The remainder of the night, and the morning (DM Greg) d20+1=20 Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 9:45:31 PM
The party settles in for the remainder of the night, with some of the party members taking the sprite's advice, and actually getting some sleep. A few, however, still have trouble trusting the fey, and watch over their sleeping friends. Over the next six hours or so, the sprites flit around the clearing, stamping out and dousing the last of the embers from the fire.
In the morning, the party rouses, and packs to leave. Four fey women fly into the clearing, carrying a platter slung between them. On the platter are an assortment of fruits, vegetables and bread, as well as some small pieces of dried meat. At the same time, two sprite men roll a small sloshing cask across the clearing, and two others drag a tray holding a number of small cups. They breach the cask and pour the liquid, which turns out to be water, into the cups.
Fils turns to the rising party members, and says, "We have provided breakfast; please share with us. As I said last night, it is about two hours travel to the tree, so we should be leaving right after everyone has eaten. As long as we are there before the sun reaches its zenith, and the ritual is finished, we will be able to stop the shifter from collecting the sap."
[OOC: Kent, I read the Scry spell to only allow you to scry one target. I figured that you would rather check on Tremaine, so I am going with that. If you have an MDM ruling that allows you to scry more than one target with the spell, please let me know.] As the party is eating (or not, as the case may be), Ingrge takes out his mirror, and casts his scrying spell, targeting Tremaine. He sees Tremaine bending over a large apparatus that is attached to a huge tree trunk. The apparatus is made of numerous rods, gears, and pieces of metal, all seeming to be manufactured from semi-precious stones and precious metals. It is glowing with a sick greenish-yellow colour, and seems to be vibrating with power. Suddenly, the shifter stands straight up, and turns to face the spot containing the magical sensor created by the scrying spell. He frowns, and moves across the clearing surrounding the base of the tree. He continues to move into the forest, looking over his shoulder.
Lian Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 1:06:40 AM
After eating ample amounts of food, the monk sits back and allows the food to settle.
He waits for the party to move out, studying his scroll further. He remains quiet through the morning.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 10:15:37 AM
Bertram rises in the morning, pleasantly surprised by the night's quiet as well as a delivered breakfast. He prays to Domi for guidance for himself and the party in the hours ahead. He also prays to Gargul, unsure of how to properly pray to that being after meeting him.
((OOC Bert keeps same spells))
Orson Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 11:49:07 AM
Waking after his short rest, Olana having taken over watch, Orson eats a large breakfast of his trail rations, completely ignoring the feys offered foods. He eats quickly, and goes into his morning practice routines, though slides to a halt as the fey speaks of the trip to the tree. He was sure he heard the fey say 'we'.
"He's coming with us?" he asks questioningly towards K'Nara, but as he does he realizes she trusts him, so Orson doesn't wait for an answer before turning away and continuing his solo training. This was sounding worse all the time, now they would face the shifter with fey at there back, who might as well be working with him all along. But if the feys daughter was actually in trouble, he had to try and help.
DM Greg - OOC Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 12:38:52 PM
Did Ingrge and Figment rest at all after the test with the sprites? Please state this in today's post.
Ingrge Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 6:01:36 PM
Ater finishing his 1 hour scry Ingrge makes a brief notation about what he saw so that he remmebers and then continues with his plan for rest. (in previous post)
In the morning, Ingrge relates to the group and Fils what he saw during his scrying and finishes preparing the spells he is to have for the day. (Spell list coming today)
(OOC Greg no I was scrying for Tremaine but was hopeful of possibly catching a sighting of the lass as she is supposedly ON his person somewhere.)
[OOC: Kent, sorry I missed the resting in your last post. I thought you would be scrying in the morning, not the night before.
Milo Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 7:36:10 PM
After getting sufficient rest, Milo arises and prays to Pantheon as the light of day breaks into the wood. Afterward he goes about his morning wordlessly, though not without merriment, as he whistles a merry tune quietly to himself and is generally pleasant, leaving his thoughts to focus upon the day's appointed task of hunting down Tremaine.
Figment Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 10:40:19 PM
The mage nods to the warrior woman, their argument apparrently resolved. "Out of respect of for I will find another way to protect the party other than torching the forest. Please note I have several other options that may appear to be destructive, but they will only seem that way. If it looks otherwise I will ask for your trust.". The mage sleeps and then rememorizes spells the next morning.
Olana Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 11:15:16 PM
On watch in the early morning after some rest, Olana notes that Orson eats like a horse. She's astounded at the quantity and reckons he could run up quite a bill in a tavern. Still... they all had different energy levels and needs.
She accepts breakfast from the fey, thanks them graciously, and gets ready to move out once more.
K'Nara Thursday April 24th, 2003 7:32:08 AM
Just before dawn, K'Nara woke up. She silently removed herself from the immediate area and find a relatively nearby place to engage in the intricate but vital exercises that were standard for all bladesingers to practice. As she went through the fluid movements, her mind turned back to the day she met Gemsmith--her original bladesinger master--almost two years ago...
"This isn't going to be easy, girl," the elf told her, the ring of truth making his voice all the sharper, "Only one in ten elves who begin such training from the time they are adolescents actually completes the regimen and formally becomes a recognized bladesinger. You're a human and you're already an adult--two very large strikes against you."
"According to what you've told me already, Master Gemsmith," K'Nara replied, "My being human should make this training impossible...yet here you are, offering to teach me the secret of the bladesong--a crime in the eyes of elvenkind."
"Yet you would submit to having a mere elf be your master..?" Gemsmith retorted.
"Parnoth's endorsement of the persecution of elves was never anything that I agreed with," K'Nara answered, "For all that most of the village falls under his sway. Such bigotry is ignorant and unfair...and I will never knowingly be party to it."
