Solemn, The Journey Home (DM Matt) Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 4:55:21 AM
Taking a last glimpse back into the vast Culverwood, you begin your trek back across the land. Cassandra holds her plants close to her tightly as if very uncomfortable, looking down as she walks.
Each of you walk, reflecting in your own way about Thram...and about trust. The sun adds a little comfort as it peeks through the clouds. You come upon a nice big shade tree, its wide, bulging trunk reminding you of your portly acquaintance, the Greenmage. Around its gearth fly odd insects with five wings in a wheel-shape that seem to spin and rotate as they fly. Jenny brays at them and begins to lick the soft moss on the tree.
The hue-splottled tower looms a safe distance away.
Lorth Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 10:37:07 AM
Lorth looks at the insects, "Those are different. Come, now Jenny. You don't want to rile them up." Lorth continues on as the mule is ready.
Cadmar Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 11:10:45 AM
The ranger stops to take a swig of water and wipe sweat from his forehead.
"Garrard, I agree it might be a good idea to check what the Green Coven is up to. So far, as I understand, they haven't been caught doing anything obviously wrong. So far."
"Once we are in Witchspawn, it might be a nice idea to find that wretch Pehter. I would really like to have a word with him."
"All right. I say the sooner we put the tower behind us the better."
Garrard d20+5=6 d20+5=13 Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 1:17:59 PM
Garrard nods to Cadmar, agreeing with him.
He then moves to help calm Jenny and keep her away from the insects.
(Animal Handling: 6, Animal Empathy: 13)
Elerinn Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 5:37:51 PM
Elerinn, Thram's death and burial still very fresh and vivid on his mind, doesn't spot the strange looking insects at all and continues to walk in the direction of the tower.
He is quite glad that the group just left Culverwood, for far too many bad things had happened there.
Wynn Brightsong (HP 6 of 14) d20+4=24 Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 5:46:04 PM
Wynn follows along with the group and at an opportune moment approaches Kedarn. "Could you cast 'Heal' on me ? (Lle ista tanka harwar no amin? " the half-elf asks of his elvish companion. His wounds have continued to weep staining his shirt in small discrete patches of red where the owlbrear claws penetrated his armour.
As the group approaches the large tree and Wynn spots the circling insects he grows concerned. He searches for a memory of similar insects and their behaviour from his travels or the stories he has heard from other bards. [Bardic Knowledge =24].
"Garrard, what do you know of the insects?" he calls out.
Kedarn d8+5=11 Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 10:06:38 PM
Kedarn continues walking along with the others leading Jenny the mule. When Wynn comes over and asks about healing Kedarn looks at Wynn with an apologetic look and says "sorry for not healing you earlier. Just one moment." Kedarn will then use the wand of CLW on Wynn (heals 11)
Andrath Wednesday July 2nd, 2003 11:57:34 PM
Andrath waits to see what the more woods-knowledgeable party members have to say about the tree and the strange insects.
Cadmar Sunday July 6th, 2003 6:33:43 PM
The ranger starts to whistle a little tune. "The backs are bent with heavy load - Can't find a shadow, can't find breeze - 'Head of us road, behind us road - Will new adventures never cease?..."
Stubborn as a Mule [DM Matt] Tuesday July 8th, 2003 6:30:56 AM
With little help from Garrard (in fact he kind of agitates the mule a little), Jenny quickly ignores the insects and continues to lick the most on the tree until she is beckoned to continue moving.
Wynn has seen these insects before. What are they called? Wellerwhips? Yeah, That sounds right. This is the closest he's come to them. Tales say they glow different colors in darkness.
"That's very pretty," comments Cassandra on Cadmar's tune.
That sun is actually bearing down fairly hard today. The haze is quite thick as you continue on. Hmmm...it's REALLY thick. No! It's mist now! There's a definite mist forming around you! The tower quickly leaves your view as does everything else. Jenny's braying gets louder as whoever has her feels a rapid tug. [Handle Animal Check DC 10 for whoever's got hold of her]
Around you, a low baritone choir spontaneously erupts. As if a male chorus of monks wandered by and began chanting. The tune is somber and very persuasive. [Will Save against the chant Everybody! DC 14, Failure means confused]
Lorth d20+4=11 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 7:18:51 AM
(WILL SAVE: 11 Failed)
Lorth hears the noise and can't quite make out where it is coming from. He looks this way and that, and his brain becomes muddled. Where were we headed anyway? What direction where we going?
Kedarn d20+1=16 d20+6=23 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 7:23:36 AM
Kedarn tightens his grip on the lead rope for Jenny (Handle Animal check: 16.) Kedarn calls to the others "Be alert and lets move!!" in reaction to the chanting (Will Save: 23.)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14; Countersong) d20+4=16 d20+7=19 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 8:13:48 AM
As soon as the mist begins to envelope the party, the hair on the back of Wynn's neck rises. The chanting sound that seems to be confusing Lorth has no effect on the half-elf[Will Save = 16]. Wynn immediately begins to belt out the first song that comes to mind in hope that his voice will in some way counter whatever effect the sombre chant is having on his companions. It is a light and airy tune.
I chase your every footstep And I follow every whim. When you call the tune I'm ready to strike up the battle hymn. My lady of the meadow ~ My comber of the beach ~ You've thrown the stick for your dog's trick but it's floating out of reach. The long road is a rainbow and the pot of gold lies there. So slip the chain and I'm off again ~ You'll find me everywhere, I'm a Rover.
[OOC Perform check=19; countersong allows all party members or other affected creatures within 30' to use in place of a lower will save]
Cadmar AC17 HP20 d20+3=22 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 12:08:35 PM
The ranger manages to shake off the effects of the song [Will save 22]. Taken by surprise and not yet fully aware of what is going on, but realizing that some harmful magic has just passed over him, he does the first thing that comes to his mind - draws his scimitar and readies his shield [2 move actions].
[How far can we see into the mist? Can we spot anyone around us? Do the voices sound human?]
Garrard, AC: 17, Hp: 12 d20+6=21 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 1:08:15 PM
Garrard shrugs off the tones, and smiles as he hears Wynn's voice cut through the drone. Following Cadmar's lead, Garrard readies his shield, and draws his scimitar with a quiet rasp.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+2=5 Tuesday July 8th, 2003 10:54:33 PM
Andrath notices the fog forming around the party, and calls out, "Kedarn, is this fog from you? If not, is it the same as your spell?" As the singing starts to jumble his mind [OOC: missed Will save with a 5], the way the fog is affecting his vision, Wynn's song cuts through the fog forming in his mind, and dispells the confusion. "Well done, bard," he calls out.
"Now, lets back, slowly, out of this fog, in the direction that we came. If you see anyone near you who seems to be wandering, lost, grab them and bring them with you. Focus on Wynn's song, and keep with the bard. Nobody run away!" He looks around nearby, and if he sees any other party members in a confused state, he will try to grab them and gently lead them back out of the fog.
Sing It Again, Sam [DM Matt] Wednesday July 9th, 2003 7:10:10 AM
As Andrath and Lorth listen to the music, mouths beecome listless as they succomb to the confusing feeel of the tune and before their eyes as the mists start to part and dissipate almost as quickly as it came they see....well....Dwarves! Bouncing tumbling dwarves, each in an outfit of black and rose, some stripe, some check, some half and half, all different. They bounce here and bobble there around and in and through the party and---You ALL hear Wynn's wonderful song and it cuts through all that crap! Andrath and Lorth snap back to it , but the dwarves keep bouncing and smiling. Their beards are as varied as their garb, either rose or black or white or gray, some have one, and some have all and some have in between. No matter...they just keep bouncing and tumbling around you in beautiful six part harmony. "Ooooooooh Weee weeeeeeee weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ohhhhhhh ohhhhhhhhhh OHHHHHHH ohhhhhhhhhh......"
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14; Countersong) d20+7=26 Wednesday July 9th, 2003 8:18:22 AM
Wynn watches in amazement as the troupe of dwarves comes tumbling through the mist. As much as they might look like fellow performers, he somehow doubts the purpose of their performance. His hand reaches unconciously for the hilt of his longsword.
Wynn slowly backs through the mist with Andrath and the others and continues to sing out in a clear load voice.
