Into the Darkness (DM Stephen) d100=90 d6=3 d20+2=5 Tuesday September 10th, 2002 12:07:32 AM
The party makes their way into the palace. The huge thick bronze doors can be closed with some effort, but with the help of a few, the doors can be shut and there is plenty of debris that can be used to stop the door. It turns very dark. However there is a dim light up ahead. The light from Redux's Dancing Lights provides adequate illumination for now. The entrance way is cluttered with dirt, leaves, creeping vines, fallen stone, insects, spiders, cobwebs and other debris. Rat droppings, nut shells fragments, and other crunchy sounds echo though the hallways with every step. The dankness of the moist moldy odors fills your nostrils. The massive stone walls retain cold of the previous evening and the air fills chilly.
You all hear the fluttery sounds of winged flight above you. Looking up, everyone can spy a small hole in the ceiling where some birds just exited. You can hear the squeaks of mice or rats... who knows!! (Well maybe Ari or Ashira will, Wilderness Lore check DC 18. to anyone who can.)
After walking about 20 to 30-ft into the palace, everyone comes to a large circular room. You all enter through the south entrance and are facing north. In the circular room there are doors on the north, east and west walls. Beautiful, at one time, pair of stairs leading up to a second floor entrance on the north wall. The stairs ran along and followed the curve of the east and west wall. They both met in the center at the top at the second floor entrance some 30-ft up. However, the both sets of stairs have collapsed halfway up to the second floor. A ledge still exists in front of the second floor doorway. The ceiling of the circular room towers high above the floor. There is no roof. There may have been a stained glass dome covering it at one time. It has fallen in and rainwater has apparently washed it away over several centuries. Little bits of shiny multicolored glass still twinkle on the floor. A shaft of indirect sunlight shines down from above. Looking up you can see clouds and the blue sky.
You are all exhausted from your run. This looks like a good place for a rest. Ashira now has time to perform her spell on the wolf. The wolf is barely conscious. It wimpers and whines at his sore wounds. Ashira and Akerin tend to the wolf's wounds. Ashira casts Animal Friendship on the wolf. (The wolf fails his save, 5) When offered a hand-full of water, the wolf accepts and starts to lick it from her hand. A good sign of trust. However, the wolf is not fully healed and is still in a great deal of pain.
(Party's initiative)
Ashira d8+1=7 Tuesday September 10th, 2002 4:15:26 PM
Ashira picks up the wolf, moves it well away from the others (just in case her new friend doesn't like the rest of the family), and sits down s she tends to the wolf. She looks over at Akerin. "This wolf is now my friend, and as such, is my responsibility. It would be best if you saved your spells for the rest of the family, should trouble befall us." Ashira searches through her pack and withdraws a small vial of pink liquid (CLW 1d8+1). Smiling down at the wolf, she strokes its muzzle. She speaks to the animal, even though she knows it cannot understand her. "Now, now, strong warrior....it won't do having to carry you around. Drink this, it will help you feel better." If the wolf is still able/willing to drink from her hand, she carefully pours the potion into her palm and offers it to him. Otherwise, she pours it gently down his throat. The potion restores 7 hp to the wolf.
Valanthe d20+8=28 d20+8=21 Tuesday September 10th, 2002 5:05:53 PM
Val tries to rest, but has too much energy built up. Occasionally she glances up at the top ledge, wondering what's on the second floor. Leaving her bow behind, Val straps her scythe to her back and starts climbing the wall. [Two climb checks, 28, 21]
Redux d20+4=8 Tuesday September 10th, 2002 5:40:57 PM
Redux smiles at Ashira and Akerin's ministerings to the wolf. "Ya know what Ashira? My cousin Alzafar would be proud at this small circus we're forming," he says jokingly. "Do you really think the wolf can help us?" He looks around the area for a clean(er) place to sit down (spot=8 lol). Looking to the side he exclaims "Val, what are you doing?"
Bart d20+3=18 d20=18 d20+2=6 Tuesday September 10th, 2002 7:02:48 PM
Before Barts sits down for a rest he looks around walking to the doors and and the stairs (spot and listen both 18 and wildernesslore 6)
Rigging Tuesday September 10th, 2002 9:55:52 PM
Rigging looks around the room and pulls off his pack. "Lets rest up and have a quick meal." He looks at Ashira and thinks, "Oh Ashira, Don't get to attached. You really took the loss of Taker hard. I don't want to see you get hurt."
Rigging pulls out both Nautacolous and Wayfinder out. "OK my friends, help me find Feybelle." Rigging looks at both Ashira and Redux. "I am going to try to see our target. Don't let me stay under for too long. I want to be able to walk afterwards."
Rigging sits down with his back to a column. He holds the sextant in his lap with one hand and puts the telescope to his eyes. "OK my friends, show me the Faybelle bottle. Where is it?"
Ari Tuesday September 10th, 2002 11:45:18 PM
Following the group and understanding Ashira has done Ari offers, "We may have to acquire some more animal friends at least to help us out around here. If anything to help clear things out here in the temple, or help us get through the temple unmolested. When we next rest I may add the same spell to my list."
As Rigging talks about finding his way, Ari comments, "I don't know about the rest of you. But I'm a bit tired and could use the rest. I'm thinking about changing some of my spells because they're set up for dealing with humans. I'm not set up for dealing with the local animals here. Plus. We probably want to see if our friend's buddies (indicating the wolf) are coming back, or can find an alternate way in."
"We also probably should start mapping and labeling what we find here in the temple." With that in mind Ari pulls out a pen and paper and starts making a rough sketch of the room and the exits that are viewable from here.
Ari also decides that maybe it is time to start keeping a log of things as they unfurl with the group, knowing that the world has been changed recently along with the discovery of this area of land that his ancestors use to live on.
A Time for Rest (DM Stephen) d100=21 d6=2 d100=27 d6=1 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 12:42:46 AM
Many of you find a place to relax. Redux finds a perfectly shaped stone, that was once part of the stairs, that is perfect to lay upon (lumbar support and everything!!)
Valanthe takes to climbing the wall. At one time the wall was perfect and smooth. Would have been impossible to climb without a rope and grapple. However, this wall is filled with cracks and loose stone making the climb possible but very difficult. (Val's first roll is a nat. 20, DC was 25) Valanthe climbs 20-ft up the wall (half your move). Only ten feet away from the second floor doorway, Valanthe has a little trouble but is able to hold on. However, she goes no higher (21 fails, but not by more than 5, so you don't fall.)
The wolf laps up the potion and his wounds heal completely. The wolf instantly springs to his feet and nearly knocks Ashira over trying to lick her neck and face. He gently shakes the grass and dirt from his coat. He still exhibits a little soreness where he was injured by Bart. The wolf then notices the others. The wolf steps close to Ashira; never taking his eyes off the others. He begins to make a low deep growl in their direction.
Rigging prepares to be shot into the ethereal. Again, the items will not work. The same voices in Rigging's head tell him that certain conditions are not being met. Next come a blurry vision of rolling waves and misty spray on the open sea. The vision quickly goes away as soon as it came.
Bart and Akerin both recognized the structure outside the palace walls (where the bell rang) as a place where warriors trained. Akerin being a monk, knew the style of layout as a monastery.
Ari starts to draw layouts and take stock of the situation. However, his druid senses tell him HE IS NOT ON A ISLAND!! (for the umpteenth time!) :)
(Party's initiative)
Rigging Wednesday September 11th, 2002 9:05:44 AM
Rigging sighs and puts the items away. "I guess I have to be at sea for these to work." He notices Ashira's success and decides to try to make friends with her new friend. Tough to cuddle when a wolf is trying to rip your head off. He pulls some dried meat out of his pack, takes a bite and slowly moves towards Ashira.
"Ashira" he says in a soft voice. "Can I meet your new buddy?" Rigging hunches down and offers the piece of meat to the wolf placing it on the ground.
Appolo d20+5=25 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 1:02:39 PM
After checking out the general area Appolo finds a spot and sits down. He drops his pack and gets out some food and water as he watches the others.
He notices Valanthe is stuck a few feet from her objective, Ashira making a pet out of a wolf. He decides to go help Valanthe. Appolo walks over and looks up"How are you doing, looks like your stuck?" He says as he readies his rope and grappling hook. He then walks up to the broken stairs and hurls his grappling as soon as he gets it grappled firmly Appolo begins to climb."I'll be there in a minute."
Climb check 25{with rope] Not sure of bonus rope gives.
(DM Stephen) Wednesday September 11th, 2002 1:11:03 PM
(GAME NOTE: I think that if a player climbs with a knotted rope against a wall for support, it's only a DC 5. I dont have my book with me, but I think Im right. Rope has a significant bonus to climbing DC's. DC's are listed in the Players Handbook under the Climb skill description.)
Valanthe d20+8=26 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 2:10:16 PM
Val looks down at Appolo and smiles. "No I'm alright. My handhold wasn't sturdy enough." Val finds a few good handholds and makes her way up the wall. Freeclimbing is one of the things she enjoys but has little time for. "Redux I seriously doubt that the bottle will be on the second floor. I'm trying to get a head start and use up some of this nervous energy I have. Even if the bottle is down there, I'm hoping to find treasure. I don't know about everybody else but a large payday would be nice. A city like this, abandonded, has to have treasure here somewhere."
OCC: climb check 26
Ashira d20+6=19 d20+1=12 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 3:22:22 PM
Ashira kneels down toward the wolf and whispers to it in an effort to calm the animal some. When Rigging approaches, Ashira keeps her voice low and reassuring. "Ummm, dear, I don't think that's such a good idea. Why don't you let me take the rear guard for the rest of the day, holding back with my new friend. Tomorrow I will be able to prepare a spell so I can speak with him, and hopefully he will be a little less shy then." If the wolf allows her to leave its side, Ashira slowly approaches Rigging and nuzzles up against him, trying to convey by non-verbal action that he is not a threat.
OOC (Don't know if I need a handle animal check or not, but it's 19. Also rolled Diplomacy of 12).
Appolo Hp 28 Ac 20 St.+2 d20+11=13 d20+10=27 d20+10=23 d20+3=16 d20+6=19 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 8:30:54 PM
Upon reaching the top Appolo replies to Valanthe"Treasure hunt Ehh. Well then let's go, catch me if you can."He then sprints up the remaining stairs and disapears down the hallway once around the corner he quickly and quietly hides in the shadows. Waiting,listening watching.
Hide 13 Move Silently 27 Listen 16 Spot 19 Made extra Move Silently roll 23 please ignore .
Redux d20+14=25 d20+6=13 d20+4=18 Wednesday September 11th, 2002 10:41:28 PM
Talon isn't able to keep still either. He easily picks up the sounds (listen=25), though not so well the actual creatures (spot=13) that seem to be everywhere. He shows some level of restraint until the wolf hops up and then looses it and starts for the opening above. It is with minor difficulty that Redux is able to call the bird down (diplomacy=18) and sends him into the 2nd floor area to hunt and keep an eye on Val & Appolo. To the pair "Now we expect to hear from you if you need help. Don't stay in any one room too long. It might even be good for you to call out your movements so the rest of us know when to be worried."
Rest and Relaxation (DM Stephen) d100=55 d6=2 d20=1 d100=68 d6=5 Thursday September 12th, 2002 12:28:53 AM
After Ashira nuzzles up against Rigging, the wolf looks on slack-jawed but still cautious. He continues to watch with his head slightly tilted and with wide feral eyes. One ear perks up to compliment an adorable expression of contemplaton and confusion.
(The wolfs opposed diplomancy check was an instant failure with the roll of a 1)
Looking at the piece of jerky, the wolf sniffs the air to confirm what he sees. Keeping his head low, he slowly walks closer to the couple. Ever so gently, the wolf stretches out to reach for the food. After snatching it, he quickly turns back and returns to the safety of his corner.
Val and Appolo reaches the second floor. The hallway extends off into the darkness and doors can be seen on either side of the hallway. Val can see 15-ft past the entrance until it gets too dark. Appolo sees even less. Ancient corroded suits of armor stand in attention on either side of the doorway. It is easily determined to be decoration. Appolo sneaks playfully into the darkness.
(Val needs to make opposed listen check DC 17 and spot check DC 13 to hear and see him.)
