DM Kent d20+11=16 d20+11=14 d20+11=15 d20+8=12 d20+8=16 d20+6=11 Monday November 17th, 2003 10:03:47 PM
Again the retreat goes along and with Figment's aid Milo and Ingrge manage to make it through the door and back outside.
K'nara manages to chip a few more bones from the Naga she is attacking, while Bertram and Olanna back away (#3 is invisible) defending the slower enfeebled ones.
Orson looking like he would rather stay and defeat these beasts, sees the foly of staing alone and starts backing out with K'nara.
As everyone leaves the nagas try and stop the defnders but all miss horribly. (Geesh, My die rolls s***)
As Figment makes it outside, he starts to look for the Mantises and has no difficulty finding them as they are exactly where they were before, just in the edge of the trees making a lot of threatening noise and moving toward where you are. (Figment Roll Knowledge Arcana skill check DC18)
Milo Monday November 17th, 2003 11:23:55 PM
Not wanting to exit the building and leave himself vulnerable to attack by the preying mantises, Milo stops just short of the door. Digging through his satchel, he pulls out the magical miniature chocolate mouse. Having no idea what the thing does, but thinking that it couldn't possibly hurt, Milo pops the thing in his mouth and begins to chew as vigorously as possible before swallowing it.
Olana Tuesday November 18th, 2003 12:26:25 PM
"Where are we supposed to go next?" yells the elf, backing out. "Which way?"
Orson (AC 17, HP 66) Tuesday November 18th, 2003 6:35:12 PM
"I don't think retreating is going to work," Orson says, Glancing towards the enemies on both sides. "What if we run into something even worse, and get caught between 3 foes, instead of just facing one or two."
Gripping the hilt of his blade tight with both hands, he looks towards where the Mantis things are. "I think dealing with those with our magic would be easiest, then one less thing to worry about." He readies himself to move towards the Manti (and out of the 'anti-magic zone'), but will only go if the group moves as a whole.
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 18th, 2003 7:47:33 PM
Bertram trusts the others to keep an eye on any other threats, he keeps his eye on the Nagas in case of attack from that quarter.
Lian Tuesday November 18th, 2003 8:15:38 PM
(OOC: Machine still down. Currently on friends machine.)
Lian will attack a mantis if it come within reach.
Figment d20+21=37 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 10:30:01 PM
The mage looks over the mantises to see why they look to be in the exact same place as they were before... (Arcana 37). He prepares to cover the retreat of K'Nara and the rest of the Talons as the bugs don't seem to be closing at full blast.
Jay B (Lian) Tuesday November 18th, 2003 11:33:47 PM
OOC: Okay all, good and bad news. Good first, I have a good idea what type of machine I'll be purchasing and how much it'll cost. Bad news, I don't know when I'll be purchasing it or when I will be back. Either I'll send out for it through Dell, which takes 2 to 6 weeks to deliver or going and buying tomorrow at the local computer place and spend about $500 more for convienience. :)
DM Kent Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:08:00 AM
Figment looks over the Mantises and then consults with Ingrge just to see if he sees the same things and then with a light shake of their heads and wry chuckle state that the mantises near the trees are nothing more than a really elaborate and well put together illusion, which is failing a bit now as the dead magic zone moves through.
Orson comments on the dealing with the mantises with their magic and realises there has been no lessening of weight to any of his items to suggest that their magic is yet functional.
At olanna's call about which way they should go, figment goes to take out the compass and midway remembers the dead zone and ceases. Turning back he points in the direction that it had previously aimed them toward.
With help from the others, Milo and Ingrge manage to wobble along with the party, but the pace is extremely slow and Olanna's new appendage is not helping things with ts ucontrolled lashing about. It looks like it is going to be a slow and arduous trip when suddenly in three or four minutes both Ingrge and Milo are suddenly perfectly fit and strong and able to walk. Moments later Olanna's appendage drops off several steps later leaving a raw red spot where it had been (it will heal naturally).
Bertram feels his strength return several minutes later and about 15 minutes into this leg of their trip they fel themselves push through the far edge of the dead zone and all feel a lightening of their load as their magic regains its lack of weight.
Figment once again takes out the compass to check the way and when he lifts it up it starts spinning wildly from side to side and back again as if it is unable to decide on a path.
Almost immediately they all here a weak, soft pleading female voice in their heads that calls out for help. A few moments later it is heard again but with just a little more information.
Help me please. I am held captive. I am controling your guide now it will lead you to me. I will release it when I am freed. Help me and I can and will help you. They are going to kill me soo....
....Help me...
Suddenly the compass stops spinning and is still again and points in a direction just slightly different to what you were previously going.
Lian Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:33:26 AM
The monk watches the compass over Figment's shoulder. When is stops spinning, he looks at Figment. "Is it supposed to do that?" He asks calmly.
K'Nara Wednesday November 19th, 2003 3:57:35 PM
" . . . . . !" K'Nara said as she backed out of the building and then was finally able to turn around and see the threat of the mantises.
However, Figment managed to convey that the beasts were merely illusion.
What a trip THIS was turning out to be.