As the robin craves the summer to hide his smock of red, I need the pillow of your hair in which to hide my head. I'm simple in my sadness; resourceful in remorse. Then I'm down straining at the lead~ holding on a windward course.
Strip me from the bundle of balloons at every fair; colourful and carefree ~ Designed to make you stare. But I'm lost and I'm losing the thread that holds me down And I'm up hot and rising in the lights of every town.
Lorth Wednesday July 9th, 2003 9:58:52 AM
Lorth's surroundings snap back into focus. He then immediately concentrates on the dwarves, putting his hand to his temple, he stares intently at them. (OOC: Detect evil)
Cadmar Wednesday July 9th, 2003 11:35:41 AM
As soon as the mists dissipate, the ranger drops his jaw in amazement and lowers his weapon. For a moment he just stands there in stunned silence. Then his eyelid starts to twitch.
Noticing that Lorth is busy scanning the strange troupe, Cadmar pulls together with the rest of the party and patiently waits for the results.
Garrard Wednesday July 9th, 2003 12:27:11 PM
Garrard steps to Elerinn and Cassandra, standing before them with weapon lowered, but hoping to ward them should the encounter turn violent. He hopes the hawk perching on his shoulder remains calm.
"Good day. We are travellers just leaving this area. May I ask who you are?"
Andrath (AC17 16 hp) Wednesday July 9th, 2003 11:26:31 PM
Andrath smiles at the dwarven antics but keeps a close eye on them, and his hand on his sword hilt. He looks for any obvious weapons on the dwarven clowns.
Kedarn Thursday July 10th, 2003 4:02:17 AM
Kedarn continues to hold on to the lead rope for Jenny the mule while placing his other hand on the hilt of his longsword.
Roly Poly Dwarfheads [DM Matt] d20+2=16 d20+2=17 d20+2=7 d20+2=13 d20+2=5 d20+2=16 d20+2=21 d20+9=28 d20+9=23 d20+2=12 d20+2=17 d20+2=4 d20+2=19 d20+3=17 d20+3=20 Thursday July 10th, 2003 7:39:33 AM
The Dwarves bounces each continue throughout the party as one of them bounces right in front of Garrard and looks him over. The chanting continues. "ooooohmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm," chants Garrard's dwarf, "Oooooooohmsy daisy!"
The dwarf with the rose beard and rose and black diamond top and black pants claps and with amazing speed grabs for Garrard's leg and yanks. Simultaneously Many of the other dwarves do the same thing to each and everyone of you. One even tumbles and bounces over Garrard to get to Elerinn.
Three of them connect: on Lorth(12), Elerinn(17), and Andrath(4). Each of you three need to make a strength check to remain standing or be tripped. The number you have to beat is in parentheses.
Another dwarf tumbles into view over the group and gives Jenny a swift whack in the rear. The mule brays loudly and begins to buck, then tears off running. (2 strength checks for Kedern. One to hold onto the reins while bucking (17) and the other to hold on while she bolts. (20))
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14; Countersong) d20+7=15 d20+3=23 d20+3=15 d3+2=4 Thursday July 10th, 2003 10:20:37 AM
Wynn continues singing, starting the song over again from the beginning.
[OOC Countersong check = 15, can the song also inspire couragein the party members?]
I chase your every footstep And I follow every whim. When you call the tune I'm ready to strike up the battle hymn. My lady of the meadow ~ My comber of the beach ~ You've thrown the stick for your dog's trick but it's floating out of reach. The long road is a rainbow and the pot of gold lies there. So slip the chain and I'm off again ~ You'll find me everywhere, I'm a Rover.
When the tactics of the dwarves suddenly change Wynn moves to assist Elerinn, [OOC attempts to flank Elerinn's assailant without incurring an attack of opportunity] and delivers a swift and decisive kick to the midsection of the dwarf.
[OOC Hit AC 23/25 if flanking, possible critical 15/17 for second roll, for 4 HP subdual, 8 HP if flanking; I presume the dwarf is unarmed at the moment because he is grabbing Elerinn's legs, Note if courageously inspired damage and attack rolls get an additional bonus of +1]
Wynn dodges any retaliatory act from the same dwarf [+1 to AC=19]
Cadmar AC17 HP20 d20+1=21 d20+1=20 2d6(3+3)=6 Thursday July 10th, 2003 11:51:36 AM
"So its highway robbery now?!" The ranger takes two swift steps to flank the nearest dwarf [5ft step] and tries to knock him out with the handle of his scimitar. He lands a solid blow [subdual damage; -4 to hit, flanking +2, critical hit AC20, damage subdual 6, possibly 8 if inspired].
Elerinn AC: 12, Hp: 14 (Ian) d20-2=2 d20+3=8 Thursday July 10th, 2003 12:37:39 PM
Elerinn is tossed to the ground easily by the dwarf's antics. Once he hits the ground, he rolls away from the dwarf, trying to get past Cadmar before standing up.
(Tumble check: 8)
Garrard, AC: 21, Hp: 12 Thursday July 10th, 2003 12:42:29 PM
Garrard narrows his eyes, and levels his scimitar at the rose and black clad dwarf before him.
"We are willing to be peaceable, but continue this, and we will only be able to assume you mean us harm or thievery. Stand down, and explain yourself."
With this the hawk cries, and splays its wings, fighting for balance on Garrard's shoulder.
(Enters total defense)
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26) d20+2=18 Thursday July 10th, 2003 12:48:01 PM
(OOC: DM MATT, can I get the results of my Detect evil? It matters to me :) Thanks)
(Strength check 18 Success)
Lorth pushes the dwarf away that tries to trip him. He then quickly readies his shield and warhammer. Scanning the fight, he looks to see if any of his friends are in trouble and heads that way, swinging at any dwarf that gets in the way.
DM Matt Thursday July 10th, 2003 1:02:01 PM
No evil is detected.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+3=6 d20=11 d8+3=11 Thursday July 10th, 2003 10:39:26 PM
Andrath struggles to stay on his feet, as the dwarf tries to throw him. He just manages to remain standing. [OOC: Strength check of 6, beat the 4 needed]
Andrath pulls his longsword, and looks down at the dwarf that tried to trip him, saying, "Back off at least 10', stubby one, or I will have to cut you with my sword." If the dwarf does not immediately back off, he will swing with the flat of his blade [OOC: Hit AC 11, for 11 hp subdual damage.]
Kedarn d20=17 d20=19 d20+3=11 Friday July 11th, 2003 5:52:20 AM
Kedarn hangs on to the lead rope as best he can , letting go as Jenny the mule bolts. (str checks 17 & 19) Kedarn turns towards the dwarf that hit them mule asking "Why did you do that? Why are you attacking us." (diplomacy 11)
Bouncey Trouncey Flouncey Pouncey [DM Matt] d20+9=25 d20+2=7 d20+2=8 d20+2=22 d20+2=20 d20+2=14 d20+2=16 d20+9=17 d20+9=11 d20+2=8 d20+2=20 d20+2=19 Friday July 11th, 2003 6:38:39 AM
The Black bearded rose and black striped dwarf bounces exactly 10 feet a one quarter inch away from Andrath.
Elerinn lands on his face in the dirt and rolls quickly away as the dwarf with the long rose-and-black-streaked beard pursues Elerinn. And is intercepted by Lorth who has charged in seeing Elerinn in a slight pickle. [Lorth make your attack]
The dwarf with the black hat and white beard stares at Kedern perplexed at his question and scratches his chin. Then tries to trip him again...but misses badly.
Cadmar meanwhile steps to the side of his own to flank and thwacks the dwarf with the rose dotted breeches. It jumps and tumbles away from him.
Wynn continues his Countersong and kicks the dwarf in the gut which exudes a big *OOF* and interrupts his chanting.
As Jenny bolts several other dwarves immediately run after her and easily catch up. Each on one side of it while they all run, two of them both grab for a leg and twist. Its foreleg goes out and Jenny tumbles to the ground head over heels braying in fear. A third dwarf starts bouncing and lands on Jenny's belly. They are 30 feet away from the group.
Cassandra yelps as a dwarf from behind pushes her over the back of another that was behind her legs. She goes plop to the ground dropping her plants. She crawls toward Lorth and Edirinn aas the dwarfs that tripped her start to crawl after her.
