From the Floating City to the Scab (DM Kim) Thursday March 20th, 2003 3:28:59 AM
Woodcock, occasionally letting his impatience show through, actually looks pleased once everyone has gathered close together on the teleportation platform. He moves his arms, utters a phrase, and - blackness, and a feeling of being absolutely alone - then whiteness, broken up by four standing stones, from eight to twelve feet tall, surrounding an area with drifts of snow.
In the time it takes to get some sense of orientation, the hairs of the nose freeze.
The sky is a field of blue, with white, wispy fingers of clouds forming a scattered veil. Off in the distance, thick clouds are stacked. With the sun getting low in the West - those clouds must be to the south.
The party stands on a low plateau in the middle of a mountain range.
Those who had earlier taken a good look at the map from Hororot's tomb are shortly able to identify the mountain peak that they were told the dragon inhabits. It looks to be - well, hard to tell, exactly - maybe 12 or 15 miles away, as the crow flies. Perhaps a tad more.
As he notices some of the party staring toward the mountain, Woodcock comments, "If you head that direction, you have a hike down about a mile - with a loss of maybe eight hundred feet altitude. There's the valley to cross. But, you see that, there?" he asks, pointing toward five good-sized fuzzy-looking soft structures, maybe four or five miles away. "Frost Giant tents. Likely a hunting party. They see something moving - they hunt it. Now, the valley is the straightest path to yonder mountain. But, if you want to avoid the giants," he shrugs his shoulders, and waves to the right, indicating a string of mountains in that direction, "I'm sure you'd find something interesting tromping along the foot of those mountains. Or, something interesting would find you."
Woodcock asks an important question (DM Kim) Thursday March 20th, 2003 4:15:04 AM
"Now, when shall I return for you? And, so you know, it's three days at the earliest. Anytime after then should be convenient. What day, what time?"
He points up to a little hill off to the left, where some rocks look jumbled about. "I have a little cave over there I can wait at and watch, around the time you return. If you get back before I do, well, if you use two knock spells, that should get you in just fine," he says with a smile. Frost is beginning to form on his eyebrows. "Don't touch anything in there that is red, is all I ask. And don't be sloppy, if you need to stay there. If you don't return at the agreed-upon time, I'll leave a message as to when I can return again. And it will cost another 600 gold pieces, above the 300 each way already, if I have to take the extra trip."
It's cold (DM Kim) Thursday March 20th, 2003 4:44:31 AM
It is fairly cold out. Right now, about 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-15 degrees Celsius).
If you did not state that your character was getting dressed for the cold - you definitely feel the cold.
In Bill's list of equipment were two halfling-sized sets of clothing, one of which he is wearing. He has sleeping bags, firewood, and such. But he does not have a set of cold-weather clothing for anyone of a larger size than himself. Would you want to cut some arm and leg holes in a sleeping bag, to help keep yourself warm?
The sun will set in about an hour and a half.
Bill Troublefinder Thursday March 20th, 2003 4:54:20 AM
"Thank you, Mr. Woodcock. Maybe three days would be just right," Bill says. "What do you think, guys? How about you, Rond? Let me tell you why I'm thinking that. See, we could fly quite a ways. Hobbes, you can help some of us fly, can't you? So can I. I could help all of us fly. Some of us can get in the sleeping bags, to help keep warm, and we can make a big loop of rope, to keep us together, and fly. We can cover 15-1/3 miles in an hour and a half. Maybe we can fly over to the mountain, and find a place to sleep for the night and keep warm. Then in the morning, climb up, do some scouting around, and figure out what to do from there."
JK Thursday March 20th, 2003 2:32:24 PM
[I'm back. It's going to take me a little while to catch up with the reading, but I'll do the DM post shortly. Thanks for standing in, Kim. -jk]
JK Thursday March 20th, 2003 3:28:57 PM
[Looks like I don't need to post right now. I'll pick up in the morning.
It also looks like our posting discipline is starting to slip in different directions. 1 post per day. Not more. Not less.]
Rond Thursday March 20th, 2003 3:38:11 PM
"I agree about the three days."
Responding to Bill's comments, "I'm not sure if we want to move out right away or not. We don't know whether he's out flying now and might spot us. Or whether we want to sit and watch for him, or move in right away. What do you others say?"
Renik Thursday March 20th, 2003 6:54:03 PM
Stamping his feet against the cold, in spite of his thick winter clothing, Renik says "I vote we move. It's too blessed cold to stand around here for too long. And we need to find this thing and catch it in its lair. If it gets us out here on open ground we're history. Now I'd say we're going to be pretty visible no matter what we do, but flying is going to attract us attention from miles around. I say we follow the path to the right. It's not the easiest route, but it will keep us away from those giants."
He rubs his gloved hands together and hugs himself, as he starts to lose feeling in his nose.
Draax Thursday March 20th, 2003 8:38:16 PM
Draax scans the group's surroundings and then looks toward their destination as if he expected to see the dragon from their current location. Turning his attention back to the group he adds his comments to the conversation. "Flying does seem like less of a hassle, but Rond's and Renik's comments do make sense. Unless we could conceal ourselves while flying we would be sitting ducks. And if we are going to walk we might want to extend our estimated return time. It will probably take us a day to walk there even if we didn't have to try and avoid any creatures. And we have no idea what we will find when we get there."
He waits to hear what is decided as he continues to scan the area, not affected at all from the cold weather.
Feng Thursday March 20th, 2003 9:59:16 PM
Feng draws his double axe and utters the command word causing fire to erupt. It was risky lighting the flame with Giants close, but it was just too cold. The fire may be magical but it provides warmth.
"I don't like this but I believe the Giants may be worth investigating. It is more than likely that we will have to deal with at some point in the near future."
Hobbes Friday March 21st, 2003 4:51:46 AM
Hobbes dons his large woolen robes overtop his armor. "There, that's better."
Reacting to the flying question, "I don't think expending some of my most powerful spells on flying is a wise idea seeing as how we might be able to get there without it. I'd rather only do that in an emergency. Ermmm...." He looks around the group, "What of the possibility of retrieving the items without battling the dragon? Is that a notion? or are we playing it by ear?" He pauses, "Renik, you're the stealthiest among us, do you think that is even possible?"
Brrrr (DMJK) Friday March 21st, 2003 9:07:27 AM
Woodcock looks a bit annoyed that the return isn't the subject of a larger discussion, but he doesn't quibble about it. He nods his head and says "I'll be back just before nightfall in 3 days then. If you aren't here, I'll spend the night in my cave and wait until the morning. If you aren't here in the morning, I'll try back just before nightfall on the 5th day. I'll wait the night again, and if you aren't back that time, I'll say a prayer for you."
Then he casts a spell and is gone.
The group stands around debating the best course to take.
Flying seems to be out of the question, and the group starts moving because both paths start out the same way.
The path on the right seems to be the most favored, but the terrain there will be the most difficult. With all the ice and freezing temperatures, it might be as dangerous as sneaking by the giants.
Attempting to sneak past the giants doesn't seem to be out of the question. The path is easier, and the giants might not be down there right now anyway. Of course, they could be, and five giant tents means at least five giants. It could mean ten or fifteen though.
Bill, Renik, and Hobbes feel the chill through their winter clothing, but it's still an unpleasant environment. Feng lights up his axe, and it provides a little warmth provided that he holds the blade relatively close to himself. He can tell right away that it isn't going to be enough to allow him to walk all the way. He needs some heavy clothes or at least a blanket to stop some of that vicious wind. Draax's ring of warmth keeps the chill away completely. He can tell that it is cold, but it's a mental reaction and not a physical one. Too bad that ring won't make the ice less slippery. Arien drags behind in his cold weather gear.
It will be nightfall in about two hours. The group will need to also be thinking about what to do then. The path to the right might provide some shelter. The open path where the giants are camped looks like a good place to pitch a tent, but there aren't any caves or anything.
Bill Troublefinder Saturday March 22nd, 2003 12:39:10 PM Some quick orientation Bill uses his powers to know direction ('You know which way is north') and know location ('You generally know where you are'), to psionically gain a more solid fix on his physical bearings.
On the mode of transportation "Flying is not out of the question," Bill says. "We just fly low to the ground. If we fly a couple feet off the ground, how is that going to make us a greater target? We don't have to fly hundreds of feet up, where we can be seen for miles around. Also, we could walk until it gets dark, then fly. And, if we want to take on the frost giants, can you imagine many better advantages than us being able to fly? Hobbes, don't waste your spells, then. I can do it for all of us.
"I have already used up a fair amount of the level of power I can use each day. No way do I want to face the dragon before I can regain some power. But, rather than us walking for hours, and getting cold and wet, why not fly for an hour and a half, and cover more ground than we could in a whole day of walking on these slippery paths? Besides, the snow is up to my chin in places.
"Also, if we plan to skirt the valley, avoiding the somewhat known factor of the giants, what unknown things might we face along the foot of the mountains, walking? Flying along that path could work, too, and give us an advantage should we be attacked. We can flee what cannot fly, or use our flight to our advantage in besting our foe.
"The less time it takes us to get to the dragon, the less opportunity the dragon will have to learn of our presence, and prepare. I wonder if the frost giants and the white have any sort of alliance?
"I suggest - let's walk until darkness. Then fly, and draw close to the lair. Camp out, and, in the early morning, take what steps we next need take."
A portable hole respiration experiment "Guys, there's something else. I've got this portable hole I told you about. Well, I wanted to check and see whether someone could be inside it, and have it mostly closed, but with a breathing pipe just poking out of it. Could someone try it? Or, I could try it. I'd have to take my outer pants off, but that's okay, I've got the warm ones underneath. Did you know that these pants can fit different size people, or not squish your legs if you're wearing puffy pants under them? It's neat."
After moving from the portable hole experiment to the discussion of his pants, he reminds any volunteer that, if they have any extra-dimensional items (special gloves, pouches, bags, etc.), they'll need to take them off, and leave them outside the portable hole. If no one else volunteers to try the breathing-through-a-5'-long-pipe while-inside-a-portable-hole, he'll try it himself (after first divesting himself of his knapsack, that has a bag of holding inside, and tying his his stylish pants of plenty on to the outside of the knapsack, leaving them outside for someone else to hold - 'and don't put the pants in my knapsack, either!' he warns). He asks if Renik or Rond or Arien or Draax, or someone, will pick up the portable hole, and see whether he can breathe through the tubular pipe while he rides within among the luggage for about two minutes. If it works, Bill is happy. If it does not work, he is at least satisfied in being aware of that.
Another reason for trying out flying now "Oh, oh! Also, if we're going to try the 'tarp-on-the-dragon' trick, we should probably practice. It'll take at least two of us, and maybe three or four would be better. I could try it myself, but, well, maybe we should try that experiment, too, before we get closer to the lair, if you know what I mean.
But, if we walk... Bill realizes his friends still may decide not to fly. So he adds at the end, if it is decided to walk. "Say, Feng. Would you mind carrying me? I can keep your shoulders warm. As long as you don't burn my boots with your wonderful blazing axe." If Feng will not, he requests the same of Rond. Both are big fellows. And, at Bill's slow walking pace compared to everyone else, he does not want to slow the party down.
Renik Saturday March 22nd, 2003 6:51:19 PM
Renik claps Feng on the back. "You want to tangle with a giant hunting party? Be my guest." He winks at the paladin. "I'll be behind the nearest snowdrift, awarding marks out of 10! Seriously though Feng, you may be right. We may be forced to mix it with those giants. But I'd rather avoid it if I can."
At Hobbes' question Renik looks thoughtful. "Hmm, it's possible I suppose... if I went in invisible and flying... but there are too many things that could go wrong. The dragon might see the items vanish when I touched them. Or smell me. Or the items might be secured in some way. And we need to take into account the X factor, the unpredictable. And if something did go wrong I wouldn't like to be in a cave with a dragon without backup. No, I'd say it's too risky. Besides" he nudges his dour companion cheekily "think of all the rest of that dragon loot we'd be passing up!"
The rogue grins at Bill. "You're right of course, there is no need than to fly a foot or so above the ground! Flying makes sense. But can you fly all of us Bill?"
If the halfling can Renik agrees with his idea of walking towards the foot of the mountains, then flying low to reach the lair. "In fact there's no reason why we can't fly straight away."
In response to the portable hole question Renik is less certain. "Bill, if you think it is safe I will happily try it out. But unless it impacts directly upon our attack of the creature, I would much rather leave that particular experiment until we are in more hospitable surroundings. Somewhere where they serve a decent bottle of Fargunian red!"
Regarding the tarp plan, Renik says "Bill, if the tarp takes up any more than two of us we should abandon the plan. We're going to need to hit that thing with everything we have, as fast as we can. If three or four of us are tied up with a single attack we lose a lot of flexibility. How about, if we agree to fly towards the lair, that when we start flying we see if you and one other can launch a succesful trial attack (unlit of course!). Get in a few minutes practice, then press on. I'd volunteer myself, but I'm at my best moving in quickly and staying mobile."
Renik pulls out a stick of dried beef from his trail rations, and begins to chew on it. "Well Rond" he says to the group's leader, "I guess it's your call. Which way do we go, and how? Only decide quick! My feet are starting to go numb, and the day isn't getting any longer."
Arien Sunday March 23rd, 2003 3:05:52 AM
"Well if someone manages to toss the thing over the dragon I can set it on fire, quite easily. As for which way to go, I don't fancy the idea of fighting those giants, but if they are camped there, there is a possibility that they are out and about. So as I see it, either way there is a chance to run into them. If its a hunting party, chances are most if not all will be away from the camp during the day and not likely to return until evening."
Draax Sunday March 23rd, 2003 2:12:47 PM
"I would prefer to avoid the giants if we can, but whatever is decided fly or walk is ok with me. There is nothing that I can add that has not already been said and since we are heading into the unknown, one way might be just as dangerous as the other. I do agree with Renik, lets get going while we still have daylight." He keeps his eyes scanning the area as if he expected monsters to burst in on the party at any moment.
Feng Sunday March 23rd, 2003 11:06:23 PM
To Bill he says, "I will carry you. Some of the snow drifts may be taller than you. I hope the portable hole experiment works. If it does it could be a way to sneak past patrols and keep warm at the same time."
Feng turns and scans his surroundings. He racks his brain trying to think of what creatures work with Giants, but he can't think of anything. He doubts that a Giant will care about an orc or any goblinoid.
"It may be a little more dangerous but there might be a cave system we could travel through. It would still be cold but it would be warmer than this."
Rond d20+14=27 d20+14=15 Monday March 24th, 2003 12:51:22 AM
Taking the time to quickly put on his winter gear. Rond feels slightly better once he starts to warm up.
"I'd say lets see how things go at first and see how our time goes. We may need the flying ability once we done, to reach our way back here in time. If we're not in place by the 2nd day to try this the we'll move along at the faster pace, unless we prove it's hopeless to move this way.
Because of the snow here, Bill I'm thinking that maybe it might just be easier for us to lower you in. How would we bring the person back out? Do we just dump the hole over?
Can we put some kind of levitation spell on the tarp for any length of time?
I can scout ahead in this stuff when we're ready to go"
Not wanting to take too long Rond helps out with the little hole experiment.
(If the group can move then Hide=27 move silently seems to fail miserabley. :( Otherwise will wait till next post and try again! ;) )
Bill answers Rond's questions Monday March 24th, 2003 2:21:31 AM
"I have a wand of levitation with six charges left, Rond. I suppose I could use it on one of the tarps. Each charge lasts half an hour. What were you thinking we could do?" he asks concerning levitating the tarp.
As regards the question of the best time to use the flying, he provides the group's leader with this information. "Well, IF we defeat the dragon, I probably won't have enough oomph left to let us all fly back here. But, I have enough now to get us closer NOW. That increases our odds of getting back within three days. Can't we just fly now? Can't we? Please? It'd be such fun." Then he pauses realizing that 'fun' may not be a convincing reason to his friends. So, in as serious a sounding tone of voice as he can muster, he adds, "I still suggest we wait until it gets dark, though, first, before we start flying. That'll give us more range. With Feng carrying me, and all of you long-legs walking, we could maybe cover three to five miles by dark along the hills, before we make the fly-or-walk decision."
Bill is excited about the little portable hole experiment. He explains to Rond that he thinks that down is always at the bottom of the portable hole, "Like, even if you hold it up to a wall as you open it - I think down would be sideways to the room the wall was in. So I don't think turning it upside down would cause anything to fall out. Oh, and I can just climb out of the hole. It's pretty well stacked with chests and stuff, and poles." He sits on the edge of the hole (after pack and pants are off), and drops down on to one of the chests stacked within. He unwraps a breathing tube. He sees how the breathing through the tube works, and whether Rond can gather up the corners of the portable hole, and close it all up except for the pipe sticking up, and then carry the hole along, or not.
"Feng, thank you," Bill says with gratitude to the huge holy warrior for his agreeing to carry him. "Caves? Maybe a good idea, as long as we take precautions, and avoid too many inhabitants. Out of the wind and all."
The X Factor (DMJK) [attack on Feng] d20+10=19 2d6(2+5)+9=16 [next attack roll] d20+5=18 [target selection 1=Arien, 2=Renik, 3=Rond] d3=1 2d6(2+1)+9=12 Monday March 24th, 2003 11:35:25 AM
The party debates the mode of transportation. As the talk goes on, Bill drops into the hole where he can't see what's going on outside, and Rond stands by watching with his attention focused on the halfling. Feng tries to stay close to his axe to keep warm. Arien offers up a little debate while watching Renik chew on his beef stick. In the midst of it all, Draax gets an uneasy feeling. Did that snow drift just move?
GODS! It did!
Before he has time to warn anyone, a hefty icy boulder comes streaking into the party's ranks. Everyone but Draax is caught flat footed. It heads right for Feng who is holding that deadly looking flaming axe.
BAM!
The small boulder smashes into Feng and bowls him over. He's on the ground and there's a sharp ache where it hit him in the chest. Probably broke a rib, but he's good for the fight. [AC19,dmg16]
The giant throws another head sized rock before anyone has time to do much else. This one hits Arien, and he feels his shoulder go numb as he's knocked to the ground. [AC18,dmg12]
The giant laughs and hefts another stone. Then he shouts out, "ARTAROK!" The party hears a wicked howl, and 3 large white wolves converge on the party from the rear. They'll be on the party in seconds.
There does not appear to be another giant.
Down in his hole, Bill doesn't really have any idea what's going on. The breathing tube works though. The experiment is quite a success. It's superdark in here though, and you can't hear anything. Funny since the hole is open. Probably something like the bottom always being down no matter where the hole is. It's really neat. It will be a move equivalent action for Bill to get out. The rest of the party can act normally. Knocking down Arien and Feng was for effect. They can get up. Remember no one is closed or within 5', so no full attacks unless it's with a missile weapon.
Renik (AC 32 (Expertise 5, Fight Defensive +3(Tumble bonus)Dodge +1) d20+4=7 d20+12=22 Monday March 24th, 2003 5:24:15 PM
"Oh great..." mutters the rogue to himself as he whips out his bow. "Guys," he calls out "concentrate on damaging those wolves before they get into range. It looks like the giant is going to stand over there raining rocks down on us. I'll try to draw his fire. Hopefully he'll find me pretty hard to hit!"
"HEY! YOU! Yeah you, stupid!" he yells at the giant, racing a few feet forward, then loosing an arrow in the vague direction of the giant (-9 penalty from Expertise and Fight Defensive hits AC 7).
"You throw rocks like a girl! No, wait... are you a girl? It's so hard to tell with you giants, you're all so darned ugly! I'd heard giants were real rock throwers, but you couldn't hit a barn door at 10 paces! You're useless! I bet all the other giants gather round on cold winter evenings and laugh themselves sick at your paltry rock throwing prowess! You couldn't hit me with one of your silly little pebbles if you threw them 'till this time next year! Just my luck to come up against the Wold's worst rock thrower. How is this going to look in my memoirs?"
Renik attempts to goad the giant into selecting him as a target for his rock throwing (Bluff 22), hoping his quick reactions will save him from getting crushed, and that the giant is bright enough to understand a single word he's saying.
Rond Monday March 24th, 2003 5:40:39 PM
Hoping that no one else might get hurt Rond pipes up, "Hobbes take this and help Bill to get out and suited up." Rond quickly hands the portable hole to Hobbes.
"Arien, Renik, I want you in the center here with Hobbes and I want you to pepper that Giant out there with arrows. Everyone else I want you to surround Bill, Hobbes, Renik, and Arien and keep them protect from the wolves. Hobbes if you think you can consider whether you might try to use the portable hole to catch the boulders. Once Bill is out of the hole. I'll hope that Wardd helps us and that the boulder won't destroy the objects in the hole.
Give me a quick second to see if I can convince these wolves to stop."
With that Rond quickly casts Speak with Animals.
"We are not here to go after your pack mate over there " indicating the Giant, " we just wish to move through your region here without causing any problems."
As he's talking he's moving outside the perimeter of the group so that the wolves know who it is that is talking to them.
Draax Monday March 24th, 2003 5:57:56 PM
Draax is not 100 percent sure that he saw something until he sees the boulder come flying towards the party. He berates himself for not trusting his instinct and warning the party as soon as he got an uneasy feeling.
Draax follows Rond's command and stands guard over the others.