(OOC: is the Silence spell also worn off?)YES
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 19th, 2003 6:51:51 PM
Bertram scratches mildly at his grizzled beard after hearing the cry for help form in his mind. He keeps an eye on the surroundings for more foes, real or imagined. He looks in the direction of the cry for any signs of movement.
Figment d20+9=16 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:19:20 PM
The mage sighs as they make their way. "No, Milo. It's not supposed to do that. The only way to prevent this entity from controlling the compass would be to move on in the direction we were going and ignore the plea in hopes of moving out of its sphere of influence. It could be a trap. And someone powerful enough to control a magic item such as this from a distance is powerful indeed. How can we stand against those who hold the entity captive? Tough choice...". The mage listens carefully to the voice in hopes it can find a flaw (Int 16). He responds via thought "Who are you and who are those who hold you captive? What should we know that may interfere with our efforts should we attempt this?".
Olana d20+12=29 d20+17=27 d20+13=30 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 11:46:32 PM
"Ouch.." says Olana softly as the appendage drops off. "No one poke me in the ribs, okay?"
After the plea for help is heard -
"I'll move ahead a little. See what I can see." Olana then takes a good note of the ground in front of her, and her surroundings - vaguely in the direction of the pointer, never straying too far from the rest of the party.
(Survival DC 29, Listen DC 27, Spot DC 30)
Milo d20+21=39 Thursday November 20th, 2003 12:18:17 AM
Strength returned, Milo moves off ahead of the group, shadowing Olana by about 5 feet. He remains silent in voice and of foot, though he moves at normal speed. (OOC: Move silently DC 39 with a -5 penalty already imposed for moving at regular speed.)
DM kent Thursday November 20th, 2003 7:09:38 AM
The voice sounds sincere to Figment and sounded quite weak. The voice is definitely neither young nor old and sounds nearly resigned and hopeless. The one strange thing that Figment notices that he is not sure that the message was meant for ONLY them. It seems to have been more of a "To anyone out there who can help me" type of call.
Nearly as he has these thoughts and questions he is contacted again. the touch again is weak but less tenuous.
who....? ....mage.... here....week.... After..........someone .....heard ... flam.......letons.... ...abl... to lea ...uo...of here and to saf.... will help y... with whate... you ...her...fo.. to ....est ..... ability.
Olanna and Milo find no traces of any apparent trail, but come across and number of types of paw/foot/claw/tail prints.
As you all start moving past the buildings you pass through another thick aired area, this time however your magic items seem to be fine.
K'Nara Thursday November 20th, 2003 5:40:51 PM
The leader of the Talons frowned--quite obviously the nagas have NOT followed the group.
"Sorry about that, Orson," she said with a frown, "Obviously those things are too well entrenched within their particular area to risk coming out."
When the plea for help interrupted the compass heading, K'Nara was not pleased.
"This whole thing is getting more and more involved." she said with a bit of a growl. "Now we have to go help whoever it is that's mucking with the compass or we may not find that weapon before that Hands survivor gets reinforcements or something." The chestnut-maned fighter was less than thrilled--she was one who dearly clung to her perception of free will...and getting hijacked in the middle of a mission by an unseen, telepathic speaker was getting on her last nerve.
Brother Bertram Thursday November 20th, 2003 6:45:05 PM
Bertram made his decision quickly and started off towards where the weak voice was indicated. The voice was definitely getting weaker. He did not want to risk losing the voice before it faded completely. Bertram still retained his wits and kept an eye out for trouble.
Lian Thursday November 20th, 2003 7:17:11 PM
As Bertram moves off, Lian looks to K'nara. "Do we follow?"
Figment Thursday November 20th, 2003 8:15:24 PM
The mage sighs. "I expect we should help. The voice - I think - is genuine. There is a real being in trouble.". The mage points the way that the compas iss leading. He thinks to the voice "Tell us about your captives: How many, who are they, what can they do, etc".
Ingrge Thursday November 20th, 2003 8:15:52 PM
Looking back toward the naga building and still feeling a bit wobbly, Ingrge looks around and then promptly falls in beside Bertram.
"You know, I'm not sure that this is necessarily the wisest course of action but, I feel the need to help this person for some reason."
Milo d20+21=37 d20+14=17 Thursday November 20th, 2003 10:12:36 PM
With a dubious look on his face, Milo quietly stalks off toward the direction that Figment points, looking for the source of the wizard's disturbance. (OOC: Move silently DC 37 with -5 penalty for moving full speed figure in already. Spot check DC 17.)
Olana d20+17=28 d20+13=17 Thursday November 20th, 2003 11:10:19 PM
Olana points out the tracks to everyone. "Could be any manner of thing, in this horrible place, so everyone be careful."
She moves after Bertram, Milo and Ingrge, keeping her ears and eyes open for anything thats likely to ambush them from the flanks.
((Listen DC 28, Spot DC 17))
Lian(Jay B) Friday November 21st, 2003 8:25:18 AM
OOC: My machine is temperarily wworking, in safety mode.
The monk follows his dwarven friend.
K'Nara Friday November 21st, 2003 2:46:34 PM
"Yes, we'll go help." K'Nara said with a nod and a set expression. "We have to, really--the compass is pointing in a new direction and may not go back to our original course unless we help out whoever it is that's messing with it."