"Bigotry isn't limited to either dragons or humans," Gemsmith said with a slight smile, "Which is the reason why I'm offering you the secret of the bladesong--you'll be the only human in The Wold to know it...as well as the only bladesinger in The Wold to utilize a bastard sword to perform it. So...you are with me, then?"
"Aye, master," K'Nara agreed, "I am with you."
Gemsmith had taught K'Nara not just the art of the bladesong, though--he taught her to view the Culverwood as the elves of the Emerald Kingdom did: not merely an ancient forest, but a veritable wellspring of life for all that lived in and near it. Most places in The Wold, Gemsmith had said, reflected the intentions of the lifeforms that lived there. The elves of the Culverwood had lived in the Emerald Kingdom for thousands of years, making the majority of the forest reflect their own reverence for the natural order of things...a view that was alien to most humans.
The tall female finished her exercises and then went about her morning routine, joining Olana when the fey appeared with breakfast. The ranger had an appetite, true--but the only other person K'Nara had ever known to keep up with K'Nara's own penchant for packing away the food was Valdor of the Gold Dragons.
To the tree (DM Greg) Thursday April 24th, 2003 12:46:48 PM
The party finishes breakfast, and readies for the day. Spells are memorized, prayers are offered, muscles are stretched and limbered up.
Finally, after the party is packed to leave, Fils approaches and says, "If you are ready to leave, I will lead you to the tree. Although I cannot directly attack the shifter or his minions, I can lead the way. I can also provide you with this scroll, similar to the ones that I used to summon the creatures for the test." [OOC: Summon monster V scroll at minimum caster level.] He offers the scroll to Figment. "I am sorry that you lost the ability to cast one of your spells during the test. I realize that this will not replace that spell, but perhaps it will be useful in the future."
Fils leads the party deeper into the forest. As you travel, you notice the regular small woodland creatures and associated noises. After about one and a half hours of walking, you can see the trees are getting larger, and less undergrowth is visible. The overhead canopy is at least 40' high, and very little sunlight penetrates to the forest floor.
Eventually, the sprite stops, points, and says, "The tree is about 300 yards in that direction. I do not want to travel any farther, in case the shifter spots my presence."
Lian d20+14=28 d20+17=37 d20+29=45 Thursday April 24th, 2003 11:37:24 PM
The monk continues with the party in silence as they move toward the tree.
(Move Silently 28, Listen 37, Hide 45(to stay out of sight of the tree or Tremaine)
Lian takes a standard action to shift his appearance slightly (while he's hidden), to 'look' like a half elf fighter in studded leather, changing his hair and eye color. He's carrying his bow. He moves slightly ahead of the party.
Brother Bertram Friday April 25th, 2003 3:53:43 AM
Bertram hefts his axe nervously, and prepares for battle.
Orson Friday April 25th, 2003 1:21:05 PM
Orson stretches his arms, loosening them up a little bit. He Glances towards the Talons leader as they move away from the fey, "What are our intentions here? Sounds like he will attack with dealy force against us, both he and his animals. What force do you intend us to retaliate with, should things turn bad?"
With her trust the fey and protect the forest attitude, he wanted to make sure he wouldn't fall under the groups wrath as Figment did for downing one of the beasts, or Tremaine, if he couldn't be reasoned with or subdued.
Olana d20+11=17 d20+13=21 Friday April 25th, 2003 1:52:57 PM
"Well, one thing's for sure," mentions Olana as Orson asks. "It's going to be hard taking him alive if he's as obsessed with this task of his as we've been told. If he wants to fight to the death, we have a struggle on our hands, and it appears too late to be digging holes or setting up traps to subdue him. It's a pity we can't throw him in a bag or put him to sleep or something."
She keeps an eye on Lian up front, just in case he discovers something, and meanwhile employs her own skills to discover any possible lurking dangers as they move ahead.
((Knowledge Nature DC 17, Wilderness lore DC 21))
Ingrge Friday April 25th, 2003 6:08:54 PM
well that is the question, isn't it? Do we try and take Tremaine alive, or do we just plain stop him?
First off I think we should not all go charging in from the same direction, I think we should go in pairs or some combination tha makes sense. And if you give me a few seconds I will cast a spell that might make him think we are coming from one place when we are not.
Milo Saturday April 26th, 2003 4:25:42 PM
Looking up to Olana, Milo speaks quietly, "Subdual is possible in hand to hand combat. I have training in this." Milo smiles.
K'Nara d20+5=17 d20=11 d20+1=11 Monday April 28th, 2003 12:03:40 PM
"I'd prefer him alive--we're all fairly sure that Tremaine isn't acting under his own willpower," K'Nara said, unsheathing her sword, "But--make no mistake--if he gives you no choice, give no quarter. Such is the way of battle.
"However...do keep in mind that we can stop him if we can take out that sap he's so keen to get his hands on, as well. As long as we can prevent him from completing whatever he has in mind for the stuff, we will make it impossible for him to carry out whatever mission he believes he must complete." So saying, the human bladesinger began to stealthily approach the tree's site, keeping her eyes and ears peeled for the slightest sign of Tremaine.
To the tree...again (DM Greg) Monday April 28th, 2003 5:36:05 PM
[OOC: Have a quick look at the DM posts from mid to late February, to help you figure out what you are expected to do with Tremaine.]
Fils flies over to Ingrge, and asks, "Can you scry the shifter, or the tree, again? It is important that we get a chance to see what he is doing. I believe that, as the ritual draws closer to completion, the colour of the apparatus will change from green at the beginning of the ritual, to a bright yellow near the end."
