blade to try to strike at the enemy. (OOC: I was thinking to use the Blind Fight feat, but the first blow hits AC27, a possible crit hit. The second attack roll hits AC18. The damage is 18hp if the blow IS a critical hit--but only 4hp if it doesn't. Of course, none of that includes the Blind Fight feat, which the DM will have to decide to roll for if he allows it.)
Figment Wednesday March 6th, 2002 11:11:43 AM
Seeing the clerics are taken care of, the mage dismisses the stinking cloud. He says "Last chance Fluet, your going to get fried if you don't move!".
Figment, Cont. (Improved Invis [69 Rounds remaining], Cats Grace +4, Mage Armor) Wednesday March 6th, 2002 11:23:51 AM
The mage holds his attack until the guards make it through the web and into the area just before the grease. Then he casts another web, easily entrapping all 15 guards. Of course, since they have lit torches the webs ignite giving them each 2d4 fire DMG. (The center will be right to the left of where the 'F' in Fluet. It will cover 40' - completely flling the tunnel).
Olana (Cats grace +5) d20+1=15 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 2:21:24 PM
The elf nods vigorously at Milo. "I think you're right," she says, with the intention of searching the place.
Then as Lian tells her where Fluet is, and she overhears Figment - she narrows her eyes, looking around frantically. Not seeing the mage she nevertheless growls into thin air -
"Figment - please, not until he's out of there." And then - "Fluet! Move!"
This was getting worse by the second. She could see K'Nara and Bertram heading toward Ingrge. What was wrong there, had he been stabbed by one of the prisoners or something? Still looking around((Spot check DC15)), she leaps toward the wall near prisoner #4 and pulls her second blade after slinging her bow over her shoulder. If there were more attacks coming from that direction, she'd be ready for them.
Flueterflam d20+9=21 d20+1=20 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 7:25:53 PM
Finding Figment's comment a bit unsettling, and realizing that he wasn't going to get the chance to backstab the guys on their way, the bard frowns heavily. Fluet runs until just before the grease and takes a graceful dive through the air landing with a roll and quickly standing up. (Tumble DC 21 and Dex DC 20)
As he stands up near the others, he pouts, "Suit yourself, but I coulda handled it myself. Sorry I didn't help out in here, but i didn't see that guy you shouted about, and those other guys were so close. I figured I was placed well enough to help out better in there." The bard makes a mock sniffing noise and then moves towards the side of the tunnel exit. He prepares to attack any guards that make it out of the tunnel.
DM Kent 3d6(5+4+6)=15 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 8:04:13 PM
K'nara, Bertram, and Olanna use all their double movements to get where they wanted to be, but K'nara can not attack this round. What she finds awaiting her is a Cleric under a ratty old cloak, who has just removed a bloody sword from Ingrge's back.
Ingrge turns and touches his opponent (Vampiric touch, No save)
Fluet makes it out of his hidey hole just as the guards start breaking through the first web, though it was getting very smokey in the area where Fluet just left.
Figment casts his next web spell entangling quite a few guards and blocking the way once again. Those webs light on fire as well and screams and curses are heard from those same guards. The smoke however all seems to be entering into the cavern, where you all are limiting visibility, making it difficult to breathe and making it just plain unpleasant.
The wall in front of olanna slides up into the wall and out from behind the space steps a woodelf with a sword in hand.
(enter Falin. Give a brief descriptiopn before your post please.)
Lian d20+3=6 d20+14=26 Thursday March 7th, 2002 2:10:30 AM
Still looking for another exit, Lian hears the cursing from the guards and he stops his searching. He turns to Bertram and says, "Hear that!? I think we have company!"
He turns toward the tunnel, just as Fluet comes flying out. Thinking to himself, Lian wipes his brow, Wow, I am glad to see he is okay!
Lian moves up to the mouth of the tunnel and Hides to the side closest to him. (Hide check of 6) Readying to attack any guard that steps out of the tunnel. He Listens for footfalls that might give him a clue of how many men there are.
OOC: Defensive stance for AC 21. Listen Check of 26.
K'Nara d20+8=25 d6+3=6 d20=20 Thursday March 7th, 2002 7:21:29 AM
K'Nara said nothing, simply striking at the suddenly-visible cleric in the tattered cloak.
(OOC: hits AC25 for 6hp damage.)
Her eyes widened a bit, however--this time her glance at the prisoners beyond the cleric and Ingrge (as brief as it was) resulted in her recognizing whom the Talons were here to rescue.
(OOC: *finally* rolled a 20 on the Intelligence check to recognize the buggers!!!)
Flueterflam d20+9=15 d20=12 Thursday March 7th, 2002 8:37:20 AM
As the smoke enters the cavern, the bard holds his shirt up to his nose to avoid smelling it. In case he hadn't already, Fluet goes to the wall opposite of Lian and also tries to blend into the wall and smoke. (Hide DC 15) To the best of his ability, the bard watches for the first sign of any survivors to come out from the tunnel. (Spot DC 12)
Milo d20+10=21 Thursday March 7th, 2002 9:57:34 AM
Unconcerned about the identity of the prisoners, assuming that an enemy of his enemy is a friend, Milo dashes over to where one prisoner lay strapped to a table (P10), and begins undoing the restraints. (Made a Use Rope check DC 21, didn't know if they were held with ropes or what)
Figment (Improved Invis. [68 Rds left], Cats Grace +4, Mage Armor) d6=2 d6=3 d6=2 d6=5 d6=5 d6=6 d6=4 Thursday March 7th, 2002 11:14:33 AM
As Fluet tries to justify his actions, the mage prepares to cast again. "It's OK Fluet, your idea was good except there turned out to be a whole bunch of baddies. You could not have known that. It's just that a backstab on one when there are 15 is not as effective as area spells. The spell you cast is going to really help out here shortly it looks like too - that one was a real good idea. Let me soften them up some more before you have to engage them. Don't worry, you'll get your chance soon enough.". Estimating that he has time to cast 2 spells before they break through the webs, the mage casts his lightning bolt (27 DMG - entrapped in web so no save?). He then pulls out his wand - preparing to give'em another dose of webbing deciding that it smokes on the bad guys too. He calls back to the others, "If we expect to escape we're going to have to fight our way out. I don't know how how long I can hold them off so get the prisoners and get over here quick!".
Olana (Cats grace +5) d20+1=10 Thursday March 7th, 2002 11:20:55 AM
(Slight but athletic female elf, large bright blue eyes, very long blonde hair tied back in a loose braid - clad in tight green/brown leather and suede. What's a pretty little doll like this doing with all these blades, though eh? ;) )
Olana stops in her tracks on seeing the wood elf. Instinctively, her eyes - blinking in the smoke - check for anything that might link this one to a tribe in Culverwood - style of dress, tattoos, jewelry, anything. ((Spot Check DC10)) She backs up a little, defensive, but curious.
"Hey everyone, we've got company! And there's a door here!"
Brother Bertram Thursday March 7th, 2002 10:48:34 PM
Bertram gets to Ingrge, almost exhausting himself in the process, just in time to see the cleric that attacked Ingrge. Bertram grips his axe tightly and advances..
DM kent Friday March 8th, 2002 7:25:34 PM
K'nara's eyes widen even more if possible as she definitely recognizes the two live prisoners leaving the open cells. They look more than a bit worse for wear, but it is very clear that the prisoners are Mop and the Heirophant.
Between K'nara and Ingrge their cleric opponent is looking more than a bit haggard.
Milo goes to release Prisoner 10 and finds that he is dead.
Bertram arrive to aid K'nara and Ingrge, huffing and puffing just a little bit.
Figment casts his bolt of lightening and it goes off without a hitch. Moments later though the entire cavern goes black and not a sound can be heard even to your own breathing.
Brother Bertram d20=18 Friday March 8th, 2002 8:49:28 PM
Bertram stops immediately as the darkness overtakes him, then remembers what he can about that hidden door that had opened. He then proceeds to crawl on the floor towards where he remembers that door to be, his axe out in front of him.
Lian Saturday March 9th, 2002 4:04:54 AM
(Before the lights went out>> Falin might have seen a male elf that stands about 5 feet tall, maybe about 100 pounds soaking wet. Lian has long blonde hair and is slender, but not noticably strong. Looks relatively young, between 150 and 160 years old. Lian is wearing light colored, warm looking clotheing. He carries no weapons at the moment, and is very graceful while he moves.)
Being close to the wall next to the tunnel opening, Lian moves at full movement (80 feet) away from the tunnel mouth, toward the position Milo dropped C7. Feeling the wall all the way with his left hand, he will continue to move. If he meets a live person in the room he will try to decern who it is and if they are hostile. When he reaches the cells in the back of the cavern he'll continue past them and try to find opening made by the woodelf in the wall. If he reaches the Web on the south side of the cavern, he knows he's gone too far. (OOC:If need, I'll roll a Save for the Web not to get stuck.
He'll shout as loud as he can for Milo and Bertram as he moves, but to no evail.
Falin Saturday March 9th, 2002 9:16:05 PM
(Very lithe male wood elf, Bright green eyes, with red hair shaved on the sides and kept relatively short on the top. Wearing all black (leather armor, leather gloves, and boots) with no symbols or markings. He is currently using a beautifully made short sword with a bow slung over his shoulder. He has a look in his eye of age beyond his years)
Falin will stop and look, evaluate the situation and look for possible targets.
"Elf maiden, friend or foe"
Olana Sunday March 10th, 2002 4:22:11 PM
"Friend or foe? That depends - if you're a friend to these nasty, torturing clerics - you're no friend of ours," she says to Falin.
She gasps as everything goes black.
"Please," she urges. "Help us get out of here."
Milo Sunday March 10th, 2002 6:42:22 PM
As the room goes dark, Milo freezes in space, a shudder running through his diminutive frame. Then, quickly pulling himself together, he prays, 'Alemi guide me. Let your holy presence light the way.' (OOC: Cast light.)
Figment (Improved Invis. [67 Rds left], Cats Grace +4, Mage Armor) Sunday March 10th, 2002 8:12:18 PM
The mage freezes a moment when things go dark and silent. Realizing it is futile to cast or try to use his wand - and knowing that it was something in the tunnel that cast the spells (or activated pre-designed spells) - he makes his way in an orderly fashion directly to the tunnel opening maybe 10' in front of him. He veers to the left a little to hit the side of it that Fluet was standing on. Once there he sticks his head into the opening above the grease spell and tries to determine if the silence and darkness spells are affecting the tunnel. His thinking is that whoever cast the spells would not do it on themselves. If he is able to see, he uses his wand and casts another web - once again igniting it for more damage to whatever is there - and perhaps breaking it's concentration on the spells in the chamber.
K'Nara d20+5=11 d20+8=9 d6+3=9 Monday March 11th, 2002 7:08:46 AM
K'Nara had barely a moment to recognize Mop and the Heirophant before the cavern went dark and silent. Was this a magic spell of some kind..? Logic dictated that it was so, but K'Nara's limited knowledge of spellcraft didn't seem to be able to identify the enchantment being used. (OOC: Spellcraft check is only 11.)
Oh, just great! she thought with a mental snort, then used her fighter's instinct to strike once more at the location of the cleric she and Ingrge had been fighting. (OOC: hits AC9 for 9hp damage--however, if that misses {which it probably does}, K'Nara possesses Blind-Fighting, so there's a chance she DOES hit the cleric.)
Falin Monday March 11th, 2002 5:47:14 PM
Falin sheathes his sword and readies his bow with an arrow. Then slowly he slides out of the alcove. He does not pick up his feet, but shuffles them so he will trip over something. After traveling just past where he thinks Olanna's position is, he stops and waits for the darkness and silence to end. He waits for a target.
DM Kent (Ingrge: Bull's Strength, Flying) d20=2 Monday March 11th, 2002 6:02:01 PM
Falin makes his way into the room as it goes dark and manages to get just past Olanna. When they both hear something scuffling along the floor coming toward them.
K'Nara does indeed miss even, with blind fighting.
Ingrge lifts back off the ground to get out of harm's way.
Lian makes it to the far side of the fire pit which is quite hot but showing no light.
Milo casts his spell and for a moment it seems like it is going to work. There is a small flicker of light, just a spark really and then it is extinguished, leaving it possibly darker than before.
Figment skicks his head around the corner and just in to the tunnel area but still can see or hear nothing.
....
DM Kent Monday March 11th, 2002 6:05:42 PM
As suddenly as there was silence, you abruptly hear a voice raised on high and echoing through the temple. Nothing else is heard but the voice. For some of you, the voice is familiar, to others not, but to those who oppose evil, it brings a sense of purpose.
"He who has ears, let him hear the words of Valdor, formerly known as the Dragonslayer, now known as the Dragonstone.
"My brothers and sisters of the Wold, it has been given to me to contact all of you, and I have thought long and hard before sending you all this message. My companions, the Gold Dragons of Plateau City, and I have witnessed a great many things recently that led us to send this message. These words I speak, I speak with knowledge and understanding. I am sure that you all have seen and heard many unbelievable things over the last few weeks and months. I know of no other way to say this, so listen carefully. My known and unknown friends, war is coming! A terrible war against the most powerful of opponents. The one known as Marteaus gathers his armies now and is preparing to strike at all of our lands and homes. No where on this Wold is safe or beyond his reach. There is no hole deep enough nor a cave dark enough to hide from him. He has assembled an army of hideous creatures to attempt to wipe us all out at once.
"It is time to fight. We must fight for our lives, our families, our lands and our Gods. This evil will not go away if we turn a blind eye to it. We have witnessed the horrible things Marteaus has done and the abominations he creates. He must be stopped and his army must be destroyed. We will be outnumbered and many will lose their lives in the coming war. But if we do not start now and fight, we will all die, and everything we know will be ground under his heel into dust. So it is time to stand for what we know is right and good, and strike. We must strike at his temples and Caeroldra's and Ga'al's as well, since they are the ones behind all of this. Whether you use stealth or strength of arm, these temples must be destroyed.
"Do not fear angering a god, as they have begun something they should not have. When the war starts, each of you will have to kill at least 50 of the evil army to have a chance. For myself, well, I've been around a bit longer than most, so I'll aim for 100. Each of you must look to strengthen the defenses in your own town and country. You must have your people ready to fight to the death, if necessary. We must strike the temples now! If we can scatter their followers or at least disorganize them, it will delay their plans and make them alter their plan of action against us. I am no assassin, but I am charged with bringing together an army to defeat what I have seen. Do not be afraid, for we have 15 ancient dragons on our side and all of the Dragon groups of good as well. We must find alliances with all who would protect against the evil Marteaus has brought upon us. Seek the Dwarves, the elves, the halflings, the minotaurs and liontaurs. We must have an army to fight back and you are all the best in the land.
"We are the only hope in this dark time, but as long as one single candle is lit, the darkness will flee from it. When we face the Dark Lord, I will ask him how he thought he could possibly win with orcs and goblins fighting his battles for him. Stand up now for all of the Wold, for the love of our fellow good beings and all that is right and just. There will be great rewards for all who fight and survive this war! I will know of your deeds and will honor you in front of all who live. Some of you may earn the title of Dragon, others may earn valuable weapons and armor, but all will earn honor.
"When the time comes we must gather for the final battle, so be prepared. We know not when nor where, but be ready. We will win this fight, by all the good Gods, I know we will. I am Valdor the Dragonstone, and I will not accept any other end. Stand tall and proud and fight to win. It begins..."
Valdor's last words are barely a whisper, but all can feel his anger, but with no hate. And his pride is evident, but not necessarily in himself as much as with everyone he's relaying the message to. His words ring complete truth to any who can feel such things, and there was no hesitancy at all. It is spoken with complete authority, but also as a plea. Again you hear his last words, "It begins...."
Brother Bertram Monday March 11th, 2002 8:18:35 PM
Bertram hears the words of the one called Valdor and listens with a growing sense of purpose as the words rings across the room. Gripping his axe, he stops and stands and starts back towards where he perceived the opening with the evil priests approaching. The slaying of fifty begins one evil cleric at a time....
Flueterflam Monday March 11th, 2002 8:50:13 PM
After Valdor's words, the bard shivers. His entire body seems shaken, yet proud. A single tear soars down his cheek. He does not wipe it away however. Flueterflam is proud of this chance. He stands up taller. He prepares.
Having caught a glimpse of the High Druid just before all went black, Fluet seizes his chance. The bard immediately moves over to Mohannin and determines if the druid is ok. "Are you ok? I am so sorry for this. Is there any way I can help you?"
Olana Monday March 11th, 2002 11:11:42 PM
Olana is still trying to get her bearings in the dark as the message hits home. "Valdor..." she whispers as it ends, his words settling her confusion.
"Over here," she says, staying in the same position, using her voice to guide the others. "There's a way out, over here. I hope."
Lian d20+14=30 Tuesday March 12th, 2002 12:02:22 AM
The young elf stops in mid-stride as he was heading out to escape. A tear rolls down his face and anger surges through his body, his slight form ripples with tension as he flexes his muscles. Still in the dark he, he tears the linen shirt from his back and begins to wrap pieces (and ties them off) of it around his forearms and waist. After do so, he begin back the direction he came from, back towards the tunnel mouth and the guards. His thoughts are, "These guards and clerics are about to get a rude awakening. THIS temple is going down. We are the Talons!" He knows in his heart NOW that these Gold Dragons are not just the acquaintances of K'nara, they are friends to all Woldians. He will no longer speak hastily of them. His thoughts then go to his parents and his Master in the forest. Then the vineyards. What do they know of the coming war? Are they already dead?
OOC: Listen check of 30. He is listening for ANY small or muffled sound, he even wants to feel for vibration in the floor for any movement close to him, but there is no skill for that. :)
Milo Tuesday March 12th, 2002 12:31:43 AM
Hearing the message, Milo thinks to himself, 'Boy do these Gold Dragon guys have lousy timing. I'm not in a position to sit here and listen to this Valdor guy ramble on about something I am already painfully aware of... standing here in a dark temple surrounded by clerics of Marteus, and Alemi knows what else.' Perturbed, even if enlightened, Milo immediately starts heading toward Olana's voice, thinking to himself, 'Now that is the sound of salvation.'
K'Nara d20+8=28 d20+8=18 d6+3=9 d6+3=5 Tuesday March 12th, 2002 7:04:10 AM
K'Nara blinked in surprise, instantly recognizing Valdor's distinctive voice for all that it had been almost a year since she'd seen him last. His message was something to be pondered later, however--right now there was an evil torturer that needed to be taken care of...
Concentrating fiercely on using her other senses--hearing and even smell--to try to pinpoint the cleric that she'd missed with her last blow, K'Nara's instinct for Blind-fighting told her that the evil priest was somewhere close by...there!
The scimitar whistled through the darkness at the human bladesinger's intended target, connecting solidly with...something.
(OOC: the first roll is a natural 20, and the second hits AC18. There is at least 9hp damage--a total of 14hp if the blow is a crit hit after taking away whatever penalties for the darkness in the cave.)
Figment Tuesday March 12th, 2002 11:17:37 AM
Hearing Valdor, the mage's face grow grim with determination to do whatever it takes to destroy this temple. Knowing that his spell casting is useless in this situation, he moves directly north and follows the wall around to the east to where the others must be - and that door he eard Olana say something about. He moves as quickly as he can.
Falin Tuesday March 12th, 2002 6:50:45 PM
Feeling a surge of energy and hope from Valdor's words Falin shouts. "There is a way from the room that is safe. Come this way, follow the sound of my voice."
He turns in Olana's direction, "Elf-maiden, enter the opening I just emerged from and set up some type of cover for those traversing the room. I will stay here and try to do the same."
Again Falin yells "Follow the sound of my voice..."
Ingrge d20+4=17 d20+4=19 Tuesday March 12th, 2002 6:57:56 PM
Focussing on the sound of the newcomer's voice, Ingrge flies slowly that way trying to avoid hitting the suspended cages and the wall. Somehow he manages to do both and soo finds the door.
DM Kent Tuesday March 12th, 2002 7:09:02 PM
Just seconds after Valdor's voice fades away Figment casts his spell and is rewarded withthe sense that it went off well, even though he cant see anything. Almost at the same time Figment hears the sounds of many soft voices and feet shuffling and cursing along, and then feels a palpable wash of evil roll over his body and into the cavern behind him.
Fluet does make it to the back are of the cavern but has yet to find Mohannin as it is still pitch balck and The Druid is moving himself.
Bertram and Liam are about halfway back to the tunnel.
K'Nara feels the satisfaction of a strike, she hears a light grunt and then a thump, though who or what she hit she doesn't truly know.
Milo makes it to the exit door.
Figment (Improved Invis. [65 Rnds left], Cats Grace +4, Mage Armor) Tuesday March 12th, 2002 11:58:23 PM
The mage smiles grimly, knowing he can't do anything more. He follows his previous idea of going north and then east along the top wall, hoping that whatever just entered cannot detect invisibility yet.
Milo d20+19=23 Wednesday March 13th, 2002 1:11:56 AM
Ducking into the exit as quickly and quietly as possible, Milo follows Olana away from this chamber of darkness and death. (OOC: Made a Move Silently check for moving at full speed at DC 23)
LIAN d20+14=19 Wednesday March 13th, 2002 1:54:49 AM
Not really intending to leave the guidance of the wall, Lian makes his way towards Milo and Olanas voices or movements.
"Milo, where are you! Olana! Anybody!" Lian moves slowly, avoiding the heat from the pit. He doesn't want to fall in. He stops to listen for anyone friendly.
OOC:Listening of 19.
Olana (Cats grace +5) d20+9=13 d20+1=11 d20+1=15 Wednesday March 13th, 2002 2:24:19 AM
Olana 'attempts' (DEX check 13) to make her way through the secret door, which should be right next to her. It was difficult in the dark, but she keeps on calling to the others so they know where it is.
In the meantime, she uses her other senses to warn her of any nearby potential dangers. (SPOT and LISTEN 11 and 15)
K'Nara d20=14 d20=2 d20=18 d20=4 d20=5 Wednesday March 13th, 2002 7:41:29 AM
With no more target to distract her, K'Nara felt her way to where she recalled Mop and the Hierophant were caged.
"Everyone follow Olana's voice--I'm trying to get these two out..!"
(OOC: Not sure what kinds of checks would have to be made, but I rolled d20 5 times in an effort to provide whatever may be needed.)
Flueterflam Wednesday March 13th, 2002 7:06:36 PM
Of course, forgetting that he wouldn't be able to find the High Druid in the darkness, Fluet calls out to him instead. "Mohannin, let me hear your voice, we need to get out of here, but I can't see you." The bard decides to stand still until he is sure he knows where to move to.
Falin d20+3=21 d20+13=23 d20+13=24 d20+8=20 d8+2=4 d8+2=3 d8+2=4 Thursday March 14th, 2002 8:57:21 AM
Falin continues to stand in an attempt to protect those that are supposed to be approaching. If he hears what sounds like a large group of people entering the room (LISTEN 21)he will fire in that direction (Hit AC's 23, 24, and 20 DMG respectively is 4,3,4).
DM kent 6d6(5+5+6+6+5+4)=31 Thursday March 14th, 2002 7:48:41 PM
As everyone makes it to the exit in some fashion or other the lights come on in the room and at the other end of the cavern you see what has to be at least 50 pissed guards streaming into the room. several slip and fall on the grease but the ones behind them just keep coming using the fallen guards for traction.
Falin's arrows find there mark in a guard and he falls to the floor. Ingrge ushers you all further into the passage and then turns to face the cavern and starts casting. figment recognizes the hand movements for lightening bolt and watches as Ingrges Bolt flies into the room. (reflex DC 17)
Falin Thursday March 14th, 2002 9:25:51 PM
Falin calmly states "Is there some way to block the door? We can go back down this corridor. After about 300 ft you will be able to go left or forward. To the left is a dead end, that is where I came from. I do not know what is forward, but I am certain it is better than what lies behind you. If I can have one that is skilled in the blade follow with me to take care of any hostiles it would be appreciated. Now run."
Olana Friday March 15th, 2002 1:33:04 AM
The elf calls out to K'Nara - "If you can get the ones we came to rescue out - I'll cover with my bow along with the mages."
She's hoping that K'Nara heard what Falin said about the passage. Then she waits, ready to fire after Figment and Ingrge have done their stuff.
K'Nara d20-1=17 d20+3=23 d20+3=14 d20=16 Friday March 15th, 2002 6:33:05 AM
(OOC: we can see now? I hope so!)
K'Nara attempts to find the fastest way to release Mop and the Heirophant (spot check 17)--whether it be breaking open the doors to the cages (OOC: woot! Natural 20!), or spotting a set of keys (OOC: rolled 14 to grab them...IF they exist) nearby or something like that (OOC: miscellaneous roll result of 16). K'Nara's concentration will be centered on getting Mop & the Heirophant out of their cages and over to where Olana and Falin are (that new secret entrance/exit that I just know everyone will have to try to make a run for.)
Lian Friday March 15th, 2002 7:16:31 AM
"Oh, look... victums. The first dozen or so!" The young elf clinches his fists and looks ready for battle. He stands as a final defense, waiting for the last person to exit, then plans to leave with them.
OOC: Totally Defensive, AC 24.
Milo d20+19=28 Friday March 15th, 2002 10:01:47 AM
Milo looks perturbed at his friends and his tone betrays his anger, "You can't all go last!" Turning the halfling sets his resolve, "Very well then, I'm leading the way." He is clearly upset as he heads off into the darkness, holding his short sword with the light spell on it aloft so that he may see. He moves as quietly as he can, keeping his elven cloak wrapped around him. (OOC: Made a Move Silently check at -5 for moving full speed at DC 28).
Figment (Improved Invis. [64 Rnds left], Cats Grace +4, Mage Armor) Friday March 15th, 2002 12:46:31 PM
The invisible mage clears his throat at the others. "Excuse me, but I can slow them down in a big way. Back away from the tunnel entrance about 60' quickly - and don't worry if some of them enter behind you! Ingrge, do you have another web?". If Ingrge can web the tunnel he lets him, if not he waits until everyone is clear and the uses another precious charge of his web wand. "We can burn them again if need be. I have more I can use if necessary. Lets escape while we can and come back later to destroy this place.".
Figment d20=15 Friday March 15th, 2002 12:51:07 PM
Note: If Ingrge casts the web then the mage casts Summon Swarm on the webbed guards. Poisonous spiders come out from all over and begin to crawl on the guards that enter the hall and bite them... :)
Ingrge Friday March 15th, 2002 6:06:34 PM
Nodding in satisfaction as his lightening bolt goes off without a hitch, He aknowledges Figment. I am sorry but I have already cast my web for the day. I was actually thinking I could bring this end of the passage down with a couple of fireballs after everyone had gone on.
Brother Bertram Friday March 15th, 2002 9:25:56 PM
Seeing the onrush of guards, Bertram decides that he shouldnt kill 50 at ONCE so he continues backing towards the doorway. His axe is out, and ready to take on as many as it takes to get the others to safety.
Flueterflam Friday March 15th, 2002 9:58:46 PM
The bard assists K'Nara with helping Mop and Mohannin get out of the cavern and into the hidden passage. He hurries with them as quickly as possible to get out of the caster's way.
DM kent Friday March 15th, 2002 10:03:34 PM
(ooc. When a final deision is made on what you are going to do I will post what happens as you leave. Right now I'm gonna move on.)
The group hustles down the passage and bears right where Falin suggests that they do so. The paasage seems to be descending at a rate of a few feet per fofty and then levels out at what bertram can tell you is about 140 ft below surface level. The path winds about, very dark and dank and every now and then you stumble accross a very long dead corpse in an unanimated skeletal form. Eventually the path starts ascending all be it a bit more slowly than it went down. And it eventually ends in a wooden trap door at the top of a eight-foot ladder. The assorted checks are made, the trap door is opened without any incident, and the party finds itself in the feed room of a stable.
Figment Friday March 15th, 2002 11:16:37 PM
The mage nods to Ingrge. "Your idea sounds good. I'll hold off my web and use it as a backup.". He fires his web only if Ingrge doesn't bring down the passage as intended.
Lian d20+11=21 d20+14=28 d20+6=20 Friday March 15th, 2002 11:35:40 PM
Lian trudges on down the passage.
OOC: He moves quietly, listens and looks around on the way down, 21 move silently, 28 listening, 20 spot.
Flueterflam Saturday March 16th, 2002 3:46:10 AM
Stating the obvious after travelling through the tunnels, Fluet states, "Bit strange don't ya think? I mean this big operation taking place, and a long tunnel leading to a stable. Sometimes I wonder if this is a cruel joke."
Falin Saturday March 16th, 2002 8:24:57 PM
Seeing as how the mages can better insure the groups safety Falin turns and heads down the corridor all the way down to the trap door in the stable floor (periodically looking over his shoulder looking for targets).
Milo d20+19=21 d20+23=26 Saturday March 16th, 2002 9:09:24 PM
Seeing where the tunnel ends, Milo turns to whomever followed and whispers, "Okay, beyond this hatch is an ordinary stable... I'm thinking there will also be an inn or farmhouse as well; a nice false front. Either way, it is better to be as inconspicuous as possible." Turning back toward the trap door, Milo emerges into the stables in full sneaky mode. (OOC: Made my Move Silently and Hide checks at DCs 21 and 23 respectively; moving at full speed)
Brother Bertram Sunday March 17th, 2002 9:40:08 PM
Bertram follows along bringing up the rear guarding the retreat. He is careful to close the secret door as they leave the temple, in case the evil ones didnt know that the door exists.
Olana d20+8=17 Monday March 18th, 2002 1:06:33 PM
Hearing the discussion between to the two mages, the elf realises its "really" time to get the heck out of there. She helps K'Nara with the rescued prisoners while they travel, only stopping to examine the corpse. She searches and tries to determine cause of death, anything that might hint of danger up ahead for the group, even though its been dead a long while. ((SEARCH DC 17))
As they reach the stable, what Fluet says makes her smile.
DM kent Monday March 18th, 2002 6:14:11 PM
Having escaped from the temple with their lives and the priest's prisoners (Mop and the Hierophant), the Talons and Falin make their way to a hidden spot that the Hierophant knows about in town where they find several members of the Tines, including "RED". Once there the Talons hear all the news, including that Marteus' Army is only days away from the Emerald City.
At this time they get the chance to look at the papers they found. The Hierophant shows great interest in the papers and tells them that they are elven in origin, but predate Parnoth and even the Emerald Kingdom. A story ensues, where he tells the Talons of the elves of old, the cities to the North of Parnoth's reign and of the old watchtowers and how elves stood watch at the Tower of Saryd even after the disappearance of the cities and never left the tower. Rumors and old wives' tales suggest that they still stand watch there for incursions by the lesser races. "The Watchers" are often used by parents, of all races, to scare their children (similar to the bogey man).
At this point, Mop chimes in with something cryptic about Parnoth having hidden something powerful there that could possibly be used against The Dark Lord, but he was afraid or unable to use himself, which is why Marteaus attacked Parnoth and why Parnoth has left the kingdom. As night comes and the small group swells as other tine members and their families make their way to this place of safety, cooking fires are set up in an open air communal kitchen. Food is served, and the Talons finally drift off to get some well needed rest.
As you all fall asleep you begin to dream. You dream of the Emerald Kingdom as it used to be, splendorous and wild. Ruled by the elves, beings and nature living in balance. The land thankful for the people's protection and the people thankful for the land providing. You dream the dream of peace and prosperity. Then a dark cloud hovers over the lad, a cloud with glowing green eyes, a cloud that reshapes the land and takes away the people. The cloud grows claws and the claws rip into the earth causing great bleeding gashes. Out of these gashes the great green claws pull gold and gems. Out pours all of the kingdom's wealth and fortune, and then the claws scrape dust over the kingdom's wounds, not in order to heal them, but to hide them. Finally, you see a man coming out of the north. Those of you who are "Tines" don't even have to see him. He is "The Chosen One", the one for whom you watch. He smiles and the light from it melts the claws. He laughs and the cloud is blown away. He cries, and where his tears fall the land is healed. Next you see "The Chosen One" climbing down from an old tower, with something in his arms. He stretches his arms out to you in a warm embrace and . . . his chest explodes outward in a burst of blood, A bright orange blade where his heart used to be. A peal of the Dark Lord's laughter is heard. You awake.
Milo Tuesday March 19th, 2002 12:06:57 AM
Waking from this nightmare, Milo spends the wee hours of the morning in prayer and meditation, hoping to glean whatever insight he may from silent communion with Alemi.
Lian Tuesday March 19th, 2002 1:47:42 AM
Waking from the elven trance, Lian just sits staring in contemplation of the dream. He ponders returning back to the temple to begin the process Valdor assigned, the 50 dead clerics.
Figment Tuesday March 19th, 2002 1:03:43 PM
Relieved to be out of the temple, the mage enjoys his meal and sleep. That is until Martaeus ends it with his vision. After regaining his senses he joins the others at the fire, taking time to brew some fine gourmet coffee and cook some fine food - at least as good as it can be under the circumstances for the others. After a good meal he rememorizes his spells and prepares for another day of battle. During this whole process, an exceedingly troubling thought comes over the mage which he decides to share with the others once all his preparations are done. "I am troubled by something: The fact that this temple was able to capture a Heirophant Druid. How did this happen? I wouldn't have thought it possible to get you, much less hold you. How? Are these guys really that powerful?".
K'Nara Tuesday March 19th, 2002 7:42:20 PM
After narrowly escaping the cave with Mop and the Heirophant, K'Nara was unusually silent. She ate and went to bed as soon as possible, then was rudely awakened by that dream.
The Chosen One...the sudden thrust of that orange blade...damnation, it was like the dream she and the original Talons had when they'd first journeyed together as a group. This one was no more insightful (not to her, anyway) than the other had been--and yet, why did she get the feeling that she was missing out on an obvious clue..?
Oh, well--she couldn't go back to sleep anyhow, so K'Nara decided to start her pre-dawn bladesinger exercises now. She tried to contact Greymalk through her earclip, and met with naught but silence...again.
"Stay safe, my friend and master." the human bladesinger bid over the magical connection, then broke off the communication to begin her routine of whirling, graceful maneuvers that were the trademark of the bladesinger, not stopping until the sun was clear of the eastern horizon.
She took the time to attend to her personal toilette and was about to see what breakfast would be when she spotted Figment as he went to join the others by the fire. She stepped up to him and put a solid hand on his shoulder, the expression on her face rather stony.
"Mage," K'Nara said softly but with a tone that revealed determination, "We have unfinished business, you and I. We must settle my issue with your behavior regarding those cleric prisoners...and we must settle it now."
(OOC: K'Nara would prefer to talk to Figment without having the others hear the discussion, though--so if you'd care to respond in email, David? 8D)
Flueterflam d20+11=27 Tuesday March 19th, 2002 7:56:56 PM
The bard wakes in a cold sweat. He is visibly shaking, but does not speak. He sits quietly with his eyes closed for a good 10-20 minutes. Then he jumps up and kicks his feet together and throws a huge smile on his face. He does a little dance in front of everyone and makes sure that they all notice him.
"Ok, so my dream's an omen. So it predicted some bad crap. Come one though, you don't think that a petty god can triumph over the Talons, do ya? Well, I for one don't. I know you all hope. You all fear. We all do sometimes. It makes you feel small, helpless. HEAR THIS!! I am NOT small. I am NOT weak. I will take on this army by myself. I will conquer this god myself. If I must fight alone, I will share my love with all the people I save and help."
The bard twirls himself around Mohannin and grins almost evilly. (continuous Perform DC 27, meant for the Talons and friends) Fluet slyly moves towards Mop and hits the guy on the back hard. "MOP!!! Are they really powerful? Nahhh, I doubt it. You gonna help us Mop? I thought so." He grins at the little bugger and continues on talking to the others.
"How serious do you really want to be? I mean, we can die fight and serious, unhappy. OR, we can fight PROUD, fight HAPPY, fight for a reason." With a final breath, the bard whispers in a sharp hiss, "There is a purpose. There is a reason. We will win. But, we will lose if we let petty premonitions bother us and sway us. This is a battle of wills. And mine will conquer even this god."
Figment Tuesday March 19th, 2002 8:31:44 PM
The mage sighs and turns to the bladesinger. "I agree K'Nara. We cannot afford to have something like this unfinished and unresolved and then hope to be effective in the coming days. I appreciate your sensitivity to doing this in private, but it does directly affect all who are here. I think it best to do this openly - if that's OK with you. You have a problem with my dealing with evil in such an - absolute and unmerciful way. Speak your mind and I will see if I can respond to you.". He waits for the bladesinger's response by the fire, not moving away unless she insists.
OOC: I expect this occurs sometime after he rememorizes spells. Most should be around the area. I'll assume the one post per day does not apply to save time. I'll doublecheck later this evening to see if K'Nara responds and will continue to handle this "Outside the time continuum" until complete - and assume this conversation is concluded prior to tomorrows DM post in the timeline.
Figment, cont. Tuesday March 19th, 2002 8:34:13 PM
Donna, email me at gareth-3@juno.com, gareth-3@sbcglobal.net tonight, and dhott@nortelnetworks.com in the morning if you decide this goes offline. deh
Brother Bertram Tuesday March 19th, 2002 9:11:39 PM
Bertram sits, going through his now pointless devotions, then begins sharpening his ever-present axe, listening to what the Talons decide. His course is set after his dream from the night before, but he waits to see what the others decide.
Ingrge Tuesday March 19th, 2002 9:11:58 PM
Coming out of his resting trance, Ingrge is visibly more tired looking than you have seen him in a while. Studying his spells, he seems determined about something.
Olana Tuesday March 19th, 2002 9:22:38 PM
Olana's hands tremble as she sips some of Figment's wonderful coffee. Fluet looked to have gone over the edge, and the others seemed very subdued. And no wonder. She found herself having a quiet sob. Everything was going wrong, and Marteus seemed to be at the centre of it.
((OOC - NOOOOOO!! K'Nara and Figment - we wanna hear it! Please! LOL))
Falin Tuesday March 19th, 2002 9:48:36 PM
Falin awakes with a startled look on his face. He looks around and realizes that everyone else had the same dream as he. Falin says "It would seem that fate has placed us on the same path and is now trying to speak to us through dreams. This is indeed a great sign and I ask that I may continue to acompany you." He bows respectfully bows before the group at the end of his request.
DM kent Tuesday March 19th, 2002 9:49:05 PM
Mohannin wakes looking much better than he did the previous night although he doesn't seem really focused as yet and there are several large bruises along the side of his face. As he approaches the fire he looks around at all of you and then as if he just heard Figment's question, he turns and cryptically says, "Even the smallest wren has power in large groups. And unfortunately even the powerful are sometimes caught unaware."
After breakfast the Heirophant takes the time to heal any in the compound that need healing, including any Talons who need aid.
At noon a teenager comes runneing into the compound with news that the Temple priests are rounding up anyone they can and herding them into the temple, and that there is an huge army less than two days walk from the City and that the army is killing any who they come across.
(OOC you all have until thursday post to finish any business, and decide what you all are to do. I lift the single post rule till them. I will post as i can to answer things as they come up.)
Olana Tuesday March 19th, 2002 10:17:58 PM
A little while later, Olana pushes her troubles away, walks over to Falin and gives him a dazzling smile. "So, whats your name, and where do you come from?" she asks.
"My name is Olana, and I'm a Culverwood ranger, from a tribe just north of the Emerald City. The other elves are Lian, who can fight with his hands - isnt that wonderful? he meditates a lot, And Ingrge. Ingrge's a mage, and a brilliant one too. He's stronger than he looks, and rather wild. The dwarf is Bertram." ::whispering:: "He's very, very nice. He was a priest of Domi, wasn't that sad what happened? Anyway - that's Milo praying over there, he's cute and makes us all smile while curing our ills, and er... Fluet is our bard. He's cute too and has a different perspective on life sometimes. As for those two talking over there - the man is Figment,he's a mage, he can be quite dangerous if you get in the way, so you mustn't get in the way, he's very cultured, and makes the best food ever. The lady is K'Nara. She's our leader and a fine warrior. It's K'Nara that keeps us together when things get tough. ::whispering again:: She's a bladesinger, an art forbidden to humans theoretically, but she does it so well, and had tuition from the best."
She gets through all that without taking a breath, and then smiles brightly, waiting to hear what Falin has to say.
As the messenger arrives with news of the approaching army, the elf says - "Well, we can't take them all on, but Valdor said we had to kill as many evil priests as we can, so maybe we should keep ahead of them, kill what we can on the run, then go and look for that Tower."