She trouped along with the others, still with a bit of a scowl on her fair face...but, really, there wasn't any other choice at the moment.
DM Kent Friday November 21st, 2003 5:41:55 PM
There is no more direct contact from the voice, but Figment gets a distinct impression of flames surrounding a laughing skull. He gets a brief flash of that thought and then it is quickly snuffed out with an excrutiating sharp pain that nearly drops figment to his knees, it is so real.
Following the guiding compass, although the light that was so bright just moments ago is barely lit now, the party make their way through a very overgrown part of the city where the remains of buildings can barely be seen on the ground through the vegetation.
After several minutes the compass light gets a bit stronger and there in front of you about 300 ft ahead of you is probably the largest tree you have ever seen. The base of the trunk looks like it has swallowed a small stone mausoleum and the 10 ft wide iron gated entrance takes up just less than a third of the tree's width. The top of the tree can't be seen from where you are and as far up as you can see the trunk doesn't seem to get any narrower.
It is to this tree and beyond the gat which the compass is leading you.
Brother Bertram d20=3 Friday November 21st, 2003 9:19:43 PM
Bertram moves towards the mausoleum and the colossal tree. He keeps an eye out as best he can for anything moving.
Figment Friday November 21st, 2003 11:07:26 PM
The mage almost crumbles from the shot of mental pain. He pauses a minute, looks around, and keeps moving. He directs the others with Bertram. "It's that way... I doubt we are going to suprise anything s get ready to fight...".
Lian (Jay B) Saturday November 22nd, 2003 6:27:45 AM
OOC: Still having computer issues. I may be posting spotty at best.
IC: The monk follows in silence and feels little need to rush along.
Seeing the tree, the elf stares in horror at the iron gate that corrupts the massive natural form. "Well, now that is truly disturbing."
Orson Saturday November 22nd, 2003 10:21:21 AM
Orson grips his blade a little tighter at Figments suggestion, the big warrior already expecting a fight. "Remember, this may be a trap of some sort. Figure anything that could mess with that compass thing, prolly is pretty powerful, and whose to say needs our help at all. Prolly already thought of that, but just be ready."
(OOC: Just want to apologize for my really slacked posting this past week. Store has gotten extremely busy for christmas season (FINALLY, its really been needing it!), I barely got a chance to sit down last 3 days, let along at a computer. So apologies again, and just a little warning that it may happen some more during the holiday season, but I'll make a better effort to get at least something up each day, if I can.
K'Nara Saturday November 22nd, 2003 6:20:57 PM
The human bladesinger liked the circumstances less and less as the group traveled along. Her hazel eyes widened at the sight of the very tall tree--it put most of the ones in the Culverwood to shame!
Milo d20+21=26 Sunday November 23rd, 2003 3:41:19 AM
Milo heads the direction indicated, moving as silently as he can while moving at full speed. He silently draws his short sword from its sheath as he moves. (OOC: Move Silently check DC 26)
Olana d20+13=16 d20+12=18 d20+12=14 Sunday November 23rd, 2003 10:37:18 PM
"Are you alright?" Olana asks Figment before venturing toward the tree with the others.
The tree makes her wonder how it was grown in such a way, and what magic was involved. Everything seemed to be tainted with magic in one way or another in this place. Culverwood was wild enough - but here...
"If that's where we're going," she says to the others, "let me look it over first."
Expecting an ambush at the very least, she stays on the alert until they reach the tree.
((Spot DC16 , Survival DC18 ))
If they get far, she'll take a good look at and around the gate. (DM's discretion)
((Search DC14 yuck))
K'Nara Monday November 24th, 2003 4:15:00 PM
K'Nara is still really, really impressed with the tree...
DM kent Monday November 24th, 2003 7:54:19 PM
nothing happens as you approach the tree, but then again there is a distinct feeling of dread and quiet around the area.
Olanna does her checking and is sure that the gated entry is not trapped, but she is just as sure by looking, that it is locked and chained shut with a second lock.
Figment gets no further missives from the mysterious person and there seems to be a cold dampening feeling when he reaches out for what was there before.
Lian realizes that the gate is not embedded into the tree but into the stone of the building, that the tree has either engulfed or was grown around.
Olanna and Milo make any checks you need to make at DC20.
Figment, Ingrge and K'nara Knowledge arcana rolls DC20
Bertram Knowledge religion roll DC20
Milo d20+21=33 d20+14=25 d20+16=22 Monday November 24th, 2003 8:48:18 PM
Milo moves silently up to the base of the tree, and begins circling around the trunk, looking for trouble, and sword at the ready. (OOC: Move Silently DC 33, Spot DC 25, and Listen DC 22).
Brother Bertram d20+7=24 Monday November 24th, 2003 9:34:00 PM
Bertram searched his mind, searching for any clues to the place before him.