He flies quickly up to the top of the trees, and then flits back down. "The sun is about one hour short of its zenith, so I suggest you make your plans accordingly."
The party moves about 100 yards closer to the tree, to make their plans. No-one notices anything as they make their way that far. [OOC: It wasn't clear in your posts about how you planned to approach the tree. Were you all moving directly to the tree, or were some moving ahead to scout, while the rest waited behind? Some of you rolled hide and move silently, but not all of you. I have placed you about 200 yards from the tree, and about 100 yards away from where Fils is waiting.]
Brother Bertram Monday April 28th, 2003 8:44:02 PM
Bertram holds back , waiting, while allowing others to scout ahead. He will await for others to decide how to approach the tree.
Ingrge Monday April 28th, 2003 9:25:09 PM
Looking at Fils and then over to K'nara, Ingrge answers. Yes I can scry again but it will take a full hour during which I will be fully vulnerable.
Figment Monday April 28th, 2003 10:12:31 PM
The mage offers to the others. "Wait here a bit. I'll have a look around...". He casts improved invisibility on himself and proceeds to the side a bit. He then casts fly on himself and takes to the air. He patrols the area and returns to the others with a report (NOTE: I'm assuming we're not in combat so I cast 2 spells).
Olana Monday April 28th, 2003 11:43:07 PM
The elf waits for Figment to return, then they can plan accordingly.
Lian (change self) Tuesday April 29th, 2003 2:38:14 AM
Lian stops to wait for the bulk of the group to move forward. Stopping 100 yards from the tree. He still looks like the half-elven fighter in studded leather with a bow. He remains hidden and still.
Milo (endurance) d4+1=5 Tuesday April 29th, 2003 9:41:52 AM
Milo prays quietly to Pantheon for endurance in this up coming conflict, and then reaching into his satchel produces a pair of potions. Moving closer to Olana, he holds one of them out, and whispers, "This'll double your reflexes in the coming struggle, making you more difficult to hit, and allowing you to hit more often if need be." Milo smiles at her, "The feeling of pure speed can be... exhilerating as well." Milo keeps one of the potions in hand, ready for himself. (OOC: Milo cast endurance upon himself and rolled 5. The potions he is holding/offering to Olana are both potions of haste.)
Ingrge Tuesday April 29th, 2003 4:46:12 PM
Also before we go in we might want to cast a few spels on party member that would benefit from them. I have a cat's grace, a bull's strenght and a stone skin I can provide.
DEH Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:28:46 PM
I am going to be out of town Th, F, and then M, T of next week as well and unable to post. Can anyone post for Figment? I can post tomorrow. Thanks.
DEH Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:33:09 PM
My email is gareth-3@juno.com if you are interested.
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:38:25 PM
While waiting, Bertram exhorts Domi to favor him in the coming battle.
((OOC Casts Divine Power-raises base attack to +7 Strength is raised to 18 for a +4 modifier and adds 7 more hit points))
Olana Tuesday April 29th, 2003 11:00:03 PM
'Ooooooh,' says the elf, taking the HASTE potion from Milo, keeping it handy, ready to knock back once they know what they're doing. 'Thank you.' She smiles.
'Ingrge if you have something that will protect me, I'll gladly take it.'
A first scouting (DM Greg) Wednesday April 30th, 2003 11:39:21 PM
While the rest of the party waits, and casts preparatory spells, Lian and Figment move forward.
Lian moves forward, and stops some distance from the tree. The trunks of the larger trees, and the undergrowth, block his view of the clearing surrounding the Ish'gara tree, but he can make out a bright yellow glow coming from the direction of the tree.
Figment, invisible, flies closer for a look. As he approaches the clearing, he too sees a bright yellow glow coming through the forest. When he can see into the clearing proper, he notices a human figure hunched over a brightly-glowing apparatus. Lying some 15' to one side is the largest tiger that Figment has ever seen, dwarfing even the tigers that the party fought earlier in their quest. Of the blue-skinned ape-creatures, there is no sign.
Ingrge d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d20+22=42 Thursday May 1st, 2003 8:20:40 PM
Ingrge putters around a bit and then after setting up his mirror for scrying cast three spells on different part members. Casting Bull's strength on Olanna (+4 to strength) Cat's Grace on Bert (+5 dex to Bert) and stoneskin on K'nara.
Going back over to his mirror, he calls for fils and asks him what it is he should be looking for about the tree when he scrys Tremaine next. Getting the infor he attempts his scrying. (dc 10 - rolled a natural 20 for a 42)
Orson Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:04:20 PM
"We're waiting an hour?" Orson asks, seeing Ingrge setting up his mirror. "The tree's just over there, he can probably hear us if we talk loud enough."
Drawing his blades, he grips them firmly, tensing his muscles. "We should go now, fairy guy said we had to hurry, we shouldn't waste time." He glances towards K'Nara, as she has the final call.
DM Greg OOC Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:36:55 PM
Talons, I need to let you know that Donna is not feeling well at all, and won't be posting for a few days. Please do not wait for her to post. Who is the second in command?
Olana Thursday May 1st, 2003 11:58:47 PM
Olana accepts the Bulls Strength spell and prepares to go into battle, remembering the Haste potion in her pocket.
"This is just an idea," she says quietly. "But if we have to do this fast - then we should go straight for Tremaine, and try not to engage his creatures first. We'll just waste time fighting them and he'll be able to complete what he was doing."
Figment (Jan posting for DEH) Friday May 2nd, 2003 12:01:19 AM
Figment returns to the group and tells them about Tremaine, the yellow glow, the massive tiger, and no sign of the blue things.
"The fey said yellow would be the final stage of Tremaines spell. I don't think we can afford to wait."