Milo d20+10=18 Tuesday March 19th, 2002 11:00:25 PM
Getting up from his prayer and meditation, Milo strides over to where Olana and Falin are and bows briefly, "Greetings, I'm Milo Thistledown, at your service." Then a bit more quietly, "I suppose with Domi currently out of the picture, I'm what passes for clergy around here... and that means only one thing... we're in big trouble." The halfling grins up at the elf, and then adds in a comical tone, "Since we're tossing around names and descriptions... This very pretty elf with amazing lung capacity is Olana..." Milo blows Olana a kiss, and then pirouettes across the room to stand next to Flueterflam. (OOC: Made a tumble check at DC 18)
Lian Tuesday March 19th, 2002 11:18:17 PM
Not having joined his dwarven friend in talk and conversation in a very long time (it seems to be a long time), Lian walks over to Bertram and places a slender hand on his friends shoulder. "Friend Bertram, I so wish we had stayed to destroy those guards and clerics back at the temple. I will go into death knowing I was meant to do something, I knew as I was leaving home that I was leaving for a reason. And here it is, for Domi and the Wold! And for all who worship Domi my Friend Bertram! For you." The young elf sniffs back a tear, then whispers very quietly, "What of this new one, he showed up just as we needed to get out of a hot spot. I find that kind of 'odd', do you? I for one do not trust him. Maybe we should test him. Perhaps he worships the... Dark One?" Lian looks around to be sure no one other than Bertram is listening. When he's satisfied that no one has snooped, he turns back to Bertram. "Uh oh, I think Figs getting a whippen. I can not believe he killed those people in cold blood. At least I was discussing doing it. That reminds me, where did those nasty daggers go?" Thinking to himself,'I hope Milo does not kill this new one for looking at Olana like that.'
Falin Wednesday March 20th, 2002 6:40:22 AM
Falin gets a distant look in his eye as he begins, "Elf-maiden Olana, my name is Falin. I too was once from Culverwood, but my life was destroyed many decades ago by Parnoth and I left in search of knowledge. Now after 70 years I have returned to reclaim the three points of the silversage star that he stole from me and to return the Emerald kingdom to its original state. In my travels I have visited many placed throghout the wold and as my art I have not chosen the blade, but the bow. I have been told that I am an exceptional archer so that is what I bring to the group as well as a hatred for all things evil and oppresive." With that he seems to return to the present and tries to smile, but it is a very awkward attempt. Much like it is his first time.
Falin Wednesday March 20th, 2002 6:43:50 AM
When the messenger arrives Falin will speak up, "Mayhaps we should discover the identity of the army first. If the people in the temple are gathering everyone before the army arrives maybe they are enemies of this army. If that is the case we can make contact with the army and let them know as they attack from the front we can go back dow the passage and attack from behind." Falin pauses, "Either way I say we begin our slaying of the priests by going back down into the passage and killing with suprise on our side. I do not think they will be worrying about the passage right now. They seem to be to busy "recruiting" individuals."
K'Nara Wednesday March 20th, 2002 7:54:00 AM
The bladesinger's head nodded once, then she spoke:
"Figment, I do NOT object to dealing with evil in--as you say--'an absolute and unmerciful way'...however, there is a code of honor that should be adhered to, besides the obvious tenets of the chain of command. Honor demands that nobody--NOBODY slays an opponent unless it is in the heat of battle. Those clerics were bound, gagged and blindfolded--completely unable to defend themselves and NO threat to us in their state at that time. Thus it was that I determined that leaving them in that state would have served our purpose. You, however, contradicted my orders, not only dishonoring us with your intentions, but also challenging my authority as the acknowledged leader of the Talons." K'Nara rubbed her chin, looking very tired and years older than her two decades of living.
"I did not ask for the mantle of leadership, Figment," she said firmly, "I was conferred that honor by you and rest of the Talons. I have led to the best of my ability, keeping in mind that I do not possess your intelligence, nor the wisdom of Shadrach, whom was lost to us while I could do nothing about it." The redheaded warrior woman bites off the word "nothing" with a lot of anger--apparently it's a wound that still rankles.
"However, I still believe that, since I am the leader of the Talons, whenever I give an order, it should be obeyed." K'Nara goes on, adding: "Unless, of course, you believe that you can lead the group better than I can--an opinion that your actions towards our prisoners leads me to believe." Her hazel eyes regard Figment with intensity.
"So, mage--do you want to lead the Talons yourself or not?"
Figment Wednesday March 20th, 2002 9:57:42 AM
The mage listens intently to the warrior woman as she speaks. He even refrains from scoffing too loudly at the notion of him leading the Talons. When she finishes he pauses and then responds. "I have several things to say all of which need to be said first... I wish to IMMEDIATELY dispel any thoughts that I would be interested in leading the Talons - nor do I imagine anyone here would prefer me the leader to you. Also, I wish to point out that even in the heat of the moment I never implied or suggested in any way that you were not the correct choice for leading this group. You have done a far better job than I could have and I wish to re-acknowledge that I recognize you as such. So I implore you to get that language out of the conversation before we address anything else. Secondly, please remember that I did not, in fact, kill those priests. They were already dead when I got to them - and it is yet to be determined how they died. I suspect somebody killed them and warned the temple we were coming. Frankly I'm suprised we did so well with our rescue attempt. Also, you did not actually 'order' we not kill the priests. You were indecisive, saying something '...we SHOULD'NT kill them, wouldn't be right...'. You were struggling with what we needed to do. I decided the Talons could not afford time to either debate the issue, or to leave agents of the enemy alive. So I acted instead of waiting - which I honestly believe may have improved our chances in the raid. I apologize for this. Seems this is the point you have the most trouble with. I will in the future refrain from 'helping' you with your orders. But do not expect me to be hesitant. In battle or in action I will act as I think best for the party at any given time as I always have - and has everyone else. And I have a request of you, but I'll ask it in a moment. Now, as to the code you speak of. Tell me, do you think the people who were being tortured on those racks care about this code? How about the people currently being rounded up and put to death? Here is the point I am trying to make: In normal circumstances I generaly would agree with you. Killing one who is helpless is generally at least cowardly and probably evil. But as you know, this is war. If you leave an enemy alive in your wake on his own recognisence, you just sentenced an ally to death. The evil person will fight again another day and kill your friends - or those you have taken an oath to protect. I view the killing of these priests as little more than killing a rabid dog. It is something that must be done no matter how it appears. Else you leave those you have sworn to protect at risk. Furthermore, we are agents of the state and as such are authorized to deal out justice. Is it unjust for an evil person, sentenced to death by the magistrate to be bound and then hung? They too are helpless - or are we to turn them loose, arm them, and 'give them a fighting chance'? I think not. In our case, we are the magistrates. We MUST execute these people - helpless or not. They are guilty of murder and the sentence for murder has always been death. And now my request: Please do not ask me to violate my oath to this group or to this land by asking me to stay my hand. That puts me in a very compromising position. And this brings me to one last point that you need to wrestle with on your own. You made the same promises I made. If you were to have not killed these priests in the name of your fighting code you too will have violated your oaths. I am not accusing you for I too am not perfect, but before you are faced with this situation again I would recommend you decide how you will handle this. Otherwise it could hurt your - and the groups - chances of survival in the future. Something I know you would never willingly do."
K'Nara Wednesday March 20th, 2002 6:27:44 PM
K'Nara considers VERY carefully exactly what Figment has said.
"You're wrong." she counters in a firm voice. "You didn't listen to what I said, both at the time we had those prisoners in our power and just now, so I will remind you of what happened in both instances..."
(OOC: the following is exerpted directly from the Archives to clarify exactly what was said and done by whom and when at the time the Talons captured those Dark Lord clerics:)
Milo thinks for a moment and then looking up at Olana with a serious look on his face, "I'll just check those ropes," crouching behind each one of the unconscious priests, Milo seems to be praying in a whisper as he fiddles with something behind each of Marteaus' priest's backs, and then moves to the next, until he has attended to each priest.
~~~~~
"Blindfold them as well." K'Nara ordered as the evil clerics were secured. "However, we won't kill them now that we've captured them. Wouldn't be right."
~~~~~~
The mage frowns and then gapes at K'Nara's pronouncement, completely disagreeing. Knowing her disposition, he decides to act instead of talk. He grimly pulls out his dagger and cuts their miserable throats without hesitation.
"I didn't hesitate or stop to think about anything until after I said we would not kill the priests...who were unconscious at the time as well." K'Nara reminded Figment. "And I also never accused you of killing them--but of intending to kill them while they were helpless. There is a slight difference between the two." The tall woman drew in a breath and expelled it before going on.
"You have points, Figment--you always do." Here K'Nara's lips twist slightly in a rather self-deprecating way. "You are the master of debate. All I have to fall back on is what is Good--in the sense of 'that which is NOT evil.' I still think it is Evil to WANT to kill helpless people, regardless of the morality of those people...and I do NOT regard the Talons' forced servitude to Parnoth as entitling any of us to be judge, jury or--especially--executioner. It would make the Talons as bad as the Green One's other agents--like the Obsidian, for instance. Remember them, Figment? Remember how they, too, were clearly authorized by Parnoth to get rid of those he deemed 'enemies of the Emerald Kingdom'? What's the difference between the Obsidian slaughtering elves in the Culverwood and us slitting the throats of unconscious and bound-up clerics for that would-be god? Tell me that if you can!"
Brother Bertram Wednesday March 20th, 2002 8:30:11 PM
Bertram listens to the exchange between Figment and K'nara as Lian shares his thoughts on Falin. Patting Lian on the shoulder, Bertram whispers to him. "It was convenient, and worth keeping an eye on but he seems innocent enough, but we shall be alert. Now excuse me for a moment. Rising wearily Bertram addresses K'nara and Figment. "I think I heard all of those excuses for killing just after the Dark Lord overthrew Domi, Friend Figment. Perhaps next you will be kind enough to let us know who you deem to be evil and who is okay to keep alive? Who knows? The Dark Lord might still be hiring if you continue with these views. While it may be expedient and much, much easier for us to kill captured prisoners, mercy and compassion are the things that separate us from the Dark Ones and I will have nothing do with such practices. I admire your spirit Friend Figment but you need a change in the way you view the rest of the world. I pray you see this error before it is too late. Now enough of tired old Dwarf's rambling. I have said enough to last a lifetime. I am going for a walk." Bertram curiously drops his axe on the ground and turns away from the group and starts treading away from the group, head down, and heart heavy.
Figment Thursday March 21st, 2002 12:16:29 AM
The mage pauses and listens carefully to K'nara's and Bertram's words. He then says quietly "The Heart of the True Woldian God is Black and will soon eclipse the Light.... These people have declaired war on good. They have pledged alegiance to the one who killed Domi. They round up and then torture and murder the citizens of the land we swore to protect. And by the way, we took our oath to the government that took power AFTER Parnoth left. We are not the lizards' lackeys. Far from it. Remember the ones who asked us to mediate the Hands of Love? It is them we work for - and as far as I can see they are the true government of this state - if the priests you think I should show mercy to haven't killed them already. I did not say I enjoyed killing or WANTED to kill helpless people. I said I was OBLIGATED to kill the ones who have declared themselves enemies of the state. I imagine that the Obsidian Order would be on their hit list too for the reasons you so clearly state. You have never seen me kill anyone in cold blood before - or intend to - until after the war started. Please understand I am speaking of an isolated time in an isolated instance. In most any other situation I agree with you completely. And Bertram, my compassion is for those we are to protect. I do not see how showing mercy to an evil cleric who is rounding up citizens and killing them - and as a result of that mercy they are allowed to go free and continue to kill - is an act of good. It is an act of evil I say, and the blood of all they kill after you let them go is on your hands! The three priests in question were evil. Their intent was clear - as was our duty. Look around you. These people would be dead and many like them are about to be if we do not do something.". After a moment the mage concludes his thoughts "K'Nara, I will follow your orders as I always have, and I will refrain from taking such an extreme action in the future - provided it does not endanger the lives of the innocent. That is as far as I can go. I pray it far enough... And Bertram, your words are as welcome to me as any. Please offer them any time you want.".
During the rehash of events (i.e. archive quotes), the mage relizes something about the fate of the 3 priests, but he keeps it to himself - for now.
When the conversation turns to the current threats, the mage offers "I think our first order of business should be to destroy the Temple, free the captives, and erradicate the clerics from the area. Then we can see to preparing for the marching army. At least, that's what I think we should do. Falin, this is the Dark Lord's army that is coming. We knew of them before we left for Titania. And with Valdor's plea, it looks like we need to raise a force if we can and oppose them.".
Olana Thursday March 21st, 2002 12:58:17 AM
"Figment,"says the elf quietly with fear in her eyes. "I don't want to go against what Valdor said, but if that army arrives while we're still here then we're dead. We'll never survive. I don't want to die needlessly, not if I can help it. Not while there's a chance to do something purposeful. "It might sound silly, but dreams mean a lot to me. I saw The Chosen One, and an orange blade. Mop said there was something Parnoth hid - something Marteus was perhaps afraid of. Perhaps there's a connection. What if we could find it? What if we could wield it - and cause some real damage?" Aware that she was possibly speaking out of turn, and that maybe none of the others had dreamed anything like that. She stopped and blushed. Instead she walked over to Mop and started to shake him. "Where is it? Come on, This is your life too. What did Parnoth hide, and where is it?"
Lian d20+4=7 Thursday March 21st, 2002 1:22:23 AM
"Friend Figment, I do not think comparing sick animals to the clerics are the same thing. A rabid dog may be cared for and healed eventually, these clerics are just sick and need to be healed. So we have to send them to meet THEIR Black God so they can be'healed'. By killing them in battle, they are not defenseless so..." The young elf trails off as he watchs Bertram drop his axe and wonder off. "... excuse for one moment Friends!" Lian picks up Bertrams axe, stumbling slightly realizing that it's quite a bit heavier than it looks. "Bertram!" He wonders behind Bertram, catching up and returning his axe. "Friend Bertram, where are you headed. Not off to that temple I hope!?" OOC:Sensing Motive and body why might Bertram be wandering off without his prized axe? Check of 7, darn it.
Milo Thursday March 21st, 2002 2:57:14 AM
Milo is strangely quiet during K'nara's and Figment's debate. He offers neither side the assistance of his thoughts or council, and is attentive all the same. However, when Olana speaks, he replies, "I agree, perhaps there is a weapon worth wielding there. Let us consider the facts my friends. There is an army not two days from here. We have struck our blow against this temple, though I do not want to be caught in an attempt to do so again when reinforcements arrive. We caught them by surprise once, now they'll be on their guard. Let them guard, I say, while we seek out this weapon or whatever it is, and put it to use." That said, Milo resumes his silence, an odd look of seriousness coming over the halfling.
K'Nara Thursday March 21st, 2002 6:33:21 AM
"I'm not going to debate what you, personally, consider to be evil." K'Nara responded to Figment. "Such things are always up to the individual, anyhow. Now that you've said that you WILL follow orders, I will be...content with that." The human bladesinger turned to Bertram and Lian.
"Thank you for your support." she said sincerely. "I appreciate it." K'Nara then concentrated on the rest of what was happening.
"Olana is right," the cauled female fighter said with a nod, "Mop--what information have you of this...item that may help us against the Dark Lord?"
Lian Thursday March 21st, 2002 8:13:35 AM
OOC: Bertram, if you like, we can chat outside posting in email about why your wandering. :)
Figment Thursday March 21st, 2002 9:49:03 AM
"As far as slowing down the army and hurting the temple goes: You seem to forget we have a Heirophant Druid with us, whose forest is being trampled by an army. He by himself would be most effective in hurting them severely and slowing them down. And he has a vested interest to do so - though I would not be so bold as to plan Mohannin's actions for him as he's perfectly capable of doing it himself! Also, I agree we should explore this dream and it's logical conclusion. But we SWORE to protect those who are being rounded up - and we have resources with us. If we can get in the temple and destroy them - and free those taken - maybe we can round up everyone and get them away from the city as we head for the towers? It is clearly a death sentence if we leave them in the temple. And think how the army would be demoralized if they showed up and their temple is destroyed? We have 2 days to get out. Surely we can take those innicents with us - or at least set them on their way and give them a fighting chance. What do you think Mohannin? Mop? Can we do something or must we pull out and leave them to die?".
Falin Thursday March 21st, 2002 10:00:33 AM
After listening to all of the conversation going around Falin walks to what he belives is the center of everyone and offers his opinion," Thank you Figment for letting me know about the Dark Lords army, it has made my choice clear. I can not stand by and watch those people being taken into the temple to be tortured. To face the fate I was now just moments from myself and to face the same anguish I felt many years ago. If we have two days to get in and save those people then I say we have all the time in the world. We can procede down through the passage again and into the torture room. We destroy the temple from the inside out and we rush the townspeople back out through the passage towards safety as Figment has mentioned." After speaking Falin looks with eyes full of determination. He looks to go whether or not the group does.
Brother Bertram Thursday March 21st, 2002 3:20:06 PM
Bertram listens to Figment and K'nara reply as he walks away but says nothing, and continues walking. As Lian approaches he smiles wearily, "Well I never thought I would still be preaching Friend Lian" His banter is light but there is no humor in his words and then he realizes that Lian is struggling, holding his axe. "I will take that from you. We should each bear our own burdens after all." I thank you for your friendship, Lian, I am blessed by the friends I have met here. I am torn. I feel I need to remain and save these poor defenseless souls, but yet what good is it to save a few and lose the world? My heart is heavy."
Lian Thursday March 21st, 2002 7:20:00 PM
The young elf sits down on a nearby stone and replys to his friends woes. "Friend Bertram, I thank you for taking that from me, it is quite heavy, apparently like that burden you carry. I also have a burden, Friend Bertram. I was taught that combat or war was the final act of desperate men, which Hei Tu Zxioung said, was generally caused for one of two reasons. First, and the most common reason, is pride. Pride of ones acts, property, or beliefs. Second, and most foolish, is revenge. The Avenger has hate clouding judgement, so his Voice of Reason is rarely heard. This can get him or her killed, or what is worse, can get loved ones killed." "I watch the entire group of Talons bicker among themselves about their personal beliefs and morals, ethics, what-have-you. And they seem to be missing the point. K'nara is dealing with Figs insistance to do what HE may to win the war in the name of the Wold. Milo, well Milo is Milo and we have to give him some leaway, he is quite dangerous. It is always the quiet, excitable ones that worry me. I was quiet. But I am straying... the point is, I like to think there is a balance in this group, but currently no one is playing with a level head. I understand your Domi has departed and I believe that is quite sad, but do not allow your revenge or hatred for these poor clerics and Marteous to cloud your judgement. Evil is a disease that needs a cure. You know what we must do and how to proceed, Valdor said 50. I say we can do better." "Domi's faithful all have wounds, even you. I know this, close that wound Bertram. Lighten your heart Friend Bertram, what would Domi have told you to do in the case of the defenseless souls. Domi is alive only as long you breathe and your heart beats! His word still echoes." The young elf takes a deep breath after his most winded speech ever. Then he waits for a glimmer of hope in his dwarven friends face. "Besides, I think it will be quite a tale to tell when I get home, how I saved the Wold single handedly with NO help from that grumpy old dwarf! Niunon and Kilfrow will have a roll over that!" The elf turns from Bertram laughing, "Oh yes, a true laugh from that!" Lian hopes that Bertram will come around. "Though, I am not one to take all the credit, I could give some to that Mop character." Long pause from Lian.
"A fire starts with but a spark! Be that spark, please Bertram, I can not do this without you."
Under his breath and to himself, Lian mutters, "This war is the most challenging of challenges, this should be great."
Ingrge Thursday March 21st, 2002 10:21:03 PM
Staying out of the discussion between K'nara and Figment, Ingrge watches just shaking his head. After they finished and the group's conversation turns toward what they should do next, Ingrge continues his head shaking. Finally taking a moment to speak, he does so alost to himself. "I expect that Marteus and his followers would be laughing at us right now arguing and debating the finer points of evil and what we should do next. It is obvious, at least it is to me, that he doesn't care about the lives of any people let alone his own. He seems to feed off of death and pain, no matter hose it is. I would rather not willingly or easily give up any of our lives. I don't think that we can effecetively do more than be a very minor delay of the inevitable if we stay here and fight from here. I believe that our best chance lies in finding this "Mysterious" thing that Parnoth has hidden. This is my feeling even though those I call my people fall before marteus' army. I would try to find ultimate victory than a meaningless one, IF we could manage a miricle."
"Having said this, I will make my stand as our leader sees fit."
Mohannin and Mop Thursday March 21st, 2002 10:35:31 PM
Mop stirs not much from where he set himself up upon arrival. He seems to particularly staying far away from the Time members. When asked about the thing that Parnoth had hidden, he is as forthcoming as you have ever known him to be. "I truly do not know what it is that he hid or why he didn't wield it himself. I got the feeling that parnoth fears it almost as much as The Dark Lord does. I do know that what ever it was was create by the elves more than a millenium ago."
Mohannin spends most of his time with the injured, helping them as he can. As the Talons start their next move discussions, he listens saying nothing until he is asked.
"Yes there is much that I have a vested interest in, Including this battle. My place and perhaps my part will be best played out if I join with the remaining Dragons and add my efforts to theirs.
As for what you should do? I can't say. You have options in front of you. I will say that I agree with your elf there, that the ultimate goal for all of us is the Final Victory. What part any of us plays in that, can not be forseen. You do in fact have a member within your circle who is fairly skilled at scrying and forseeing. I also know that he is wary of using these skills lightly. He looks pointedly at Ingrge, who has not looked up since he spoke last.
K'Nara Friday March 22nd, 2002 6:47:22 AM
"If you know anything else about whatever this elven artifact is, Mop--like, say...where to start looking for it, then please tell us so." K'Nara said in a voice that was commanding rather than pleading. Then she turned to Ingrge.
"Being an elf--maybe your ability to scry can help us out in finding this thing, too." the chestnut-maned woman said, then rubbed her chin. "What will you need to do this, Ingrge..?"
Lian Friday March 22nd, 2002 6:48:05 AM
"What say you Friend Bertram?"
Brother Bertram Friday March 22nd, 2002 6:04:43 PM
Bertram listens to Lian, torn between a deep aching for release from the pain he feels over the loss of the lives of innocents, and somewhat amused by this lad's desire to cheer him. Lians final query wakes him from his revery. "I am with you to the end of course Friend Lian. I just pray the group moves on this strange vision and it somehow helps. I wish...I just wish that I was sure they could secure this artifact themselves so that I may be permitted to stay and help the townsfolks. I am torn in this." Bertram smiles, "But either way you are my friend Lian and I thank you for your concern. Besides we cant have your friends thinking I am a grumpy old dwarf now can we" Bertram pushes himself to his feet. "Lets go see what our friends have decided."
Lian Friday March 22nd, 2002 7:03:02 PM
"Before we head back, can you answer two questions for me? First, were you actually going to leave us Bertram, to protect the town? It is not bad, just unexpected. Second, would you follow anyone other than K'nara? Personally, I would not, perhaps you or Ingrge, maybe Milo." Lian pauses shortly. "I expect that Figment may be questioning K'nara's leadership, I am concerned."
Brother Bertram Friday March 22nd, 2002 8:47:41 PM
"You over or rather underestimate me Friend Lian. I had no intention of leaving but I just wanted some time to think. As to the leadership of the group it means little to me as long as the group's goals coincide with mine. I feel strongly we should get our hands on this artifact, but I also feel that I should help the town in some way. I know not where this shall lead me."
Olana Friday March 22nd, 2002 8:57:08 PM
Olana looks a little dejected. "We'll die for sure if we stay here...."
Falin Friday March 22nd, 2002 9:01:24 PM
Falin replies to Olana,"We only die if we stay for two days."
Falin Friday March 22nd, 2002 9:05:30 PM
Falin continues, "I do not feel we need to stay to fight an army. That would be suicide and meet no end that anyone is trying to accomplish. I am merely stating we take one day to rescue as many people as possible and then we make for the artifact most urgently."
Lian Saturday March 23rd, 2002 3:06:43 AM
"Bertram, I think we need to return to the group and tell them we intend to stay and help the town." Lian slaps Bertram on the shoulder and heads off toward the party. While wander off ahead of his dwarven friend, Lian talks to himself. "I hope everyone agrees to help."
Brother Bertram Saturday March 23rd, 2002 7:20:58 AM
Bertram scratches his head as Lian walks away, "We did? LIan my friend it is not that easy. I cannot decide in a second on my course in this."
Olana Saturday March 23rd, 2002 5:55:19 PM
"But don't you realise?" says the elf. "If we stay any longer - that means that the army will be right behind us all the way. They won't stop here, you know! They'll just kill and come marching on! We'll spend the entire time evading them. If we leave now, it gives us some breathing space at least. I mean who knows what will happen once we start our search? "There could be enemies to the north too. "To linger is madness. I want to help these people as much as anyone else does, believe me - but no matter how we try, we cannot save them all. People are dying right now. Elves from my tribe are probably dying right now - while we're stood here discussing it. "We HAVE to keep moving!"
This somewhat uncharacteristic speech has turned her cheeks rosy.
Falin Saturday March 23rd, 2002 6:37:03 PM
Falin speaks thru tight lips, " I would be willing to either have the enemy licking at my heels for a short time until we get ahead of them or to hide in these areas the Tines have in the city and let the army march over us while we hide than to get up every morning knowing that I let an entire town be slaughtered and didn't try to save just one person." He walks off to cool down after his display of emotion.
Olana Saturday March 23rd, 2002 10:12:42 PM
Olana let out a sigh. Male elves were so stubborn - noble,heroic, but stubborn. She reckoned Ingrge and Lian would be no different.
That which was being suggested was a brave thing. If they could pull it off... but any slight delay and they'd be overrun. And if that happened, then all they had accomplished, all they could hope to do in this terrible war, would all be trodden in the mud and forgotten.
Lian Sunday March 24th, 2002 4:45:21 AM
"Bertram, I thought you HAD decided to help? I misunderstood my friend. What do you wish to do? Do not answer now, it is a difficult decision. I for one will agree with whatever K'nara has decided to do." Lian continues back with the dwarf. "I wonder what the rest of the group wants to do?"
Brother Bertram Sunday March 24th, 2002 8:46:40 AM
"Probably kill each other," Bertram answers wryly.
Figment Sunday March 24th, 2002 8:36:44 PM
The mage persists with Mohannin. "I know you have your own agenda, but I ask you: Would you be willing to run interference on the army so as to delay them for a few hours or days? That would prevent us from being caught by them. We can use the time to rescue the innocents, destroy the temple, and get everyone who will out of the city. In the time after this, I will attempt to assist Ingrge to try and determine any clues about this ancient elven item. Information, location, possession, etc.".
Figment, cont. Sunday March 24th, 2002 8:37:51 PM
The mage privately decides to drop the evil issue seeing there si no way he will be able to change the warrior woman's opinion.
K'Nara Monday March 25th, 2002 7:00:25 AM
As though for the first time, K'Nara's eyes turned to Falin.
"I forgot to thank you for helping my party out of the temple...Falin, is it..?" she asked, holding out a hand to shake the newcomer's. "Thank you. And, the Talons will not abandon people to their fate--the Emerald Kingdom still has its army available for defense, so the Dark Lord's hoarde won't find Emerald City easy pickin's...besides, there's always those contingency monsters that Parnoth's hidden around the city, too, right, Mop? Those beasties ought to be able to keep Marteau's army busy for a bit.
"Unfortunately, though, Olana is correct--we are a small band within the larger Tines network...and--since the Dark Lord has his evil eye the entire Wold and not just Emerald City, or even just the Emerald Kingdom, then we have to take the long view. We have to go find out more about this elven artifact so that we may recover it and use it against this would-be god." Once more K'Nara pinned Ingrge with her frank hazel regard.
"What do you require to help us find this elven artifact, Ingrge?"
Falin Monday March 25th, 2002 8:44:20 AM
Falin shakes K'Nara's hand with a slightly disappointed look in his eyes. He says, "Though I do not agree with your descision fate has thrown us together for some reason. I will accompany you until fate deems it nessisary to seperate us. I will help you find this elven artifact." Falin walk's to his belongings and starts to get his things ready for travel.
Milo Monday March 25th, 2002 9:50:17 AM
Milo's seriousness breaks for a moment into a smile, "Olana, we'll need that heroic energy before long. In the mean time however, more pragmatic measures are called for. I, for one, would like to stay out of the Dark Lord's direct view for as long as possible. Perhaps give us a chance to gack the old boy from behind, while he isn't looking." Milo's eyebrow arches as the halfling stands and quickly goes about the task of reorganizing his personal belongings in his pack so that he is ready for a hasty departure, when the group is ready to leave.
Ingrge Monday March 25th, 2002 8:16:28 PM
Sighing and giving Mohannin a look that could curdle the freshest of milk, Ingrge turns to K'nara. Glaring back at the druid for a moment he speaks. "What I can do and what I can't remain to be seen. What I need, I have except for solitude and nightfall. What good it will do, or what I shall be able to see, or find out, I can not say as the power is inconsistant and oft times fickle." The thing to remember is that Mareus's army may be two days away but it is probably at least a half day from hear to the tower. So, looking back to K'nara, If you want me to try, it must be at deep night."
Mohannin Monday March 25th, 2002 8:23:39 PM
Shaking his head and chuckling as Ingrge glares at him, Mohannin turns to Figment. There is much I can do and much I can't. There is also that which I am not allowed to do. While you slept I did much that I can not say. As to stopping an army? A normal one perhaps. But this army is hardly a normal one. I might be able to delay it a bit, but what is to say what might befall elsewhere due to my interference here? I feel, I am called to aid the dragons and that must be my priority. If I can aid you as well in some way I will, but if it comes to a choice...
MOP Monday March 25th, 2002 9:00:37 PM
Yes well, I don't really know anything else about what his highness hid in Saryd's Tower. I only know that it is very well protected, by the tower itself as well as by what is in the tower. I wouldn't put aside those old wives tales. That tower was created by the elves for the purpose of defending their city and its people, and it doesn't seem to like intruders very much.
Olana d20+2=21 Tuesday March 26th, 2002 12:24:05 AM
Taking her cue from Milo, Olana begins to check her traveling gear, too. Her mind is on two things... - Racking her brains to remember (if anything) known elven defenses that would likely be used in a Tower's defense. ((INT check 21 )) and... - Wondering what it would take for her to get Mop to spill the beans - she was convinced he knew more than he was letting on.
Lian Tuesday March 26th, 2002 1:56:50 AM
Lian walks on til he reaches the group.
Milo Tuesday March 26th, 2002 3:13:13 AM
Finished with his pack, Milo's smile is quite broad as he approaches Mop, "Well, old boy, they didn't create the silly tower to protect their city from halflings... or more to the point, me." With that, Milo produces a long thin wire from Alemi-knows-where and examines it for its straightness, before making it disappear, "We'll see how impregnable it is." Milo chuckles, turns, and winks at K'nara. "Somebody said to me once... Milo Thistledown, you're nothing but a common thief. Well, I'll say that isn't true... I am an extraordinary thief." The halfling seems somewhat smug as he stands there with a silly grin, and arms crossed.
K'Nara Tuesday March 26th, 2002 12:07:01 PM
"Well...I guess we'll just have to beat the army to that tower, then," K'Nara said, frowning thoughtfully, "Let's go, Talons--and, Mop...you'd probably do best by Emerald City if you could get Parnoth to loose some of his legendary 'secreted beasties' on that advancing army--it'll help buy the citizens time to evacuate."
Flueterflam Tuesday March 26th, 2002 7:29:35 PM
The bard follows K'Nara's order and heads out with the Talons. He seems to be in a surprisingly good mood for the odds facing the group.
Brother Bertram Tuesday March 26th, 2002 10:42:33 PM
Bertram hears the order to travel and cringes as he prepares. His whispered prayers go up to a god that is no longer there for the many innocent souls he was about to abandon.
Lian Tuesday March 26th, 2002 11:04:11 PM
Having made it back to the group, Lian sees Milo fixing his pack and rushes to do the same to his. Finishing the pack, lightly packed, most of what he owns is still in the saddlebags on Merlot. Hearing the comment Milo makes about being a 'common thief', Lian is taken aback, an almost shocked look on young elven features. "Milo, your a thief?" The elf looks almost worried. "Thieves go to prison Milo, you know that right?!" Lian then smiles, betraying his look of shock. "Your a professional........troubleshooter! Is that not right Friend Milo?" Turning then to collect up his pack.
Falin Wednesday March 27th, 2002 8:55:29 AM
Falin places his pack on his back and says, "May fate shine on us this day so that we may be able to return to the city with this artifact to save some townsfolk." With that he begins walking...
Milo Wednesday March 27th, 2002 11:17:59 AM
Milo chuckles at Lian's reaction, "Don't get excited friend... I only steal from the evil... and as for jail... stupid thieves that get caught go to prison... Trust me... we've all done our fair share of pilfering... some put a happy face on it and call it looting... or taking tribute from a vanquished foe... all in all it is the same thing... I just don't necessarily need to kill someone to take their stuff. So... Parnoth put this... whatever it is in a tower... if it'll help in the war against Marteaus than we take it and use it." Milo's countenance becomes serious, "Besides being a thief, I'm still a devout cleric of Alemi, and I do his bidding first." Milo's glance slides sideways to K'nara, "If that means I steal from Parnoth... that is peachy by me."
Ingrge Thursday March 28th, 2002 6:30:52 PM
Shaking his head, Ingrge packs his things on Moon Shadow and gets ready to move out with the others. "When we stop for the evening I will set up for a seeing, and then I guess we will see what we see.
DM Kent #1 d20+4=11 #2 d20+4=11 #3 d20+4=19 d20+4=19 #4 d20+8=13 #5 d20+6=20 d20+6=23 #6 d20+6=19 d20+6=7 d8+4=7 d8+4=9 d8+6=9 d8+6=12 d8+6=9 Thursday March 28th, 2002 6:54:49 PM
It is nearly midday when the Talons get moving and head toward the gates, to go to the Tower of Saryd.
Someone obviously decided to try and make a bit of money and collect on the reward for the Talons. For as they come around a corner a group of Priests is waiting on them, directly on their path. Off to the side you see several vaguely familiar figures watching from out of the way.
As the 6 priest/fighters see you, they attack.
#1 attacks Ingrge and misses. #2 goes after Bertram with a gusto but also misses. #3 slaps K'narra with a sword blow that rivals one of her best( crit threat 19 crit hit 19 for 16 points). #4 misses Olanna by a hand's width. #5 steps up to Fluet and taking a mighty swing cuts into the bard with a vengence (crit threat 20, crit hit 23 for 13 points). #6 lays into figment with his sword and cuts him badly as well (crit threat 19, no crit hit. 9 points).
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 d10+5=11 Thursday March 28th, 2002 10:02:41 PM
Bertram grins as the priest's attack misses and moves forward with a roar swinging the axe with a vengeance as he advances. As he feels the axe connect solidly he lets out a battle cry, "For Domi!"
(OOC Damage 11)
Milo d20+8=21 d20+8=21 4d6(3+6+2+1)+1=13 4d6(5+5+2+1)+1=14 Thursday March 28th, 2002 10:17:38 PM
Milo's short sword practically leaps out of its sheath as the halfling steps in line to flank the cleric Bertram attacked. Milo moves his short sword of speed in a blur of motion striking at the man's vitals.(AC increases to 22 due to Mobility and Dodge, in case I invite an attack of opportunity. I hit AC 21 twice for a total of 27 hps of damage.)
Olana d20+9=26 d20+7=25 d10=2 d8=1 Thursday March 28th, 2002 10:50:52 PM
"Oooooh!" exclaims the elf, sounding rather annoyed. Getting down to business she pulls both longswords and counterattacks. Her blows are light however, and so she concentrates on getting a better footing.
Figment d20+6=24 d4+1=2 d4+1=2 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Thursday March 28th, 2002 10:56:16 PM
The mage snaps off a magic missile straight down on the head of the priest near him. 4 firey balls blast him square in the head (assuming Figment is riding Jux, 10 DMG)). He attempts a glance at the "familiar faces" to see who they are (Int DC 24) as he spurs his mount to get out of range of his attacker and keeps him from closing as he prepares to cast again. "You guys just never learn do you? I like that...". He adds with a menacing voice.
K'Nara d20+8=26 d20+8=13 d6+3=7 d6+3=5 Friday March 29th, 2002 9:01:59 AM
The tall human fighter reeled from the sudden visciousness of the blow, but countered with her own, using the scimitar that was Lucia's replacement while the bastard sword was still out of commission. (OOC: hits AC26 [crit hit] for 7hp damage; crit hit attempt hits AC13 for 5hp damage.)
Falin d20+13=33 d20+13=25 d20+13=28 d20=15 d8+2=4 d8+2=7 d8+2=10 Friday March 29th, 2002 10:11:26 AM
Falin draws his bow and fires three times into the priest that attacked Figment with a sickening "Thwack, Thwack, Thwack"
(OCC: AC's 33,25, and 28 there was no crit dmg on the first attack. DMG respectively 4,7, and 10)
Flueterflam Sunday March 31st, 2002 4:58:25 PM
The bard's mood suddenly sours. He jumps back after a harsh injury. Still bleeding, he distances himself and unsheathes his +2 short sword. Fluet tries to catch his breath, and prepares to attack.
Lian d20+8=26 d20-1=17 d8-1=3 Monday April 1st, 2002 1:54:32 AM
Lian watches Bertram and Milo take on the sorry cleric between them. Surely he'll die quickly, which is a good thing. So, the young elf, with all haste, moves to flank with K'nara. Moving only the way Lian can, the young elf moves quickly to assist the leader of the Talons, not that she needs it. Taking a single attack (Stunning Attack (DC 16 Fort) or be stunned, Dodging and Defensive for AC 22. Hitting AC 26 for 3 DMG and make fort (DC16), if failed, stunned for 1 round losing dex to AC and attackers gaining +2 to hit for that round.
OOC:Disregard the 1d20-1 roll 17, I forgot to change the die types to d8 before rolling.
Assistant DM Jan d20+4=6 d20+4=22 d20+4=24 d20+4=18 d20+4=6 d20+4=5 d8+6=10 d8+6=8 d8+6=7 d20+4=9 Wednesday April 3rd, 2002 11:50:19 AM
The Talons fight back with a vengeance. Cleric 2 staggers back after some rather nasty blows coming from the dwarf and the halfling. K'Nara and Lian get into a deadly dance with Cleric 3, who begins to wonder if he has bitten off more than he can chew. Cleric 4 is nicked by Olana's blades, but smiles - thinking he has an easy target here. Cleric 6's hair sets on fire, courtesy of Figment and if that isn't all, he's further stopped in his tracks by Falin's arrows thudding into his back. But he's not down yet, and starts to laugh crazily. Cleric 5 positively grins as the bard prepares to fight. Cleric 1 cries out - "Death to these rebel savages!"
Spurred on, the holy avengers attack -
Cleric 1 makes another swipe at Ingrge and misses. Cleric 2 whirls around, enraged at the savage response of Milo and Bertram, and goes for Milo (AC22 - 10 DAM) Cleric 3 sweeps back with his blade as Lian steps in alongside K'Nara, slicing the elf (AC24 Crit but no crit damage - DAM 8) Cleric 4 moves in on Olana confidently, slashing with his blade (AC18 -DAM 7) Cleric 5 attacks Fluet once more, although this time the bard manages to evade the weapon. Cleric 6 swings his blade wildly and savagely, but his injuries appear to be hampering him, and he misses Figment by a mile.
((Check your AC's folks - I don't have the up to date character sheets as yet))
Figment Wednesday April 3rd, 2002 11:58:53 AM
Clearing the Cleric (I'm assuming the cleric didn't attempt to reclose with Figment after he broke away riding Jux). The mage decides to go after the group who apparently turned them in. He casts a Stinking Cloud right in the middle of them in an effort to incapacitate at least some of them. "Maybe you should choose your allies more carefully fools!" he bellows in a menacing voice. He makes sure that the pesky cleric is unable to close the gap so as to get another attack on him. (Shouldn't be too hard since he's mounted). He prepares to cast yet again.
Lian d20+6=25 d20+6=25 d8-1=0 d8-1=0 Wednesday April 3rd, 2002 6:01:00 PM
The young elf barely notices the stream of blood from his shoulder and continues the assault with K'nara. Lian adjusts his position, placing himself adjacent to K'nara with the C3 in between them. Lians AC versus C3 is 19, 18 without Dodge. Lian lets loose with lightning speed, Flurry of Blows and Stunning Attack (both blows) (+6 unarmed, -2 per flurry, +2 Flanking = +6/+6),(both are Stunning Attacks, fort DC 16 or be stunned for a round), doing 2 points of DMG from BOTH strikes (thank goodness you can never do less than a single point of damage). Lian is noticably disappointed by the volley he let loose on the cleric, his face shows self doubt, but then tries to recover his dignity.
"Cleric of the Dark Lord!" He says condasendingly. "Obviously your 'dark' god has NO love for you to send you to your deaths. Some faith you have there!" The young elf says smuggly and smirks.
Brother Bertram d20+6=19 d10+5=11 Wednesday April 3rd, 2002 9:34:21 PM
Bertram continues his attacks laying about as he can, intent on doing what he can to stop this madness.
(OOC 11 Damage)
K'Nara d20+8=25 d6+3=4 Thursday April 4th, 2002 8:22:08 AM
K'Nara said nothing, only struck at the cleric who'd attacked her. (OOC: hits AC25 for 4hp damage)
Falin d20+13=27 d20+13=14 d20+8=19 d8+2=3 d8+2=6 d8+2=5 Thursday April 4th, 2002 9:37:49 AM
Falin quickly lets loose with another barage of arrows with lightning quick reflexes and the hand of a seasoned vetaren. (OCC: AC's 27,14,19 with DMG of 3,6,5 respectively on C6.)