((OOC Religion 24))
Figment d20+21=40 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 Monday November 24th, 2003 10:16:27 PM
The mage carefully scans the area for signs of magic. He also makes sure and acknowledge Olana's noticing his brief mental encounter. "There's something waiting for us. I think it saw me communicating with the being and intervened. Be ready...". He also casts Bull's Strength on K'Nara (4 Points Strength, 10 hours) and Cat's Grace (4 points Dex, 10 hours) on Orson - who seems intent on fighting up front as well.
Lian Monday November 24th, 2003 11:22:41 PM
Lian moves along with the group.
Orson (Cats Grace, +4 DEX) Tuesday November 25th, 2003 1:27:25 AM
Orson remains passive and silent, moving along quietly as others investigate the tree. Give gives a simple nod of Thanks to Figment as he casts his spells, the warrior wondering what sort of monstrousity could lie within.
(OOC: In 3.5, Cat's Grace, Bull's Strength, etc. all are a constant +4 to Stat (instead of 1d4+1), with a duration of 1 Minute/Level, instead of 1 hour/Level. Which are we using? Or am I wrong there?)
Olana d20+11=20 d20+13=16 d20+11=18 d20+13=28 Tuesday November 25th, 2003 1:28:43 AM
Seeing Milo checking around the far side of the tree, the elf moves in to crack the locks, or at least attempt to.
The chained lock, she stares at for a moment while taking out her picks. If there's a device, she'll try and disable it, and then pick the lock. ((Disable device DC20, Open Lock DC 16 - oh blast it!))
The lock proves tough to crack.
If she can reach the gate lock, she'll attempt that one. ((Disable device DC 18, eeeeeee! Open Lock DC 28))
"There's something...something..." K'Nara said aloud, but that elusive whatever-it-was slipped from her attempts to recall it. "...oh, shoot--I don't remember..."
Lian Tuesday November 25th, 2003 7:24:51 PM
The elf moves quietly along.
DEH Tuesday November 25th, 2003 11:43:37 PM
OOC (Figment): Out for the holidays. I'll post again Monday. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Lian Wednesday November 26th, 2003 4:28:04 PM
The monk pauses to allow everyone to catch up.
Orson Wednesday November 26th, 2003 11:47:40 PM
Orson breaths heavily, he hadn't realized it was such a long trip to the odd tree, maybe some distortation magic was at work...
(OOC: Happy Thanksgiving to everyone in advance!)
Lian Thursday November 27th, 2003 6:25:11 AM
The monk taps his foot, waiting for the others.
[Happy Thanksgiving.]
Olana Thursday November 27th, 2003 1:43:53 PM
Olana cringes, wondering if she's set anything off, tampering with those locks.
(Happy Thanksgiving everyone!)
K'Nara Thursday November 27th, 2003 7:40:02 PM
The human bladesinger continued the journey, cursing herself silently because she STILL couldn't think of what it had been about the place that had poked at the edges of her memory.
Brother Bertram Thursday November 27th, 2003 10:08:39 PM
Bertram waited as patiently as possible for Olana to deal with the damnable lock.
((OOC Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!))
Lian Friday November 28th, 2003 10:21:52 AM
Lian moves along with the others. Seeing them having trouble with the lock, though he has no particular expertise with locks, he'll state his opinions about it which aren't helpful in the least.
K'Nara Monday December 1st, 2003 4:57:03 PM
K'Nara still can't remember what it is that her Arcane Knowledge might possibly be telling her about this place.
Lian Monday December 1st, 2003 6:18:57 PM
The elf steps back from stoney, root covered building and stares up its huge trunk. H simply shakes his head in awe.
Lian Monday December 1st, 2003 6:19:11 PM
The elf steps back from stoney, root covered building and stares up its huge trunk. He simply shakes his head in awe.
DM Kent Monday December 1st, 2003 10:32:29 PM
(OOC thanks for the patience and sorry about the puter trouble)
Bertram gets the distinct feelings of evil and undeath, and also notices that the holy symbol of Marteus is woven into the patern of the iron gate.
Figment sees what appears to be a slight magical aura surrounding the bars of the gate itself.
Milo searches around the tree and locates an are of the tree that doesnt seem "right" for some reason.
Olanna finds there are no devices on either the chained lock or the gate lock, but only the chain lock yields to her nimble picks.
As Lian looks up at the tree above and realizes that there are stairs set into the trunk starting about twenty fee up off of the ground.
(OOC Cat's grace et al. is a +4 and 1 minute/level)
Milo d20+14=20 Monday December 1st, 2003 10:56:25 PM
(OOC: no worries!) Examining the tree much more closely now, "Hey Olana, this looks really strange." (OOC: made a Search check DC 20)
Lian Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 12:23:26 AM
"Folks, there are some stairs just set out of view... see there." He points out the steps.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 4:48:38 AM
Bertram holds up a hand, "Ware people, the stench of undeath marks this place!"
Olana Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 4:44:42 PM
"Ooooh, well I've managed to unlock the chain," says the elf, fingers running through her picks, ready to have another crack at the gate.
She pauses, at Milo's statement. Then her eyes move to where Lian is pointing, followed by a glance toward Bertram.
"Should I leave the gate be, then?"
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 8:32:33 PM
At Olana's question, Bertram raises an eyebrow and nods towards Milo. "I would imagine that Milo is about to make the point mute, Friend Olana."