As Appolo sits smirking in the darkness. He hears the familiar sounds of crunching debris under his feet (-10 penalty to Move Silently checks due to you cant see where your going and with all the debris covering the floors). There is a strong scent of mildew.
Akerin remains silent after he sat down. He has apparently dozed off from exhaustion!!
Valanthe d20+6=18 d20+3=22 Thursday September 12th, 2002 1:31:19 AM
Val watches Appolo sneak away. Smiling she says, "Appolo do you have a torch handy? I don't normally carry one. Considering all the stuff your stepping on, some light might be a good idea. The last thing either of us needs is to break an ankle or fall down a hole."
Bart Thursday September 12th, 2002 1:53:06 AM
Bart isn't very happy thjat Val and Appollo are already on the 2nd floor. He says to them don't go to far, stay in our neighborhood, Akerin really needs a rest, we can't follow you now! Ashira keep that wolf away from me, I don't like the idear to have a wolf in our group.
Appolo Thursday September 12th, 2002 1:59:54 AM
Appolo steps out of the shadows"Well I must be slipping, you're not supposed to find me that quickly kind of takes the fun out of it." He yawns and stretches as walks back to the edge. "Can someone tie my gear to the end of the rope please. We need some light up here."
Akerin Thursday September 12th, 2002 7:00:21 AM [OOC: Sorry - away, then swamped on return. Akerin wakes up!]
Prior to her giving him the potion, Akerin also lightly applied his healing skills to the wolf, but perceived it might be better should he see Ashira as his primary benefactress.
Hearing the need for light, Akerin offers one of his everburning torches. He uncovers the end of the torch, removing a black cloth. "This should keep things well lit up front. I'll carry one back here," he says. He joins up with the others.
Ari Thursday September 12th, 2002 2:34:39 PM
"okay. It is to explore it looks like we are doing. I was hoping we'd have time to redo some of our spells. Guess not."
Ashira Thursday September 12th, 2002 2:38:34 PM
The half-elf finishes her nuzzling, and returns to the corner where the wolf retreated to. Ashira turns to face Bart, clearly annoyed at his comment about the wolf. "Don't worry about it Bart, I won't let him get near you, since he'd probably just bite you anyway. And tell me, since you're voicing your opinion.... When we find Feybelle and need to leave the palace, what were you planning to do with that pack of wolves that still has its den in the courtyard?! Even a party as strong as we are can't contend with a pack that size. We were lucky to get out alive this time. Unless you want to slaughter them all. I believe MY friend here might be able to help us a little with the pack." Ashira shuts her mouth and tries to cool off as she heads over to the wolf and begins to groom him. She wonders to herself whether it is wise to rest much longer with such an important artifact to find.
Rigging Thursday September 12th, 2002 4:27:46 PM
Rigging stands up and stretches. He murmers to Ashira, "Easy love....not everyone is as comfortable with wild animals as you are. Bart is a city boy."
Rigging in a louder voice then says to the others, "OK Who has torches or other light making devices. I do have one dancing light spell. We might need to make some extra torches."
Rigging is daunted by the size of the palace. We are looking for one little bottle in this place. Rigging then says, "If anyone is changing spells, lets concentrate on detect magics and such. We are going to have to be able to determine what is what here."
Rigging ponders the thought of splitting up to search but decides against it. He figures it is better to stay together to get the lay of the land at least for the first day. Any potential monsters or guards should have shown themselves by then.
"OK Lets search this floor first. I want the party to stay together to start so don't suggest splitting up yet. Remember this isn't a joy ride. The Faybelle might be the salvation of our families and many others. Keep your wits around you."
Appolo Thursday September 12th, 2002 8:04:11 PM
Appolo looks around"Come on.Looks like we're wanted down on the first floor." He then quickly repels down.
Valanthe Thursday September 12th, 2002 9:48:42 PM
"Rigging aren't we after a very valuable bottle? Valuable things aren't put in easy to reach places. Wouldn't it make sense to search the high ground first?"
Redux Thursday September 12th, 2002 10:41:02 PM
Feybelle Bottle back with him to his palace. There is a great vault there, where he keeps his vast treasures.' Do you remember that, Appolo? Personally, as much as going thru this entire place might seem amusing, our best shot might actually be down or into the side of a mountain; someplace a vault would be found. A 'vast treasure' sounds exciting and profitable. And I've got a bag of holding that says I am able to carryout more than you." That last part almost sounded childish, like he stuck out his tongue, which, of course, Redux would never do.
No Rest for the Weary (DM Stephen) d100=7 d6=6 d100=94 d6=2 d100=39 d6=2 d100=16 d6=6 Friday September 13th, 2002 12:42:36 AM
Akerin tosses up an everburning torch. Valanthe catches it. She can see that the first two rooms are small and look to have been storage closets. Nothing left but rotten wood, grime, rats nests. There are some ceramic jars and flasks. There is a large mass of partially chewed wax on the floor. It was probably once a collection of candles. There are also some rusted candle holders and other junk. The large jars are filled with a hardened resin. The flasks appear to smell of lantern oil.
The other room is just as small, and looks to contain similar items. There are rusted buckets, and rotten 5-ft long wooden poles. May have been mops and brooms at one time. There is some kind of device mounted on a pipe near the far wall. It has a handle and a spout.
As Appolo makes his way out of the darkness and before he shimmies down the rope, a small stone tile drops from the second floor hallway and smashes down onto the first floor hallway (this is the north hallway directly below the second floor entrance). The wolf jumps nerviously from the sound of the crash.
Valanthe can see that Appolo almost fell through a hole in the floor. Everyone on the first floor can see the torch light from Val partially illuminating the lower north hallway. For a brief moment, you notice that the end of the lower north hallway opens into a very large room.
Back down on the first floor, the east doorway looks to go in 5-ft and stops. Apparently the ceiling collapsed a long time ago.
The west doorway opens into another room. It is too dark to see anything.
"CLANG clangy clang clang!!!" A bloody dagger lands in the middle of the floor of the circular room. It wasn't thrown but merely dropped from above. Everyone looks up to see a tall slender humanoid figure looking down through the large opening in the ceiling. The sun behind him outlines his figure with a shadowy silhouette. He does nothing but look upon you for a short moment. Then suddenly his form begins to change shape into that of a large bird. It takes off and flies away. The dagger doesnt appear to have been directed at anyone in particular. However, Appolo recognizes the dagger as belonging to him. The same dagger he had thrown at one of the wolves earlier that morning.
Ashira's new wolf friend becomes excited and begins to prance and pace back and forth. His tail wags as he barks. Whimpering at little after the visitor leaves, the wolf retreats back to Ashira.
(Party's Initiative)
Rigging Friday September 13th, 2002 11:21:20 AM
Rigging sees the figure and notices the wolf's reactions. He calls up to the figure as it is leaving. "Please come back! We mean no harm! We want to be friends!" If the figure keeps retreating, Rigging will continue with his explorations. "Everyone take some of these flasks. I don't think lamp oil goes bad." Rigging pours a few drops of the older oil and tries to light it. Rigging will then check out the other closet and try to work the handle that is on the wall. After this he will start heading north
Primed and Ready (DM Stephen) d20=12 d20=16 d100=14 Friday September 13th, 2002 12:04:48 PM
Rigging climbs the rope to the second floor (climb checks up the rope: 12, 16. Success), where Val is inspecting the two small rooms. He takes as many flasks of oil that he can put in his pack. He also pumps on the lever of the strange device in the other room. Water begins to come out the spout!! The water stops when Rigging stops pumping (I ruled that there was a 20% chance that the water pump still worked, rolled a 14). ----------------- (Rigging you may have another turn to do something else) :)
Valanthe Friday September 13th, 2002 12:21:25 PM
"Well at least we know that we have water. Though I'd probably boil the stuff first or perhaps filter it. I'm glad the lamp oil was in flasks and not casks." Val grabs a few flasks to hand out and slides down the rope to the first floor.
Bart Friday September 13th, 2002 12:55:08 PM
Well who can that be? obviously he means us no harm or not yet... Bart lights some oil and goes to the door in the west. He stands in the dooropening and looks into the room...
Appolo Saturday September 14th, 2002 4:40:53 PM
Appolo climbs down and picks up the dagger. "Nice of him to return this, interesting." He then gathers the rest of his gear.
He watches as Valanthe comes down and Rigging goes up, while Bart goes west. "Hey, I thought we were going to search the first floor first? The Throne room is probably a good place to start."
Akerin Saturday September 14th, 2002 8:47:27 PM
Akerin takes a flask from Valanthe with a nod of thanks.
"'Nice' is not the word. He likely is a druid, and wolf-friend," the cleric-monk says to Appolo. "He is letting us know that there is someone who watches over the wolves. Perhaps it was a kindness for him to return it. Perhaps it was a warning."
He massages his leg for a moment. "Our new companion here recognizes him as friend. Perhaps, when our purpose is fulfilled here, he may allow us to leave without having to harm, or be harmed by, the pack. Of course, he may ask something in return," he speculates.
Meanwhile, he waits to see which way the party chooses to go, holding off on additional counsel for the moment.
Rigging Sunday September 15th, 2002 8:50:12 PM
"OK everyone. Lets explore the first floor first. Don't know how we can get Ashira's new friend up the rope and don't want to try wrestling it now." Rigging calls out. He quickly scampers down the rope and organizes everyone. "Ashira you are in the back. Apollo and Val up front. Redux can you have Talon scout ahead into the big room? Val, Ashira, Ari and I will hold torches or whatever light sources we have. Let's get going." Rigging directs Val and Appolo ahead.
Redux Sunday September 15th, 2002 10:34:32 PM
Redux sighs at Rigging's reply. He tells Appolo, "That fellow must know that we'll need that here. Also, you're sure to know that returning a weapon in no way diminishes his ability to attack and defend." Then to Talon, "Time again to work. Come down here and help us search. You may attack any mouse that attacks the group first."
Ashira d20+8=14 d20+5=6 d20+10=30 Sunday September 15th, 2002 10:41:21 PM
Ashira watches the exchange between the stranger with interest. She takes particular note of the wolf's actions to the stranger, and nods in approval of Akerin's conclusions. She keeps a watchful eye out as the party seaches the first floor (Spot=14, Listen=6, Search=30).
Explore the Decor (DM Stephen) d100=24 d6=6 Sunday September 15th, 2002 11:57:05 PM
Appolo picks up the disgarded dagger and notices that the edge has been ground down to an extremely dull edge. This dagger couldn't even cut warm butter. It will take at least half a day with a whetstone to put an edge on this blade again. There are some words inscribed directly into the side of the blade. However it is in an alphabet and language that Appolo cannot comprehend.
Bart looks into the West doorway. It is a fairly large room. Mice scurry about in the light of the torch. Layers and layers of cobwebs hang ahout like drapery. A rusted chandelier still hangs from the ceiling. Rotting couches and tables are scattered about. Tattered tapestries dangle from the walls and lump onto the floor. Bookshelves in various forms of disarray. Against the far west wall is what looks to be a bar. Many bottles are scattered about. Some still contain colored liquid. Flat square-shaped "boards" lean up against the walls in several locations. They too are covered completely in dust. There are massive arch-shaped double doors against the north wall. Bits of stone, tile, misc. garbage, half eaten insects, rat and mouse turds and bird droppings cover the floors. Even the wolf left a deposit on the floor. Everything is covered with a thick layer of dust and webs. Giving the place a very monotone appearance.
The large room through the north hallway (from the circular room) is very wide open and very spacious. The ceiling rises 60-ft into the air. A second floor walkway can be seen going the full circumference of the room. Directly to the north of the rooms entrance, about 80-ft straight forward, is what looks to be a throne. There are double doors on the east wall, west wall and on either side of the entrance on the south wall.
Just like the other rooms, covered in dust, cobwebs and the filth from centuries of rodents, birds, insects and who knows what!!
There are a group of statues against the north wall. They appear to be in various stages of ruin (arm missing here, a nose missing there), but the one closest to the throne looks to have been hacked to death. Parts of that statue are scattered over a 40-ft radius.
(party's initiative)
Akerin Monday September 16th, 2002 4:26:55 AM
The tall young man takes some time to look (with some care, wary of the possibility of little occupants) at the bookshelves, to see whether any tomes may have survived the ages. He loves a good book.