Wynn's and Garrard's dwarf both tumble through the group. Garrard's fails and can get beaten on by Garrard if he wishes. Wynn's tumbles to Ederinn and tries to trip him again as it looks so much ufn the first time. He misses.
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26) d20+5=13 Friday July 11th, 2003 7:59:07 AM
Lorth sees Jenny go down, an anger wells up inside him. That is just uncalled for he thinks, as he moves towards Cassandra and swings at the dwarf crawling after her.
(HIT AC 13, don't know if I get plusses to hit since the dwarf is crawling, if I hit, I hit for 1d8+2 real damage.)
Cadmar AC17 HP20 d20+5=21 d6=1 Friday July 11th, 2003 11:44:48 AM
Seeing the witch tripped and crawling in the dust, the ranger screams in anger at the dwarfs. "What are you cursed or something? Stop that or we hit you for real!" In three quick strides he covers the distance to Cassandra [move action], standing right next to her and flanking the dwarf Lorth attacked [unless this dwarf is taken out by Lorth; in that case he will flank the second prone dwarf]. He swings his scimitar, hitting once again with its handle, but his timing is wrong and the blow merely glances off the dwarf [subdual damage -4, target prone +4, flank +2, hits AC 21 for 1 subdual damage].
Garrard, AC: 17, Hp: 12 d20-1=17 d20-1=15 d6+2=7 d6+2=5 d20-1=10 d6+2=7 Friday July 11th, 2003 1:18:41 PM
"Perhaps they are encharmed!"
With that Garrard takes the opportunity presented to attack to subdue, and follows up with a second subdual attack, both on the dwarf before him.
(Counting the -4 to hit for subdual, AC: 17, possible crit if AC: 15 hits, if not crit, 7pts, if crit, 12pts, second blow AC:10, if that connects, 7 pts.)
Elerinn AC: 12, Hp: 14 (Ian) Friday July 11th, 2003 2:12:22 PM
Elerinn rolls to his feet, and stays behind Lorth. He holds his action, however, waiting to see how the remainder of the group responds, or if the dwarves back down.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14; Countersong) d20+7=17 d20+3=7 d3+2=4 Friday July 11th, 2003 5:27:28 PM
Wynn continues singing in as load and clear a voice as he can. The dwarves response to being struck and their continued aggression towards the party members seems strange to the bard. "Where could such a strange troupe of dwarves come from? and why are they acting so strangely?" thinks the half-elf.
Wynn pursues the dwarf that continues to pursue Elerinn and attempts to get into a flanking position. Forming a club with both hands he strikes down on the dwarf from behind. (Hit AC 7, AC 9 if flanking for 4 hp subdual). Wynn will dodge any retaliatory action from the same dwarf (+1 to AC).
Andrath d20+2=13 Friday July 11th, 2003 9:52:56 PM
Andrath continues to point his sword at the dwarf, and wonders, "What is going on here? Are these dwarves for real?" He tries to see right through what is going on. [OOC: Will save of 13 to see through an illusion.]
Kedarn d20+1=20 Monday July 14th, 2003 12:49:21 AM
Kedarn seeing Jenny go down he moves over to her then attempts to knock the dwarf jumping on Jenny off of her.
Getting Punchy [DM Matt] d20+2=20 d20=17 d20+9=21 d20+9=28 d20+9=17 d20+9=15 d20+2=21 d20+2=5 d20+2=19 d6=6 d6=4 d20+2=17 d20+2=19 d20+9=18 Monday July 14th, 2003 4:19:24 PM
As the dwarf tries to get away from him, Garrard comes down hard on its head with the blunt of his weapon, so hard that all around can hear the impact. The dwarf falls over with a huge purple welt on its head.
Wynn swings wide and connects with the ground while Elerinn hangs out behind Lorth assessing the situation. Lorth, with fire in his eye, swings with full force with the normal part of his weapon, which everyone whose looking can clearly see. He also goes wide. Cadmar proudly bounces his hilt off of a dwarf's shoulder.
Andrath, however, looks at the dwarves and declares they are not real. However, they don't go away and the fact that several members are connecting with them seems to drive in the fact that they ARE real.
As a dwarf bounces on Jenny, Kedern runs at full tilt to ram the dwarf off of the poor mule and hits it square with his shoulder. But it does not budge. The dwarf looks down smiling and tickles Kedern's nose with its white beard, then plants a silly kiss there too.
The other two give the mule another whack and it bolts upright and sprints. The dwarves and mule take off at a full gallop, the terrified mule trying to get away and the dwarves, now with firm grasp of the lead rope leading the way. They move 120 feet to the north in somewhat of an arc.
Seeing Lorth go for blood, three of the dwarves immediately bounce to him and all try to sock him one. Two of them succeed, one boxes his right ear and the other in the belly. "Awwwwwwwwwooooooooooooooooooga!" they chant. These hits do a total of 10 points of subdual damage.
Another sees Andrath staring at him intensely and bounces over to stare back. After staring quite intensely, he kicks Andrath's legs out from under him. [Andrath, beat a strength check DC 19 or be tripped.]
Garrard, AC: 17. Hp: 12 Monday July 14th, 2003 4:37:55 PM
Garrard narrows his eyes, clearly not amused, and states flatly, "I think not." With this he switches his speech to Sylvan, chanting, "Sweet Mother, bright of moonlit bough, bring these thieves to the ground."
(Casts entangle centered on the mule, hoping to at least slow, if not stop the thieves. Reflex save DC: 14)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14; Countersong) d20+7=20 d20+5=16 d3+2=3 Monday July 14th, 2003 8:20:32 PM
Wynn continues his song as loudly and clearly as possible [countersong=20]. The bard moves swiftly to the aid of Lorth who seems to have raised a particular ire with the dwarves. Clenching both hands in a combined fist, Wynn swings down from behind one of the dwarves attacking Lorth [Hit AC16 for 3 dmg] and quickly dodges any returned attack from that same dwarf [effective AC=19].
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+3=19 Monday July 14th, 2003 11:09:58 PM
Andrath just manages to stay on his feet as the dwarf attempts to trip him [OOC: Rolled a 19 strength check, which I think is enough. If not, Andrath will stand up before he continues his actions.] He looks down at the dwarf, and shouts, "Enough! What do you want? Will you be happy once we are all sitting on the ground? Why are you acting this way? Are you all malicious, stupid, or both?"
He calls out to the others, "It looks like we have two choices: either attack these ridiculous dwarves, and I mean attack them a la Lorth, or ignore them and try to continue on our way. If they manage to trip one of us, just get up and keep moving, and ignore them as best as possible. Maybe they will get bored of this silly game, and go find some other travellers to bother."
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26) d20+5=13 d20+5=18 d8+2=4 Tuesday July 15th, 2003 7:56:58 AM
Lorth backs up a bit from the power of the punches. "Seemed to stir your ire, since I'm not pulling my punches like my friends. Well you attacked us, I see no difference between you pummeling us to death or if you attacked us with a weapon. I will defend myself and my party till my last breath.", Lorth says, [OOC: Lorth tries Diplomacy=13] "You can stop this foolishness now, or Gargul will be sorting some of you out by the end of the day." [OOC: If the dwarves don't immediately stop, Lorth attacks, Hit AC=18, Damage=4] He then swings at the dwarf that hit him in the ear.
Cadmar AC17 HP20 d20-1=19 d20-1=1 d6=6 Tuesday July 15th, 2003 11:44:30 AM
Cadmar helps Cassandra up [move action] and makes a move as if he was about to dust her, but changes his mind at the last moment.
Seeing one of the dwarves knocked out he shouts: "Good work, Garrard! At least we will have one to question!"
The ranger takes a step towards a nearby dwarf that seems to be most beaten up [5ft step] and swings his weapon, trying to knock him out. This time he manages to land a solid blow [hits AC19, threat but no crit, damage 6 subdual].
Hogtied! [DM Matt] Tuesday July 15th, 2003 4:36:38 PM
Garrard calls out to sweet Mother Earth and is heard! Weeds and shrubberies intertwine and loop around the mulenappers and catch them. (Mule included).