Milo d20+8=25 d20+8=21 4d6(5+2+4+5)+1=17 4d6(2+1+2+6)+1=12 Thursday April 4th, 2002 10:10:45 AM
Maintaining his flanking position, Milo lashes out agaist the cleric. (OOC: Milo hits AC 25 and AC 21 for a total of 29 hps damage. If Bertram dropped this cleric, then Milo moves over with this attack, flanking Olana's opponent.)
Flueterflam d20+5=18 d6=6 Thursday April 4th, 2002 11:43:37 AM
The bard takes a harsh stance against the cleric attacking him. He attempts to stab the cleric and end both their problems. (OOC: hit AC18 for 6 hps)
Ingrge d20+9=23 3d6(4+5+6)=15 Thursday April 4th, 2002 12:34:28 PM
Coming out of his reverie, as a weapon breezes by him for the second time, Ingrge almost casually reaches down and touches his opponent on the head. (Vampiric Touch: 15 points damage, no save)
DM Kent #2 d20+6=24 #3 d20+6=14 #4 d20+4=16 #5 d20+4=12 #6 d20+8=14 d8+5=610 d8+3=11 d20+6=18 d20+6=18 Thursday April 4th, 2002 9:22:48 PM
After the continued attacks of Bertram and Milo C1 falls to the ground, literally a bloody mess.
Figment's spell goes off enshrouding the targets he recognizes as being refuges that were being sheltered by the Tines in the hidden santuary.
Lian's blows while not as effective as he would have liked still did connect for some damage. His opponent however is not stunned, but rather calls back to the elf. "Our God gains strength from evey death and even more by the death of one who is devout. Gladly I will die for him."
K'nara's attack bites into the body of Lian's taunter and he once again laughs.
Falin watches with glee as two more of his arrows find their mark.
Flueterflam finally attacks his opponent and manages to connect solidly only to be startled as the cleric looks him in the eye, laughs and asks Fluet if he is ready to see the new God of the Wold.
Ingrge's opponent finally gets things together after feeling a chill seep through him and connects with a crushing blow (AC 24,10 points).
K'narra's opponent swings and misses as he can't decide whom to attack.
Olanna's opponent once again grins as he now knows he is faced with a peach of an opponent and strikes her (AC 16 for 11 points).
#5 swings once again at Fluet and once again finds it difficult to lay a weapon on the wily bard.
The pin cushioned #6 decides enough is enough and charges Falin, and while he closes with the young elf, fails to hit him with anything but a few puffs of air.
Lian d20+4=18 d20+4=22 d8-1=5 d8-1=1 Thursday April 4th, 2002 11:47:09 PM
Lian speaks to the misguided cleric once again, the young elf raises his eyebrow. "So I suppose you will now say we are helping your 'god' gain power. That is TRUELY the stupidest thing you could say!" The young elf begins to laugh at the cleric. "What your 'god' seems to gain power from are his silly little clerics here on the Wold. Wiether you dead or alive, I do not think it will matter to him. Besides, who is going to teach his stupid teachings to the young when your ALL DEAD, stupid cleric." Lian then loses the smile and begins to get REAL upset.
Lian then attempts to lay into the cleric. Flurry of Blows, AC 18 and 22, total of 5 and 1 points to the cleric. Lian's AC is 19 versus the cleric (Dodging).
Olana d20+9=25 d20+7=26 d10=10 d8=8 Friday April 5th, 2002 1:08:02 AM
The elf winces as the cleric's blade hits home, but this time, sure of her position and stance, she hits back resolutely, slicing left and right with both blades. (Dam 18) Her cool, blue eyes issue a strong challenge to her attacker.
Milo d20+10=17 d20+8=12 d20+8=25 d20+8=21 4d6(5+4+4+3)+1=17 4d6(5+3+3+2)+1=14 Friday April 5th, 2002 1:45:40 AM
Milo shouts to Bertram as he begins to move, "You give Flueterflam a hand with his, I'll help Olana." Milo somersaults into a flanking position, opposite Olana, and sets his blade in motion, letting the magic take over as he slices into the cleric. (OOC: I'm sure AC 12 is a miss, so I spent a hero point for a reroll and hit ACs 25 and then 21 for a total of 31 hps of damage.)
K'Nara d20+8=27 d20+8=23 d6+3=4 d6+3=8 Friday April 5th, 2002 7:45:55 AM
"Then I suppose we should all be commended for adding to the Dork Lord's power base!!!" roared K'Nara as her anger at her and Lian's opponent's comment seemed to lend her more strength than usual. (OOC: AC27 for 4hp--possible crit hit AC23 for 8hp more damage.)
Falin d20+13=19 d20+13=23 d20+8=22 d8+2=5 d8+2=6 d8+2=4 Friday April 5th, 2002 8:34:23 AM
Falin lets loose with one more volley of arrows as the cleric misses him. (OCC: AC's 19,23,22 and DMG 5,6,4 respectively to C6)
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=3 Friday April 5th, 2002 8:58:35 AM
The mage lets loose with another volley of magic missles, splitting the missiles between 2 opponents. He targets the one attacking Falin first. If he has fallen already he blasts the one on Olana. The one on Ingrge is his next target. (5+3=8,4+3=7 DMG - gave the order since I don't know how much any one has left. Split between the first 2 living in the list).
Brother Bertram d20+6=18 d10+5=13 Friday April 5th, 2002 4:11:08 PM
Hearing the boast of the cleric attacking Lian, Bertram moved to attack him while the cleric's attention was focused on Lian. Bertram enjoyed the sound of the clerics ribs breaking like rotting twigs as the axe crashed into his side. Bertram grinned at the injured cleric, "If your god gains strength from each devout death my friend, be of good cheer, we aim to please!"
Ingrge 3d4(4+3+4)+3=14 Friday April 5th, 2002 5:03:45 PM
Ingrge grimaces as he is struck by the hard blow, and then rips a spell out of his mouth and sends a trio of energy bolts ripping into his foe.(14 points)
DM Kent Friday April 5th, 2002 8:42:16 PM
Between Olanna, Milo and Figment, Olanna's opponent falls to the ground to never move again.
Ingrge's spell goes off without a hitch and the elf grins like he is starting to have some fun.
Falin's point blank arrows and Figment's missiles have the desired effect as the cleric is lifted off his feet as he is hit from both sides. he falls to the ground unmoving.
K'nara, bertram, and Lian all take chunks out of the cleric facing K'nara, and for a moment it seems as though he too will be overcome, when all of a sudden as the other two fall he, along with Ingrge's and Fluet's opponents all cry out as if in rapture and seem to glow for a moment. Then somehow they each seem to grow about 2 feet in height and with laughter only described as maniacal. Their wounds also seem to have been completely healed.
......
DM Kent #2 d20+6=20 d20+4=18 #3 d20+6=18 d20+4=18 #5 d20+6=26 d20+6=19 d20+4=9 2d8(8+2)+8=18 2d8(8+5)+8=21 2d8(4+6)+8=18 Friday April 5th, 2002 8:56:44 PM
Ingrge's Opponent has a crazy look in his face as he strikes twice quicly in succession hitting both times for 18 points.(AC 20 & AC 18)
K'narra's opponent laughs and then sneers at her as he strikes out at Bertram hitting twice AC 18 & AC18 for 21 points.
Fluet's opponent also continues the laughter and attacks twice connecting critically on the first and missing with the second attack. (Crit AC 26, AC 19 then Ac 9 for 18 points.
Flueterflam Saturday April 6th, 2002 1:47:52 PM
The bard doubles over in pain as the cleric strikes him. He lands unconscious with a loud 'thud' on the ground.
Falin d20+13=23 d20+13=32 d20+8=11 d8+2=5 d8+2=8 d8+2=10 Saturday April 6th, 2002 6:57:51 PM
Seeing one of his teammates fall Falin fires into Fluet's opponent hoping to draw him away from Fluet.
(OCC: AC's 23,32,11 and DMG 5,8,10 respectfully)
Lian d20+4=24 d20+4=24 d20+4=10 d20+4=13 d8-1=4 d8-1=5 Saturday April 6th, 2002 10:06:39 PM
The young elf looks at K'nara and says; "Well, I may have just upset someone... who is very Dark..!"
Lian then attempts to hit this 'new' opponent. Hitting AC 24 and 24 (Flurry of Blows), crit threat on both but not confirmed (darn), for 9 point of DMG.
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=3 Sunday April 7th, 2002 10:06:29 PM
The mage blasts the cleric on Ingrge with another Magic Missle - hoping he can slow down the crazed cleric (17 DMG).
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 d10+5=14 Monday April 8th, 2002 6:08:07 AM
Bertram staggers back from the heavy blow, then goes to work with a will hacking at the foul creature.
(OOC 14)
K'Nara d20+8=25 d6+3=8 Monday April 8th, 2002 7:04:20 AM
The tall bladesinger clenched her teeth at the sound of the laughing evil cleric. If only she had her Lucia back--but K'Nara had yet to pick up the sword from the Catacombs (something she had to do soon--stupid evil clerics kept snickering at her while she tried to poke at them with unfamiliar scimitars!)
"Laugh THIS off, son of darkness..!" K'Nara spat at her opponent, smacking at him yet again. (OOC: hits AC25 for 8hp damage.)
Milo d20+8=11 d20+8=26 d20+8=20 4d6(4+2+2+3)+1=12 4d6(5+4+1+6)+1=17 Monday April 8th, 2002 10:01:06 AM
Milo takes a step behind Ingrge's opponent, flanking the large, insane cleric, and a feral snarl is heard, issuing from the diminutive patriarch's throat as he lashes out with his short sword, going for the vitals. (OOC: I hit AC 11, missing, spent a hero point for the reroll and hit AC 26, then AC 20 for my second attack for 12 hps and 17 hps respectively. 29 hps damage total)
Ingrge d20+12=21 d4+5=8 Monday April 8th, 2002 6:48:11 PM
Reeling from the double strike, the wearied elf throws a dagger at the cleric and manages a quick smile as the dagger first buries itself in the chest of his opponent and watches it as it returns moments later to his hand. (AC 21 for 8 points)
DM kent d20+10=19 d20+8=27 d20+8=9 2d8(7+3)+12=22 d20+10=21 d20+10=22 2d8(8+4)+12=24 Monday April 8th, 2002 7:01:20 PM
Moments after Milo's, Figment's and Ingrge's attacks all connect and ingrge's dagger retreats to his hand, Ingrge's opponent falls to the ground. (nice rolls everyone 54 pts. damage in one rnd.)
The opponent faced by K'nara, Bertram, and Lian absorbs their blows and to K'nara's consternation does indeed once again laugh his maniacal laugh, just as he turns and strikes twice at Lian. AC 19 & 27 poss crit. for 22 points damage)
Fluet's opponent looks down at his fallen opponent and then with a quick two steps finds himself in striking distance of Falin (AC 21 & AC 22 for 24 points damage)
As Ingrge's opponent falls there is a shimmering around the other two clerics as they seem to grow even taller (both are near 8 ft tall now). Once again the remaining clerics seem to laugh and be nearly wound free.
Olana d20+9=24 d20+7=20 d10=7 d8=7 Monday April 8th, 2002 8:57:21 PM
Olana shouts a quick but relieved 'thank you' toward Figment and Milo, only to be horrified on seeing Fluet cut down.
She moves over there quickly, and as the evil cleric steps across to Falin, she positions herself between the fallen bard and their enemy.
Once again, her swords come into play. (AC 24, 20 for 7 and 7 DAM)
"What's making them grow bigger?" she yells, her normally smiley face baffled and angry.
Falin d20+13=27 d20+13=14 d20+13=21 d20+8=27 d8+2=4 d8+2=3 d8+2=6 Monday April 8th, 2002 9:28:37 PM
After the nasty beating Falin just took he spits blood from his mouth and takes aim.
"Sounds like they are being blown up by alot of hot air and they just need to be deflated." Falin yells, "I will see you in the afterlife hell spawn."
(OCC:I hit AC's 27,14,27 the 21 was a rolling error on my part. DMG was 4,3,6 respectivly)
Milo d20+8=9 d20+8=27 d20+8=26 4d6(2+3+5+4)+1=15 4d6(3+3+5+1)+1=13 Monday April 8th, 2002 9:46:48 PM
Stepping opposite Olana as she stands protectively over Flueterflam, Milo flanks, the now larger cleric of the Dark Lord, and yells as he strikes out at the man, "Take a message to your dark lord, the heroes of the Wold are coming for him!" Milo's short sword does its work, lashing out at the man's vital areas. (OOC: Darn it, missed again. Spending another hero point to hit AC 27, and then hit AC 26 for 15 and 13 hps respectively. Total 28 hps damage)
Lian (-4) d100=27 Monday April 8th, 2002 10:32:50 PM
Lian falls with a thud. He then proceeds to bleed to death.
He doesn't stabalize. (-5)
K'Nara d20=18 d20+8=10 d6+3=7 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 7:44:00 AM
K'Nara couldn't believe her eyes--what in The Wold was happening? As soon as one cleric fell to the ground, the others got bigger and better.
(OOC: Spellcraft check total is supposed to be 23--I forgot to roll with the Multiroll function.)
...as soon as one cleric fell--the others got bigger and better..?
"Motherless sons of--" cursed the thickwitted bladesinger as her realization came upon her VERY belatedly, "--they're in some kind of lifeforce symbiosis--when one falls, their energy goes to the surviving members of their accursed group!!! We have to try to kill them all at the same time, or we'll have one nigh-unstoppable foe if they fall one by one..!"
However, in shouting this theory of hers to her fellow Talons, K'Nara's customary accuracy suffered greatly. (hits AC10 ::sob!:: for 7hp damage)
Flueterflam (was -3, now -4) d100=29 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 8:25:04 AM
(ooc: -4)
Figment d20+4=21 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 10:47:59 AM
The mage leaps from his horse with great finesse (Dex DC 21) and runs up behind K'Nara. He casts Stoneskin on the warrior woman. "We can get better too!".
Ingrge Tuesday April 9th, 2002 8:19:35 PM
Ingrge grins again as he sees Figment's tactics change. "Good idea Figment. Hey Bertram stand still for a moment." Ingrge rides over to the doughty dwarf and touches him with his staff and mumbles something inaudible. Suddenly Bertram goes all fuzzy. (displacement 50% chance of any attacks missing)
Bertram d20+6=26 d20+6=23 d10+4=14 d10+4=8 d10+4=7 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 8:33:46 PM
Standing still for a moment as Ingrge casts his spell, Bertram feels the taint of magic wash over him. Shaking as if he could rid himself of the spell that way he focusses his attention on the opponent in front of him. Putting all of his energy into the stroke of his ax, Bertram swings and feels the satisfaction of a deep blade bite. (Ac 26, poss crit AC 23 , damange 29 points)
DM Kent d100=79 d20+10=17 d20+10=16 d20+10=12 d20+10=13 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 8:45:18 PM
Lian and Fluet are straddled or surrounded by their friends, as the battle rages above the fallen and unconcious duo.
Both K'nara and Bertram are the recipients of friendly spells and along with Olanna, Falin and Milo continue their assaults with the two clerics. While still standing the two clerics are bleeding heavily as they attack the remaining Talons.
Laughing Bertram's opponent swings once at him an once at K'nara and both attacks are deflected by the two stalwart Talons.
The second cleric swings on Milo as he is struck in the back, and not realizing that he is facing a diminuative opponent cuts twice through the air about two feet above Milo's head.
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 d12+5=17 Tuesday April 9th, 2002 9:58:37 PM
Bertram roars in rage seeing Lian fall and again hacks at the foul creature with all his might. Once again he is rewarded with the sound of his axe crashing into the creature. "Come Creature of Darkness, let us see who indeed worships a higher power!"
(OOC 17)
Lian d100=74 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 12:35:25 AM
::: Gurgle :::
Bubbles of blood and mucus flow from the mouth and nose of the fallen monk.
OOC: -6
Milo d20+8=16 d20+8=27 d20+8=27 5d6(3+2+5+6+3)+2=21 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 12:44:27 AM
Milo's grin is feral as he looks up at his attacker, "Did I catch you at a bad time? Thats right... down here buddy boy. Alemi says... DIE!" Milo's first attack swings wide, drawing the cleric off his guard as his second strikes home. (OOC: I'm pretty sure that AC 16 misses, however AC 27 is a critical threat, and confirmed by AC 27 for a total of 21 hps damage)
Olana d20+9=29 d20+7=17 d10=2 d8=3 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 2:09:36 AM
"Oh no!!" cries the elf, stricken at the sight of Fluet and Lian bleeding to death.
She slices out viciously with both her swords (oh wiff!!!! 5 DAM), but it's obvious she's likely to break off and try and bind wounds, if not told otherwise.
K'Nara Stoneskin d20+8=26 d20+8=22 d6+3=4 d6+3=8 d6+3=8 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 8:26:58 AM "Milo...Bertram...heal up the monk and the bard!!!" bellowed K'Nara. "Everyone else--kill these {censored}!!!" Then she roared as she hauled back and hacked furiously at the oversized priest she was battling. (Crit Hit AC26/AC22 for 4hp +16hp damage)
Falin d20+13=17 d20+13=19 d20+8=20 d8+2=5 d8+2=10 d8+2=3 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 8:44:46 AM
Falin looks a little rough from his last beating, which would explain his hideous shots as they streek off into the air.
(OCC: I am pretty sure that 17,19, and 20 do not hit, but if they do then DMG is 5,10,3 respectively.)
Figment d4+1=3 d4+1=3 d4+1=2 d4+1=3 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 9:04:03 AM
The mage blasts the one on Milo with another magic missile. (11 DMG).
Flueterflam d100=54 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 2:31:11 PM
(ooc: -5)
Ingrge Wednesday April 10th, 2002 6:06:17 PM
Backing out of the mix to allow the others to do the hard work, Ingrge starts delving into several pockets, pulling out two glass vials.
DM kent d100=99 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 6:15:23 PM
(OOC ouch 176 points of damage in two rounds. I'm gonna have to throw something harder at you all next time.)
Bertram and K'nara slice into their opponent and are gratified by the sight of him falling to the ground, even though they know what is about to happen.
Over onthe other cleric Milo's, Olanna's and Falin's last arrow all find their mark as out of the corner they see the other cleric falling. A shimmering starts gathering around their opponent just as Figment's missiles rip into the cleric obviously disrupting whatever was happening for the coallesence never occurs and the last cleric falls unmoving to the ground.
Lian d100=74 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 6:29:32 PM
::: Gurgle :::
Bubbles of blood and mucus continue to flow from the mouth and nose of the fallen elf.
OOC: -7
Falin d20+1=20 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 8:12:05 PM
After Lian and Fluet have been stablized, Falin is going to start to remove arrows from the bodies of the clerics in an attempt to bolster his supply.
(OCC: I rolled a 20 on my intellegence roll. I don't know if I would get a bonus for finding a good arrow with the Bowmaking skill. Last time I played it was the bowing and fletching skill :))
Brother Bertram 3d8(1+4+7)+5=17 Wednesday April 10th, 2002 8:31:59 PM
Bertram rushes to Lian and checks the still figure quickly. As he lays his hand upon Lian, Bertram prays that the spells in his head would still hold the healing power they once did. As his hands moved over Lian's wound's he muttered under his breath. "C'mon Lad, You cant leave me yet. We still have to explore the world together, not to mention save it. C'mon Lian!" Bertram is almost in tears as he feels the healing power enter Lians body and he bows his head reverently as Lian coughs and begins to move, albeit slightly.
(OOC 17 Points Healed)
DM Kent Wednesday April 10th, 2002 9:56:01 PM
(OOC arrows and other projectiles are destroyed when the hit their target and missed ones have a 50% chance of being found usable; D2 even)PHB3 pg 97.
Milo d8+1=8 Thursday April 11th, 2002 12:33:34 AM
Stepping over to Flueterflam, Milo kneels next to the bard, and whispers, "Come dear friend, let us dance a jig on the bodies of our enemy. The seeker is looking for you Fluet, come back to this world, and stand amongst your friends." (OOC: Spontaneously cast cure light wounds for 8 hps of healing; used up shield of faith)
After healing Flueterflam what little he can, Milo stands and steps over to the bodies of the fallen clerics, and one by one, he makes sure that the job is done. As he beheads the last one, he declares openly, "You will get no rest where you are going. Alemi's Seeker sends his regards to your dark lord. He is next."
Flueterflam d8+1=8 Thursday April 11th, 2002 1:33:56 AM
Stirring slightly, the bard cracks his eyes open. He smiles weakly at the halfing and thanks him in a weak whisper. Letting himself breathe for a minute or two, Fluet sits up slowly. "Looks like I have to be a bit more careful next time." He speaks quietly.
A bit embarrassed by his weakness, the bard turns away from the others and chants quietly. (ooc: Cure Light Wounds +8hps, now at 11hps total)
Olana Thursday April 11th, 2002 1:40:37 AM
As soon as the evil clerics are down, the elf slams her swords into their sheaths and helps bind the wounds of Lian and Fluet, hopefully aiding Milo and Bertram's efforts at restoring their health.
She seems most distressed, until they both give signs of life.
Lian Thursday April 11th, 2002 3:56:57 AM
Lian stirs slightly having recieved healing from his dwarven friend.
The young elf doesn't open his eyes, but smiles and says, "I knew I would not die if you still lived Friend Bertram." His eyes open, looking at Bertram. "Ingrge, you look terrible!" Lian begins to chuckle.
K'Nara d20=18 Thursday April 11th, 2002 6:37:48 AM
Into the sheathe went the still-unfamiliar scimitar as K'Nara realized that the clerics were all dead. Quickly she searched the bodies of the fallen (Search check 18) and, after she was satisfied with the results, took up a couple vials of oil and a torch to finish off the remains.
"I don't want any of these priests coming after us now that they're dead." she said grimly. "Let's take care of these...and get ourselves patched up and on our way as soon as we can."
Figment Thursday April 11th, 2002 9:25:57 AM
After seeing the battle won, the mage walks over to the group entrapped in the stinking cloud. He dismisses the spell and says in a very menacing voice. "If anyone moves I'll kill you all!". He stands and waits for the others to come over and iterogate.
Ingrge 3d8(3+7+5)+8=23 3d8(5+6+7)+8=26 Thursday April 11th, 2002 7:09:41 PM
Hopping down from Moonshadow Ingrge limps over to the group carrying his two vials. Looking over all of the other Talons, Ingrge notes that everyone is wounded to some extent, including himself, but even after healing Lian and Fluet look worse than most of the others. Handing them each one of the vials, he says, These are the last ones I've got so drink up. (Lian 23 point healed. Fluet 26 points healed.)
DM Kent Thursday April 11th, 2002 7:22:44 PM
Figment finds a family huddled together nearly unconcious after dismissing his spell. The father weakly nods as Figment makes his pronouncement.
Milo finds that all of the clerics are dead and back to normal size when he goes to decapitate them.
K'nara searches the bodies as Milo takes care of them. She finds that each of them has a coin pouch with 100 platinum pieces. Each of them also has two small vials of a clear liquid in those pouches.
They also each had either a nice looking longsword or mace, 3 each.
Brother Bertram Thursday April 11th, 2002 9:50:57 PM
Bertram smiles with relief and an odd affection as Lian wakes. He wipes his eyes vigorously and gets up and check on the others helping where he can.
Lian Friday April 12th, 2002 12:00:58 AM
Lian gladly drinks up the potion Ingrge hands to him. All the remaining wounds close up and Lian stands up better than ever.
"Thank you friend."
He walks over to the corpse of the cleric he and K'nara were fighting and gives it a swift kick. "Told you your God was garbage!!"
Walking back over to Bertram, the young lively elf says, "Three down, many more to go my Friend Bertram!" Lian smiles realizing the Talons were still alive.
Olana Friday April 12th, 2002 1:26:50 AM
The elf walks over to Figment and whispers - "Maybe these have learned a lesson here today."
She hopes she's right. Things were bad enough without the ordinary townsfolk turning on them as well. Maybe Martaeus's influence was more widespread than they realised.
Flueterflam Friday April 12th, 2002 1:37:23 AM
After feeling a little better physically, the bard confronts his fearless leader. "K'Nara, there has to be a better way to get these guys. There will only be more. What should I do next time so that I don't become pancake mix?"
Milo Friday April 12th, 2002 10:13:42 AM
Finished with his dirty work, Milo wipes his hands off with a rag which he pitches down to the bodies, and then walks over to where K'nara is standing. "Speaking about more of these guys... there will be more, sooner than you think if we don't get moving. Can we discuss future battle tactics on the road?" Milo looks anxious to get away from the scene of the fight.
Figment d20=18 d20=2 Friday April 12th, 2002 3:32:01 PM
The mage looks at the pathetic man and his family. "Has the Dark Lord corrupted even the GOOD folk of this town? Do we even now have to number our ALLIES as our enemies? Why, sir? Why...?". The mage looks at him for an explanation.
DM Kent (Old Man) Friday April 12th, 2002 8:36:34 PM
"Kind sir, please forgive me. It is all my fault. We lost our farm and and our oldest two chlidren, and well the 500 gold reward for each of you..... ... I know it was wrong.... He shrugs, almost a bit helplessly as if he can tell that what he is saying is an admittance of how weak he has become. the mother and children are quiet, still couching quietly.
The Talons move out and limp along, to the city gates, without any further mishap. As they get to the gates, they have to work hard to get out and avoid trampling the common folk, as there seems to be a mass exodus in progress. Once outside the gates the Talons head up the North road and toward the tower. The mood is somber as the Talons discuss any upcoming tactics. Ingrge is sitting quietly on Moonshadow lost in his thoughts apparently still thinking about K'nara's request that he do a seeing.
Olana d20+11=29 d2+11=12 d2+11=13 Friday April 12th, 2002 10:00:04 PM
Olana looks shocked on overhearing the size of the purse on each of their heads.
As they travel north, the elf moves a little ahead of the others, hopefully ensuring they aren't as easily surprised by any other groups of folks who want to take pot shots at them. (Track DC29, Spot DC12, Listen DC13)
Brother Bertram Friday April 12th, 2002 10:32:28 PM
Bertram looks to the elderly man and his family with pity for a moment before they leave. Then he takes 100 platinum pieces from the loot they had just found on the foul cleric's corpses. "I cannot condone what you have done to us sir, but I cannot fault a man for trying to save his family. Go with your family, and remember the love of Domi." Bertram looks to the others somewhat sheepishly as the family leaves. "Well I couldnt just let them starve could I!? Take it out of my share!" Bertram stalks off before anyone can reply.
Figment Friday April 12th, 2002 10:58:35 PM
The mage shakes his head as the realization of just how desparate the situation has become begins to sink in. He nods as Bertram gives them the money. "Take it and get out of the city. It's not safe here.". He makes sure and get Jux as they leave. "So how do we get to this tower? I have a basic knowledge of the land, but you guys are more from here than me.".
As the group travels forward, the mage speaks to Milo privately when he gets off to the side. "I guess your hatred for these yahoos is greater than mine even. You killed those 3 priests I tried to take out. I've no intention of mentioning this to the others - but I wonder why nobody noticed. I just wanted you to know I share your view on this issue...". The mage doesn't belabor the point, but moves on after any response he might give...
Lian Saturday April 13th, 2002 1:18:11 AM
Lian looks at Bertram as he give the family the gift from Domi's heart, and Bertrams. "Bertram, I do not know about the rest of the Talons, but I would not mind if the share was split among us." Lian looks around at the group. "Well, at least I do not mind if you take some from my share anyway. Tell the man to keep the money hidden while still inside the city!"
When watching the exodus, Lian gets a shiver up his spine. "Oh, this can not be good." Lian gets atop Merlot, his white horse, and moves up to Ingrge. "Friend Ingrge, what is on your mind?"
Milo Saturday April 13th, 2002 12:31:35 PM
Milo's head jerks toward the wizard, a dangerous glint in his eye, the halfling speaks calmly and quietly, "Figment, I do not hate anybody. Hatred is an emotion that all good halflings abandoned long ago. However, the church of Alemi is at war, and I take orders from Alemi before all others. I did what I did, not out of hatred, but of love for my god." Then Milo's face softens, and a grin creeps across its surface, "Besides, K'nara didn't speak up quick enough, I was done before she said anything."
Ingrge Saturday April 13th, 2002 4:08:37 PM
Jarred out of his reverie as Lian rides up and asks his question, Ingrge shakes his head for a moment and it looks like Lian isn't going to get an answer of any sort.
Then as if he changed his mind, Ingrge looks at the monk for a moment and with a big sigh says, "It boils down to the fact that I am scared my friend. The Heirophant is correct that I have some talents and abilities that I do not use. I hesitate to use them for fear of what I may see and learn. The dreams that I have nightly are already almost more than I can handle. K'nara doesn't realize what she asks of me and that is as it should be. I would ask that you not pass this information on to anyone else."
Once again Ingrge shakes his head and then shrugs as if he has come to a decision.
"What it boils down to is that I am part of this group and if my other talents can aid our task then, they should be made available at need. I am just worried and frghtened, that's all."
Figment Sunday April 14th, 2002 8:07:51 PM
The mage nods support for the halfling's reasoning. "Then it seems we have a common goal - if for different reasons. I'll help you in this as I have opportunity. And I will not alert the others to your mandate, as it seems to be in conflict to some degree with the ideals of the others.". The mage moves on with the others.
Falin d20=18 Monday April 15th, 2002 12:43:31 PM
As we leave the city and travel Falin keeps a wary eye out for followers.
(OCC: Spot check 18)
Olana (Down 18 hps) Monday April 15th, 2002 6:15:13 PM
As they journey on, Olana suggests to the others that perhaps before they go any further, they ought to rest up a little, and make sure everyone is fully healed and all spells are returned to memory. "After all," she adds solumnly, "that was a nasty battle back there, and I think we all took some bites."
She looks for a spot to rest that can be easily defended.
Falin (Down 24) Monday April 15th, 2002 6:57:19 PM
"I agree with Olana."
K'Nara (by Kent) Monday April 15th, 2002 7:08:05 PM
After putting away the remaining coins and the weapons, K'nara looks at the vials, and walking over to Figment says, "Mage, when we get a chance, can you take a look at these and see what they might be?" Turning and quickly mounting, she turns to the talons. "Let's get out of the city and see if we can find somewhere before we get to this tower where we can rest and heal. We don't have much time though."
As Fluet rides up, K'nara responds after she thinks a few moments. "My first thought is that you step away and use that curved stick on your back, and stay out of the melee when ever possible. Otherwise, I guess you need to learn to duck better."
DM Kent Monday April 15th, 2002 7:26:46 PM
The Talons push their way through the masses and manage to get clear to the north road. Those Talons from the Emerald Kingdom, figure that at an easy pace they should make the Tower grounds by late afternoon, or by early evening if they take a short break. Which should put then only several hours away from Marteus' armies.
The mood continues to be somber and there is much darkness on the northern horizon, that appears to be smoke. There are many many flocks of carrion birds crossing here and there, and every now again a lone family or traveler is seen coming toward you only to scatter into the woods as the take sight of you. Near noon, you find the remains of what used to be a guards way station that could serve for a short rest break. After checking it out thoroughly, the area is deemed to be safe. Only moments after you all have settled down there is a sudden burst of arial activity and then absolute quiet. Then slowly the sun starts disappearing as it is occluded by something. As you all look up to see what is covering the sun, you are shocked to see what appears to be a huge chunk of land, complete with a huge city flying over the ground. Figment and Ingrge through their knowledge of spellcraft and arcane things, are pretty sure that the vials of liquid are some type of healing medicine, but they are not sure.
Milo d20+10=27 Monday April 15th, 2002 10:01:46 PM
As the Talons are mounting up, Milo remembers his lack of horse. Taking a couple of quickened steps, the halfling nimbly vaults up into the saddle behind Olana, "Pardon me pretty elf lady, can I ride on this horse too? Milo grins up at Olana from behind. My poor Rose is still in Plateau City." (OOC: Made a tumble check DC 27).
Lian Tuesday April 16th, 2002 3:06:59 AM
Lian says nothing as he travels. He lags back with Bertram behind the rest of the party and will converse quietly with Bertram about pretty much anything other than Marteous and Domi... and the war.
Figment d20+4=21 Tuesday April 16th, 2002 11:09:07 AM
The mage sees if he can recognize the city (Int DC 21). "What kind of sorcery is this?!?! I'd say we'd better get to that tower quickly. No reason to let that army get any closer than necessary.". After conferring with Ingrge, the mage also tells the others about the vials. "So Ingrge, when will you attempt your dreamwalk?".
Olana Tuesday April 16th, 2002 3:27:59 PM
"Of course you can," offers Olana as Milo joins her on horseback, glad of his company as they weave their way north. She seems a little spooked at the sight of the crows and scattering travelers. "Once you've rested," she asks, "could you heal a few nasty cuts I took earlier?"
As they rest a short while at the guard station, she stares up in utter disbelief as the sky darkens. "Is the entire world, flying away and leaving us?" she wails.
Falin Tuesday April 16th, 2002 9:46:06 PM
Falin draws his arms around his chest, as if cold, at the sight of the birds. "This is not a sign of good fate. It is as if everything is very uneasy and tense."
As the city is seen he merely shakes his head in disbelief ans says, "I guess the bird just wanted a better view of the Wold from atop that city."
K'nara (by Kent) Tuesday April 16th, 2002 10:10:45 PM
The bladesinger rides along and at the break is if not happy, at least relieved, at what the potions seem to be. Not wanting to force anyone els to make sure of the potions and knowing the mages dont have the time for a better ID, she takes one and downs it. If it seems to aid her healing she will down another and then pass them out to the other talons.
Ingrge Tuesday April 16th, 2002 10:15:30 PM
After working with Figment and ID'ing the potions to the best of their ability in the time given, Ingrge sighs as his fellow mage asks about his upcoming ordeal. "I expect that I will make my seeing tonite when we are at least partially safe. As the city passes over, Ingrge looks up and sighs again, and then mumbles. "There is yet another thing come to pass....
DM Kent d8+4=10 d8+4=11 Tuesday April 16th, 2002 10:25:21 PM
K'nara tries the vial and almost immediately she feels better and several of her wounds start to heal over.(10 points) she quickly tosses back another,(11 points) and then hands one to Milo and Figment two to Bertram Ingrge, and Olanna, and hands three to Falin, motioning for them to take there medicine. (that should leave two left)
(All roll 1d8+4 per potion)
After lunch the Talons make pretty good progress and by late afternoon they see the tower less than a mile away.
When they finally get to the Tower it is nearing dusk. There is no apparent entrance to be seen once they get inside the broken ring of fallen stonewalls. The tower is very definitely old and extremely sturdy. In addition to there not being an apparent entry, the top of the tower is apparently beyond eyesight.
While obviously unkempt, the grounds, inside the walls have very obviously had some attention on a regular basis, as the grass is long, but even, and there are several piles of yard debris neatly stacked near the outside wall.
Any time the elves in the party approach the tower they feel a deep sadness and a very definite urge to enter the tower. In their mind's eye their is a picture of three stones on the far side of the tower that they must press, in order for the door to become visible.
As the others approach the tower they feel uneasy and bit like they are being watched.
When K'nara approaches she gets mixed feelings. Her human self is very reluctant to go near, let alone in, the tower but something in the tower recognizes her ring and is pulling on it.
Lian d20+6=24 d20+14=32 Tuesday April 16th, 2002 11:56:26 PM
Lian watches the Tower with interest, watching and listening.
OOC:Spot of 24 and Listen of 32.
Milo d8+4=11 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 1:23:01 AM
Milo drinks his potion, and the wound he received closes up but good, leaving the halfling looking completely unharmed. He takes passing note of the city in the sky, but not more. Answering Olana, "If'n your still hurt after the potions, I'll be happy to do what I can, after I've rested." With that, the halfling puts his arms around Olana's waist and quietly falls asleep, resting as they ride.
Upon arriving at the tower, halfling wakes, and looking around with mild apprehension, yawns, and stretches, "Hmmm... doesn't look too tough, though we should be wary of magic traps." (OOC: drank potion for 11 hps of healing).
Figment d8+4=11 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:48:57 AM
The mage tenses when the warrior woman quaffs the potion and sighs largely in relief whenever it is clear that he and Ingrge had done their job properly. "Wasn't THAT sure, K'Nara. I wouldn't make a habit of slamming potions with perhaps unknown qualities - in my professional opinion that is...". He drinks his own potion and feels much better as well.
As he approaches the tower and compares feelings with everyone else, the mage suggests they make an atempt to get into the tower. "If we can get in and the tower allows it, I like our chances in there better than out here. Also, with the dream and vision power this thing obviously has, it may help Ingrge focus his power - or give him more information than he would otherwise get.".
Figment Wednesday April 17th, 2002 10:09:29 AM
OOC: What does Figment know about the city that is floating away? Int Check was DC 21.
(oops sorry. If Figment has personal knowledge of Lankhamar, then he may recognize it. If he has been there then he will recognize it. If neither then he may have heard of it.)
Falin d8+4=8 d8+4=9 d8+4=7 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 12:41:55 PM
Falin drinks the potions and some color seems to return to his face and he stands a little taller.
Falin will start to head toward where the door will become visible.
Olana d8+4=12 Wednesday April 17th, 2002 1:17:01 PM
'Oooh,actually - this potion helped quite a lot,' says Olana to the sleepy Milo, after she drinks it down.
As they reach the Tower, Olana dismounts and has a quick look around. 'Someone tends this place,' she says reverently, 'and it calls to me with songs of sadness.' She looks to the other elves in the other party, wondering if they can feel it too. 'There is also a hidden way inside,' she says, and walks to the rear of the Tower, looking for three stones that will allow entry. How did she know this? The Tower was definitely a magic place.
K'nara (by Kent) Wednesday April 17th, 2002 8:01:38 PM
Sighing as her wounds heal, K'nara looks at Figment and says, "Figment, I may not agree with you on many things, but I trust you and ingrge when it comes to things magical. Besides I figured someone needed to be the guinea pig and I wasn't going to have one of you do something I wouldn't."
Ingrge Wednesday April 17th, 2002 8:07:14 PM
Quaffing his potion as well, Ingrge seems to about to add to Figment's comments when K'nara says her piece. Shaking his head He looks as if he will never figure humans out let alone their leader.
As Figment continues on about Ingrge's impending sojourn, he once again gets quiet and a look of deep sorrow crosses his face. Walking slowly but with great purpose, Ingrge crosses to the tower and lays both hands, palms down, on the Tower's wall. As he does so he shudders and it looks like a great weight or burden has been placed on his fragile shoulders. He sighs deeply and slides to his knees.
Falin Wednesday April 17th, 2002 8:42:51 PM
"I feel this sadness as well, but soon we will feel a greater sadness for this land if we do not do what we came here to do with great expediency. Come fellow adventurers and let us do what is needed to save this land. We can take time to feel after we have accomplished our goals."
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:57:01 PM
Bertram goes about the others and makes sure they are fully healed.
Milo Wednesday April 17th, 2002 10:09:38 PM
Dismounting, Milo begins to make a wide circuit around the structure, examining it critically all the while. He thinks to himself, 'How very odd, it seems to have some effect on the elves in our group. I shall have to be careful.'
K'Nara (by Donna again, hooray! ;D) Thursday April 18th, 2002 6:37:12 AM
K'Nara used her free time to practice her bladesong technique, this time using her blade of choice, Lucia the Flaming Bastard Sword. She was very grateful to the smith who repaired it and very lucky to have just barely had the time to retrieve the weapon before having to leave the capitol.
As the familiar sword hummed along during her routine of graceful thrusts and parries, K'Nara's mind meditated on the different things that had come to light of late: the appearance of the staunch Falin, Lian's dedication to his art of unarmed combat, the way Olana and Milo were growing closer, Fluet and his personal determination to try to do better in battle, Brother Bertram's stoic manner and the way he'd been carrying on after the death of Domi...and Ingrge's introspection about using the arcane aspects of his magesight.
The elf's reticence about scrying hadn't escaped K'Nara's notice, and she couldn't understand why he was reluctant to utilize the skill...but--having her own private demons regarding certain matters herself--K'Nara was not about to force the elven warrior-mage to do anything that he really didn't want to do, either.
After a meal and her usual weapons maintainence, K'Nara turned her sharp hazel eyes to the imposing Tower the Talons were to penetrate, noting well the paradoxical feelings that swirled within her. The discipline of her bladesinger training won that personal skirmish, however.
"All right, Talons," she addressed the others, nodding at their objective, the Tower, "Olana says there's a hidden way in there--let's find it, check for traps and get this show on the road..!"
DM kent Thursday April 18th, 2002 6:44:04 PM
(welcome back Donna)
As Olanna and the elves in the party finally find the door and get it open without any troubles, the sun is finally setting.
As each elf enters the tower, they get a sense of homecoming and great loss. Each non-elf is met with a prickly sensation as if their very souls were being searched for something.
As K'nara enters she feels the prickliness as well, but she also fells a deep sadness, almost as if someone were mourning the loss of someone special.