Rigging Monday September 16th, 2002 11:29:09 PM
Rigging feels despair filling his heart. "This is like searching for one particular fish in the sea," he murmurs. "OK -- Let's line up any bottle we find and put them into a corner. I doubt the Faybelle is sitting on a bar with liquor in it but who knows. I will detect magic on all of them later." Rigging will wander over to the statue and try to locate the face. If he finds it he will pick it up for a better view.
Redux d20+4=20 d20+4=24 d20+6=15 d20+14=30 Monday September 16th, 2002 11:40:24 PM
Redux spots (dc=20) the writing on Appolo's dagger and asks to take a closer look at it. If it is something he recognizes he'll say so. If it's not, he'll ask Ari to give it a try. He then hustles over to where Rigging & Bart are looking into the rooms. "Do you think there's a hidden passage somewhere? Throne rooms usually have them. Every king story I ever heard had one. I bet, if we could recognize it, that beat-up statue is Domi, or maybe Alemi. Given what we know, that wasn't very smart of them.' (2nd set of spot checks Redux-24, Talon-15, if needed) (Redux can hear a small voice 'the mice, the mice.' Talon-Listen=30)
Valanthe Tuesday September 17th, 2002 12:31:44 AM
Val looks at the statues as she walks over to the flat boards. She pulls out a spare rag and starts cleaning the boards.
Bart Tuesday September 17th, 2002 12:43:39 AM
"Rigging how long does an detect magic works? Is it not easier to look in each interesing room with an detect magic, maybe there is some other interesting stuff." Although he has his comments, Bart starts to collect the bottles he sees in the west-room. After that he peeks through the double doors in the north wall of the west-room. He expects to find a storage room.
Appolo d20+6=25 d20+3=23 d20+3=16 d20+10=18 Tuesday September 17th, 2002 2:07:53 AM
Appolo hands the dagger to Redux. "Sure, you can have it, let me know what you can about the writing." Watches as the others check the bar. "Akerin be careful what you pick up. Well I'm going to check out the throne room. Val why don't you let the maid handle the dusting and come with me? If you come with me to the throne room maybe I'll make you Queen, there is a vacancy that needs to be filled around here." With that he heads for throne room torch in hand. He then proceeds to quickly and quietly search the throne room, especially the throne itself, for traps secret doors and anything interesting.
Spot 25, Search 23, Listen 16, Move Silently 18
Ashira d20+10=29 (Search) Tuesday September 17th, 2002 11:21:45 AM
Ashira nods her agreement with Redux's comments about the throne room. "Yes, the throne room is probably the key." Since Appolo is already searching the throne room, Ashira goes over to the double doors the the east of the throne room, and kicks them open with her foot. If she is able to open them, she enters whatever is beyond, and slowly and methodically searches the area.
Rigging Tuesday September 17th, 2002 9:51:34 PM
Rigging answers Bart's question, "It only lasts a few minutes. No, I can't cast the spell and wander the whole palace looking for magic. It would be great if I could, but unfortunately it doesn't work that way."
Rigging will keep looking around the throne room looking for those secret doors. He will knock on walls and look behind tapestries.
Valanthe Wednesday September 18th, 2002 12:37:17 AM
Considering that she can't read, Val abandons the tablets and follows Appolo. She hoped that the tablets provided some information. Maybe an event long passed, a prophecy, or maybe a warning of things to come. As she walks through the doors to the Throne room, the idea of Queen is appealing.
First things first. (DM Stephen) d100=90 d6=5 d100=70 d6=1 d100=32 d6=3 d100=63 d6=4 d100=95 d6=6 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 1:00:11 AM
Akerin looks across the bookshelves. The books are in a shambles. Whole books have turned into moldy blocks of paper pulp. Others are chewed up by rats and mice. Any pages that can be found that have actual writing is smeared and unreadable. However there is a small silver and golden box that is made to look like a book. It is still sealed!! After cleaning off the latch, it opens with a little effort. There is a book inside. Akerin eyes become wide!! The book is in perfect shape. Just a little brown around the edges. There is a holy symbol of Alemi on the cover. If you open it up, you will recognize the book as a Book of Hours (Daily prayer book). Filled with scripture and prayers for every day of the year. It looks to have never been used. (I rolled a 90/5, very good. If used daily when you pray to Alemi, you gain a +2 competence bonus to Knowledge (Religion) checks. Worth 500gp)
Rigging looks at the bottles at the bar. It is quite apparent that these are just liquor and wine bottles. (Rigging needs to remember what Father Farkus had told him.) Rigging then leaves the west bar and enters the north Throne room where the statues are. The broken statue is in horrible shape. Someone or something really went off on it. the head is nothing but gravel. However the base of the statue has the name, "Emperor Calendrus." (Rolled a 95/6.) While searching the walls and tapestries, Rigging finds nothing of interest. However, he notices the other statues must be previous emperors by their dates written below their names. Though one statue looks to be in near mint condition and it has no name at the bottom, unlike the others.
Redux doesn't know or recognize the script on the dagger either. Redux then hands it to Ari. Fortunately, Ari has no problem reading it. It's in druidic and it says, "I watch the land, hastening ills for my prey, Where treasures accumulate, and men decay."
Searching around the throne, Redux and Talon find a open passage way directly behind the throne. Leads north to a closed door.
Valanthe picks up one of the flat boards and starts to wipe the dust away. She discovers a beautifully painted portrait of a woman and her infant child. The room is filled with dozens of these paintings. Some are portraits of men others are landscapes. One painting is of the city as the sun rises above the huge gates in the harbor. (The same one you all passed under as you entered harbor.)
Bart starts to gather a few bottles. Nothing special. He then opens the double doors on the north wall in the bar. He peeks through to see the others in the throne room. There seems to be more than one entrance into that massive chamber.
Appolo enters the Throne room. The room is quite large and is a lot to take in at once. However, right in front of the throne is a circular disk etched into the floor with decorative tile (about a 5-ft radius). Almost didnt notice it. Brushing away the dust and grime you can see the presence of strange runes and symbols inlaid with what looks to be platinum!!
Ashira kicks in the doors on the east wall of the throne room. Another huge room. Looks to have been a grand banquet hall. It has a one very long table. Dozens and dozens of chairs are scattered about. The place is a wreck like everything else you've seen.
Then suddenly the circle with the runes in front of the throne begins to glow. Appolo hops back in surprise!! Torches mounted on the walls instantly burst with blue flames, one by one. A column of air starts to rotate over the circle and blows the dust and grime away. Centuries of dust and filth fills the air. (Everyone in the throne room make a Fortitude save of DC 18. If you make your save, you are merely stunned with coughing for 1d4 rounds. You can still act and move but you lose your Dex to AC. If you fail, [first effect] you are prone while you choke for air and are blinded for 1d4 rounds. [Second effect] Then you are stunned for an additional 1d4 rounds. But you can see and move.)
The runes glow brighter and brighter and create an erie blue column light that reaches to the ceiling. A large humanoid figure begins to materalize in its center. As the light from the circle begins to fade, the wind blows the majority of the dust to the outer edges of the room. Then the wind also begins to subside. What is left is a rather large, muscular humanoid figure draped in heavy chainmail. A glowing, six-foot long great sword is straped to his back. The hulking figure stands there somewhat disoriented!!
(Party's Initiative. I hope this is enough!)
Valanthe d20+7=23 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 4:21:30 AM
OCC: fort save 23. I assume that uncanny dodge doesn't help in this situation.
Valanthe grabs her scythe off her back and removes the leather blade cover. She's been anxious to try her weapon out ever since it was forged. The scythe is now made entirely of a clear and light blue crystal. Val speaks the command word and the scythe glows with blue energy. Her instincts scream at her to cut the big man down before he can draw his weapon. Still there is a chacne that he is not an enemy. Val backs up out of the great swords range. Since the weapon was not drawn she would have ample time to prepare herself if the man was an enemy. She says to the man, "We do not want to fight. Perhaps we can talk instead of jumping to conclusions. Perhaps you wonder what year it is and how long you've been away or perhaps asleep?"
Rigging d20+5=22 d4=3 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 8:20:12 AM
Rigging starts to cough as the dust fills his nose and mouth. Rigging pulls his weapons as the figure appears. Rigging sees the big man and something seems familiar about him. He sort of reminds him of his old buddy bulldog. He wonders how Bulldog is doing now. He circles to the left and prepares to help out Val if she needs it.
Appolo Hp 28 Ac 20 d20+7=12 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 10:54:15 AM
As Appolo hops back he yells"It's a trap,get out!!Argh cough,cough"as he is quickly over come by the dust and wind falling to the ground wretching and trying to cover his face.
Fortitude save Failed 12
Ashira d20+10=28 d4=1 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 1:46:57 PM
Ashira deftly sidesteps most of the dust cloud, and draws her swords as she enters the throne room. Hacking, she tries to take a flanking position on the large humanoid, just in case things go bad.
Appolo d4=4 d4=3 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 8:10:58 PM
OOC: Forgot to roll this. Stunned 4 rnds,Blind 3
Akerin d20=17 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 9:53:05 PM
Akerin's eyes become wide, indeed, as he finds the Book of Hours. He opens it slowly, with care and reverence.
"Blessed art Thou, our beloved Lord of Peace!" he exclaims as he begins to scan through the little tome. So engrossed he becomes that it is not until he hears multiple shouts coming from a ways away that he interrupts his perusal. Tenderly he closes the book, reclasps it, then places it in his haversack.
Then he quickly moves to the place from which comes the sound. Hearing coughing inside, he takes a good breath of fresh air, narrows his eyes to slits, and, breath held, enters the room, staff at hand.
[Made Fortitude save]
Redux d20+3=5 d20+3=16 d20+3=6 d4=3 d4=2 d4=1 d4=1 Wednesday September 18th, 2002 10:30:58 PM
(ooc fort-Redux=16 (used 1 hero point to re-role, 1 to make save), fort-Talon=6; Redux stunned but up = 3 rounds,Talon stunned and choking for 2, then stunned an additional 1 round.)
Redux hears the wind and some reaction within him causes him to throw up his robe to keep from being choked. Talon is not so lucky; he is in flight and finds himself sucked into the wind and dust. Redux makes his way to where his friend has been grounded, picks him up and gently carries him out of the area to fresher air. Talon continues to flap around once placed in an open spot. Redux, knowing his friend is out of harms way, turns to face whatever the whirlwind has brought their way.
The stranger returneth Thursday September 19th, 2002 12:42:30 AM
Staggering to catch his balance, the big man stumbles into the room. Holding a hand high, in an attempt to block his eyes from the intense bright lights. He sees some figures about him. His instincts leap to their duties and with his other hand he draws free the mighty sword and sweeps it to clear his path. Assuming a fighting stance, he peers about trying to see whom is about him. "Well, come on and have it." he bellows out. Awaiting an attack he stands fast.
Confrontation (DM Stephen) d100=9 d6=1 Thursday September 19th, 2002 1:37:21 AM
Those who aren't blinded look upon the hulking figure. With all the light shining down on the visitor, his large hands cast hard shadows on his face as he tries to shield his eyes from the light. His voice ... something about it!!
(Everyone, except Akerin and whoever is blinded and gasping for air, make a Spot check DC20, Listen DC15 and for each one you succeed make a Int. check DC 12. If you pass the Int. check, something seems familiar about this situation!!)
Akerin enters the Throne room through the double doors that Bart opened. He sees the large warrior with the massive weapon in a battle ready pose. Appolo is just a few feet away choking for air on the floor. The others have weapons drawn and are starting to surround the brute.
Now the only sound is the wolf growling furiously.
(Rigging make a second Spot check DC 20. Party's Initiative)
Bart d20+4=19 Thursday September 19th, 2002 1:38:00 AM
Bart waits until the dust in the room is down to the ground again. With his hand on the hilt of his sword (ready to drawn) he walks towards the stranger, he keeps a safe distance and says, "Stranger we aren't here to fight, put you weapon away. We won't harm you."
Ashira d20+8=11 d20+5=12 Thursday September 19th, 2002 8:37:18 AM
Ashira's coughing subsides. The half-elf finds nothing familiar about this situation, except for finding herself against one more foe. Maintaining her flanking position, she says calmly to the figure "You are surrounded, and outnumbered. Lower your weapon, and we will not harm you...I swear this by Alemi's sweet hands. Continue waving your sword around, and we will be forced to attack."