((Kent's Ingrge is K'Nara's second in command))
Milo (endurance) d20+21=24 d20+23=27 Friday May 2nd, 2003 10:06:18 AM
Milo acknowledges Figment, "You're right... we shouldn't wait..." With that, he draws his short sword as he moves with all due haste toward Tremaine's location. (OOC: Made move silently and hide checks DC 24 and 27 respectively. Already penalized myself -5 for moving full speed)
Lian d20+29=47 d20+14=31 Friday May 2nd, 2003 10:11:18 AM
Like a snake circling its prey, Lian moves purposefully toward the glow, remaining as quiet and hidden as possible until he is afforded the opportunity to strike. (OOC: Made hide and move silently checks at DCs 47 and 31 respectively. Moving at half speed so as to allow others to catch up.)
Brother Bertram Sunday May 4th, 2003 11:11:22 PM
Bertram feels the spell cast by Ingrge begin to take effect and nods his thanks. Bertram waits for the groups hierarchy to decide when to advance.
More Recon Data...(DM Assistant Mark) Sunday May 4th, 2003 11:30:21 PM
Figment swoops in startling several members of the group before settling to the ground. He quickly relays what he saw through the trees ahead to the others. Ingrge's scrying reveals Tremaine, covered in sweat, straining, as the glow from the apparatus begins to grow, to take a life on of its own as from a great golden furnace. Ingrge's spell even allows him to note the hair on the back of the tiger begin to stand up, perhaps from the strange forces at work. Milo disappears into the trees, moving as quickly as possible. Lian's eyes are drawn to the glow ahead, but he still remains cautious.
Olana d20+13=15 d20+13=20 Tuesday May 6th, 2003 11:52:50 AM
Seeing Milo and Lian move ahead, Olana wonders what to do for the best. Tremaine had to be stopped, and fast.
Quickly, she moves ahead as quietly and as stealthily as she can to a position where she can take a flying leap and pounce on Tremaine.
((OOC - Attempting to get in position - Hide check DC15, Move Silently DC 20))
Ingrge (displacement) Tuesday May 6th, 2003 7:20:15 PM
heading out with the others Ingrge activates his staff while moving and suddenly Ingrge seems to be shifting from place to place. After arriving at the tree and seeing that everyone is ready he cast a spell aimed at attracting Tremaine's attention away from where the Talon's are. Ghost sound -twigs breaking -cast 45 feet to the left of where we are coming from.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 6th, 2003 9:28:13 PM
Bertram moves along as directed by Ingrge and K'nara, moving slowly, with axe at the ready.
Moving Closer (DM Assistant Mark) Wednesday May 7th, 2003 12:10:33 PM
The Talons begin thier advance upon Tremaine's position, with Milo, Olana and Ingrge leading the group. Lian is circling Tremaine, hidden somewhere in the surrounding overgrowth. Orson, Bertram, and K'nara make up the second wave of offense as they approach, with Figment to the rear to enable him to cast his spells undisturbed.
As the group approaches Tremaine, there is suddenly the sound of limbs cracking and the sound of dry twigs breaking under the weight of a heavy feet. At the sound, the tiger jumps to its feet and lets out an unearthly roar, its tail lashing as it paces beside Tremaine looking to see what is approaching. The unnerving roar of the tiger is almost forgotten however, as two sounds are heard that chills the blood of the Emerald Talons. The ghastly scream of the blue creature, quickly followed by the startled curse of Lian.
Lian is caught off guard by the sound of limbs breaking and sudden roar of the tiger. Suddenly he hears more movement in the underbrush, and is even more startled to find himself face-to-face with a large blue creature, with eyes full of hate and pent-up rage. The creature resembles a large frog from a surrealist nightmare, with wicked teeth and nasty spurs on each forearm. The creature was apparently responding to the same noise that Lian heard, for they both are surprised at seeing each other. But only for a second before the creature crouches into an offensive stance and screams out its challenge at Lian.
Figment Wednesday May 7th, 2003 11:20:27 PM
The mage hails the casting madman. "Hello, Trmaine. It's us, the Talons! Please call off your creatures and speak to us. If you will -what are you doing? And why? Can we help?".
Olana d20+17=26 Thursday May 8th, 2003 1:31:04 AM
Olana stops and hesitates as Figment hails Tremaine to see if it has any effect, her eyes on the large tiger that prowls nearby, her ears trying to pinpoint where Lian's call came from.
((Listen check DC 26))
Ingrge (Displaced) 3d6(6+5+6)=17 Thursday May 8th, 2003 6:43:44 PM
Stepping out in to the opening Ingrge moves around to get behind the tiger and casts a spell targeted right in front of it (Panatasmal killer - will DC18 to disbelieve if fail then needs to make fort save DC18 - if fail fort save then DIE if make fort save 17 damage)
Lian d20+6=23 d8-1=4 Thursday May 8th, 2003 8:56:57 PM
Seeing his imminent danger, Lian pops up onto the balls of his feet, anticipating the creature's attack, and ready to react.
(OOC: Lian is 'fighting defensively' raising his AC to 27 against this creature, 26 to others. As the blue creature attacks, Lian is going to attack using his stunning attack. Lian hits AC 23 [already figured the -4 for fighting defensively]for 4 hps damage. If that hits the creature must make a Fortitude save DC 18 or be stunned.)
Milo (endurance) d20+12=24 Thursday May 8th, 2003 9:03:53 PM
Realizing that something is attack Lian that isn't Tremaine, Milo turns and runs around the perimeter of the clearing, hoping to assist the elf monk, short sword in hand and ready.