The door closes behind the last one to enter and once again is invisible to non-elven sight.
The first thing noticed in the rapidly diminishing light is that the room is lightly lit by softly glowing light stones built into the walls.
The room you are in is perfectly round, one hundred twenty seven feet in diameter, twenty seven feet from floor to ceiling, with a spiral staircase running around the edge of the walls and disappearing into the ceiling through an opening in the floor.
There is no railing on the stairwell. The stair is only two feet wide and apparently ends or begins on this floor.
From the room you can now see that along the stairway there are many arrow slits that were not visible from the exterior.
As the sun fully sets and darkness settles in, a small fire lights itself in the fireplace.
The main floor is furnished with some extremely nice furnishings, all in nice repair and surprisingly there is no sign of dust anywhere.
There are several gorgeous tapestries detailing battles and other scenes along the wall.
As it is really too late to explore, and the fact that the party is beat they settle in for a night's rest.
Everyone has several strange dreams and quite a few wierd sounds occur during the night while the talons sleep inside the tower.
Found on a small desk is a leather-bound book. It is a diary of the last of the tower of Saryd's warders. It is written in a hard to read nearly archaic elven script.
Brother Bertram Thursday April 18th, 2002 8:46:09 PM
Bertram looks about somewhat put off by the eerie feeling of the tower. "I feel as if this place judges me to see if I am worthy to be here. I do not like the feeling." Bertram gives a small shudder and then keeps an eye about for any trouble.
Lian d20+14=22 Thursday April 18th, 2002 9:49:56 PM
OOC: Welcome back Donna!
A shudder runs through the young elfs soul as the fireplace lights on it's own. After entering the tower, Lian sits down and pulls a small bundle for his pack. As he unwraps it he calls Milo over. "Milo, I understand the slippers well enough, but I have never worn bracers. How do they work?" He removes his sandals and replaces them with slippers. Hearing Bertrams comment about the tower, Lian walks over to him. "Friend Bertram, the tower IS watching and judging us all. There was a great loss here." --------------------
After a nights rest (elven meditation), Lian goes up the Ingrge. "Were your dreams... odd?"
OOC: Lian was listening most of his waking hours when the others were asleep, Listen check of 22.
Olana Thursday April 18th, 2002 10:45:10 PM
As soon as Olana enters the Tower, she catches her breath. This felt like home, but at a time of mourning. It mirrored a fear she had of returning home to her tribe. How many of them would be left, after all this?
She spends a long time wandering around, looking at the tapestries, searching for hope and meaning. When rest comes, it allows what dwells in the Tower to enter her head - noises and visions, which she attempts to make sense of.
Such is the Tower's effect that when the book is discovered, she hardly dare touch it. "Ingrge? I think this is elven - can you or Figment read it?"
Figment d20+16=35 Thursday April 18th, 2002 11:01:38 PM
Being fluent in elven, the mage peruses the elven work, carefully turning the pages so as to not damage them. He calls on his general knowledge but also delves into his studies of spellcraft, arcana, and royalty/nobility to extract anything he might from the work. As he sleeps, he attempts to make heads or tails of his dreams.
(OOC: Hey, what did Figment know about the city that floated off?)
Milo Friday April 19th, 2002 1:40:40 AM
As Milo enters, he shudders momentarily as the tingling passes through him. Then, as he begins to view his surroundings, an old familiar feeling begins to take hold of him. Something from deep within the halfling sparks, an instinct natural to all of his kind, though it be their curse as well... curiosity. Milo's curiosity begins burning... brighter and brighter, until you can see it in his eyes as he seems to look everywhere at once. Realizing that a change has come over some of his friends, he forces himself, through sheer act of will, to remain silent. He stays a step behind Olana as she looks about the room, standing in mute support. Finally when all settle down, he lays out his bedroll, and falls into a deep peaceful sleep.
K'Nara Friday April 19th, 2002 6:56:27 AM I must make more of an effort to learn to read elven if I'm going to become a bladesinger... K'Nara thought to herself as she eyed the tome.
"I hope there's a clue or something in there." she said as Figment studied the book, then grimaced in Lian's direction. "I don't remember details, but I'm pretty sure that the dreams I had last night were strange."
Ingrge Friday April 19th, 2002 8:23:04 AM
Still silent from his wall communion, Ingrge follows the others into the tower and as he enters he does not look around but walks straight to one of the divans facing the fireplace.
Arranging himself comfortably on the florr in front of the fireplace where rays of light meet, from several of the arrow slits, he sits with his back just brushing the divan.
Removing a shallow mithril bowl, he pours a small anount of black water in to the bowl, places the bowl inhis lap and closes his eyes Almost immediately he seems to drop off into a deep trance. For several minutes it does not even seem as though he is breathing but then one slow shallow breath is noted by the others.
Nothing seems to change for a long time and then suddenly, Ingrge goes stiff and falls over, nearly spilling the bowl. Faintly audible gibberish can be heard coming from him if any one is close enough.
This continues for several minutes until somehow Ingrge manages to right himself again. Now his face, with its closed eyes, is staring into the shallow depths of the bowl with its inky liquid. A low moaning starts emitting from his mouth and his head falls closer and closer to the bowl. Then he begins to speak in a voice and language not often heard above ground.
Sarn lil sargtlin's inthen. Draa el.
Uk zhah raldarin l'waess da'fol har'dro.
Ragar del huela b'luth'ol d'elghinn.
Oloth zhah tuth abbil lueth ogglin.
L'elamshin d'lil Wold zhah wun dossta ssin.
Z'hin bauth lil del noamin colbauth.
As he finishes speaking the last phrase, Ingrge collapses into the the bowl and falls over completely limp.
Flueterflam Friday April 19th, 2002 11:52:06 AM
Entering the tower, the bard shivers. He is curious as to the reason, but shakes off the notion as they move on. Fluet quietly follows the others, readies himself for sleep, lies down and doesn't not speak until he wakes up the next morning.
Falin Friday April 19th, 2002 6:42:01 PM
Falin will take and set aside his gear for the night. He removes his armor as well and walks around the tower for a while running his had along the walls, tapestries, furniture, etc. He does this just for the sake of running his hand across them. As he does he gets a look across his face like he is remembering. He even smiles...
DM Kent Friday April 19th, 2002 8:48:18 PM
Morning comes and the Talons wake although they aren't very rested, due to the strange dreams and Ingrge's outbursts. The morning is quite chilly and the fire is out. And through Bertram's ministrations and normal rest everyone is back to full health.
(OOC Figment I posted what you new about the floating city several days ago.)
Figment's perusal of the diary doesn't elicit much for it is a high elven dialect that has not been used in nearly a century. What he can gather is that the warders of the Tower never left their posts and they never gave up on the return of their folk. It speaks of the coming of Parnoth and the invasion of the tower by a group of Parnoth's private guard as they brought some dire weapon to hide from the mortal world.
K'Nara d20=18 d20=17 Monday April 22nd, 2002 7:01:09 AM
(OOC: the rolls above are first a Listen check to see if Ingre's outburst of the previous night woke up K'Nara; then a roll to see if K'Nara can sufficiently retain and parrot the dialogue that Ingrge spoke.)
K'Nara--who was up early for her bladesinger workout (as usual)--came over and gripped Ingrge by the shoulder. Her touch conveyed concern for the elf as well as for what had occurred the night before.
"Ingre, my friend," she said to him, "Are you all right? I heard you speak after your attempt to scry--are you aware of what happened? You did appear to be in some kind of trance...if you aren't aware of what you did or said, I can repeat it for you..."
(If Ingrge is unaware of his dialogue, K'Nara will repeat the words, using the 17 as her check for whatever skill may be required to parrot the dialogue back to Ingrge. K'Nara has no Intelligence bonus, but does have a +2 Charisma bonus if that is applicable.)
Milo Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:50:08 AM
Sitting up in his bedroll, Milo stretches and yawns, and without further ado, closes his eyes in meditation and prayer, giving reverent thanks to Alemi for keeping him and him friends alive thus far. After prayer, dresses and stows his gear in his pack.
Figment Monday April 22nd, 2002 2:16:30 PM
The mage repeats what he has learned from his perusal of the work. "Looks like we need to go up. Milo, any chance there are secret doors around this floor? Any of you elves any new insight on the location of this artifact?".
Olana Monday April 22nd, 2002 2:53:59 PM
Olana pauses and thinks for a moment as Figment passes on what he has discovered.
"If the elves never left, then perhaps it is their ghosts we can sense," she offered. "We must step carefully here. The fact that the Tower has been infiltrated once by Parnoth's men, will not have settled easily on the elves guarding the Tower. "They may have added extra protection. Milo - be extra careful on seeking out traps."
When Ingrge comes round, she says nothing, but gives him a tight hug. After all, he did have a most unrestful night, and here - that could not have been a good thing, or could it?
Falin Monday April 22nd, 2002 7:05:39 PM
"I agree with Elfmaiden Olana. And I think we can use that if we do find someone. We can let them know that we are here to remove the evil than Parnoth has placed here and return sanctity to this great building."
Lian Monday April 22nd, 2002 9:56:11 PM
Lian just sits as the party begins searching the Tower further. He pulls out a scroll and begins studying it.
Brother Bertram Monday April 22nd, 2002 11:04:48 PM
Bertram sits moodily waiting to see what the wiser members of the group could find out. As always his custom, Bertram begin sharpening his axe.
Flueterflam Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 11:44:08 AM
The bard sits quietly by himself. He keeps his eyes closed and lets his body rest more while listening to the others converse. He seems to be either preoccupied or confused about something(s).
Ingrge d20+4=22 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 6:15:01 PM
Not looking surprised That he was speaking, He looks to and speaks. "I don't, well hardly ever remember or even know what I say when I am seeing. He listens to K'nara's respeaking of the phrases asking hewr to repaet then several times while he writes them down. After a few moment of study he looks up. "This looks and sounds like and archaic form of the language the Dark elves use. I think I can translate it, though it may not be perfect. As Olanna hugs him Ingrge holds his body stiff like a board and ... wait a minute. Is ingrge blushing?
DM Kent Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 6:30:23 PM
Ingrge does indeed translate several of the phrases that K'nara repeated for him, though they seem a bit like gibberish primarily because there are several words that he can't translate, but he reads what he's got for the group.
Sarn lil sargtlin's inthen. Beware the ----- warriors!
Draa el! Two Die!
Uk zhah raldarin l'waess da'fol har'dro. He is ----- the skin from the -----.
Oloth zhah tuth abbil lueth ogglin. Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
L'elamshin d'lil Wold zhah wun dossta ssin. The Destiny of the Wold is to -------.
Ragar del huela b'luth'ol d'elghinn. Find/Use the ---- Arrows of Death.
Z'hin bauth lil del noamin colbauth. Travel ------ wandering ----.
......
Dm Kent (Continued) Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 6:46:52 PM
Figment (Cut and paste) Wednesday April 17th, 2002 9:09:29 AM
(OOC: What does Figment know about the city that is floating away? Int Check was DC 21.)
(oops sorry. If Figment has personal knowledge of Lankhamar, then he may recognize it. If he has been there then he will recognize it. If neither then he may have heard of it.) (end cut and paste)
Futher search of the room they are in reveals nothing new. From a quick look up the stairs The party can see a there are at least two more levels above this one: The staircase goes directly through the open ceiling opening to the middle floor, but as they see once up there, the stair ends at the ceiling above in what is obviously a trap door.
Upon inspection, the level directly above you is obviously the bathing and eating level.
On this level there is little of note and even if thoroughly searched you find nothing of help or value.
The trap door to the above floor seems to either be latched or blocked in some way.
Lian Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 7:21:10 PM
After two or so hours studying the scroll, Lian rolls it up and puts it away, rubs his somewhat crossed eyes, then stands and stretches. He begins his Kahta excercises. The monk listens to the words spoken across the room, he doesn't quite know what to make of the translations. "Bertram, I do not understand arcane magics. Do you?"
Milo d20+11=15 d20+11=21 Tuesday April 23rd, 2002 8:49:31 PM
Milo makes his way slowly up the stairs, checking for possible traps as he goes. When he reaches the trap door, he examines it thoroughly, attempting to discern how it opens as much as he looks for possible traps, magical or mundane. (OOC: Made a Search check DC 15/19 for magic traps, while moving up the stairs. Made a Search check DC 21/25 for magic traps on the door.)
Olana d20+1=11 d20+1=8 d20+8=15 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 2:00:15 AM
Olana follows Milo quietly up the steps, attempting to discern anything that would alert her elven senses. (Spot 11 Listen 8 Search 15 - wow)
Parts of Ingrge's vision is going through her mind - warriors? Arrows of death? What were they going to find up there?
K'Nara d20=20 Wednesday April 24th, 2002 7:57:47 AM
The redheaded human rubbed her chin, frowning in concentration.
"I hate riddles..." K'Nara muttered, then sighed. "...oh, well...not much help there. Let's check out the Tower."
Once the trapdoor had been discovered, the woman warrior scowled at the fact that it was latched (or blocked.)
"Milo...any traps?" she asked. "And...any way that you can open it? I'd hate to have to break it open, but if there's no other way, we'll have to do that." K'Nara looked around the rest of the area. "I guess we all should double-check for any secret doors while Milo's trying his hand at that trapdoor..."
(OOC: Search check is 20.)
Figment Wednesday April 24th, 2002 10:46:40 AM
The mage frowns at the barred trap door. "I have no knoch spells memorized. I am still magiced up for battle, not finesse. I would, however, suggest we not damage the door if at all possible. Somehow I think the tower would frown on that. Ingrge? Any chance you got it? If not I can rememorize and get a look on the other side of that door as well as try to open it. I won't be much help on the secret doors other than basically search for them. I would guess Milo and the elves would be best at that. ".
Falin Wednesday April 24th, 2002 4:55:42 PM
As they travel between floors Falin will keep an arrow knocked for emergencies.
"Why don't you try knocking and asking for passage? I know it sounds off the wall, but I have also seen odder things."
Grey Maulkin Wednesday April 24th, 2002 8:03:17 PM
As K'nara goes about her she gets a very familiar feeling as Gray contacts her. he seems a bit excited. Where did you say you heard these phrases? Anyway, no time for that now. here are your translations. Keep me informed!
Sarn lil sargtlin's inthen. Beware the silent warriors!
Draa el. Two Die!
Uk zhah raldarin l'waess da'fol har'dro. He is stripping the skin from the earth.
Ragar del huela b'luth'ol d'elghinn. Find/Use the Five Arrows of Death.
Oloth zhah tuth abbil lueth ogglin. Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
L'elamshin d'lil Wold zhah wun dossta ssin. The Destiny of the Wold is to conquer all.
Z'hin bauth lil del noamin colbauth. Travel along the wandering path.
Ingrge Wednesday April 24th, 2002 8:06:37 PM
Seemingly lost in his own thoughts, Ingrge almost misses what Figment asks. What? oh, umm Knock, Yes, I keep that spell handy at most times.
DM Kent Wednesday April 24th, 2002 8:10:26 PM
As the Talons make there way up to the middle floor, Milo finds absolutely no sign of traps anywhere along the stairwell or on the trap door. Neither are there any signs of any other methods of egress from this floor.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 24th, 2002 11:23:37 PM
"Lian I know nothing of such things. Where I was from, Diviners were few and far between. What about yourself, were Mages common around you?"
The Voices of Gods [CDM Jerry] Thursday April 25th, 2002 12:08:59 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.]
Lian d20+8=21 d20+14=25 Thursday April 25th, 2002 1:55:20 AM
"I know of only a few in my village Bertram, but I spent most of my free time in the monastary. I am not sure how many there were."
(OOC: Made his Will save (DC 21), oops +2 rounded down for half character levels)
(OOC: Listening for any strange sounds behind the group, DC 25)
K'Nara d20+5=18 Thursday April 25th, 2002 8:24:12 AM
(OOC: made Willpower save of 18 versus total DC15)
Just as K'Nara suddenly grinned and looked happier than anybody in the party remembered seeing her lately, the dialogue between Flower the One, Caeroldra, Ga'al and Alemi interrupted. With the deaths of the two female deities, a wave of obsessive desire gripped the tall human--powerful enough to make her gasp and step towards the men of the party.
Sarn lil sargtlin's inthen. Beware the silent warriors!
Draa el. Two Die!
Uk zhah raldarin l'waess da'fol har'dro. He is stripping the skin from the earth.
Ragar del huela b'luth'ol d'elghinn. Find/Use the Five Arrows of Death.
Oloth zhah tuth abbil lueth ogglin. Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
L'elamshin d'lil Wold zhah wun dossta ssin. The Destiny of the Wold is to conquer all.
Z'hin bauth lil del noamin colbauth. Travel along the wandering path.
Greymalkin's translation flitted across her mind, helping to break K'Nara's overwhelming desire to...to...to what?
"Listen..." the human bladesinger shook her head and addressed the other Talons, "...Greymalkin of the Gold Dragons has just gotten in touch with me..." Here she touched the silver dragon earclip he'd given her so many months ago. "He's translated the entire dialogue that Ingrge spoke while entranced." She looked at the others with sharp hazel eyes, pausing to see if anyone else had fought off the wave of obsession that had nearly overcome her own mind.
Figment d20+7=21 Thursday April 25th, 2002 10:07:46 AM
The mage looks to the others grimly as the realization that yet two more gods die. As the raw power explodes into the Wold he is somehow able to hold his desires in check - even with the warrior woman advancing toward him. He quickly decides to save that for another time...
He considers carefully the interpretation of the riddle. "Sounds like we need to find 5 arrows of death - and that perhaps silent warriors protect them. Or at least, they are between the arrows and us. Let's get on with it. Ingrge?" He waits for the mage to cast his knock spell on the trap door.
Milo Thursday April 25th, 2002 4:40:55 PM
Milo shrugs at the proclamation, grinning, he says, "I knew that... but thanks for lettin' everyone else know about the war." Milo looks skyward reverently, and then turns his attention back toward the door, to see if he can figure out how to open it up.
Olana d20+5=16 Thursday April 25th, 2002 5:53:16 PM
Olana is climbing back down the steps, getting out of the way of Figment and Ingrge, should they start blasting, when yet another tragedy of the Gods is unleashed on them.
She steps backward and, disoriented, falls on her rump. However, her distress is overtaken by something else, which seems to sweep through her like a tidal wave.
Slowly, she rises, her eyes closed, her spread fingers slowly moving up her thighs, then to her waist and above, exploring her curves. She loosens her hair, tossing it back over her shoulders in a long cascade of blonde waves. "Mmmmm....." she whispers quietly.
Suddenly, her eyes snap open - as bright and round as ice-blue saucers. "Oh!" she exclaims, somewhat startled. "Did we get that trapdoor open?"
((Made Save - only just though, I think))
Ingrge d20+5=6 Thursday April 25th, 2002 7:27:29 PM
Stepping forward to cast his spell, Ingrge motions for Milo to step aside and then with a bare motion, a few mumbled words and light knock, the entire party can hear a bar slide across the floor above. After casting, he steps back to let others move forward as the death of the love gods rolls through their minds. As Ingrge steps back, a cross between a feral growl and a moan comes out of him as he turns and watches Olana as she caresses herself. The moan gets even deeper for a moment as it turns into Olana's name and Ingrge makes a beeline for the curvacious ranger. Dropping his staff to the ground, a look of pure unadulterated lust has filled Ingrge's eyes as he crosses the space to where Olana is standing.
Falin Thursday April 25th, 2002 9:33:45 PM
As the waves of feelings wash over the party Falin gets a wild look in his eye... "What are we waiting for?!?!?", Falins voice begins to get louder, "I have waited for almost a decade for this weapon, a weapon of great power to cleanse this place of evil and reclaim that which was taken from me. I'll not wait one more minute!!!" Falin begins to make his way towards the trap door not letting anyone get in his way. As he approaches the door we will ready his bow in anticipation of what lie on the other side.
DM Kent Thursday April 25th, 2002 10:36:26 PM
As the some of the party moves forward upon the stairs to the trap door to see what is above, Ingrge is going the other way and impeding Olana's progress toward the door.
Falin falls in behind K'Nara and realizes that their leader, while gruff and strong, is still pretty darn attractive. As he is following her, another feeling comes over him and he is now sure that K'Nara has a thing for him. After all, why else would she have let a total stranger join her group so fast?
As the trap door is pushed open there is some resistance and as it moves upward a small amount of powdery gray dust slips down through the opening.
Lian d20+14=31 Thursday April 25th, 2002 11:06:52 PM
Lian watches the door open. He holds his breath when he sees the dust, not knowing what it may actually be.
"Be careful Friends, I would hate for one of you to be hurt!" he cautions, still feeling the love.
(OOC: Listening for anything, DC 31)
Milo d20+19=39 Thursday April 25th, 2002 11:39:30 PM
Turning to face Ingrge, Milo comes down the stairs as the elf casts the spell at the door, happy to have help. As he reaches ground level, Milo's attention is immediately drawn toward Olana, and genuine concern turns into relief as the spell seems to lose its grip on her. His head jerks back toward Ingrge as the elf stalks toward Olana, his intentions plain. Light on his feet, Milo charges forward stepping between Ingrge and Olana. Looking up at Ingrge, "I know I haven't been very straight forward about this... " being a cleric, Milo clearly has control of his faculties, "BUT I SAW HER FIRST! Back up Ingrge, and get a grip!" (OOC: Made a Move Silently check at -5 to my check for moving quickly. Total is DC 39)
K'Nara d20+6=23 Friday April 26th, 2002 6:51:22 AM
Ingrge's spell unbolted the trapdoor above and K'Nara grinned, anticipating the next leg of their adventure in this abandonned tower. Even as she signaled for Milo to open the door, Ingrge's sudden shift in mood jangled warning bells in her cauled head.
"Oh, not now!!!" the leader of the Talons bemoaned, then seized the artificially-smitten Ingrge in a wrestling hold by slipping her arms beneath the elf's armpits and locking her hands behind his neck. "Milo...Brother Bertram...is there any way of snapping Ingrge out of this? I think it's an adverse reaction to what we all just heard occur..."
(OOC: K'Nara's strength is 13.)
Figment Friday April 26th, 2002 10:30:44 AM
The mage frowns, knowing there is nothing he can do for his smitten friend. He muses silently how he might've used the situation to his advantage had impending combat and the fate of the Emerald City not been in the balance... Oh well.
"I'll watch the door while you guys resolve this - situation. I can be of no help I fear.". He watches the door and prepares to cast, just in case.
Olana Friday April 26th, 2002 2:32:44 PM
Olana seems most confused. Strange whispers assault her mind as she registers the look in Ingrge's eyes. A primeval call she must answer. Maybe -
Then, Milo's outburst snaps her out of it. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Let's not fight," she pleads. "We are not ourselves at this moment."
Her blue eyes look upon everyone there with affection and warmth however. To her at least, it seems the bond between the group has strengthened by more than a few notches.
Her hand lingers on Milo's shoulder momentarily.
Flueterflam d20+4=6 Friday April 26th, 2002 2:32:57 PM
(ooc: sorry for the late roll)
After the death of the goddesses, the bard is overcome with emotion. He seems to lose control of himself....
Ingrge d20+7=26 Friday April 26th, 2002 5:01:48 PM
Seeing Milo step in between him and Olanna sends bolts of fury shooting through Ingrge's head and he nearly loses all control. His facy contorts in a rictus of pure anger. Just as he is about to speak he feels the wiry K'nara grapple him from behind. With the added adrenelin of Milo's interference added to his already extraordinary strength, he flips K'nara of to one side like she was but a child playing a game. (strenth 18, opposition roll 26)
Taking several steps and bearing down on Milo, Olanna's plea to not fight finally sinks through. Almost instantly Ingrge's face noticably softens. Quickly and quietly he steps to Olanna's side, takes her hand in his, squeezes it once and then steps back toward the stairs. There are beads of moisture along his forehead and rivulets of sweat running down his face and neck.
Brother Bertram Friday April 26th, 2002 9:24:24 PM
Bertram muses the passing of yet more gods, and almost misses the exchange between the members of the party. He looks on bemused at first at the way some of the party was acting. Finally K'nara's words bring realization that things had suddenly turned serious. With a grunt he moved over to help keep Ingrge subdued. He breathes a sigh of relief seeing Ingrge suddenly seem to calm and gain control of himself.
Milo Friday April 26th, 2002 11:00:18 PM
Milo's short sword finds its way into his hand as Ingrge charges toward him, the halfling seems determined to defend himself at the very least. However, when Ingrge halts his charge, Milo lowers the weapon, grateful that he didn't have to use it on his friend. Milo takes a deep breath, relaxing himself as he resheaths the weapon. Looking up at Olana briefly, Milo speaks in a near whisper, "I am myself, but perhaps myself is a conversation for another time." Milo blushes furiously, realizing that he cannot find the words he wants. Embarrassed at his lack of discretion, he turns to follow the group up the stairs.
K'Nara Saturday April 27th, 2002 8:07:54 AM
The human bladesinger went somersaulting through the air and landed flat on her back, knocking the wind out of her.
"Well...that trap door does seem dusty, now, doesn't it..?" K'Nara mused out loud as she studied the ceiling from her supremely dignified position on the floor.
Lian d20+11=25 d20+14=21 d20+6=9 Saturday April 27th, 2002 4:25:39 PM
The young elf seems to snicker softly at Milo and Olana's exhibition. Then the soft snicker turns to silence as K'nara hits the floor.
OOC: As they move up the stairs, Lian attempts to step lightly and listens and watches, 25, 21 and 9 respectively.
DM kent Sunday April 28th, 2002 7:52:19 PM
As the Talons make their way onto the floor of this level, the first thing they notice is that unlike the lower floors, this one is entirely covered in a thick blanket of fine gray dust that billows up with each step. This is also the first of the rooms that isn't well lit. The taint and smell of the undead can be noticed by those who make a knowledge roll of DC 12. As they make their way into the barracks room a sound is heard coming from an adjoining room. Moments later six figures emerge from the room. They are wearing what appear to be the remains of matched uniforms of the tower warders.
Figment 7d6(6+1+3+4+5+5+2)=26 Sunday April 28th, 2002 8:02:53 PM
The mage doesn't immediately place the foul odor but wastes no time when the creatures appear. He frowns at the revolting sight of these creatures and immediately casts a fireball on them hoping to not only exterminate the cretaures, but the stench as well (note: since there is no dimensions have been given, I'm assuming he can cast it without engulfing the party. If there is not room, he opts for a split lightining bolt - same damage [26].).
Olana d20+10=30 d20+2=15 Sunday April 28th, 2002 8:52:10 PM
Olana gives Milo a smile, and then sighs as she watches Ingrge climb the stairs.
Then she helps K'Nara back on her feet.
Up on the next floor, her nostrils flare as the dust rises. (Knowledge - Nature DC30)
"This place above the trapdoor has not been disturbed in a long time," she says. "And there is death here that walks."
As the creatures emerge from the next room she attempts to get a better look at them without looking directly in their eyes. Are they skeletons? In which case her ranged weapons would be useless, or something more sustantial? Were they what was left of elves? or a cruel parody?(Spot DC 15)
Lian d20+6=20 d8-1=1 d8+14=16 d20+14=28 Monday April 29th, 2002 12:57:08 AM
Lian waits (readies an action) for Bertram to move in toward the foulness. When Bertram moves, Lian will take up a flanking position and will strike at it.
Hitting AC 20 (not including flank) for 1 point of DMG.
Lian's AC versus his opponent is 20, that include his Dodge and Bracers.
OOC: Listening for more movement other than the ones immediately withing sight, DC 28. (Disregard the d8+14 roll, I forgot to adjust the dice) ALSO OOC: I couldn't remember if undead can or can't be flanked.
K'Nara d20=19 Monday April 29th, 2002 7:52:38 AM
K'Nara smiled grimly as she took Olana's hand and righted herself.
"Thanks!" she said briefly but sincerely, then told the Talons about finally getting through to her master Greymalkin of the Gold Dragons, along with his take on the Drow dialogue spoken by Ingrge during his trance.
Once the Talons were through the trap door, the stench was unmistakeable...undead were nearby, K'Nara just knew it.
"Heads up!" the human bladesinger said upon the appearance of the six figures. As Figment let loose with his spell, K'Nara instinctively reached over her shoulder to pull out--
"Lucia!"
The repaired bastard sword flamed to life, and K'Nara fell into her battle-ready stance to see the outcome of the mage's attack.
Milo d20+1=11 Monday April 29th, 2002 10:30:26 AM
As the creatures emerge and are subsequently bombarded by Figment's magic, Milo steps up next to the wizard, and holding his holy symbol up prominently, "Feel Alemi's Wrath!" (OOC: Made a turn check DC 11, I don't think that does it.)
DM Kent Monday April 29th, 2002 8:57:16 PM
The Talons all get up stairs and into the room as Figment's spell goes off catching S4 and S5 in the fiery blast. As the fire and smoke clears and Milo tries to turn them and feels their malice turned back on himself. The five beasties that you can see are really large and ugly skeletons. Milo feels a palpable evil coming from the shape at the rear of the room, just moments before YOU ALL are overcome by a wave of fear.
(Will DC 17 or flee in panic. Those that fail and flee need to make a dex check to not fall off the railess stairs.)
Brother Bertram d20+8=26 Monday April 29th, 2002 9:06:35 PM
Bertram feels the horror of the creatures wash over him and tries to resist the urge to turn and run in terror from the fiends. Bertram realizes the feeling has abated and roars out his rage and charges towards the foul creatures.
Milo d20+6=16 d20+6=20 Monday April 29th, 2002 9:12:47 PM
Milo feels the wave of evil permeate his very being, and for a split second he considers fleeing this unholy place, but steeling himself, the halfling instead casts protection from evil on himself, and moves in behind Bertram, drawing his short sword. (OOC: Initially failed the saving throw by 1, spent one hero point for a reroll and hit DC 20)
Lian Monday April 29th, 2002 10:18:11 PM
Lian attempts to avoid the undead. He scurries up the wall (using the slippers) and moves to the ceiling.
Falin d20+3=4 d20+6=13 Monday April 29th, 2002 10:46:31 PM
Falin rushes forward to do battle then the fear takes hold of him and he drops his bow in an attepmt to remove himself from the presence of the fear. He runs down the stairs to place as much distance between himself and this place.
(OCC: rolled a 1 on my will save, so Falin is gone with the wind.)
Olana d20+5=15 d20+5=23 d20+7=8 d20+9=20 d10+3=11 Monday April 29th, 2002 11:28:58 PM
((Also re-rolled Will Save using a Hero Point - DC15 becomes DC 23 phew))
Olana gasps audibly as the wave of horror almost overcomes her. It takes a conscious effort to draw both her longswords and make a move on Skeleton 6.
Twisting the blades so they sweep flat, rather than on edge, she spins around, lending herself momentum - *WHAP* hitting the skeleton once, and again *WHAP* as hard as she can with the flat of her blades. (One possible hit for 11 DAM)
"That rhyme!" she yells, trying to think hard - "mentioned some arrows - and darkness being friend and enemy!"
Lian d20+8=15 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 2:09:27 AM
Failed Will Save, but if it's enchantment, +4 versus for 19.
K'Nara d20+5=22 d20+8=16 d10+4=10 d6=6 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 7:41:38 AM
"Domi's blood!" K'Nara gasped as the wave of fear slammed into her very soul. She used her hard-practiced bladesinger discipline once more to overcome the effect, then settled herself into the dancing style of combat, advancing upon S1 and striking at it with Lucia.
(OOC: made the save; hits AC16 for 10hp damage and 6hp additional fire damage.)
Flueterflam d20+4=13 d20+1=20 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 8:20:39 AM
As the bard is overcome by a horrible dread, his feet take him in the direction he just came. Without taking any mind to how dangerous the path is Fluet scurries down the stairs as quickly as he can. (ooc: Failed Will, Dex DC 20)
Figment d20+7=23 7d6(4+1+1+5+2+6+2)=21 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 4:26:54 PM
Prepared for the wave of fear he knows will probably come (a relatively common undead ability), the mage braces for it with some success (DC 23). He quickly moves over behind K'Nara and lines up Skeleton #2 and the source of the terror (back of the room) and launches a bolt of lightning at them - making sure to catch both in its deadly blast (note, if the distance prevents it then he focuses on the one at the back.).
DM Kent 3d4(4+3+1)+3=11 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 5:49:28 PM
(enemy ACs are at least 17)
Fluet, Falin and Lian start to move forward to aid their friends and then as the fear washes over them, they turned and ran for the exit. Fluet and Falin make it down the two sets of stairs with no mishaps. (Lian I still need your Dex roll vs DC12.) As you make it to the ground floor the fear lessons to a point where you no longer need to flee but neither do you want to return. (You may attempt to return in two rounds if you pass your will save DC 16 at -2)
Figment realizes that his only real target is the shadowy figure at the rear as S2 moves up with S1. As his bolt scurries across the room toward his target, He sees a flash of something from that end of the room as well.
K'nara moves forward and launches into S1 as she notes that S2 is coming to join forces. that momentary loss of focus allows her opponent to just avoid being hit by her flaming sword.
Olanna lights into S3(there is no S6) and does indeed succeed with her second strike.
Bertram makes it to his foe (s4) and realizes that he just let himself open for an attack of opportunity.
Milo follows closely behind the charging dwarf.
Ingrge casts quickly seeing K'nara faced by two opponents and his 3 bolts of energy streak toward S2 striking him squarely
DM Kent 8d6(2+1+2+4+5+2+3+2)=21 d20+5=6 d20+5=13 d20+5=12 d20+5=13 d20+5=12 d20+5=14 d20+5=9 d20+5=23 d20+5=13 d20+5=15 d20+5=12 d20+5=11 d20+5=20 d8+4=5 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 5:56:41 PM
As Figment's lightening bolt flies across the room it nearly crosses paths with a fireball coming the other way. (Ingrge and figment 21 points or half with reflex DC16.)
K'nara's foes each strike out with two long wicked looking talons and miss.
Bertram's foe also misses three times.
Olanna's foe claws at her and connects for 5 points.
Flueterflam Tuesday April 30th, 2002 7:29:16 PM
The bard mumbles somewhat incoherently to Falin about how scary those things were as they reach the bottom. He suddenly becomes worried about the others who stupidly stayed up top. However, his concern for them does not overpower his nerves which are shot from fright.
To Falin, "Why did they stay up there?? Whatever was up there so scary, I can't even imagine what they would have done to us if we stayed." Although Fluet is slowly calming down, he still is shaking slightly.
Olana d20+7=17 d20+9=26 d8+3=5 d10+3=7 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 7:35:38 PM
(Whoops, sorry I got my Skeleton Numbers mixed up)
Blocking out the blow from Skeleton 3 - Olana growls and spins around again, fast and hard - once - twice, hammering at the brittle bones of her attacker with the flat of her swords. (Hits AC 17 and 26 for possible damage of 5 and 7)
Milo (Invisible) d20+4=22 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 8:14:46 PM
Seeing the fireball go off, Milo activates his ring of invisibility, and then turns toward the enemy spellcaster, running as quietly as he can.(OOC: Took a -20 to my check for running. Made a Move Silently check at DC 22 anyways. Yeah baby!)
Lian d20+3=22 d20+11=22 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 8:57:50 PM
(Dex Check 22)
Lian scurries along the wall back toward the entrance, then he drops (using the wall to slow the drop if greater than 15 foot drop) to the floor landing on his feet (Tumble Check 22).
He stops at the door to watch the fray.
Brother Bertram d20+6=26 d20+6=14 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 10:06:54 PM
Bertram grins as the foul creature swings with no effect. "My turn, Evil One". Bertram enjoys the feel of the axe biting into the creature's bones, but grimaces as he feels the blade deflect somewhat. Despite this setback he roars to his friend farther down the hall. "Come, Friend Lian! These creatures can be defeated! We have handled worse, Now come, FIGHT WITH ME!"
Figment d20+5=6 3d4(4+2+1)+3=10 d4+1=5 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 11:02:48 PM
OOC: Figment is behind K'Nara so she has to save too if Figment does - as does S1 and S2.
The mage misses his save badly and takes the full force of the fireball (if he got hit with it at all). He lines up his opponent and hits him with 4 magic missiles (15 DMG). And he prepares to cast yet again.
Figment, cont. d20+5=6 3d4(4+2+1)+3=10 d4+1=5 Tuesday April 30th, 2002 11:04:26 PM
The mage calls out to Ingrge "Focus on the caster - he's the biggest threat!"
K'Nara d20=15 d20=4 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 1:03:50 PM
(OOC: I'm posting away from home, so I don't have K'Nara's sheet with me. The first roll is for her Dexterity save versus the fireball [if she has to make one], and the second was for her attempt to strike at her foe again, which I know is a dismal failure.)
K'Nara just barely danced out of the way of the incoming fireball, but at the expense of having her sword come even remotely close to either of the skeletons within her strike range.
Ingrge d20+7=8 6d6(6+4+2+4+2+3)=21 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 7:57:16 PM
Focussing on K'nara's opponents Ingrge fails to see the incoming fireball until to late and took the full brunt of the blast. As he recovers his composure he nods his response to Figment and without hesitation fires off a fireball response of his own. (21 points DC17)
DM Kent d100=70 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:09:48 PM
Falin , Lian and Fluet are down on the entry level two flights down recovering their wits. (you may return this round for next round if you make a Fort DC of 16 at a -1)
K'nara feels the wash of heat as the fireball explodes behind her catching Figment and Ingrge and as she dodges flame she does indeed miss her foe.
Olanna continues to batter at her foe with the flat of her blades even thought he blades are taking a beating themselves.
Bertram slams into the skeleton on him and is feels some joy as he watches a bone fragment or two flake off. His joy soon passes as S5 joins his other opponent.
Figment casts his missiles and watches as they strike his opponent.
Milo takes off around the corner of the table and feels the fiery blast lick at his heels spurring his speed as he covers 60 feet of the distance to the shadowy figure and needs to make another will save of DC16 or run away.
DM Kent d20+4=19 d20+4=22 d20+4=22 d20+4=24 d20+4=12 4d8(7+5+7+6)+16=41 d20+4=24 d20+4=5 d20+4=9 d8+4=5 d20+4=20 d20+4=11 d20+4=23 d20+4=13 d20+4=11 2d8(8+1)+8=17 d20+8=21 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:20:17 PM
K'nara's opponenets take her lack of attack as a sign of weakness striking and connecting four times (poss crit crit miss) for 41 points of damage.
Olanna's attacker hits once (poss crit misses) for 5 points.
Not being able to see milo Ingrge's fireball catches him as well (21 points reflex DC17 for 10 points).
The shadowy figure again casts and suddenly things around him go absolutely pitch black.
Brother Bertram d20+6=13 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 8:44:51 PM
Bertram roars as the claws connect, pain shooting through his side. He swings his axe at the one that him, but to his disgust the axe merely clips the creatures bones and bounces away, doing no damage. He waits to feel the claws of the other take advantage of his, perhaps fatal, mistake.
Falin d20+2=11 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 9:21:47 PM
Falin is still unable to climb the stairs. The fear in his heart is too great. He is torn between his fear and hearing his comrades fighting.
To Fluet: "I must overcome my fear soon or the shame that I will feel if someone dies will be to great for me to continue on."
Falin starts to prep himself for another attempt at the staircase. All he can think about is his bow laying on the floor upstairs.
Milo (Invisible, Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+8=28 d20+12=17 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 9:35:57 PM
Milo feels the wave of fear strike him, and wash over his protection from evil spell, granted by the good grace of Alemi. The fireball is a little more tricky however as the halfling rogue barely evades its fiery heat. Stopping just outside the darkness, Milo reaches into his satchel and pulls out a potion of haste, drinking it quickly. With the extra partial action the haste gives him this round he casts shield of faith on himself, and then circles twenty-feet around the darkness to his right. (OOC: Made Will save at DC 28. Made Reflex save at DC 17 evading all damage from the fireball.)
Olana d20+7=11 d20+9=22 d10+3=10 Wednesday May 1st, 2002 10:17:34 PM
Heeding the wear and tear of her blades, Olana stops spinning, and crouches, slicing edge on at her foe, hopefully landing one blow. (AC22 for 10 dam - only half damage this time?)
Lian d20+6=9 d20+14=20 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 2:35:24 AM
"Bertram, I would, but I am terrified, Friend!"
Lian stands, shaking at the thought of going back into the room.
Lian watches (and listens to) the corridor and room with interest, (Spot Check 0f 9 and Listen Check of 20)
(OOC: 1 round away from making another save to go back in)
K'Nara d20=13 d10=7 d6=6 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 1:48:42 PM
(OOC: still away from home computer--but I think that K'Nara connects this time!)
Reeling from the pain and the massive damage of the blows from her two undead opponents, K'Nara gritted her teeth and whirled Lucia downwards upon the head of S1.
"Whatever you do--" she told Figment, "--make it snappy...I don't know how long I can hold off two of these soulless things..."
Figment Thursday May 2nd, 2002 5:37:04 PM
Seeing K'Nara take the tremendous punishment, the mage casts stoneskin on the warrior woman (7 - 10/+5) "I have no idea what we face yet - a lich perhaps - so here's some help for you!".