[blended the two together. hope that's ok. -jk]
Feng Monday March 24th, 2003 9:53:55 PM
Feng takes a few steps forward, gripping his axe tightly. With no ranged weapons on him, save for his warhammer, Feng must wait for the wolves to close. Feeling the mounting pain from his wounds, Feng summons the healing energy bestowed upon him by the gods. His free hand takes on a yellow glow and presses against his chest.
ooc: lay on hands, healed 24hp leaving him with 16 subdual dmg
Hobbes Tuesday March 25th, 2003 12:15:24 AM
Hobbes is taken aback by the sudden slams of boulders into the party and fumbles a little as he's handed the portable hole. He nods quickly however when Rond updates him about what to do. He reaches into the hole quickly and...his hand doesn't penetrate the surface.
"Argh! What the---!", he curses.
He tries again and it again feels like a big piece of cloth. "How's this blasted thing work? I wasn't watching." He shakes it trying to possibly shake Bill out of it, then tries putting it on the ground, spreading it flat and reaches in again. His arm goes in up to his shoulder.
"Aha!" he says finally, "Now where is he?" He wriggles around trying to grasp hold of the halfling inside. Once he feels halfling he yanks it out and places it on the ground beside the hole.
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday March 25th, 2003 3:51:46 AM
Bill is so pleased to learn that the breathing tube works. As light comes in from above again, he sets the foot of the tube on top of the canvas bag, and uses the pole to vault just a bit as an arm descends, grasping. He takes hold of it, and finds himself lifted up quickly.
"Ooh! That was fun, Hobbes! Hey, it works! You can just ..."
Bill's patter fades away as he notes the tension in the air, and the sound of howling. "Oh-oh." He grabs up the corners of the hole, and tucks it, folded, into an inner pocket of his waistcoat. Next he takes up his pants, slipping them on in a hurry, then slings on his knapsack. As soon as he can, he begins to fly (probably not until next round, at least), straight up at first.
A piece of cake compared to a dragon... [dmjk] [atk on Renik] d20+10=30 [nat20] d20+10=29 [missed crit] [dmg on Renik] 2d6(5+4)+9=18 [atk on Rond] d20+9=23 d8+6=10 [cone of cold dmg] 4d6(3+1+5+4)=13 [bite atk on Feng] d20+9=23 [dmg on Feng] d8+6=12 [trip atk on Feng] d20+9=25 [wolf str check] d20+4=9 [bite atk on Arien] d20+9=28 [dmg on Arien] d8+6=9 [trip atk on Arien] d20+9=19 [wolf str check] d20+4=18 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 11:07:41 AM
Party results: Renik fires his arrow, and it somehow manages to sail right past that huge giant. Renik hears thoughts echoing in his head about the broad side of a barn.
Whether or not the giant understands him, the bold theif does seem to draw the giant's attention with his antics.
Rond gives the party some directions and tries talking to the rapidly advancing wolves. The one in the center snarls back in common so that everyone understands, "Stupid manling. Your warm heart is going to taste good." So much for negotitations.
Feng heals himself up as he and Draax wait for the clash. [if the subdual damage is from the barfight, you've healed up 5 points by now]
Hobbes fumbles with the hole and pulls Bill out, who tries to wriggle into his pants in the middle of all the chaos.
Monster actions: Renik's taunts do indeed draw the giant's ire, but the intended outcome isn't quite what he expected. The giant's rock is spot on, and it hits the playful rogue squarely in the middle of the chest. The rock forces the air from his lungs and stops the taunts short. [nat20,missed crit, 18dmg]
The giant laughs at his handiwork.
The wolves hit from the other side. The lead wolf hits Rond who sees that they clearly aren't normal wolves. They're huge, probably about the size of a pony. The other two go after the targets hit by the giant's rocks: Feng and Arien.
The wolf on Rond bites right through his leather armor. [AC23,dmg10] Even as it's biting, it breathes a cone of cold. Rond's right at the epicenter, but Hobbes and Bill are in the cone too. [13dmg, save DC16 for 1/2]
The second wolf viciously bites Feng's leg. [AC23,dmg12] It tugs on the leg and tries to pull Feng to the ground (trip). [str or dex check DC9 to stay on your feet]
The third wolf leaps at Arien biting his arm and trying to drag him to the ground. [AC28,dmg9, trip str or dex DC18 to stay on your feet]
The giant sees that his winterwolves have closed and starts moving quickly toward the party. He manages to close 20 feet after throwing his rock, and he's building speed.
AC [dmjk] Tuesday March 25th, 2003 11:11:36 AM
Winter wolf AC=15 Frost giant AC=21
Renik HP 39 AC 28 (Dodge, Fighting Defensively) d20+12=24 d20+9=24 d8+4=8 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 4:29:25 PM
"Oooofff!!" grunts the rogue as he is forced backwards by the force of the rock, cursing himself for getting caught.
"OK!" he yells, fighting to keep the pain from his face. "I let you have that first one for free! Now let's do it properly! See if you can hit me once I start moving! And make it a decent sized rock next time, that first one barely tickled!" (Bluff 24)
And he sends an arrow hissing back towards the giant. The flight is accurate, and it is fired with some force (AC 24 for 8 HP).
Seeing that the giant is racing towards them, Renik does some quick calculating. If they get caught in melee between the giant and the wolves they are finished. The giant needs to be kept away from the battle, delayed. If it attacks them with their forces split they are in desperate trouble. He has to buy the others time to take down the wolves so they can tackle the giant together. Maybe if he can just move fast enough, keep from getting hit... ("Yeah, right", a scornful inner voice pipes up. "Like you did the last time?" He forces the thought away.)
"I'm going to try and hold up the big guy" he calls to his companions. Try to get him to waste time chasing me so that we don't have a battle on two fronts. Just hurry up on those wolves!"
And he begins to run towards the giant, shouting "Come on! Take your best shot! I'll come a bit closer to make it easier for you!"
Despite his bravado there is an icy chill in his bones that has nothing to do with the weather. He prays he is not going to his death.
Feng clenches his teeth as the wolf bites on his leg. He feels the winterwolf tug but plants his feet. He is mildly suprised that the wolf isn't stronger.
"I though wolves were supposed to be strong?"
Feng grips his axe tightly in both hands and spins it dramaticly over his head. He brings the flaming axe heads down on the wolf in three powerfull swipes.
[OOC: Isn't the strength bonus for two handed weapons 1.5x normal? If not then the damage rolled needs to be slightly adjusted.]
[hit ac 18 for 16 normal and 5 fire] [hit ac 25 for 14 normal and 3 fire] [hit ac 21 for 11 normal and 4 fire]
[I think that since it's a double weapon it counts as fighting with 2 single handed weapons and not one two handed weapon. Thus the bonus is the extra attack and not extra damage. I'll have to check on it though. -jk]
Draax d20+13=21 d20+8=16 d6+3=5 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 9:24:29 PM
With his bow ready, Draax tries to assess the biggest threat. Taking aim at the giant he lets a couple of arrows fly. (hitting AC21 for 5dmg)
Arien d20+4=24 d20+8=26 d20+8=19 d6+1=7 d6=5 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 1:19:20 AM
Arien uses some quick legwork and manages not only to stay a foot but to use the beasts power against it. Whipping his rapier out he quickly skewers the wolf in the shoulder.
(24 against trip, Made the crit, 7+5 = 12 damage.)
Bill Troublefinder (AC 23, Flying 90, 45' altitude) d20+9=16 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 4:38:59 AM
The extra brisk cold from the dire winter wolf's breath passes over him (Reflex save DC 16, on the nose, takes 7 hp cold damage). It gives added impetus to finish pulling the magical pants over his cold weather gear, as Bill touches the area of his mind that allows him to fly. He grabs the knapsack, and slips it over his shoulder as he shoots into the air. As he ascends, the psion nomad puts his other arm through the other shoulder strap of the knapsack, as he tries to take in a 360 degree view of what in the Wold is going on here.
Rond d20=16 d20=7 d20=4 2d6(4+1)=5 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 7:59:57 AM
(ooc if available Rond activates the firesword)
Feeling sad about his talking with the wolves not helping, Rond defends himself against the current wolf.
(saves for 1/2 dam) (ooc I think Rond hits once for 5 points of dam plus strength bonus, and fire if allowed)
Another round (DMJK) [w sv for fire] d20+6=26 d20+6=19 d6=6 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 10:52:17 AM
Party results:
Renik pops the giant with an arrow and taunts him a bit. The tactic works, but as the giant charges down on him and quick draws that gigantic, nasty looking axe, the rogue wonders if he might have made a mistake.
Feng keeps from getting dragged down by the winterwolf and dishes out some hefty damage. The wolf doesn't take extra damage from the fire, but it can't stand up to a second round like that one.
Much to Renik's relief, Draax calmly pops the giant with another arrow.
Arien dances the blade with his wolf and draws blood, but he's pretty certain that he's hurt worse than the wolf is.
Bill gets his pants on and gets up in the air. It's freaking cold and windy up there! He also doesn't see much else of use. There's 3 winter wolves attacking the party and a frost giant charging Renik. He doesn't see any sign of other giants lurking just behind the next ridge or anything. Wherever the others are, they aren't here.
Rond puts up a feeble defense against his wolf with his flaming greatsword. It takes a total of 17 dmg as the flames really seem to hurt it.
[gotta run, I'll do the monster round in a bit -jk]
The charging giant... (DMJK) [atk Renik] d20+20=23 [atk rond] d20+9=12 [atk Arien] d20+9=15 d8+6=13 [CoC] 4d6(6+2+5+1)=14 [atk Feng] d20+9=15 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 10:53:47 AM
The giant doubles its speed and charges down on Renik. It pulls out the biggest axe the rogue has ever seen, and pulls the blade back for a strike as it runs. The attack opens the giant up a bit (-2AC), but his momentum makes that already deadly weapon a fell instrument. Renik's life flashes before his eyes...
WHOOSH!
The blade sails over Renik's head and doesn't even scratch him. Wardd be praised!
The winter wolves keep their current targets. The first one bites at Rond, but it's jaws snap clean air.
The next one bites Arien's arm [AC15,dmg13], and it breathes a cone of cold as it does so. The icy chill fills the air. Hobbes and Draax are in the path of the blast too. [dmg 14, Ref DC16 for 1/2]
The last winterwolf bites at Feng, but misses. Demoralized, it turns to flee. It's fast and makes it 25 feet, but Feng gets an attack of opportunity as a parting shot.
The party seems to be gaining the upper hand.
Arien d20+10=24 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 2:29:31 PM
Twisting his body out of the way Arien manages to only be caught by part of the blast. Pulling his arm away from the beast Arien tumbles backwards twenty feet, coming back upright he retreats as far as he can from the wolf.
(Double Move, as far back as I can get.)
Rond AC 16 HP 53 d20+11=12 d20+6=19 3d6(2+1+2)+4=9 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 2:47:03 PM
Rond gets distracted when the first wolf turns to flee. Surprised to see a wolf leaving so quickly Rond misses the wolf he's swinging at. Realizing he needs to pay attention Rond growls at himself and delivers better to the wolf in front of him. (AC 19 for 9 points of damage)
"Hobbes are you alright man? You're awfully quiet back there)
(ooc thanks Feng. I hadn't known about the 2-hand rule and hadn't been adding that in on my strikes! :) )
Renik (AC 32) HP 39 d20+12=20 d20+6=11 d20+16=30 d20+16=20 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 3:26:11 PM
Offering fervent thanks to Wardd, the rogue does his best to keep the giant furious and occupied.
"Oh no! I don't believe it! You swing an axe even worse than you throw rocks! My old granny swings an axe better than that! And she's 98! And arthritic! And she's got no arms! At least try to put a bit of oomph into it!" (Bluff 20 to keep the giant's attention focused on him).
Realising that if the axe connects he is going to end up very dead very quickly, Renik concentrates on moving as fast as he possibly can, tumbling, leaping, ducking and swerving in a desperate attempt to keep the giant wrong footed (AC 32).
Rolling up close to the giant (Tumble 20 avoids AoO from reach weapon) he suddenly flips to his feet and jabs swiftly with his right hand blade (AC 11). However he is moving too quickly to get any proper accuracy behind the blow. "See? That's how you fight! "Oops, I missed again!" Pathetic!" he quips, as he rolls away, circling back out of range (Tumble 30 to prevent AoO, moves 20 feet at a right angle to the rest of the party, trying to get the giant to follow him, forcing it to move far enough to sacrifice its full attack).
"Now try again, and do it properly this time or I may well lose patience with you and have to gut you like a trout" the rogue advises, waggling his lefthand shortsword in a show of patronising chastisement, and trying not to wince at the pain that still lances through his chest where the giant's rock hit him.
Inside he prays that his companions take those wolves down quickly. This is a very dangerous game he is playing. The longer it goes on the greater the chance that that immense axe is going to catch up with him... and it would be a tragic waste to lose one of New Elenna's most eligible batchelors at so early an age.
Draax AC21, 2 dmg d20+5=18 d20+13=32 d20+8=17 d6+3=9 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 6:21:01 PM
Draax catches a glance of the cone coming his way while keeping his bow aimed at the giants. He takes a side step to get out of the center of the cone trusting his ring to negate the rest(DC 25 saved for half, ring negates 5 points of cold for a total of 2 dmg). In the back of his mind he absently thinks about how this is the first time he felt the slightest bit of cold since purchasing his ring so long ago.
Going into warrior mode Draax blocks out his surroundings, centers his focus on the giant movements, and waits for a good opening. The half-elven warrior draws back the bowstring and takes a deep breath that he holds for half of a second as he releases the arrow. He smiles as he is rewarded with a direct hit (AC 32, 9dmg). Keeping his focus his draws his second arrow and lets it fly. Then watches the arrow sail off into oblivion. He tells himself that it will take too many arrows and too much time to really do any damage at the rate he is going.
Draax half heartedly drops his bow and readies his sword and shield, then takes a big swallow as he prepares himself.
Feng d20+14=21 d8+8=13 d6=5 d20+12=18 d20+7=8 d20+7=16 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 10:23:48 PM
Feng can't keep up with the wolf, even without the snow, but takes one last parting swipe. [hit ac 21 for 18]
Seeing the large giant nearly cut Renik in half, Feng moves over to assault the giant. He spins his flaming double axe but misses badly. [hit ac 18, 8, 16]
Bill Troublefinder 5d4(4+3+1+4+3)=15 Thursday March 27th, 2003 2:23:07 AM
If Feng's last blow does not take out the winter wolf, then Bill wants to ensure it does not flee to warn others. He flies to a point above it, and emits the barest whisper from his mouth - which whisper instantaneously (well, at least ~330 meters per second) gains force, and transforms into a cone of sound that shakes flesh and rattles bone. He concentrates so as to amplify the power of the sound (Fortify Power feat, applied twice for 3+2+2 power points, causing 23 hp sonic damage to wolf, Reflex save for 12 hp damage).
If Bill is able with the same 60' cone of sound to catch any other winter wolf within, while not endangering his friends, he does so. If Feng's wolf is finished off by him, and Bill can focus his cone of sound on a different wolf, or pair of wolves, without harm to the party, then he does that.
Hobbes [16 damage] d20+3=15 d4+1=3 Thursday March 27th, 2003 2:37:34 AM
One minute Rond was barking strangely at the wolves, the next Hobbes gets a facefull of frost. The chill seems to have frozen his plate mail a bit. After remobilizing, he steps forward to Rond and tags him in the back shouting, "Broo'at Mond Iris!"
[Bull's Strength, Rond adds 3 to his strength]
"Your turn to...erm...beat up things." he says.
Chop much wood with that axe? [dmjk] [AAO on Feng] d20+18=24 2d8(4+3)+13=20 [W3 save] d20+6=17 [atk on feng] d20+13=19 2d6(2+3)+14=19 d20+8=14 [bite on Rond] d20+9=27 d8+6=12 [trip on Rond] d20+9=19 [wolf str check] d20+4=21 [dmcheck for something] d4=4 d4=1 [bite on Draax] d20+9=18 4d6(3+1+5+6)=15 Thursday March 27th, 2003 10:51:42 AM
party results: Renik dances around the giant. While trying to stay alive, the thief notes that the giant doesn't react to specific things that he says but rather just his taunting demeanor.
Rond dishes out a little more damage to his wolf.
Feng drops his wolf with has parting shot and moves on to the giant. The giant takes his attack of opportunity on Feng when he approaches. [AC24, dmg 20] Blood bursts in a shower all over Renik as the axe bites through Feng's armor. The rogue has a second to realize that could have been him as the wounded paladin struggles to return the favor to the giant. Feng strikes some solid blows but none have enough force to penetrate the giant's thick chain armor.
Draax lays down some cover fire and peppers the giant with arrows while Arien backpedals away from his wolf.
Bill doesn't see much opportunity for his cone because everyone is in tight melee. Bit when Arien moves out of the way, Bill takes the opportunity to blast the wolf with a cone of sound. As the sound blasts the wolf and sends up snow in a shower, Bill thinks about avalanches. Fortunately, this area is rocky, but later on... The wolf flattens its ears down on its head and snarls up at Bill as it hops out of the cone [saved, dc17] [please give the DC next time, so I don't have to figure it out. I think it was 15]
Hobbes gives Rond a strength boost, and he notes that Arien is in dire need of healing.
baddies' actions: The giant shifts its attention to Feng, the more dangerous foe, and goes after him with gusto in a full power attack. It howls in range and whips that axe down on the halforc with all its might. The first blow strikes true, and Feng wonders if it severed his arm. Lucky for him, the second attack misses. [pwr atk=5 from atk to dmg;AC19,dmg19;AC14,miss]
The wolf on Rond bites him again. It clamps on tight and tries to pull Renik to the ground. [AC27,dmg12;trip AC19, Str or Dex DC 25 to keep from getting dragged to the ground]
The wolf that had been on Arien gets blasted by Bill. The blast is enough to keep it from pursuing Arien, and it shifts to the uninjured enemies. It leaps at Draax and tries to rip out his throat. Fortunately for the warrior, his chain mail stops the attack. Still the wolf manages to breathe its cone of cold, and Draax and Hobbes are in the blast. Rond is close to the blast, but has the chance of being just outside the area of effect. [dmg15,refDC16 for 1/2] [Rond roll d2, 1=out, 2=in]
It's the party's turn.
[I forgot to add in the size category bonus on previous wolf trip attacks. There should have been an extra +4 on all of them. That's why the DC for Rond is higher this round.]
Damage update (DMJK) Thursday March 27th, 2003 11:15:20 AM
These are the totals that I show:
Arien passes out in the snow, or maybe he's dead. His blood is melting the snow. (-7hp)
Feng is battered but on his feet. He can't take another hit from that giant though. (23hp,-11 subdual, total= 12hp)
Rond hurts, but is pretty healthy. (48hp, + possible cone of cold damage)
Renik thinks he has a broken rib from that rock. (39hp)
Hobbes is in pretty good shape, but the cones of cold have left a chill in his bones. (35 or 28hp depending on Cone of cold save this round)
Bill is feeling fine, safe and sound up in the air. (48 hp)
Draax's injuries are minimal. (61 hp, maybe 59 depending on save)
Damage update (DMJK) Thursday March 27th, 2003 11:17:30 AM
The wolf on Rond (W2) is badly hurt.
The wolf on Draax (W3) has moderate wounds.
The giant has a couple of arrows in him, but they don't seem to bother him much.
Bill Troublefinder (Flying) d20+1=14 d8+1=7 Thursday March 27th, 2003 2:51:59 PM
Bill sees Arien downed and bleeding. He swoops down to him, and, taking the wand of cure light wounds from his pocket (free action), touches his friend, healing 7 hp damage. (Ignore 1st roll - forgot to change die to d8.) The halfling prepares to continue the healing process again.
Renik (AC 24 (Dodge), HP ??) d20+16=27 d20+15=31 4d6(5+5+2+3)+5=20 d6=6 Thursday March 27th, 2003 6:19:32 PM
Seeing that the fight is on a knife's edge, Renik does the only thing he can do, and tries to inflict as much damage on the giant as he can. Realising that his taunts are useless now he figures the best way to get the giant's attention back is to hurt him, badly.
He weaves in close (Tumble 27), ensuring that he has a flanking position opposite Feng (+2 to attack, enables Sneak Attack) and stabs hard at the flesh at the rear of the giant's knee (Hit AC 31, Hero point to reroll 2 gives 24 points damage).
He is about to cartwheel away once again when he realises two things. If he stays in close like this it might just give Feng the opening he needs to strike home (+2 flanking bonus to Feng's next attacks). And most importantly, the big half orc is bleeding heavily. Unless Renik can get the giant focused back on him, his companion is going to die if hit again.
Knowing that the giant cannot understand him, but continuing his verbal diatribe regardless, Renik yells "Hah! See, stupid? That's how to hit someone! Yeah, you want some more? I've got plenty more where that came from, you overgrown ape! Come on! Take a swing at me, you halfwit!"
As his deperation grows his wit begins to evaporate. If only the others can take down those wolves...
(OOC: JK, are you sure about that 33HP for Renik? Renik was healed back up to his full HP of 57 before this battle, and as far as I can tell he's only suffered 18 points, leaving him on 39.)