Lorth diplomizes and finishes his eloqution by slicing into the side of the ear-dwarf. Andrath's knees buckle but he manages to stay upright. Wynn continues singing and finishes the downbeat of the song with a clunk on a dwarf's head. Cadmar fells another dwarf and tries to help Cassandra up but when he gets there he realizes she's already up. Really up! She's flying! She's never done THAT before. Then he sees why! She is being carried in the arms of a flying dwarf!
The dwarf takes off straight up with the witch in his arms. "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Get me dooooooooooown!" she cries. The dwarves take off running straight for the tower at top speed, including one of them that emerges from the entangle.
[You may each take an attack of opportunity on a running dwarf in whatever fashion you wish.]
Garrard, AC: 17, Hp: 12 d20+3=16 d6+2=4 Tuesday July 15th, 2003 5:04:37 PM
Apparently getting angry, Garrard lashes out at the dwarf fleeing from Lorth with the blade of his scimitar.
(AC: 16, 4 damage).
As the dwarves break clear of range, Garrard points upward at the flying dwarf, and commands his hawk in Sylvan, "Attack!"
He follows the command with a quick prayer, also in Sylvan, casting Faerie Fire upon the flying dwarf, hoping to illuminate the kidnapper against the sky.
Elerinn Tuesday July 15th, 2003 5:40:49 PM
Elerinn, who has waited for some moments to see what the dwarves intention are, believes that the dwarves do not act consciously right now, their behaviour is too strange.
But when he sees Cassandra being dragged away by one of them, he decides to fire a spell at the fleeing creature. Just in time, however, he realizes wounding the dwarf won't help, for wounding him could result in Cassandra falling down.
Elerinn looks at the others, to see if they follow the dwarves. He will follow if one of them does, but he is still too uncertain because of his recent mistakes to do it alone.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) Tuesday July 15th, 2003 7:55:49 PM
Wynn moves towards Cassandra to pick up the plants when her body begins to rise from the ground, a dwarf beneath her. Wynn reaches into his belt pouch, withdraws a small flask and drinks down its contents in a single large gulp. Immediately the bard is airborne and after a brief moment of uncertainty in the air he regains his composure and flies after the dwarf and Cassandra. [OOC: Potion of Fly from the L&B, I presume I can catch the dwarf because of the load he is carrying].
"Don't forget the plants!" he yells down to Elerinnn.
Wynn races to catch the dwarf. If he does so he will attempt to wrest Cassandra from him, or force the dwarf to ground.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) Tuesday July 15th, 2003 11:37:32 PM
Andrath watches as the dwarves turn to run, then notices Cassandra and Wynn flying towards the tower. He calls out, "Cassandra, Wynn, hold on, I'm coming!" Then he turns and looks pointedly at the rest of the party and says, "Well, I am chasing after them. I expect they may be in some danger. Follow me, or not, as you see fit."
He turns and chases after the dwarves, trying to keep the fliers in sight. If he catches up to the dwarves (which he should, given that he can run more quickly), Andrath will pass them by, and head for the tower. He will be careful to avoid the entangle area, if it is a direct path to the tower.
Kedarn Wednesday July 16th, 2003 2:37:49 AM
Kedarn sees Cassandra being carried off by the dwarf calls out "Hold on we will get you. Right behind you Andrath." Kedarn then takes off at top speed following Andrath and avoids the entangle area.
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) d20+5=6 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 7:30:49 AM
Lorth attempts to attack the fleeing dwarf and misses horribly. He turns and sees Kendarn following after Cassandra and then takes up the chase himself. He tries to avoid the entangle if at all possible.
Cadmar AC17 HP20 d20+3=4 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 11:36:20 AM
The ranger swings at the fleeing dwarf, but the sight of the witch being abducted is too much for him. The attack goes wide [AOP: natural 1].
"Yaaargh!" Without thinking, white hot with fury, Cadmar throws himself in pursuit of the abductor. If possible, he tries to keep directly below the flying pair [run].
[If any of the dwarves are running in the same direction, he will end his move next to one of them to get AOP when they run by]
Up, Up and Away! [DM Matt] d20+6=16 d20+5=17 d20+9=20 d20+9=29 d20+9=25 d20+9=16 d20+2=20 d6=3 d20+2=4 d20+2=4 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 3:55:56 PM
Wynn moves over to Cassandra in time to see her float up and drinks his potion and begins to feel the gentle floaty effect on his body. [That's as much as you can do in a round]
Elerinn, not wanting to do anything wrong, does nothing. Solid wisdom. He can still hear the braying of Jenny to the north as she is whacked in the behind by the other captured dwarves.
Garrard thwacks the dwarf and connects but it keeps running. He shouts his order of attack and the hawk takes off after the pair. Garrard finishes by making wild gestures to cast his spell.
Andrath, Cadmar, Lorth, and Kedern take off full throttle after the bunch of ground dwarves. Andrath and Cadmar easily expect to overtake the dwarves, however after a round of running they find that the dwarves are still 40 feet away from them and moving fast!
[Where things stand now: Elerinn, Cadmar, and Wynn are still where they were. Lorth and Kedern have run 80 feet from the party. Andrath and Cadmar have run 120 feet. The dwarves have run 160 feet. Jenny and the entangle are 120 feet to the north and a little west. The tower lies approximately due west at an indeterminable distance.]
The now glowing flying dwarf looks down at you all, a warped expression on his face and chants differently than the other dwarves. Apparently he doesn't like to glow. Or likes it too much. The hawk, like an arrow, shoots up toward the dwarf and bites him in the rear! He is jostled in the air and Cassandra falls out of his arms. She screams and begins to drop and the dwarf lunges and manages to catch her hand and hold on. He immediately flies off through the air with the dangling witch. She looks up at her one arm and then down at the ground and screams some more, her legs flailing instinctively as they fly over the countryside like a firefly. They start to descend at an angle as the dwarf fidgets and tries to right himself. They descend right over the dwarves. Several of them bounce up and try to boost her back as they keep descending. Cassandras squirms and kicks and her hand slides out! She falls with a thud onto two dwarves. The other dwarves grab her and hold her aloft tightly, while others stand in front of them.
[This is 160 feet from the party.]
Garrard, AC: 12, Hp: 12 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 4:27:12 PM
Garrard charges forward at his maximum running speed.
(Should be 120'.)
"Let her go!", he shouts as he charges.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) Wednesday July 16th, 2003 7:26:13 PM
Wynn's feet leave the ground and he flies directly after the dwarf with Cassandra. He sees her struggle in the grip of her captor and eventually fall into the group of dwarves below. "I hope she is all right" thinks the bard as he closes in on the dwarf.
If the airborne dwarf attacks him as he approaches he will dodge that attack [effective AC =19.
"Over here" he shouts to the rest of the party in case they cannot see where the dwarves have headed.
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) Thursday July 17th, 2003 7:55:14 AM
Lorth continues to chase after the dwaves at full speed. (120').
Elerinn Thursday July 17th, 2003 11:25:51 AM
Elerinn is glad he receives some orders from Wynn, and his apathy is immediatly gone. He collects the plants that Cassandra lost and starts running, towards the place where he just heard Wynn call out.
Cadmar AC17 HP20 Thursday July 17th, 2003 11:45:48 AM
Puffing and huffing, the ranger continues to run right at the dwarves holding the witch. He covers 120ft, and as he closes the distance an animal growl starts to rise in his throat. His scimitar points menacingly at the dwarf formation.
Witchnapped! [DM Matt] d20+2=14 d20+2=17 d20+2=21 d20+7=27 Thursday July 17th, 2003 5:51:37 PM
Elerinn excitedly gathers up plants and runs 20 feet toward the dwarves. Garrard takes off as fast as he can towards the dwarves as well closing quite a gap and ends up 40 feet away shouting at them. Lorth and Cadmar both run up and make it to the dwarves standing right in front of two of them. Cadmar growls and waves his scimitar about. The dwarves look up at him and bark like seals in reply. Andrath and Kedern both stop, a bit out of breath from running too far too fast. Point of origin = where party started Elerinn = 20 ft W Kedern = 80 ft W Andrath = 120 ft W Cadmar = 160 ft W Garrard = 120 ft W Lorth = 160 ft W Wynn = Flying 160 ft W
The dwarves in front brandish their beards like rapiers and slash this way and that. Cadmar and Lorth are indeed tickled by them. Tee-hee.