Lian Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 9:12:54 PM
The monk raises an eyebrow to Bertram. "Oh my dwarven Friend, what ever could you mean?" As he says those words he slowly moves away from Milo, so not to be caught in the impending, inevitable blast zone.
Figment Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 12:30:22 AM
The mage tells the others about the aura. "I think it may just be 'normal' for this place - but the bars have magic on them.".
Lian Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 7:16:24 AM
The monk stares at the stairs suspiciously.
DM Kent Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 7:54:49 AM
Milo finds what seems to be the edge of a possible hidden opening foughly three feet wide by four feet tall. no apparent opening mechanism.
Ingrge joins Lian in looking up at and trying to find egress to the stairs. Nothing apparent leaps out at them.
Olanna stops fiddling with the Gate and looks up at the various other distractions.
Bertram lets loose with his acerbic wit.
K'nara doesn't seem to like anything at all about this curent situation.
Orson, at the back, shushes you all and then also says something dry and witty, very similar to I think we done roused some more natives. as he hears some movement coming from where you just came from.
Orson Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 12:30:32 PM
Orson turns calmly towards the back, sword in hand watching carefully for whatever he had heard coming.
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 7:58:41 PM
Even as locks are opened, Bertram wonders aloud, "Were these locks to keep us out; Or something else in?"
Olana d20+13=28 Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:08:43 PM
"So," muses the elf out loud, "there appear to be a number of ways to go up or in. The gate, the steps up there, or perhaps the area that Milo has found."
Frowning when Figment mentions the bars having a magical taint. "Hmmmm, maybe we'll just have to go up this thing the old fashioned way."
Instead of having another crack at the lock, she attached grappling hook to rope, and throws it up near the steps, hoping to connect.
((Rope Use DC 28))
Milo d20+14=26 Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 9:34:09 PM
Milo carefully searches for any mechanism that might be used to open this strange portal. (OOC: Search check DC 26).
Figment Thursday December 4th, 2003 7:27:45 PM
The mage beckons the others to move aside. He casts passwall on the ground underneath the gate so that the 10'x10' square straddles both sides. "I expect this will do the trick...".
DM Kent Thursday December 4th, 2003 10:15:25 PM
Milo doesn't find any sort of mechanism in his search.
Olanna tosses her hook and rope into the treee and somehow manages to catch the lowest branch 35 feet up.
Orson watches the woods at the parties back and hears the noise coming closer though he has yet to see anything.
Figment suddenly casts his spell on the ground underneath the gate and exposes alot of tree root as well as cuts a swath through them and the rocky dirt opening a spce into the tree/house without using/disturbing the gate.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 4th, 2003 10:18:50 PM
Bertram looks back at the noise then ahead at the hole now leading into the tree. With a grunt, the dwarf grips his axe tightly and moves into the tunnel, keeping an eye out for any movement.
Olana d20+13=23 d20+17=21 d20+13=28 Thursday December 4th, 2003 11:54:56 PM
About to shin up the rope, Olana looks at the new pathway with an expression of astonishment.
"Oooh, I haven't seen that before!" she says with a grin to Figment.
She attempts to spin the rope and dislodge her grappling hook, because it looks as though the newly formed tunnel is the way to go. ((Rope use DC 23)) "Milo, have you seen this?" she yells. "This way!"
And off she goes. ((Listen 21, Spot 28))
Lian Friday December 5th, 2003 1:23:59 AM
The monks eyes widen at Figment's spell. "Whoa."
Milo Friday December 5th, 2003 2:39:07 AM
Momentarily frustrated that his search didn't turn anything up, Milo's attention is drawn back to the newly discovered path, and his frustration fades quickly. Milo moves quickly to this new path, wary of possible danger, and short sword in hand.
Lian Monday December 8th, 2003 5:42:44 PM
Time seems to stand still as they approach the tree.
Brother Bertram Monday December 8th, 2003 7:53:11 PM
Bertram stands in the tunnel made by Figment's magic. He stares intently ahead and listens for anyone or anything moving ahead. He fingers Domi's symbol upon his chest as he searches.
DM Kent Monday December 8th, 2003 8:11:44 PM
Upon further reflection, as Milo makes his way through Figment's tunnel he realizes that perhaps the reason that he didn't find any mechanism on the outside of the tree, is perhaps it is a one way door.
Olana's grappling hook and rope come down so easily, she almost wonders how well it was fixed up into the limbs.
Bertram takes the lead going through the tunnel followed closely by Olanna, Milo and Figment. K'nara, Ingrge and Orson bring up the rear.
As the group gets to the other side of the gate there is a strange transformation inside the tree. The inside of the room seems to be somewhere about the width of the tree's trunk. You are in a central room, similar to an entry foyer. Ahead of you are three doors, and there is one door to your left and right in what appear to be the walls of the tree. Between the doors in front of you are the mouldering remains of what were probably two very hoity toity fancy couches.
As You survey the room a static filled shimmering screen of light appears in front of K'nara. You all recognize the figure immediately as that of Grey, K'nara's one time instructor and Gold Dragon. Even breaking up and all static ridden you can tell there is something very wrong. Grey begins to speak and at the end of his eight words things take on a very different light. As he speaks he reaches both arms out to her.