I was using the wrong sheet. 39 is right. -jk
Draax (AC 21, 12 dmg) d20+5=15 d20+14=34 d20+14=16 d20+9=17 d8+7=8 d8+7=14 d8+7=12 Thursday March 27th, 2003 7:10:20 PM
With his attention on the giant, Draax is almost caught off guard when the wolf attacks. As he counterattacks he remembers too late about the creature's cold breath and is unable to get out of the way (failed save, ring of warmth negates 5 dmg, takes 10 dmg from cone of cold). Taking the blast right in the face, Draax continues with his swing and hits the monster hard and then catches it again with his return swing (AC 34 crit and AC 17 for a total of 34 dmg).
Feng d20+17=29 d20+9=22 d20+9=29 d20+9=25 d8+16=21 d6=6 d8+8=11 d6=2 3d8(7+6+1)+24=38 3d6(5+4+2)=11 Thursday March 27th, 2003 9:23:26 PM
Racked by tremendous pain, Feng grits his teeth and holds his ground. He cannot run nor would he if the opportunity presented itself. This was his pennance. This is his duty.
Feng spins his axe and focuses on the giants exposed leg. If this was his time, then he must do all he could to aid his friends. With what could be his last act, Feng summoned the divine power within him to smite the evil giant.
[hit ac 29 for 27, there was a +3/+8 modifier for smite evil] [hit ac 22 for 13] [critical hit for 49- 3d8+24+3d6]
OOC: I do have hero points saved. Is there a way that they may be able to save my life? I forsee a big thumping in the near future by at least one angry giant if not two.
If damage drops to -10, hero points can be used be used to prolong your life 1 per point per round or something like that. I'd have to look the specifics back up. You can also use them to reroll your to hit rolls. -jk
Rond AC 16 HP 41 (bull strength +3) d20+4=22 d2=1 d20+11=13 d20+11=16 d20+6=20 3d6(4+2+3)+7=16 3d6(4+1+5)+7=17 Thursday March 27th, 2003 11:04:07 PM
(ooc I'm assuming the wolf pulls Rond to the ground, not Renik. My hp's differ from yours. Shall we go with yours? (I was still down some even with 5 points returned from bar battle) :) )
Rond struggles with the wolf to try to maintain his balance. (rolled 22. Can I get a skill bonus stack of either balance, or escape artist plus hero point 10% to get to 25?)
As Rond struggles with wolf he's fighting with, it pulls him out of range of the breath of the other.
--- If Rond can get free he quickly turns and tries to deliver two more blows on the wolf he was struggling with. Worried about his friends Rond muscles his way into hitting the wolf twice (used hero point). (AC 16 for 16, and AC 20 for 17 points)
Arien Friday March 28th, 2003 1:11:06 AM
Groaning quietly, Arien shifts a bit before collapsing back into unconciousness.
Hobbes (16 damage) d20+3=20 3d8(7+6+8)+7=28 Friday March 28th, 2003 4:13:21 AM
Hobbes is ready for the wolf this time and ducks forward just enough that all the colddamage goes to his backside instead of directly into his face. (8 Damage taken)
[JK, you are correct about the previous save using a hero point. I took half damage instead of none. Total now is 16.)
He turns around and sees Arien crumple into helpless unconsciousness and charges over to him.
"Oh, no you don't. We need your help!"
He waves his hands and intones.
[Cure Serious Wounds on Arien for 28 hp.]
When he finishes he lifts Arien upright on his feet. "Up you go!"
Hobbes tries to stand between the enemies and Arien.
Another go (DMJK) [atk on Draax] d20+9=18 [atk on Feng] d20+18=20 2d8(7+7)+13=27 [cleave on Renik] d20+18=37 2d8(4+6)+13=23 d20+13=26 2d8(8+4)+13=25 Friday March 28th, 2003 3:25:06 PM
Party results: Bill and Hobbes get Arien back up on his feet and feeling nearly as good as new. Arien's fine, but he also knows just how close to death he came.
Renik stabs the giant in the leg and gives the brute his first significant dose of pain.
Feng rallies what just might be the last of his strength and rains Domi's wrath down on the cursed foe. (I don't think the flame does critical damage. You'd have to add flaming burst for that. Still, good show.)
Using his balance skill and some hidden store of energe (hero point), Rond manages to stay on his feet despite the winter wolf's attempts. As the wolf tugs, Rond rains blows down on the monster's head. It falls. Dead. But it's jaws are still clamped tight on Rond's leg. He'll have to pry the dead beast loose.
Draax gives his wolf a savage blow, but the thing still has some fight left in it.
Monster round: The wolf snarls at Draax, "I'm taking you with me." It's more than a little creepy hearing the things speak. Their voices have an odd barking quality that sets Draax's teeth on edge. It bites at the well protected warrior again, but it can't seem to penetrate his armor.
The giant howls in pain, and he tries to crush the bugs that bit him. He eases off on the force of his blow and just tries to make certain that he hits the manthing with the fire. The giant hits and the massive blade bites slashes the heroic paladin. (AC20,dmg27) The blow knocks Feng back several feet, and he lands in a heap near Draax. He doesn't stand back up.
The giant revels in his victory and cleaves to the other gnat, Renik. The blow hits solidly, and it's a wonder that the giant didn't split the nimble thief in half. (AC37,dmg23) It follows with its second attack, which also connects with the brave rogue. (AC26,dmg25)
Renik collapses in a heap at the giant's feet, and it gives a victorious howl daring anyone to come to their companion's aid.
Hobbes' trained eye sees that Renik is in worse shape than Feng. His life is hanging by a mere thread.
Draax (AC 21, 12 dmg) d20+14=25 d20+9=20 d8+7=10 d8+7=12 Friday March 28th, 2003 5:15:16 PM
Listening to the creature speak gives Draax the creeps, he vows to himself to make the creature into a liar. He notices when Feng falls near him, but he forces himself to concentrate on the enemy that is in front of him. Draax tries to think of something witty to say to the creature, but nothing comes to mind. Instead he just gives a comment to the creature's statement. "You will have to make that journey along."
Swinging his sword again at the creature, Draax is rewarded with a good cut and hits it again on his back swing. (Hit AC 25 and 20 for a total of 22 dmg)
Renik (-9 HP) d100=1 Friday March 28th, 2003 5:37:48 PM
Lying broken and bleeding in the snow, Renik's near lifeless body is little more than a mass of broken bone, torn flesh and pumping blood. A fluttering heartbeat falters...
...then recovers, however faintly.
(OOC: JK, I'm not sure if it's the player or DM who rolls for HP stabilizing, but I'm really fond of my roll! If Renik gets out of this alive, Wardd has got a new convert!)
Feng (-15hp) Friday March 28th, 2003 6:45:02 PM
OOC: Well at least Feng went down with an impressive display. JK could you e-mail me? I can't seem to locate your address.
Arien 5d6(6+6+6+4+6)=28 5d6(3+3+4+6+6)=22 Friday March 28th, 2003 7:51:31 PM
Snapping back to his feet Arien growls while glaring at the giant and activates the magic of his boots. Aiming his spells carefully to miss Renik yet hit the giant Arien casts 2 Fireball spells in succesion.
(Spell DC is 21, reflex save of course. 28 damage for the first and 22 for the second.)
Rond AC 16 HP 41 (bull strength +3) d20+4=5 d20+4=18 Friday March 28th, 2003 9:15:53 PM
Seeing his friends in great need, Rond does his best to pry open the jaw that is clamped to his thigh. Choosing the best of the two, Rond tries both his hands and his sword in order to unclamp the teeth. Using all his focused being he does his best to make the teeth open up. (used hero point to get 18 dex or str roll) (bonus is the same)
Hobbes 3d8(5+2+7)+7=21 Friday March 28th, 2003 11:15:50 PM
Hobbes leaves Arien's side and runs streaming toward Renik, panic on his face.
He reaches his side and shouts his words of divine magic, almost screaming up to his deity and touches Renik's forehead. A yellow light bursts forth out of his hand and into Renik. [Cure Serious Wounds for 21 hp.]
Bill Troublefinder 5d4(2+4+4+4+3)=17 d20+5=18 Saturday March 29th, 2003 3:54:30 AM
Hearing the challenging bellow of the giant, the hobbit sees two of his friends crumpled near the monstrosity's feet. Bill flies forward to a point low to the ground, and about fifteen feet behind the back of the giant. He aims the energetic sound in a fashion similar to the way he hurt the attacking winter wolf a few moments ago. However, he aims the focus of the cone upwards, so as to catch the giant, but not his friends, in the area of effect. He notes the explosive fireballs just barely above his own head, and is glad he chose to go in low. Taking the training Professor Abulek gave him, the whispered word, 'muffin', expands in volume to shake the bleeding giant, this affront to smallness before him. [Fortify power, sonic damage 21 hp, Reflex save vs DC 18 for half damage.] After the cone of cold is unleashed, he flies back about five feet, watching the actions of the frost giant, ready to move to one side or another should frosty attack, or even just fall in his direction.
DMJK Saturday March 29th, 2003 5:03:52 AM
[Hey, Feng isn't dead. The subdual damage on his total is nonlethal damage. He's effectively at -4.]
VICTORY! (dmjk) d20+3=19 d20+3=11 Monday March 31st, 2003 2:35:40 PM
Draax swings his sword and ends the life of the last winterwolf.
Then Arien activates his boots of speed and throws two fireballs up in the air so that they strike the top half of the giant but don't harm Renik near the ground. The frost giant can't handle the heat and drops its axe to throw it's hands up by its head. It dances around in agony. The smell of burning frost giant flesh fills the cold air, and after a few brief seconds it topples over backwards with a loud thud.
Bill sees that his attack isn't neccessary and saves himself the energy of an attack. Bill is also pretty sure that those two airborne fireball explosions must have been visible to anyone in the valley below. That could very well mean the other frost giants are already headed this way, and no one is in any position for another fight right now.
As Rond pries the other dead wolf from his leg, he notices that the dropped axe stuck in the ground scant inches from Renik still form. And fortunately the giant fell over backwards and not toward Feng.
Hobbes gets to Renik and sees that he's only just in time. His casts his spell and Renik's breathing becomes stronger, steadier, smoother. His wounds still look unpleasant, but he'll live. He might not feel like it when he wakes up though.
Feng's breathing is coming in ragged gasps that are rapidly becoming less forceful. He needs attention soon now that Renik is stable.
Bill Troublefinder d8+1=6 d8+1=8 d8+1=2 d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=8 d8+1=8 Monday March 31st, 2003 3:39:18 PM
"Save your spells, Hobbes, if you'll be able to cast some fly spells, instead," Bill counsels the cleric of Gargul. He approaches Feng, and casts cure light wounds six times with the wand on the brave paladin, healing 6+8+4+6+8+8=40 hp. "Good work, everyone. Someone search toasted frosty here, and the wolves for good measure. Then, what say we fly outta here, before reinforcements show up?" The halfling also offers to place in the portable hole the mighty axe of the giant, and anything else that can fit which seems worthwhile to bring along. Bill detects magic on the axe and any items recovered from their downed adversaries, then is willing to empower his friends to fly as soon as possible. "I can levitate a few of us, and the bigger guys who can fly can pull them along on ropes. We've gotta book, fast, friends!" The hobbit pulls out a looped rope, and suggests his friends hang on, so as to keep together.
[OOC: Just trying to pack a minute or two of activity into one post, now that combat is over.]
Feng Monday March 31st, 2003 6:57:12 PM
Feng's eyes flutter open. He remembered hearing a divine voice telling him that it wasn't time. Then he felt a great pull and a rush of energy. Considering that he thought he was dead, Feng feels pretty good.
"Thanks for the save. I thought my time among the living was over. Is everything alright?"
After getting the rundown Feng glances over at the fallen wolves.
"I know that time is of the essence but I think we should take the wolves and find a place to rest. Their fur will make good protection against the cold."
OOC: what is my current hp at?
25 hp. And since subdual damage heals first, the rest of the damage is all normal. -jk
Arien Monday March 31st, 2003 7:58:50 PM
As the giant falls Arien deactivates his boots, grins and says, "Oh yeah chalk one up to the mage." Arien then hustles back over the combat area and helps to gather up anything and get the party ready to move.
Draax Monday March 31st, 2003 10:02:20 PM
Draax hears the explosive sounds of the fireballs, but is still surprised when he turns and watches the giant fall. He is glad to see that the wounded are being taking care of and that no one was lost. After doing a quick search of the dead animals, he is ready to leave.
"I agree with Bill about flying, the last thing we want to leave behind is tracks for the giant and their wolves to follow."
Rond AC 16 HP 41 (bull strength +3) Monday March 31st, 2003 10:31:21 PM
"I'm not sure we have the time to worry about getting the pelts. If we have the spell power to bring them along than we can. But with everything that has gone on I think we'll need to stay light and swift."
As Rond is speaking he's doing a search of the wolves, the giant, and then taking a final look at the axe the giant was carrying.
"For those that can we probably want to get rid of our tracks from where we came onto the mountain. We don't want anyone to be waiting for us when we come back."
Using whoever can help, Rond directs those that are healthy on how to hide their tracks.
Renik (from 12 up to 41HP) 4d8(4+8+5+5)+7=29 d20+10=30 d20+10=22 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 4:13:09 AM
The rogue's eyes flutter open. "I-I'm alive? Wardd be praised!"
He focuses on Hobbes' severe face staring down at him, and adds "Oh, and Gargul too! No offense, Hobbes!"
The struggles up into a sitting position, then falls back to the blood stained snow with a grimace. "Did anyone get the number of that horsecart?" he groans, as pain from his numerous wounds lances through him. "Remind me never to try dancing with a frost giant again."
He pulls a potion from his pack, and gulps it eagerly down (CCW, 29 HP healed, back up to 41), and sighs with relief as broken bones and flesh reknit and heal before his eyes.
Still aching he stands and examines the scene of the battle. "Wow! Arien, you toasted shorty but good! I agree, Bill, Rond, we need to get out of here fast, and we all need to fly or those hunters will be on our tracks at once. Let's gather any loot tall dark and ugly has on him, and get moving. Tangling with one of those things was more than enough for one day, thank you!"
He scans the surrounding snowscape for any signs of movement from their would-be pursuers (Spot 30), and listens for any wolf howls in the distance (Listen 22).
As they travel Renik asks Bill "Hey Bill, how's your wand doing? I could use some more healing if there are sufficient charges remaining. But if it's running low don't worry, I'll either get Hobbes to heal me when we make camp, or use a potion. We're going to need plenty of healing when we face the big white, of that I'm certain." (Renik is currently 16 HP down from his max).
Hobbes Tuesday April 1st, 2003 6:11:27 AM
All the air from Hobbes' held breath comes rushing out when Renik's eyes flitter and open. Hobbes looks down at him and smiles. "Thank you." he whispers inaudibly.
He too, then plops down in the snow next to Renik, very winded from the run.
"It can't get much harder. Erm....I think it was FG-1, Renik," he says with an absolutely straight face.
Rushing off (dmjk) 3d4(4+4+2)=10 d100=69 d100=100 d100=41 d100=40 d100=26 d100=65 d100=44 d100=15 d100=51 d100=58 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 10:19:27 AM
The wolves weren't carrying anything, and Bill suggests cramming them into his protable hole until there's time to skin them, after wrapping them in the tarp of course. It's done quickly. Only two of them fit though.
The giant's axe is not magical. It was just big and sharp and swung by a 15 foot tall giant. Someone could drag it along, but it would be a little large for anyone to use, even Feng when he's enlarged.
The giant was carrying a large patchwork bag. It holds: boots, a whetstone, seven hairpins, a fur cloak, 200 feet of rope, a knife (the blade is about right for a shortsword, but the handle is too wide for any of you to effectively use it that way), 3 sticks of charcoal, bone dice, some sort of dried animal dung. Everything in it is giant sized, of course. One of the sticks of charcoal is ground down a bit, like it's been used to write on rocks.
Bill Troublefinder d8+1=5 d8+1=8 d8+1=8 d8=2 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 4:01:46 PM
"Well, Renik - boy, you did a GREAT job keeping that giant occupied. I've got to remember to write down what you all did this afternoon. Anyway, I've used 15 charges from the wand. Used eight in the bar, one on Feng just before we left Floating City, and six more here on Feng."
Bill insists on offering Feng one more CLW (for 5 hp more). [OOC: Feng, Bill's wand restored 7 hp after the bar fight, 40 hp as of the last post, and 5 more just now. He was down -4 real hp at the time Bill did the 40, so should be at 41 real hp, less 11 subdual, for a net of 30 - if this sounds right to JK.]
He expends two more charges, restoring 16 hp to Renik. [If anyone else would like some healing from the wand, go ahead and post such, roll 1d8+1 the number of times you want to be healed, and Bill will do that for you. Reroll if the result is d8+1=2. Or ask Hobbes for help.] Bill uses lesser body adjustment to heal himself of 2 hp damage.
"So, we're flying, right?" Bill confirms. "Hobbes, unless you tell me you can't do it yourself, I'll leave it up to you to get yourself to fly. If you can get yourself and one other to fly, all the better. Our best defense right now is not to conserve our spells, but to get away, and find somewhere safe to spend the night. Agreed?"
Bill enables Rond, Arien, Draax, Feng and Renik to fly. Or, if Hobbes can help one other besides himself in this regard, he is happy to have him do so for one whom he chooses.
Bill observes Rond's work to obscure the steps they have taken. "Let's walk that way," he says, pointing northwest, "So our last footprints show us going that way. Then turn left, and head along the feet of the mountains to the right of the valley, and look for a place to hole up in about three hours, or a little less. Just so you know - when the flying ends, for a short period of time - maybe ten seconds, or half a minute - you'll find yourself falling slowly, like a feather. So, after we've been out more than two and a half hours - fly low - no more than sixty feet up. Although, three to ten feet altitude is probably best. Wish we could go invisibly. But let's just go."
He passes out a 50' long loop of rope, with several smaller loops, sized so one might put one's hand within, and grab hold. Via William the psicrystal, the little nomad telepathically communicates, 'When it gets dark in an hour and a half or two, those of us who can see well in the dark will lead the rest of us. If someone sees that giants have spotted us, we could fly up a side canyon, maybe, to throw them off, then work our way over back the way we want to go. Play it by ear, watch for trees or rock formations that can visibly block us from view of the valley, maybe. And pray, friends, pray - but with eyes wide open.'
Renik d20+10=18 d20+10=24 d20+10=17 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 4:21:26 PM
"Yeah, my delaying tactic of allowing that giant to knock seven shades of stuffing out of me worked out really well" the newly invigorated rogue answers Bill with a rueful grin as he works to hide is tracks as directed by Rond. "I'm just glad we all got out of that alive. Just goes to show what the advantage of surprise can do for you, eh?"
As they get ready to depart he slaps Feng on the back. "Thanks for coming to bail me out back there my friend. Things got pretty scarey there for a while."
He loops his hand into the rope and feels a thrill of pure joy flood through him as his feet leave the ground. This is the only way to travel!
As the party move out (having first laid their false trail), Renik scans the surrounding countryside with care, and continues to keep careful watch for signs of pursuit or movement up ahead as they speed along.(Spot rolls of 18, 24, 17)
He tries to keep as low as is safely possible, and pulls his cloak tightly around him, trying to stay as warm as possible.
Feng Tuesday April 1st, 2003 7:42:20 PM
If nobody objects Feng will trim down the giants fur cloak into at least one, but hopefully two man sized versions. Being wounded, Feng will need to stay warm to heal faster and keep his strength up.
"As soon as possible I would like to treat everybodies wounds. I have a healer's box with me and there are some herbs that will help prevent infection and fight off effects of the chill."
Draax Tuesday April 1st, 2003 9:09:53 PM
Draax keeps himself from laughing out loud at Renik's remarks about his strategy to keep the giant's attention. He has never been a big fan of flying, but Draax loops the rope around his hand and gets ready to soar with the others.
Rond AC 16 HP 73 (bull strength +3) d8+1=8 d8+1=5 d8+1=2 d8+1=6 d8+1=7 d8+1=8 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 12:58:28 AM
"I could definitely use some healing." Rond then walks over and has Bill heal him up. (41 to 73)
Rond considers whether he should use his endure cold spells. (if needed Rond will use his scrolls, and if anyone else looks like they might need it he'll offer a scroll to them)
Knowing that he uses a two-handed weapon Rond decides that he should probably be last or next last on the rope. So that if anything does come up he can be down and fighting fast.
Responding to Renik, "I might have to volunteer you for toy making duty. Since you seem to have a lot of stuffing to offer."
Smiling, Rond hopes that the party can keep it's humor up when they hopefully return from this adventure.
refuge (DMJK) Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 10:10:54 AM
Battered and bruised, the group flies at low altitude looking for a place to hole up.
After about 3 hours, Renik spots a small cave. It's deep enough to afford some protection from the elements, has no animals or other creatures living in it, and it has an opening too small for giants to fit through.
As night starts to fall it gets wretchedly cold. A fire or magical heating will be neccessary for anyone to be able to get adequate rest and sleep. Their is nothing for ventilation of smoke except the mouth of the cave, but the ceilings are high. Also the cave is deep enough that you can light a fire without fear of it being seen.
After the combat with the giant, it is clear to everyone that the group will have to go against the dragon while at full strength, or as close to it full strength as possible, in both health and magic.
Method of heating?
More healing?
Watch schedule?
New spells memorized in the morning?
Bill Troublefinder d8=7 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 4:09:24 PM
Along the way, Bill takes the time to thank Hobbes for helping to keep everyone alive, and Arien for the magnificent fireworks finish to their chief ambusher.
He also notes the approximate location of the dragon's cave, marking how far they will have to travel to reach it, and calculating by what means.