Cassandra, now terrified at being grabbed and handled by a pack of strange dwarves, wriggles and shouts, "Help me! Help!" She squirms and pops through the center only to have two more from below push up from the ground. She catapults into the air and is snatched up by the flying dwarf. He immediately scowls at you all and zooms straight to the top of the tower, Cassandra screaming all the way. There the two seemingly disappear into the side of it. Half of the dwarves stop chanting and bolt straight for the tower.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+3=13 Thursday July 17th, 2003 6:22:05 PM
Wynn continues to fly towards the dwarves at the base of the tower, but before descending he watches as once again Cassandra is lifted up and flown to the top of the tower. Wynn changes his direction slightly and flys to the spot where the two disappeared intot he tower.
Wynn searches for somekind of secret door that will let him penetrate the tower wall(Search=13). If he finds a way in he will draw his sword and enter, otherwise he will call down to those below and ask for direction.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) Thursday July 17th, 2003 7:02:37 PM
Andrath runs to the tower, shouting, "Release the lady, or we will be forced to attack you with deadly force! This is your only warning!"
Garrard d20+5=9 d6+2=6 Thursday July 17th, 2003 7:15:23 PM
Garrard completes his charge with an overhand hacking blow, coming to a stop next to Cadmar. As he does so, he shouts to his hawk in Sylvan, "Return!"
(Ac:9. In the unlikely event of a hit, 6pts)
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) d20+5=24 d8+2=8 Friday July 18th, 2003 8:54:58 AM
Lorth swings at the nearest dwarf to him. (OOC: If there are any, Hit AC: 24 Damage: 8) He scores a solid hit as the dwarf sticks his beard out towards him.
Cadmar AC17 HP20 Friday July 18th, 2003 11:26:41 AM
The ranger runs up to the tower, wipes sweat out of his eyes, and starts to circle the building, looking for doors on the ground level, windows, or any other openings. Hearing Andrath shout, Cadmar nods with approval. "Yeah. That's about it."
Elerinn Friday July 18th, 2003 3:00:15 PM
Elerinn, after collecting the plants and moving towards the flying dwarves and his companions, sees them move away from him quickly. He decides to run as fast as his short feet can and tries to keep up with the rest.
Oddly enough, Elerinn remains having a strong feeling that the dwarves are not acting on their own.
OOC: Elerinn runs 80 feet towards the tower(20 feet x 4)
Kedarn Saturday July 19th, 2003 12:15:42 AM
Kedarn gathers his breath then starts running at max speed towards the towerafter the dwarves and the others.
Down the Hatch [DM Matt] Saturday July 19th, 2003 3:01:09 PM
Wynn zooms toward the tower top. The Tower is immense! Splindid craftsmanship. Intricate black and white and grey diamond marble patterns with rose trim and borders. The witchnapping dwarf seems to have entered right where that black diamond pattern is, but there's nothing there now. It's completely solid. No secret doors are found.
Far below, Wynn sees the dwarves enter through the ground level door. They all smile and shout syrupy greetings to the door, like "Please may we enter oh beautiful door!" and "You are magnificent and sturdy. May I enter your gorgeous frame?"
Wynn contemplates this as a childish voice from that area shouts, "You stop right there you--you-- That's what you are! Get down here THIS MINUTE! "
The rest of the party chases after the dwarves, although Lorth leaves one cleft in twain. They get there as the last of the dwarves exits into...well, into what looks like a mouth! There is a definite face on the door with a large mouth which opens up to the size of the dwarf as it enters. It gags a bit.
"*Hack* *Couch* Whoooooa! Those guys are hairy! Always gets their beards caught in my throat. Well, now just look at you all! Don't you just look oh so sweet and scrumptious. I could gobble you up! Oooooweeeeeooooooooooooo OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooo! Well?"
It waits.
"WELL?!?!?!?!?" It shouts in obsessive fury.
Cadmar Saturday July 19th, 2003 3:25:10 PM
There are dangerous flickers in the ranger's eyes, but he addresses the door very calmly: "Oh most glorious portal, worthy of infinite praise, deserving to be the entrance to Arcadian planes, may I humbly request to pass through you to admire your other side?"
Cadmar walks up to the door, not sure what to expect. If it allows him passage he will enter and follow the dwarves.
Garrard, AC: 21, Hp: 12 Saturday July 19th, 2003 8:44:25 PM
Garrard takes a five foot step back from the gate, turtling up with scimitar and shield. As he does so, he calls out to the group, "Everyone, fall back and reform as a group! Acting alone won't get her back! They have a superior caster, superior numbers, a hostage, and a fortified position. We must reform or we will take losses."
Kedarn Monday July 21st, 2003 1:21:24 AM
Kedarn will continue over to where Garrard is standing.
Elerinn Monday July 21st, 2003 6:04:33 AM
Elerinn, intrigued yet frightened by the talking portal, realizes someone with great magical powers must have created it, so entering the door might be very dangerous.
The little gnome hesitates when Cadmar tries to enter the door, but when Garrard calls out, he joins him and Kedarn, who is also walking towards Garrard.
Suddenly Elerinn has a dream-like feeling, it feels as if the last couple of days where not real and the group was still complete. But the absence of the deceased monk is enough for Elerinn that all of this is real, including the strange thing in front of him.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+5=14 Monday July 21st, 2003 7:42:09 AM
Unable to find and entrance at the top of the tower, Wynn floats down to rejoin the others.
"I can find no passage above" he recounts to the group. "It is as if they passed through solid marble"
Wynn then inspects the door before him and in his most sincere voice offers it great praise[Diplomacy=14], "Oh most splendid gate, surely you must lead to paradise. Might I pass through your glory to reach my friend?" Wynn will follow Cadmar through the strange portal if the ranger is successful.
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) Monday July 21st, 2003 8:57:25 AM
Lorth moves to Garrard, "I will cross the portal when we are all ready and everyone catches up. I'll follow your lead Garrard."
Lorth then waits for Garrard's order.
Knock Knock {DM Matt} Monday July 21st, 2003 3:11:35 PM
The eyes of the door light firey red. The face boils and angily bellows "Who DARES profrane this sacred place with their unworthiness?!?!"
The face turns purple as it covers the entire door. Staring at you as if it could kill you with its stare. "Heathens! Welcoooooommme to thy Dooooooooooooooooom!"
The mouth quivers, then it explodes with laughter. "I've always wanted to do that! *laugh* Come here you kids. Oh, you're so polite....and SO good looking!"
It makes google-eyes at Cadmar, "Hey baby, what you doin later? Whoa! You're hot! Darn hot! WHoa! I'm boiling over! Whoa! WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOA! Look at me! Swinging free! Oh I LOOOOOOOOVE you all! LOVElovelovelovelovelovelovelove!"
It nuzzles against Wynn with its nose, then lowers itself and gives Elerinn a big kiss. "You are such a cute widdow guy!"
"You make me so happy Happy as a Drallick melt on rye with extra mangroves! Uh-huh! uh huh! Not at all like that upstart furball. Too RUDE to use the door. Ever since he learned to fly he's been impossible. Always flying through my windows. And the windows ARE your gateway to the soul, you know...or ...wait...is that right?"
It rises to the middle again and peers at Wynn questioningly. Just then a loud noise is heard, like a big crash of glass breaking and through its mouth you can see a dwarf and a mule and a cart fall from seemingly midair from 4 feet off the floor inside. The dwarf has a black and grey beard and wears a straw hat and wears commoner's clothes. The mule...well, it's just a mule. It brays in Jenny-like fashion.
"Ooooh! That smarts. Now you watch yourself. Don't go touching anything, you!" says the door.
"Ohhhhhhhmmmmm Ohhhhhhhmmmmm! WOuld you like a song? I'd love to hug you and pet you and clean you up and call you George and Oooooohhhhhm! Ohhhhm!"
It sings in an airy tenor voice...