"K'nara, You are needed here now! Reach forward."
Without even thinking K'nara takes one step forward and reaching into the shimmering curtain is grabbed by Grey and disappears.
Moments later the shimmering curtain dissipates.
Brother Bertram Monday December 8th, 2003 8:21:20 PM
Bertram scratches his head for a moment, rather taken back by this turn of events. "Well and here I was figuring this day could'nt get any worse..." Despite the situation, Bertram chuckles as he once again begins looking for more problems. He is checking overhead as well as ahead.
Milo Monday December 8th, 2003 9:22:09 PM
Milo stands shocked at K'nara's disappearance for only a moment. He then turns at stares directly at Ingrge with a 'Now what?' look on his face. "I guess, I could proceed with checking the doors. Yes?"
Orson Tuesday December 9th, 2003 12:03:53 AM
"Of all times to be needing her," Orson says dryly, glancing back the way they came. "And isn't he a little old for her?" he comments. He continues to glance around alertly, wondering why now the elf needed K'Nara, wasn't this place supposed to be magicall protected, hard to get to? Seemed offly suspicous.
He keeps his thoughts to himself though, awaiting a decision from the others on what to do now, without their leader.
Olana d20+12=21 d20+17=29 d20+13=32 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 1:32:09 AM
Olana stands gawping for a moment. "Oh..." she says eventually "I hope she hasn't gone from the frying pan into the fire," and then joins Milo for some scouting ahead.
"Bertram, watch your step. Can anyone hear that voice?" Search DC 21, Listen DC 29, Spot DC 32
Lian Tuesday December 9th, 2003 3:16:20 AM
Paying more attention to the surroundings, Lian doesn't notice K'Nara leaving. He hears the voice, then turns as she disappears. "K'Nara! Who was that? The voice I mean." Lian slumps a bit.
Ingrge Tuesday December 9th, 2003 9:41:04 AM
"Oh Great!! I wonder what Grey wants with her so urgently." Must be something mightily important for him to take her like that."
As Milo turns to him for orders, Ingrge looks momentarily taken aback. "oh, right. Umm Yes, check out the doors and let's see what our options are. Figment, anything more from our mysterious caller?"
Figment Tuesday December 9th, 2003 9:13:44 PM
The mage frowns at the new development. "No, my friend. Our caller is not giving me anything...". He observes the compas again in hopes of a clue that he he going in the right direction and passes on the infor to whomever takes up point.
Milo d20+14=25 d20+14=28 d20+14=27 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 10:15:56 PM
Milo turns and methodically searches each door for hazards and a means of opening them. (OOC: Made a search check for each door DCs 25, 28, and 27).
Lian Wednesday December 10th, 2003 2:08:28 AM
"Ingerge, what do you need of me?"
DM kent Wednesday December 10th, 2003 6:49:44 AM
Milo and Olanna check out each of the five doors as Figment checks the compass with each door.
Milo finds that center door is locked and doesn't appear to be trapped and the other two doors to the left of that door are neither trapped or locked.
Olanna's two doors to the right of the center door are both locked and trapped.
Figment checking with the compss finds one of Olanna's doors, the one next to the center door makes the compass pulse as does the center door itself.
Ingrge, staff in hand looks around at the others. Well, from Brother Bertram, we know there are undead here, so I would say we need to be prepared to deal with some creature or creatures of that ilk, so be prepared for combat. My first inclination is for figment and myself to ready a spell or two and then for those of you with bows and other missile weapons to let fly then I guess we have at them.
I would love to have more information about what we are about to face, but ... he shrugs.
(ooc, I wil bring Ingrge to a more active leadership role if you all want, but it will be a bit difficult at that point to dm and play him fairly. I might suggest you decide on another leader, but that is up to the group. My first thoughts are the two most consistant posters, either Bertram or Olanna.)
Milo d20+21=37 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 7:47:21 PM
After examining the doors, "Okay... the doors to the left and right are not locked or trapped, and the one here in the center is not trapped as near as I can tell... but locked. I'm a big fan of... Lets see what is so important that it is worth locking a door for." Milo pulls out a couple of slender lock picks and begins working on the lock on the center door. (OOC: open lock DC 37.)
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 10th, 2003 8:41:54 PM
Bertram grins encouragingly at Ingrge then turns and closes his eyes for a moment. Holding the Symbol of Domi in his hand he reaches out with his senses, searching for where the emanations of the undead seems to come from, or if there are feelings from several directions.
Olana d20+11=13 d20+11=18 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 10:35:27 PM
Olana points out the the glowing door to the right of centre. "That's trapped AND glowing. I wonder why its trapped?"
Seeing Milo working on the centre door, she takes a closer look at the trapped door to the right, figuring the compass is a good indicator that the thing should be opened.
She will attempt to disarm the trap but not unlock the door as yet. No sense in opening two doors at once and not knowing whats behind them. ((Disable Device DC 13 awwww crumbs re-rolling on a Hero point DC 18, stand back everybody :( ))
Figment Wednesday December 10th, 2003 11:27:34 PM
After giving everyone the readings of the compass the mage waits for Olana to attempt her disarm. "Both doors show promise. Perhaps we should be prepared to open them both at the same time?". He prepares to cast.