Once they move into the cave Renik spotted, inside Bill activates a few sunrods, giving light to those inside - after he verifies that the light won't be visible from outside the cave.
"Say, Hobbes, if you have any more healing available, I see Feng can use more. Rond? Arien? Anyone else? You can take care of 'em, can't you? Let me know if you run out, then I'll use the wand." Bill, in the apparent safety of the cave, heals himself up fully (lesser body adjustment, 7 hp - should take care of any cold damage, too). If those party members with healing ability can't get everyone back up, before he resorts to the wand, he offers Hobbes three scrolls of cure light wounds.
He goes through his removal of his outer pants, and setting aside of his knapsack. About to dive for the sleeping bags and such, the canvas wrapping the wolves presents itself to his attention. He closes up the portable hole, then opens it along the wall of the cave in whatever spot appears convenient, and says, "Hey, Feng, Rond - someone want to take these winter wolves out and skin them, or whatever you were going to do?" He waits until the wolf obstacles are removed, then gets into the portable hole, retrieving the sleeping bags for himself and his friends. He even has down-filled pillows for all. The halfling also gets out his cooking pots, a couple of tripods, and the plates, cups, etc.
"We can build a small fire or two near the entrance - but not where it can be seen from outside. I've got some good food, and tea. Warm us up." He produces several piles of dry, stacked wood - as much as he figures they might need through the night, plus a little extra, as well as kindling, and tindertwigs. "This is good wood - shouldn't produce too much bad smoke at all. And it'll warm us up." He lays a few towels near the fires. He uses a towel as a fan for the smoke, to direct it out of the cave.
He lays a canvas on the stone floor, and puts one of his winter blankets on top of the canvas and under his sleeping bag. "Lots of heat can get sucked out of us from this cold stone, unless we have a bit of insulation," he explains.
Bill looks outside for some clean snow, and fills his pots, melting the snow for water for cooking and beverages. He finds a separate place to make yellow snow, and tells his friends - "Go over on this side if you wanna pee. The other side is for drinking water."
As he busies himself with making the place comfortable for himself and his friends, he lets the others see to security matters, and the setting of watches. "Just tell me which watch you want me to take, and that's fine with me."
The journalist takes a half hour to write down some highlights of the day. "It'd be nice to have a good bard with us someday, who can write good poetry, and sing good songs," he says as he enjoys his third cup of hot tea.
Renik (Fully Healed) d20+25=32 d20+10=14 d20+10=17 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 5:21:28 PM
Rubbing his gloved hands together the rogue gets to work using his tinderbox to get the wood Bill supplied alight, then sets out his bedding far enough away from the fire to avoid breathing in too much smoke.
As he does so he says "You know, losing Jared is going to have a major impact on our strategy when we come up against that Dragon. Arien, the onus will be on you to cast everyone's scrolls for them I'm afraid. Is that OK with you?"
"I suggest we each take a hour's watch at the cave entrance, with a second person minding the fire. Preventing the smoke from blowing into the cave too much, or the fire going out. That way the watcher won't get too cold or drowsy."
"I think I saw an outcropping that might provide some cover from the sharper eyes out there. If no-one objects I'll take first watch, then mind the fire, then wake the next pair."
If the others agree Renik takes up watch, hiding himself as well as he is able, and keeping his senses alert to evidence of movement (Hide 32, Listen 14, Spot 17). Once his turn is done he swaps with whoever is on fire minding duty, and after another hour wakes the next pair.
Draax (12 dmg) Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 8:14:00 PM
Draax surveys the cave and congratulates Renik on his selection. He find a nice spot to put his things and take a moment to relax. He pulls out some trail rations and offers some to anyone to wants one. "I could use a little healing if there is some available, but it not a big deal if you don't. I just need a good night of sleep to get most of my health back."
Draax says to Renik, "I will join you on first watch so the spell casters can get the uninterrupted rest they need."
He takes a sit next to the fire and place his sword on his lap and feeds the fire as needed.
Feng Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 10:41:18 PM
Feng lays down the remainder of the giants fur cloak for protection against the cold ground. Feng hopes that the cloak's thickness will enable at least a few hours of good sleep. At this time, Feng pulls a wooden box out of his pack. Inside is a collection of clean bandages and various herbs. The half-orc only removes what he needs for his most greivous wounds before returning the box to his pack.
Bill T, addendum Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 11:06:09 PM
If the stars are out - Bill takes a look at them.
"Hey, anybody going to skin these wolves? Or we just going to let them rot? You know how, Rond?"
Rond AC 16 HP 73 (bull strength +3) Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 11:43:29 PM
(ooc I'm not at home and cannot confirm skills list)
"Do they actually rot while they are in the portable hole? Worst case scenario is that we can just try to clean the skin off of the bones and then clean the meat off of skin"
Looking around and knowing the environment Rond takes a moment to judge whether building a snow wall (ooc like an igloo) would help cut down on the wind in the cave, or help to make things warmer.
Seeing Feng thinking about keeping warm along Rond asks, "What do you have to help combat the cold? I've got a couple of extra endure cold scrolls that I could help you with if you think it would help"
Thinking about the watch Rond says, " Agreed Draax. Let's post our watches like this.
Draax and Renik Rond and Bill Feng and Arien
Hobbes since you will be doing a lot of healing these next couple of days, I'm thinking we can keep you in reserve and let you have full time for recovering your spells.
If anyone prefers something else then let me know"
Arien Thursday April 3rd, 2003 1:23:30 AM
"Well being an elf I don't actually sleep so that schedule sounds fine to me. I plan to put this dragon through the same kind of treatment as that giant if I get the opportunity. I have no problem casting scrolls on people for them but lets make sure we do this before the combat ok?"
The night passes... (DMJK) Thursday April 3rd, 2003 10:46:56 AM
Rond decides against building the snow wall as it would 1) be way too much work out in the cold and would ultimately defeat the purpose of trying to stay warm and 2) be obvious a sign of the group's presence in the cave.
Watches are taken and a long night is spent in the cave. Everyone gets their rest and Hobbes has the opportunity to heal everyone before he sleeps... does he take it?
Regardless, any remaining subdual damage from the bar fight is gone by the time everyone wakes up.
On sticking his head out in the morning, Feng notes that it got colder during the night. It is also snowing.
Bill sees that flying and avoiding the giants has taken the group into the mountains toward the right of their original location. The terrain is rocky with large snow drifts in places. The snow coming down will help hide any tracks, but it could also make footing treacherous.
Bill guesses between 3 and 5 miles to the dragon's cave, and unless the group flies again, it's going to be a hard hike.
Then there are those wolf carcasses...
(I'll assume that everyone is healed to full, but we need to figure out how many scrolls or wand charges were used to do it)
Draax Thursday April 3rd, 2003 11:17:28 AM
Draax gets his gear ready and waits until everyone is ready to leave the cave before he puts out the fire and buries the ashes in under snow.
Arien Thursday April 3rd, 2003 3:24:41 PM
During his watch Arien rememorizes the spells he cast. Afterwards he makes some small talk with Feng and waits for the rest of the party to awaken.
After the rest wake up Arien walks over to the wolf carcasses and considers them a moment. "You know," he says while turning around. "It is snowing out there and its not much warmer here. I say we leave these here. Its cold enough that they wouldn't rot for a long time. Besides that I suspect that the dragon's loot will take up all the spare space we have and if we feel like bringing them along after the fight, well we can simply carry them."
(Arien is at full HP thanks to Hobbes so he doesn't need to take any hits off the wand.)
Rond Friday April 4th, 2003 12:29:42 AM
Rond spends some time in muted conversation with is friend Bill during their watch. Mostly he just reminices with his friend about where they've come.
In the morning Rond comments to the others,"Do we want to try something on the slightly drastic side? I'm assuming we'll stand out here compared to any of the animals in this area. So we're going to be spotted easily by any other giants that are out here. Bill. Do you have enough breathing tubes that we might get everyone in the hole? I'm wondering whether we should conserve spells and have just you fly, with everyone in the portable hole. It's a little risky since if you (pointing at Bill) get taken out by anything, the rest of us will be inside. But by Bill traveling alone, I would think he would be real hard to spot out here. Plus inside the hole might keep others of us a little warmer for the time being."
Bill Troublefinder Friday April 4th, 2003 4:45:44 AM
"Anything happen?" Bill asks Draax and Renik as they awaken him and Rond for the next watch.
On guard duty "Well, I've got a lot of stuff in the hole," Bill answers Rond. Then he switches to telepathic conversation - at least for his side of it, thanks to William. 'Maybe I can take some of it out, and what we need to keep for sure ... hmmm.' Bill ponders for a moment. 'Oh, yeah, I think I've got enough breathing tubes. Eight. Now, if you were to hold out your arms, and turn around in a circle - then add about three, almost four feet above your head, that's how much an empty hole holds. Can six fit in there? Well, it'd be pretty cozy. Also, we've tried carrying the portable hole with one pipe just sticking out, and that worked. But we haven't tried it with six poking out. We should see whether that works, or is just too much. We can try that first thing in the morning, if you'd like to help get the other stuff out. Rond - you're a ranger, right? Why can't you just skin a wolf?' he asks, changing the subject mid-stream. 'Like, you talk about skinning one - don't you take the skin off first, then worry about bones and meat?" Bill shivers, feeling squeamish talking about it. Those things were almost big enough to swallow half of the halfling at once. And they talked. Creepy. He looks around and listens a bit, as he should when on guard duty.
'Anyway, sorry. Couldn't Andraaxius skin 'em? Shoot. Or Feng? Shoot. It'll be a while until I let someone talk me into carrying a dead carcass again. Renik might know how.' He shivers again as he obsesses about this undone task, an extra blanket over his head and shoulders.
"Snow sure is pretty," he whispers aloud. 'We only got snow once in a while there in Windhorn Hamlet. Farmers said the water of Dragon Bay helped keep it "temperate" - kind of good for growing stuff, they'd say.' He tosses a little snowball to hit Rond in the shoulder. It just falls apart as it glances off (AC 15) - Rond may not even have felt it.
'Your idea is a good one, though, Rond. How about if I take two or three of us in one trip, along with leaving some of the stuff here, and take some along and leave it there, then come back for the rest? If the multiple breathing pipes thing works. Let's test it in the morning, all right? Maybe I can wrap myself in white - in one of the canvas sheets - so I blend in to the background a little. If it keeps snowing, that should shorten the distance we can be seen. Also, I maybe could pick a route that would keep mainly out of sight of the valley.'
After a period of silence, Bill asks his tall friend, 'Do you suppose the white will be fearsome, Rond? Remember when the head was stolen, all of them flying overhead, and the black fighting all the militia? It was terrible. But then, there are the good ones, too... Wonder what'll happen to this area if it dies. Will anyone miss it?'
Changing of the Guard "Rise and watch, big guy," he shakes Feng's shoulder gently, ready to jump back if the righteous warrior should think him an assailant. "Arien's waiting for you. Quiet night, so far. Snowing. Keep the fire going."
Breakfast and organization and experimentation Bill fixes some hot cereal for everyone, glopping it into bowls, and offering spices for those who want them. He also passes out chunks of cheese. "This'll help keep your energy up in the cold," he says. "Keep it in a pocket or something, and bite off a chunk or two from time to time."
"Say, Rond made a real interesting suggestion last night. How about if a couple or three of you get in the portable hole, and use the breathing tubes? We'll keep it closed, with just, say, three tubes poking out at once, and see if we can't carry it along, and you can still get the air you need. Then, if that works, he was thinking I could sort of ferry you to pretty close to where the map says the white's lair is. I was thinking three at a time." He reminds them also about the equipment he carries, and asks whether they should leave anything behind for the time being, or not, lest it draw attention to the cave.
He works with some of them to see whether more than one pipe can be used at a time. "Oh, and it's real dark in there. I have some more sunrods. We'll just have one lit in there when we really get going." He works through several tests, each of longer duration, if the early tests seem to indicate the basic plan is sound. If no more than one pipe can work at a time, he says, "Well, can you take turns breathing?" He is not too optimistic about more than two or three sharing one pipe.
He also asks Arien and Hobbes whether either one has memorized a dispel magic or something like it. "Could be useful against the white," he offers.
The practical hobbit also asks, now that they're closer to their objective, what ideas people have for surreptitiously locating the dragon.
Hobbes Friday April 4th, 2003 5:21:18 AM
After burning off his last spell to make sure everyone is healed up, Hobbes plods to a high point in the back of the cave and curls up under his cloak. He watches the clouds float by in the distance through the cave entrance. He himself flew from the power of Gargul for the first time as a pure cleric. He keeps his eyes on the clouds, wondering when it will be his turn to meet his maker. As his eyes get heavy, he observes the silhouttes of two figures gesturing and talking to each other at the entrance. Finally he nods off to sleep awaiting a new day of newly memorized spells. (which includes several cold protection spells and a token Dispel Magic).
Renik Friday April 4th, 2003 7:17:04 AM
The rogue blinks awake as dawn breaks. "Cold." he mumbles, gathering up his things bleary eyed. He kicks a stone petulantly. "Too cold." He scowls as he pulls out a mirror and examines himself. "Why are there no baths out here? Just look at my hair."
Renik is clearly not a morning person.
He agrees that the portable hole idea might be the quickest and safest route, though he does suggest that Bill is made invisible for the duration of the trip. "If you get caught alone Bill, we would all be in serious trouble. How about you keep one hand on the breathing tubes, and yank if you encounter trouble?"
Plans (DMJK) Friday April 4th, 2003 9:32:57 AM
Breakfast, plans, and a discussion of breathing tubes...
Bill Troublefinder Friday April 4th, 2003 6:05:03 PM
Bill opens the portable hole, and asks, "Okay, I need three volunteers." As soon as he has people's attention, he says, "First - make sure you don't have on you any extra dimensional items. Like those gloves that store an item, or a bag of holding, of Heward's haversack. That type of thing." He points to the canvas which holds the breathing pipes within. "Each grab one, and, as soon as we have three people, cross the tops of them near the top. I'll close up the hole, and keep it shut about two minutes. Plug your nose, so you only use the tube for breathing. Let's see if it works." He awaits the first three to get in.
"Okay, while these three are trying this out, someone else start skinning this wolf here." He points to the smaller of the two.
Renik Saturday April 5th, 2003 3:39:05 PM
Renik raises his hand. "I volunteer. Only let's get a move on. The longer we hang around, the more chance we have of something finding us."
He takes the breathing tube and climbs into the hole.
Arien Saturday April 5th, 2003 7:26:53 PM
"While I don't have dispel magic memorized I do have a scroll of it, scribed by a fairly powerful mage as well. I'd volunteer Bill but I have that haversack that does the same thing as the hole which could result in something bad should one enter the other. Oh and before I forget, Feng take this," Arien hands the paladin a potion of heroism. "I also have a potion of Fire Breath if anyone would like to use that. I for one don't plan on getting that close to the dragon. If anyone doesn't have a means to protect themselves from fire I also have an extra potion of protection from fire. Anyway I second Renik's thought, lets get this show on the road."
Bill addresses Arien's concern, lest others have similar misapprehensions Saturday April 5th, 2003 9:37:56 PM
"You don't understand, Arien. I'm not asking you to leave behind your haversack. Y'see, I can carry it on my back, or on my chest," Bill explains to his friend, the mage. "Might even help me stay warmer, that way. You give it to me, I carry it, you ride inside. It only weighs about five pounds or so, empty or full, right?"
Arien admires Arien's foresight on some of the potions he brought. When he mentions the fire breath potion, Bill says that he'll take it, unless someone else wants to use it. "I understand it can cause indigestion. Although, wouldn't that dragon be amazed if, as Feng or Rond stood toe to claw against it, he suddenly breathed forth flames?" He giggles at the thought.
And addressing another expressed concern, he adds, "Renik, I don't have any problem with your idea of invisibility - except that I have one potion, and it only lasts a short time - not long enough for two round trips on my part. Probably just long enough for one way, one time. Let's say it takes me 20 to 30 minutes for each leg of the trip. Anybody have invisibility that'll last two hours or so? Let me know if you do, and I'll be happy to use it. If all of us traipse there as a group, I'll bet we're a whole lot more visible than the littlest one flying. I can cover myself in white canvas."
Meanwhile, from wood and canvas, fishing wire and rope, Bill works to fashion an air scoop, to help ram air down two of the three breathing tubes. "Two for intake, one for exhaust," he explains.
Once there are three in the hole, and it be shown that all can breathe, Bill is ready to take them near the lair. He points out on the mountain to his friends where he figures, according to the map, they should go, if, with the present snowfall, they can see that far. "I'll leave William behind with one of you, so we can communicate until I'm more 'n a mile away," he offers.
Draax Sunday April 6th, 2003 11:27:20 PM
Draax takes a look inside the portable hole and it is obvious by the look on his face that he does not like the idea of traveling inside. After about a minute of taking a hard look at the hole he removes his Quiver of Ehlonna and grabs a breathing pipe. After plugging his nose he puts the pipe in his mouth and climbs in.
Rond d20=7 Monday April 7th, 2003 8:04:43 AM
(ooc I'm not sure what skill it would be for skinning an animal. I'm short on time otherwise I'd make sure myself. Rond doesn't have it as a trained skill that I'm aware of).
"I can work on the skinning if no one else can." (generic skill check of 7)
"I have scrolls, potions, and my sword as my magical items. I don't think I should have any problems with the hole.
Now that those three have volunteered the rest of us will wait for Bill's return"
breathing (DMJK) Monday April 7th, 2003 3:52:14 PM
Breathing doesn't seem to be a problem with the tubes and several party members can fit down inside the hole.
Communication is a problem though. The tubes can be pulled in or out very easily, and they can transmit a minimal amount of sound. That's about it though. William seems to be the best solution, but the lack of air in the hole prevents anyone in it from being able to speak to each other.
Meanwhile, Rond tries skinning the winterwolf. He botches up the first one and tears the skin in several places, so much so that it's probably not usable for anything but rags or patchwork.
Renik Monday April 7th, 2003 5:33:10 PM
Breathing through a tube in the airless interior of the bag, Renik waits impatiently for the signal that they have reached their destination.
Hobbes Monday April 7th, 2003 9:05:28 PM
Hobbes scowls down at the bag, uneasy.
"And how are they to get out? Doesn't that require someone to pull them out from outside? Have you the strength, Bill? That makes me uneasy thinking that one slip could trap everyone inside."
He goes over to the wolf and pick up the front end and spreads it out a bit more in an attempt to help Rond.
Hobbes' wolf help d20+1=13 Monday April 7th, 2003 9:07:52 PM
[Generic Dex check to Help Rond's next roll by 2.]
Feng Monday April 7th, 2003 11:24:23 PM
Feng agrees to climb in the hole. It's protected from the cold and will speed up travel. He has faith that eerything will work out. Bill might be able to sneak into the dragon's lair undetected. There is a small chance that he can set some type of ambush.
Draax Monday April 7th, 2003 11:47:47 PM
Draax waits inside the hole, trying to think about anything except being in the hole. He does a mental check of his inventory just to keep his mind on something else.
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday April 8th, 2003 1:38:48 AM
He pulls out a scroll of endure elements, cold, and asks Arien if he would do the honors of reading it, to fortify Bill from the cold. "That wind'll help cool me off, for sure, so this should help."
"Ah, three brave souls - Renik, Draax and Feng." While the bag is open (allowing air freely to circulate), and just before departure, Bill says, "Catch, Renik," and drops his psicrystal, William, into Renik's hand in the portable hole. He strikes a sunrod, and drops it down for his friends to have light. He closes up the handkerchief-like cloth, verifies that he can communicate bidirectionally with William, and through him, with his friends inside. 'Can you hear me, William? Testing, testing. Tell our frieds with you, "Don't get gas,"' he suggests to William. Then he opens the hole, asking them what William just told them. If something resembling his message is what they answer, then he, satisfied, recloses the hole, save the three tubes, and says, "Say your prayers, all. We're off."
With a portion of one of the white canvas tarps he brought wrapped around him (he cut off enough amply to cover him, but not leave flapping pieces), Bill empowers himself to fly. "Alemi, Domi, and Gargul be with us all, and Wardd to boot!" he says to Rond, Hobbes and Arien as he takes off. "I should be back in forty minutes to an hour, and all go well," he says. He sets down an hourglass, sand in the top. "Once half the sand is run out, make yourselves ready to leave," he suggests. And, to no one but himself, he invokes the good will of the One, the Perfect, the Initiator, to watch over him and his friends.
Since William himself can 'see' telepathically, he requests an occasional report on how the other three with him seem to be faring. If William reports a definite problem, Bill will seek a place to land and open the bag to remedy the situation - unless it's just gas.
Along the way, Bill picks a low flight path designed to afford as little line-of-sight exposure as possible to the valley below. If the visibility is low, he also works to keep his eyes and ears alert, looking often left, right, above, behind him in the various directions. He communicates telepathically via William with Draax, Feng and Renik, telling them what he sees, noting salient points of the local geography, spotting good hiding places, etc. He also looks as they draw near the place where the map indicates the dragon's lair to be, and checks to see if there might be a good place to slide down the face of the mountain with some measure of safety, should the need arise. Is there a smooth slope, or is it rough and rugged? Also along the way, he occasionally uses autohypnosis to memorize whatever might appear useful.
He visually scouts about, looking for as safe a place as he might find to set down, which would afford his friends a measure of cover, yet not require inordinate distance or challenges to allow them to move to their goal.