Valanthe d20+3=14 d20+6=16 d20+1=11 Thursday September 19th, 2002 10:14:11 AM
OCC: listen check 16, Int check 11
Slowly Val's feet move forward. Her gaze is fixed upon the armored stranger. Val's teeth clench tight and her hands even tighter. Her eyes narrow and a low growl slips through her clenched teeth. Val really wanted to cut the big man down. But the cloud was still thick and hindered her breathing. She would be at a disadvantage in a long fight.
Akerin Thursday September 19th, 2002 12:31:35 PM
"PEACE to ALL in this room, in the name of ALEMI, in the name of LEMTROVEX," says the priest in stentorian tones. "Stranger - do as Ashira asks, and lower your weapon. Valanthe - back away from him. I am Akerin, a healer. Who are you? Do you defend this ancient place?"
Rigging d20+7=17 d20+7=21 d20+4=17 d20+4=19 d20+4=11 Thursday September 19th, 2002 7:16:00 PM
Rigging knows something is wrong with this situation. Something is familiar about this big warrior in front of him. Rigging orders in a loud voice, "Everyone stand down! cough cough ack cough. Do you hear me!? Lower your weapons! Back away."
The Stranger Thursday September 19th, 2002 8:52:18 PM
The Big man lowers the great blade upon hearing the names of Alemi and Lemtrovex. Then speaking evenly "Lemtrovex !... I know that name well. ......... He is a friend of mine. ....... Who speaks for him here. Name yourself !." squinting to make out the one who spoke of the god. Hearing a voice barking orders to stand down, the fighter mutters to himself as he scans about. 'I've heard that voice and tone before. ....... hmmmm ...' and he awaits for a reply.
Akerin Thursday September 19th, 2002 10:00:22 PM
"As I said, I am Akerin, who speaks of Lemtrovex. And that is Rigging, who leads this group. Do you have a name?"
Appolo d20+9=22 Thursday September 19th, 2002 11:02:12 PM
Appolo rolls blindly away from the voice to his front as he continues to hack and cough. Once clear he fishes around for his waterskin and pours some water on his face and washes the dust and grime from his eyes, hoping to restore his vision. With all the yelling going on he thinks great another fight and he hasn't seen the opponent yet.
Tumble 22
Redux Friday September 20th, 2002 1:07:27 AM
Redux prepares to move defensively and brings Daze to mind, should the visitor move against anyone.
The Dust Clears (DM Stephen) d100=51 d6=4 d100=79 d6=5 d4=3 Friday September 20th, 2002 1:22:34 AM
The lights intensity begins to lower to tolerable levels. The surrounding cobwebs and dust clouds begins to settle.
Appolo's efforts of washing the dirt from his eyes is working. (you will be able to see next round)
Something appears to be familiar about this bullish fighter. Anguished expressions begin to change to that of recognition. The dog continues to bark.
(Everyone, except Akerin and Val, make Int. checks DC 10. Rigging make an additional Wis. check DC 20. Party's Initiative)
Valanthe Friday September 20th, 2002 11:33:14 PM
Val keeps her guard up. "Stranger you are outnumbered here. Perhaps everyone would feel better here if you told us who you are."
Rigging d20+4=18 d20=16 Saturday September 21st, 2002 2:02:33 AM
Rigging looks at the big fighter and then hears a dog barking. "Bulldog is that you? Is that Asbury with you?" A slow and hesitant smile starts to cross Rigging's face.
Redux Saturday September 21st, 2002 9:32:10 PM
Redux is very wary of the newcomer. Using his best imitation of his father, he sternly states, "You know some of our names, allow us to know yours. Then state your intentions. My family trusts the diplomacy of their swords more than mere words, so choose yours well."
Ashira d20+1=11 Saturday September 21st, 2002 9:55:03 PM
Lowering her weapons slightly at Rigging's command, she keeps a wary eye on the stranger. "Still... there is something very familiar about they way he speaks," she thinks. Then Rigging asks whether it is Bulldog, and the recognition is almost spontaneous. Staggering forward a little for a closer look, she stammers, "No... it can't be Bulldog... he was claimed by the deep."
Bart d20=9 Sunday September 22nd, 2002 6:02:06 AM
"No it can't be you."
Ari Sunday September 22nd, 2002 6:40:35 AM
Ari works at wiping the dust off of himself as the others speak to the stranger. Listening to the stranger while the others talk, Ari gets a strange chill of recognition down his back. Looking more closely at the stranger, Ari feels in his bones that he MUST know this stranger. As Rigging puts a name to the stranger Ari's face lights up in a smile.
"Why yes it is Bulldog. Bulldog, it's Arislan and Rigging. Well met, it's good to see you again." Offering his hand out and waiting for Bulldog's recognition to kick in. If Bulldog begins to realize who is around him and takes Ari hands, Ari will pull him into a bearhug.
"Praise Alemi for sure, for we thought you were to be dead to us. There's lots of news to catch up on old friend."
As the greetings commence, a quick look of concern comes over Ari's face. Remembering what a doppleganger can do, Ari wonders whether he should worry about anything.
Bulldog Sunday September 22nd, 2002 9:23:04 PM
With sudden clarity Bulldog recognizes many of those about him. "Ari! is that really you?" and without much thought, he drops his weapon and returns the great big bear hug to his long lost friend. "I didn't think I would see anyone from home again." ... "Is that you Ashira, .... Rigging .... Appollo ...." He is unable to finish calling out the names of those that he knows, as his voice cracks and his eyes well with tears.
Appolo d20+1=17 Sunday September 22nd, 2002 9:42:22 PM
Appolo continues to wash the dirt and grime from his face, when he is done he looks up through bloodshot eyes. "Well I'll be, Bulldog, you're dead, what the??" Quietly he draws his blades, not believing what he sees and hears.
Akerin d20+4=17 Monday September 23rd, 2002 2:17:16 PM
"So, we have a reunion here, I take it?" Akerin comments with a smile. He notes Appolo drawing his weapons [Spot 17], and his smile diminishes.
Once those who have known the newcomer have had the opportunity to exchange greetings and embraces, the healer steps forward, placing himself so as to be able to keep Appolo in his peripheral vision as he introduces himself to Bulldog. "As I said when the light was bright and the dust was settling, my name is Akerin. I serve Alemi - Lemtrovex as a healer. It is an honor to make your acquaintance, sir," he says as he offers his hand. "It is a relief that no blows were exchanged between old friends. Oh, you'll excuse me, I trust." He steps so as to stand next to Bulldog.
"I was a bit delayed in joining you, comrades, by this." As he talks, he reaches into his haversack, and withdraws a silver and golden box in the shape of a book. "It is a Book of Hours - prayers and psalms to Alemi! Amidst the worm-eated volumes on the shelves, this I found!" He clasps it to his chest as he raises his right hand in the air. "Blessed Alemi, thanks unto thee for this boon. Now, I beseech thee, on behalf of those who need freedom from Ga'al's cursed spiders, to guide us as we seek the bottle. And we thank thee for this blessed reunion with a friend to my companions who once was lost. Thy power is great, indeed! And were he dead, to Gargul, also, thanks, for this release from thy realm."
Looking to Rigging after his short prayer, Akerin asks, "Now is there anything else I missed while engrossed in my reading?"
Valanthe Monday September 23rd, 2002 3:11:49 PM
Val doesn't know what to think about this newcomer. It could be their lost friend but maybe it's not. Val decides to keep her scythe in hand. No telling what other dangers might pop up. Now that the dust is settling, Val searches the chamber.
Rigging Monday September 23rd, 2002 9:57:09 PM
Rigging tries to throw his arm around the big fighter. He can't seem to get it around the big mans shoulder, so he contents himself with pounding him on the back. He introduces him to the others who Bulldog doesn't know. Suddenly he remembers where they are and says, "My friend, you have arrived at a great time. We think we have found a way to cure some of our friends and family from the heart seed." Rigging goes on to explain about the holy fountain and it's effects on heartseeds. He then explains about the search for the Faybelle Bottle and how it can help. "We need to find the vault where the emperor kept his treasure. Feel like a treasure hunt?"
Family Reunion (DM Stephen) d100=73 d6=3 d20+15=24 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 1:08:20 AM
The tension in the throne room begins to settle with the dust. Everyone is shaking off the effects from the blast and becoming reunited with an old friend.
The words of Akerin were said well and diffused a possible deadly situation. (100 exp.)
Valanthe notices that one of the statues are in perfect near-mint shape. Unlike the others! (Wisdom check DC 20, Spot check DC 24)
The layout is the same as before. A dark corridor behind the throne heads north. The east double doors that Ashira had opened shows off a banquet hall. There are double doors on the west wall. On the south wall is the open hallway to the circular room. On one side of the south hallway is the open doors that Bart opened from the bar. On the other side of the south hallway is a set of closed doors that look like the doors to the bar.
(party's initiative)
Ashira d20+10=14 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 11:07:31 AM
The half-elf still looks a little hesitant, but she slaps Bulldog on the back. "Good to have you back!" She looks over to the corner where her wolf friend stands growling still. She smiles at him, and once again tries to show through non-verbal communication that Bulldog is a friend and not a threat. "Look, I hate to cut this short, but we need to hurry up our search. Lives are at stake, and who knows how much longer that fountain will flow." Ashira joins Val and lays a hand on her shoulder. "It's ok...he's an old friend. Don't know how he got here, but it's good to have some more help, eh?" She follows Val's glance to the statue and says hey...that's weird that one's almost in pristine condition. Let's go check it out." The half-elf begins to search the statue for anything out of the ordinary (with a measely 14!).
Rigging Tuesday September 24th, 2002 4:00:59 PM
Somehow Rigging feels more comfortable with Bulldog back. Life is looking up. The young mage will continue the search and say, "We need to find a way downstairs. I am assuming the vault is in the lower levels."
Bart Tuesday September 24th, 2002 4:59:35 PM
Yes it is you Bulldog, how are you and how did you get here?
Valanthe d20+1=13 d20+3=20 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 6:27:25 PM
"I think his timing is a little too good. Nobody knows that we are here so why does he appear now?" Val looks at the statue. "I'm positive that this statue is important but I can't figure out why. Everything in this room shows the wears of time except for this statue. Maybe I should break it open to see whats inside." [wis 13, spot 20]
Bulldog Tuesday September 24th, 2002 8:12:26 PM
The figter turns to Bart "Bart I really don't remember stepping through any portals, but it's been a very rough ride since we parted. Some things so foggy I couldn't be sure if they are true or not. I'm hoping things will come back to me." Bulldog then reaches down and retrieves his great sword. "We have work to do for Lemtrovex." The massive fighter then looks about, taking in the room to understand his new surroundings. 'A common occurrence it seems' he thinks to himself.
Appolo d20+3=10 d20+6=15 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 8:17:24 PM
Appolo circles warily around Bulldog still not trusting what he sees, he then sheathes his weapons and proceeds to check out the throne. "Rigging you want to help me with the throne? Could be a secret door or something."
Search 10, Spot 15
Redux d20+2=7 d20+6=24 d20+2=21 d20+4=15 Wednesday September 25th, 2002 12:12:55 AM
(ooc Talon Wis=7, Spot=24; Redux Wis=21, Spot=15)
Redux remains on guard. Announcing to everyone in the room: "Will everyone take this a little more serious, please. I don't know who this person is, some of you do--and no one is worried that he just appears from nowhere?! If he can get here and find us, doesn't anyone else think that anyone or anything else might also? Then there's the problem that some thought him dead, taken by the sea or something. Would someone who knows him at least ask him a question that only the real Bulldog could answer? Was he heart-seeded before, why doesn't he get checked? Someone unfriendly could be behind this. Better yet, the healing water of Alemi would help clear this unheard of occurrence."
Haiii Chooo!!! (DM Stephen) d100=92 d6=5 d20+4=9 d20+5=13 d100=68 d6=2 Wednesday September 25th, 2002 12:36:40 AM
Appolo notices strange tracks or rubbings in the floor behind the throne that lead down the north corridor. Once the tracks enter the thone room they disappear. The winds blew up the dust and removed any other trace of them.
The statue stares back at Valanthe like a ... statue.