Brother Bertram Thursday May 8th, 2003 9:42:13 PM
Bertram waits to see what occurs when Tremaine is spoken to, and to see if he responds.
Tiger by the Tail.... (DM Assistant Mark) d20=15 d20=9 d20=12 d2=1 d20=11 d2=2 2d4(3+3)+8=14 d20+11=25 d20+11=29 d20+11=15 d20+11=20 d20+11=12 2d6(6+1)+4=11 Thursday May 8th, 2003 10:43:14 PM
The Tiger shakes its head then looks about and sees a mixed image of Ingrge to the rear of him. With a snarl the creature launches itself at Ingrge, claws fully extended. The tiger connects with a massive paw, despite the spell, batting Ingrge sideways, causing serious damage to his side((Damage 14) . The tiger's next slash misses and the creature prepares once again to pounce. The blue creature facing Lian moves to attack with incredible speed, the rake of its claws weaving an array of offense. Lian defends skillfully only allowing one slash of the creature's claws to slash his shoulder(Damage 11) . The creature lunges forward to bite and Lian shrugs the attack off with little effort on his part. As this occurs the golden glow begins to recede from the tree and Tremaine's shoulders show relief from finishing a dificult task. He turns to the group somewhat slowly, then his face begins to take on a look of fury at seeing his creatures attacked. "Fools! I do this to free you from the iron claw of the Fiend, Parnoth!" He calls out an order in a strange language and another blue creature drops beside him and begins to charge towards the group in front of him. As the blue creature advances, Tremaine drops to all fours and his body changes. Tremaine now has the shape of the largest bear any of the party has ever seen. He charges forward towards the front of the party. ((OOC Map is being sent out now))
Tiger by the Tail.... (DM Assistant Mark) Addition Thursday May 8th, 2003 10:46:45 PM
Olana finds herself facing Tremaine in his bear form and the blue creature, with Orson close behind her, moving up to share the brunt of the assault. Bertram, and K'nara charge forward as well to meet the fearsome creatures.
Figment (Improved Invis, Fly) Friday May 9th, 2003 12:05:55 AM
The mage persists in trying to reason with the man. "Then why can we not speak before we fight? We did not come to stop you, we came to help you! You attack your allies!". The mage winds up and casts if Tremaine refuses to relent from the fight. He holds his attack to see if he will stop the fight. He casts Stoneskin on Olana.
Milo (endurance, haste, AC 26, 27 vs. the creature) d20+13=26 d20+13=30 5d6(6+6+3+2+4)+1=22 5d6(6+5+2+1+4)+1=19 Friday May 9th, 2003 1:24:42 PM
As Lian and the creature come into sight, Milo drinks the potion of haste in hand, and moving with preternatural speed steps up into the flanking position to attack the creature. Milo's blade is a whirling scythe of death as he strikes at the creature's vitals. (OOC: Hit ACs 26 and 30 for 22 and 19 hps of damage respectively.)
Lian Friday May 9th, 2003 1:29:10 PM
Seeing that his attack did no good, Lian goes fully defensive, attempting to distract the creature as Milo moves in for the kill behind it. (OOC: In full defense AC is 30 vs. the creature, 29 against all others.)
Tiger by the Tail.... (DM Assistant Mark) d20=3 Friday May 9th, 2003 9:06:19 PM
Lians hit did indeed strike causing the creature to take a half step back, its head rocked by the blow. This causes the creature to miss Milo moving in stealthily for the attack.
((OOC Sorry I missed your attack statement Lian-the creature did miss its Fort save. Nicely done.))
Ingrge (Displaced- 50% chance of missing, hasted, AC 25) Friday May 9th, 2003 9:48:46 PM
Disapointed, but not dismayed by the outcome of his previous spell, Ingrge is rocked by the first claw that rakes across his side. Activating his boots of speed Ingrge releases another charge from his staff right into the tigers eyes. (Color Spray Will DC 18 or stunned for 1 round.)
Olana (Stoneskin, Haste) Saturday May 10th, 2003 1:32:59 AM
Olana feels the effect of Figment's spell, glances back and nods in thanks. She also quickly pulls out the stopper of the potion Milo gives her (HASTE) and downs it.
Pulling both blades she watches the bear/Tremaine warily. Right now she didn't want to go in slicing, but her only other option seemed to be to whack the beast with the flat of her blades.
It would be nice if the druid would see reason, but somehow she figured it wouldn't be as simple as that. "Please," she said " you have been misled. Think. Try to clear your mind. Were you not the one that told us originally that Parnoth should stay alive?"
Blinded by the Light.... (DM Assistant Mark) d20+11=14 Sunday May 11th, 2003 9:03:01 PM
Ingrge's spell has the desired effect, the tiger staggers back, stunned by the power of the spell. Milo's work is indeed effective slicing the blue creature horribly, as the creature falls back from the painful onslaught. Tremaine slows and roars out a command and the blue creature nearest him comes a halt. His shaggy head turns to the side regarding all of you. He then quickly transforms back to his human form. He calls out and a weak answer is heard from the other blue creature, currently being carved by Milo. (OOC The Blue Creature stops fighting Milo)
As he raises himself up and regards you he looks to each of you in view. "Talons, It is good to see you, but why do you hinder me in my worthy task? I have the means here to destroy Parnoth! Surely that is good news to each of you."
Figment Monday May 12th, 2003 12:12:17 AM
The mage decides to attempt to avert an all out fight and offers an idea to Tremaine "We do not attempt to hinder you if you can remove the green meanie, my friend. We have been told that you have been acting strangely and that you had lost your senses. It seems to me you have not but your behavior does seem a bit out of character. Will you please - for our own peace of mind - explain what is happening here? You clearly have the power to finish the job, there is no need to fight us. If you are doing what you say we will not only stay out of your way, we will help!".