The halfling telepaths them when he is about to open the portable hole. He describes the area, and suggests they keep themselves quiet once he lays open the bag. He leaves them a 15'x15' square of canvas. 'Sit upon it, wrap yourselves in it - three are better than one - you can help keep each other warm,' they hear in their minds. Bill gives them a hand sign of success, followed by the closed right fist across the chest that some followers of Domi use to signify courage. Somewhat divided as to whether to bring William back with him, or to leave the crystal with the three here, he opts for the latter. 'Until I am greater than a mile from here, William can speak to me,' he tells them. "I'll be back."
He is similarly attentive on the return trip, taking in all that he might. Once back, he retrieves Arien, Hobbes, and Rond, and the hourglass. He assures them of the safety of the first trip. He leaves whatever cavekeeping need be done to the second three. "I'll not be able to communicate with you as I did the first three, as William is with them. But if aught goes wrong, then thrust a pipe out. I should notice that, and set down, and we'll see what needs be done."
Unless his first trip taught him that a different flight path would be better, he follows the same way, watching before and behind, above and to the sides, alternating his pattern in a somewhat random fashion.
Should all arrive safely, Bill asks, 'All right. Now what?'
Arien Tuesday April 8th, 2003 2:24:57 AM
Nodding his assent Arien takes the scroll from Bill and uses it on Bill. After Bill leaves Arien makes sure to keep an eye out for any more possible ambushes until Bill gets back. When Bill returns Arien makes sure to hand Bill his haversack before entering the portable hole.
planning (DMJK) Tuesday April 8th, 2003 10:45:38 AM
As Bill tries to communicate with William while the bag is closed he finds that it feels like William is miles away. The communication takes effort and concentration, and Bill gets the feeling that if the tubes weren't sticking out, it would be impossible to reach the psicrystal. As it is, the others in the group hear him. He flies out and about and enjoys the weather a bit.
Inside the sack really blows. It's hot. You have to keep sucking on a tube that's filled with ice cold air. And, it's really cramped. Bill's short trip seems like it takes hours and hours. You're all hungry by the time you get back.
Hobbes and Rond work on skinning the second wolf and do a slightly better job, but they don't have any equipment to tan the hide. Even if they did, would they know how?
Draax Tuesday April 8th, 2003 12:19:59 PM
Draax is very happy to finally get out of the hole, he takes a couple a deep breath while scanning their new surroundings. He readies his bow and reaches to take an arrow from his quiver. He looks around quickly for his quiver and then sent a mentally message to Bill via William. "Remember to bring my quiver on the return trip and do not put it in the hole. I am not sure if it is on the same line as other dimensional carriers, but it does have a extra dimensional space inside it."
Renik d20+10=18 d20+10=22 d20+25=28 d20+15=18 d20+10=27 Tuesday April 8th, 2003 4:01:04 PM
Arriving at their new location closer to the Dragon's lair, Renik quickly checks all his gear is secure, then scouts the surrounding area, keeping low and to cover, with his bow at the ready (Spot 18, Listen 22, Hide 28, Move Silent 18).
As he waits for the others to arrive he tries to locate the entrance to the dragon's lair (Spot 27).
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday April 8th, 2003 8:30:07 PM
[OOC: When writing so much - sometimes I forget to write down a detail or two - even though I had thought to include it! In my mind, Bill had brought along the quiver of Ehlonna for Draax - but I didn't write that he had done so. Sigh. OK, I'm going to pretend like he did.]
Bill reaches under the canvas, and hands Draax the quiver of Ehlonna before returning to the cave.
"Maybe we should bury the bodies under the snow somewhere, and the fur in another spot - or bring it along, if you don't mind having it wrapped in the bloody canvas," he suggests to the three back in the cave. "Up to you, though." If they decide to get the carcasses out of the cave and cover them with snow, then Bill helps them. If they bury the skins (preferably separate from the bodies), canvas-wrapped, he also assists. Otherwise, he brings the wrapped skins in the canvas along. [Your call, Rond, Hobbes & Arien.]
"By the way, Hobbes - you'll see that inside the portable hole are chests and such that you can sit on, or stand upon. It's not too much trouble for tall people like you to get out, and, with all the gear I have in there, I can stack things, and climb up and out. Oh, guys, by the way - the first three said it seemed to take hours, and it was hot and stuffy inside, except for the really cold air they got to breathe. So, I don't promise you comfort." He repeats the instructions about pushing a pipe out a bit should there be problems within.
Bill makes sure the three bring no extradimensional items into the portable hole (he detects magic on them - paying particular attention to gloves, backpacks, pouches and pants pockets - making careful inquiries about their nature before letting them inside) - mounts Arien's haversack on his chest - all the way from his shoulders to the ground - re-covers himself with the white canvas, and returns to the dragon's mountain, as previously described.
Rond Tuesday April 8th, 2003 11:08:52 PM
"I'm of a mixed mind at this point. We don't want to take too much time right now, in case our other friends get into any kind of trouble."
Rond will then climb into the hole after the discussion has ended.
Closer - DMJK Wednesday April 9th, 2003 11:32:05 AM
Bill gets the group to the mountain where he thinks the dragon's lair is supposed to be. While he feels he followed the instructions correctly and knows that he memorized the map properly, whoever drew the map in the first place didn't draw one that looks like this place. It was a map in the broadscale, pointing out the coast and general landmarks. Now that they're in the environment, it's different.
The initial description of the location of the dragon's lair was better than the map. Bill finds the 3 peaks Hororot discussed. Essentially, the map is worthless now. Bill's trying to use a map on a national level drawn from the memory of someone else 50 years ago to find a shop in a town today.
He finds the mountain, but the side of it has several opening that could possibly lead to a dragon's lair. It's going to take some searching probably by someone going inside them.
The mountain is huge and imposing. The peak is snow covered and rocky. There is no vegetation on it. At times the slope is relatively gentle, but there are areas where it suddenly drops off in a sheer drop. The snow is deep, and while no one really has a knowledge of such things, it looks like an area prone to avalanches.
Bill decides to put everyone in a protected area perhaps 200 feat down from the peak.It will be easier to descend than to climb, and there isn't as likely a possibility of running into a giant patrol. He chooses the leeward side and sets folks down.
As the first group waits for the second to arrive, they have a chance to look around a bit. They quickly discover that the air is thin, and they have to breathe a little harder to do anything (-1 to everyone's CON unless you have something to counteract).
There are no paths or trails. No animal tracks. No dragon signs. The climb to the peak looks very steep, but there don't appear to be any caves or openings up there. There's a good path for climbing down, but maybe everyone could just sit back and send Bill flying around to all the caves on the mountain.
And since I didn't hear any complaining, the second group arrives and everyone is there.
Draax Wednesday April 9th, 2003 11:04:53 PM
Draax is out of his element being in the mountains and the snow. He has no idea how to find the dragon besides checking in each cave. His only suggestion to the others is to look for openings that are large enough for a dragon to pass through,
Bill Troublefinder d20+18=22 d20+18=28 d20+18=30 d20+18=27 d20+18=25 d20+18=22 d20+18=28 d20+18=34 d20+18=22 d20+18=29 Wednesday April 9th, 2003 11:08:26 PM
"Boy, a lungful of air doesn't go as far as usual, does it?" Bill observes, finding himself breathing a bit more vigorously than usual.
"How about I help one other person to fly, and the two of us act like forward scouts?" he asks. "Then some others of us can maybe do some exploring by walking around."
Bill mentally maps the area, and areas he explores (10 autohypnosis rolls above for gathering and retaining his mental images). He also empowers himself to know location, getting a solid psychic fix* on where they are.
Whichever person the others agree to have him help on the flight exploration team, he empowers to fly (it lasts 3 hours, 90' movement). He has about an hour of flying time left, himself.
He suggests to his partner - and, if acceptable, carries out with him the following: Flying first to the peak of the mountain, checking that out, they then descend in a spiral about the mountain, noting any areas of interest, in particular whatever may look like points of ingress. Before entering any such area, he detects magic, lest a magical ward or trap get him, and briefly activates his ring of blinking as he takes a preliminary probe into a promising opening.
William he leaves with Rond & company (or Renik & company, if Rond is the one who accompanies him), so as to be able to stay in touch with the main group. He also leaves with them some rope, asking whether they want 150 feet or 300 feet. "Might be an idea to each make a loop in your belt, and run this length of rope through it. If one person falls, the rest can brace, and maybe keep him from sliding down too far." He leaves it to the group to figure out any details of such an endeavor.
After about 50 to 55 minutes of exploring (or sooner than that, should he discover something of great interest in less time), the psion-nomad returns to the group, so that they might decide together the next steps to take.
[* OOC: Is anything psychic really solid???]
Rond d20+8=12 d20+7=21 Thursday April 10th, 2003 12:06:00 AM
trying to keep his voice down Rond searches his memories for any clues about the locale. (knowledge (nature) = 12. Quickly telling the members about what he knows, he gazes around the countryside to make sure that there's nothing obvious going on (spot 21).
"Since we do not know much about the area or the creature, I would think that you (Bill) should check out the nearest cave and see if there's a place where all of us can hole up as we look around and decide what we want to do. I'm not enthused about us being exposed on the mountainside without knowing more of what's going on."
Arien Thursday April 10th, 2003 12:42:11 AM
"Too bad we don't have any dwarves with us, they could lick a rock and tell you the size, shape and direction of any cave within a league."
As he speaks Arien retrieves his haversack and pulls a length of cloth out which ties about his head, covering his nose and mouth from the cold as much as he can. Making sure the knot is secure Arien pulls the his hood back up and slings his pack over a shoulder.
"Well lets get a move on shall we? Only thing we can catch here is a cold."
Renik d20+10=17 d20+10=18 d20+4=21 d20+4=11 d20+25=27 d20+15=18 Thursday April 10th, 2003 2:39:33 AM
"Bill, I'll tag along with you. Let's go."
The rogue keeps low to the ground, uses the cover well, and searches for any sign of a suitable cave to explore. Should he find one he examines the ground for tracks, bones or droppings, all the while keeping as quiet as possible and out of sight. All the while he keeps his thoughts to himself, his face grim. Could it be he is pondering just how close he came to death?
Post exploring (DMJK) d6=2 Thursday April 10th, 2003 11:08:34 AM
The group left behind moves forward and occupies the first easily accessible cave while they wait for Bill and Renik to get back. This keeps them out of the brunt of the elements.
Bill stops after his hour which managed to get him about a third of the way down the mountain. He identified 3 possible caves.
Renik feels like coming back after an hour, but he has more flight time left. It's really freaking cold flying around the mountain. The chill is getting into his bones. After an hour, Renik must make a cold check (fort DC 15 or 2 points subdual damage).
Following that first check, he has to make a check every 10 minutes with the DC increasing by 1 each time(unless he has some sort of magical protection). Roll for however long you want to stay out searching.
Checking a different area of the mountain than Bill, Renik spots 2 likely caves in his first hour. Perhaps there are more farther down the mountain.
Bill Troublefinder (Endure elements, cold) Thursday April 10th, 2003 4:23:31 PM
Bill reports in to the group, telling them what he discerned of the openings he found. The idea was that he would have probed each one a little bit, to see if it was just a shallow opening, or if it appeared to penetrate deeper into the mountain.
"Maybe we can have Renik fly us to some of the places," he suggests. "I wonder if it is still here," he also wonders aloud.
When Renik returns, Bill notes the chattering of his teeth. Chagrined, he says sheepishly, "Oh, sorry, Renik. I thought you would have had some sort of protection against the cold before flying off with me. Moving so fast against the cold air, it can really get into your bones." He takes out a scroll of endure elements, cold, for Arien to read and apply to Renik.
"B-b-better late than n-never!" shivers the rogue to Bill with a chattering grin, having returned after an hour. "I spotted 2 caves, so sure, we could go back and check them out, along with the ones you saw. If none of those pan out we can go on hunting for more caves."
"Ooh! That's better!" he adds as the scroll kicks in and he feels warmth flood back into his chilled extremeties.
During any exploration of the caves that takes place, Renik will take point, searching carefully for evidence of a suitable lair entrance, drawing upon all his father taught him of reading the land. As he moves he seems to become almost invisible, flitting from rock to rock in almost total silence.
Arien Thursday April 10th, 2003 5:42:41 PM
Arien uses the scroll on Renik and turns to the others. "This spell lasts about a day, so unless you think we won't be fighting the dragon today I say that everyone who has one should give me their scrolls and I'll use them for them. I also have a pair of endure elements: fire for whoever is going to go toe to toe with the dragon to help protect them from any accidental fire balling."
(OOC: Did anyone take the potion of fire breathing? I need to know so I can modify my character sheet accordingly.)
Bill (answer for Arien & all) Thursday April 10th, 2003 6:53:48 PM
[Bill earlier said he would take the potion of fire breathing from Arien, unless someone else requested it. So, unless someone else requests it by JK's next post, Bill has it in his pants pocket. I'd be happy were someone else to take it and plan to use it, though.]
Feng Thursday April 10th, 2003 11:01:56 PM
Not being a very stealthy person, Feng hangs in the back and waits for the reconnisance to get finished. He glances at his ring of jumping knowing that he would risk a jump or two if trouble occurred.
Rond Thursday April 10th, 2003 11:20:48 PM
Waiting for the others to report, Rond gives his scroll of endure cold over to Arien to read, along with the scroll for cats grace. "Bill I can take that potion of fire breathing. I've also got a scroll of haste that i'll use when we're ready."
Draax Friday April 11th, 2003 8:30:16 AM
Draax wipes his blade with an oiled rag as he waits to see how they will proceed. He also runs the rag over he bow string and pulls the string to keep it flexible.
DMJK Friday April 11th, 2003 10:16:42 AM
The three large openings that Bill found all extend into the mountain a bit. So do Renik's.
It is quite possible that they are all part of the same tunnel network, but who knows without investigating?
Renik, Rond, and presumably Arien get their endure element spells in place, and Rond takes the breathe fire potion.
Anything else before setting off?
Hobbes d4+1=4 Saturday April 12th, 2003 5:47:07 AM
Hobbes' entire body has been hidden within his garments for this half of the trip and mostly silent.
Then, slowly he walks forward toward Feng, his hands outstetched and mumbles several things deep within his robes. Placing a hand on either side, several small pools of light blue light coarse out of his hands and into Feng.
[Hobbes cast Endrance on Feng - +4 to his CON, then Hobbes cast Endure Elements - Cold on Feng]
He unsnaps the front of his veil and says, "There, hopefully we won't have to worry so much about you, old man." Turning to the others he asks, "Who does NOT have an Endure or Resist Elements - Cold on them? I will target whoever of you needs it once we start."
"Now, Bill, please do me the honor of drwaing precisely what the crown and sword look like for me using that mind of yours. I can locate the object magically. Once I do I can then summon a divine ally to retrive it if it is unattainable by us." He pauses, "albeit wei'll have to bargain for such a deal...and finally I have additional magic which can divine the answer to a question, which might be handy right now for which tunnel to use."
Renik Sunday April 13th, 2003 9:19:25 AM
Raising an eyebrow the rogue smiles. "Nice trick, Hobbes, very handy. Once we know where the items are and which route to take I'll have some scrolls for you to cast on me, Arien. Just one thing, Hobbes; I'd rather take down this dragon if we can, rather than using your divine servant to steal it. Perhaps if we set up an ambush, then send in the divine servant to steal the sword and crown, and in the process lure the dragon to us? If we were all magically prepared, invisible and flying we could really give big white a nasty shock."
Draax Sunday April 13th, 2003 12:16:15 PM
Draax listens to the conversations and although he would love to get in and out without fighting the dragon, he finds himself nodding in agreement with Renik's suggestion. He smiles when he realizes why he would prefer killing the dragon. The thought of treasure can really play havoc with a warrior's common sense. He adds his opinion to the conversation. "I do not know much about dragons, but if they are as intelligence as everyone says they are, there is probably more than one entrance/exit to its lair. It would be nice if we could find more than one. And since no battle goes exactly the way it is planned. Should we have a place to meet if we are separated or should we try to get back to the wizard's safe-cave?"
Arien Sunday April 13th, 2003 12:23:33 PM
"Not a problem Renik, after all I am the wizard of the group after all. If anyone else wants to have scrolls used for them just let me know."
Rond Sunday April 13th, 2003 10:07:57 PM
"Depending upon how many questions you can have, do you think we could find out the most useful items to help us against the dragon?"
When Arien asks about the scrolls for anyone to read, Rond continues holding out the scrolls that he's been waiting for Arien to take.
Feng Sunday April 13th, 2003 11:11:32 PM
"Thank you Hobbes. The Giant's cloak has helped but it is still rather cold."
Feng listens to the proposed plans and adds his own perspective, "I don't think we should worry about killing or not killing the dragon. Our objective is the crown and sword. Whatever happens to the dragon, even if there is one, should depend on what happens."
Bill Troublefinder Monday April 14th, 2003 10:21:50 AM
"Sure, Hobbes," Bill answers. "Just a sec'." From his bag of holding he withdraws a smaller bag, and from within that he extracts his current journal. He carefully opens it to the page where he had sketched the sword and crown, and shows it to the cleric.
He nods his head at Feng's observation. "If the white is here, my hope is that we'll have a clue before we awaken it, or alert it, so we can really make the preparations, and take the precautions, that will help keep us alive should we have to go against it. We might find it in the next half hour, or it might take all day, or longer. Quiet scouting will be in our best interest."
Bill waits for whatever it is that Hobbes is able to find out before making the next move. Meanwhile, he jots a few notes in his journal.
Hobbes' Plan (DMJK) Monday April 14th, 2003 10:47:02 AM
Hobbes warms up Feng and outlines his idea of a plan for dealing with the dragon and finding its lair and treasure.
With the endure elements spells in place, everyone feels much more comfortable.
Bill gets the image of the sword and crown placed in Hobbes' mind. Both of them realize that they only have a relief carving in a centuries old stone sarcophagus to judge by. Details like what sorts of gems are placed in the crown or what the reverse side of the sword might look like are left to the imagination. It gives enough of an idea that you could select the proper sword out of a group, but whether or not it will be enough for Hobbes' spell to find it remains to be seen.
As Hobbes outlines his plan, it seems that the group has dealt with two of its problems: the cold and how to find the dragon's lair. Of course getting to the dragon's lair and retreiving the items will still be the most difficult part.
Renik Monday April 14th, 2003 6:38:54 PM
"So Hobbes, cast your spells and let us see if you can determine the location of our foe, and the most efficacious route to it."
The rogue digs into his pack and readies the scrolls he wishes to pass to Arien.
Arien Monday April 14th, 2003 7:04:35 PM
Double checking that the scrolls handed to him were meant to be cast now and not later Arien then casts the scrolls as Hobbes' tries to locate the items they were searching for.
Bill Troublefinder Monday April 14th, 2003 11:45:49 PM
Bill does some more writing.
Hobbes Tuesday April 15th, 2003 6:07:43 AM
Hobbes looks a bit surprised, "Oh, you mean you want me to do this now? Very well. I was merely telling you all what I have in the way of resources. Well, if you want me to cast it, I surely will, but let us discuss precisely what we're asking."
[The Spells in question are Divination, Locate Object, and Lesser Planar Ally. Feel free to give suggestions as to what to ask and whether you'd rather wait about casting such things. Perhaps this would be a good email conversation.]
He turns to Feng, "To you and I, Feng, our objective is the crown and sword, but I think we're outvoted. I think the others wish to kill the dragon to achieve the sword and crown goal. At least that's what I'm hearing. They wish its horde."
Rond Tuesday April 15th, 2003 7:15:56 AM
"I suspect that we're going to have no choice about the matter. If there was a way to find out if the Dragon would miss the crown and sword then I'd contemplate sending in the Ally. But I fully expect that we'd be better off trying to catch the Dragon by suprise and just defeating it. Because if the Dragon will miss the what we're searching for, then it just means that he comes looking for the stuff whenever it gets taken. Worst case scenario, he comes after the people in the Windorn Hamlett. Or do you want to ask whether the Dragon is somehow beneficial to the Wold? If it's beneficial to the Wold then again we could leave it be?!"
Plans - DMJK Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:30:38 AM
Hobbes explains his spells and waits for a little input from the group.
Arien Tuesday April 15th, 2003 3:24:07 PM
"I suspect that Feng would like to battle the beast as well. After all isn't it all paladin's dreams to vanquish evil whenever they might? Anyway, maybe your spell can get us a general idea to search in, you know narrow it down. That would save us some time and energy, so if you could just cast that divination spell we could be on our way." Arien waits a bit impatiently for Hobbes to cast the spell.
Renik Tuesday April 15th, 2003 6:29:07 PM
"Hey, he's your God, Hobbes." smiles the rogue. "You ask him whatever you think he'll answer."
Draax Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:31:39 PM
Draax is happy to go along with anything that could help the group locate the dragon sooner. He wishes that he could give Hobbes a suggestion on what to ask, but he is unfamiliar with what Hobbes will be doing and have nothing to offer.
Feng Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:59:52 PM
"Wishing to slay the beast may be a little premature. We know nothing about this dragon, let alone if it even excists. I doubt anybody would like to battle a dragon that is hundreds of years old. I would like the beast slain, but at what cost? It would be ignorant to believe that everybody would make it out alive. Let's say for one moment that we manage to kill the beast with no casualties. After such a battle how easy would it be to sneak past the now angry giants?"