Dawn of light lying between a silence and sold sources Chased amid fusions of wonder In moments hardly seen forgotten Coloured in pastures of chance dancing leaves cast spells of challenge Amused but real in thought, we fled from the sea whole
Dawn of thought transferred through moments of days undersearching earth Revealing corridors of time provoking memories Disjointed but with purpose Craving penetrations offer links with the self instructors sharp and tender love As we took to the air a picture of distance
Garrard Monday July 21st, 2003 5:11:14 PM
In a low voice, Garrard states, "This seems a place of enchantment or insanity. I believe we face foes greater than our talents, and the most effective rescue we could mount would be to ask Cassandra's coven for assistance. Any disagreement?"
Mr. Thornhammer Monday July 21st, 2003 11:16:43 PM
The dwarf groans and then snaps, "Dadgum it, get off me, stupid Elf."
He rolls to his feet with a small black dog in his arms and glares at the door, "What? You kids never seen a dwarf before? Or mebbe you ain't never seen a talking door before. Can't says I blame you. Right weird that is, a talking door."
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 12:20:12 AM
Wynn takes a step back from the animated door. "I wish it would make up it's mind" he mutters under his breath".
Wynn eyes the sudden arrival of the dwarf with suspicion. "The good news" he thinks "is that at least this one doesn't seem to bounce all that well!". "And where have you come from?" he asks the dwarf, "do you know what has become of our companion Cassandra?" Wynn assists the dwarf in righting his mule and cart as a sign of good faith.
THe DM corrects Wynn Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 12:56:48 AM
The new dwarf is on the INSIDE of the tower on the other side of the door. You can see and hear him only through the door's mouth when it opens. You all are still outside.
Kedarn Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 4:15:28 AM
Kedarn looks at the door while listening to the rest of the group. After a few moments of thinking Kedarn says "we should return the plants that Cassandra was carrying to Dulcet and find out what he knows about this tower."
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 8:07:59 AM
Lorth says, "I agree with both of your assessments, but before we go to get help, let's question this dwarf that just appeared."
Lorth waits for the dwarf's responses to Wynn's questions.
Elerinn Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 9:49:49 AM
Elerinn agrees with the others to get some help, for someone who made this door must be very powerfull.
But realizing that waiting too long might be a bad idea if they want to rescue Cassandra, he eagerly awaits the dwarf's answers.
Cadmar Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 11:05:50 AM
The ranger struggles for a moment with his thoughts. Obviously, what Garrard suggests is prudent. Unfortunately, Cadmar is acting on emotions right now.
"I'm sorry, I can't just leave her in there. Everyone in this place seems to go insane, I want to get her out before she is hurt!"
Turning to the door, Cadmar replies: "We have business with this upstart furball. He kidnapped one of our friends. Are you letting us in or not? We asked politely."
If the door refuses to open, the ranger runs back to Jenny and supplies and gets a handaxe [do I remember right that we bought one?].
Mr. Thornhammer Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 11:08:06 AM
"I might as well ask what all of you are doing here, and I could ask you what a "cassandra" is too. Is that a elf word for mule? 'Cause this one is mine, and you can't have it."
[forgive the extra post, just trying to save some time]
That's Just Crazy Talk! [DM Matt] Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 6:33:46 PM
"No, No, No," interrupts the door, "Your loud friend is right. The witch is in danger! DANGER DANNNNNNNNNNGER! WARNING! WARNING! DANGER! Those mindoses want a witch and it seems the Cassandra witch was the correct flavor. LIke Chocolate Strawberry Banana without the banana! THEY want to make HER like THEM so that SHE will worhip HIM! Cause sayin all those nouns over and over will really wear you down. And when that happens. Oooooooooooh! *shudder* It won't take long to make her like him like them and maybe HIM can get Himself killed and talk YOU with HIM..."
It sings again... "Dawn of our power we amuse redescending as fast as misused expression As only to teach love as to reveal passion chasing late into corners And we danced from the ocean
Dawn of love sent within us colours of awakening among the many wont to follow Only tunes of a different age As the links span our endless caresses for the freedom of life everlasting
Talk to the sunlight caller Soft summer mover distance mine
Called out a tune but I never saw the face Heard but not replaced I ventured to talk but I never lost my place
Cast out a spell rendered for the light of day Lost in lights array I ventured to see as the sound began to play
What happened to this song we once knew so well Signed promise for moments caught within the spell I must have waited all my life for this Moment moment..."
It stops and crosses its eyes, "You know that mule tastes really good. You got any more? ACK Phbpppt! ack ack ack!"
It hacks and coughs as if it had something caught in its throat, then ***>PTOOOOEY<*** a large splinter of wood shoots forth from its mouth and sticks in the ground.
"Hyeeeere, take dat syee? You dirty rats! Yit's a cyompass, syeee and it pointz da way to go, see? So don't gyet any bright ideas, syee?"
It stares blankly at you. "Well, you want to stick it to the flying mindose don't you? HA! Get it? STICK it to the mindoses! HA! I kill me! How about some chocolate cake! Now if I were a mindose where would I be?" "Inside," says the door to itself. "Shaddup, rabbit! Who asks you!" "You did you've already given away half the plot already!" "And I suppose YOU could do better!" "Why don't YOU just MAKE me?!" "Are you tawkin to ME?!?" "Yeah" "Are you TAWKING TO ME?!?!?" "I SAID YEAH!" "Then Why don't you just tell them about the four portals they have to go through and about the four parts of the key in each part that they have to collect which they will have to put together to defeat the flying mindose!"
"I WOULD BUT YOU ALREADY DID!"
"I did not!" "You just did" "When" "Just Now" "Whennow" "Nownow" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did" "Didn't" "Did"
This kind of pointless arguing goes on for sometime until...
"Okay, come on in but you must ask nicely...you too, shaggy" it says to Thornhammer, "And I'm only letting you go along because I like the taste of your mule..."
It opens its mouth wide and in the doorway (from both sides) is a swirl of mist.
Garrard Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 9:06:36 PM
Garrard states, "I vote against, but I will move with the majority. Votes, gentlemen?"
Lorth Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 7:32:54 AM
"Well, if we haven't much time, as the door says. Then we must try now." Lorth readies his weapons.
Elerinn Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 9:04:36 AM
Elerinn hesitates, and then states: "I don't think we have much of a choice, this door here says they will make her one of them very soon. If we get help first, we might be too late and besides that..."
Suddenly, Elerinn stops, a surprised look on his face. The gnome almost finished his sentence with stating that they already lost one of their group. This suicidal thought surprises him greatly and he tries to forget it immediatly.
Cadmar Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 10:58:40 AM
"Four portals? Four keys? Flying mindose?" The ranger shakes his head. "Normally I would love to solve riddles, but not if somebodys life is at stake."
"Does the upstart furball have a name? For that matter, do you have a name, door?"
The ranger picks up the splinter of wood spit out by the mouth and examines it briefly, not sure if the door was serious about the compass thing.
Then he walks into the tower, stops before the dwarf, and looks him over.
"I believe I haven't seen you with the kidnappers. I am Cadmar Gondaval. My friends and me are trying to rescue an elf taken by some scum who seem to den in here. Are you one of the inhabitants of this tower?"
"One thing worries me. How do we know that the mindose doesn't fly out with Cassandra while we are inside the tower?"
Turning to the portal, Cadmar says: "From what you have said I assume you are the voice of the tower itself. Could you lock the windows until we are done with the flying pest? Pretty please with a cherry on top?"
Andrath Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 11:37:28 AM
Andrath shakes his head at the silliness being spouted by the door. "Does anyone know what a flying mindose is? I've never heard of it. Is it another name for the dwarf that captured Cassandra? It seems we need to find some items through some portals, then put them together to form a key, then use the key to defeat the 'mindose'. And that splinter will lead us to what? the portals? Are the portals inside?"
He looks up at the tower, and says, "Master doorway, who sings such beautiful songs, and tells such wonderful tales, please allow me to enter!" Assuming the door allows passage, Andrath moves inside, and asks the dwarf, "Are you one of those crazy tumling dwarves that captured our friend Cassandra? They have taken her into this tower, and we are looking for her." Andrath looks around inside, tyring to get his bearings.