Milo (endurance, haste) d20+12=23 Monday May 12th, 2003 10:25:51 AM
Sword still at the ready, though relaxed only slightly, Milo stands and listens to the exchange between Figment and Tremaine. He then thinks to himself with wonder, 'Either Figment is joking or he is attempting to determine Tremaine's state of mind or some such ruse, I hope. Parnoth saved the children of that town by redirecting us to save them. He has changed.' Grabbing his periapt/holy symbol of Pantheon, Milo weighs Figment's words against his posture and tone of voice and concentrates. (OOC: Using the Sense Motive/Truthtest ability of a Justicar on Figment. Sense Motive DC 23)
Lian Monday May 12th, 2003 10:29:16 AM
Standing at the ready, though listening to what is going on inside the circle of trees, Lian concentrates, meditating where he stands, and willing his wounds to close. (OOC: Lian uses his wholeness of body to cure the 11 hps damage he took from the blue creature.)
Ingrge Monday May 12th, 2003 7:00:33 PM
Listening to Tremaine, Ingrge shudders as he hears the fanaticism in his voice. Moving slowly towards the Tine's leader, Ingrge speaks. "Tremaine, What happened to you while you were in the care of the Hands of Love? Always you have said that Parnoth should not be killed. You know that we have no great love for Parnoth, but why the sudden change of attitude. Parnoth has freed the slaves (as far as we know) and has allied himself with the Gold Dragons even. Does this not show his change of attitude? Why kill him now when it made more sense before?
Olana Tuesday May 13th, 2003 1:19:34 AM
Olana lowers her blades slowly as Tremaine changes back into his original form, and she watches as Figment, Ingrge and Milo talk it out with him.
This seemed to be going far too easily, or maybe - gods forbid - she was getting cynical in her old age. Mind you - she wasn't all that old either. Maybe she was going mad instead.
Lian Tuesday May 13th, 2003 2:21:44 PM
OOC: Hello from Ireland all!
Lian does something heroic. :)
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 13th, 2003 8:45:20 PM
Bertram halts unsure what to do next. He keeps his axe at the ready and waits to see what happens.
Justice for all....(DM Assistant Mark) Wednesday May 14th, 2003 3:42:00 AM
Tremaine grimaces at Figment's words but does acknowledge them. "Bah! Fools say just because you see more clearly than them you are mad. I tell you the opportunity has arisen for me to destroy that foul beast. In fact, it is finished. The tree has yielded what I need to make Parnoth but a painful memory." Tremaine turns to Ingrge with a look of rage. "Speak not to me as if I have become unhinged. I am in complete control of my senses. Just because you dont agree with me does not make me wrong. Parnoth has controlled the kingdom for far too long. Call it coming to my senses finally if you will. I have found a way! The Kingdom can finaly be free!" Tremaine watches Ingrge suspicously and backs away from him. The tiger has calmed down and appears to be back in control of its senses, but is doing nothing. The blue creatures begin speaking in a strange language while watching the Talons and Tremaine.
Ingrge Wednesday May 14th, 2003 9:41:55 PM
Trying to move so that he can get between Tremaine and the tree Ingrge starts uttering a few words under his breath in preparation of casting a spell.(Unseen servant - instructed to take and hold the bucket and remove the tap from the tree.)
Figment d20+21=25 d20+21=40 d20+21=39 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 11:03:28 PM
The mage continues the banter. "You seem to be in control. In fact, I was not concerned about that part. Before we go and destroy him, though, are you sure that is the best move at this time? I am very skeptical to believe the beast has changed, and even if he has changed he has clearly done so much wrong that he deserves to be destroyed. Furthermore, even if we could overlook all that, what guarantee do we have that he won't change back? But it is a huge move. What do we do once he is gone? We must have a plan. How do you know for certain we can destroy him? And Tremaine, you are holding a hostage. This is unlike you. You should release the girl if you have what you need. She has done you no harm, has she?".
Figment begins looking closely at the creatures accompanying the shapeshifter. He begins to look to see if they are in some way holding sway over Tremaine of he controls them (Alchemy: 25, Knowledge Arcana: 40, Spellcraft: 39).
Olana Thursday May 15th, 2003 2:37:13 AM
Olana listens to what's going on. Tremaine did have a case. However... she didn't think ridding the Kingdom of Parnoth, just like that was the answer either. Too much instability.
"Tremaine," she asks softly. "Do you remember the Hands of Love? What they did to you?"
Milo (endurance, haste) d20+12=26 d20+12=24 Thursday May 15th, 2003 9:18:16 AM
Milo stands and listens carefully to the conversation going on, concentrating on Figment's words, and judging Tremaine's reaction to them afterwards. (OOC: Sense Motive DC 26 for Figment and DC 24 for Treemaine)
Brother Bertram Thursday May 15th, 2003 2:40:33 PM
Bertram casually begins walking about as if looking at the grove and trees while listening to the debate. His steps will lead him closer to the blue creatures however.
Who deceives who...(DM Assistant Mark) d100=6 d100=83 Thursday May 15th, 2003 2:57:02 PM
As Ingrge begins to move Tremaine moves also, casually backing towards the tree. "You will stop at once if you wish to see the creature alive again! I would not kill you my friends, but I will not be thwarted either. My purpose is clear! As to the Hands of Love" Tremaine rubs his head here for a moment then resumes speaking, "I spent...I spent, a, that is a, a, short period there and then I left. That is all to that story, speak not to me of them again. It does not concern my purpose here today!" To Figment, Tremaine appears to visibly relax, glad to find an ally of sorts. "You understand me indeed do you not? I knew that my message would fall on certain deaf ears, but I knew the message would spread, and a few chosen would heed. I am glad you have heard these words my friend!" Milo thinks that Figment is leading on the druid, but isn't completely sure. There is just enough ambiguity to make him wonder. As for Tremaine, Milo gets the feeling that Tremaine desparately wants an ally in Figment, but is still wary. As Bertram approaches the blue creatures, thier words began to take on the sound of chanting. A shimmering begins in the air and the air is displaced as another of the blue creatures appears in thier midst.