Orson Thursday December 11th, 2003 12:41:50 AM
Orson remains silent as the others work over the doors and supposed traps. He remains vigilant, keeping an eye out for anything amiss. With the certainty of undead, the big warrior concentrations, testing his newly granted powers, spiritually scanning the area for any spirits or souls, incorpreal undead, that might be lurking about in the highly magical vacinity.
[OOC: Sense Spirit (440ft.), since he's got nothing to help with on the doors :P]
DM Kent Thursday December 11th, 2003 7:55:40 AM
Orson and Bertram do their sensing and both et vry clear readings from behind both of th doors in front of the Talons.
As you all watch Milo and Olanna at work, you hear two clicks, One is the normal sounding click of tumblers releasing, as Milo easily conquers his lock. The other click is much more ominus, and is followed by Olanna's warning and a fast loud hiss, as some sort of misty gas shoots out from the floor, cieling, and door. The gas quickly fills the area around the door causing evryone to cough and wipe their eyes.
Everyone make a Fortitude save at DC18)
Lian AC 30 d20+13=23 Thursday December 11th, 2003 8:22:22 AM
(Fort saved, 23)
The monk gasps, then exhales quickly in response to the filth coming from the stone door.
He takes up a defensive stance. (total defensive standard action, +6 dodge to AC)
Brother Bertram d20+11=25 Thursday December 11th, 2003 3:56:18 PM
Choking, Bertram moves forward quickly, going through the unlocked door ahead, hoping for better air on the other side. He still grips his Symbol of Domi tightly.
(Fort save 25)
Figment d20+5=21 Thursday December 11th, 2003 7:10:59 PM
The mage fights off the gas and moves frward with Bertram. He casts Improved Invisibility on himself and disappears.
Milo d20+10=27 Thursday December 11th, 2003 11:40:21 PM
Holding his breath, Milo backpedals quickly out of the area covered by the gas, attempting to pull Olana along with him all the while. (OOC: Made Fort save DC 27)
Olana d20+5=9 Friday December 12th, 2003 12:35:01 AM
"Oh - " coughs the elf, getting hit by the cloud. She feels a pull on her arm and moves that way, closing her eyes. (Failed Save)
Orson d20+8=17 Friday December 12th, 2003 3:03:15 AM
(Fort Save 17, Failed)
Orson had begun to close his eyes, concentrating on the divine energies resently granted upon him, preparing to cast. He takes a full breath of the fumes before he realizes what happened, the big warrior choking on the gases.
DM Kent Friday December 12th, 2003 7:57:33 AM
While most of the Talons are able to avoid breathing in the gas cloud, Orson and Olanna are not so lucky anf feel the gas burn in their lungs (6 points of damage and lose one point of constitution)
Bert, Figment, and Lian step through the doors in to a large room. It is very obviously a temple of some sort and at the far end of the roon they can see what appears to be a stone table with what looks to be a body strapped to it. The room is very dark but is lightly lit with a dull red glow that permeates everything.
Bert can almost physically feel the undead evilness in the room. It presses down upon him as if some one were trying to smother him.
Figment (Improved Invis) Friday December 12th, 2003 8:03:39 PM
"Be sharp folks...". The mage immediately casts fly and tae to the air, hopefully avoiding any undesireables as he flies towards the altar for a closer look.
Olana (-1 Con) Saturday December 13th, 2003 12:29:00 AM
Olana starts to wheez, gripping tightly on Milo's arm. "Oooh... that wasn't nice," she croaks.
Presuming they're following the others. "Who's that on the table?"
Lian Saturday December 13th, 2003 11:22:43 AM
Moving with the others, Lian looks at Olana with concern. "K'Nara picked a wonderful time for a training session." He looks to Bertram for some guidance, walking carefully over(watching his step) to his dwarven friend, he asks. "What might you suggest, friend?"
(OOC:All the while, Lian is on the defensive, AC 30)
Brother Bertram Saturday December 13th, 2003 1:48:40 PM
Bertram turns to the others long enough to shout; "Ware the Undead!" He immediately calls upon Domi, holding the Symbol high. His other hand never releases its grip on the axe.
(OOC Casts Daylight, if no reaction from other quarters he will follow this with Divine Power)
DM Kent Monday December 15th, 2003 8:04:33 PM
Ingrge Looks around and in his sometimes smug seeming oversimplifying way says. "I bet that person on the alter is who we're here for, Any bets?"
As Figment does a flyover, he notices what appears to be a fairly attractive mature, female grey elf dresses in robes. There are numerous small cuts on her arms and legs and perhaps several on her torso as well but those cant be seen.
Bertram casts his light spell and from the two sides of the room come stereo replies in quadrophonic sound.
"Oh how polite, lighting the room so we can see who has come for dinner."
The voices sound very stacattoish and chattery.
The voices are followed very closely behind by four 10 foot tall flaming skeletons. None seem to carrying visible weapons.