Mr. Thornhammer Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 2:09:22 PM
The dwarf stands up as Cadmar enters and reaches out his aging hand to shake. The grip is firm but hardly overpowering, "A polite tongue goes a long way, sir. Long way, indeed. I am most pleased to make your 'quaintance, Mr. Gondoval. I am Ogden Thornhammer, and I'm most happy to report that I am not a resident of this tower, jist a visitor. I come in about a week ago and have been looking for the way out ever since. Now here I've found it, but it sounds as if you might need a bit of help. I might be able to lend a hand, but I don't like this talk of witches. I hear they dance with devils and drink blood."
He looks over at Andrath, "Do I look like a crazed tumbling dwarf, son?"
Kedarn Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 5:26:16 PM
Kedarn looks to the others then says "I am one for trying to get Cassandra back so that we may return her to Jarlwolf with the plants that were recovered." A few moments later Kedarn looks over to the dwarf and says "Greetings, I am Kedarn Shadowglade cleric of Gargul."
A Door is a Door [DM Matt] Thursday July 24th, 2003 8:38:24 AM
"Me?" asks the door, "A name? No I'm just a door. And no I can't lock the windows but they only use em to come in. They have boingee boingee boingee powers of eating cheese and radishes and poofing out long distance in a swirling mist. Kinda funny that way.
Now, if you please, " it says in a rather professorial tone, "the mindoses were affected by HIM and become whatever HIS BIZARRENESS has in his dreams...and these be tumbling dwarves (don't wsk me why or I'll start to cry, stick a needle in your eye...)"
Cadmar finds that all he has to do is concentrate on the splinter and it points. At the moment it points further into the tower.
"No," says the door to the dwarf, "Leave? It's not your turn. You definitely aren't ready yet."
The door opens its mouth again, "Ah oh i hh ahm an i ex"
Lorth (AC 16, HP 26/10 Subdual) Thursday July 24th, 2003 8:46:26 AM
Lorth waits for Garrard and follows him into the tower when he is ready.
Mr. Thornhammer Thursday July 24th, 2003 9:15:51 AM
The dwarf nods at Kedarn, "It is my most definite pleasure, Mr. Shadowglade."
Wynn Brightsong Thursday July 24th, 2003 10:03:19 AM
Wynn repeats his earlier praise of the door and asks for entrance to the tower. Once inside he greets the dwarf and asks for further insight into the inner workings of the tower.
"You say you were in here for a week? What have you discovered in that time? Have you come across any of these portals the door talked of?"
Cadmar Thursday July 24th, 2003 11:58:39 AM
The ranger is surprised to discover that the splinter of wood is actually more than is seems. He briefly describes the discovery to the rest of the group.
Turning again to the dwarf, he looks him in the eyes for a moment, trying to judge his character. If he is able to read anything he keeps it to himself. Eventually he says. "Glad to meet you, Mr Thornhammer. Frankly, at this point, any help is most welcome. Especially of the one who knows something about the inside of the tower. We make decisions as a party, though. Does anyone object to accepting the company of Mr Ogden?" Cadmar rises his eyebrow and glances briefly at Lorth.
"You have been here for a week, Mr Thornhammer? You must be starved, or at least your animal is. I wouldn't expect much in the way of hay in here. We have some food we can share with you."
"I would assume the mindose is the head dwarf. We haven't heard about anyone else in the tower who would be capable of flight, have we? Good portal! Who exactly is this HE you keep referring to? How does one protect himself against his influence? You seem to know great deal more than you told us, but you obviously enjoy keeping it to yourself. Part of your fun, I believe. Fine. Any other bits of advice you would care to part with before we go off in search of our friend?"
Garrard d8+3=8 Thursday July 24th, 2003 12:39:21 PM
Garrard replies to Cadmar, "We are dealing with a spellcaster. I do not think trusting that animate objects talking are necessarily telling the truth."
"However, the vote is five to one. Group, form up and move through the gate."
As the group does so, Garrard taps Lorth once with his wand of cure light wounds. (8 hp cured)
Garrard - OOC Thursday July 24th, 2003 2:36:51 PM
(My mistake... the wand is d8+5, so it should be 10hp cured.)
Andrath Thursday July 24th, 2003 11:48:41 PM
Andrath answers the suddenly-appearing dwarf, "Well, old one, we saw a whole pile of dwarves enter this tower with our friend, and now you, a dwarf, appear in the tower, so it is not a stretch to ask if you are one of those dwarves. But it appears that you are not, so what can you tell us about this tower with the talking door?"
He waits to follow Cadmar, who seems to have the item that will lead them to Cassandra.
Bats in the Dark
Inky Blackness [DM Matt] Friday July 25th, 2003 3:54:53 AM
Cadmar's further questions of the door go unanswered. The door is no longer there. Everyone stepped into the mouth and then the mouth was not there. Only the dwarf in a small room and a swirly misty white doorway right in front of you. No way back and searches of the wall behind you came up with nothing as if the bricks themselves closed so tightly together as to not let a door exist there. Slowly you all step into the misty white door, which Cadmar notes that the splinter points stubbornly in that direction...
...and you sink. Down down...in muck. STepping down maybe two or three feet. It stinks. Really stinks. Elerinn sinks to his neck. Elf barks and tries to climb onto the mule. The mule brays at Ogden. But you cannot see any of this, but only hear it as the sound echoes off in the vast airy distance. It is total blackness. Dark, inky blackness all around.
Lorth Friday July 25th, 2003 7:36:05 AM
Lorth fumbles through his pack, attempting to find his lantern, when he does he lights it up. "I'm going to try and light my lantern so that I can see, my eyes aren't good in this blackness." After lighting the lantern, (whether it cuts through the blackness or not) Lorth's free hand goes to his temple and he concentrates on the area, and also Mr. Thornhammer, trying to discern evil.
Wynn Brightsong Friday July 25th, 2003 8:40:04 AM
Wynn reaches forward in the darkness until he feels the side of the mule. He keeps one hand resting on the animal and calls to the rest of the group. "Over here...we need to stick together...everyone call out your name one at a time and we'll make sure we have everyone."
Wynn will hover over the muck if his potion of flyis still active, and assist anyone who requires a hand.
Kedarn (darkvision - domain granted) Friday July 25th, 2003 11:14:14 AM
Kedarn looks arond for everyone using the domain granted ability darkvision. Kedarn will try to make it over to the mule.
Garrard Friday July 25th, 2003 12:22:20 PM
Garrard says, "I am going to make a light, but it will only last a few moments. Get ready to move into a group, and Lorth, get ready to grab your lantern."
Garrard waits for a few comments of assent, and then activates his Seal of Sunlight, which illuminates a 50 foot area for a round. During this light, he will move to stand near the group.
Cadmar Friday July 25th, 2003 12:47:51 PM
Just before the group enters the portal, Cadmar replies to Garrard: "It seems doubtful that this flying dwarf is actually the original builder and owner of that tower. He seems more like a squatter to me. To be frank, if he was a spellcaster capable of creating this thing, he could have blasted us out of this world with a single spell when we met him outside. Instead, he uses brute force to take Cassandra, and almost fails at that? Seems more like an apprentice to me with some wand and potions."
Once darkness falls around them, Cadmar calls out his name as Wynn suggested. When (if?) light is made, he makes it to the group around the mule, makes sure the weapon and shield in his hands are ready, and takes a good look around.
Mr. Thornhammer Friday July 25th, 2003 2:17:04 PM
"Bah, this is what it always does. I don't know a galderned thing about this tower. Ya open a door and the floor falls out from under you or gods know what. If I had any idea about it, it wouldn't have taken me a week to find the exit again. Now it's gone, gone, gone, gone."
He takes a flask out of the pocket of his leather vest and takes a long swallow before putting it back.
"Always room for the wagon though. It's loaded with food... and drinks. Couldn't have made it a week in here without a keg of South Harbor Stout."
Andrath Monday July 28th, 2003 1:03:47 AM
Andrath calls out his name, and looks around for Elerinn. If he spots the gnome, he forces his way over, and lifts him from the mire, placing him on the cart brought by the dwarf. "There, Elerinn, that is probably the safest place for you, until we get out of this stink."