Ingrge 6d6(4+4+6+4+5+6)=29 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 11:20:27 PM
Taking a moment to assess whether or not he can really affect any of the combats without badly injuring one of his own, ingrge again opts for sending a fireball barrelling into the circle of darkness (29 points refex DC 17)
DM kent Thursday May 2nd, 2002 11:27:50 PM
Lian Falin and Fluet still downstairs can make an attempt to return with a will DC of 16.
Figment casts his spell on K'nara and sees the tell tale shimmer of the stoneskins taking their place.
Olana and K'nara's attacks do indeed connect doing damage to their respective foes.
Bertram stoically awaits what he fears may be the end of him.
Ingrge's spell goes off without a hitch and is absorbed by the blackness and what happens to it is unknown.
Milo creeps around the bunks to get against the wall and again feels the heat of fire nearby.
DM kent d20+4=6 d20+4=5 d20+4=12 d20+4=13 d20+4=16 d20+4=13 d20+4=15 d20+4=15 d20+4=15 Thursday May 2nd, 2002 11:32:42 PM
Knara's attackers both miss with their attacks as do the two on bertram though he feels the claws rip through the fabric of his cloak. Olanna's foe also misses clipping off some of the hair on her head and giving her a closer shave than she is used to.
Olana d20+7=24 d20+9=26 d8+3=5 d10+3=9 Friday May 3rd, 2002 12:52:33 AM
Dodging the claws of her opponant, she has no time to lament the loss of a few locks of hair. Seeing an opening, she brings both blades edges up, and then down hard, slicing into the monster before her. (AC 24,26 for 5 and 9 DAM)
"Get up here! We need you!" she cries out desperately to those below.
((Next post - Sunday Evening))
Milo (Invisible, Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+19=34 d20+9=17 Friday May 3rd, 2002 1:15:18 AM
With his cloak pulled tightly about him, Milo slips quickly into the edge of the darkness, and moves quietly through, placing all his concentration on listening for the enemy. Aware that his opponent may move once in the confines of the darkness, Milo does as well, walking his full move straight forward, back toward his friends while listening.(OOC: Made a Move Silently check with a self-imposed -5 for walking normal speed at DC 34. Made a Listen check at DC 17. Full move is up to 60 ft. with haste [40 ft. normal plus 20 ft. extra partial action])
Lian d20+8=26 Friday May 3rd, 2002 1:55:24 AM
(Will save made, 26)
Lian begins up stairs, at full movement of 80.
"Bertram! I am on my way Friend!"
Moving to meet Bertram, and his opponents.
Flueterflam d20+4=6 Friday May 3rd, 2002 3:06:31 AM
"I am sorry friends, I just can't." The bard shakes in his fear. (ooc: Will failed) He looks up towards his comrades and just says in the back of his mind, 'It will be ok....It will be ok.'
K'Nara (Stoneskin) d20+8=25 d10+4=6 d6=4 Friday May 3rd, 2002 6:21:36 AM
"Thanks, Figment..!" K'Nara said to the mage as she felt the stoneskin materialize around her. Then she attacked the skeleton in front of her (S1) again. (OOC: hits AC25 for 6hp damage and 4hp fire damage.)
Figment d20+2=20 Friday May 3rd, 2002 9:41:18 AM
Suspecting that the caster is going invisible, the mage does likewise (Improved Invis). He moves around K'Nara and the 2 creatures whispering "You're welcome." to the warrior woman. Moving to the top of the room near the bunk beds (behind the creatures on K'Nara - but well away from them) he begins looking and listening for any sign of the caster (Listen DC 20).
Falin d20+3=8 Friday May 3rd, 2002 12:16:44 PM
Falin still can not force himself up the stairs.
Brother Bertram d20+6=26 d20+6=23 d10+5=10 Friday May 3rd, 2002 8:30:27 PM
Bertram greets Lian's cry with one of his own as he surges forward again attacking the one that hit him, swinging the axe powerfully, feeling his arms jar with the force of the mighty swing. (OOC Crit roll for Damage)
Ingrge Saturday May 4th, 2002 2:49:49 PM
With staff in hand, and knowing full well that he is inviting an attack, Ingrge moves to engage one of K'nara's foes.
DM Kent d20+4=10 d20+4=18 Saturday May 4th, 2002 3:06:30 PM
Bertram does indeed fell the impact of his mighty ax blow as he cleaves into S4 and several ribs break off and fall to the floor.
Figment does indeed hear something moving in the middle of the room for a moment and then is not sure.
Milo too hears something moving ahead of him as he comes out of the darkness but can not pinpoint the location of the scuffle.
K'nara once again feels the satisfaction of having her old friend at hand again and connecting with an enemy. As her blow lands she sees bone chips fly but realized that the fire is probably as, if not more effective that the blade itself.
Fluet and Falin look at each other and then look back upwards as Lian sprints back up the two flights of stairs. (Will DC 15 to return)
Lian sprints up the two flights of stairs and manages not trip and fall off the narrow stairs. As he enters the barraks and looks around he sees K'nara and Ingrge facing two skeletons, and Bertram and Olanna facing three skeletons. Lian sees no sign of Milo or Figment but does notice that there is a large area in complete darkness at the rear of the room.
Olanna's twin blades slice through several bones and leave chips falling to the ground.
Ingrge makes his move and charges into the fray, leaving himself open for an attack in an effort to distract one of the skeleton from carving further furrows into k'nara.
DM Kent d20+4=12 d20+4=14 d20+4=14 d20+4=9 d20+4=5 d20+4=14 d20+4=20 d20+4=21 d20+4=14 d20+4=8 d20+4=9 d20+4=18 d8+4=11 2d8(2+5)+8=15 d8+4=8 d20+7=19 d4+3=7 Saturday May 4th, 2002 3:20:22 PM
As Ingrge moves in S1 turns and claws twice at him connecting once and then attacks again missing twice. (11 points)
Bertram's two opponents attack from both sides and having Bertram sandwiched between them is struck once.(for 8 more points)
Just as Lian finishes taking in the scene in the room a dagger flashes into existance about 15 feet in front of him and flies unerringly toward him and is stopped only by his own body as he is used as a pincushion (7 points damage and fortitude save DC 13 - poison)6 addtional damage if fail)
Falin d20+3=7 Sunday May 5th, 2002 8:03:39 AM
Falin is still caught in the web of fear weaved by the creature on the floor above.
Figment (Improved Invis, 99 rounds left) 4d4(1+4+3+4)+4=16 d20+3=17 Sunday May 5th, 2002 11:11:28 AM
Not getting a clear bead on his adversary, the mage decides to blast one of the creatures he can see. He blasts S1 who is doing damage to Ingrge, hoping to free him up for the real fight so he can cast. Once done he immediately flees his position since it should be obvious to the invisible foes where he now is. He races straight south and leaps up on the table in the center of the room, hops down on the other side, and then immediately cuts east over towards the darkness area (probably over near Milo, though he doesn't know it). (Made Dex check DC 17).
Flueterflam d20+4=10 Sunday May 5th, 2002 8:34:48 PM
The bard trembles, still unable to move himself forward.
K'Nara d20=15 d20+8=16 Monday May 6th, 2002 6:43:25 AM
K'Nara's brow furrowed as she analyzed the damage she was--or, more accurately, was not--doing to the skeleton she was fighting. Then an all-but-forgotten piece of lore filtered into her mind: swords were not the best weapons to use against skeletons! (OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check.)
The human bladesinger groaned--she didn't have any other weapons besides Lucia and that scimitar on her...she'd have to keep hacking away at her foes and hope that the fire from the blade would help to destroy the corrupted corpses.
It didn't help that her sudden insight caused K'Nara to flinch and miss one of her opponents again, though.
Milo d20+8=23 d20+9=23 Monday May 6th, 2002 10:05:28 AM
Noticing the dagger mysteriously appearing in mid-air to strike Lian, Milo moves toward where he believes the source of that dagger is, listening intently for any sound that would betray his friend's attacker. (OOC: Made a Spot check to notice the dagger attack DC 23. Then made a Listen check DC 23)
Olana d20+7=8 d20+9=27 d10+3=9 Monday May 6th, 2002 12:14:08 PM
The elf continues to hack away at her opponant, losing some of her finesse as she sustains wounds from the creature's claws, and only connecting with one blade. (DAM 9 on AC27)
Right now, she wished she could fight like Lian and punch the thing's head right off. She was beginning to get annoyed with this critter.
Brother Bertram d20+6=24 d10+5=7 Monday May 6th, 2002 9:10:25 PM
Bertram reels but again strikes at the creature, and is rewarded seeing more bones smash away from the creature's body. He sees Lian fall and roars his anger, thinking the lad dead.
(OOC 7)
Lian d20+11=28 d8-1=3 d20+6=20 Monday May 6th, 2002 10:17:55 PM
Looking around, Lian watches the dagger appear in midair and bats it away like such rubbish. (OOC: Die rolls for deflecting the dagger are in the previous private post Kent)
"Okay, where are you!" Looks around briefly, and seeing no one, Lian moves to his dwarven friend. "What is wrong Bertram my Friend? Sorry it took me so long. " Tumbling to a fighting position across from Bertram (flanking). Lian cartwheels between Bertram, S4 and S5(Tumble Check of 28)through the occupied areas, where Bertram and the skeleton are. Hitting the S4 (AC 22 Flanking) for 3 points of DMG.
Lian's AC versus S4 is 20 using his Dodge.
Ingrge d20+10=23 d6+5=10 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 4:47:25 PM
Smashing his staff into his opponent (10 points), Ingrge grins as the skeleton is blasted by Figment's missiles as well. Taking a moment to make a decision Ingrge stands ready for a retaliation.
DM Kent d20+4=22 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 5:02:30 PM
Lian tries to deflect the dagger flying at him and realizes that he is unable to deflect it (must be aware of the attack before it occurs for the feat to work)(7 points damage. Made fortitude save I rolled for you) He definitely sees where the dagger came from but there is no one there. As he tumbles across between Bertram and the skeletons, he opens himself up to an attack of opportunity, as he comes to a stop.
Olanna is surprised as her last attack seems to make a big difference as the skeleton crumbles in front of her.
Between Ingrge's and and Figment's attacks, Ingrge is saved from an attack as the skeleton flies to pieces.
Bertram does indeed see several more bones fly from his opponent, but it remains standing in front of him.
K'nara continues to be frustrated by her lack of success but is much happier now that she is facing only one opponent.
Falin and Fluet can return with a will save of DC14.
Milo makes his move as he sees the dagger appear and manages to hear a light scuffle as if some one was moving away from the area .
...
DM Kent d20+4=6 d20+4=13 d20+4=12 d20+4=6 d20+4=22 d20+4=24 d20+4=15 d20+7=8 d8+4=5 d8+4=7 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 5:09:56 PM
K'nara breathes a sigh of relief as S2 claws at her twice missing both times.
Bertram too is relieved as his opponent whiffs as well.
After Lian goes tumbling through and stops, S4 slashes at him connecting (AC 22)for 5 points and then after Lian's attack is hit once more for 7 points.
Olanna feeling a bit better now that her opponent has fallen is extremely surprised as she feels the nearness of cold pass by her neck and feels the movement of the air, as if something just clawed by her but missed.
Figment 4d4(2+1+3+3)+4=13 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 5:57:07 PM
Seeing Lian is probably faring least well, the mage blasts S4 with a magic missle, hitting the thing squarely. He then quickly moves again south and west to just in front of the rotting beds so the Lian is directly North of him. He continues to scan for signs of the invisible foe (13 DMG).
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 7th, 2002 8:37:39 PM
Bertram shields his eyes as the one skeleton in front of him literally explodes from Figment's blast. Ignoring the others, he turns and grabs Lian by the collar and moves back from the creatures dragging him to relative safety.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+5=14 d20+5=21 d20+5=19 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 10:09:37 PM
Milo steps to where he thinks he heard the shuffling and swings fast, his sword cutting through the air in his attack. As he does so, he quickly fades in, becoming visible. (OOC: Milo hit ACs 14, 21, and 19 respectively. I believe their is a 50% mischance because of invisibility. I'll let you roll that.)
Flueterflam d20+4=13 Tuesday May 7th, 2002 11:09:46 PM
Flueterflam's heart flutters with some slight courage, but the fear is so strong that he doubts himself and his abilities. He stands there as thought his feet were planted trees, unable to pull out of the earth and take him to his destination.
Lian d20+4=5 d20+4=21 d8-1=4 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 1:18:29 AM
Cut by the dagger and slashed by the skeleton, Lian staggers from the blows. Lian jumps from the missile hitting the skeleton and moves behind S5.
The young elf blastes the skeleton with several fast blows (flurry of blows), missing with the first blow and hitting with the second for 4 points of DMG.
Olana d20+7=19 d20+9=14 d8+3=4 d10+3=5 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 1:43:58 AM
"There's something here!!" exclaims the elf, after feeling a coldness that makes her shudder. "Has it come out of the blackness??"
She begins a wild sweep with her blades, shifting them up by about a foot as soon as she see's Milo shimmer into view.
Holding both blades together, she draws a complete horizontal circle with the deadly edges. Whatever it was - if it was still around, she'd have a chance at attacking it, hopefully. (Mere possibilities - ACs 19 and 14, for 4 and 5 DAM)
K'Nara d20+8=25 d10+4=13 d6=5 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 7:19:09 AM
Swinging her blazing bastard sword at S2 (OOC: hits AC25 for 13hp damage and 5hp fire damage), K'Nara yelled the following advice:
"If we have invisible foes, stir up the dust in the room! That should make anything invisible suddenly visible again..!"
Falin d20+3=22 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 8:35:20 AM
Courage swells through his entire being as Falin cries out a war cry and charges up the stairs to retrieve his abandend weapon.
Ingrge d20+10=11 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 4:54:15 PM
"Nice strike K'nara, now lets see what wood can do to these guys." Ingrge follows his comments with a full staff strike putting everything he has into this strike and nearly takes K"nara down as the skeleton somehow perfectly times a duck.
DM Kent d100=59 d20+3=16 d20+3=21 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 5:24:33 PM
Knara's strike literally rips half the skeletons ribs away causing it to bend over just as Ingrge swings his staff. K'nara has no time to relish her strike as she has to dodge Ingrge swinging stick.
Milo flashes into visiblity several feet behind Olanna with his blade flashing and is rewarded with the feel of a his sword striking flesh with his second swing. (I rolled damage for you)
Olanna literally swings into action, doing her imitation of a windmill, and while she manages to miss Milo, she also misses everything else.
Figment's missiles slam into S4 sending bone fragments everywhere, but leaving the skelly still standing.
Bertram opens himself up for an attack of opportunity as he pulls Lian out of harms way only to watch him pull loose and dive right back into the fray, his fists and feet moving like a small turbinestriking out at the skeleton nearby.
Falin finally gets his courage up and rushes back to join the fray and makes it safely back to the room's entrance, leaving Fluet shivering below.
DM Kent d2=2 d20+4=14 d20+4=20 d8+4=6 d20+4=14 d20+4=15 d20+4=24 d20+4=24 d8+4=10 d8+4=10 d20+4=21 d20+4=9 d8+4=8 d2=2 d20+7=9 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 5:41:45 PM
S2 takes exception to Ingrge trying to clobber him and strikes back at the elf connecting with his second set od talons for 6 points.
As Bertram rushes into grab Lian, S4 swings at him and misses and then comes after him in all seriousness missing the first time, but connecting with his last claw strike and sinks his claws deeply into the dwarfs side (double nat 20) for 20 points of damage.
After his attack Lian himself is attacked by S5 connecting on the first attack and tearing a chunk out of his side. (damage 8 points)
As Milo comes out of invisibility and makes his strikes he feels a cold movement of air near his cheek and feels something snag momentarily in his clothes.
Lian d100=69 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 5:59:32 PM
Lian falls, bleeding.
Flueterflam d20+4=13 Wednesday May 8th, 2002 7:38:51 PM
(ooc: how unlucky, 2 13's in a row)
The bard sees Falin run up ahead, back to the others. But allow this sparks a bit of courage, again he cannot move himself due to the cold, dreadful fear.
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 8th, 2002 10:13:00 PM
Bertram growls as Lian rushes back in but then lets out a horrific scream, as the claws make contact with him, and he staggers but manages to grab the Lian and drag him away groggily, ignoring the pain in his back, and the warm trickle running down his legs, his lifeblood dripping away drop by drop.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+6=13 d20+6=19 d20+6=19 d6+1=7 d6+1=7 Thursday May 9th, 2002 1:14:53 AM
Milo continues his assault upon his invisible opponent, slicing through the air at where he believes him to be. (OOC: Milo takes three swings hitting ACs 13, 19, and 19 respectively. If either of the 19s hit they do 7 hps each.)
Olana d20+7=16 d20+9=25 d8+3=4 d10+3=9 Thursday May 9th, 2002 1:27:48 AM
Olana moves into action at the same time as Milo, keeping her blades high she swipes once more at where she thinks the monster is. (Hits 16 and 25 for 4 and 9)
Figment (Improved Invis) 4d4(2+4+1+3)+4=14 Thursday May 9th, 2002 8:57:01 AM
Seeing the others engage the invisible foe the mage is at least relieved that it has been found. Knowing he can do nothing for his friends against it without hurting them - or worse - he focuses instead on the creatures he can see.
He is horrified as the young elf falls to the ground and determines to help them again seeing them faring worst of all. He blasts S4 or S5 again with a magic missle (14 DMG) - depending on which one looks the closest to going down.
Falin Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:04:49 AM
Falin recovers his bow and knocks an arrow. He steadies his gaze and wonders what the rest of the party is doing swinging at nothing. Have they all gone mad?
K'Nara d20+8=19 d10+4=7 d6=4 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:19:57 AM
The human bladesinger panted hard--the unnaturally viscious blows she'd suffered at the very beginning of the battle were now telling of the serious damage they'd done to her, but K'Nara knew she couldn't afford to stop her assault now, so she let out a holler of determination as she swung back into S2 yet again. (OOC: hits AC19 for 7hp damage and 4hp fire damage.)
Ingrge 6d6(6+3+5+4+4+6)=28 Thursday May 9th, 2002 5:07:52 PM
Grinning as the skeleton in front of him falls, Lian's scream registers and he turns that way just as hesees Figment's missiles blast another to calcium deposits. Making a snap decision and calculation, Ingrge casts a spell seemingly toward the far end of the table away from the action. A fireball comes into being exploding and spreading outward just engulfing the remaining visible skeleton. (28 points reflex DC 17 for 14 points)
DM Kent d20+3=11 d20+4=9 d20+4=11 Thursday May 9th, 2002 5:15:04 PM
Knara's strike destroys her opponent as do Figments missiles. S5 tries to catch bertram as he pulls Lian out of the way but misses. Fluet still is trying to regain his full courage and can return with a will DC roll of 12. Falin finds his bow and nocks an arrow. Ingrge's spell goes off without a hitch obliterating the table and catching S5 it the backlash.
Milo can feel that his opponent is nearby but came up empty with his attacks.
Olanna just knows that her second attack would have skewered the invisible foe if only it had been any where near her.
DM Kent d20+7=24 Thursday May 9th, 2002 5:22:12 PM
S5 staggers out of the fiery circle and stumbles southward.
The invisible foe reaches out and Milo feels a claw just brush the edge of his shoulder. A deep chill of death briefly touches him and is then gone. (AC 24)
Flueterflam d20+4=24 Thursday May 9th, 2002 5:57:49 PM
(ooc: finally...)
The bard roars as a sudden warmth sears through his veins and obliterates the chills and fears. Fluet storms back into the room and unsheathes his +2 short sword as he runs up the stairs.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+6=20 d6+1=4 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:20:50 PM
Feeling himself coming down from the haste potion he drank, and realizing that his magical speed is all that is saving him from death's touch, Milo quickly snatches another potion of haste from his satchel and quickly drinks the contents, renewing his attack with vigor. "I need more help locking this guy down, if someone could flank him for me that would be great. Watch out... his touch is death." (OOC: Takes one attack hitting AC 20 for 4 hps of damage.)
Lian d100=44 Thursday May 9th, 2002 9:32:05 PM
Still bleeding.
Olana Friday May 10th, 2002 2:35:21 AM
Olana suddenly remembers something that K'Nara said, and scoops up dust, hurling it behind Milo. But would it highlight the invisible beastie monster thingy with the death touch?
K'Nara Friday May 10th, 2002 8:16:52 AM
The tall woman warrior grinned as the last of the skeletons in her section finally fell to pieces. Before she could even think of celebrating the hard-won victory, however, the fact that Lian was gravely injured and that Milo was still trying to outmaneuver an invisible foe registered on her brain.
K'Nara stopped, then cast True Strike upon herself, intending to attempt to take advantage of Olana's dust-tossing tactics...hopefully...
Falin d20+1=20 d20+13=22 d20+13=14 d8+2=8 d8+2=4 Friday May 10th, 2002 10:04:37 AM
Falin will pause and look at the floor for movement in the dust but without a body above it to move the dust. As the dust moves he will fire two arrows into the space above it.
(OCC: Spot check of 20. AC's of 22 and 14. Dmg 8 and 4 respectively)
Figment (Improved Invis - 97 Rounds left) 4d4(1+4+4+4)+4=17 Friday May 10th, 2002 2:57:59 PM
The mage decides to blast the approaching skeleton in stead of risk something on the invisible guy. He whacks him with 4 firey missiles hoping it is enough to down him (17 DMG). He then backs away from the thing over closer to Milo and the invisible foe.
Bertram d20+12=29 Friday May 10th, 2002 10:00:54 PM
Muttering to himself something about boneheaded stubborn humans Bertram works over his bleeding friend using all of his skills to stabilize Liam before attempting any further healing. Lian's wounds are stabilized are bandaged.
Ingrge Friday May 10th, 2002 10:12:32 PM
Noting Figment taking care of the remaining skeleton, Ingrge relexively cast yet another spell this time centering on Milo and suddenly Milo and the surroundin 20 ft diameter circle is filled with a bounty of glittering dust. (Bad guy and Milo will save DC 16 or be blinded)
DM Kent d20+4=18 d20+4=15 d20+11=21 Friday May 10th, 2002 10:23:07 PM
Fluet rushes up the stairs with little difficulty.
Falin's first arrow finds a home in something above the disturbed dust.
Milo drinks his potion and then feels his blade snag in some material but quickly rip through.
Olanna tosses her dust at an area behind Milo and is rewarded with noticing tha about half of the dust never hits the floor.
Ingrge casts his spell and suddenly you see outlined in the golden circle right behind Milo a cloaked figure. (Milo make will save DC16)
Bertram works on Lian and Lian regains conciousness for a moment and then falls back. but he is stabilized.
K'nara takes in the situation and casts her spell hoping for the best.
DM Kent d20+7=24 d10+5=10 Friday May 10th, 2002 10:27:26 PM
The now semi visible SL once again reaches out to touch Milo and this time the halfling feels the chill touch come down solidly on his arm. (10 points damage and Fortitude DC 16 or fall paralyzed)
Lian (Stabalized) Saturday May 11th, 2002 1:55:32 AM
The bleeding stops. The monk falls into a deep comforting dream.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+6=23 d20+8=23 d20+6=23 d20+6=14 d20+6=13 d6+1=7 Saturday May 11th, 2002 2:48:50 AM
Covered in the glittering dust Milo blinks away the spots that threaten to cloud his vision. Feeling the numbing grasp of the cloaked figure, Milo grits his teeth to keep from shrieking in agony, and steels himself as he feels his muscles begin to lock up. Using the speed of haste potion as an anchor, Milo spins in place, bringing his short sword to bear on his deathly attacker. (OOC: Made Will save and Fort save both at DC 23 oddly enough. Of three attacks Milo hits ACs 23, 14, and 13. Hits once for sure for 7 hps.)
Figment (Improved Invis - 96 rounds left) 4d4(1+2+1+4)+4=12 Saturday May 11th, 2002 7:08:21 PM
The mage smiles with satifaction as the skeleton near him goes to peices. Seeing the figure revealed by Ingrge's timely spell, he blasts the cloaked figure with 4 magic missles (12 DMG).
Olana d20+7=12 d20+7=17 d4+3=5 Sunday May 12th, 2002 6:49:07 PM
At last! They could see the thing!
Staying well back from the effects of the spellcasters attacks, she whipped out a couple of daggers and hurled them toward the monster as hard as she could, then stepped back and got out her shortbow. (1 possible hit ac 17 for 5)
Falin d20+13=17 d20+13=30 d20+8=22 d8+2=6 d8+2=5 d8+2=6 Monday May 13th, 2002 9:39:56 AM
Falin lets loose with all of his pent up rage and humiliation from running from battle. He fires three arrows into the monster. (OCC: AC 17,30,22 Dmg: 6,5,6)
As Falin reaches back for another arrow to knock he realizes he is running low on ammunition.
Flueterflam Monday May 13th, 2002 12:28:51 PM
Scanning the room to see what evil still exists in the area, Fluet notices finally that Milo is being attack by......something. He sheathes his sword and nocks an arrow, preparing to aim at this slightly visible thing.
Bertram 2d8(7+2)+10=19 Monday May 13th, 2002 5:58:01 PM
Using one of his last spells, Bertram casts over the now sleeping Lian. (Cure moderate wounds for 19 points)
DM kent d20+7=22 d10+5=6 Monday May 13th, 2002 6:28:31 PM
Reeling a bit from the single shots from Figment, Milo and Falin, the creature, which you can now tell is a LICH, drops its invisibility and reaches out and grasps Olanna in one of its claws.
(Olanna - 6 points and Will save DC 16 or fall to the ground.)
Olana d20+5=13 d20+5=18 Monday May 13th, 2002 8:10:03 PM
Just as she was moving away - the thing reaches out and manages to grab her. It is possibly the worst feeling she has ever experienced, andshe lets out a blood curdling scream before she can stop herself.
For a fraction of a second, her body seems to want to be perfectly still, but somehow - she manages to summon the willpower to wrench herself away from it. ((Re-rolled hero point))
'Don't let it touch you! Don't let it touch you! she yells, shivering.
Lian d20+6=8 Monday May 13th, 2002 10:40:09 PM
The young elf blinks awake and just stares at the ceiling.
"I need to start down a different life path, this one is going to kill me." Says the monk.
"How are the Talons fairing?" Rolling over to stand up, Lian looks around while on one knee. Catching a glimpse of some nasty ghoulish beast reaching for Olana, it sends a chill down Lian's spine just looking at it. "Bertram, what in the Wold is THAT?!"
OOC: Lian is looking around quickly trying to take in what he can, Check of 8!
Brother Bertram Monday May 13th, 2002 11:35:16 PM
"Rest Lad, all is well. Now I have to go help the others." Bertram turns at Olana's scream and begins charges directly at the horrid creature.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+8=26 d20+8=22 d20+8=20 d6+1=4 d6+1=3 d6+1=6 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 1:04:07 AM
Seeing the lich for what it is, Milo quickly circles the creature to stand at a flanking position, and lets his sword do the talking. (OOC: Milo hits AC 26, 22, and 20 for 4, 3, and 6 hps respectively.)
K'Nara Stoneskin, True Strike d20+8=28 d20+8=24 d10+4=12 d10+4=10 d6=5 d6=2 d10+4=8 d6=1 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 7:51:12 AM
Olana's cry and the horrible visage of the undead foe made K'Nara pause for a moment, then the human bladesinger hissed:
"Come, now--dance with me!" After issuing her challenge to the lich, K'Nara executed a ballet-like leap, whirling the flaming Lucia about her in a terrible yet beautiful attack that hit the wizened spellcaster full-force. (OOC: possible crit hit: AC28 for 12hp damage & 5hp fire damage; crit hit AC24 for 18hp damage & 3hp fire damage)
Figment (Improved Invis) 4d4(3+4+3+4)+4=18 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 9:21:11 AM
The mage drops all pretense of stealth and focuses solely on casting and helping his friends. "It is a lich! Kill it quick folks!". He fires his last round of magic missles at the deadly creature in hopes he can come up with something more to help take this thing out.
Ingrge Tuesday May 14th, 2002 8:47:40 PM
Trying to figure out what he can do to help that doesn't endanger his friends Ingrge opts for getting closer and seeing what he can to do to aid the injured. Noticing as he approaches that Bertram is very unsteady in his charge and blood covered as well.
DM kent d4=1 d20+7=20 d10+5=6 Tuesday May 14th, 2002 8:54:44 PM
The Lich seems to almost be grinning at you as he is repeatedly struck. Some of the blows seem to do little or no damage while others seem to stagger it. He truly grins as he watches Bertram's staggering charge and reaches out with his claws and rakes him down the side. (six points and will DC 16 or fall to ground)
As Bertram falls, an awful, hollow laugh comes from the Lich's gaping mouth and then speakings for the first time says, "Once again those in between life and death, prove to be too much for the living. Even the Gods must be wary of the Undead."
Flueterflam d20+4=16 d8=5 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 12:24:27 AM
Ready....Aim....Fire (DC 16 for 5) The bard hopes to hit the undead creature, just as the horrible words reaches his ears. Flueterflam shivers as he nocks another arrow to fire.
Lian d20+11=18 d20+4=17 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 1:13:04 AM
Not knowing anything about Undead, let alone Liches, he flips and spins (18) into the fray to reach Bertram. When he gets there he intends to pull him away. (Untrained Heal check to stop any bleeding, making the check with 17).
Lian's AC versus the Lich with Dodge is 20.
Milo (Haste, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith [AC 25]) d20+7=20 d20+7=25 2d8(3+8)+3=14 2d8(6+7)+3=16 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 1:13:15 AM
Looking up at the lich with a feral grin, Milo retorts, "I'm not much of a cleric, I'll admit, but thanks for confirming what I've been guessing at for a while." Reaching into his satchel, Milo pulls out the large ruby gem of healing. "Go back to the hell from which you came." And then the halfling strikes at the undead creature twice, using the positive healing energy of the gem to damage him. (OOC: Still hasted, Milo makes two touch attacks, hitting AC 20 and 25 respectively. Remember that a creature's touch AC only includes bonuses from Dex, deflection, and size. Assuming I hit, he takes 14 hps and 16 hps respectively (30 hps damage total) as the cure moderate wounds spells damage undead.)
K'Nara d20+8=12 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 7:08:50 AM
As Bertram sank to the floor, so did K'Nara's stomach. A lich...what was it that Gemsmith had mentioned about such creatures before..? Curse her for a fool that she hadn't paid attention to the Arcane Lore that her original master had attempted to impart to her during those first days after she'd left her home village of Derring.
K'Nara swung her blade once more, but Bertram's fall rattled her enough to make the blade whistle past the lich without connecting.
Falin d20+1=12 d20+1=9 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 8:47:01 AM
Falin, in an attempt to do some damage looks around the room for something that he thinks would cause damage to a Lich.
(OCC: Spot check of 12; Int check of 9 DUHHH!!!)
Figment (Improved Invis - 94 rounds left) d20+7=25 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 9:11:10 AM
Having no additional offensive spells of use for the time being, the invisible mage moves over toward the combatants. "I'm here guys, just letting you know". He casts Mage armor and decides to put it on Lian since the impetuous monk seems to have a deathwish (Touch Attack, AC 25 - Lian add +4 to AC). He then steps back out of harms way and drops down low to let the combatants go at it amd avoid any stry arrows.
Olana d20+11=20 d20+11=28 d6=2 d6=3 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 1:17:31 PM
Stepping back until she has her loathing under control, Olana fires off two arrows toward the lich (point blank shot, rapid shot, precise shot)using her short bow. She takes careful note of their impact, and if they prove completely ineffective, will move back into the fray with her swords. (Hits AC 20 and 28 for 2 and 3 dam)
Ingrge d20+5=23 d6=6 Wednesday May 15th, 2002 9:48:15 PM
Feeling more secure with others from his party around him, Ingrge casts the only thing he can think of. It looks like a ghostly arm leaves his body and reaches across the room and grips the Lich's arm. (Disrupt undead 6 points. No save)
Dm kent Wednesday May 15th, 2002 9:59:18 PM
Lian mannages to get in and out with no problem as the Lich is just a bit preoccupied. he also manages to staunch the bleeding from Bertram's multiple wounds.
Milo swings his stone connecting with both his strikes.
Olanna's second arrow strikes home, though its hard to tell what damage is done.
Ingrge's spell also goes off at around the same time. It almost seems as though the translucent arm is going to be diverted, but at the last moment it settles on the Lich's outstretched arm.
Moments later the Lich is indistinguishable from the rest of the grey dust on the floor, leaving only a grey cloak behind to mark its passing.
Figment (Improved Invisibility) Wednesday May 15th, 2002 11:37:34 PM
The mage continues his improved invis for now, not wanting to risk another creature as yet unknown. "Everybody OK? Lian, my spell on you will protect you for several hours - just so you know. I'm running low on spells. We'd better make this quick.". He looks around the tower for anything of value.
Lian d20+14=25 Thursday May 16th, 2002 1:53:43 AM
"Thank you Figment. Let us revive Bertram. What spell are you talking about?"
The young elf watches Bertram for any signs of conciousness, occassionally patting the dwarfs face.
OOC: Lian is listening for any strange sounds, DC 25.
Milo d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=4 d8+1=8 Thursday May 16th, 2002 5:57:56 AM
Milo stashes his gem and looks around, "We're not through yet friends. The only way to truly destroy this creature is to find his phylactery and destroy it. Otherwise he'll reform and I'm sure not be too please with us." Before Milo begins his search he approaches Bertram, and pulling a wand from his satchel that looks like a stout white stick with silver runes, tipped with a small ruby, he places it gently to the dwarf's forehead and utters a quick prayer. (OOC: use four charges from the wand of cure light wounds to heal 22 hps over four rounds)
K'Nara d20=10 Thursday May 16th, 2002 7:54:11 AM
"Filla-what?" K'Nara echoed Milo's word--or tried to. The alien-sounding term did ring a bell in the furthest reaches of the human bladesinger's memories--sounded a lot like what Gemsmith had been trying to drum into her head.
"Never mind--heal up Brother Bertram." the leader of the Emerald Talons said, then extinguished her sword and sheathed it. "The rest of us--look for this filla-lackery thing--find it and destroy it!" (OOC: will take 20 to Search if that's possible, if not, then Search check is {aaaaaaaaaaack!} 10.) So saying, K'Nara immediately began rifling the room for anything that looked like what Milo was talking about.
Olana Thursday May 16th, 2002 6:15:45 PM
Olana looks at Milo, then looks at K'Nara and shrugs. "What does a phylactery look like, Milo," she asks, and then begins to search.
Figment (Improved Invis) d20+7=11 Friday May 17th, 2002 9:13:25 AM
The mage narrows his search for the phylactery. He fires off his Detect Magic spell if unsuccessful and scans the entire floor. If not found there he finds the stairs and climbs.
DM kent Friday May 17th, 2002 8:53:40 PM
As the talons search the room for various things, they find several interesting things in the chests. They find 2 vials of a swirling grey-white liquid, a rolled up piece of parchment, 300 platinum pieces, and five vials of a lightly sweet smelling light blue liquid. also found on two skeltons finger bones are two unmarked, gold rings. The lich's cloak is also on the floor. There is also a second rolled up parchment found. The Phylactery has yet to be located, but Figment's spell lights up the Lich's cloak as he runs his spell along the floor.
Bertram regains conciousness as Milo uses his wand.
Brother Bertram Friday May 17th, 2002 9:41:51 PM
Bertram groans and stands shakily to his feet. Seeing Milo standing over him, Bertram grins weakly, "Im assuming that I didn't hit him Friend Milo?" Bertram gathers his axe and then joins the search of the room.
Milo d8+1=3 d8+1=7 d8+1=8 d8+1=3 Saturday May 18th, 2002 1:21:54 AM
Looking over a Olana, Milo looks perplexed, "I don't really know... it could be anything I suppose. It must contain his spirit. Ya know, now that I think of it... it doesn't even necessarily need to be here." Milo smiles at Bertram, "Oh you hit him just fine... I think he fainted DEAD away." Milo chuckles at his little joke. "Now hold still, I'm on strict orders from K'nara to keep poking you with this wand until you're all better." Milo jabs Bertram a few more times. (OOC: Bertram regains 21 more hps.)
Lian d20+14=33 Saturday May 18th, 2002 2:06:49 AM
Looking at his two friends who are talking about the Lich, Lian just hangs his head.
"I was not much help today, in fact, Bertram got hurt because of me."
"Perhaps that Phylactery is hidden in the walls or possibly somewhere where it could not be detected." The elf states with certainty. "I do not think it would be close to the Lichs lair. Perhaps hidden within the depths."
Lian rubs his chest as if still in pain from his wounds.
OOC: Still listening for strange sounds, made a 33.
Flueterflam Saturday May 18th, 2002 2:54:01 PM
The bard lowers his head like Lian and pouts to himself about his cowardice. He just feels like curling up in the corner and crying. How could he have let himself be so scared? Fluet keeps silent, hoping no one will ever mention this incident again.
Figment - Improved Invis, Sunday May 19th, 2002 11:11:42 PM
The mage looks over the chests. He the moves to the table and chairs in the center of the room and then begins looking quickly around the beds. "Take that cloak off the lich. If he comes back we at least cna make sure he's not as powerful - it'c magic. I haven't found the phylactery yet...".
K'Nara d20-1=15 Monday May 20th, 2002 6:45:48 AM
Still bleeding a bit from her own wounds, K'Nara took the time to bind herself up (OOC: Heal check 15--she's down to about 10 or 12hp from 59!) and consider the treasure found.
"I wonder if this skirmish falls under the dreamranting Ingrge did last night..?" the human bladesinger mused, mulling over the translated phrases Ingrge had uttered:
Beware the silent warriors!
Two Die!
He is stripping the skin from the earth.
Find/Use the Five Arrows of Death.
Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
The Destiny of the Wold is to conquer all.
Travel along the wandering path.
Olana d20+10=15 d20+2=8 Monday May 20th, 2002 1:12:35 PM
Olana gives a sigh. She wants to go and tell Lian and Fluet not to feel bad about running from the Lich, but holds back - figuring they'd rather not have it mentioned.
"Well I think we've just met the silent warriors," she says. "Although I don't like the sound of the 'two die' part. Who's supposed to die? One of us? Or two of them?"
She starts searching for other rooms, once everything in this room has been looked at. (Search and Spot checks 15 and 8)
DM kent Monday May 20th, 2002 7:02:35 PM
While Milo's ministrations and prodding seem to have Bertram in much better health (there are still what would be several week old injuries still visible, but nearly healed), Several other Talons are obviously in very painful states.
As someon continues the climb up the stairs they find the door opens on to a crenelated roof top. There is nothing else there.
There is still no sign of the Lich's Phylactery and you are thinking that it is not in this room.
Olanna thinks that perhaps the stair that ended at the floor on the bottom level, in a space similar to the entry to this floor, may indeed have a hidden door that was not previously noticed or uncovered.
Ingrge, joining in the search of the room, stops when K'nara speaks the phrases that he spouted earlier. "K'nara, I think that translation might be a bit off. I think that maybe that fourth phrse should be find/follow the death arrows. I also believe that technically we did lose two members today. Both Lian and Bertram fell unmoving to our opponents."
Milo d8+1=5 d8+1=9 d8+1=4 d8+1=5 d20+24=44 Monday May 20th, 2002 8:59:25 PM
Seeing that everyone looks relatively gimpy at this point Milo begins making his rounds. He starts with his leader. Sneaking up behind K'nara, unintentionally of course, Milo jabs her once with the wand. "Hold still K'nara, this won't hurt a bit." The halfling hits her with the wand three more times, and then with a playful wink and a twirl of the wand, he turns looking around the room muttering, "Where is Olana?" Then regaining a more serious demeanor, "It would help if the injured would just line up for this, so I can get the healing done real quick like." (OOC: Made a Move silently check DC 44. Healed K'nara for 23 hps. If the players would give up an OOC clue as to how bad they are off, like Donna did, that would help me gauge how much healing to use on ya'll, that would be real helpful.)
Brother Bertram d20+2=21 Monday May 20th, 2002 10:24:26 PM
Bertram examines the walls and floors carefully looking for anything out of the ordinary.
(Stone Cunning +2)
Figment - Improved Invis. d20+7=15 Monday May 20th, 2002 11:00:24 PM
The mage reexamines the area at the bottom of the stair where the door is suspected of being. He taps on the floor to see if it sounds hollow (Search - DC 15).
Lian Monday May 20th, 2002 11:39:31 PM
"Well, it seems the Lich's Phylactery is not anywhere to be found. Where else might it be hidden? Another room?"
Lian (continuation) d20+14=33 d20+2=19 Tuesday May 21st, 2002 6:16:47 AM
"Was there not mention of 'stripping the skin from the earth', or was I hearing things?"
He walks up to a wall and strapes away a few layers of dust and dirt with his fingernail. Then brushing his hands off, he turns to the group; "We should probably dig, is that not right Bertram. I saw you peeking at the walls, was that your thought as well? But where to start?" He places his pointed ear to the wall (Listen of 33), the fingers the wall slightly (Searching with a 19).
