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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