The wolf stops barking and growling. For a brief moment, the wolf catches a wiff in the air. His ears perk up and his tail starts to wag. Before he can smell the air again, he is forced to bow down and sneeze... repeatedly, from a snout full of dirt!! (Spot 9, Wilderness Lore Scent check 13, fail.) Powerful sneezes too. He blows up little puffs of dust from the floor.
Redux and Talon both notice something odd!! Redux is not sure but he thinks the marble statue that Valanthe is looking at, isnt in the same position it was before the blast. Talon tells Redux, "The stone man is a metal man too!!"
(Party's Initiative)
Ashira d20+8=18 d20+5=15 d20+10=13 Wednesday September 25th, 2002 11:45:39 AM
The half-elf continues her inspection of the pristine statue, sure that it must somehow be at the root of finding Feybelle.
OOC (Spot=18, Listen=15, Search=13)
Redux Wednesday September 25th, 2002 12:03:40 PM
"Get the statue, get the statue!!" he says excitedly, temporarily forgetting that he agrees with Apollo on anything (not fully trusting Bulldog). "It's moved!"
Bart Wednesday September 25th, 2002 1:52:38 PM
What's wrtong with the statue? It moved? What you want to do with it push it over until it falls?
Rigging d20+7=14 d20+6=11 d20+4=15 Wednesday September 25th, 2002 9:37:35 PM
Rigging examines the area around the statue and looks for a track that the statue might roll on. He will pull out his dagger and will the pommel knock gently on the statue. He is trying to see if its hollow.
(spot, search and listen rolls)
Akerin Wednesday September 25th, 2002 11:12:35 PM
"What kind of 'getting' do you mean, Redux?" Akerin asks him. "May I suggest we not hack it to pieces - at least unless it gives us cause?" He senses the tension in the air coming off of some of his new companions. He nods to the one called Bulldog, then approaches the statue which reportedly moves. He checks to see if there is anything familiar about the face, and whether he can place the style of attire the statue represents. "Hello," he greets the statue, as though it were alive.
"I AM IRON MAN..." (DM Stephen) d100=40 d6=6 d20+18=27 d20+7=26 d20+2=11 Thursday September 26th, 2002 12:58:16 AM
As soon as everyone starts to move over to the statue, the statue undergoes a swift and radical transformation (dismissing Alter Self). Its stone facade melts away and a fierce-looking humanoid, made of metal, stands before you. In a split second, large metal wings spring out from its back. The wings unfolding sounds like dozens of swords being drawn from their scabbards. The statues on either end of the "statue" are sliced in two by the wings and fall to the floor.
The iron man charges out at Valanthe who is directly in front of him. (Hits AC 27. Strength check 24, Val's opposed str. check 11. I rolled for you, you needed a nat. 20 to beat this. No damage dealt). The iron man pushes Valanthe 21-ft backwards. (Val, Reflex save DC 12 to keep from falling down. Everyone this round who are closed with ironman are flat-footed, except Val and Appolo with uncanny dodge.)
The iron man takes to the air and hovers 40-ft above, in the center of the room. He looks to be more than just metal armor. He looks like his body is made of metal. However, he is unpolished and covered in a thick greenish patina. Some of his parts look to have been replaced with wooden ones. Everything about him looks mechanical. A living machine.
It begins to yell down at the party with a strange sythesized voice.
"Ad-falbh an drasta!! Crein nothaist beir mo eudail ... ce aicheadh cia est mo!! CE AICHEADH CIA EST MOOOooo!! " The language is very strange and is only known by a chosen few!! One of you know it well!
(Party's initiative)
Bart Thursday September 26th, 2002 5:14:11 PM
"Val are you oke? What is he saying?" Bart asks.
Appolo Hp 28 Ac 20 d20+7=25 d4+2=5 Thursday September 26th, 2002 5:27:31 PM
Appolo is busily investigating the throne, when he hear's Redux yell something about a statue. He looks up and sees the thing come alive and throw Val across the room, then take flight. This greatly angers him and he immediately hurls a dagger at the thing. "Knock that thing down and don't let it complete the spell it's tryin to cast!!" he yells while rushing to Valanthe's side, concern clearly etched across his face. "Valanthe are you all right!? I'm going to tear that piece of tin apart!!" he growls angrily.
Attack 25, Damage 5
Ashira Thursday September 26th, 2002 5:38:52 PM
"Ummm....ok....And just how are we going to knock it down?!" Ashira draws her swords again and stares at the creature in amazement and terror.
Rigging Thursday September 26th, 2002 7:55:39 PM
Rigging yells "Hold it! No more attacks! We don't know if it is an enemy and we might just been able to negotiate with it. Everyone calm down but be alert."
Rigging spreads his hands and says, "We are here in peace. We mean no harm. Does anyone understand its language?" Rigging looks peaceful but is ready to dive away if needed.
Bulldog Thursday September 26th, 2002 8:24:30 PM
Backing up, so as not to look directly up at the metal machine, the fighter postion himself defensively. "I can't reach him from here ..... ....... anyone know what he is saying" Bulldog awaits an attack from the metal beast.
Rage against the Machine (DM Stephen) d100=37 d6=2 d100=72 d6=5 d20+20=40 d20+20=24 d20+15=22 d20+10=14 d4+9=10 d4+9=11 d4+9=11 Thursday September 26th, 2002 11:53:07 PM
Appolo's dagger lands into the metal man with a loud CLANG!! The construct looks down at his wound and sees the dent. He begins to wail and shrill as he spins and hovers in place. He shakes his fists and head as if it struggling against himself.
Then suddenly three wood stakes in the shape of daggers are flung at Appolo with lightning speed. (Hit AC 40 crit threat, 24 critical, 22, 14 miss. Damage 10, 11,11 = 32 points) Appolo slumps to the floor. The wooden stake that missed penetrates the stone in the floor, sticking straight up. It didn't shatter or splinter. It sounded like metal.
The metal man then flies down and lands, straddling over Appolo's body. He stoops down to get a closer look at him. His round disk-shaped "eyes" expand and retract like little telescopes. His wings fold back. Anyone nearby can hear cogs and gears turning and cranking within him. A low buzz can also be heard. Sounds like it may be muttering to himself.
(Party's Initiative. Appolo private post your hitpoint total so I can confirm it with my total.)
Appolo Friday September 27th, 2002 1:18:46 AM
Appolo goes down in a silent scream as the spears penetrate his back, blood trickling up through his mouth. He mouths the words I LOVE You as falls to the ground in front of Valanthe.
Valanthe d20+10=28 2d4(2+3)+5=10 d6=6 Friday September 27th, 2002 3:20:59 AM
The anger rises and shatters any willpower Val had remaining [Raged- +4str, +4 con, -2ac]. Her vision turns red and any strategic thought is gone. The only thought she has is smash metal thing. Val speaks the magical word and her crystal scythe becomes bathed in blue energy. She runs forward and swings her scythe at one of the creature's wings.
[hit ac 28 for 16 dmg]
Akerin d20+5=23 Friday September 27th, 2002 5:40:06 AM
Akerin casts his battlenet over the ferocious adversary. [Ranged touch attack AC 23.] "Have you a soul, man of metal?" He steps back, and pulls out a bag.
Ashira 2d8(8+1)+3=12 Friday September 27th, 2002 11:31:10 AM
"Appolo...NOOOO!!!" Ashira screams as the young man slumps to the floor. Dropping her shortsword, the half-elf pulls a potion out of the pack on her belt, and rushes over to Appolo. Kneeling down, she lets go of her longsword, and maneuvers herself in between the creature and Appolo. Ashira gently opens Appolo's mouth, and tries to pour the potion down his throat (12 hp restored if succesful).
Ari Friday September 27th, 2002 12:20:24 PM
Realizing that nearly no one else recognized what the metal man has said Ari calls out to Val, "HOLD." Moving over to catch the metal man's eyes, Ari shouts in druidic, "we have recently been received by alemi himself here to the temple • the high priest that was last assigned here has asked us to find an item that we could really use • what have we taken that is yours •"
Bart Friday September 27th, 2002 2:43:51 PM
Bart wants to draw his sword but after Ari yells he only takes it half out of his scabbard. He hopes Ari can talk to the man hoping no fight is necessary it is a strong creature cutting statues in half throwing people like branches
Bulldog Friday September 27th, 2002 9:35:06 PM
As the machine comes to ground, the big fighter seizes his chance to strike the tin man. Lifting his great blade, he rushes to strike this new foe down, but upon hearing his old trusted friend cry out to 'HOLD'. He holds his swing, listening as Ari speaks, awaiting a reply from this metal gearhead.
Machine against the Rage (DM Stephen) d20+4=24 d20+1=5 d20+16=24 d20+8=28 d20+16=18 d6+9=15 d20+11=31 d20+11=16 d6+9=15 d6+9=14 d20+6=23 d4+9=11 d20+8=21 Friday September 27th, 2002 11:49:33 PM
Valanthe brings the wrath and fury of her most primal nature with the strike of a sizzling blue crystaline scythe raking across the back of the machine. It hits with a clash of sparks and ectoplasmic steam. It rips and tears into the metal with ear-piercing squeaking and moaning. (16 points). The machine turns his head completely around to inspect the damage and then on Val. The green glow in his eyes focus into a sharp beam of light.
Akerin's net is flung over the machine. (Entangled, -2 attack, -4 dex. Are you holding the lead rope? ). The machine spins his head back to the front position. On the machines left forearm is a large wooden spiked shield that looks to have been carved from a hollow log. With his eyes stills focused on Akerin, the machine swings back and pummels Valanthe with a bashing shield attack.
(Machine: -2 net, -2 off-hand. Improved Trip attack, touch attack, hit AC: 24, strength check: 28, nat.20 instant success. Val. AC -2 from rage, Hit AC: 18, 31 crit threat, 16 no crit [lucky]. Damage: 15, 14 =29 points of damage to Valanthe.)
Valanthe is knocked to the floor but she remains conscious after a devestating bludgeoning attack. And the wooden shield felt as hard as metal!
The machine's eyes extend to their maximum length as it looks at Akerin. It takes his last ironwood dagger and sends it flying at the bag in Akerin's hand.
(Machine attacking object. Bag AC: 10+ akerin's dex bonus +3, in hand +4, size mod. tiny +2 =19. Hit AC 23, Damage 11 points of damage. Enough to burst the bag!)
The ironwood dagger plows into the bag and its contents spill out. (The machine thinks it holds something bad! Whatever is in it, make the appropriate saves... be honest. :) I know it's not your laundry!!)
Ashira unselfishly dives down at the feet of the machine, where Appolo lies. She feeds Appolo the potion and he heals (12points). Appolo's eyes open once again. (hero point)
The machine stoops down once again and stares Ashira in the face. He then looks at Appolo, then back to Ashira. It continues to mumble and buzz.
Hearing the words of Ari, the machine's head quickly spins around to face him. He then begins to try and walk toward Ari. If Akerin is holding the lead rope, he will begins to strain against the pull of the machine. (Str. check 21. Akerin make an Opposed Strength check DC 21. If you fail, Akerin gets pulled along unless you let go.)
Facing Ari the machine excitedly yells in druidic, "you understand... understand ... alemi sent you to steal from calendrus what he stole from alemi and you steal from me • calendrus steals from me •" "Aaaagghhhh!!" the machine screams with a tortured shriek. (back to druidic) "calendrus keeps me from my love • makes me kill • you make me kill • death is my work and pain is my wage • atone me ... ATONE ME • i can not stop •"
(Party's initiative)
Akerin d20+3=23 d20+2=11 Saturday September 28th, 2002 3:08:09 AM
The tanglefoot bag bursts in Akerin's hand as the ironwood dagger finds its mark, splashing its quick-hardening goo up and down along his whole left side.
Due to the nature of the machine man's attack upon the four-pound bag, Akerin is not held fast to the floor (Reflex save 23 (nat 20)), but finds that the tough and resilient substance hinders his range of movement (-2 penalty to attack rolls and a -4 penalty to effective dexterity).
The construct is too strong for Akerin to control by means of the net (opposed strength check 11), so he elects to let go the rope. Hearing Alemi's name twice, and the word 'calendrus' thrice, the cleric decides that communication is important. He invokes the divine ability to speak and understand languages (comprehend languages), and asks in druidic, "Why do you rage so? Do you not trust in Alemi?" Then in common he adds, "Ari, what has he said?" ---- [OOC: 'Be honest'? Okay, orginally it was his laundry.]