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday April 16th, 2003 4:14:59 AM
Bill ponders Hobbes' description of the spells he considers casting. "Well, with the ally fellow, maybe you can get a fire elemental to warm up the white's spine, for instance, or some sort of good fellow to help keep us healed up in the midst of battle, or an air critter to keep the air fog free, or to blow the white's breath back in its face, that type of thing. Or grab the two items while we've got the beast occupied, so that what we're doing doesn't turn 'em into slag. What good would that do to the old king?
"For the divination ... hmmm..." He places his forefinger on his chin and twists it around a few times. "I dunno. 'What would be the best approach within our means to overcome the guardian of Hororot's sword and crown?' for instance." When he said 'Hororot's' - he dropped his voice considerably, so that the king's name was whispered.
"And for the location of the two things you saw my sketch of - Oh, I almost forgot!" The halfling pulls out some parchments from his bag of holding, and shows Hobbes the rubbings he made of the items. "This is more life-sized. That is, at least, if the artistic representation on the sarcophagus accurately matched the real things. So, I guess you kind of think about them, and then figure out where they are? I'll leave that to you. How about you decide which one to cast first, and see what you get back, before you go usin' up all three at once? Maybe like either the divination - that'd be my first one - or the locate object... not a bad choice, either."
Bill looks up to Hobbes, to see what he decides to do next.
Rond Wednesday April 16th, 2003 8:07:13 AM
Not being a spellcaster, Rond is unsure what he can add to the conversation. He'll let the others talk about solutions, hoping that things will resolve themselves shortly.
DMJK Wednesday April 16th, 2003 11:45:18 AM
The group walks is it talks over plans and as Hobbes thinks about his spells.
One thing quickly becomes crystal clear. No matter which cave the dragon's lair is in, the group is going to have to climb down to it or have Bill fly everyone again.
The first cave is nearby, but there is a small dropoff of about 20 feet that you'll all have to climb down in order to get there. It's rocky and covered in ice in places.
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday April 16th, 2003 2:10:11 PM
Bill puts away his journal, in which he drew a few maps, and says, "Renik, while Hobbes is thinking things over, let's take a look in the cave down here. Could you ferry us down?" He makes the portable hole available, removes his outer pants, ties them to the outside of his backpack, hands the small backpack to Renik, and says to everyone else, "Climb in, and let's go." He climbs in to the opening of the portable hole.
Once down at the entrace to the first cave, Bill begins, with Renik and whoever else deems himself stealthy enough to perform reconnaissance, cautiously to explore.
Renik (Still flying) d20+15=34 d20+25=34 d20+4=14 d20+10=11 d20+5=24 d20+10=27 Wednesday April 16th, 2003 6:09:33 PM
"No problem Bill" nods the rogue, and floats the party down carrying the portable hole. Once down he helps everyone out of the hole, motions for a degree of silence, and moves off down into the cave carefully, hunting for evidence that it may serve as an entrance for a dragon. He scouts ahead for several minutes, taking care to draw no attention to himself, and keep every sense alert for evidence of danger. He then heads back and reports any findings to the others, keeping his voice low.
Rond d20+14=27 d20+14=22 d20+7=12 d20+2=18 d20+1=20 Wednesday April 16th, 2003 11:59:04 PM
"I can probably help out with the scouting when we get there"
With that Rond climbs into the portable hole. When he gets pulled out on the other side, Rond moves into place and looks around as best he can.
To the cave (DMJK) Thursday April 17th, 2003 10:52:27 AM
As Hobbes drifts in his thoughts, the group makes it down to the first cave.
The mouth is probably 80 feet across and 45 feet tall. Just big enough for a dragon to squeeze through, you imagine. Of course, Bill and Renik saw a few others that were comparable as they searched the mountain.
The cave maintains the same dimensions as it opens up into the mountain. It heads straight back some 200 feet before it bends to the right and starts to slope down.
If you follow it around, you will definitely need some sort of light. It's already a little dim after the 200 feet.
No one detects or spots anything out of the ordinary. It's a cave. It's cold. There are lots of icy patches, so footing could be treacherous if you weren't careful.
Draax Thursday April 17th, 2003 4:53:48 PM
Draax exits the hole and stands guard waiting for the scouts to return with news of what they find.
Bill Troublefinder Thursday April 17th, 2003 8:12:48 PM
Bill uses a sun rod to light the way ahead. He sends a mental missive to Renik. Of course, carrying a light source might make it harder to hide. 'Can I sit on your shoulders while you fly?' Psicrystal William he left behind with Feng, so that he can pass on telepathic reports via the little feller to the four friends who wait behind.
Rond Friday April 18th, 2003 6:44:04 AM
Looking around Rond decides it might be a little icy for him to move about. He decides to let Renik do whatever scouting and waits to see what the party can do next.
Hobbes d100=52 Friday April 18th, 2003 7:40:31 AM
Hobbes has been reflective for quite awhile as if he were remembering, and occasionally reciting, something.
The rest of the party smells a sweet fragrant smell coming from a strange-looking candleholder in his left hand. In great circles he wields it while sprinling the ground with coins from his other hand uttering a chant in a deep tone.
[Divination. Roll is a success. Speaking Celestial to my god, translated into "Oh Gargul, Which is the way that will lead us quickest to finding the Crown and Sword of which the Hororot spoke when he gave us this quest?"]
Renik d20+25=27 d20+15=16 d20+10=29 d20+5=9 d20+2=17 Friday April 18th, 2003 8:23:06 AM
The rogue whispers back to Bill "OK, hop on up and light my way, but keep the light mostly covered. If I tug on your trouser leg cover it completely."
He awaits the results of Hobbes' divination to be relayed bt Bill and William, and assuming this cave is the best path he continues. If not he flies himself and Bill to the best cave, and heads into that one.
He flies down into the cave, descending further into the icy darkness. He keeps to the shadows and all senses are on full alert, wary for the slightest hint of danger.
Bill Troublefinder Friday April 18th, 2003 5:47:40 PM 'So, William, how are things back there with you?' Bill checks in with the psicrystal. 'This tunnel keeps going on, with some turns once in a while. Any word from Hobbes? Guess what? Renik is letting me ride on his shoulders! His shoulders are more bony than Feng's.' He continues to relay any visual, auditory and olifactory images he may perceive as he and Renik explore this pathway.
Arien Sunday April 20th, 2003 4:13:33 AM
To keep himself occupied while Bill and Renik are off and while Hobbes is casting his spell, Arien concentrates on what he's going to do to that dragon if he gets the chance.
Feng Sunday April 20th, 2003 10:46:19 PM
Feng continues to wait patiently.
Hobbes Monday April 21st, 2003 4:00:50 AM
[I hope it's clear that Hobbes is not going to IN the portable hole when he casts the Divination. Wasn't sure if it was. However that has to happen to assure he isn't in it. ]
Scouting and Divination (DMJK) Monday April 21st, 2003 12:04:09 PM
Bill and Renik steadily descend deeper and deeper into the cave. After going in about 700 or 800 yards, Bill and Renik find a small side passage off to the left. The main passage contines to go on. It seems to stay about the same size and continually bends around to the left while descending slightly. The footing continues to remain treacherous. Renik and Bill realize that they are getting farther and farther from the party and that they could bump into just about anything. This is clearly a long cave, and it probably isn't natural.
Meanwhile, Hobbes gets the answer to his divination, "You are on the path."
Hobbes Monday April 21st, 2003 3:06:40 PM
Hobbes suddenly looks very surprised. He looks back to the heavens, then bows his head. "Thank you, Great Gargul for your Divine Knowledge." He looks around at his companions and says, "It seems we are indeed on the right path. I guess they're good guessers up there." (Indicating Renik and Bill's path)
Bill Troublefinder (Endure elements, cold) d20+3=11 d20+3=16 Monday April 21st, 2003 4:31:42 PM
"Hobbes says we're on the right path, Renik. Check that out for a moment?" he whispers, indicating the little side passage. "If we find the need to flee, it might be good to know of a pathway too little for a big thing to follow - as long as the little pathway doesn't lead to an unwanted surprise. Hmmm - I wonder if the guardian can shapechange?"
If Renik is willing, then they check out the side passage - perhaps up to 100-150 feet into it, if it goes that far. Then, unless word suggesting otherwise comes from someone else above, they continue to delve deeper into the large tunnel.
Bill continues to relay via William what they see. He wonders if there will be some forking in the large corridor ahead, perhaps leading into one of the other passageways they saw evidence of in their earlier descending circumnavigation of the mountain. Any changes in the air? Any breezes? Smells? Evidence of scapings along the walls of the tunnel from dragonscales? [Spot 11, Search 17]
William the PsiCrystal Monday April 21st, 2003 4:32:50 PM "Great Bill! The Heavens themselves proclaim the righteousnous of your path! It seems that you are indeed upon the correct route to our deadly foe! Onwards! Onwards, mighty Bill!"
Renik (Cat's Grace, Endurance, Bull's Strength, Fly, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire), and hopefully Invisible) d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d20+17=31 d20+27=30 d20+10=20 d20+4=12 Monday April 21st, 2003 5:01:11 PM
Seeing that their route is taking them ever further from the rest of the party, and also that the tunnel is beginning to look like a very likely candidate, Renik quietly signals to Bill that he is about to turn back. Assuming no objection he heads swiftly back to the surface.
Once topside, and informed of the corectness of the path he readies himself for battle.
"Right, let's get our battle spells in place, and head out!" he grins, feeling a warm rush of fear and anticipation course through him.
Once they are ready to begin the descent he has Arien cast the following scrolls:
In addition he readies the following potions, which he takes when he reaches the farthest point himself and Bill reached the last time they descended:
Protection From Elements (Cold) (duration 50 minutes) Protection from Elements (Fire) (duration 50 minutes)
Finally he searches through his pockets and realises with a stifled curse that somehow he has managed to forget perhaps the most important spell of all!
"Blood and damnation!" he hisses. How could that have happened? I've forgotten an invisibility potion! Can anyone cast Invisibility upon me?"
Hoping that his foolish error will not prove costly he heads up the group, flying back down into the darkness as before, senses alert.
Move Silent 31 Hide 30 Spot 20 Wilderness Lore 12
Draax Monday April 21st, 2003 10:46:45 PM
Happy to know that they are on the right track and have a direction to follow, Draax grabs his gear and mentally prepares himself for battle that he believes will be in the near future.
Arien Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 2:34:12 AM
Adjusting his haversack, Arien waits for the rest of the group to get going.
Bill's Excursion (DMJK) Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 10:57:11 AM
Bill takes the side passage while Renik heads back to the surface.
Inside the side passage, Bill sees that something has carved out the smaller passage. The walls are at right angles and have clearly been shaped by something. He follows it in a ways and finds steps leading down. Then he comes to a fork path. He could continue forward with a set of steps leading down. He could also turn to either the right or the left. Both of those passages seem to shortly fork into more paths.
As for sights or smells, it is much too cold for Bill to smell anything on the air, and he doesn't notice anything out of the ordinary about the rocks. There is no wind at all in the side passage, and it's probably a little warmer here than elsewhere. As an afterthought, Bill realizes that the passageway is a little small for his human companions. It's wide enough, but it's a little short. He also notices that there is no ice on the ground in the side passage.
He doesn't notice anything strange about the main passage either. The chief difference between it and the smaller passage is that it is bigger, appears to be natural, and has patches of ice everywhere.
Renik gets back to the rest of the group and everyone starts putting their gear on.
Bill's down in the mountain by himself, separated from the group, and fending off the pressing darkness with his sunrod. Hoping that he doesn't bump into the dragon as he rounds the next corner, he presses on. Foolish or fearless, who can say?
Carl Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 11:33:42 AM
(OOC: Apologies, I must have been posting while Kim posted, and didn't see his post. Renik wouldn't have left Bill alone down there, JK. Sorry!)
Rond (protection from cold) Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 2:12:47 PM
Not wanting to use up his spells just yet Rond comments, "We probably still want to hold off on spells just yet, unless Hobbes you can give us any kind of indication as to how long we'll travel to find the treasure?"
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 5:30:47 PM 'Yes, William, onwards! We'll come for you all shortly, that we all may share in this awesome task!'
Bill agrees with Renik to return, "As soon as we've taken at least a peek down this side passage."
[JK- I'm going to assume that Renik came with Bill as far in as he went, but that we decided to return to the group before exploring further - as both of our posts implied our sticking together ... if that's OK. -Kim]
Peek taken up to the point of the forked path of the diminutive corridor, he mentally relays the information via William to his friends. Mindful of his earlier solo encounter with spectres, he motions to Renik that they should go back to the group.
Once back with the rest, he says, "Should we hold on those scrolls and such for Renik, Arien?" Bill asks after the versatile scout already has received Cat's Grace. "Renik, you've got maybe a hundred minutes left on the flying I gave you. Also - though this be the right path - it may take hours, not minutes, to find the guardian as is. Should we not wait until we know we are closer before we use all the spells and such? What if it takes four hours before we meet it? Or even an hour? Let us think before we hyperventilate. The right path, the quickest path, yes. I thank Gargul for the message he gave through Hobbes."
Even as he warns against too much haste in application of certain spells, Bill pulls out a tarp, and, with fishing wire, sewing needles and knife, he begins to affix various items on to the 15'x20' tarp - flasks of alchemical fire tied upon it; lamp oil he allows to soak into the canvas; some tanglefoot bags strategically spread; some dagger slits to allow for air to pass through, that the tarp might settle quickly when he needs it to do so. He also ties some pieces of wood, and lead weights along the edges. Along the leading and trailing edges he has lengths of rope, as well as rope along the sides. He carefully, oh so carefully, folds it and rolls up the works, and places it within his bag of holding, stored in a way that he can later pull it out safely without breaking the contents.
"Of course, though we penetrated less than a thousand feet already - our return flight to that point should take only a minute or so - come to think of it - if most of us can travel in the hole..." Bill removes outer pants and backpack, opens the portable hole, and begins emptying most of what he carries in it. He requests help to set it aside. He finds a point in the passageway near the exit, but in some sort of alcove or indentation, and stacks upon a canvas those things he believes he and the party won't need against the dragon (such as most of the stacks of firewood, etc.). He covers those things with the canvas, then carries snow from just outside the cave to cover the canvas. He does what he can to obscure the lot, looking to Rond or to anyone else who may have some ideas on the best way to do this.
He also fills two buckets with flasks of alchemical fire, and one tanglefoot bag in the middle of each bucket to boot. He covers each bucket with canvas, and ties the canvas down, using a slip knot so that he need simply pull on one strand of the cord to free the canvas from the top of the bucket. He tests this a few times (bucket top upwards, so nothing spills out) in order to ensure it will work when needed.
The halfling puts his outer pants back on, and runs his hand through his wavy hair.
"Here's what I'm thinking. Renik - you and I scout on - with our friends in the hole, with me carrying it. Maybe one more of us can be flying, besides Renki and me. I can let them know what we see. If there is evidence that we draw near the lair - then I let them know - or, that is, William does so - thank you William - and Arien and Hobbes & all inside the hole, effect what spells they can and must. When all is ready, out they come, and on we go." He rubs his nose and looks to his companions. "Or, we can all go down now to that little passageway we found - but hold off on the prep spells until we're sure we're getting closer to our goal.
"Come, friends, what counsel have you? To walk is treacherous on this pathway. Tell me where I am wrong, or where your insight is sharper, for we all must share our wisdom, that it be the greater, and prepare for such an awe-filled task." ======= Bill makes available the following for others to use:
Scrolls 5: Endure Elements, Cold 1: Cat's Grace 1: Protection from Elements, Cold 1: Protection from Elements, Fire 1: Fire Shield (cause fire damage to those who strike the person protected, as well as protection from cold - probably best used by one who will attempt direct melee combat with the dragon) 1: Invisibility (for Renik, unless someone else offers him a means to gain invisibility) - he suggests holding off on using it until they sense they are closer.
Potions 1: Neutralize Poison
Renik d20+25=29 d20+15=17 d20+10=28 d20+10=16 d20+4=18 Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 2:58:45 AM
Conceding Bill's point, Renik holds off on his spells until they are all nearer their target. He thanks Bill for the Invisbility potion, and flies back down with him on his shoulders to the point they had last reached, carrying the others in the hole if desired.
"OK, I suggest we continue to explore these passages. Bill, I'll keep an eye on things, you give directions and remember our way back" whispers the rogue, having let everyone out of the hole at a suitable juncture.
DMJK Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 2:42:18 PM
Bill readies his tarp, which seems like a great idea as long as the dragon gives you all the chance to unfold it and get it ready.
Bill also makes some suggestions regarding the portable hole which sound reasonable provided the dragon doesn't catch Bill with his pants down.
Well, it's probably sleeping in its lair anyway. That's what dragons do, right? It had better not be flying into the cave on silent wings right behind you.
Phew. It's not.
Bill Troublefinder d20+7=19 Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 7:57:12 PM Regarding the Tarp: [OOC: So, you want me to write more detail???] :-p
Bill, using his intellect (+4), rope use (+7), and taking 10 (note above, "He carefully, oh so carefully, folds it and rolls up the works, and places it within his bag of holding, stored in a way that he can later pull it out safely without breaking the contents"), that'd give a DC 33.
For the folds - a fanfold would likely open the easiest, which is what I had envisioned him using, and the ropes positioned just so, with the final bit rolled over the fanfolded bulk, theoretically to unfurl with a proper pull on the ropes at the time of use. He has been working with tarps for five levels now, so is acquainted with their characteristics. As for how things go when he opens, or attempts to open it as a dragon blanket - well, we'll see how his attack roll comes out then, I guess.
At the small passageway:
'So, shall we explore this little diversion now as a group? Or do you want Renik and me to fly further down the big shaft?' Bill asks his friends via William. 'One finger for this little corridor with the stairs, or two fingers for the big shaftway,' he suggests. 'Unless there is another idea out there, guys.'
Rond Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 11:40:31 PM
Rond wonders about the corridor vs the shaft and which one came first. Not wanting to worry about things too much, Rond sticks out a single finger to indicate his preference.
Rond will also indicate that he'll take the fire shield spell if no one else is interested.
Feng Thursday April 24th, 2003 6:18:36 AM
"If we climb into the portable hole, what happens in a worse case situation? Bill what what do the people inside the hole do if something happens out here?"
Draax Thursday April 24th, 2003 6:41:59 AM
Feng's question has been a thought in the back of Draax's mind for awhile and he looks up as he listens to the answer.
Renik d20+25=27 d20+15=34 d20+10=19 d20+4=17 Thursday April 24th, 2003 8:12:10 AM
Renik fires a quick thumbs up to Rond, and floats silently down the smaller tunnel with stairs, taking care to touch nothing.
For now, with all the group out and at the intersection, they need not worry overmuch about the hole.
Hide 27 Move Silent 34 Spot 19 Wilderness Lore 17
DMJK Thursday April 24th, 2003 8:45:54 AM
Rond, the leader, suggests the main passage while Renik drifts off to explore the side passage.
Renik finds that he's just a bit tall for the small passage. He follows the path while hunched over and eventually comes to the forked path. Choosing straight instead of the passages to the right or the left, he follows the stairs down. They go down about 40 feet or so.
After a few more minutes of hunched over walking he comes to a stone door. At least he assumes, it's a door. It's rectangular and features a large caraving of the sun. However there is no obvious hinge or handle.
Up above, Bill monkeys with his tarp a little more. He gets it folded up just perfectly but just the same he recognizes that a 3 ft 5 in halfling is a little small to quickly maneuver a 10 ft x 15 ft tarp that's laden down with wood weights, flasks of alchemical fire and all the rest. Sure he can get it unfolded fast, but he can't whip it out of his bag, unfurl it, and sling it on a charging dragon in a single round. It's a device that requires some amount of time to use.
While Bill thinks about his tarp, Arien and Draax are a bit more concerned about the portable hole. Just how safe is that thing anyway?
Renik d20+15=30 d20+25=43 d20+10=15 d20+4=22 Thursday April 24th, 2003 5:12:16 PM
(OOC: JK, Renik was following Rond's directions! At least, I think he was...)
Finding his path blocked, and deciding the tunnel would be too small for the likes of Feng anyhow, Renik returns to his companions. As he goes he ponders the stone 'door'. A curious thing to find so deep underground, and the sun a curious symbol to find upon it. Perhaps flame might open the door in the absence of a handle? He ponders on, wondering if perhaps the stone steps and low passageways might have been carved by some long-dead dwarven craftsman.
Reaching the others he quickly whispers the salient points of his find, and indicates that, if Rond is in agreement, he will expore the larger passage instead. If there is a White Dragon down here, this is surely the path it would use.
If Bill wishes to climb onto Renik's shoulders again Renik stoops down, then he floats a foot into the air and continues his silent, shadow creeping subterranean flight.
At the first sign of danger he reverses direction, moving back to the remainder of the party.
Move Silent 30 Hide 43 Spot 15 Wilderness Lore 22
Arien Thursday April 24th, 2003 7:53:47 PM
Arien looks at the portable hole for a moment before looking at Bill and says, "I think it'd be best if we stay outside of the hole right now. Should the dragon surprise us it'd get really hairy, really fast."
Bill Troublefinder Thursday April 24th, 2003 8:12:37 PM
[OOC: I thought that Bill and Renik and all were going down to the little side corridor. And the description of the folding of the tarp was backposting the details in order to answer JK's questions. I thought we all were by now down at the little corridor, and that Rond had signaled to check out the worked corridor. The timing and location of the posts is all over the place. This is confuzzling.]