Lian Thursday May 15th, 2003 8:57:37 PM
Noticing the canny dwarf cleric heading toward the blue creatures, Lian makes his way that direction as well. Though he does so as casually as possible.
Figment (Improved Invis, Fly) Thursday May 15th, 2003 11:35:08 PM
The mage grimaces as the druid threatens his hostage. "We are allies, my friend. You know that. Ask yourself this question: Why does your head hurt when Olana mentions your enemies? How have they changed you? I do not suggest your task is not noble - nor that we will not help you - but you may do well to pause and consider what has happened to you. Who are these blue creatures with you? I have not seen their like before?". The mage casts detect magic under his breath - masking his voice as other speak - and stares at the blue creatures and then Tremaine. He tries to figure out what they are. (What did Figment determine from his observations last turn?).
Who deceives who...(DM Assistant Mark) Friday May 16th, 2003 2:14:47 PM
((OOC Figment your observations led you to believe that it was perhaps the other way around, that Tremaine held some sway over them. Sorry I didnt respond to that earlier.))
Ingrge (Displaced, Unseen servant) Friday May 16th, 2003 5:10:29 PM
Ingrge stops advancing and momentarily turns his back on Tremaine while he comlpetes the casting of his unseen servant spell. Once cast Ingrge turns back and advances no further, but mentally issues the commands to it, to remove the tap from the tree, and to bring the bucket to him.
Milo (endurance, haste) Friday May 16th, 2003 8:46:54 PM
Convinced that Figment is attempting to secure the safety of Tremaine's hostage, he relaxes his concentration on the wizard, and feels somewhat guilty he even doubted. He then quashes his feelings of guilt for the moment as he sees Lian and Bertram closing on the blue creatures, and lines himself up for a charge should combat resume. Not wanting to spoil the negotiations however, the halfling remains silent.
Brother Bertram Saturday May 17th, 2003 1:02:41 PM
Surprised by seeing the third blue creature suddenly appear out of the air, Bertram mutters an oath and brings his axe up instinctively, waiting to see what the creatures were up to.
Olana d20+13=18 Saturday May 17th, 2003 9:59:14 PM
To the elf, there seemed to be some kind of precarious balance here. Should she mention the Hands of Love again? It certainly got a reaction, but was that what they wanted now? What if he reacted the wrong way?
Where was the hostage, she wondered? As Figment kept Tremaine in conversation, she glanced around slowly, her keen eyes on the lookout for signs of anyone taken captive.
((Spot check DC 18))
Lian (Jay) Sunday May 18th, 2003 11:47:05 AM
OOC: Hello from Scotland friends. Could someone send me a summary(via email) of the last three weeks, in game accounts that is? Thank you. :)
DM Greg Monday May 19th, 2003 11:26:42 PM
[OOC: Thanks for your help with the back-up, Mark. You have done a great job.]
DM Greg Monday May 19th, 2003 11:39:33 PM
[OOC: A word of warning: two of you have tried to cast spells "under your breath". If you read page 151 of the PH, it says a verbal component is spoken "in a strong voice". You cannot mutter the verbal components of a spell. They must be spoken at least in a moderate conversational voice. Since you may have been unaware of this, I will assume that your spells have not been cast. If you try to cast a spell without adequate verbalizing, it will fail, similar to casting a spell without a necessary component.]
Who deceives who...(DM Greg) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 12:02:10 AM
Lian and Bertram sidle their way towards the suddenly-multiplying blue creatures. They stop short as the third creature materializes with a loud POP!
Ingrge readies his unseen servant spell, but realizes that Tremaine will almost certainly detect his spellcasting without a significant diversion, so rethinks his decision.
Milo readies himself for whatever results in the clearing in front of the Ish'gara tree.
Olana looks around the clearing for any signs of a hostage, but can see nothing that would indicate anything is being held prisoner; even a tiny creature such as a sprite's daughter.
Figment continues to discuss the situation with the Tine leader, and rethinks his decision to try to mutter his spell casting. He tries to determine the identity of the blue creatures, but is unable to place them. [OOC: Wrong type of knowledge checks.] He does figure that they are not likely from this plane of existence.
Tremaine answers Figment, "Enough questions about my time with the Hands of Love! That topic is none of your concern, and is closed! These beings (indicating the blue creatures) were given to me to aid me in this momentous task, and are excellent guards. Now, as for how you can help me finish this: you can lower your weapons, and form a defensive circle at the edge of the clearing, facing outward. Even though I may have his daughter, I still don't trust that fey and his tribe, with their deceiving ways."
"I only need to add the final ingredient, and carry out the...the final step, and the elixir will be complete. You need to make sure that I am not disturbed in these final crucial steps."
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 20th, 2003 4:16:38 PM
Bertram meets Tremaine's words with a snort of amusement. "Three of these blue fiends, a giant tiger, and you obviously out of your nature-loving mind... Excuse me if I do not turn my back, Friend." Bertram shakes his head and grins wolfishly at Tremaine, keeping his axe readied in case of attack.