Redux Saturday September 28th, 2002 11:11:05 PM
(previously) Talon is scared by the construct and dives into Redux' robes. Redux is shocked by the display of force by the golem. Sure, Appolo was impetuous, but not enough to be staked to the floor (webbed, maybe, but not staked). He re-thinks his statement about 'getting' the statue, it is more than capable of defense, but doesn't seem to be offensive; that's good. The initial words from the golem were so demanding; he wonder's what their meaning is and hopes that Ari can give them some clues. He's well aware that he'd never survive a counter attack by that thing.
Rigging Saturday September 28th, 2002 11:29:24 PM
Rigging sees Val coming and tries to get in her way. He will only parry if she attacks, and he will say to her, "Val calm down! Ari can talk to it. Help Apollo. Apollo needs you Val." With a quick look to Ari, the young mage adds, "Ari this is your show. Reason with it. We don't want to fight it."
Appolo HP:8 d20+2=9 Sunday September 29th, 2002 6:09:44 PM
Appolo comes to and looks up seeing Ashira says, "Thank you. How are we doing?" He then sits up and looks around. He sees the Machine still standing and Valanthe down. He finds this utterly infuriating -- and to make things worse, Ari and Akerin are trying to talk to it. "What are you guys doing?? Curse ARGH Foul!!" Appolo is furious as he staggers to his feet and walks over to check on Valanthe. He kneels down next to her. "Are you all right?" He then picks her up, or tries to, yet finds that in his present condition, he can't. All the time he keeps an eye on the piece of flying scrap metal, planning its demise. Not being able to pick her up he will drag her out of the way.
Ashira Sunday September 29th, 2002 10:49:17 PM
The half-elf smiles as Appolo makes it to his feet. Moving out of his way, Ashira says. "I'm not sure Appolo...I don't trust that thing, but it looks like it doesn't want to hurt us. The only time it has attacked is when we attacked first. We can't hope to win against it. If Ari and Akerin can find a peaceful way to resolve this, we should let them, because, I, for one don't want to die at that thing's hands."
Redux d20+4=5 d20+4=22 Sunday September 29th, 2002 11:34:22 PM
Redux sends Talon to a safe, high corner of the room and casts invisibility on himself. He then continues to search for some other way out of the room (preferably down). (ooc search=5, hero point, search=22)
Valanthe d20+10=29 d20+4=21 2d4(2+4)+5=11 d6=2 Monday September 30th, 2002 12:02:31 AM
The pain from the blow gets masked from the massive amounts of anger. Val pushes past those in front of her and attacks the creature again. [str check 21] She brings her glowing scythe in an upward slash [hit ac 29 for 13 dmg].
OCC: 1 away from a crit, darn
(DM Stephen - wouldn't have mattered, constructs are immune to critical hits.) :)
Ari Monday September 30th, 2002 11:30:46 AM
Glancing at Akerin Ari says in druidic so that the machine can follow, "It seems the old Emperor has made this machine man kill against his will * He may be protecting the treasure hoard of the Emperor * He asks that he be atoned and he wants to be with his love."
Responding to the machine Ari states in druidic, "Calendrus has been dead for many years * and his palace has been abandoned for the same amount of years * Father Farkus, a spirit now, has tasked us with finding the Fayette bottle * I mean you no harm and ask in Alemi's name how we can help you escape this torture that you endure."
When Val continues her attack Ari apologetically says to the machine man, "My companion has lost all sense of reason. Can you just hold her while we talk? I don't wish either of you to be harmed."
Bart Monday September 30th, 2002 1:43:56 PM
Bart doesn't know what to do. Shall he attack the construct, or must he wait to see if Ari and Akerin can bring the thing to its senses? Anyway, he has his sword ready to attack.
Appolo Monday September 30th, 2002 2:16:40 PM
After Valanthe pushes him to the ground and shoves her way past Rigging atacking the machine. Appolo regroups but is unable to rise, as he listens to Ari and watches the others. He then decides to direct traffic from the floor. In a harsh, cold and loud voice he says, "Ari, tell that thing to fly away, if does so we will help it!! Cough agh Redux -- web Valanthe, it's for her own good. Akerin -- as soon as she is webbed and has calmed somewhat, heal her, she'll need it. cough cough. If the web doesn't work, Bart -- you and Rigging, perhaps Ashira -- tackle her and restrain her!!" It is obvious that he is still quite injured and is exerting himself greatly.
Rigging Monday September 30th, 2002 9:58:28 PM
As Val pushes past him he is amazed at the young elf's strength. He thinks to himself, "Wow this girl has been eating right." On hearing Appolo's suggestions on the web, he concurs and adds his voice, "Redux, Web Val. We need to slow her down!"
Akerin 2d8(6+4)+5=15 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 12:36:59 AM
In common he says to all, though he looks directly at Valanthe, "FOREBEAR, ALL! He asks for help. Our attacks compel his response." Then, switching to druidic, he asks, "What is the need for, and what are the means to your atonement? If this one lays off her attack," and he nods toward Valanthe, "I give her a potion of healing."
If Valanthe backs off from attacking the construct, Akerin offers her a vial [cure moderate wounds, 2d8+5, 15 hp healing]. "This will address some of your wounds, Valanthe."
Deny your Maker (DM Stephen) d100=51 d6=2 d20+16=31 d20+11=24 d6+9=11 d6+9=15 d20+6=20 d20+20=38 d100=85 d6=1 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 1:38:28 AM
"CLANNNGG ...SCREEEECHH!!" rings in everyone's ears from Valanthe's scythe as it slices into the machine. Sparks of psionic energies fly all about (damage 13 points). A repeating squeaking noise can be heard now from the machine.
Suddenly the machine's attention is drawn away from Ari and Akerin. His head once again turns completely around to face the barbarian. While the machine's body is still facing the other way, the torso swings around and slams the spiked shield once again into the raged warrior. After the first follow through, it swings back the other way for another. (Machine: net -2, off-hand -2. Hit AC: 31, 24, both hit. Damage: 11, 15 = 26.)
Valanthe stumbles from the bludgeoning attack. She can feel that she is dying. The only reason she is still up is because of pure adrenaline. (if you calm down from rage, you will collapse unconscious.)
Suddenly the machine's left extends several feet from the arm and reaches out to grab the barbarian. (Grapple touch attack: hit AC 20, grapple check 38. Val needs to make an Opposed Grapple check DC 38. Val roll d20+8, that is your grapple check. You need a natural 20 to break the hold.)
The machine lifts Valanthe up off the ground and holds her strangling in the air. From its right forearm, "SHRREECKKK!!" extends a wickedly curved serrated blade, much like a scimitar. The machine then holds the blade up to her throat.
In druidic yells the machine, "you make me kill • you kill my treasure .... for a bottle • AUUUUGHHH!!!!!" For all who look on in horror, you can see that the machine strains against the death blow. The arm rattles and shakes as the blade gets ever closer to Valanthe's throat.
Redux can see no other exits other than the ones he has already seen.
The wolf that remained quiet suddenly barks with a wagging tail. The machine head spins around to face the wolf who is across the room. Strange sounds come from the machine and the wolf responds favorably and prances over with tail in wag. The wolf grunts and wimpers and then the machine turns his eyes on Ashira and back again to the wolf.
The machine then hears the words of Akerin. Turning its head back around, calmer and more in control it says, "i want atonement for existing • for being a walking abomination • i am a curse • a deep scar • i was denied my death and reincarnation • i want to die, but you can't kill me • i can't let you•" Suddenly the machine's grip loosens and Valanthe drops to the floor.
(Party's Initiative)
Akerin 2d8(7+8)+5=20 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 4:56:37 AM
"He wants atonement for existing, considers himself a cursed abomination, was denied death and reincarnation, wants to die, yet must resist us should we try to kill him," Akerin says simply to the rest of the party. As he talks he walks to Valanthe, taking no offensive action against the machine, and pours his potion of cure moderate wounds (15 hp, see previous post) down Valanthe's throat. If she will not stand still for him to do this, he instead splashes it on her open wounds. "I told them what you ask," he tells the machine. "Thank you for your mercy. What is your name?" he asks, then prepares next to cast cure moderate wounds (20 hp) on Valanthe. He expects Ari to fill the rest of the party in with the rest of the details. And wonders if Ashira understands the exchange between the wolf and the metal man. He is too busy.
Valanthe d20+8=14 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 1:58:01 PM
As strong as she is, the machine is that much stronger. She pulls on the hand to no effect. The adrenaline coursing through her system begins to fade. Val can feel the darkness approaching. Suddenly she falls to the floor. Unable to rise she rolls onto her back and closes her eyes. Just when she thought it was all over, a liquid forced its way down her throat. Strength flowed, pushing the darkness away. Her eyes open as Akerin casts his spell. "Thank you." she mutters. She pushes herself into a sitting position. "What just happened?" As she sits there her head begins to clear. Her hand touches her tender cheek and she winces in pain. "Now I remember, wooden shield that feels like steel, bouncing off the side of my head. If the machine wants to die I might have a way to do it. It's clear that he was mortal once and his mind was put into the machine. I might be able to overload his neural pathways rendering him immobile for a moment or two. I think I have enough strength to do that twice. It's risky because we don't know if the machine will continue to act. The only other thing I can think of is to drop part of the ceiling on this thing."
Bart Tuesday October 1st, 2002 6:35:30 PM
"Akerin -- can't you undo his curse?" Bart asks. "By the way, if you need healing potions, I still have some."
Appolo Tuesday October 1st, 2002 8:17:10 PM
Appolo watches the thing nearly kill Valanthe and then drop her. He staggers quickly to his feet then rushes to her side as Akerin heals her. When she opens her eyes and speaks, Appolo is greatly relieved and drops to his knees. He then starts hugging her. "I'm so glad you're alive. Don't worry about that thing, I have plans for it."
Bulldog Tuesday October 1st, 2002 8:40:02 PM
Stepping back from the Tin Man as an explanation of its purpose is translated by the druids, Bulldog sheathes his great weapon. Feeling a bit out of place, he watches those about him comfort each other.
Bulldog speaks up after some continue to look for forceful ways to deal with the abomination. "Fighting isn't the answer to the tin man. That's his strength. I think the druids should find out more of this curse, so we could find a loop hole in or a way to end it. He is more than able to fight, but he wants much more to solve the puzzle of his freedom."
Rigging Tuesday October 1st, 2002 8:44:50 PM
Rigging takes everything in and says to Appolo, "Appolo help Val to the wall and see to her." In a stern voice he will say, "No one will attack again. We can not afford to provoke our metal friend again."
Rigging notices the action of the wolf and says to Ashira, "What is that about?" He calls out to Ari, "Ask your new friend about his relationship with the wolf, who was also protecting the palace and maybe the wolf's master. Do they know each other?"
Redux (Invisible) Tuesday October 1st, 2002 11:33:13 PM
Redux calls out to the group to ask the machine if it will allow them to search without being attacked. He then goes over to the throne and sits down. Using his empathetic link with Talon, he asks his friend to try to communicate with the golem, just to try to figure out how much communication they are able to have with this created thing, "Do you understand any of what this metal man has said, especially to the wolf?"
Ashira Tuesday October 1st, 2002 11:44:27 PM
Ashira watches on with horror as the machine almost murders Val. Feeling helpless, the warrior sighs with relief as Val regains consciousness, but is filled with dread and anger. Thoughts flood her mind. Perhaps we are destined to fail on our quest. That abomination is more than just a worthy opponent, it's nigh on undefeatable. Perhaps if we all attacked it at once, we might have a chance of destroying it, but at very high cost. The half-elf watches the exchange between the Tin man and the wolf with curiosity. Then, it is almost as if a light goes off in her head. "Oh shades! That thing has the soul of a wolf. Ari, ask him if he and the wolf are pack mates. And ask him who his love is." Ashira stoops over and retrieves her long and short swords, wanting to be useful in case they do decide to dispatch the creature.