"K'nara, should we check the ceiling too! Right?"
K'Nara d20-1=18 Tuesday May 21st, 2002 6:53:29 AM
The tall human female fighter nearly whirled around and ripped off Milo's head when he unexpectedly prodded her with his wand! When she saw that he was only applying his curative magic, however, K'Nara visibly relaxed with a laugh.
"Thank you, Milo," she said, noting that her wounds were now healed to the point of no longer bleeding, "Though I think that--in the future--you would be much safer if you gave me the word of your intentions before sneaking up on me." Her humor restored, the redhead thought seriously on Ingrge's interpretation of his dreamranting.
"You're probably right, Ingrge," the leader of the Talons agreed, "Or the two that fall could have been a reference to the skeletons--meaning that this lich-thing is NOT going to fall." She rolled her hazel eyes at the possibility of having to fight the lich again. "Gods--I hate riddles..!" K'Nara turned her attention to trying to assist in spotting any possible secret doors in the room. (OOC: Spot check 18.)
"Yes, Lian--checking the ceiling would be a very good idea."
Olana d20+10=14 Tuesday May 21st, 2002 2:00:51 PM
The elf tells the others about the possible hidden door on the first floor, and then asks Milo if he could patch her up a bit.
"Careful, Figment," she whispers, stepping forward and giving the area a thorough search. "There might be a trap of some kind." (Search check dc14 - which is a fail I think)
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 21st, 2002 4:14:19 PM
"I wouldn't expect that creature to keep it in the same room with him, too risky. Perhaps a secret place concealed somewhere in here or perhaps where Olana suggested."
Ingrge Tuesday May 21st, 2002 7:52:20 PM
Ingrge walks over to Milo visibly in pain as he walks over (down 37/51) and grimaces as he tries to joke "At least your poking and prodding seems more helpful than Parnoth's. I think i could use a bit of your special ministration my friend.
DM kent Tuesday May 21st, 2002 8:59:53 PM
Bertram and Lian looking at the walls near the trap door leading down find, when they scraped off the grime, 5 blood red arrows carved into the wall, pointing down the stairs, to the lower level.
Down on the first floor, Figment and Olanna carefully look at the area Olanna remembered and they do indeed what appears to be a door underneath a small rug. On the door is carved five blood red arrows.
Upstairs, Falin pauses to look at the second rolled up sheet of parchment and he realizes that it appears to be a last minute writing of the the Elf that became the Lich.
In brief, the parchment tells of the last days of the remaining guards and the despair they feel that they will fail at their ordained task. As a last ditch effort to be able to remain at their posts and continue their duty, The guard captain called on the oldest of the elders for aid and was told that there was a way to cheat death and while not alive still be able to act. This process would leave the undead elves with nothing but their duty renamining to them and even the Gods would have to be wary if they trespassed.
Milo d8+1=6 d8+1=5 d8+1=7 d8+1=6 d8+1=9 d8+1=7 d8+1=4 d8+1=8 d8+1=7 d8+1=9 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 1:42:18 AM
Milo makes his rounds healing his companions as he goes. He starts with Ingrge, "Okey Dokey, you've seen better days big guy," Milo smiles as he judiciously applies the wand to Ingrge's wounds. He then turns to Olana, "Hey pretty elf lady, hold still a moment while I hit you with my wand of healing." Milo's grin is from ear to ear. (OOC: Applied five charges to Ingrge healing 33 hps of damage, and then five charges to Olana healing 35 hps of damage on her.)
K'Nara Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 6:07:33 AM
The arrows on the floor and then the door that Olana uncovers definitely interested K'Nara.
"These could be the arrows in Ingrge's prophecy." she pointed out, then turned her attention to the mundane stuff in the upper chamber for a moment--taking the time to hastily pack up into her backpack the seven vials of liquid, the other piece of parchment, the two gold rings and the 300 platinum pieces, as well as the lich's cloak.
"Let's check out that door, then," K'Nara said, nodding, "I'd like to see if these are the arrows we are supposed to use and/or follow..."
Falin Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 8:41:25 AM
Fellow travelers, here me. "This is a writting from the elves that guarded this tower in years past. They were fearful they could not complete their given task because of death and they found a way to cheat death by becoming undead with only one mission. That mission was to protect the tower. So I am guessing there are more of them in this tower waiting for us to disturb them so they can stretch their dead bones."
Figment Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 10:05:51 AM
The mage listens to the text. "Well it sounds like we'd do well then to bar the trap doors and rest. I am out of spells and must rest if I am to be effective. Either that or we hope we're done with the guardians and risk it. That way at least we should be able to avoid the lich before he reforms. Maybe it's not such a bad thing to leave him here anyway. This is a place of ancient magic and should be protected...". The mage waits for the decision.
Lian d20+14=25 Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 6:02:59 PM
Lian points out the arrows with a silent gester and waits for the 'ok' from K'nara. He sticks close behind Bertram.
OOC: Listening down the stairs, made DC 25.
Olana Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 6:19:59 PM
"Thank you, Milo," the elf whispers softly.
She listens as Falin reads out the scroll and gives a sigh. "They must have been desperate indeed to take such measures. But if it say the Gods themselves must be wary... just exactly what has been done here? A God would not be afraid of a mere lich. It suggests there's something else. Perhaps something worse. If thats the case then maybe Figment is right, and we need to prepare."
She looks around for something to bar the door to the above room, just in case the lich decides to go walkabout.
Figment was right about one thing. This was indeed a place of ancient magic, and it had been whispering to her ever since she stepped through the door.
Ingrge Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 10:44:35 PM
Sighing a contented sigh as Milo jabs him with the wand. "Thank you friend Milo. I feel much better, though like Figment I am depleted of the majority of my spells and think we should rest before continuing. As that writing that Falin has there, ... I will have to think on that a bit.
DM kent Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 10:49:46 PM
The Talons reconvene downstairs, closing the doors behind them as they descend, though none can be bolted from the bottom side as they all push upward to open.
At this point Figment and Falin seem to be the most injured
Flueterflam Wednesday May 22nd, 2002 10:56:40 PM
The bard keeps quiet to himself. He almost appears suspicious. To any that what Fluet, they might think that he is still slightly scared, but also hiding something else. Several times he opens his mouth as to say or ask something of whomever is near him, but he thinks better of it and just keeps his thoughts inside.
He stays to the rear of the group and looks back many times. Obviously, something is either calling him or he has lost himself in paranoia.
Lian d20+14=17 d20+11=27 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 12:36:27 AM
The young elf listens as the Talons move, actually hoping that he doesn't hear anything at all. Lian, the monk, moves as quiet as possible (27). He walks close to his dwarven companion.
OOC: Listen Check, 17.
Milo d20+19=26 d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=8 d8+1=5 d8+1=4 d8+1=9 d8+1=5 d8+1=9 Thursday May 23rd, 2002 10:19:21 AM
Moving amongst the party as they move downstairs, Milo walks silently as a matter of course, and finds himself next to Figment. "Hey tough guy, I didn't see you lining up for healling. Hold still for a sec." Milo jabs the wizard a few times with his wand. He then approaches the new guy, "Hey Falin, looks like I get the healing duty today. Stop moving for a sec so I can get you wounds closed up." Jabs him a few times as well. (OOC: Heal Figment for 23 hps, and Falin for 27 hps. How is everyone doing now?)
Figment - Improved Invis Thursday May 23rd, 2002 10:45:58 AM
The mage graciously accepts the healing. "Sorry, I was focused on the search...". (BTW, Figment is still invisible - but he'll line up anyway :)).
"So what'll it be? We go down now or rest first?".
Olana Thursday May 23rd, 2002 3:52:58 PM
"I say we wait."
Frowning, she steps over to Fluet, and asks him softly - "Fluet - what's wrong? Do you sense something?"
Flueterflam Friday May 24th, 2002 3:32:38 AM
Replying to Olana, "No...no, it's just that, well..." The bard appears too frightened to speak. In fact, he seems to be looking for something to happen that will make his interrogation easier. His ears dart various places, looking for an answer.
Finally, the bard calms down. He gives the elf a giant huge and whispers in her ear, "Wait for me." Fluet takes several steps away from Olana. Flueterflam disappears as a soft incantation and delicate hand motions are produced.
. . . .
A small piece of parchment slowly flutters through the air and lands where the feet of the bard stood only seconds prior.
Brother Bertram (sub Jay) d20+1=4 Friday May 24th, 2002 3:35:02 AM
Bertram walks, contemplating and scutinizing the stonework and where a lich may hide his own soul. (Search using Stonecunning, 4 plus cunning for a total of 6, ouch)
OOC: Just out of curiousity Kent, did Mark leave a prepared spell list? Can Bert prepare spells (God being dead and all)?
K'Nara Friday May 24th, 2002 6:08:56 AM
"We're in pretty tough shape." K'Nara conceded out loud. "We really ought to rest up and heal and get our spells back before going on--gods know what else is waiting around in this tower for us." The leader of the Emerald Talons eyed the trapdoor above.
"If we're going to rest first, then we DEFINITELY need to have watches guarding the others as we recover." K'Nara said firmly. "Who's up for first watch? Whomever it is will get healed up as completely as possible by the clerics..."
Figment Friday May 24th, 2002 8:53:14 AM
The mage releases his invisibility. It is clear he was blasted by the fireball, but the healing has gotten most of the physical damage restored. "I can either take first watch and rest or I can rest and then memorize spells as I take last watch. It will take Ingrge and I the longest to recover and prepare. Also, I would recommend those who have spells on them, like Lian take the first watch while they are still of use.". The mage takes his watch - whenever it is, and rests and rememorizes his spells. He changes several to be more appropriate with this type of adventure.
Falin d20+1=14 d20+1=12 d20+10=24 d20+10=20 d20+10=29 Friday May 24th, 2002 9:12:53 AM
"I agree, we should wait for the evening. I need to get a little work done besides." (OCC: Didn't know how many checks to make. I made 2 spot checks 14 and 12 to look for suitable items to make arrows. I then made three rolls to make some arrows 24,20,and 29)
Ingrge Friday May 24th, 2002 6:27:50 PM
Ingrge adds his agreement with the need for rest and recharging. If it could be arranged for our not having to take a watch we would get the most accomplished ....
DM kent Friday May 24th, 2002 6:41:12 PM
The Talons rest throughout the rest of the day and into the evening around dusk there is the sound of what must be a small army passing by. What is worse though are the sounds you hear after most of the noise has passed. Through the arrow slits you hear and if you look you can see what must be several hundred "men" setting up camps around the tower. It is obvious that they know what they are doing as they are outside of bow range and are not setting any groups too close to any others. None appear to come anywhere within the walled grounds.
The talons settle down to sleep for the night.
Lian d20+14=30 Saturday May 25th, 2002 4:58:08 AM
This Talon doesn't rest so easily. The young elf listens (30) to the mass in hopes to hear their plans. Lian is noticably uneasy.
Bertram (sub Jay) Saturday May 25th, 2002 5:13:38 AM
Bertram paces in front of the window (arrow) slits, concern crosses his face as he rubs his bearded chin. The dwarf soon spralls on the floor, laying on his bedroll, hands clasped behind his head with his eyes closed. Axe close by. It's obvious that he's not sleeping well, every sound rouses him. "Get some rest!" He says, as Lian bussles by him.
Falin d20+1=16 d20+1=6 d20+1=11 Saturday May 25th, 2002 12:50:19 PM
After resting a few hours Falin makes his way around the tower looking out. He is looking to see if some poor soul wanders too close to the tower.
(OCC: Spot checks 16,6,11)
Milo d8+1=9 Saturday May 25th, 2002 10:22:13 PM
"I'm up for first watch. Besides... I don't know how well I'm gonna sleep with an army camped outside." Milo touches the wand to his own forehead momentarily, healing himself. He then prays to Alemi, turning the remaining bruise into undamaged flesh. (OOC: Used one charge for 9 hps and change resistance into a cure minor wounds spell for the remaining hp of damage.)
Olana Monday May 27th, 2002 2:40:11 AM
"Fluet??" Olana picks up the parchment and will read it. "Where did he go?" she exclaims.
The bard's disappearance and the gathering army outside leave her pensive and restless.
"I'll take whatever watch is required," she says distractedly.
Figment Monday May 27th, 2002 11:06:57 AM
The mage reaces down and scoops up the parchment that Fluet dropped - and reads it. He sighs as the armies surround the tower. "At least the aura of this tower will give us some level of security from without...". He sleeps and rememorizes his spells as he takes his watch. He keeps an eye on the army outside, trying to determine what or who they might be.
DM Kent Monday May 27th, 2002 9:16:56 PM
Olanna and Figment both read the piece of parchment that floated to the ground as Fluet vanished. The note is very simple in its wording. It simply says, Flueterflam, I need your assistance immediately. M. Both Olanna and Figment recognize the writing as that of the Hierophant.
As it gets dark the fires outside are plainly visible. There seem to be 15 cook fires spaced around the tower's grounds.
During the night nothing much happens except for just after midnight as who ever is watching, peers out at the ground and sees a group of five figures enter the tower grounds and make thier way to the tower itself. As they get within 10 feet of the wall they become silent torches as they flame up and disappear without a sound.
The rest of the time passes without inturruption. It is now morning.
Lian d20+14=29 Tuesday May 28th, 2002 2:01:45 AM
Lian happily takes midnight shift and watches nervously. Seeing the five figures approach the tower, he wakes Bertram. He listens the the stairwell, as he wakes Milo and K'nara. (listen 29, at the stairs) He whispers to them, "I believe someone is sneaking into the tower."
Bertram (sub Jay) Tuesday May 28th, 2002 2:07:26 AM
The dwarf wakes with a grumble and reaches out and grabs the young elfs shirt. "This had better be important my friend." After hearing the news of the figures, he rises with all due haste and grabs up his axe.
K'Nara Tuesday May 28th, 2002 6:36:48 AM
Healed by the magic of Milo and Brother Bertram, the tall bladesinger silently eyed the troops surrounding the tower--or, more accurately, eyed the cook fires. Fifteen of them. The Dark Lord's forces must be having a field day overrunning the Kingdom. K'Nara only hoped that whatever was within this tower was actually something that would prove effective against Marteaus, or the entire Wold would be as bleak and spiritless as the natives of Izen were when Parnoth had sent her there last year.
'Curse me for not comprehending what "the Dark Lord" truly was back then..!' the redhead thought bitterly. Not that she could have done anything about it while within Izen borders, anyhow...still, it rankled that all the clues to Marteaus' intentions had been there in front of her face and she had not realized what the wanna-be god was about to do.
She went to bed in a brooding sort of mood, only to be awoken when the personnel who'd tried to penetrate the tower suddenly went up in flames.
"Well--it seems that the tower can tell the difference between who's here to help and who's here to conquer." K'Nara pointed out, blinking as the last of the doomed squad's flames flickered out. "As soon as everyone's ready, we should resume our mission, though--we still have to find whatever is in here and then try to figure out a way to get out of the area with it...or use it, if need be."
Figment Tuesday May 28th, 2002 8:52:15 AM
The mage rememorizes his spells once he wakes and prepares for the final effort. "Hmmm. Even though we are here to help the minions in the tower attack us. How unusual it let us in but still resists us. Unless of course we simply paid a price for going the wrong direction...". Upon further reflection he also mentions. "At least it's good to know that the Heirophant survives - and that he feels he can rely on our number. What a powerful ally he is indeed!". He pulls out the small pouch which carry the 3 seeds from his golden apple which was the druid's gift back at their first meeting. "Maybe someday I can actually plant these things...".
Olana Tuesday May 28th, 2002 7:23:24 PM
The elf passes around the note after Figment has read it, so everyone knows what happened to Fluet.
After an hour or two collecting her thoughts, she keeps watch alongside the others, raising an eyebrow as some of the encroachers go up like torches.
"We have a lot of elves in our group," she adds as an explanation as to why that particular nasty effect didn't work on them.
Milo d20+11=25 d20+11=31 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 2:31:47 AM
Waking from fitful sleep, Milo prays to Alemi, renewing himself spiritually, and then eats a small meal of jerky and hardtack. Afterwards he gets up, stretches, and begins his search of the strange door with five red arrows. He examines it first for traps, and second for a way to open it up. (OOC: Made two search checks at DC 25 and 31 respectively.)
Ingrge Wednesday May 29th, 2002 6:27:21 PM
Ingrge lseeps fitfully for a while and then drifts off into a deep sleep. Awakening fairly early, he studies his spell book and then takes a gander around the room. K'nara, after a bit of thought about what we know has led me to the conclusion that we have answered at least part of the problem of how to thwart Marteus. We know that Marteus has control over the dead. We also know the dead cannot act on their own. Thirdly, we know that the living cannot effectively harm a god either. So the question is, What is not alive and yet can effectively act on their own behalf? The second question is I think, How does this help us?
DM Kent Wednesday May 29th, 2002 6:36:01 PM
After waking and breaking their fast the talons look out upon the soldiers left behind by Marteus' main force, shake their heads for a moment and then move to the door. Milo's checks reveal that there are no traps and that the lock is a simple one that is easily circumvented by his nimble fingers.
The stairs again go around the outside of the wall, but this time there are damp spots and mosses growing out of the cracks. The room below is dark but there is a bit of reddish light coming from a multi tiled floor. Upon inspection from above there is definately a pattern to the tiles and there appears to be three distincly different intertwined paths created by the tiles.
Lian d20+14=26 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 11:37:13 PM
"Perhaps the yellow tiled path?"
The elf listens to the surrounding sounds(26).
Bertram (sub Jay) d20+1=9 Wednesday May 29th, 2002 11:40:37 PM
The dwarven cleric just looks at the tiles, examining the tiles and stone (11 stone cunning).
"Who knows. Yellow, green."
Milo Thursday May 30th, 2002 2:58:40 AM
Stepping down to the last step, Milo crouches, examining the floor. His hand comes up to cover his mouth, as if to shush himself, and the halfling looks somewhat perplexed. Then suddenly, his countenance brightens, and he begins to speak, "Use the five arrows of death. Why does that have to be a weapon, why can't it be the arrows on the floor here. Look... only on the pink are their five arrows, the other paths all have more." Decided, Milo steps out on the pink path, and begins to follow it across the room, treading lightly as he goes, ready to spring any which way, should the need arise.
Lian Thursday May 30th, 2002 4:16:34 AM
Lian looks at Milo, then smiles. "Of course! I didn't see that. You ARE truly the an Excellent Rogue!"
K'Nara Thursday May 30th, 2002 7:57:11 AM
The chesnut-maned woman warrior managed to complete a short and very basic bladesinger workout before the business of continuing their mission resumed. Ingrge's words sounded quite logical.
"You're probably right, my friend," K'Nara said with a sigh, "As your reasoning has given me a headache...I did say how much I hate riddles, right..?" She smiled, though, and resolved to try to think about the elf's words...hopefully it wouldn't make her head ache too much.
Milo's discovery--and his logic--impressed the leader of the Tines.
"Logic and such isn't my forte..." K'Nara admitted readily, "...but I think Milo's on to something. We'll follow the pink path, then." She bowed low to the halfling. "After you, then, o Seeker of Alemi..."
Figment d20+6=17 d20+10=18 d20+16=29 d20+16=27 Thursday May 30th, 2002 10:32:43 AM
The mage carefully examines the paths (DC 17). He looks closely at the arrows and sees if the the arrows marked on the paths appear to be identical to those scribed on the trap door. He also looks over the paths and compares them against his knowledge of arcana (DC 29) and spellcraft (DC 27 for any clues. He will attempt to share his findings before the Talons set off every magical trap in the place...
Olana d20+11=12 Thursday May 30th, 2002 12:28:30 PM
Olana breaks out in a smile as Milo appears to have figured out the answer, but a moment later it disappears. "Be careful, Milo," she whispers, crouching low in order to give the pathways a lookover. Using all over her tracking skills, she attempts to see if any of the paths have been walked along before. (gee whiz - DC 12)
Ingrge d20=1 Thursday May 30th, 2002 5:48:12 PM
Looking down from above Ingrge gets a puzzled look on his face. I am afraid I have no clue about what I am looking at. As Figment and Milo come up with their information and thoughts, Ingrge listens but makes no comment.
DM kent Thursday May 30th, 2002 5:57:02 PM
Figment's examinations show several things. First all four paths radiate extremely strong magical auras from several various schools of magic. Second all the arrows appear to be identical to those painted on the wall and the door.
Bertram's inspection of the floor's stones reveals that they are all made from a gem like substance and each path is outined in quick-silver.
Olanna's observes that none of the paths seem to be at all worn. Nor is there any dust on any of the paths to hold tracks.
As Milo steps on to the first pink section he vanishes from the sight of all the other Talons.
Lian d20+6=26 d20+6=14 Thursday May 30th, 2002 7:21:00 PM
Lian watches Milo disappear with a look concern on the young elven face. Then it turns to a smile. "Okay Milo, enough with the jokes. Turn back visible so we can see you! Milo? Milo?!" He says quietly.
When Milo doesn't answer, Lian's smile vanishes as quickly as Milo had. He turns the K'nara. "Perhaps NOT the pink path?!"
Lian looks (26) at the walls, seeing if they are tiled as well. Then the monk looks (14) straight up trying to figure in the heighth of the ceiling. (Are there identical paths on the ceiling or the walls? If there are tiles on the walls, what color are they?) Lians thoughts are on NOT touching the floor at all to make it to one of the doors.
Then he turns and looks at the group. "I still think it is the yellow path. The path of least resistance. It over lays the rest of them."
Bertram (sub Jay) d20+1=7 Thursday May 30th, 2002 7:33:17 PM
Bertram determines that the tiles are some sort of gem-like substance. He begins to Appraise their value just out of curiousity (Appraise check of 9 using his racial modifiers). How rare is this substance? Is it all the same type of gem, just colored by hand (or magically)? Where might it be found? How long ago was it cut? Is it dwarven manfactured (or quarried stone)? Gnomish cutting? These are all his internal monologue.
Then he is distracted by Milo's little stunt. "Oh boy. I hope that's the little ones idea of stealth!! Figment, can you see if his aura is on the path or is he TRULY gone!?"
Bertram (sub Jay) Thursday May 30th, 2002 7:39:38 PM
"By the way Figment, that is quicksilver lining those tiles. Is that any significance to you?"
Asking to himself. Is Quicksilver rare, or just hard the manufacture?
Olana Friday May 31st, 2002 2:28:38 AM
"None of these paths are well trodden,"says Olana. "Neither is there any dust.In fact it's as if we are the f - Milo??"
Quickly, she takes her rope, ties one end to her waist. "Will someone hold this? I'll try and get him."
She steps onto the pink path.
K'Nara d20=16 Friday May 31st, 2002 7:40:19 AM
K'Nara's chin dropped to her chest when Milo simply disappeared. What kind of magic was this...or was it something that Milo had no control over..? (OOC: voluntary Intelligence check to figure it out yields a result of 16.)
"This...is NOT good..." K'Nara said, at a loss when confronted by the magical situation. She instinctively grabbed the rope Olana handed over and blinked without comprehension when the Elven ranger stepped onto the pink path after Milo.
Figment Sunday June 2nd, 2002 11:59:13 PM
"Best I can tell, I'd say the pink path is best. Now if we can just make sure Milo is OK. Can you hear us Milo? And Olana, it would be best if-". He listens for a response - and watches what happens to the rope since the impetuous elf once again acts before thinking.
GOD WAR! [CDM Jerry] Monday June 3rd, 2002 10:40:41 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.
Falin Monday June 3rd, 2002 4:53:45 PM
"Did the poem recited earlier have anything that would help us here?"
Bertram (sub Jay) Monday June 3rd, 2002 5:49:33 PM
"I do believe we should go after Milo, he HASN"T answered our calls, that's certainly not like him to leave us hanging for so long. And Olana, I figured she'd have more sense than that!" The dwarf paces in front of the path, just staring at it, attention drawn from the stone and jeweled tiles. The thunder outside startles him, but not enough to pull his attention from the path his friends took.
Lian Monday June 3rd, 2002 5:57:23 PM
"K'nara, I think Bertram is right on one account. Milo HAS NOT answered us, I believe if he could, he would. Perhaps he can hear us and see us, but we for some reason cannot hear or see him.... and Olana." The elf looks at the path, then looks at his leader for the 'okay' to follow.
DM Kent Monday June 3rd, 2002 9:30:40 PM
Olanna steps onto the path with the rope tied to her and vanishes from the sight of the rest of the Talons. The rope remains taught as it slowly slides through K'nara's fingers.
Lian looks at the walls and again notes that they are stone with differnt mosses and dirt covering them. The cieling while visible seems to be without decoration or color.
Bertram's examination of the tile material garners him very little new information. He knows that were he able to remove an entire tile, without damaging it, he knows that he would very likely be a wealthy dwarf. He also can tell that there are many layers of magic woven in through and around the tiles, both individually and as a group.
The tower physically rocks as the thunder is heard outside.
(ooc Jay quicksilver is indeed mercury, but the interesting thing is that this is solidified Mercury)
Olana Tuesday June 4th, 2002 1:40:33 AM
The rope continues to disappear slowly.
K'Nara d20+4=21 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 6:35:46 AM
(OOC: made a voluntary Dexterity check in order to not be knocked off her feet in surprise to the groundshaking that happened.)
The warrior woman looked wildly about her as the start of the Godswar was felt and heard even inside the Tower of Saryd.
"That's it!" K'Nara practically spat, a grim look on her face as she, once more, unsheathed her trademark bastard sword. "We don't have time to screw around--The Wold is going to hell in a handbasket and we can't afford to wait around to see if the handle falls off or not. Forward, Talons..!!!"
So saying, the human bladesinger stepped onto the pink path herself...
Figment Tuesday June 4th, 2002 9:20:04 AM
The mage sees the rope - and hears the war cry. "Looks like we have our answer. Let's do it.".
The First To Go [CDM Jerry] Tuesday June 4th, 2002 3:19:38 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.
Bertram (sub Jay) d20+9=22 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 5:59:57 PM
OOC: Checking the Religous signicants of the current deaths, IE. 'Was Raven foe to Goddess of Nature or Goddess of Song? Ga'al and Pantheon? Etc. Which are Greater Gods, Demi Gods, etc. Concerned about the order in which the deaths occurred. Bertrams Religion check is 22.
Bertram grins as K'nara commands the Talons forward. He steps onto the pink path. "Milo... Olana, we're coming!" He says as he shakes of the rocking tower and cracking thunder.
Lian Tuesday June 4th, 2002 6:06:28 PM
Lian shudders as the thunder errupts around them.
Realizing that half the party was gone, he steps onto the pink path just as the dwarf grabbed him.
Then, just before dissappearing onto the path, Lian leans back and yells to Falin. "Falin, are the soldiers still outsi...." The sentence trails off.
Ingrge Tuesday June 4th, 2002 8:58:12 PM
Ushering the others on in front of him ingrge is the last to step on the path.
DM kent Tuesday June 4th, 2002 9:08:58 PM
As each of you steps on to the pink path, the room vanishes. All that you are aware of are the intertwining paths, each calling for you to follow them, and now each path is seemingly three dimensional. The arrows are now glowing a deep blood red.
Just up ahead you see Olanna still tied to her end of the rope, and much further ahead you ca see a shadowy figure. The elves find that moving along the path somehow feels right. Not easy, but right. For the others it takes full concentration to remain focussed on staying on the correct path.
Oddly enoungh you can not physically hear each other, but you suddenly can hear each other in your minds as if you are talking.
In the midst of getting used to the new form of communication you are all suddenly assaulted by the sounds of battle and the death cries of each god as they die. (Everyone needs to make a will save of DC 20 or fall senseless to the floor. Anyone who worships any of the newly fallen gods needs to make an additional will save DC 20 to keep sane.)
As if the death of the gods isn't enough you find youselves engulfed in a kaleidoscope of color as the paths all start to pulse in a strobe like manner. Around you, you can feel the tremors of the tower being shaken down to its foundation. In addition, the air is now filled with a high pitched whine that hurts the ears.
Figment d20+7=25 Tuesday June 4th, 2002 11:09:24 PM
The mage focuses all his attention on the path, knowing they must get to the end. He grits his teeth through all the sounds and new sensations and keeps his wits about him. "FOCUS!". He thinks loudly to the others, "We are on the right path!". He proceeds forward and attempts to help anyone in front of him who succumbs to the death crys. If they cannot be helped, he leaves them and moves on.
Olana d20+5=13 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 1:35:52 AM
Olana continues to walk slowly and determinedly along the path, convinced that Milo is just up ahead. She smiles as suddenly she can "hear" the voices of her companions. On the verge of calling out to them in her thoughts, she begins to hear the terrible cries as the Gods begin their slaughter of one another. She falters on the path, trying to get her bearings, using every tracking sense she has, but then - as the kaleidoscope assaults her eyes and the path begins to shake, it becomes all too much and she falls.
The last voice she 'hears' is that of Figment. "Fo....cussss........"
Lian d20+8=18 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 2:41:42 AM
OOC: Will Save of 18.
Lian begins to look around, then falls to the floor is convulsions, muttering senselessly.
Bertram (sub Jay) d20+8=9 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 2:48:06 AM
OOC:Will Save of 9, +2 spell/like effects racial dwarven bonus.
The dwarven cleric watches Lian fall into spasms, then follows his lead. Brother Bertram begins twitching, but stays on his feet momentarily, then falls.
"Domi, why.... I need...." He murmers.
Milo d20+6=24 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 3:05:23 AM
Milo remains steady, flinching ever-so-slightly, but remains on his feet, and on the pink path. The halfling moves as quick as his feet will carry him, to the end of this path. (OOC: Made a Will save DC 24.)
K'Nara d20=1 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 6:59:20 AM
K'Nara's human senses betrayed her--she fell to the ground in a quivering, gibbering heap.
Figment Wednesday June 5th, 2002 9:48:29 AM
Seeing the state of the party, the mage thinks to Milo. "Milo, everyone but us has fallen. Come help me!". The mage makes sure everyone is close by dragging them together and waits for Milo. He slaps gently on K'Nara's cheek to try and rouse her.
Ingrge d20+6=20 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 9:51:34 AM
Following along behind the others, Ingrge feels a sense of belonging that he hasn't felt in a long time. Something familiar seems to be calling him along the pink path.
Then the screams and cries of the dying gods intrude on his awareness, followed quickly by the strobing, flashing colored lights. Momentarily stunned and barely remaining concious, Ingrge watches as several others in front of him fall writhing to the ground.
As quickly as he can he makes his way to aid Figment to get the others up and as he gets to each one he ties the rope around each of their waists.
Falin d20+1=4 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 12:12:06 PM
Falin knocks an arrow in his bow and steps onto the path as he closes his eyes. He reopens them only to fall to the ground in a sensless heap.
DM Kent d20+4=17 d20+4=16 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 7:27:02 PM
Figment gives K'nara a gentle slap and is rewarded by her eyes snapping open. There is a glaze over her eyes that Figment has seen only on those who are not aware of what is going on around them.
Ingrge reaches Falin as he falls give him a shake as he ties the rope around his waist. As he finishes the tying Falin comes to a semi concious state.
After several moments of the shaking and the strobe effects things settle back down and soon you are looking at the paths again, each calling to you and pulling on you.
Milo makes it to the end of the path and finds there is something waiting there for him. (see email)
Figment d4+1=5 Wednesday June 5th, 2002 8:47:49 PM
The mage shakes his head as Milo once again in his estimation completely disregards everyone else and acts on his own. "I'd say we'd better get to the end of the path. Our halfling friend has decided he can take on the tower alone!". He moves with the others down the path. Before they get to the end of the path, the mage casts Cat's Grace on K'Nara (+5 Dex). "Might as well be ready, we'll need it.". He holds his spell if the effects on the path make it impossible to cast.
Milo Wednesday June 5th, 2002 10:16:20 PM
Hearing Figment in his head is quite disconcerting as Milo makes his way down the path. Not realizing that his friends had joined him on this perilous trip. Concentrating, he thinks back to him, 'I don't know how much help I'd be, I'm having a really tough time, stayin' on my own two feet.... uh oh... I've really done it this time.' Milo's mental voice wavers.
Lian Thursday June 6th, 2002 12:59:38 AM
~Twitch... twitch~
Bertram (sub Jay) Thursday June 6th, 2002 1:02:43 AM
"... Domi....dead?"
The dwarf continues to spasm.
K'Nara (Cat's Grace--Dex now 23?) d20=20 Thursday June 6th, 2002 6:58:07 AM
The attention paid to her by Ingrge and Figment resulted in snapping the leader of the Emerald Talons back to her senses.
"Sisters take me!" the female fighter gasped as she shook off the last of the disorienting and surreal mental effects of the Elven magic around her. "It's stuff like this that makes me wonder if I'm truly meant to train as a bladesinger..." K'Nara rolled back to her feet as she instinctively scooped up her fallen weapon.
"Milo..?" she called--was it mentally or physically?--frowning as she, too, realized that the roguish cleric of Alemi was too far away for her comfort. Pausing only long enough to untie the rope just secured around her waist.
"Ingrge--try to help snap the others out of it," she ordered, stepping away from the rope, "I'll go back up Milo...if he needs it. Join us as soon as you can..!" So saying, the redhead sprinted down the path towards the far-away figure of Milo--and whatever he was addressing.
Olana d20+5=21 Thursday June 6th, 2002 11:46:11 AM
(Succeeded another check, just - if its allowed - )
Groggily the elf comes to her senses and begins to crawl along the path, and will try and help with the others.
(If still out -) Olana still lies on the path, completely out of it.
Is This The End? [CDM Jerry] Thursday June 6th, 2002 12:09:18 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.
DM kent Thursday June 6th, 2002 1:26:28 PM
With Olanna's help, Ingrge and Figment manage to get everyone up and moving, if not totally cognizent of where they are or where they are going.
Taking the lead, Ingrge has everyone roped togther with olanna bringing up the rear in hopes that the elven contingent can manage to aid in making their passage easier.
K'nara moves quickly ahead to try and catch up to Milo and oft times feels like she is running thru molasses. (Will DC 14 to stay on pink path) As she finally gets to where she can see the end of the path, she spies Milo facing what truly can only be described as a nightmare. (see email)
Milo faces this nightmare and registers K'nara's comment about catching up to help you, just as the creature speaks. Oh my, someone with manners. My name? Well Let's see, in my language it would be... Oh, but you could not pronounce it or understand it. I guess in the tongue that you are adressing me in, it would roughly translate to Mir Oculus....
DM Kent Thursday June 6th, 2002 1:43:09 PM
At that moment The tower and paths shake and oscilate yet again. Being more prepared this time, or perhaps because of the guidance of the party's elves, the Talons manage to remain upright and on the path although it feels as though they are each trying to run against the current, through waist high water.
As more Gods scream their death cries, visions leap to your minds of the end of the world, you sense more than feel mountains rising up through the ground while whole lakes boil and then disappear.
Milo senses all of this and more as the walls of the tower seem to melt away and reveal an amazing sight. Behind his host is very pastoral and peaceful looking cove. It is obvously twilight which suprises him, as Milo is sure that it can't be more than midmorning at the latest.
Having introduce himself, Milo's host looks perplexed for a moment as things shift and change around him. Then as K'nara comes busting around the corner, he rises a bit and asks her to stop where she is. Once she has complied he looks between the two and remarks.
"I don't know who you are, or what your coming means, but it is all very strange. Since this tower was built over this place, Never has there been any but elves who have walked these paths. I sense more of you coming. Why are you here? What do you want? And why should I let you live?"
Lian Thursday June 6th, 2002 9:47:02 PM
The elfs twitching stops just to be replaced by stillness and incoherant muttering. Eyes glazed, the monk stares into teh ceilings abyss.
Bertram (sub Jay) Thursday June 6th, 2002 9:49:47 PM
Now in a fetal position, Bertram continues to speak with the spirits. He mutters.
"....so many Gods.... are now three...."
Milo Thursday June 6th, 2002 10:33:32 PM
"Well met Mr. Oculus. My friends and I are on a quest to discover a powerful weapon left here by Parnoth. A weapon than we may use in the war against the dark god Marteus, who seeks to destroy the Wold and all who live in it. In a strange way, that makes us allies, for I can only assume that you do not want to be destroyed by Marteus any more than we do. If you could help us, we'd be ever so grateful. Thank you for listening before destroying us utterly. For this I am most assuredly thankful." Milo puts on a face of complete diplomacy and understanding throughout his speech while holding his hand back for K'nara to grab if she needs something to hold on to.
Olana Friday June 7th, 2002 12:34:28 AM
Olana tries to rouse Lian and Falin to a better state of wakefulness, talking to them softly in elven as they traverse the path.
"Draw on the power of this place, let it give you strength" she says, "and know that our non-elven brothers and sisters will need help here."
K'Nara (Cat's Grace) d20=19 Friday June 7th, 2002 6:59:56 AM
(OOC: made the Will save to continue walking on the path.)
K'Nara stopped when she caught up to Milo, staring at the cyclopian creature that was floating before them.
No, wait--cyclops only had ONE eye, and this thing technically had a total of eleven...
Her head hurt from trying to ponder the point, so the leader of the Talons abandoned the logic.
"We are the Emerald Talons, sir," she told the floating thing, "And I am K'Nara Illutu. I see you've met Milo, here...and we wouldn't be bothering with the Tower or intruding on you, either, if it weren't REALLY important. You see, The Wold is in serious trouble and we're here to try to stop this guy who wants to become a god from taking over everything and destroying The Wold while he's at it. There's supposed to be something here to help us to do that, and we're here to get it and save The Wold."
Gods, she was babbling. K'Nara hated it when she babbled, but the latest wave of god deaths underscored the urgency of their mission, and the pressure was starting to get on her nerves.
"Please...we will fight you if we have to...but I really don't want to--I want to save The Wold." she said simply.
Figment d20+4=16 d20+6=21 Friday June 7th, 2002 9:53:39 AM
The mage struggles through the quagmire, anxious to get a look at this creature Milo is apparently encountering (Made save). He exits the path prepared to cast but takes no offensive action. He lets K'Nara handle the discussion - with the beholder! He looks over the place behind the creature and sees if there is anything in his experience that would tell him what this place is (Int DC 21).
DM kent Monday June 10th, 2002 9:12:14 AM
K'nara rounds the corner and starts in on her head pounding conversation.
Figment soon comes behind her and thinks that perhaps he may have read something about a place like the one he sees in an old elven tome, but he can't totally recall.
Ingrge and Olanna, get the others up and moving and soon are at the end of the path facing their host and the twilight scene behind him. Ingrge and Olanna suddenly feel a deep longing sadness and fell younger than they have ever remember feeling.
Mir Oculus listens to K'nara for a moment and then laughs. "You think mighty highly of yourself if you think that YOU can save the Wold. That task might even be beyond that of the entire Dragon consortium, if of course you could get them working on the same thing at the same time." And as for killing me, you might have even more difficulty doing that than saving the Wold. As I am already dead, well sort of."
At that moment he fades out of sight for a moment and then immediately returns to apparent solidity.
Figment Monday June 10th, 2002 11:43:28 AM
The mage steps forward in a diplomatic fashion. "Good sir, there is no need for threats here. It is clear that you know more about all this than we. And as such you are aware that this place is threatened just as every other. We do not pretend to be able to save the Wold. We are merely doing our part. Or, at least, trying to. Your help in this would be most appreciated - and may, in fact, help yourself in the process. Are you willing to help? Or at least not interfere. We have no desire to fight you, only to retrieve the item we seek and leave.".
Milo Monday June 10th, 2002 9:15:10 PM
Milo pipes in after Figment, "Is there anything, or service we may offer you in exchange for safe passage through your home? As a group our skills are many and varied, surely there is something that you would like, or like done."
Olana Monday June 10th, 2002 11:35:04 PM
Olana emerges from the tunnel and gasps at the sight of the Beholder. She breathes a sigh of relief on seeing that Milo is alright, and stays back as she can see K'Nara, Milo and Figment are talking to the creature.
As an aside she whispers to Ingrge, and Lian. 'Do you feel this? I feel energized, but for some reason I want to cry. What does it mean?'
Lian Tuesday June 11th, 2002 12:44:16 AM
Lian listens to Olana, then answers. "Yes. I had a momentary feeling like the one your discribing. However, seeing this... well, whatever you call it with the eyes, I am far less enthused." He looks at the floating freak, then smirks and looks back at Olana. "Figment always tries SO hard to please, does he not? Milo, on the other hand, has a steady grasp of things most of the time." Under his breath, and facing Ingrge and Bertram, he askes something thats been on his mind since the final three Gods were left standing. "Do you suppose the clerics of the remaining three Gods have gotten stronger or weaker?"
Bertram (sub Jay) Tuesday June 11th, 2002 12:51:33 AM
Looking and his elven friend, Bertram chimes in. "My faith in Domi is still strong, so I would expect the clerics of the remaining three have just as strong convictions as I." Looking at Milo, Bertram says in a loud voice and holding back a snicker. "Well, I see Milo's not tippy-toeing around the subject is he!?" Bertram is gripping his axe in front of him ... just in case.