Milo (endurance, haste) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 5:29:09 PM
Milo's eyes narrow at Tremaine, though the halfling justicar remains silent and motionless, having absolutely no intention of turning his back on the obviously crazed druid. Thinking to himself, 'Somebody better do something to get this going. I feel those old familiar urges to do something horribly rash creeping up on me.'
Lian Tuesday May 20th, 2003 5:30:11 PM
Lian remains where he is, eyes on Tremaine, but also aware of the blue creatures as well. He shows no sign of turning his back on the man.
Ingrge (Displaced) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 10:13:31 PM
(OOC Greg, Ingrge only turned his back to Tremaine and then finished his casting verbal or otherwise Being displace it is going to be much harder for him to follow the spell casting and from behind me even more unlikely, even if he has suddenly become a wizard. Ingrge also turned his back on him to show that he was not overtly offering to attack him. If through all that a non wizard can tell what spell is being cast on the otherside of a displaced spellcaster then so be it) Ingrge cast the spell and issued its order.)
Ingrge continues to direct his servant with his back turned like Tremaine requested.
Who deceives who...(DM Greg) d20+6=10 d20+8=20 Tuesday May 20th, 2003 11:52:39 PM
The Tine leader watches the odd behaviour by the wizard, as Ingrge approaches the shapeshifter, turns around and casts a spell, and then turns back to face him. "You!" Tremaine shouts, "Call off your servant! Do you take me for a fool?" [OOC: Successful spot roll to notice what the wizard is doing, and successful spellcraft roll to recognize the spell.] He calls out to one of the blue-skinned creatures, in a gutteral language. As the unseen servant removes the pail from the tap, and starts to carry it back across the clearing, the blue creature steps up beside it and easily wrests the pail from the spirit's grasp, returning and handing the pail to the shapeshifter. [OOC: Servant speed 15', Strength 2; Blue creature speed 30', Strength 19]
Tremaine smiles, but the smile doesn't reach his eyes. He nods his head at Ingrge, and says, "Thank you for your help in retrieving the pail. Now, to finish the ceremony. You all keep your eyes open for those little fey meddlers." He puts the bucket on the ground, clamping it between his feet. Then he pulls a large vial out of his belt pouch, and holds it up to the morning light. The liquid in the vial is a thick dark red, and the air immediately around the vial seems to shimmer, as if the vial is heating the surrounding air. The shifter holds the vial up higher, and speaks a number of phrases in a deep, reverant voice. The air around the vial shimmers even more violently, and the vial appears to be engulfed in bright red flames, although Tremaine appears to be unaffected by the fire.
As the shifter appears to finish his casting, a small high-pitched voice whispers beside Olana's ear, "By the Great Tree, that is red dragon's blood, and he has charged it with his spell! I think I know what he plans. You cannot allow him to empty that vial into the sap!"
Olana d20+11=16 d20+11=28 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 1:43:42 AM
The elf has no idea where the voice came from, but she suspects it is one of the fey.
"Red dragon's blood!" she yells and takes a flying leap toward Tremaine - in a desperate attempt to grapple with the druid and stop him from completing the process.
(Grapple check DC 16 - re-rolled using hero point DC 28)
Brother Bertram d20+10=25 d10+10=20 2d6(6+4)=10 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 2:13:30 PM
Seeing Olana make her move, Bertram summons strength into his gnarled limbs as he hefts his axe, then without further warning swings the blade with all of his might burying the axe in the chest of the blue creature nearest him. He roars out a battle cry as he feels the meaty chunk of the axe sinking home. He howls gleefully as the blue creature lets out a horrific scream.
((OOC Strength Domain(+7 for one round) 30 points of damage to the blue creature. 2d6 is the added bonus from the Lawful axe versus chaotic creatures))
Ingrge (displaced, Speed - 50% miss, then AC 25 d20+10=30 d3=3 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 6:23:50 PM
Seeing Tremaine start reach for his pouch and start his spell actions, Ingrge casts Ray of Frost at the inside of the bucket. and then activates his boots of speed.(Ranged touch attack hits AC 30: Natural 20, Damage 3 if needed)
Figment d20+7=22 d4=4 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 11:16:27 PM
The mage decides that it is time to act. "You must stop, my friend. The Hands of Love are our business and you have fallen into their influence unknowingly.". The mage flies right over to the druid so as to be in virtually point blank range. A ray of negative black energy discharges and whacks the druid (hit AC 22 Ranged Touch, 4 levels lost - no save).
Lian d20+16=25 d20+10=22 d8-1=3 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:10:48 AM
Seeing the moment arise, Lian tumbles across the glade to end up on the side of Tremaine opposite the rest of the party, and lashes out with practiced ease, attempting to stun the druid. (OOC: Made a Tumble check DC 25 to avoid attacks of opportunity on the way around Tremaine. Attacked with a stunning attack, hitting AC 22 for 3 hps damage. If this hits, Tremaine must succeed a Fortitude save DC 18 or be stunned.)
Milo (endurance) d20+15=33 d20+15=34 5d6(4+6+6+6+1)+1=24 5d6(3+6+3+1+3)+1=17 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:15:17 AM
Milo's spring-loaded reflexes kick in a split second after Lian's, and the halfling charges to flank the druid opposite the monk, his short sword a whirling blur of death. (OOC: Milo charges to flank Tremaine attacking with the short sword of speed and hitting ACs 33 and 34 for 24 and 17 hps of damage respectively.)
DM Greg Thursday May 22nd, 2003 12:48:02 PM
[OOC: Just a gentle reminder to please post your AC, present and maximum hit points, and any spells affecting you, in your character post title when combat is going on. It saves me keeping track of all that stuff. Also, DEH (and others), please post the title of the spell that you are throwing. I will post later this evening. Here we go...]
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