Andruid4.0 (DM Stephen) d100=21 d20+13=23 d20+22=27 d6+11=14 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 1:16:48 AM
Hearing the words of Akerin, the machine answers in druidic. "i am called andruid 4 • but i was once called • dain the tracker of clan eales." Just like before when in the form of a statue, his shape begins to change. Now standing before you is the visage of a man in druid robes. He looks upon you all with such painful sorrow frozen in his face. "i was once a druid of the land. i was to plead with the emperor to stop claiming so much land for his personal use • calandrus carved and molded the land for his own need • caring little for the wildlife and people who lived there • he had me slain with a dagger that stole my soul • he then placed me in.....AAAUGGHHHHHH!!"
(Fits of Rage: rolled 21%, threat, Will save DC 20. Rolled 23 [lucky] no rage)
The machine grabs at his head and whails in tortured agony. He quickly reverts back to the machine. He begins to rip and tear at the net with his sword and his might. (damage 14 points) The net gets torn to shreds. "AAAUUGGGHH...• HE ... HE PUT ME IN THIS METAL SHELL •... HE IMPRISIONED MEE ... HE STOLE MY LIFE • HE DENIED ME MY DEATH AND REBIRTH • I AM FOREVER SEVERED FROM MY LOVE ... MY TREASURE •"
Only with pure force of will power can he put a strangle hold on his madness and rage. "his cruelty had no limits • with dark magics, he forced upon me to do his bidding • i became his enforcer to patrol the land i so desperately tried to save • i hunted poachers and drove my own people from our homes • (sobbing) i could do nothing to stop myself •"
The wolf sits down next to the andruid. While the wolf affectionate leans against the construct, he reaches down and gently pets the wolf. The andruid mutters, "my treasure •"
Akerin heals Valanthe for 35 points. (Val now has 32 hit points)
When Redux sits down on the throne, he grabs the attention of the Andruid. Even though Redux is invisible, the Andruid says (in druidic) "are you the new emperor •"
(party's initiative)
Talon (dm stephen) Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 2:02:20 AM
Talon wings it over to a statue near the andruid. He lands on the head. Talon studies the machine with caution. His head bobbs up and down and side to side. The andruid turns his head toward the familiar and says in the native language of the owl. (In owl) "hello little one • what is your name • are you their friend •"
Talon's eyes widen with surprise. He doesn't remember the last time someone other than owls speaking owl!!!! Talon says, "um ... my name is Talon. Yes, these are my friends!!" Looking left and right, he tries to figure out what else to say ... "There are lots of tasty mice around here, isn't there!!"
(Ken, you may post for Talon if you wish. You may ask questions now. 50 exp.)
Akerin, serving as interpreter d20=13 d8+3=10 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 2:10:36 AM
As Andruid 4/Dain tells of his nomenclature, and gives his name, Akerin tells him, 'I shall interpret for my friends. I am Akerin.' He then says, in the common tongue, "He says he is called Andruid four, but once was Dain the tracker of Clan Eales." As Andruid changes his form, he moves to simultaneous interpretation. "I was once a druid of the land. I was to plead with the emperor to stop claiming so much land for his personal use. Calandrus carved and molded the land for his own need, caring little for the wildlife and people who lived there. He had me slain with a dagger that stole my soul. He then placed me in..."
Akerin signals his friends with his hands, perhaps unnecessarily, to step back as the machine man shouts in agony of soul. He fits his interpretation in the pauses the druid takes. "He... put me in this metal shell, imprisoned me, stole my life. He denied me my death and rebirth. I am forever severed me from my love. My treasure."
As the machine pauses, Akerin catches up fully. "Bart - give her one of your potions." As he says 'potions,' Andruid resumes.
"Uh, no limits - cruelty had no limits. With dark magics, he forced upon me to do his bidding. I became his enforcer to patrol the land I so desperately tried to save. I hunted poachers and drove my own people from our homes... I could do nothing to stop myself."
As Dain sits down, and pets the wolf, Akerin looks around at his new companions, gauging their responses. 'Healing,' he says in druidic, then tosses a potion of cure light wounds to Appolo. "Drink it." [Cures 10 hp.]
"'My treasure,' he says again." Then the healer looks in the direction of Dain's glance, and repeats the question in common. "Are you the new emperor?"
Seeing no one on the throne, he looks around, puzzled. [Spot, DC 16]
Inwardly he prays, 'Alemi, grant your healing and release to the soul of this man, Dain, and grant us your grace to serve as instruments of your will.'
Then, as he speaks to the owl, Akerin smiles. "He asks after the owl. Talon likes mice."
He waits a moment for the owlish conversation to conclude, then asks, 'Andruid, or Dain -- these other statues. Can you tell us of them?'
Ari Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 9:18:45 AM
Pulling out the dagger that Ari had been studying earlier, Ari asks, "Was it you that dropped this dagger amongst our group? Does this dagger mean anything specifically?"
ooc sorry for missing post. I thought I had posted yesterday.
Akerin Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 2:49:38 PM
Seeing Appolo's dagger in Ari's hands, and recalling the words of Dain, Akerin adds, 'The wolves are your treasure. The birds and the beasts are your treasure. The plants and trees are your treasure. And Calendrus' curse has separated you from your treasure. Is this not so?' Akerin asks.
Bart Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 6:03:17 PM
Bart keeps an eye on the druid but also looks around in the room. He checks Apollo and Val to see if they are all right. "Do you need an healing potion?" he asks the both of them.
Rigging Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 10:25:39 PM
Rigging relaxes a little as the big metal man seems to relax. "Akerin, please translate for me." Rigging faces the metal monster ands says, "Dain...for that is your true name, not a title an evil emperor long dead gave you. We wish to help you. You have been standing guard over a deserted city for thousands of years. The Gods punished the emperor for his arrogance and evil long ago. We have only recently rediscovered the city. We are still battling the evil your emperor promoted. He is a cult god named Ga'al who enslaves his worshippers and has no respect for life or free will.
"We are on a mission to find the Faybelle Bottle which is reputed to be locked in the old emperor's treasure vault. This bottle will allow us to carry the blessing of Alemi to the people. It can destroy the heartseed. The heartseeds are implanted into all teenagers when they reach adolescence. It takes away their free will and makes them slaves to Ga'al."
Rigging opens his arms wide and asks, "Dain can you help us? Do you know where the vault is? The dagger that enslaved you might be there as well, and we can free you from your unjust imprisonment. I grieve for you this injustice. I understand it. Ga'al imprisons all of our people in the same way."
Redux Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 11:44:48 PM
Redux ponders a moment on his new ability to speak with this, this...tortured soul. It's easy to feel pity towards him. The former emperor was, indeed, a cruel and evil man. Answering for himself and prompting Talon to relay the message (ooc unless Andruid understands directly, then so much the better), he begins, "I am Alreduxar of Aisildur. Yes, I am the emperor, newly reborn in this land by the healing waters of Alemi from a fountain on the far side of the city. Gone are the days of Calendrus; undoubtedly you witnessed his destruction. My General, Rigging, has called down the fighters; you will not be attacked again. He has told you what we seek and why. Will you stand down, also? Will you aid in our search?"
Ashira Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 11:50:56 PM
The half-elf's jaw drops as Dain tells his story. "Calendrus, you spawn of Ga'al!" she mutters to herself. Feeling out of her element, Ashira backs up to where Val and Appolo are....making sure they are well, asking if they need further healing, and most importantly, making sure that they are able to fight the machine if it becomes necessary.
Akerin interprets more Thursday October 3rd, 2002 12:37:54 AM
Akerin interprets faithfully for Rigging. But on the phrase, "and we can free you from your unjust imprisonment," he tells Rigging, "Don't promise what you are not sure of delivering. I shall tell him we will work to free him." He interprets that as, 'and if the means are available to us, we will do what we can this day to effect your freedom from the curse, should the gods allow.'
And rather than "the same way," Akerin renders that 'a similar way'.
Akerin translates Redux' first sentence. But when he calls himself emperor, Akerin tells him, "I shall not translate ... what you claim. If Ari wishes to, that is his decision." Akerin tells Dain, 'I have a problem with some of the interpretation. Give me a moment for clarification, Dain.' Because he indeed has problems with interpreting such.
Appolo Thursday October 3rd, 2002 12:47:44 AM
Appolo guides Valanthe back toward the other room - the one with the bar. He gratefully accepts the potions from Bart and Akerin as he heads out of the throne room, drinking one potion and handing the other to Valanthe. "Come into the other room with me and let's get some rest. Then we shall prepare to destroy that thing. We'll need oil, alcohol, and bottles."
When Ashira come over to check on them he says, "I think we'll be okay, but we'll need your help. I have a plan. Why don't you join us?" He then walks into the bar.
Talon (dm stephen) d20+2=19 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 12:50:35 AM
Talon's eyes widen when Redux mentions being emperor. (Wisdom check 19) Talon then tells Redux, "Nuh uah!! YOU tell him you're emperor." Talons then takes to the air and flies up to a second floor balcony. Talon explains to the Andruid, "i think i smell a rat!!" Talon then steps behind a pillar and peeks out to watch whatever happens.
Tick Tock strikes the Clock (DM Stephen) d100=2 d6=4 (not good!!) Thursday October 3rd, 2002 2:08:35 AM
The andruid changes back to a human form, the form he had in life. The man Dain stares back at Ari and answers. "yes, it was I who threw down the dagger • it is one of your friend's daggers • i retrieved it from the side of an injured wolf • my message was meant to be a warning ... it was the first two lines of a poem i wrote:
I watch the land • hastening ills for my prey • where treasures accumulate and men decay • emperors may flourish or may fade • a breath can make them • as a breath has made • but a bold peasantry • their country's pride • where once destroyed • can never revive •"
Listening to Akerin's revelations, Dain confirms what the priest says. "yes ... my love is the land • the plants and animals • the living energies of the wold itself • you have no way of knowing how it feels to watch the seasons pass as an outsider • to walk on the soft grass below your feet • to feel the cold, wet rain from a oncoming storm • to taste the fruit that ripens on the vine • to smell the blossums of spring • to pet the silky fur of a newborn wolf pup •" Dain's head bows in sadness. A tear would certainly fall from his eyes if he had tears to shed.
Dain listens to Akerin's "revised" translation of Rigging's speech. Dain puts his hand to his chest, above where his heart should be, and gives a bow. "i more than understand your plight • i will help anyway I can • my function is to look after the surrounding lands, not the palace • i am not warded from this place • so there are no conditions that can prevent me."
Dain listens to the others speak a language that he has long forgotten, even the invisible man's. But he doesn't try to respond. Dain nods to Akerin as he thinks about translating other comments.
"Tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick tick," suddenly begins to echo through the halls. Dain's expression goes from sorrow to very serious!! "ATTENTION ... i am not the only one like me in the area • the palace also has its own guardians • AUTOMATONS • they are mindless ones used for construction and war • they are not strong but they are many • they must have heard us fight • PREPARE FOR BATTLE • THEY ARE UPON US AND WISH TO HARM MY TREASURE!!
The ticking gets louder and louder ... from the east and west. Hundreds of metal feet can be heard clicking against the stone floors.
Dain's expression becomes most fierce. A dazzling transformation begins to take place. The metal of his body looks to become almost liquid in consistency. Dain grows larger and larger. He forms claws, long sharp teeth and fangs and a tail. He now stands up to 8 to 9-ft tall and 15-ft long. A metalic dire tiger now stands before you. The andruid faces the west doorway and crouches down ... ready to pounce!!!
(Party's Initiative)
Rigging d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 8:26:13 AM
Rigging calls to his family, "Everyone to me! Form a circle. Akerin in the middle. If anyone gets hurt, you can pull them inside and help them. Bart and Bulldog come here." Rigging will chant a few words and flex some muscles. Bart feels himself getting stronger. (cast bullstrength spell +5 on Barts strength for 3 hours) If Rigging has time, he will cast another on Bulldog (+4 strength for 3 hours)
Ashira Thursday October 3rd, 2002 8:57:24 AM
Hearing Rigging's order, Ashira sprints back to the others. She takes her place at the right side of Rigging, drawing her swords. "You know, it might be a good idea to have Redux in the center too. As much as I like the guy, he isn't gonna be that useful with that puny little dagger he has. Besides, that way he could cast his spells in safety." Ashira calls to the wolf, hoping that it will choose the safety of her companions, rather than risk death by the constructs.