"Feng, Arien, it takes sixty seconds of flying for Renik to get from the entrance to the side corridor. And, if the dragon shows up in that time, I can blink out of the way, or even dimension door. Or, if you prefer, you can slip and slide along, taking several minutes, and making a lot of noise, and getting injured when you go sliding down the various icy inclines."
If they chicken out on hopping into the hole for a sixty second ride, then Bill shrugs his shoulders. "Okay, go ahead and make lots of noise and take lots of time and slip and slide all you want," and reaccompanies Renik and whoever will hop in the bag.
Bill does join Renik in order further to explore the main shaft, leaving William back with Rond. Unless Rond and the others want Bill to carry the rest of them in the bag (which seems unlikely for them to choose, but is possible) along with him.
Feng Thursday April 24th, 2003 9:27:02 PM
Feng follows along using the time to get in the proper frame of mind to fight a dragon. The quiet is somewhat disturbing since Feng believed it near impossible to sneak up on a dragon. Then again they could be walking into an ambush.
Draax Thursday April 24th, 2003 11:21:10 PM
Draax shares the same misgivings about the hole as Arien and decides to follow along with the others.
"I think we should worry more about locating the dragon than how fast we travel. And I really don't like the helpless feeling I have when riding in the hole. It probably just me being paranoid, but I feel more comfortable when I have some control over my actions."
Hobbes Friday April 25th, 2003 8:28:08 AM
Hobbes creeps up behind Rond and waits, barely whispering, "If ever we need absolute quiet I can arrange that. 8 minute's worth of redius 15 feet...but any dragon worth his bent will already know we're here. IF he's here."
He then backs up against the wall and crouches down ready to move when ordered.
moving things along (DMJK) Friday April 25th, 2003 2:20:37 PM
[sorry I misinterpretted the one finger thing. It doesn't really matter though.]
The side passage is partially explored, and it doesn't appear to lead to any dragons. So the party resumes with the main passage.
Soon the passage comes to a nexus. A tremendous circular shaft perhaps fifty feet in diameter rises upward into the darkness. Two other large passages meet with the one you have followed and open up onto the shaft at intervals of 1/3. A large disc of ice covers the floor in the center of this chamber. It's quite solid and you can walk across it, and it's too thick to see through. The ice merely appears black when you shine a light into it.
However, from the shape of the chamber, you assume that the shaft descends straight down into the depths of the mountain. The ice seems to have been purposefully laid down to seal the passage to the depths below, like a mage's ice wall. And the temperature is cold enough that it isn't melting.
A little heat would certainly melt through it or a hammer might crack it, so it isn't an insurmountable barrier. But you have to wonder why it's here. Did the dragon leave and seal the chamber so it would know if someone entered his lair? Is the dragon lurking beneath waiting to pounce on whoever comes through? Perhaps it's holding some poisonous gas at bay? Who knows?
Arien Friday April 25th, 2003 8:24:29 PM
"Hmm if we're trying to keep this quite I'd say fire would be the best way to go about this. Bill maybe you can use some of that alchemical fire to melt this?"
Bill Troublefinder Friday April 25th, 2003 8:51:29 PM
"No, no, we don't want to melt it, I think," Bill answers Arien. "We can get past it without doing so. In case it's an alarm or something."
[Will post later - just don't have time to finish this now.]
Bill Troublefinder Sunday April 27th, 2003 4:02:35 PM
"How about this?" Bill schemes aloud. "I, or one of us, anyway, can blink through the ice. Renik, you've used my ring before to try that.
"Say, Damocles - do you still have that, what was it, lavender ioun stone, that lets you breathe even if there's no good air? We got it from Atomos, I think. If I lend Renik my ring, and you lend him the ioun stone, and he takes William with him, then he can check out what's on the bottom side of the ice, and let us know. Or, if Renik doesn't want to do that, I could try it. Unless someone else wants to. Maybe we see what's there, before we go breaking or melting the ice. 'Cause, if the dragon is somewhere down below, then breaking it will be sure to alert him. Her. It.
"Oh, also, if you want some company, Renik, I could hop in the hole, you take me with you, and stick the hole against the wall or somethin' on the other side, then I get out, and we check things some more. Whadda you guys think?"
Renik d20+5=10 Sunday April 27th, 2003 5:26:45 PM
The rogue carefully explores the ice with his fingers (Search 10). Seeing no obvious way through he moves back to the others.
In a hushed voice he says "It would be my guess that the Dragon is beneath this ice, although there is no way of telling how deep. It is likely that the creature seals itself in when resting. That being the case, I'd rather not try to break or burn through until we are sure we know what is on the other side.
Bill, I like your plan. It should probably be me that goes as I'm already flying, and we don't know how deep the drop is under there. I think I'd like to make myself invisible before I make the trip though. That way if the dragon is beneath the ice and awake, it shouldn't spot me.
It would make sense to have you with me in the portable hole also. That way we can test if there are any deliterious effects from travelling in a portable hole whilst being blinked!" He flashes the halfling a swift wink.
He turns to the rest of the party. "What do the rest of you think? Rond, does that sound like a valid plan?"
Draax Sunday April 27th, 2003 8:10:18 PM
Draax listens to the plan and has to agree that it sound like a very good idea. He wonders about the halfling's sanity as he watches Bill talk to Damocles. Draax wonders if the dead cleric has somehow returned and only Bill can see him. He looks around for a moment to see if he can somehow catch a glimpse of the spirit before returning his attention to the plan. "I guess we can wait to see what you find on the other side before we decide how the rest of us will get through."
Feng Sunday April 27th, 2003 10:36:04 PM
"It sounds risky but we need to know what is down there. Maybe if we are lucky the cavern will be empty and Renik will be able to grab the items and be gone before the dragon notices."
Hobbes Sunday April 27th, 2003 11:40:31 PM
Hobbes nods his approval. "It should work. And it also sounds like a good place for silence. I can cast it on an item that you can carry so that it can't hear your breath or clinking or your coins and weapons. Hmm...do you need to speak to blink through?"
Rond Monday April 28th, 2003 6:24:08 AM
"Listening to the others that are talking Rond considers what they talk about. Nodding to Bill when he asks Rond state, "It should like that should work find. Do we want to worry about the two other openings, or what about above? Which of these four do we want to make sure is clear?"
Renik's examination - DMJK Monday April 28th, 2003 3:25:50 PM
Renik checks the surface of the ice. There are no obvious holes. It seems to completely seal whatever lies beneath. It is smooth and firm. In other words, it doesn't seem to be melting in anyway. There's no way to really tell how long it has been there. There isn't any dust or anything.
A plan is put forward to have Renik blink through the ice with an ioun stone that Damocles, who doesn't seem to be here, once possessed. Perhaps someone else has it now? Hobbes also suggests silence.
The party seems agreed on a blinking scout, but what other effects will Renik carry with him. And will Bill go in the portable hole? What happens to something in a portable hole when it blinks? Hmmmm.
Bill Troublefinder Monday April 28th, 2003 4:38:06 PM
"Hmmm - I've blinked with the portable hole before, and with the bag of holding lots of times, and nothin' inside has ever been wrecked," Bill ponders. "Everything I carry has always blinked along with me. But, yep, Renik, I guess we'll find out again, eh?"
Red-faced, Bill realizes he was looking at Draax and calling him Damocles. "Where's my brain? I mean, Draax. Draax, not Damocles - do you have the lavender ioun stone? I remember you saying you'd like it when we divvied up the rest of the stuff from Atomos shortly after coming to Plateau City. Sorry." Bill thinks back on Damocles, and the sacrifice he made, and feels a moment of sorrow.
If Draax has the lavender ioun and is willing to let Renik use it, Bill is pleased. If he doesn't have it, then maybe Bill did need to talk to Damocles.
"Hobbes, that's a great idea! Renik, what should he cast silence on? Oh, and Arien can maybe read that scroll of invisibility I gave you, too, if you figure you want to use that on yourself now. Unless you can read scrolls, Renki."
Bill takes a few things out of his pants pockets - some wands, a few vials, a flask, and a couple other knickknacks. He removes his outer pants, leaving on his warm winter pants. He stuffs his pants into an outer pocket on his backpack, closes the flap, and hands his backpack to Rond. "Could you carry this for me? I'll get it back after we've checked ahead." If Rond doesn't want to carry it, he checks to see who would want to. (The backpack, bag of holding, and pants together weigh about 19 pounds.]
"William, I'm trying to decide if you should come with Renik and me, or stay back with the rest of the group," he says aloud (but not too loudly), so that his friends can follow his thinking, and, if they wish, add their recommendations. "With me in the bag, you could communicate to me what's going on around you and Renik. With you back here ... I don't know whether we'd be able to communicate, if I'm in the hole. You seemed awfully far away when you were in the hole earlier today, and I was carrying the hole. Maybe you'll want to come along on Renik's shoulder? I'll let you decide."
Once he and Renik are about ready to go, he says, "It might be a good idea for you all to not stand on the ice here while we're off below. And maybe you can check out the areas nearby while we find out whatever we find out below." If William decides to come along, Bill makes sure he understands that he should let the rest of the party know what he sees after first Renik blinks to the other side of the ice.
He waits to see if there are any further recommendations or cautions, then opens the portable hole, and eases himself inside. He left only one of the bigger chests inside, with a medium and small chest within. He opens up the big one, and takes out the medium, stacking them one on top of the other. He takes two of the breathing pipes and ties the pair together. Sitting on top of the raised medium chest, he lifts the pipes upward, and says, "Okay, Ren, close the top, except for the pipes."
Renik d20+15=23 d20+25=35 d20+15=31 d20+10=26 d20+10=13 Monday April 28th, 2003 5:32:02 PM
"Well, whoever has the stone, I'll use it if you don't mind lending it to me for a bit. Hobbes, you should probably save your spells. I can be pretty quiet when I need to be."
Renik slips on the ring, takes the stone if it is available, and says to Rond "My guess is that the other passages are probably alternate routes out of the mountain, leading to other cave openings. (OOC: do the other paths slope upwards, JK?) Bill, I think we need to leave William behind, so that if something does go wrong we can warn them quickly." Then he closes the top of the hole over Bill, leaving only the air pipe sticking out. (OOC: Kim, could you mail me a copy of William's details again? I'm afraid I've lost them.)
Renik waits to see if anyone has any further suggestions or items they wish to loan him, then he secures all his pouches, pockets and the portable hole with Bill inside, and slowly inverts himself until he is floating head down. He says "Could you folks hide your lights? I need to accustomise my eyes to the dark, and it's likely to be pretty gloomy down there."
Ensuring that he is able to move up and down without making a sound, and without any of his gear falling off (Move Silent 23) he says to Arien "OK, here's the Invisibility scroll my friend. Cast away please."
Once Invisible and certain that he can move in silence, Renik blinks downwards through the ice, pausing only long enough to offer a swift prayer to Wardd. If he reaches the other side safely he instinctively attempts to blend in with his surroundings (Hide 35), and manages to keep extremely quiet (Move Silent 31). He peers about, looking for any sign of life below the ice, or for any clue as to how deep the shaft might be (Spot 26, Listen 13). He continues blinking the entire time, and makes sure he holds his breath. Once he has had time to survey his surroundings, he blinks back up to the surface.
He tries to keep his descent as swift and silent as possible, his head pointing downwards and his feet straight up so that the least amount of him possible shows through the ice. He keeps one hand lightly on the breathing tubes, ready to tug if he suddenly needs Bill to exit at speed.
Draax Monday April 28th, 2003 6:05:08 PM
Draax answers Bill, "Yea, I wanted the stone, but it was given to Damocles. I believe it should have been in his backpack when he was taken from us." Draax bows his head in respect for a second before continuing. "I know Rond distributed the items from the backpack, but I do not remembering him giving the lavender ioun stone to me. We were kind of out of it at that moment because of the lost of Damocles and I probably just forgot, hold on one second." Draax checks his gear and the pockets of his cloak looking for the stone, if he does have the stone he gives it to Renik.
(OOC: From what I read the ioun stone was not distributed, so either it was given to Draax or Rond still has it.)
Arien Monday April 28th, 2003 7:54:01 PM
Arien casts the scroll for Renik and then waits for Renik and Bill to come back.
Renik d10=6 d10=7 d10=8 d10=1 d6=5 Tuesday April 29th, 2003 2:47:27 AM
Ammendment;
Remembering Bill's previous advice on blinking, Renik decides at the last minute to change his planned descent.
Rather than head down, Renik lies flat, and blinks through that way, so that once through no part of him remains in the ice.
He passes through up to 15 feet of ice without incident. If the ice is 20 feet thick he takes 5 HP damage.
Hobbes d20+9=21 d20+7=25 Tuesday April 29th, 2003 8:21:41 AM
Hobbes nods to Renik, then stands back taking in the immensely tall cavern that drifts out of sight.
Cocking his head, he says, "Hrm... you're right, Rond. It would be indeed unfortunate if there was something else up there. I'll keep an eye out."
He stares up at the overhead passageways [Spot 21, Listen 25] and gets an idea and a disgusted look.
"Hmmm...those three caves that we saw ALL dump out here. We would have been right no matter what. What a waste of a spell..."
Falling (DMJK) Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:38:10 AM
Of the other two passages, one slopes up and one slopes down. They both curve out of sight after a short way. Who knows where they go?
After being turned invisibile, Renik lays down and blinks through the ice. It's about 6 inches thick, and he passes through without any trouble.
The surroundings look much like those up above. He's in a large shaft that plunges down for hundreds of feet. He can't see all they way down to the bottom. Lucky for him he's still flying. It would have been a long fall.
Fortunately, there is a ledge around the outer edge that spirals down and provides a long ramp so that someone could walk down.
As for Bill in the portable hole, the hole remains open just a bit for Bill to breathe and while Bill doesn't blink in the extra dimensional space, his air supply does. He only manages to get about half the oxygen he needs from the tube. It's a fight just to breathe. Fortunately, the trip through the ice is fast, but Renik doesn't end the blink right away.
The rest of the party waits.
[How long does that fly spell last, anyway? I estimate that it's been about 2 hours since it was cast.]
[Bill is the only one with an ioun stone on his sheet, and it's a different one.]
Bill/Kim OOC Tuesday April 29th, 2003 1:17:07 PM
[OOC: Flying time. My bad. For some reason, earlier Bill had accurately reported that fly lasts 90 minutes. Then, here on the mountain, I had him state it lasts twice that long, three hours. Didn't do that on purpose. Not sure what flipped the doubling bit in my head. I just discovered my mistake when I relooked at Bill's CS. '10 minutes per level' - and he is effectively at 9th level with this power.
When flying ends, "The subject drops 60 feet per round for 1d6 rounds." Heh.
Also I think that Draax (Stan) is right - we forgot to handle the distribution of some of the stuff that Damocles left behind.
Looking back to Peer's post regarding item distribution (Sunday February 18th, 2001 7:09:24 PM), here's what should have been included:
potion of water breathing potion of fire breathing oil of impact scroll of airy water scroll of blade barrier ioun stone lavender (can breathe without air, including underwater) rapier +1 ]
That's over 2 years ago! I'd be inclined to say that stuff is gone if you're just now thinking of it. -jk
Renik d10=9 Tuesday April 29th, 2003 3:18:25 PM
Renik gazes down into the seemingly bottomless abyss below him, and feels his stomach lurch. How long did Bill say this flying spell lasted?
Suddenly less than happy to trust to chance, Renik blinks straight back up topside, lets Bill out of the hole and lets the others know what he has seen.
"There's a path spiralling down" he says. "My guess is that we'll find the dragon at the bottom. But I'd like to reset this flying spell before we continue. It's quite a drop!"
"Now I was thinking; if I took William with me on my shoulder and Bill stayed up here, we could scout ahead, and let you all know what we see, without making a sound.
Or, everyone could go in the hole, I could blink us all through, and then we could all get out on the other side and either walk or fly down the walkway. I'd be tempted to fly myself, less chance of running into traps. And it's quieter.
I know some of you have reservations about hole travel, but we've all used it now, and there have been no ill-effects. I think it has to be the safest way of getting us past this barrier."
He takes out a small mirror and brushes back his hair, checking for any split ends.
Draax Tuesday April 29th, 2003 11:08:00 PM
Draax turns toward the area that Renik's voice is emanating from. "The hole is probably the best way to get pass the ice wall without breaking it. I advise that we go over a few at a time. I would just feel more comfortable that way. Once we are on the other side we can start making our way down. How much longer will you be invisible?"
Feng Tuesday April 29th, 2003 11:14:06 PM
"We seem to have a way through the ice. But I think we need to figure out a way for a hasty retreat. If we are being pursued, does anybody think we will have the time to climb into the hole and blink back through?"
Rond Tuesday April 29th, 2003 11:55:43 PM
Hearing Feng's comment Rond whispers his comments, "We need to be clear on what it is we are attempting to do here. Are we going in to get the treasure and get out? Or are we going in to kill the dragon and find the treasure? I thought we were headed into to do the former. If we're headed in for the latter, then we need to take your (indicating Feng) suggestion into mind."
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday April 30th, 2003 2:31:33 AM
"Intrepid William - will you scout with Renik?" Bill politely requests of his psicrystal. "You let me know everything you two see and hear, and I'll tell our friends here, topside."
[William has the ability to 'see' and 'hear' and perceive anything within a 40' radius (80' diameter sphere) telepathically. The gemstone can even be inside a pocket, and perceive outside. Even magical darkness does not thwart his 'vision' - although he cannot see invisible things. He cannot read Renik's thoughts, but could hear him whisper, or even perceive him signaling with his hands.]
During all of his talking, Bill talks quietly.
"I have a potion of flying you can have, Renik," offers Bill. "It lasts for 50 minutes." He holds forth the potion bottle, waiting until Renik takes it out of his hands. "Hey, did you know that the outside air supply was blinking on and off in the portable hole? I don't get that one. I could always breathe just fine when I was blinking."
He shifts his attention to the party as a whole. "My thought is this. Let Renik scout ahead. Let's all stay on this side of the ice. We'll keep the portable hole here. I've got two ways, besides blinking, to get us through the ice fairly quickly. One involves you all hopping into the hole - and then I'd dimension door to the other side. I can even take us nearly a thousand feet down, or sideways, or diagonal, that way. The other would be to use a cone of sound on the ice, possibly shattering it. You wouldn't have to be in the hole for that one - just probably wouldn't want to be directly beneath the ice when it's falling. Or, Arien can center one of his fireballs right in the middle of the ice. Maybe one of you has another way. Bash it real hard a bunch of times. Then there's the alchemical fire, like Arien already suggested. Or, we could build a campfire ..." As Bill ticks off options on his fingers, he happens to look around, and notes a growing measure of impatience among some of the party members with his excessive detailing of the options. "Okee, enough on that.
"But anyway, Feng, that's a good point. But, weighing the factors - if we're being pursued by a dragon that flies like, at least twice as fast as any of us can fly, and eight or ten times faster than we can run - you think it'd have problems catching up to us if we're at the bottom of that shaft, and most of us running our spiraling way back up? Until we know more - maybe let's wait until we decide to break it. Duzzat make sense, Feng? Besides, Rond's question is good. I'd say - it's us or it. I still have a birthday party to invite you all to," he says.
"So, Renik - say, how are you gonna see if it gets real dark? You want ta take this eternal flame dealie with you? Anybody have a potion of darkvision, or can cast that kind of spell for Renik? Or, maybe, Renik, William can be your eyes for you if it gets real dark.
"William - if Renik covers his eyes with his hands for a moment, that's a signal to you to let him know what's around you two, so he can keep flying without bumping into something - okay? Oh, wait, he's invisible.
"Renik - tap William twice if you get to a place where you can't see. Okay?
"William - if Renik taps you twice, then you're his eyes. And tell him if you see the dragon before he does, right away. But don't talk to the dragon - I don't care how brave you are feeling - you don't want to leave us out of the action, do you? Discretion, little friend."
Bill touches William, and the little gemstone sprouts ectoplasmic legs (last 24 hours, allowing for move 30, spider-climb).
"If we get word from Renik that he thinks the white is nearby, then we can all start our prep spells. Hobbes and Arien, that's going to keep you pretty busy, I s'pose."
The halfling looks around this nexus of passageways. "Wonder if there's any secret doors around here?"
DMJK Wednesday April 30th, 2003 11:26:19 AM
Feng poses an interesting question, and the group tries to plan how to best cross the ice. Then there's the matter of whether Renik will scout ahead or not. And is the group planning a snatch and grab or a dragon battle? Good questions that need answers.
[use email if you guys really want to debate any of these ideas, so that we can get things moving.]
As Bill thinks on the blinking, he surmises that the extradimensional space in the hole did not enter the ethereal plane, but the breathing tubes did. Essentially, he was trying to suck air through an ethereal straw.
Arien Wednesday April 30th, 2003 2:23:51 PM
"I say get rid of the ice now, because after the fight we may not be able to and I can almost guarantee that the hole and anything else we can use will be full with the dragon's hoard. I for one do not want to stuff myself into a hole filed with a bunch of treasure. I think that what I said earlier, the Alchemist Fire is the best way to do that so that I don't have to waste any spells."
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday April 30th, 2003 6:39:26 PM
"Get rid of the ice, and the dragon knows we're here," Bill says. "Let Renik scout first."