K'Nara Tuesday June 11th, 2002 7:26:36 AM
K'Nara eyed the Eye Tyrant...then had to laugh.
"You're right, of course, Mir Oculus," she agreed, bowing, "I have a mighty high opinion of myself to think that I could save The Wold...but it's actually that I have a mighty high opinion of my colleagues. I just know that we can make a difference somehow--and whatever is in this tower is a key to making that difference." Once more, the human's canny hazel eyes sweep the circumferance of the floating creature.
"You know, that's the second time today that I've heard about how being undead can make things difficult..." she mused, then addressed Mir Oculus again: "We've been contacted by the newest Dragon Consortium--that's why we're here. To help them save The Wold."
Ingrge Tuesday June 11th, 2002 7:39:04 AM
Ingrge looks at Olanna like she has lost her mind and then with a slight shake of the head whispers. "I believe we look upon one of the few ancient leavetaking places. It is calling to me, but I fear it is not yet my time to leave the Wold, nor do I think, is it yours, my lady."
DM kent Tuesday June 11th, 2002 7:53:38 AM
Switching his gaze from speaker to speaker, Mir Oculus gets a big tothy grin on his face as Milo suggest some sort of payment for passing. "Funny you should mention an offering. There is a requirement that a sacrifice be offered before any group may pass and I get to choose that sacrifice whether it be an animate one or inanimate one. If you agree to this stipulation, you may not argue my choice or you all shall perish. If you choose not to accept this stipulation then you will remain here with me forever."
If possible Oculus' grin gets even larger and more toothy.
"And before you ask you may not know what I will request before you make your decision."
Milo Tuesday June 11th, 2002 10:31:24 AM
Looking up at Mir Oculus, "I cannot accept this on behalf of the group, however, I do accept it on my own behalf." Thinking for a moment. "I will pay the price for my friends passage. Name it."
Figment Tuesday June 11th, 2002 11:08:56 AM
The mage considers carefully the words of the protector. "I have 2 questions about what you say. First, when you say 'before we pass', is that pass in or out? And second, I know you will not tell us what the sacrifice is, but will you tell us what it is not - if we provide you this sacrifice, will we all walk out of here alive?"
Olana Tuesday June 11th, 2002 11:55:54 PM
Listening to what is being said, Olana then speaks quietly to the other elves at the back. "A leavetaking place. Now I understand. I have never been old enough to visit one before."
As the huge creature in front of them states it's ultimatum, she looks around at all her friends. What did it want, she wondered? If it was a life then it was more likely to be an elven one, if it's requirements were in anyway connected to this place. If not - maybe it wanted them all - or nothing. Magical creatures were baffling at the best of times.
They looked unlikely to get any further until this had been settled. "I accept," she says.
Lian Wednesday June 12th, 2002 1:51:52 AM
Lian listens to the beast, then thinks to himself; 'Are we all going to be eaten? Do we each have to sacrifice, or was it a singular sacrifice for all? Do we have to sacrifice for the entry and exit? DOES IT REQUIRE JUST ELVEN BLOOD??'
The elvish monk probably oversteps his station by asking the following question. He steps forward. "There is a solemn feeling here that the elves in our party have felt. Why is that? How many elves have perished here to you?"
His serious features straighten, then he steps back. "Sorry K'nara, I had to ask."
Bertram (sub Jay) Wednesday June 12th, 2002 3:36:31 AM
Bertram just stands, watching. Hearing Lians question, the dwarf just smirks at the elfs bravado.
K'Nara Wednesday June 12th, 2002 6:28:48 AM
The tall human female smiled at Lian's words, but her amusement was short-lived. K'Nara looked around at the others before answering the hovering undead:
"For all that I've been appointed the leader of the Emerald Talons, I can't demand that they sacrifice themselves...I leave that choice to each person. However, speaking for myself--I, too, pledge to accept your terms."
Ingrge Wednesday June 12th, 2002 8:37:51 AM
Know this. This is an ancient elven place of leave taking. Older elves come here when they are tired of the Wold and use this as an exit to another place away from this world. What we see is an extension of the Wold; sort of a launching site. That being the case, the portal casues no harm to the elves using it and none die because of it. I have heard of only a few non elves that have been allowed to join the elves on their leave taking. I expect that the portal is one way only, but that there is a way back to the normal world. For My part I agree to your terms.
DM Kent Wednesday June 12th, 2002 8:51:28 AM
Listening to the group's discussions, Mir Oculus seems amused by the disagreements and the hedging. After each Talon has had their say Oculus looks at Figment and the others and attempts to answer their questions.
" I have not known of any that have passed back through this portal, but then I know of none that wanted to either. The sacrifice is for the passage to the leavetking place, sort of a symbolic showing of the willingnes to leave things of this world behind. As to whether you all walk out of here or not I can not say for I never know what the sacrifice will be until it comes to me. As to how may elves have perished HERE to Me, I can say none that came here to use the portal and agreed to the sacrifice have died.
Now I need your decision please, or their may be several firsts
Figment Wednesday June 12th, 2002 9:17:36 AM
The mage turns to the others. "I see no need to fight this creature. Even if we prevailed - which its very possible we would not, it would probably cost us more not to agree than to agree. If we do not retrieve the relic, then anything else we retain is essentially worthless anyway. Besides, we will have a claim against the Green Meanie if we have to pay to get in. I will agree to a sacrifice.".
Milo Wednesday June 12th, 2002 8:08:24 PM
"Name your sacrifice, I'm prepared to pay." Milo stands resolutely before the guardian.
Lian Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:29:19 PM
Lian listens to the other Talons and their answers. He kept telling himself, 'The Talons wouldn't agree to the sacrifice, but more than half HAVE agreed to it. You think you have people figured out, then they surprise you!'
"I will agree to your terms, though, it is against my better judgement. Greater elves than I, have left in this manner." Lian bows humbly to the beast.
Bertram (sub Jay) Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:36:53 PM
OOC: I don't feel comfortable making such a decision for Mark, however, I will.
Bertram steps forward. "I agree."
Olana Thursday June 13th, 2002 12:34:38 AM
As the others make their decision, Olana becomes aware that there is no turning back here. Outside, they were surrounded. If they tried to fight their way out they'd be dead for sure. As for the alternative - She had no idea what lay beyond, but she was getting more afraid by the minute. Battling her fears, she tries her best not to let it show on her face, overdoing it slightly. Her jaw looks a little too firm, her eyes a little too impassive.
DM Kent Thursday June 13th, 2002 10:03:05 AM
As each Talon agrees to Mir Oculus' terms he lifts himself higher so that each member must pass beneath him to go through the portal. Just before Ingrge steps through Mir Oculus nods his head and comments, "Now that is quiet a nice staff you have there elf." Ingrge glares at him but continues walking through. there is a flash of light and then you see a dim Ingrge shaped figure on the other side.
As each of you walks through the portal Mir Oculus comments on your most powerful or favorite item and each of you step through the portal there is a flash and then the process starts over again for the next Talon.
Ingrge goes, then Milo, then Figment, Olanna goes thru, and is followed by Lian, K'nara and Bertram with Falin bringing up the rear.
As each of you passes through you turn to look back and see a very dim outline of a door with swirling colors behind it.
As Bertram comes through there is a final flash and the door is no longer there. Looking around you realize that Falin is no longer with you.
(OoC> Jay Mark says he will be ready to take Bertram back over Monday evening. Thanks for your help)
Figment d20+8=17 Thursday June 13th, 2002 12:26:01 PM
The mage's blood turns cold as his headband comes under scrutiny. He is relieved when he gets to the other side, with it still intact, but then looks around in alarm as Falin is not with them. He looks back through to se if he can see him through the gate (DC 17).
Olana Thursday June 13th, 2002 4:46:39 PM
Olana crouches slightly as she passes beneath Oculus, and is relieved to get through unscathed.
"Why didn't Falin pass though?" she asks as the doorway disappears, not wanting to openly suggest that it is he that was taken for the sacrifice. Mind you, she thinks to herself, the creature said no one would be harmed. She starts to wonder what shape her magic bow is in.
Lian Thursday June 13th, 2002 7:30:36 PM
Passing through the portal, Lian leaves the gate and his feet are bare. His slippers are gone, he barely notices as he rummages inside his pack and puts back on his sandals.
"Well, that was quite disconcerting. Where is Falin?" He looks around. "Where are we?"
He looks around for a familiar sight, if there is one.
K'Nara Friday June 14th, 2002 7:00:41 AM
The human bladesinger stepped through the portal, her grip on her beloved Lucia tightening unconsciously as Mir Oculus comments on the enchanted weapon.
She'd only just gotten it fixed! It was a gift from the Gold Dragons...how could she possibly give it up??? But then, again, with the entire Wold at stake--how could she not?
K'Nara didn't protest and simply passed through the magical opening...and was immensely relieved to find that she was still gripping Lucia. Whew!
But when Falin's absence was pointed out, the leader of the Emerald Talons whirled around and looked for herself.
"Falin..?" she asked, calling. "Falin? Falin!?"
Ingrge Friday June 14th, 2002 8:49:37 AM
Relieved to find his staff still in his posession, Ingrge waits and watches as the others pass through, giving each a nod as they enter the twilight zone. His only reaction to Falin not coming through is the raising of an eyebrow, it is almost as if he knew what was going to occur. As the others check their belongings, Ingrge checks the layout of the clearing they are in.
DM kent Friday June 14th, 2002 8:59:48 AM
Figment's look back at the gate comfirms what he saw before, and that is that there is no longer a gate visible. Where the gate would have been are two ancient trees: one an oak and the other an Ironwood.
As Ingrge looks aroound the clearing, he notices that there are two paths either entering or exiting the clearing. the rest of the clearing is surrounded By the largest trees you have seen outside of the Tree of Parting. What is surprising is that no two trees are alike. Each is ancient specimen of its species.
Sitting in the middle of the meadow is a small huumock that rises about three feet.
(Lian, your slippers are only left behind if you choose them to be.)
Lian Friday June 14th, 2002 9:33:55 AM
Having kicked off his Slippers just before passing through the gate and stowed them in his bag, Lian figured; 'Why get something so valuable, dirty. I do not know what is beyond the gate, desert, marsh...'
"Well now, there is Milo, K'nara, Figment, Olana, Ingrge, Brother Bertram and myself. We are dwindling. Seven... we were nine!" The monk broods, or was it sulking... was there a difference?
"Perhaps Falin was the sacrifice for us all. Perhaps the sacrifice is not yet apparent." As the elf looks, gestering in the direction of the meadow.
Bertram (sub Jay) Friday June 14th, 2002 9:40:16 AM
Gripping his axe as they pass through, Bertram bumps the monk who was removing his slippers. "Please warn me before you stop directly in front of me Friend." The dwarf just smiles and continues through the portal.
When Falin doesn't appear with them in the clearing, Bertram simply says; "Oh dear." Those two words seem to convey what all the Talons were thinking.
Milo Friday June 14th, 2002 9:56:36 AM
As Milo steps out into the open air, he realizes the amount of tension he was carrying through that last, most dangerous encounter, and letting it go, allows tears to well up in his eyes as he collapses to his knees. For a moment, he remains on his knees, silently praying to Alemi, and then for Alemi before he rises once again. Without shame he proceeds to the center of the clearing.
Olana Friday June 14th, 2002 11:06:12 AM
Olana looks around in wonder. "I wonder where we are?" she whispers, her eyes taking in the scene, her memory searching. Was this another part of Culverwood?
Figment d20+6=12 d20+16=33 Friday June 14th, 2002 2:22:27 PM
The mage considers carefully the legends of the ancient magic places of the Wold to mine for what place exactly this might be (Int DC12, Arcana DC 33). He also makes a request. "If nobody yet has donned it, I would like to use the cloak from the lich. It would seem it isn't evil and it most certainly is magic. After we determine what it is - whenever we have some time to spare I can do that - then we can decide what to do with it.".
After looking around the clearing (and making sure to memorize which trees the gate appeared between). He rolls the riddle over in his head once again...
"Beware the silent warriors!
Two Die!
He is stripping the skin from the earth.
Find/Use the Five Arrows of Death.
Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
The Destiny of the Wold is to conquer all.
Travel along the wandering path." "So we've found and used the 5 arrows I suppose. I'm not sure regarding the next 2 lines, but I wonder if the wandering path was the one we just got off of, or the one just now before us? I also suppose there's nothing that says these lines are in order either...".
The mage looks down both paths to see if there is any difference in them.
K'Nara Monday June 17th, 2002 6:36:06 AM
"I did mention that I hate puzzles, right..?" the worried human bladesinger reiterated, looking around the Talons' new surroundings.
"We don't have much choice, Figment," K'Nara admitted, "We have to keep going. Olana, Ingrge, Lian...do any of you glean any clues whatsoever about whether one of these paths feels...ummmm...'more correct' than the other..? If so, we'll follow that path. If not...well...we may as well go forward and bear right."
Ingrge Monday June 17th, 2002 8:35:19 AM
standing in reverent silence and running his hands along one of the ancient trees, Ingrge misses what the others are saying until K'nara asks her question. Looking around at the two paths, he nods his head and confers with Olanna and Lian for a moment.
DM kent Monday June 17th, 2002 8:56:03 AM
As Milo makes his way to the hummock and Ingrge starts to answer her questions, there is a loud vibrant hum and in front of milo, encompassing the entire hummock, is a golden colored rotating cylindrical column of shimmering light. There seems to be a figure inside of the column but who/whatever it is is not very substantive.
Milo make a general knowledge role DC10 to see if you recognize the figure.
Figment is only sure that there is no place like this anywhere within a week or two travel's time. while at the same time there is a feel similar to that of the DEEP Culverwood.
Olanna, Lian, and Ingrge feel confident without knowing why that the left path leads to the actual place of leavetaking and are kind of drawn that way. They also know that the right path leads away. Where they dont know.
Figment Monday June 17th, 2002 11:34:09 AM
The mage is drawn to the hummock as it ignites in gold. "We are in Deep Culverwood - somewhere... That's all I know. What have we here?".
Milo d20+1=14 Monday June 17th, 2002 9:00:35 PM
Milo is startled as the column of golden light bursts forth. Peering into its depths, the spark of recognition comes into Milo's eyes as he views the figure.
(OOC: Made the knowledge check DC 14)
Brother Bertram Monday June 17th, 2002 9:34:46 PM
Bertram is torn between wondering about Falin and marveling at thier new location.
Lian d20+15=20 Monday June 17th, 2002 11:25:37 PM
Lian humbly bows to Olana. "If this is Culverwood, you should guide us good Lady. This is your home, is it not?"
Lian looks at the left path and nods back to Ingrge.
The monk walks up silently to Bertram, not to disturb him in him reverance of this place. "It is quite beautiful, is it not Friend?"
OOC: Lian is paying very close attention to the forest and it's sounds (listen of 20).
Olana Tuesday June 18th, 2002 12:30:57 AM
Olana bows in return to Lian. "Part of it is my home, yes, and I would gladly guide if I knew where we were. The problem with Culverwood, is that it has a mind of its own and can deceive you. If it wishes you lost - then lost you become, and I do not immediately recognise this place. "It might be better if we all focussed our senses on the path."
She too nods at Ingrge, and then explains to K'Nara what they feel. "We are not ready for the left path - not yet. It draws us to the leavetaking place. As for the right path - that leads into the unknown."
She then takes position near the right path, on guard, as the others examine the cylinder.
K'Nara Tuesday June 18th, 2002 6:11:22 AM
K'Nara--in the middle of removing the lich's cloak from her backpack and giving it to Figment--was caught off-guard by the sudden appearance of the golden figure. She hastily gave the cloak to the party's wizard and warily took up her sword again, eyeing the magical glowing being.
"Milo..? A friend of yours, perhaps..?" she asked, nodding to the alien form.
Ingrge d20=1 Tuesday June 18th, 2002 8:01:39 AM
Ingrge too is drawn to the golden light and peers in, but can't even see the figure inside.
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 18th, 2002 8:33:20 AM
Bertram turns to Lian, "It cannot compare with a mountain morning but it is quite beautiful Friend Lian."
DM Kent Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:48:08 AM
As Milo peers into the goldem maelstrom he somehow recognizes that the being inside is none other than King Claudia. He relays this information to the others and those who were in the Butterfly Meadow on that day, which seems like decades ago, feel the tears welling up as they remember the meeting between Joe and Claudia.
After a few moments the swirling stops there is the smell of summer and then it is gone. Now sitting on the hummock is a gold-colored piece of paper and eight small vials, each filled with a live black and red twelve-legged grub.
On the paper is quite a bit of writing. First there is a story that confirms what most of you had figured out. The story is about Alemi and his battle with the Cult Gods and how he had to become an undead in order to defeat them.
The second part is in a different hand and signed by King Claudia, but is dated almost fifty years ago. It says.
Dearest Talons, If you are reading this, then what was feared has come to pass and things are now at a critical point. As you have figured out the only way a mortal may defeat a god is by becoming an undead being. The second part of the way to defeat a god is that you must enter the realm of the dead. So there are two tasks ahead of you. I can help with the first, and aid in the second, but you must find your way to making these things happen. The process of becoming an undead is not a pleasant one or one without dangers and consequences. You will not emerge unscathed from this, but I hope you see that the alternative is much worse. Use the grubs sooner rather than later. As for entering the realm of the dead, You know where and when to meet, and I will help you make your way in. Perhaps my husband will join you as well. Once again our meeting will be bittersweet, but perhaps once again good will triumph.
Claudia
(OOC, K'nara don't forget to contact Grey now that you all have found out the info you needed to. Please post your message and I will email to Anthony.)
Figment Tuesday June 18th, 2002 5:49:33 PM
The mage's blood runs cold as he reads the scroll being hit full in the face with what this says. He eyes the grubs. "So we are to become what we just destroyed?!? And how exactly are we to 'undo' this transformation? And if there are those who know how to kill a god - for at least 50 years - then why is it not shared with the Gold Dragons - or do they know this already?". The mages' mid reels at the possibilities - and his horrer grows, remembering all the dead things he has 'killed' in the past. Now he is to be one too!
Lian Tuesday June 18th, 2002 6:35:15 PM
The elf shudders when he looks at one of the grub filled vials.
"I mentioned once before that I did not like the idea of becoming undead. I still do not like it. How can we be sure that we can return to the 'living'? We may even run into friends who may try to kill us if they do not recognize us. I certainly would not blame them if they tried!" The elf looks more thoughtful than ever. "In fact, how can we be sure that we will even have our own wits about us when we become undead? Will we be puppets of the remaining Gods?" He ponders a moment. "Gargul. Is he not the lord of the undead? He may control undead..."
The elf gets a look of resolve on his face, then he picks up a vial. "Well, how do we use these things Figment... anyone?" Lian begins to unstopper the vial. "I will test it. This is a test, is it not? I am willing to serve as subject. If things go out of control, and I am NOT myself after this (if I begin attacking you all, unwillingly), I would like Bertram to put me down as fast as possible." The young elf looks at his dwarven friend. "Promise."
Olana Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:17:02 PM
Venturing forward to read the note, Olana's reaction is one of complete shock. She takes a few faltering steps backward.
"What cruel trick is this??" she exclaims, shaking her head and regarding the grubs with utter loathing. "After all we've been through? Whoever is behind this, is using our memories against us - hoping our recollections of King Claudia will lull us into swallowing the bait!"
Tears fill her eyes. "This can't be the answer - it can't be."
Then, as Lian takes out the grub, she takes another two steps back and nocks an arrow into her bow. Her head is swimming with the memory of those they already killed in the Tower - elves who's lives had been utterly defiled.
Ingrge d20+13=33 Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:44:00 PM
A look of disbelief crosses Ingrge's face as he listens to Claudia's message. Wandering closer, he sees the grubs and with an exclamation grabs one of the vials.
"Lian, Put that back in the vial NOW!" Lian, Figment, Olanna, I feel much the same way as you, however, I expect that LIFE under Marteus might actually be worse than being undead. Now let me look at our small friends here.
Once again looking at the Grubs. (Knowledge Arcana DC 33) he tells the others that these are souleaters, they are a form of larvae that when ingested alive absorb the life essence of a being and then burrow its way out of the body, usually exiting from the abdomen. The whole process is supposedly excruciatingly painful and takes about 24 hours to complete. Souleaters were often used as a means of torture and interrogation because afterward the grub was through with it's victim the victim's body was still animated as an undead being similar to a Zombie.
"So I expect that if we are to do this we must either place them in our mouths and let then do the rest or we can swallow them alive and whole."
Milo Wednesday June 19th, 2002 2:51:14 AM
Milo's revulsion is as plain as day on his face as he picks up a vial and examines the creature within. "I'm not sure whether to believe this or not. I will say though, that the thought of becoming undead is not a pleasant one. I'm not sure I like this option." Thinking for a moment... then speaking, "So, this is what is to become of the Talons? Zombies wandering through the land of the dead?"
K'Nara Wednesday June 19th, 2002 6:46:41 AM
The human female was silent after all the fantastic happenings--somberly silent after Ingrge identified the bugs in the vials. She was thinking--or trying to, but it was difficult because intense pondering over moral dilemmas was not her forte...but K'Nara finally stirred, reaching out and taking up the note with one hand--and touching the silver dragon-shaped earclip in her right ear with the other.
"Master Greymalkin," the human bladesinger spoke, obviously addressing the Gold Dragon through the magic device, "The Emerald Talons finally have some small contribution to make towards the Dragon Consortium's quest. We've entered the Tower of Saryd, battled some undead that were in it, spoke to an undead beholder and then exited the Tower to some kind of clearing that appears to be in the heart of the Culverwood. Here we've been visited by the ghost of King Claudia...and she left us a letter...and some grubs in sealed vials...
"On the paper is quite a bit of writing. First there is a story about Alemi and his battle with the Cult Gods..it tells us that, apparently, he had to become...an undead in order to defeat them.
"The second part is written in a different hand and signed by King Claudia--but it's dated almost fifty years ago. It says:
"Dearest Talons,
"If you are reading this, then what was feared has come to pass and things are now at a critical point. As you have figured out the only way a mortal may defeat a god is by becoming an undead being. The second part of the way to defeat a god is that you must enter the realm of the dead. So there are two tasks ahead of you. I can help with the first, and aid in the second, but you must find your way to making these things happen. The process of becoming an undead is not a pleasant one or one without dangers and consequences. You will not emerge unscathed from this, but I hope you see that the alternative is much worse. Use the grubs sooner rather than later.
"As for entering the realm of the dead, You know where and when to meet, and I will help you make your way in. Perhaps my husband will join you as well. Once again our meeting will be bittersweet, but perhaps once again good will triumph..."
K'Nara swallowed hard.
"It is signed, 'Claudia', Master Greymalkin...and I believe that the ghost and this letter ARE genuine." the leader of the Emerald Talons told the unseen Gold Dragon. "Mostly because the live bugs left for us have been identified by one of the Talons as...souleaters."
Silence reigned in the idyllic setting as K'Nara awaited the response from The Wold's original bladesinger.
Olana Wednesday June 19th, 2002 12:41:53 PM
The elf lowered her bow dejectedly as she heard Ingrge's explanation. How could it come to this? Wasn't it enough to fight and die bravely? At least there was some honour in that. But no - if this was all confirmed as true, then they would lose everything, even their souls.
Ooh, how tempting it was to walk down that path toward the place of leavetaking. Subconciously, she even took a couple of steps in that direction. The only thing that stopped her was knowing she couldn't leave the others behind to face this on their own. She just couldn't.
Instead she found herself with her head lowered, tears in her eyes, praying desperately for GreyMaulk to tell them it was all a lie.
DM kent Wednesday June 19th, 2002 5:07:43 PM
The Talons each face their own set or fears and misgivings as what they will need to do in order to aid the Wold in the fight against Marteus.
After some discussion and thought the Talons agree that the place that they must meet Claudia is the Butterfly Meadow and that they will need to be there in just under a week.
After a bit more discussion and exploration of the two paths, although Ingrge cautions the leves of the party to not journey down the one path. It is decided that the party should take the other path to leave the area and make their way to the Butterfly Meadow.
Brother Bertram 9321560 Wednesday June 19th, 2002 5:08:44 PM
Bertram looks at the vials bemusedly for a moment before sitting down pondering fate and what was in store for him and his companions.
Lian Thursday June 20th, 2002 2:51:06 AM
Lian puts the grub back in the vial.
The monk follows the rest of the group happily.
K'Nara Thursday June 20th, 2002 6:21:23 AM
"I, too, don't like the idea of having to swallow these...grubs." K'Nara conceded out loud as she tucked one of the vials into her belt pouch. "I can only hope that we may yet avoid having to do that. Meanwhile, we can start off for Butterfly Meadow even as we wait for Grey to get back to me--I'll be able to hear him over my earclip whether we are camped or traveling." After making sure that everything was secure and that each of the members of the Emerald Talons had a vial with a grub in it, K'Nara squared her shoulders.
"Let's move out, Talons!" she ordered, starting down the path that would eventually lead them to the Butterfly Meadow...
...if all went well.
Figment Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:46:09 AM
"King Claudia said to use the grubs sooner than later. We must decide what we are going to do before too much longer I fear.".
Olana Thursday June 20th, 2002 11:33:52 AM
Olana takes one of the grubs from K'Nara, looking at their leader as if she's gone completely crazy, but she tucks the thing away in a belt pouch, and sets off alongside the others. For just a moment, she stops by one of the giant trees, and her hand caresses the bark. Her mind runs through various options - all seem to end in death, undeath, slavery and servitutde to a monster, or some other nasty conclusion. She knows that somehow she will have to deal with it.
It was like she was dead already. Funny - she'd heard someone say that once about themselves in a tavern somewhere, and he didn't appear to be troubled by it.
Alemi's tale doesn't exactly inspire her either, to her - all this mess is their doing anyway. If she is truly honest with herself, she is angry, and attempting to hold back some kind of blind fury which has been growing within like a poisonous vine. All this destruction - so pointless, so stupid. What about all these trees, and the animals, and her tribe elsewhere in Culverwood?
The only thing stopping her from losing it altogether is the sight of her companions here. They are all she has left. Something to fight for. Someone to fight with. And if she can somehow harness that fury, and use it...
DM kent Thursday June 20th, 2002 7:29:16 PM
The talons make their way across the field to the path and as they step through the ring of anciet trees, everything changes. Where just moments before it was twilight, with a new moon and the first stars showing, it is now mid day just as it should be. The surrounding trees are no longer the ancient ones and there is much more woodland noise to be heard. In addition there is the sm,ell of burning wood and something else not quite as nice wafting through the air. The path leads eastward and in the near distance you hear the sound of flowing water. Ingrge and Olanna appear to think that you might be somewhere north of the Pease Blossom River near the Windborn Hills. As you recal the Butterfly Meadow was just NW of the Tree of Parting which is on the eastern edge of the Emerald Kingdom.
Milo Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:40:51 PM
Milo grits his teeth as he slips the vial with the grub into a pouch. Then taking a deep breath he strides up on the path next to Olana, and looking up at her, he proclaims, "If it was good enough for Alemi, it is good enough for me."
Lian d20+15=34 Thursday June 20th, 2002 10:04:53 PM
The elf just follows happily, as always.
"Ho-hum."
OOC: Listening for strange or unusual sounds, DC 34.
Brother Bertram d20=2 Thursday June 20th, 2002 10:11:19 PM
Bertram follows along warily looking for foes. He also regards the strange vial and all that it might portend.
K'Nara Friday June 21st, 2002 6:26:29 AM
"Aye, mage, I know that the advice was to use the grubs sooner rather than later," K'Nara conceded to Figment, "However, I think we should travel until we are within a day of reaching the Butterfly Meadow before doing so, since--as Ingrge's explanation of the use of these things would have me think--we will all be incapacitated for at least a day when we do so..." Then a thought seems to occur to K'Nara and a strange look passes over her face. "...unless...unless we stagger the times each of us swallows their grub..."
Suddenly K'Nara's vial was in her hand.
"I would never ask anyone to do what I wasn't willing to do myself." she said firmly--then promptly uncorked the vial and, with the practiced finesse of a lifetime pub-crawler knocking back a shot of Deep Dwarf whiskey, she swallowed the grub within.
"Okay, then..." the human bladesinger stated with a nod, "...let's keep going. I'd like to get as far away from here--and as close to the Meadow as possible--before the next person has to swallow their grub."
Olana Friday June 21st, 2002 10:49:54 AM
Olana smiles, seeing the conviction in Milo's eyes, and does her best to give the impression she has accepted their fate.
She doesn't even flinch when K'Nara pops the evil grub into her mouth. Noting that Bertram and Lian appear to have the scouting under control, she keeps an eye on K'Nara for any signs of change and will help her if she becomes too incapacitated.
Figment Friday June 21st, 2002 3:17:35 PM
The mage is horrified as the warrior woman swallows the critter. With a look of defeat, he says "I think perhaps it would have been better to let one of our primary fighters go first - but I guess it makes no different now. I would suggest you give us your weapons quickly and sit down near a tree. That way I can web you if get out of control.". The mage sets up, ready to cast.
Ingrge Friday June 21st, 2002 7:40:09 PM
Walking along, lost in his thoughts, Ingrge doesn't register what K'nara is saying and doing until it is too late. "K'Nara, don't ..." Shaking his head for a second, he then turns toward K'nara and the others. No need to stop, at least for now, we have while before she become incapacitated and then we will need to stop walking for a full day once the grub starts it's work."
DM kent Friday June 21st, 2002 7:47:49 PM
K'nara pops the little beast into her mouth and swallows. Two things happen: First as the grub passes in to her throat, she feels it extend its legs and sink its claws into the lining of her thoat and come to a stop. Almost at the same time she feels/tastes some thing really acrid and bitter coat the base of her tongue and throat as it oozes downward. Bare moments later K'nara no longer has any feeling on her tongue and in her throat and she feels the numbness spread along her esophogus. As the numbness spreads she feels the grub start inching its way down her throat one claw at a time.
Lian Friday June 21st, 2002 8:48:18 PM
"Perhaps it should have been me K'nara. The Talons have need of a coherant leader at the moment. It would be easier to carry me about, as I am..." He pauses searching for the correct wording. "...of a more slight frame. By no means am I saying your neglecting your duty, however, my body may react differently than yours." Thinking a moment, the monk asks Figment two very simple sounding questions. "Are these grubs magical in nature? Or do the have an inherant capability of turning the host to an undead state?" He waits for an answer. "Oh, I guess, perhaps, I have other questions. Is the effect of the grub infectous in nature? Meaning, is it a decease carrier?"
Brother Bertram Friday June 21st, 2002 10:51:33 PM
Bertram murmurs a prayer as K'nara grabs the grub and swallows it down. He pales seeing the grub form a lump in her throat.. Bertram's knees feel weak as he tracks the grub by its agonizingly slow journey down the brave warrior's throat. "By the Gods that is no way for a valiant companion to die!" He then grows quiet knowing that they would all see this again, as one by one, they each had to face this nightmare.
Milo Sunday June 23rd, 2002 2:11:37 AM
Milo's head swivels to face K'nara as if in slow motion, and the look of surprise is evident on the halfling's face. Surprise quickly changes to frustration, "Oh Bloody Hell, Knara! You may be the leader, but I'm the point-man. You aren't doing this without me." With that the halfling's lightning reflexes take over as he deftly removes the vial with the grub from his pouch, pops the lid with his thumb, and likewise knocks back the critter, swallowing for all he is worth.
K'Nara Monday June 24th, 2002 6:29:12 AM This is NOT gonna be fun at all... K'Nara thought to herself with a bit of a grimace. She was also heartily wishing that Milo hadn't swallowed his quite so quickly--she wanted only one of their number incapacitated at any one time...but the deed was done, and the die was cast.
"Heah, Inghgeeee..." the leader of the Talons told the elven warrior-wizard, handing him Lucia, the scimitar, the spare bastard sword, her daggers and quiver of arrows, too. Her words sounded thick and slurred--speaking with a numb tongue felt weird and sounded even weirder. "...hooooold theve fo' meeeee...thummun take Miloooooo'th thtuffff, toooooo...then wait fo' theve twoooo grubth tooooo worrrrrrrrk b'fo' mo' uv yoooooou thwallow."
Figment Monday June 24th, 2002 10:38:19 AM
The mage sighs as the impetuous cleric follows suit. He makes sure they sit down next to a large tree. "Easy folks. No more until wwe see what happens to our friends here.".
Olana Monday June 24th, 2002 12:16:33 PM
Olana clamps her hand over her mouth to stop herself from crying out as Milo chows down on his own grub.
There are all kinds of horrible scenarios going through her head right now. What if this 'was' a trick and they'd have to kill those who'd taken the grub? What if watching the transformation was so horrific and repulsive that she wouldn't have the strength to take her own.
She found her hands trembling slightly, as she prepared to watch and help K'Nara and Milo through the transformation. This wasn't nice.... no, no - not nice at all.
Ingrge Monday June 24th, 2002 9:37:24 PM
Taking K'nara's weapons as she sheds them, Ingrge passes them out to the others keeping hold of only Lucia. "K'nara, we will hold these for temporary safe keeping and they will be returned.
As Milo impusively pops down his grub Ingrge shakes his head and mutters "Waard's Teeth! Does nobody listen!" and then watches as Milo to begins going thru the process that K'nara just started.
DM kent d100=1 d20+9=27 Monday June 24th, 2002 9:56:49 PM
Milo pops the grub into his mouth and swallows. Two things happen: First as the grub passes in to his throat, he feels it extend its legs and sink its claws into the lining of his thoat and come to a stop. Almost at the same time Milo feels/tastes some thing really acrid and bitter coat the base of his tongue and throat as it oozes downward. Bare moments later Milo, no longer has any feeling on his tongue and in his throat and he feels the numbness spread along his esophogus. And then Milo realizes that he can no longer breathe very welland is starting to choke. As the numbness spreads he feels the grub start inching its way down his throat one claw at a time.
K'nara having felt the grub inch its way down to upper chest feels a momentary burning sensation as if some acid had been poured under her skin and then she again feels the numbing effects begin to effect her upper chest. Those who look close enough notic that K'nara is looking a bit grey and ashy in her lower face and throat.
As Figment gets the two to sit down, the rest gather and distribute Milo's weapons and start to get settled.
Ingrge wanders over to the tree and facing Figment, If what I recall of my readings is correct, the effets will move fairly slowly covering each section of the body in a fairly set pattern and the final stages won't set in for another 4-5 hours at that point They will not be abe to continue to travel, but until that point continuing should not be a problem, but I will defer to the party's judgement.
Figment d20+8=15 d20+19=34 Monday June 24th, 2002 10:17:02 PM
The mage shrugs. "I wonder how far down this road we must travel? An hour, a day, a week, more? I don't know what we should do at this point. Is there some limit to the amount of time we can stay this way before insanity breaks in? My only thought at this point is to minimize the party's risk. We're here, we're fresh, and all of us can probably take K'Nara and Milo if need be. I don't know if we have that guarantee after 5 hours of travel. What do you think we should do?". After consulting with Ingrge the mage struggles to divine anything from his memory that might give him more insight (Int 15, Arcana 34).
Milo Monday June 24th, 2002 11:58:17 PM
With every ounce of concentration that he can muster, Milo lays himself down on the ground and closes his eyes, praying fervently to Alemi for aid and strength.
Lian Tuesday June 25th, 2002 1:39:17 AM
Lian catches Milo's movements out of the corner of one eye. The monk just stares, dumbfounded.
"Milo. By the remaining Three Gods, what ARE you thinking. We need you... needed you sane, a coherant cleric to guide us..." Lian pauses. "Okay then! That is two, whose NEXT?" The monk is annoyed. "I will go next, however, I WILL wait for confirmation from the lead... who is the Talons backup leader once K'nara is out of commission?" He says with concern. Then he gets a horrified look on his face. "INGRGE, you will not be able to... disarm me. Though, I am never really THAT effective in combat." Looking over at Figment, "Did you ever answer my question about the grub?! Is it a natural desease, or is it magical, supernatural or special to the grub?" (OOC: Question is in previous post)
Figment Tuesday June 25th, 2002 11:26:52 AM
The mage looks over to Lian. "Sorry my friend, I'm still thinking about it. Nothing has come to me yet. Seems as if Ingrge will be our guide this time.".
Olana Tuesday June 25th, 2002 11:40:09 AM
In an attempt to distract herself from the horror about to take place, Olana says -
"Why don't we move on as far as we can? We don't need to run or anything, but I reckon the nearer we are to our destination the better."
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 25th, 2002 10:13:10 PM
Seeing Milo also swallow the harbinger of death, Bertram drops to his knees and prays to to the ill-fated Domi for guidance. Surely there was something to be done to ease thier suffering.
K'Nara Wednesday June 26th, 2002 6:55:50 AM
K'Nara simply sat down, then, gesturing for Milo to do the same. This wasn't at all pleasant, but not because of the obvious physical discomfort--because of the obvious emotional distress that the others were going through. Had she realized that the rest of the Talons weren't quite ready to do what had to be done, K'Nara would have stuck to her first instinct to make the trip to the Meadow first and then swallow the bugs, rather than accede to Figment's point about Claudia's spirit advising them to use the bugs sooner rather than later.
The human bladesinger would have cursed then, but the souleater inching down her throat had numbed up even more of it as it went...
Ingrge Wednesday June 26th, 2002 7:39:50 AM
Turning at Lian's comments and questions, Ingrge has a sad smile on his face. Lian my friend, It would indeed be hard to disarm you and not very pleasent, but it could be done. Hopefully we will see that it is a precaution that won't be necessary with any of us, when our turn comes. As for the grub and what is happening, it is not a disease per se thought it progresses like one. The grubs were long ago magically altered so that now they are like this naturally. Their power is now naturally part of what they are.
Pausing long enough to walk over to stand in front of K'nara, Ingrge looks down at their leader. "I know that you can't talk right now, but I need you to answer a question by blinking your eyes. First off, what is happening to you is going to progress slowly over the next 24 hours until you can no longer move, at some ppoing all of your bodily liquids will exit your body through your skin, your heart will cease to beat and then at the very last the grub will travel to your head where it will take up residence while it completes its job. You do have about 4-5 hours before you will not be able to walk. Do you wany us to stay here for the next 24 hours or do you want to get as far as we can? Blink once for stay, twice for move on.
DM kent Wednesday June 26th, 2002 7:51:52 AM
Ingrge chats with Figment for a while and Figment remembers reading something that mentioned the souleaters, but it was just a mention, they are related to and may have been mutated from both rot grubs, and carrion crawlers.
Olanna is confident that under normal circumstances a party could get to the Tree of Parting from here, on foot, in just under a week.
Bertram Prays to a dead God, Olanna stares at the horror scene infront of her even as she tries to look away, Lian starts to lose control, and the river still calls to you through the trees.
Figment Wednesday June 26th, 2002 1:08:21 PM
The mage shrugs. "I really don't know much about these things. They are realted to other carion eating vermin. That's all I can say. If these two are able, why don't we go ahead and walk. If there was going to be some kind of extreme reaction it would have happened by now.". He helps the others up - if they agree. If they don't he settles in to watch them closely.
Lian Wednesday June 26th, 2002 11:22:24 PM
"I am not sure your right Figment. We still have about 4 and a half hours before things get really interesting for K'nara and Milo." Lian shrugs.
Milo Thursday June 27th, 2002 1:24:52 AM
Focusing himself, Milo's eyes snap open, and the halfling stands, blinking twice and then looking over at K'nara for confirmation. His face is ashen, but apparently his feet work for the time being.
K'Nara Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:10:41 AM Ingrge has the way of it...but then I'd always known he would be the one... K'Nara thought to herself. Looking squarely up into the elf's sombre face, the woman warrior blinked her bright hazel eyes twice.
Travel now, worry about becoming a zombie later.
Olana d20+12=23 Thursday June 27th, 2002 11:59:40 AM
"It's going to take about a week if we walk - or, it might be quicker if we travel by boat, like we did the last time? Let me go and take a quick scout around."
((Wilderness Lore DC 23)) If Olana figures the river is very close by, she will go and have a quick look, and see if there is a boat, see which way the river is flowing etc etc - anything that might speed up their journey.
Brother Bertram Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:27:50 PM
Rising slowly Bertram looks to his friends sadly but with determination in his eyes. "Let us get there as quickly as we can. Let us face this and be done. For good or evil I want it over with.
DM kent d20=20 Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:53:40 PM
As the Talons get up and start moving eastward again, Olanna does her quick walkabout and returns with tidings of the river. The trail you are on parallels the river for a good long way and Olanna relates that the river is flowing eastward at this point. She also relates that the path will probably be the fastest way to travel for now as the terrain along the river and the steeps river banks would make travel there a might awkward.
After several hours of travel, Milo and K'nara, while not uncomfortable, are beginning to feel Like they are missing parts of their bodies. The woodland breeze that is careesing their bodies cant be felt from their noses to their waists and even parts of their arms are without feeling too. About every half an hour or so they feel the grub, which seems to be growing, move to a new part of the body and squirt its numbing acid, and the process begin anew.
After another hour or so they can no longer feel their arms or hands and their thighs are starting to numb up. In the middle of the fourth hour Milo and K'nara fall flat on their faces in the middle of the path, no longer able to move. It is about two hours to dusk.