Appolo 18 HP Thursday October 3rd, 2002 11:02:52 AM
Upon hearing what sounds like dozens of creatures coming down the hallway, Appolo quickly closes and bars all the doors except the one leading back to the throne room. He looks in the throne room and sees what everyone is doing and yells, "Close and block the doors. Don't let them in, this ain't going to the family's last stand. And have our new friend there help move those statues around." He then heads for the bar gathering bottles of wine and liquor. Begins emptying them so they're about half full. He then yells, "I need some oil and cloth." He looks around, finds a tapestry and begins cutting it up into strips.
Bart, bullstrength, ac 20 d20+6=17 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 2:18:57 PM
Bart stands near Rigging, he feels himself as strong as a giant. He hands 2 other potions of cure moderate to Akerin, saying, "Use them well my friend." If there is time Bart will help Appolo with blocking some doors (strength check 17).
Ari Thursday October 3rd, 2002 2:55:11 PM
Ari considers Dain's words about the local area and wonders whether Dain will ever be able to go back to doing what he wants to do. I wonder if I should consider helping him out, or taking over for him.
Ari considers Redux's words about being the emperor. It is a good idea about pretending to be the emperor in order to get Dain's help. But considering that this temple is for Alemi, and not Ga'al, there cannot be any deception about what the group is trying to do. Ari decides to not translate anything other than what Akerin has already translated.
When Dain tells the group of the impending danger Ari comes up with some quick questions. Would these automatans be coming to fight, or to investigate? If we were to hide can you send them away? Are there any other passageways that we as a group might be able to use in order to get closer to other friends that might be able to help, or maybe a better place that we could defend ourselves from?
Looking at Akerin, Ari asks, "Should we not make him whole from our own attacks against him?"
Then to his friends Ari states, "I'm asking some quick questions to see if we have any other alternatives."
If there is time Ari will cast shield on himself and then prepare his weapons. If he can get a second spell off prior to anyone entering, Ari wants to use flare on the first body through the door in order to block the doorway with the first enemy, if the group doesn't do anything else.
Valanthe 32hp Thursday October 3rd, 2002 4:36:17 PM
If a battle was to come, at least she was able to rest after the first one. Grabbing her scythe she turns to Appolo, "Be careful." Looking down at the crystal weapon and mutters the command word. The psionic energy appears in the center and courses outward coating the scythe. Her strong fingers spin the scythe briefly before snapping it still. She walks back over to the group and up to the front line. If there was going to be a battle, she wanted to be in the front.
Akerin d8+5=7 d8+5=6 d8+5=6 d8+5=13 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 6:55:27 PM
Akerin, after translating Dain's urgent warnings, does as Rigging commands, coming into the center of the gathering. He twice casts cure light wounds on Valanthe, for 7+13=20 hp healing. He reaches for the two potions from Bart, cocking his head to the side when Bart calls him friend. He smiles and nods acceptance. He answers Ari in druidic, 'My sphere of healing covers flesh, not metal, Ari. Perhaps his changing of shape will effect a measure of self-healing, nevertheless.' He next casts sanctuary on himself - hoping that will allow him some freedom of movement to aid his companions in the midst of combat.
Bulldog Thursday October 3rd, 2002 7:33:57 PM
The big fighter moves to Rigging, drawing forth his greatsword. "I'll take the point postion," he says as he turns to face the coming army. Drawing the weapon into readiness. "How many did he say where coming?" not asking anyone. Bulldog's adrenaline surges as he waits for battle to begin.
Redux (invisible) Thursday October 3rd, 2002 10:51:35 PM
Redux readies himself for the coming onslaught by casting Mage Armor on himself. Next he will cast Mage Hand to ready Chill Touch to be delivered to whatever foe presents itself. "Talon, stay safe. Ashira, don't get separated from the group, I don't want to burn you to burn them."
A Little Scrap!! (DM Stephen) d20+21=29 2d6(3+6)+9=18 d20+13=21 d20+13=23 d20+13=30 d20+13=24 2d4(2+2)+9=13 2d4(4+3)+9=16 2d4(4+4)+9=17 2d4(4+3)+9=16 d20=6 d20=10 d20=11 d20=4 d20=3 d20=17 d20+13=33 d20+13=26 d20+10=13 d20+10=18 d20+10=23 d20+10=30 2d8(7+4)+10=21 2d8(8+6)+10=24 d8=7 d8=4 d20=7 d20=11 d8=1 d6=6 d6=5 d20=6 d20=8 d20=4 d20=19 d20=10 d20=20 d20=3 d100=36 d20=12 Friday October 4th, 2002 1:42:15 AM
As the party gathers for the oncoming horde of Automatons, the huge metal cat growls a low deep growl in anticipation. Everyone can hear them getting closer. The vibrations of their feet can be felt by all. There is no time to make fire bombs or bar the doors, they are already upon you.
On the west wall ... the double doors ... BAAAMMM CRASH SMASH!!! .. are reduced to splinters. Before you can be seen a dozen or so constructs, two different types. One type of construct (Hammerer) is somewhat egg-shaped and stand about 5-ft tall. It has a large hammer for a right arm and a crab-like claw on the left arm. Its clumsily walks on two legs and is very slow. However, one Hammerer is over 8-ft tall.
The other type of Automaton is a short and squat construct (Pulverizer) that looks much like a lobster. It crawls on 6 legs and has two spiked cone-shaped wedges where claws would normally be. There is a hole were the head should be and it funnels into the body (looks like a cannon from the front).They stand no more than 4-ft tall and move rather fast. Infact, they scurry around the slower and larger Hammerers. All the constructs are covered in glowing runes.
As soon as the constructs break through the doors, the huge metal cat leaps into action. The andruid pounces upon the larger Hammerer and latches on with a vicious bite that rips the tears into the egg-shaped construct (Hit AC 29, 18 dmg). All four claws start to rake and cleave into the constuct (Hit AC 21, 23, 30, 24. Damage: 13, 16, 17, 16 = 62 dmg). The larger Hammerer is shredded to pieces. Parts of it is slung all about in the carnage.
Six Pulverizers charge past the wreckage and turns to fire on the Andruid. Suddenly four of the six halt and the runes stop glowing. The other two continue to attack and they blast the Andruid with a sonic attack. The air ripples with waves of distortion as the blasts, streaming from the pulverizers head, pound into the metal cat. The Andruid recoils from the attack. The stone work on the floor and wall around the blast area becomes riddled with cracks.
Four regular-sized Hammrers slam into the Andruid with their massive hammers. Two hit leaving huge dents in the cat's hide. More automatons can be seen making their way behind the front line. Andruid begins to change back into his "natural contruct" form. Odd ... this time his spiked shield is replaced with a thick quarterstaff accented with sharp thorns covering both ends. He twirls it like a master.
BAMMM!! ... two more pulverizers jump down from the second floor balcony right next to the party. One stops running and goes quiet, but the other continues to attack. Everyone is hit with a cone of sound. Your teeth chatter with vibrations.
(Everyone takes 1 point of damage, lucky!! Everyone make a Fort. save DC 12 or become stunned for 1 round. Being Stunned: you can take no action other than half movement with no Dex to AC. Appolo may still be in the Bar, so he remains unharmed.)
A clumsy Hammerer from the second floor falls through the balcony and lands on the floor 15-ft away. It appears damaged. It too stops functioning!!
From the east doorway (the banquet hall) comes four more Pulverizers and three Hammerers bringing up the rear. (The closest one is 60-ft away.) Three pulverizers and one hammerer stop in their tracks!?
In the bar, a section of the ceiling begins to crumble into little pieces. Then suddenly a pulverizer falls through and lands 10-ft away from Appolo. It continues to advance. It steps on a few paintings in the process.
(Party's Initiative. Put your AC and HP, plus any spell effect that is active in your name line. Will try and have a map by tomorrow night. I hope the combat for this round is clear enough. :)
Appolo 18 HP Ac 20 Friday October 4th, 2002 11:54:18 AM
Appolo curses, thinking I'm in no condition to be doing this. He then hurls everything he has at the construct including his torch lighting it on fire. Then he makes a break for it, sprinting to join the others. "I think we need an exit,rather quickly!!" He moves and fights defensively, doing his best to stay away from the monsters.
Bart HP 45 AC 20, bull's strenght d20+4=18 d20+14=26 d20+8=19 d12+12=18 d12+12=24 d10+12=13 d10+12=19 Friday October 4th, 2002 2:55:30 PM
Bart attacks the pulverizer in front of him, he use his sword in both hands and slashes it onto the construct (ac 26/19 for 13+19 dam) OOC ignore d12 rolls
Valanthe d20+7=24 d20+8=9 Friday October 4th, 2002 6:44:40 PM
Valanthe takes a step back as the two pulverisers land. The sound washes over her but she expected more from the weak attack [fort save 24]. She slashes at the thing with her scythe but comes up short.
Bulldog - AC 14 - htpts 54 d20=7 d20=6 2d6(4+2)+10=16 Friday October 4th, 2002 8:59:17 PM
Seeing Appolo retreat from the machine, Bulldog moves over and with a mighty swing slices into the metal bug. The fighter growls with satisfaction at the blow. "Next!"
(order of rolls, save +7, to hit +10, dam)
(DM Stephen - Actually your damage bonus to your weapon is +9, not +10. You get +6 for your Strength bonus and holding the weapon with two hands, +1 weapon enhancement, and +2 for Weapon Specialization = +9. So your total damage is 15.)
DM Stephen Saturday October 5th, 2002 1:49:30 PM
(Where is everyones posts? )
Rigging d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Saturday October 5th, 2002 1:59:24 PM
Rigging decides that his rapier and dagger aren't the best weapons against metal men that chew up rock. He decides to stay with magic for now and launches 2 magic missiles at the Pulvarizer that is 25' due west from him.
Redux-Mage Armor(AC=19, HP=24) d20+3=4 d20+3=20 5d6(2+4+3+3+5)=17 d20+6=16 Saturday October 5th, 2002 4:01:53 PM
(ooc Redux uses a hero point to re-roll the fort and saves with a 20. ) Redux steps up the dais and sends his (newly learned) fireball above Andruid to the west door before it detonates for 17 pts of damage (should be far enough away from Andruid and still affect those near him plus whatever is down the hall). He then takes a moment to observe the runes (spellcraft check=16) to try to tell what they mean. Pointing out his observation to everyone he adds "... there's more of the slow ones than the fast ones with the sonic attack. Let's spread out a little more so that we all don't take damage from one sonic attack."
Ashira (AC=18, HP=69) d20+10=12 d20+10=13 d8+4=12 Saturday October 5th, 2002 4:19:39 PM
Ashira is undazed by the sonic attack (Fort=12). Seeing the logic in Redux's idea, Ashira moves forward to engage the pulveriser that Rigging tagged with his magic missiles (Hitting AC 13 for 12 points).
Rigging d20+4=22 Saturday October 5th, 2002 11:30:47 PM
OCC sorry forgot to make fort check. Made no problem
Ari (-1 hp) d20+7=21 d4+1=2 Monday October 7th, 2002 3:54:57 AM
Finding the sound more annoying than any real problem, Ari stares in fascination at all the automatons. Ari begins to wonder what it is that animates these creations.
Coming out of his reverie, Ari realizes these are a threat to the family. Thinking quickly, Ari releases a magic missile towards the nearest automaton to the family. (2 points)
Akerin (Sanctuary; AC 19; HP 43) 2d8(2+1)+5=8 d8=2 Monday October 7th, 2002 6:30:00 AM
Akerin unstoppers one of the potions of cure moderate wounds given him by Bart, and steps over to Appolo. "Drink this." Should he do so, he regains 9 hp. [worst rolls possible :-(]
He looks about, alert to opportunities to aid his comrades on this quest.
[OOC: Cool artwork, Stephen!]
(DM Stephen - the map is mine, the art is not :( I scanned it from the MM2)
DM Stephen Monday October 7th, 2002 7:48:57 AM
(ooc: I was unable to do Friday's post this weekend. Will have a new post by this evening. happy slayings :)
Akerin's Fort save (Sanctuary; AC 19; HP 42) d20+9=24 Monday October 7th, 2002 1:35:51 PM
Akerin manages to avoid being stunned by the sonic vibrations [Fort save 24].
Appolo 27 hp AC 20 Monday October 7th, 2002 8:05:53 PM
Appolo accepts the potion from Akerin. "Thanks, I needed that." He then looks around. "Behind the throne there's a doorway leading out. Hurry let's go. Everyone move in that direction."
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