Feng Wednesday April 30th, 2003 10:17:46 PM
"If the dragon is after us then running wouldn't do much good. So far there is no sign of any cult worshipping the dragon. Human or giant, that would make things much worse."
Draax Wednesday April 30th, 2003 10:55:44 PM
Draax listens to the opinions about the ice wall and adds his own to the pool. "I do not want to break the ice as yet. I have no idea if it is a ward or some type of alarm, but once we know where the dragon is, we might be able to use the breaking of the ice as a distraction. Who know, it might be use to keep things out or keep things in, but until we know where the dragon is or why the wall is here, I say lets leave it as it is. Just my opinion."
Bill T Thursday May 1st, 2003 2:34:38 AM 'Oh, one other thing,' Bill telepathically relays to his friends via his psicrystal. 'We take back the king's things - you think the white won't know? Rond, I don't fancy we're going to waltz out of here without its days ending. Wishful thinking won't help here.'
Rond Thursday May 1st, 2003 3:04:13 AM
"I do not want to get get rid of the ice cover at this point. If we find a reason to get rid of it that makes sense then I'll consider it. I'm not exactly comfortable about traveling in the hole either. But when we're finished we're probably not going to be in the best of shape, and using the hole is probably going to be to the fastest way to get back to the exit point without bringing undue attention to ourselves. So I'm planning on using the hole again, unless we have to fill it with too much stuff. "
"Renik you should get going, we've had you sitting around too long while we're trying to figure out what is next. Let us know what you find, and good luck."
Renik d10=10 d20+15=30 d20+25=26 d20+10=25 Thursday May 1st, 2003 3:45:33 AM
The rogue nods, though being invisible no-one can see it.
"Right you are, skipper!" He scoops up a rather suprised William, places him on his shoulder, and blinks safely back down through the ice.
Then, ensuring all is quiet (Move Silent 30, Hide 26) he descends down the shaft, flying down the center rather than following the walkway. He keeps his eyes peeled for signs of life as he descends (Spot 25).
He continues until he reaches the bottom, spots the dragon, or both.
William the PsiCrystal Thursday May 1st, 2003 3:52:13 AM
As soon as they are through the ice, William communicates with Bill back up top.
"We're through, mighty Bill! Ooh, it's very deep! It goes down forever! We're dropping, heading down. I can see a path spiralling down the shaft. We're heading down deeper, ooh, what a pretty outcropping!"
The psicrystal continues his running commentary to Bill as they drop ever deeper. As it grows darker the little crystal's senses come into play, and if he feels anything alive in the vacinity, he gives Renik a gentle warning prod in the neck. He keeps an ectolplasmic 'eye' out for Renik's signals, as outlined by Bill.
Hobbes Thursday May 1st, 2003 7:06:03 AM
Hobbes stands by the wall and is seen praying silently, his eyes closed in reflection. Then his eyes open again and he starts to look around.Focusing his attention to the ice and the chamber he murmurs something and holds his symbol aloft. He peers around the chamber purposefully.
[Detect Magic - On the Ice, in the air and all around]
Bill Troublefinder Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:11:10 AM
Now that Renik is underway, Bill passes on to his friends William's running commentary. He goes to the entrance of the tunnel opposite the one they came in on, to glance briefly down it. Most of the time, he is turned toward the center of the chamber, but he occasionally glances backwards, and upwards.
He also attunes his senses to any changes in wind currents or air pressure.
Out voted (DMJK) Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:37:08 AM
Arien seems to be out voted on breaking the ice wall, and Renik heads down to scout while Hobbes detects magic up above.
Hobbes determines that there is no active magic save for what his companions possess. However, there is a residual feeling of magic in the ice. He surmises that the ice wall was created with magic, but that there are no spells tied to it now.
Renik presumable drinks the fly potion and flies down the shaft. About 200 feet down, he notices a small side passage similar to the one he explored before. After another 400 feet, he reaches the bottom. There is a single large passage that leads off from the bottom. He explores it. It makes a turn and after the turn, it starts to get brighter. He makes out a large, brightly lit chamber around the bend before he ducks back.
William relays everything to Bill who relays it to the party.
Shall Renik continue his scouting or should the group press on together?
Bill Troublefinder Thursday May 1st, 2003 12:21:15 PM
Bill faithfully relays William's commentary, except portions such as 'Mighty Bill.'
"I might be wrong. But what say that we make some of the longer-lasting preparations here in the next few minutes - various protections and the like - and then move as a group onward?"
'William - have Renik set you high on the wall. Then slowly, quietly, walk yourself around the corner to see what's in the bright room. Then come back so Renik can pick you up. Explain to Renik what I told you - and if he thinks it's not a good idea, then don't do it. If he sets you on the wall, then go ahead.'
[OOC: Will later post list of requested assistance - scrolls for Arien &/or Hobbes to read. Gotta run.]
Bill Troublefinder d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 Thursday May 1st, 2003 7:42:04 PM
Bill hands scrolls to Arien and asks him to cast on him:
Cat's Grace (d4+1=+5 to Dex); Bull's Strength (1d4+1=+5 to Str); Endurance (1d4+1=+5 to Con). Each lasts 3 hours. [Woo-hoo! 5 each]
He reminds the others about the scrolls and such he made available to others which (as far as I recall) no one has yet taken advantage of, except for the scroll of fire shield, which Rond accepted from Bill.
Here is the list: Scrolls: 5: Endure Elements, Cold 1: Cat's Grace (1d4+1 to Dex) 1: Protection from Elements, Cold 1: Protection from Elements, Fire
Potions 1: Neutralize Poison
"I've got other things, too, if people want some. Smokesticks, antitoxin, flashpellets, a couple extra flasks of alchemical fire, acid, tanglefoot bags..." he offers.
Feng Thursday May 1st, 2003 9:29:43 PM
Feng spins his axe in one hand and paces nervously. Something in his gut tells him that bad things will happen and soon. Closing his eyes Feng concentrates and tries to feel for evil.
Hobbes Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:45:05 PM
Hobbes raises a reluctant finger.
"I hate to interrupt our progress but here's a disturbing thought. What if the ice wall was not something to keep people out, but instead something to keep something in." he looks around at reactions.
"It certainly would explain it's purpose here. We've not been able to figure out just why or how the dragon put it here conclusively. But if someone ELSE on the outside sealed it in, that would certainly explain both how and why.. Someone else...named Hororot perhaps?"
He takes a stone and sharpens the end of his scythe a little. "Just a thought..."
Rond d4+1=4 Friday May 2nd, 2003 3:53:18 AM
Responding to Hobbes concern, "How would Hororot have gotten the ice in place? He said that his stuff had been stolen after he had died?"
Saying a quick prayer to Wardd, Rond begins the process of setting up his spells using Arien.
Cat's grace = +4 Fire shield Haste
Bill T Friday May 2nd, 2003 4:39:47 AM
"Don't be too hasty with the haste, there - it only lasts a few rounds," interjects Bill - although Arien would likely counsel in a similar vein - perhaps also with the fire shield (which lasts, what, a few minutes?).
Renik d10=1 d10+15=25 d10+25=35 d10+10=20 Friday May 2nd, 2003 8:14:14 AM
The rogue briefly considers Williams telepathic missive, then shakes his invisible head. Renik is invisible, and William isn't. He stands the better chance of observing unseen.
Very slowly, very quietly, he eases his head around the corner, and takes a good look at the room and its contents (Move Silent 25, Hide 35, Spot 20). Once he has taken in the scene he moves carefully back and retreats down the tunnel, flying all the while, at no point coming into contact with the floor or walls. He flies back up the shaft and blinks through the ice, and reports what he has seen (OOC: Damage from rolling a 1? Not sure, posting at work).
Above and Below (DMJK) Friday May 2nd, 2003 11:14:48 AM
Below: Renik sticks his head around the corner and the dragon bites it off.
Not really.
Above: Bill offers up his goodies, and Arien gets a big bundle of scrolls passed to him for some quick casting.
Below: Renik struggles not to gasp as he enters the chamber. Surely, he has found the dragon's lair, but lucky for him the dragon isn't in it. He quickly surmises that the ice wall is meant to keep people out while the dragon is away.
Above: Feng feels for evil and gets some residual traces. Something evil has passed by this way recently, but it isn't here right now.
Below: The chamber is enormous. It would have to be for a dragon to live in it, wouldn't it? It's a large icy cave. Huge icicles hang from the ceiling which is some 300 feet up above. Most of these glow with a faint light that illuminates the entire cave. Renik struggles to see how they work, and guesses that some sort of light source is encased in the ice. Some of those icicles are 20 feet long or more too. Renik shudders as he realizes the damage one could do if it fell and hit you.
Above: Hobbes and Rond engage in a discussion about just what the ice wall might be doing sealing off the lower chamber.
Below: The floor of the cavern is what really catches Renik's attention. The space is a huge cavern. He sees that the room is mostly circular and about 700 feet in diameter. A large icy pool lies at the far side. It looks like part of an underground lake, and Renik realizes that he's traveled down to the base of the mountain. This pool is snuggled right up against the wall on the far side of the chamber. Scattered around the floor of the chamber are icy stalagmites, and Renik grins wide as he notices them. The ice is crystal clear, and each stalagmite is filled with portions of the dragon's treasure. He sees glowing weapons, gems, jewels, gold, and all other sorts of loot.
Surely Hororot's crown is in one of them, but it will take a little looking to find it. Then the ice will have to be melted to retrieve it.
Before leaving to tell the group what he found, Renik spies a dragon scale at his feet. It's pure white, almost transparent... and it's as big as a small shield. The dragon it fell off of has to be huge. Renik is suddenly aware of just how loud he's breathing and just how alone he is.
Bill Troublefinder Saturday May 3rd, 2003 8:44:45 PM
"I dunno, Hobbes - I got the feeling that the old king's spirit is kind of stuck in the tomb," Bill says in response to the cleric's pondering, "and that he really doesn't have much of a chance to get out and about. He asked us what was going on in the world around - I know you were busy escorting Elmo and Jared out of the catacombs when we met him - so, unless he was trying to mislead us, that doesn't make much sense to me."
'Say, William,' the little nomad tells the psicrystal, 'let Renik know I'm suggesting he leave you there on the wall - you can keep a lookout - and see if he'll come and get us.'
[So, does Arien read the scrolls as Bill and Rond requested? Does anyone want to take advantage of the scrolls and such Bill offered? Write it down, so it can happen!]
Draax Sunday May 4th, 2003 9:36:50 AM
After listening to Renik's report of what he found, Draax inadvertently gives a shiver at the thought of the size of a dragon that the scale fell off of. Fortunately the dragon is not at home, but not knowing where it is can be more dangerous.
"Lets get in there and get what we came for before the dragon returns. If we do not have to fight it I will not complain, but if we do have to fight it I would rather already have the sword, crown, and any other treasure we collect already in our possession in case we have to withdraw. By withdraw I mean run. As treasure, I suggest we take the glowing weapon, gems, and jewelry. The gold is too heavy, takes up too much room, and makes too much noise."
Draax looks back down the tunnel as if he expects to see the dragon coming towards them. A little while ago he was hesitant about getting into the hole and now he is eager to get in and beyond the wall.
Feng Sunday May 4th, 2003 10:02:19 AM
"I believe the dragon is out at the moment. Something evil passed through here recently. When we are below I will act as a sentry. If I continually concentrate I should be able to feel the dragon approach. The range isn't far and the dragon will probably know we are here but at least we won't be suprised."
DMJK Sunday May 4th, 2003 2:51:54 PM
What's Feng's range on detect evil?
That was glowing weapons, not glowing weapon. :)
What's the final verdict on how the group is going to pass the ice wall?
Renik Monday May 5th, 2003 7:13:28 AM
Renik stares into the Dragon's lair with violently conflicting emotions.
Look at all that loot!
Look at the size of that dragon scale!
But just think how much cash is sitting out there in the ice!
But look at the size of that scale!
I could be rich! Filthy rich!
You could be dead, you idiot! Look at the size of that scale!
Renik shakes his head to clear his thoughts, and returns to his companions, leaving William behind as lookout.
The rogue nods at the various suggestions."Good thinking Feng, that's an excellent idea. I was going to suggest leaving William in hiding above the ice, but if you can detect approaching evil to a similar range, let's do that instead."
To Draax he says "Having seen the size of that scale, I'm rather less keen to get into a fight with this thing. I agree, if we can get out with the items (and a few trinkets for good measure), let's do that.
He opens the Hole, waits for the entire party to get inside and get their breathing tubes organised, and then Blinks everyone through the ice. Then he flies down to the base of the shaft, and lets everyone out.
Once in the vicinity of the dragon's cave the flying rogue whispers "OK Rond, how do you want to play this?"
Rond Monday May 5th, 2003 1:16:42 PM
Waiting until the party is actually engaged by the dragon, Rond will only use the cat's grace spell for now.
Rond then climbs into the hole in order to tranport quickly to where Renik has already been.
When Renik asks about what to do Rond ponders for a little bit about what the group can do.
"I was thinking that why don't you and I move out and steathily search and see if we can find the items. Bill is REAL good at surprising people, so I'd say leave him and the rest back here keeping an eye out and pretending to be a spec of sand in the beach that the dragon inhabits. That way we have spare fighting ability to move in if you and I get caught somehow."
Renik's offer and Rond's plan(DMJK) Monday May 5th, 2003 2:38:02 PM
Renik offers to use the portable hole to blink everyone through, and Rond suggests that only he and Renik actually enter the final chamber.
How about a quick vote?
Renik d6=6 d10=8 d10=8 Monday May 5th, 2003 5:30:12 PM Blinking Damage Something goes wrong and Renik takes 6 points as his first blink upward through the ice fails, but gets through succesfully on the second attempt. Heading back down goes more smoothly.
The Vote Renik waits with the Hole open. "Is everyone comfortable with this?" he asks.
Down in the Passage Assuming everyone agrees and they head down the shaft to the chamber entrance, Renik nods in agreement at Rond's suggestion, though not without trepidation. "OK, Rond. Try to keep out from under the stalegtites, Those things skewer you flat if they land on you, and you never know, there may be traps... "
Before heading out into the chamber (but waiting until any further discussion is concluded) Renik has Arien cast the various scrolls he has been carrying. They may be wasted, but then they may just save his life. Better safe than sorry...
(OOC: Based on previous rolls, 20th April, please let me know if you'd rather I reroll JK.)
In addition he drinks the following potions:
Protection From Elements (Cold) (duration 50 minutes) Protection from Elements (Fire) (duration 50 minutes
He removes a potion of Haste from his belt and holds it ready as he prepares to move, sword in hand.
Draax Monday May 5th, 2003 10:45:37 PM
Draax listens to everyone's suggestions. He feel better knowing that Feng can give them some type of warning before the creature is upon them. To Rond he say, "I really do not feel comfortable with just the two of you looking for the items. With the dragon gone I think speed is more important than stealth at the moment."
When Renik's mentions about the possibility of traps Draax sees the wisdom in not having a lot of them moving all over the place. "OK, I can see how if only a couple of us are doing the searching the safer it may be. But, since you will most likely you have to break the stalagmites to get to the treasure and find the items, it might be wise to have a couple of us close to lend a hand."
Draax scans the area where the group is gathered. "Also, I would really like to know if the way we came in is the only entrance/exit to this place."
Bill Troublefinder Monday May 5th, 2003 10:52:51 PM
Bill thanks Renik for the ferry ride. "Say, could I get that ring back, Renik? I've got an idea or two what to do with it."
Then, looking up at the vast, glorious chamber, the halfling gets excited. "Oooh. Oo-oo-oo... How about if a couple of us go up to the ceiling, then make a lot of noise and bang around on those icicles? The ones up top are called stalactites, if Darragh was right. Darragh is my mama's maid of honor's second cousin once removed. Or, they're stalactites and icicles - gotta get closer to see. Actually, stalactites look like icicles, but they're really made from, um, kind of a drippy stone stuff."
Then, realizing he's getting a bit carried away with his explanation, he says, "Well, anyway, we oughtta go up there, and send the spikey things raining down, before the dragon has a chance to do it to us - and when everybody's out of the way." He thinks about this, and how much fun it would be. "See if we're up high, right at the top, kinda in between the pokey things, then, they'll probably miss us on the way down."
His flushed face has the look of anticipatory delight that a boy might have after suggesting that he and his friends climb the tree and shake it hard to see how many apples might fall to the ground.
He gears himself up for flying, after redonning his outer pants, and hoisting his backpack over his shoulders again.
Feng Monday May 5th, 2003 10:56:20 PM
Feng follows along, scanning the large chamber.
OOC: I believe the detect evil has a 60ft range.
Hobbes Tuesday May 6th, 2003 1:38:06 AM
"I really don't like the idea of splitting the party at this point especially when there's an unaccounted for dragon about. If you meet him in there, you are dead. If we meet him out here, we are severely at a handicap. I've still got the Locate Object spell ready as well that could help in finding it quickly."
Rond Tuesday May 6th, 2003 8:10:25 AM
Rond frowns in consternation as no-one seems to understand his thinking. Of course he doesn't realize that he hasn't verbalized those thoughts!
"When I suggested the two of us to look around I was trying to use our stealth to our advantage. If the Dragon should return, I wanted to give us a chance to not be noticed, or at least a chance that we might surprise the dragon as much as he surprises us. If we all fan out and look around, or even if some of us do, there's more a chance that we can be caught off guard without doing the same to the Dragon."
With Hobbes comment about locate object Rond says, "then by all means lets pray that the object is here, and you find it with the spell. That might mean we could all move together. Also, do you or anyone have the ability to try to know where the dragon is? I'd hate to find out that he's invisible and listening to us right now." Rond shudders a little at that thought.
"Regardless of the outcome I think Bill that you should fly and try looking around from above, but use William to talk to us. If we cannot locate the objects via spell, or it's too general, then Renik I think you could head out in front of me and while you check for traps, I'll keep an eye out for anything else."
Down the shaft - DMJK Tuesday May 6th, 2003 10:39:58 AM
Since there seems to be no further disagreement about blinking through the ice in the portable hole, everyone hops in the bag, and Renik takes the group through the ice. Everyone experiences the same sort of trouble breathing as Bill did earlier and is quite happy to get out of the hole.
The trip down the side of the shaft takes some 15 minutes as it is a long, lazy spiral. The group carefully heads down as Bill natters on about knocking down the icicles. That gives the flying Renik time to scout ahead a bit.
He does notice not notice anything else about the room other than what he already saw.
The rest of the group makes it to the bottom, and Rond tries to convince them to split up while others suggest entering the chamber as a group.
For Feng the very chamber has a faint feeling of evil. The evil dragon has lived in there so long, that his taint lingers on in the ice. It's almost like how a skunk's spray fouls an area long after the creature is gone.
Renik Tuesday May 6th, 2003 3:47:25 PM
The rogue nods. "Right you are Rond. Over to you, Hobbes. Let's see if Gargul can make this a little easier for us, eh?"
He runs through an automatic check of his equipment as he waits, more a nervous reflex action than from neccessity.
Feng Tuesday May 6th, 2003 10:13:55 PM
"The Dragon is not here at the moment. The entire place reeks of evil. This Dragon has lived here for quite some time..." Feng pauses as something else crosses his mind. "Has anyone seen any sign of the dragons passing? Tracks, frozen bones, anything? It is possible that the dragon left or something drove it out."
Draax Tuesday May 6th, 2003 10:47:26 PM
Draax waits to see if Hobbes' spell succeeds in finding the items. He freezes for a second when Feng describes the evil aura emanating from everything and his theory about the dragon being driven away. "Although I would be very happy if the dragon was not coming back, I think the ice wall is an indicator that the dragon might still be around. But if you are right I would really hate fighting something that drove the dragon away."
Rond Wednesday May 7th, 2003 1:34:56 AM
While waiting for Hobbes, Rond listens to Feng and his report. Muttering under his breath Rond comments, "At least we don't have to really justify killing it anymore."
Should Hobbes know where the objects are with clear intent, then Rond will double check about locating spells either for the dragon, or to count the number of living beings in this chamber. Should there be no way to account for enemies, then Rond will advise Renik, Bill and him to go out as described above if no idea where the objects are. Renik and Rond leading the group if there's a relative bee line to the objects. Either way Renik will be looking for traps. Probably have detect magic up if possible, and any other magical means to determine if the party is in trouble.
Rond quickly quelches a quick bit of pessimism when he thinks, provided detection is not two big glowing eyes and a disembowled voice saying , "found you!"
Hobbes Wednesday May 7th, 2003 3:50:52 AM
Hobbes nods and descends with them into the lair, then prepares his spell, intoning foreign and alien intonements, turning a forked twig over and over in his hand and holding aloft his holy symbol. Peering intently at Bill's pictures and remembering the descriptions as well, he intones the final words of the spell [Locate Object] and places the image of Hororot's crown in his mind. He extends the twig in front of him waiting for an indication.
Arien Wednesday May 7th, 2003 4:40:03 AM
Arien casts any scrolls handed to him on the owners before quaffing a potion of protection from elements: cold himself.
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday May 7th, 2003 2:50:14 PM
"Okay, Rond. I'll fly up high, and see what I can from there. Does one other person, besides Renik and me, want to be able to fly? I can empower one." He waits a moment for a response to that before flying up to the ceiling, to begin traversing the cavern from the top, in the direction of the frosty pool.
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