Also though not clear what it is, all the talons seem to be standing on some sort of diagramed tile work inlaid into the temple floor.
Milo Monday December 15th, 2003 10:08:23 PM
Milo perks up, "Dinner?! Sounds good... what is for dinner?" He looks around hopefully, though expecting a reply to the effect that he is to be an appetizer.
Olana d20+12=18 d20+13=21 Monday December 15th, 2003 10:57:21 PM
Olana gives Ingrge a scowl her far off cousin would have been proud of, although how her cousin managed to scowl like that and not get a headache was a constant wonder to Olana.
An instant, and its gone. Clearing her ragged throat, she examines the floor of the room, to see if there is anything significant in the design. ((Search DC18, Spot DC21)) "Watch where you put your fee - oh....." she says as the skeletons arrive.
She draws her longsword.
Figment (Improved Invis, Fly) d100=13 Monday December 15th, 2003 11:16:08 PM
Seeing that his magic seems to be working fine he swoops down to the woman and whispers "Be still and I'll get you out of here...". The mage casts Teleport and instantly places them outside the room on the other side of the gas cloud. If successful he yells back into the room "Retreat now! I have her out!". Being an elf - and presumably light - he prepares to carry her as he flies out - hopefully... (OOC: Bonds attaching her to the table - none of which were listed - should not come with her).
Lian Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:10:36 AM
The monk hears Figment and makes for the door is a flash jumping Milo if need be.
Orson (-6 HP; -1 CON; Divine Favor) Tuesday December 16th, 2003 6:21:21 PM
Orson hacks up the rest of the gas, coughing a bit longer than Olana had. His eyes stare coldly at the entrapped woman, and the spirits and undead as there become visible.
The big warrior grips the symbol of Gargul around his neck, which glows with a dull light as he channels divine energies from the lord of the dead.
"Gargul guide my blade to his will, and give release to those who remain behind." Releasing his holy symbol, he looks sternly towards the direction the voices came, "and may he light the way for those souls worthy of final rest, and damn those who aren't."
He grips his bastardsword with both hands, closing his eyes momentarily to adjust his vision to sight into the shadow realm.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 16th, 2003 8:21:13 PM
Bertram hears Orson's voice and nods agreement. To the others the grizzled dwarf roars, "Flee this place and take the elf with you! Orson and I will slow thier pursuit! Move People!" Bertram murmurs words of power as Domi grants his wish. He moves towards the door, backing as he goes, allowing the others time to escape.
(Casts Divine Power)
Lian Tuesday December 16th, 2003 11:23:30 PM
Lian continues to move.
DM kent 4d6(4+5+6+3)+6=24 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 8:07:56 AM
Figment casts his teleport spell and is suprised when absolutely nothing happens.
The elven lady is easily undone though and Figment can easily pick her up in his arms with little difficulty.
As he picks her up she whispers softly. Please, get my things inf possible. Only then can I truly aid you. she then buries her face into figment's chest and starts to weep.
Bert and Orson cast their spells and say their pieces and in response, the two front skeletons laugh and send 2 balls of fire rolling slowly toward the pair, while the rear skeltons send two fireballs streaking toward the rear door. Olanna, Milo, Lian and Ingrge are caught in the flames ( each take 24 points or reflex save DC 20 for half damage) and the door is no nigh impassable.
Orson (AC 17; 52/58 Temp; -1 CON; Dvine Favior; Charge +2 Hit, -2AC; Power attack +2 Dmg, -2 Hit) d20+7=24 d20+7=20 d20+14=31 d10+11=20 2d6(4+4)=8 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 10:13:15 AM
Orson quickly bounds towards one of the front skeletons (S2), the agile warrior avoid the blasts of both in his charge. He brings his sword down in a powerful swing upon reaching the skeleton, his blade crackling with a pale black aura, its undead bane energies flaring.
(OOC: Reflex saves: 24 and 20, for no damage with Evasion. Wasn't sure if 1 or 2, so made 2 saves.
Attack hits AC 31 for 20 Dmg (+3 weapon against undead), 8 extra dmg from the bane ability
Figment (Improved Invis, Fly) Wednesday December 17th, 2003 12:37:54 PM
The mage quickly looks around for her "things" and asks her where they are. He looks around the altar and under it too. He quickly goes to them and grabs them up and prepares egress. (OOC: wimpy...)
Brother Bertram d20+15=35 d20+15=26 d20+15=22 d10+9=14 2d6(1+6)=7 d10+9=11 2d6(5+4)=9 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 7:12:27 PM
With a roar, Bertram attacks the skeleton to his left(S1) His first attack was a crushing blow. This was followed immediately by another powerful strike. Bertram looks to see if the blows appeared to damage the horrific creature.
Lian d20+13=33 d20+13=29 d20+14=30 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 7:40:20 PM
The monk finds himself stuck, at the impassible gate and turns in time to watch several balls or fire launched in his direction. The elf tumbles and back-peddles just enough to avoid both balls entirely. His eyes narrow and the monk moves into a flank with Bertram then attempts to Trip that skeleton (Improved Trip, +4 Str on the attempt). (One unarmed attack, Hits AC 30, to trip the large undead)
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