Olanna goes for a quick scouting expedition and about 30 minutes ahead finds the path ends at the river. There is a small natural jetty and a rough way station shelter of to one side. The wood pile is stocked and the door is shut. It appears as if noone is around or has used the station in several weeks.
Lian Thursday June 27th, 2002 8:46:13 PM
Stopping on the trail and hovering over K'nara and Milo, the elf looks up at Figment and grins, almost arrogantly. "Told you."
The elf turns Milo over onto his back so he's looking straight into the clouds, he crosses the halflings arms on his chest. "Boy, I am SO looking forward to this!" He says in a condescending tone. "Friend Milo, are you with us?" Looking into the eyes of his friend.
"Olana, can we make a travois of sorts?" Looking at Ingrge for encouragement. "Is that alright? Or should we just make camp and all take our 'medicine', then wait for morning."
Olana d20+12=29 d20+10=24 d20+10=16 d20+12=14 Thursday June 27th, 2002 9:33:08 PM
Once again, the elf looks at the river in order to determine if it will speed up their journey or not in terms of direction of flow, and the general direction of the river. ((Wilderness Lore DC29)) Approaching the shelter, and seeing no one around, she knocks, waits for about 30 seconds, then rapidly uses her 'other' skills in an attempt to open the door and see if there's a boat.
((Search DC 24, Disable Device DC 16, Open lock DC 14 ))
Brother Bertram d20+2=22 Thursday June 27th, 2002 10:03:38 PM
Bertam sighs down at thier friends sadly. "I mean no abuse of your dignity, Friend Milo. I will bear you to our campsite, Domi willing." Saying this, Bertram shoulders Milo, staggering under the weight. Without another word he starts forward looking for a site to camp.
Milo Friday June 28th, 2002 12:44:45 AM
Saddened by this cruel turn of events, Milo's eyes would begin to tear up, if they worked. It wouldn't matter anyway, cause even if they do, he couldn't feel it.
K'Nara Friday June 28th, 2002 6:40:48 AM
K'Nara had a lot of time to think about her life and the things that had happened so far.
Alemi, I don't pray to gods too often because they're always busy with things too big for a grunt like me to see, the female fighter mentally prayed, But I would ask you to kindly look after Milo while we're undergoing this...process. Hells, I'd like you to kindly look after everyone in the party--we're all doing this for your (and The Wold's) ultimate benefit. I know we're all going to do our best to get what needs to be done...done. If that isn't good enough, however...well, it was fun while it lasted...
Ingrge d20+4=19 Friday June 28th, 2002 8:40:01 AM
Bending down and looking at K'nara, Ingrge mouths a few words. "Sorry about this." And then with a little help from Lian in getting her up uncerimoniously throws K'nara over his shoulder and starts walking following Bertram and Milo down the trail.
Figment Friday June 28th, 2002 11:21:57 AM
The mage follows the others to the campsite to wait for the process to finish. "I am glad you were right Lian. I see we agree on the time we have before us. I'm not looking forward to this either.". He keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.
DM kent Friday June 28th, 2002 1:53:52 PM
Olanna reports back about her findings, the shelter was empty and dusty the river looks like it could speed you along your way really well, if you only had a boat.
The Talons make it to the jetty area and Ingrge basically collapses, having carried K'nara for the best part of two miles. Catching his breath he looks at K'nara's eyes and says, "If we are going to make a habit of this, You need to go on a diet." Getting the two of them comfortable seems to be the priority right now.
Milo and K'nara have no feeling in anything below their noses and those of you who are watching things progress notice that their skin seems to be tightening up over their bones and muscles. Occasionally you see what you assume is the grub, though it has nearly tripled in size, moving around under the skin, slowly making its way toward their heads. Both K'nara and Milo seem to radiating a lot of heat from their bodies and are taking on a mottled burnt ash color to their skin tone.
Camp gets set up eventually and a fire is lit in the shelter's pit, a watch is set and Milo and K'nara feel the grub move its way into their heads.
Lian Friday June 28th, 2002 8:28:32 PM
After assisting Ingrge and anyone else who needs it, Lian rests and meditates. Not finishing his meditation, Lian stands up and moves to the fire. Glancing at Milo, he watches the grub move back up his throat and work its way into his brain. "Eeeeewww! No, no, I am definately not going that way. By all that is natural, not that way!" The monk turns ashen by just looking at the bodies of his friends.
Brother Bertram Friday June 28th, 2002 11:14:33 PM
Bertram looks to his Lian with sadness in his eyes. "Friend Lian if you feel this is not the road for you, I cannot hold it against you. The thought scares me horribly as well. But I would ask a boon of you if you are willing. Please stay with us and look over us until we have all undergone this, ...change. No matter what happens my friend, there is no shame in avoiding this." Bertram walks over and reaches up, squeezing his comrade's shoulder. I am proud to have stood along such a warrior as yourself!"
Milo Saturday June 29th, 2002 4:02:26 AM
Laying there realizing that this is it... death is imminent, Milo comes to understand that ultimately, there is no pain... its all in his head. Inwardly, he smiles.
Figment Saturday June 29th, 2002 9:48:38 AM
"I'd say once this business with Milo and K'Nara is over that we build a large raft. There is plently of timber for that.". The mage simply stands and watches two of his friends waste away in horror, knowing he too will likely share the same experience soon enough.
Olana d20+10=18 Sunday June 30th, 2002 9:49:15 PM
For a while Olana sits beside Milo, keeping her eye on him, watching the progression of the worm and it's effects. Her skin is crawling as much as the halflings with the worm beneath it.
As Figment suggests a raft, she readily agrees, and distracts herself trying to figure out the best wood, how long it will take etc etc. ((Knowledge nature DC 18 on best available timber))
K'Nara Monday July 1st, 2002 6:30:59 AM I'm going to miss the taste of Mama's cinnamon rolls...
Figment Monday July 1st, 2002 10:32:35 AM
The mage uses his architecture and engineering skills to determine the best wood and the proper dimensions of the raft. He leave the manuel labor to those better suited for it.
DM Kent Monday July 1st, 2002 3:16:21 PM
Olanna and Figment figure that they have the perfect wood for a raft as well as the knowledge materials and abilities to make quite a sturdy one at that. Darknes is falling and thoughts of rest are ever on their minds as they will need it for their raft building.
The evening passes extremely slowly for those who await further changes with the two guinea pigs. There are no further visible signs of progression from the grub and things seem to have come to a halt as the grubs made their way into Milo's and K'nara's heads. For Milo and K'nara thought the change is readily apparent as the grub makes its say into their heads they start reviewing scenes from their past, almost as if the grubs want to find out about them. This goes on for about 5 hours and then with silent screams they both are siezed by massive siezures and start thrashing around (picutre a Grand Mal Siezure). Green foam starts bubbling from their mouths and from all over their bodies blood starts oozing from out of their pores. This continues for almost an hour and then the blood turns to clearer liquids and then ceases all together. As soon as it is obvious that all the bodily liquids have been expelled the siezures stop and the two lay quietly on the floor of the shed. (It is now two in the morning)
The rest of the night passes without incident and in the early parts of predawn the quiet calm of the forest is shattered by loud voices, and of all things they are raised in song.
As someone sticks their head out to see whats up they will see a large raftlike boat pulling alongside the jetty. It is obviously well taken care of and of all things has the likeness of a dragon forward on its bow.
Figment Monday July 1st, 2002 5:03:54 PM
The mage observes K'Nara and Milo. He makes sure they are still 'alive' after their done bleeding out. When the sinign is heard the mage exits the building and stands away preparing to cast.
Lian Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 1:42:47 AM
Lian looks at Bertram with kind eyes. "At the monastery, we were trained that life is a chain of challenges. The first link in the chain is our birth, but that link is no more important than the next, however, there is occasionally a flawed link that weakens the entire chain. However, if that link is tempered from purest ore and with the hardest hammer, upon the coldest anvil, cast from the hottest forge, that link will be just like all the others, unbreakable. I have been tempered. I am a link in the Talons chain, I will not break." The elf looks at his dwarven friend, then smiles. "The best challenge over body and mind, is death." He pauses. "Undeath... whatever." He looks slightly amused by his next statement. "Just think, for the AVERAGE persons' death would be the final link in their chain. In my case, it just a new beginning. "
When the seizures start, Lian leaves the scene, uncomfortable with the situation. In fact, he'll set up his bed roll outside the door of the tent (shelter) to meditate, then moves back in after the sounds of oozing and bubbling subside.
In the early morning hours, hearing the sounds of joyous song coming from the jetty, Lian steps outside awaiting what is to come. Observing the dragon on the bow, Lian pokes his head back inside the shelter and says; "Ingrge, I think the Gold Dragons are here, but I am not sure. Come out here. Bertram, are you awake my friend?! Figment, come over here, stay with your friends."
Olana d20+4=17 Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 2:18:47 AM
With shaking hands, Olana attempts to help clean up her two "about to become undead" friends with the help of river water and her scarf. This was just awful.
As the boat arrives, she tries to remember if it was the one they all traveled up the river with, all that time ago. (Wisdom check DC 17)
K'Nara Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 6:21:48 AM ...boy, oh boy, this HURTS..!
Milo Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 10:04:26 AM
'...blood.. there goes my blood... oh well, didn't need that anyways... I think. I wonder how Olana would react if I jumped up and gave her a big undead smooch... heh heh heh heh.... ouch!'
The Solution [CDM Jerry] Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 12:02:15 PM
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..."
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 4:26:21 PM
Bertram roused himself from his slumber hearing the words in his mind. He takes heart in the words and tries to prepare himself for the 'death' that now faces him.
Figment Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 6:35:51 PM
The mage listens to the Dragonstone but does not deviate from his preparations as he watches the new arrivals. At least in his mind he knows that these grub things are the right thing to do.
Lian Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 2:41:45 AM
"We have the grubs. Let us eat the things now and call it done. I am tired of waiting."
Lian askes Ingrge, "May I eat the grub or is it to soon?"
DM kent Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 4:05:12 PM
As Figment checks for signs of life he finds that there are none. K'nara and Milo are as cold and grey as any several year old corpse. The people on the boat seem to be harmless. It appears that there are several children on board with their families.
Olanna is pretty sure that the ship is symbiote ship Jerimia that they travelled upon what seems like years and years ago. It sees that there are about 10 travelers on board an that the boat I pulling in for a quick break.
All but Milo and K'nara receive the Gold Dragon's message and have moxed feelings about what they hear.
Ingrge responds to Lian with a shake of his head. I think that we should perhaps wait a bit we still have a long way to travel.
K'nara and Milo, are seemingly dead.
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 7:41:11 PM
Bertram snorts, then chuckles hearing Lian's words. "Friend Lian I didn't mean we had to be hasty to eat the dreaded things. While I think I am reconciled to this fate I am surely in no hurry for it."
Olana Thursday July 4th, 2002 2:15:23 AM
"Wait Figment," exclaims the elf. "It's the symbiote - I'm sure of it. A friend. I'm sure the boat will take us where we want to go."
After a quick glance at the inanimate Milo who, to Olana seems to have the hint of a smile on his face, she approaches the boat and addresses the dragons head.
"Hello," she says with a bow. "I am Olana. Do you remember me? We have sailed together in times past. I'm here with my friends once more, only two of them have died unfortunately. We need safe passage up to the Tree of Parting. May we travel with you?"
She's not quite sure what else to say, not knowing whether the boat has heard Valdor's message or not. She certainly didn't want to lie to it. But there's no way she's going to mention undead at this point, just in case it freaks out the other passengers.
Lian Thursday July 4th, 2002 2:40:55 AM
"I will wait." Looking at Milo, Lian smirks at his stillness. Even in sleep, he's never so still. This is the quietest he's been, ever.
"Cover our Friends bodies. Hide them."
Lian begins thinking of friends and family, and the monastery. Wondering how they are fairing in their lonely little corner of the Wold.
A Visitation [CDM Jerry] Thursday July 4th, 2002 11:04:10 AM
Even though the sky is clear, you are startled by lightning striking the boat from some unknown source and thunder follows.
Immediately as the smell of ozone fills the air and your ears try to recover, the rest of the pasengers and sailors collapse to the ground unconscious.
A few seconds later, two figures unceremoniously appear. One is dressed in black and looks regal and powerful. The other is of devilish ancestry and looks to be an imp. The imp stands erect and calm like his master.
"Talons, I am Gargul and I need your help."
Lian Thursday July 4th, 2002 6:17:19 PM
Feeling like the Wold is crashing in around him already, NOW comes the God Gargul, for us the Talons!?
'Wonderful.' Thinks the monk. 'What else will happen? I suppose we will all just sprout wings and breathe fire soon too! A God, one of three remaining, comes and asks us??! Does he not have anything better to do than to pester mortals!!?
Smiling happily. "How may we assist you Gargul?"
Figment Thursday July 4th, 2002 9:37:03 PM
The mage looks at the man and tries to assess the possibility that he is telling the truth. If not he asks. "Why would one such as you need our help? We are mere gnats in your presence if you are truly Gargul. I beg you forgive my skepticism, I have never been approached by a god!". And if he can see it is who he says he is, them mage declairs "What may we do for one of the only dieties left to the Wold?".
Olana Friday July 5th, 2002 1:29:36 AM
Olana's jaw drops, her reaction one of utter astonishment. She is hardly able to believe her eyes.
After giving a formal bow, she says -
"We are helping, honestly we are. Two of us have died already and the rest of us are -"
She stops mid sentence, knowing she's sounding jittery and on edge. Instead her eyes fall on the strange devil creature. Now what?
K'Nara Friday July 5th, 2002 6:36:12 AM
Valdor Dragonstone's message actually was received by K'Nara, it was just that it underscored about the only thing she could feel emotionally at the moment: The Wold still needed her and the Talons, and she would have to answer that call.
Lightning striking nearby and the voice of Gargul did manage to permeate the enui that enveloped the ex-human bladesinger. She sat up, then stood on her feet and turned to face the God of Death.
"Greetings, Judge of the Hereafter," K'Nara said in a hollow voice, bowing low and as gracefully as her emaciated body allowed, "I am K'Nara Illutu...leader of the Emerald Talons...and we are at your service. Tell us what you need to have done and we will do it."
Lian d20=12 Friday July 5th, 2002 7:22:19 AM
Lian waits until all of his friends have their attention on the God of Death, then he pulls out a vial, fully convinced this God was here for them. Convinced that their waiting has upset him. He is convinced, now, that the divine truly exists. He palms the grub momentarily and sits in a meditative position, then throwing his head back, the monk swallows the grub. The elf begins meditating, concentrating (Concentration of 12) on the feeling of awe he has in the presence of a God.
Ingrge Friday July 5th, 2002 8:07:46 AM
As the lightening striles the boat Ingrge stands there stunned and let's out a muttered curse. "Gargul's arse," Now I guess we will have to make it go by itself. As he tries to recall all the magic wods that the ship used, the odd looking pair strolls up. As Gargul announces whom he is, Ingrge steps back behind the other Talons trying to disappear recalling what he had just uttered. As Gargul speaks Curiosity overcomes his trepidation and he steps back around to the front.
DM kent Friday July 5th, 2002 8:12:03 AM
As K,nara stands and speaks the other Talons are quite startled at her appearence. several moments later Milo too makes his appearence shuffling along in the dirt.
Lian tosses down his grub in a moment of fear inspired divinity and the process starts anew with another Talon.
Figment Friday July 5th, 2002 8:50:48 AM
The mage waits until after the others have swallowed their grubs - but he does it once Gargul has spoken.
Favor [CDM Jerry] Friday July 5th, 2002 9:03:10 AM
"That's an interesting curse Ingrge." Gargul grins. "I haven't heard that one before."
He turns back to the others.
"I too have my plans for this upcoming showdown and I will be there. Part of my plans involve this imp. I have placed certain things within him. I need you to guard him, protect him and bring him with you to the Endgame as Alemi is calling it.
"Keep him hidden as much as possible. Marteaus' spies are everywhere trying to discover what you're trying to do. Be paranoid. Keep him safe. Bring him with you. He may be the key that bring us all through this.
"Alemi and I cannot do this alone. We're gonna need your help: for this and other things. All will be played out in it's time and we can but hope and trust each other.
"The Noble Races have proven themselves true in this matter as well as heroic. Remain true to the end and we may yet prevail against the Punisher."
"His name is Gimp. He will obey you in all things. Right Gimp?"
"Oh yeah Master! This will be fun! Wheeee!"
His voice is that of a kid and grates upon the hearing.
Gargul puts his hands on K'nara and Milo and then Lian. His touch is ice cold and full of meaning, deep as a bottomless chasm.
"Be brave. Domi would want that of....
Us."
He turns away from you and doesn't just disappear, but somehow is quickly gone into the shadows.
Echoing thunder far away denotes his location in the distance. Shortly the others on the boat begin to awaken unharmed.
Milo Friday July 5th, 2002 12:46:31 PM
Milo stands there as Gargul disappears, and looks dispassionately after the god of the dead, "If mom could only see me now..." Milo's face quirks up, but where it used to look quirky and funny, it now appears wry and cynical. Looking around at his friends in life and death, "Can I have my stuff back now? Something tells me I'm going to need it."
Bertram (sub Jay) Saturday July 6th, 2002 4:51:21 AM
With the God of the Dead before him, Bertram prays silently to and for his fallen Domi. He startles at the thunder then relaxes after Gargul is gone.
"That will certainly go be a memory I'll never forget!" He exclaims, turning to Lian. "What did you think of tha.....? Drat!" He sees the final swallowing action in the monks throat and realizes what has occurred. The cleric walks to his friend whose throat has begun to pale. "I understand your actions lad. It's hard to swallow..... casting sight upon a divine being. Belief is strong. Faith is stronger." He smile at the elf and lays him back. "Be comfortable friend. Rest now."
Bertram drags out his vial and takes a look at Ingrge, then nods. It's clear the dwarf is about to begin the transformation himself. "Now that K'nara and Milo are awake, they'll be able to watch us." He knocks back the grub and swallows, laying down, he says one last thing before closing his eyes. "For Domi." He closes his eyes.
Lian Saturday July 6th, 2002 4:56:08 AM
"I can'th blweave I thaw a Gawd!!" His throat and tongue go numb. The monks bites his lip while he was talking but he can't feel it. It begins to bleed, momentarily.
Ingrge Saturday July 6th, 2002 10:02:27 AM
With all his friends dropping grubs down their throats like some kind of bird. Ingrge walks over to Gimp. "Hey Gimp! see that pretty little elf lass over there? (pointing at Olanna) You are to saty with her unless K'nara (pointing out the bladesinger) or I tell you otherwise, OK."
"Figment, Olanna, herd all these guys to the boat. I am going to see if I can procure some transportation." Walikng down to the jetty, Ingrge strolls up to the boat and calls out. "Jerimia, permission to come aboard?"
DM Kent Saturday July 6th, 2002 10:12:11 AM
With Lian and Bert starting the process of Mumbiism, and Milo and K'nara shambling along Figment and Olanna head them down toward the water's edge. Milo and K'nara regain their equipment and Bert's and Lian's are removed.
Ingrge gets to the boat and calls out to it. The smallish man/captain looks down at Ingrge and gives him permission to board. After several moments of animated conversation, Ingrge leaves the boat and comes back to the Talons.
"OK everyone, Jerimia was more than happy to give us transport, until I mentioned our, ummm, different companions here. So after I reminded him how we saved him and his Simbyote's lives, he agreed to give us transport if we will stay near the stern of the ship and put up a sailcloth partition to keep us from the other passengers. I figure that if we are on board we can all take our medicine, as it were and be ready by the time we get to the Tree. Any thoughts, questions, or concerns?"
Olana Monday July 8th, 2002 12:28:46 AM
Olana is doing all she can not to be creeped out by the appearance of the re-animated Milo and K'Nara. At least the disappearance of Gargul brings a sigh of relief, because she has quite enough to comprehend as it is, thank you very much. It is enough to drive an elf completely mad, and she is finding it tough to take all this in her stride.
A little dazed, she turns to the imp creature. "Hello, Gimp," she says, offering a warm smile. "Would you like to wear my cloak? It has a big hood and might help keep you hidden."
As they board the boat, and Ingrge asks if there are any concerns, she shoots him a look but says - "Someone should keep their eye on Gimp while I change into a monst - into something else."
She attempts to explain to the imp what is about to happen, and then asks Milo if he'll look after her precious bow. If Milo looks into her eyes, he will see thinly disguised terror in there somewhere near the surface. Nevertheless, she takes out her container, pops the top and swallows the grub. After that, she settles down crosslegged, closes her eyes and starts to breathe deeply and slowly.
Milo Monday July 8th, 2002 1:09:51 AM
Milo takes Olana's bow, looks directly into her eyes and is saddened by her fear. Looking into Milo's eyes, it is clear that while they seem somewhat glazed on the surface, a fire burns deep within. The fire of the love that only Alemi can give to his free-willed devotee. "Do not fear Olana, not even this undead state can hide the true beauty that lies deep within you." Milo's voice rings hollow.
K'Nara d20+8=17 Monday July 8th, 2002 7:45:47 AM
Everything felt so...remote. And negative. Hmmm...K'Nara knew that she'd hate to have to stay this way, and--momentarily--felt rage boil up at the unfairness of it all!
How DARE they take exception to her, when she willingly sacrificed herself for the good of The Wold! How DARE they insist on her segregating herself from them--as though she were diseased or something! Didn't they realize what was at stake? What the Emerald Talons were trying to accomplish for them, the ungrateful, whiny, living wretches that they were???
For a moment, K'Nara's undead eyes blazed with an unholy anger...but then the rage faded away. (OOC: made a voluntary Willpower check for her to banish her sudden rage.) No...while the living were mistaken in their perceptions, the purpose of her becoming undead hadn't changed--K'Nara and the other must journey to the lands of the dead that they may battle Marteaus and--hopefully--send the god-wannabe packing.
"It is...the least we can do, then, Ingrge." K'Nara agreed to the boat captain's terms. "I know that my and Milo's...present state is disturbing to the unenlightened, and we MUST get to the Meadow with all haste." The unliving bladesinger turned and beckoned to Gimp.
"Attend me, if you will." she said to the imp. "Olana will soon be...preoccupied."
Figment Monday July 8th, 2002 9:42:21 AM
Nodding at the wisdom behind being segregated fromthe general populace onboard ship, Figment starts setting up the barricade and arranging places for the upcoming changers.
Ok, Let's see I think Milo, K'nara Ingrge and I should watch while Olanna, Fian, and Bertram go through their change and then I guess Ingrge and I will finish off the groups transformation. That way we will be able to help protect the boat if necessary.
DM Kent d20+9=20 d20+9=27 d20+9=26 d20+9=19 d20+9=21 d20+9=22 d20+9=16 d20+9=23 Monday July 8th, 2002 10:13:41 AM
As the Talons get settled in Olanna feels the burning squirt and numbness signifying the beginning ofher ordeal.
Bert and Fian, seat themselves against the side of the boat and settle in for their continuing change.
Milo and K'nara each fight their own tumultuous emotions and eventually settle down to standing and watching.
Gimp, swimming in Olanna's cloak until moments later it shrinks to a perfect fit, looks over at K'nara when she calls him over and flits over to her. Looking into her eyes, he gets a mischevious gleem in his eyes and in a voice shrill voice calls out, "Mummy! I've missed you soooo much!" And then buries himself in her bust.
Moments later the boat leaves shore and starts moving.
Two days later ALL the Talons are Mumbies and they have settled into a set routine. There are very few smiles in the group, little conversation and even less laughter as they practice and go about their daily rituals. On the morning of the third day the boat seems to be slowing down and moments later Jerimia appears in front of you from out of nowhere.
Umm friends, It appears that someone has stretched a series of cables across the river up ahead. I think we might have some company in a few minutes.
Just as he finishes speaking the unmistakable sound of bowfire is heard followed by the sound of arrows and bolts hitting wood and the sounds of screams as several strike flesh at the front of the boat.
K'Nara Monday July 8th, 2002 7:49:41 PM
The imp floundered in the area of K'Nara's chest, and the late bladesinger eyed the silly creature with faint distaste (odd--such an insulting maneuver would once have rated an automatic skewering via Lucia...but that was when K'Nara was alive...) before she reached up, grabbed Gimp by the tail and hauled the little winged menace up to dangle a few inches from her sunken-eyed face.
"Listen, Gimp," she told him in a hollow voice, "I promised that no harm would come to you--and it won't...but if you keep pulling stunts like this, I can also promise you that no comforts will come to you, either."
Still, the event didn't raise the ire it normally would have.
Later--when Jerimia appeared to give the Talons the bad news, K'Nara's instincts as a fighter immediately kicked in:
"Get all the other passengers under some kind of cover if you can, Captain!" K'Nara barked, immediately pulling out her short bow and an arrow. "Talons--fighters scope out and target the attackers...Figment, see if you can figure out what it will take to cut or disable those cables..! Olana--keep an eye on Gimp--NOTHING must happen to him..!" So saying, the leader of the Emerald Talons moved with determined (if slower than usual) steps to where the action was, her undead eyes seeking the enemy attacking the boat.
Olana Monday July 8th, 2002 9:46:18 PM
It was horrible. Every single part of it was horrible, and on awakening she had to spend a long time quelling feelings of rage. There was something dark inside, giving her a kind of power she didn't have before. It was hard to deal with, but she got on with it and kept her mouth shut, perfectly aware that her friends would feel the same or at least something like it.
The call to action from their leader found her putting her bow together in a very deliberate manner. "Stay low, Gimp!" she called in a deep voice, " grab my leg and hang on for dear li - well just hang on as tight as you can."
She takes position toward the rear of the boat, facing outward and forward so the creature is sheltered from oncoming fire. If it becomes clear he is not sheltered, then she will switch position. But if there's a chance he's sheltered and she can get off a few arrows - she will do so.
Milo d20+30=40 d20+25=45 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 1:37:31 AM
Looking over at K'nara, "I'll take care of the cables." Milo's grin is definitely more feral than funny as the halfling pulls his elven cloak tight and crouches low in the boat, all the while moving forward at maximum speed, while drawing his mystic short sword. (OOC: Made hide and move silently checks at -5 to normal bonus for moving regular speed. Made DCs 40 and 45 respectively.)
Figment 3d4(3+4+3)+3=13 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:34:59 PM
Noting that Milo said he has the cables under control, Figment parts the curtain and stepping to the port side of the boat looks and without pause sends several fiery bolts ripping toward several figures on shore. He remains passively detached as the missiles strike their targets.
Lian d20+7=18 d6+2=8 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:38:35 PM
Lian steps to the starboard side with his bow in hand and with a very steady draw releases his arrow toward his chosen target. He reaches back for another arrow as his first target is struck. (AC 18, 8 damage)
Ingrge 6d4(4+3+4+3+3+4)+6=27 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:43:02 PM
Shuffling forward Ingrge stepps along side his fellow mage and pointing a wand sends 6 energy bolts spitting towards another figure on the shore.
Bertram Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:44:46 PM
Bertram moves forward to aid Jerimia move the other passengers to safety forgetting what he has become.
Bertram Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:45:23 PM
Bertram moves forward to aid Jerimia move the other passengers to safety forgetting what he has become.
DM Kent d20+9=21 d20+9=17 d20+9=24 d20+9=17 d20+9=27 d20+9=29 d6+3=4 d6+3=4 d6+3=4 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:55:13 PM
Ingrge, Figment and Lian all send some sort of missile into the attackers and all are rewarded with watching their opponents struck.
Milo gets to the fore of the boat and see that there are two lines crossing the river above the water and possibly one below the waterline.
Jerimia and Bertram move forward to help the passengers and find that four of them were killed outright in the first assault. As Bertram approaches the passengers take one look at him and start screaming. One girl jumps overboard to escape him and starts swimming toward shore.
Six more arrows fly toward the boat striking three more passengers, Bertram(4), Olanna(4), and Ingrge(4)
Milo d20+14=32 d20+14=33 d20+9=20 d6+2=8 d6+2=5 d6+2=7 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 11:39:50 PM
As the boat approaches the lines strung across the river, Milo's blade is a shimmer in the air as the halfling swings at the pair of lines running up top, and then plunges his blade into the water to slice the one below as well. (OOC: Milo hits AC 32 and 33 up top for 8 and 5 hps respectively, and AC 20 down below for 7 hps)
Lian d20+12=15 d20+7=25 d6=3 d6=2 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 12:37:10 AM
OOC: I'm Mailing from a friends computer, hopefully my service will be working this time tomorrow! Darn cable was broken or something.
Mumbie Lian stays on the starboard and fires his shortbow twice more at a single target. Not saying a thing, he only moans and shuffles about.
Hitting AC's 15 and 25, for 3 and 2 respectively.
Bertram (sub Jay) Wednesday July 10th, 2002 12:44:47 AM
Bertram stays at the front with Jeremia. He watches the girl go over the side, his initial thought is the go after her, in a moment his thoughts drifted from her, drifting back into his undead coma. He thinks to himself, 'It's quite sad these poor folk are afraid of me, it's sad.'
K'Nara d20=19 d20=15 d6=3 d6=3 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 11:48:14 AM
(OOC: I, too, am away from the computer that has my Undead CS on it, but I DO know that K'Nara gets two arrow attacks, and has at least a +4 to hit due to her Dexterity, so she's hit at least AC23 and AC19 respectively, for at least 3hp damage each.)
K'Nara's undead eyes focus on the likeliest target for her to aim her arrows at and she lets two missiles fly...
Olana d20+10=27 d20+10=24 d6+1=7 d6+1=2 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 2:21:23 PM
Olana fires off two arrows at the attackers, all the while telling the imp to grip close and keep out of firing range.
She does not move too far, staying in a place that will protect Gimp the most.
DM Kent Wednesday July 10th, 2002 6:25:39 PM
seeing that they are overmatched the remaining outlaws disappear into the woods leaving behind at least 6 of their fellows to serve as fertilizer for the forest.
Milo manages to cut through the ropes without much difficulty and the boat is soon on its way.
The next two days pass uneventfully and with everybody healed and at full strength, the jetty closest to the Tree of Parting is soon on your right side. Jerimia pulls alongside and wishing you all well, sends you on your way. The early afternoon is spent making your way to your destination and about two hours before sunset you arrive.
Even though many of you have been here before it is an unbelievable sight. There rising out of apparent nothing is the largest tree any of you has ever seen. The trunk appears to be somewhere around fifty feet in diameter and the the tree itself rises several hundred feet into the air and has a spread of over a quarter of a mile. Beneath the tree can be seen an assortment of small buildings, most of which seem to be stables, vehicle storage and warehouses. Other than the size, what make this tree so impressive is that there seem to be many small dwellings along the main branches. all of which are lit in such a way to make the entire tree to have a golden glow. At the point where the main branches leave the trunk there is a large building that appears to have grown right out of the trunk itself. Leading up to this building and to the other main areas of the tree is a spiral staircase that winds around the trunk. There are also several rope ladders and elevators that can be used to gain egress to the Tree. It is to the large central building where most of the traffic seems to be going. The sign above the door simply says Tree of Parting - Inn and Tavern.
( OOC. This board is now Closed. Please begin posting in the Catacombs. http://www.woldiangames.com/games/index.html?game=catacombs
DM kent Monday July 22nd, 2002 11:28:35 AM
(OOC hey guys welcome back to the Wold. Over the next few days i would like to see some in character chat and some ooc discussions about where we want to go with this game next. The sooner we come to concensus the sooner we can restart game playing.)
BTW I am currently without a modem so my access will be limited for a bit as I try to find one that will work and while I use my neighbor's computer.
DM Jerry Monday July 22nd, 2002 12:18:50 PM
I'll be helping Kent out here until he's back up to speed. He may post some when he can, I'll help as well as I can until his return.
We are open!!!!!!!!!
Feel free to post as often as you want this week.
We need to do several things:
1st: read the new material and talk about it. If you want to take a new PrC, let me and Kent know.
2nd: Kent will need character sheets sent in and updated as per my email of earlier this morning. Plus many of you have xp and stuff to add. The game does not start until all sheets are in and approved. so do it early and allow a few days for corrections. Send them to both Kent and I. I'll try to help him some this week if I can.
3rd: We need your ideas as to what to do next. So post your ideas. I've been selfish and forced modules upon you for the last year. Now you can be selfish and say you want to do practically anything you're interested in.
Treasure Hunt? Kill the monster? Group vacation?
Anything!
We need to be settled on the module idea by Wed. so that Kent can get it written and approved by me for a Monday start.
Questions? Rants? Discussion? Proposals? Declarations of Love and Honor?
hehe. Post them all!
Town Crier (MDM Jan) Monday July 22nd, 2002 1:41:51 PM
Drifting in on the mists of the New Wold up ahead, the urgent bell of the Town Crier is heard pealing in the streets. Lundy the Boomer brings news.
"Hear ye, hear ye!
A frantic search has begun for the Floating City - which is currently nowhere to be found! Did the City and its inhabitants drown beneath the lake? Was it destroyed in the cataclysm? Did the mysterious Teucri rescue their creation and take it with them? No one knows! So far, there have been no survivors from the lake, and dives are taking place in an attempt to establish if the Big Float should now be renamed the Big Sink!
Reports from far and wide indicate widespread destruction and damage to buildings and structures all over the Wold! Miraculously - most people appear to have been left unharmed, and are beginning the enormous task of rebuilding what was damaged or lost!
Clerics all over the Wold are proclaiming the existance of new Gods! These Gods have been named the Gods of Testing! They are- Marteaus, the God of Disease Ga'al, the God of Domination Caeroldra, the Goddess of Lust and Passion Jancassis, the God of Revenge Warrd, the God of Luck, and Chance Gargul, the God of Life, Death, and Souls!
Temples and other places of worship are changing hands, being rebuilt, or being created to worship these new deities! It appears that two major pantheons how exist - the Gods of Testing, alongside that of Alemi, Domi, Flower, Pantheon, and Ffloy - the already established Gods of the Wold. Some say the God Gargul either belongs to both, or that he transcends them all! Everything appears to be in a state of flux! There have been reports of new Sects being formed, and of strange abilities manifesting amongst the populace! Are these abilities a gift from the Gods? An appeasement for the Godwar, as some say? Or are they a curse, and something to be feared?
In Plateau City, some members of the high council have allegedly gone into hiding! Those who remain have released a statement, proclaiming they were misled, charmed into actions against their own natural will, and remember little of past events. They say they are drawing up an amnesty proposal for certain groups and organisations who are currently banned from the City as outlaws and renegades! Sturtavent will be reinstated, and the council is at a loss as to explain why he was originally removed from office in the first place! A persistant rumour - that he merely had the wrong haircut, is just that - a rumour. In truth no one seems to know!
Elsewhere, news has arrived of a new eastern pass through the treacherous Scab, created by the upheavals and earthquakes of the Godwar! Adventurers are said to be already flocking toward the area, in search of new lands, new riches, enlightenment and knowledge!
Hear ye, gentlefolk! Take note of the bell - for there will be more!
Jay (Lian) Monday July 22nd, 2002 4:23:49 PM
Group vacation sounds great.
It will give us time to relax and say goodbye to friends that are leaving us. And it will allow for us to pick up tag-alongs (new members). :)
Lian Monday July 22nd, 2002 11:10:33 PM
Lian sits there with his legs crossed.
"Well, I believe we should send off our friend Bertram the right way. Let us escort him home. While we are there we can visit my family, they are quite hopitable." The monk grins impishly and raises an eyebrow. "The monks make the best wine."
"Bertram, how does that sound to you? Of course, only with your permission K'nara."
Chris (Milo) Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 12:18:19 AM
The halfling in me screams for a treasure hunt, but my more dutiful clerical nature says that we should be looking for those who took advantage of the chaos of the previous events, and bring them to justice... and then... there is always a treasure hunt... : )
Jay (Lian) Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 1:00:27 AM
"A treasure hunt?! You must be kidding? What does a MONK need with treasure?" >:)
"Let us take this time to visit friends and family we have not seen for awhile. We may find treasure on the way there." :)
Donna Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 7:24:46 AM
Speaking for myself, I know that K'Nara is going to have some issues about the role that Parnoth Oneclaw has in the Emerald Kingdom. Does he still claim to be the ruler of the Kingdom? Now that Marteaus has gotten deity status, I would think that the threat of invasion by Izen would be greatly reduced, and (as such) the Talons (as well as the Tines) would be much more free to see about deposing the big green beastie...or somehow forcing a more equitable brand of government on his rule.
K'Nara would rather kill him, though, seeing as how he's tried to have her killed twice already. ;D
Ingrge Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 12:23:48 PM
Looking around the butterfly meadow, Ingrge sighs and looks truly relaxed for the first time ever. " I'm all for a bit of R&R, but I expect that we will no doubt be thrust into something if that is what we search for. I think perhaps we should spend a few days at the Tree of Parting and then decide where we should go and what we should do. Like K'nara, I want to see what the situation with Parnoth is like right now and perhaps see what we can do about this elven slavery issue."
Turning to Bertram, Ingrge looks deeply into his face as if searching for something. "My Friend, I see that you have decided that your path no longer is to be joined to ours and that truly saddens me. I never thought I would ever call a dwarf a "true friend" and yet that's what you are. I can not speak for the Talons, but know that should you ever need assistance you may call on me."
Jan Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 1:53:47 PM
Establishing whats going on with Parnoth could be interesting. Olana is likely to be in the same frame of mind as Ingrge as far as the elves are concerned. Maybe help the Tines establish a better foothold after the chaos or something.
Jay Tuesday July 23rd, 2002 10:48:50 PM
OOC:I believe our little halfling friend has wealth in mind. ;)
I myself would like to see Parnoth dethroned, just for kicks. We don't even know if he still exsists, at least I don't. Some people may have more insight into him and his activities. If we do find out his where abouts, we should remove him from power, I think. And in the aftermath, Milo can clean up the throne room. ;)
I am not really sure what the Tines ARE, I would like to know more about who and what they are, if anyone would be so kind as to email me info on them.
In character:
The elf is teary eyed as Ingrge makes his statement to their dwarven friend. "Yes. I would indeed love to see you return my dear Friend Bertram. Domi is returned, so it is only right that you follow him and return to your home and kin." The elvish monk gives the dwarf a brief heartfilled hug. Then he snaps himself away and begins his restful Kahta excercises. The elf mutters under his breath something about Domi.
Chris Wednesday July 24th, 2002 10:59:17 PM
[Shocked] Milo always has wealth on his mind... being a halfling, he is completely into his creature comforts... : ) However, Milo is willing to go look into Parnoth's status [hadn't thought of that initially] He isn't really afraid of the big green meanie... as far as Milo is concerned... if he can outwit the dragon, then the dragon isn't that smart [and by default... not very dangerous] Of course... what does Milo know... he is just a simple halfling... [and if you believe that, I know a couple of bridges that I have up for sale.]
DEH Wednesday July 24th, 2002 11:13:56 PM
Greetings all, I'm just now getting back online. I am now in Richmond, VA and I can only access the site at night. I'll be sending in my character sheet hopefully Friday. Tomorrow I travel to Fairfax for the day so I doubt I can do it then.
My hope for the game would be to see what we can do about Parnoth. Perhaps we can get a shot at his treasure. I'm sure Figment wouldn't mind being rich. From there we can do about anything.
Jay Thursday July 25th, 2002 12:51:02 AM
It seems we all have Parnoth or the Tines in mind. Is there anything else we could do besides taking a hit out on a dragon? Lian can't be much help whacking the dragon, he can't hit a regular dude in armor, how can he be expected to damage a dragon. Maybe I can go off to the Catacombs and spend some of the gold that's lingering in my pack and purchase Lian a magical bow. That's a thought. I'm with you all on the Parnoth thing. :)
Jay Thursday July 25th, 2002 5:50:09 PM
Chris, the Taurs are looking to buy some bridges, ours are missing. ;)
Milo (Chris) Thursday July 25th, 2002 9:14:03 PM
Then boy, do I have a deal for you... 5000 gold pieces each... I've got four of them, that is 20,000 gp for the lot... I know, I know, you wanna think and talk it over... but don't take too long, cause I know a number of trolls who would kill... for bridges such as these...
Donna Friday July 26th, 2002 7:11:04 AM
LOL about the bridges! 8)
I am in the midst of taking care of Black Genie Center policy & management, but I'll be trying to get K'Nara over to Kent as soon as I can! (I do believe she's gone up another level, thanks to YOA!)
Jay (Lian) Friday July 26th, 2002 5:57:27 PM
Just 5000gp each, WOW! what a deal!
Yeah, what do you take me for, a halfling? Oops! :0
Jan Saturday July 27th, 2002 12:15:16 AM
LOLOLOLOLOLOL!
You guys......
Donna d10=8 Sunday July 28th, 2002 7:34:35 AM
Rolling for K'Nara's hit points...oooo...an 8--not bad! 8)
Milo (Chris) Tuesday July 30th, 2002 12:13:16 AM
Milo looks shocked, "I would never... halflings are much more intelligent... and the only elf I know that can match that is Olana... um er... and perhaps Ingrge." Milo grins...
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