What IS this crap? [DM Matt] Tuesday July 29th, 2003 1:16:51 AM
Lorth fumbles through his pack for all the fixins for a good ole lantarn lightin'. While he works on making a spark,Kedern tries to focus his darkvision, but strangely it doesn't seem to work. He, Cadmar, Andrath, and Wynn head toward the mule's noise in the darkness trudging through the sludge. They bump into these boingee slimy fuzzy things about torso-high. The things don't move although they give way a little like a soft branch. You hear some rustling far above you. Garrard recognizes the sound as Bat wings and lots of them.
Garrard breaks his seal and nothing happens. Still dark. Finally Lorth gets his lantern lit. In between the seal pieces in midair there is a point of "light", but that's not where the light comes from. The only light comes from Lorth's lantern.
No walls are seen. Andrath immediately sees Elerinn's head poking out and plucks him up. The five move easily to the mule. Thornhammer stays still and grumbles and takes a nice long shot of stout. When he lowers his flask he sees Lorth looking at him with his finger to his temple with a strange look in his eye, a look Ogden has only seen by spellcasters when they are casting.
[Results next round Lorth as lantern lighting takes a full round]
The group seems to be on the very top of a pillar, which only Ogden can determine is made of stone, as its covered in guano. It measures about 25 feet across. There are no walls, just a sudden drop off. Along with the guano, on the pillars are five tall stalagmites evenly spaced in the shape of an equilateral pentagram halfway between the center and the edge of the pillar. Also on the pillar, spread throughout the guano are mushrooms. They are all over. Some are very small and simply carpet the guano while about every five feet there is a three foot tall mushroom which must be what you bumped into. As you look out across the calm darkness, you realize that there are four other pillars out there with the same mushrooms and stalagmites. All the pillars also form a pentagram. Your pillar is about ten feet from the two pentagrams on either side.
Garrard notices that the flapping sounds overhead now seem more furious and aggressive. Unfortunately, the seal's "light" goes out, plunging you all into darkness again. The lantern no longer penetrates the darkness.
Lorth Tuesday July 29th, 2003 7:33:03 AM
"Hmmm... looks like we need two lights to cut through this inky darkness. Anyone have more light besides my lantern?" Lorth continues to concentrate on the area for evil.
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday July 29th, 2003 8:30:24 AM
Wynn scans the surroundings during the brief period of light.
I think we are meant to get to one of the other pillars, they must be the other portals the bard cries out.
If his fly potion is still working he will offer to fly over to another pillar with a length of rope.
Elerinn Tuesday July 29th, 2003 10:52:32 AM
Elerinn must recover for a moment, and holds the cart where Andrath placed him, very tight. While sitting on the cart, Elerinn tries to look into the darkness and is horrified by the idea he could just have been drowned to death in a pool of mushrooms.
OOC: I'm sorry I didn't post anything for a couple of days. I had some problems with my internet connection, but I'm able to post again.
Garrard Tuesday July 29th, 2003 2:44:09 PM
Garrard quietly states, "Bats above, and many."
He then waits until the lantern comes up, snugs his gloves on his hands, and begins a slow, careful search, muttering a Guidance spell as he does so.
(Take 10 on search, plus guidance: DC 15)
Cadmar AC21 HP20 Tuesday July 29th, 2003 3:01:02 PM
"Uh oh. What a gross place. I think two light sources won't be enough. Seems that you need some sort of magical aid to dispel the darkness here."
"We should probably investingate one of the other stalagmites. Anyone coming? Let's all keep close. Wynn?" The ranger starts to gently urge the group to follow the bard.
Expecting the bats to attack and swarm around the party any moment now, Cadmar puts his hood on, wraps himself in the cloak, and starts to watch for trouble [Total Defense].
Mr. Thornhammer Tuesday July 29th, 2003 10:44:07 PM
"Well this is different, ain't it? Thorak told me weird stuff like this would happen if I left the mountain, but did I listen? Noooooo."
Andrath Wednesday July 30th, 2003 1:11:42 AM
Andrath struggles to get his hooded lantern out of his backpack, but manages to get it lit, hoping it adds to the light on the top of the pillar. Once the lantern is lit, he holds it in one hand, and draws his longsword to hold it in the other hand.
[OOC: Bob, I was not able to get the book at Comics North in Sudbury, so you should look for it in Ottawa.]
Kedarn Wednesday July 30th, 2003 4:49:58 AM
Kedarn pulls out his sword and then casts Light centered on the sword.
And The Dark Played On... [DM Matt] d8=2 Wednesday July 30th, 2003 6:21:35 AM
As the lights have once again gone out, Lorth turns inward to ask his deity to reveal to him: evil. He is comforted by the short tingly feeling in his temples of peace about the area. No evil. Just a grumbly dwarf. As Lorth finishes, he hears Kedern mumble in tongue arcane but is unsure of what the result was...because no light goes on. Andrath spends a lot of time going through his pack and trying to light flint and steel without being able to see. He stubs his thumb a few times and gets his hand too close to the fire and finally is convinced he has the lantern lit. But still no light...
So Garrard is forced to put his gloves on in the dark. A slight inconventience but he's sure he can manage. Only this makes his search a bit impossible. Unless he wants to get DOWN and DIRTY! Cadmar meanwhile, starts to head towards a stalagmite. He is pretty sure where he saw one and heads in that direction. He does indeed bump into one of the big mushrooms he saw near the stalagmite he's heading towards, but then again, they're all over. [Make a reflex save Cadmar please] Wynn continues to hover a little off the ground. Elerinn stays put, whimpering in the cart. He feels a warm, wet sensation across his face, followed by the questionably worse stench of Mule-breath.
[Wynn I don't know when you started the spell. It lasts 10 minutes/level, where level = the level it was cast at.]
Elerinn Wednesday July 30th, 2003 6:47:27 AM
Elerinn wipes his face clean and remembers one single thing he saw when there was some light: the bats. Realizing in horror that, most likely, it is something belonging to them dripping across his face.
At least it is better than those mushrooms. I think..., the disgusted gnome thinks and almost starts casting one of his spells to get some light, but realizes that the spells cast by his companions moments ago were intended for the same purpose and these didn't work exactly either. Instead, he calls out: "If you decide to go to one of the other stalagtites, could someone please...carry me?"
Lorth Wednesday July 30th, 2003 7:44:48 AM
Lorth makes his way over to Elerinn slowly. When he gets there he says, "Climb up on my shoulders Elerinn, I'll carry you around. Anyone have any ideas how we can get rid of this darkness? I'm afraid to move to far as we might fall off the pillar."
Wynn Brightson Wednesday July 30th, 2003 8:30:46 AM
Wynn curses the magical darkness and calls out to the group...Does anyone have a dispel darkness or a dispell magic spell...if so, now would be a great time for it! Just let me get out of the way before you set it off, I have about 30 more minutes of flying left and that might be useful.
Wynn continues to face in the direction that he last saw one of the other pillars. I could try to find another pillar. If Cadmar or Andrath were to hold onto one end of the rope, I could search around slowly until I bumped into one.
Wynn waits for a response from the group.
Mr. Thornhammer Wednesday July 30th, 2003 11:58:32 AM
"Magic!? Don't do any more magic, it'll just make everything worse.... what is that smell?"
Garrard Wednesday July 30th, 2003 5:49:59 PM
Garrard considers for a moment, and asks, "Did anyone get a look at how far down the floor might be? Any have a grappling hook?"
DM correction Wednesday July 30th, 2003 5:54:26 PM No one has seen ANY bats. You didn't even see the ceilling as it is higher than the light went. You only heard rustling way way overhead which you couldn't identify and Garrard said it was bats.
Also just to make it clear again. You all are standing on a tall pillar (the floor the pillar is standing on could not be seen either). On the pillar with you are five stalagmites (stalagmites form on the pillar and point UP) in the shape of a pentagram (five-sided polygon), bat guano and lots of mushrooms. There are a total of five of these pillars in this cavern which are also in the shape of a pentagram.
If ever I correct someone with information like this they have mistaken you are free to do your post over again and I will delete your original. You can also ask me questions as a private post and I will respond as quickly as possible.
Andrath Thursday July 31st, 2003 12:26:30 AM
Andrath continues to hold his lit lantern over his head, hoping one of the magic-users in the party can dispell what must be some sort of magical darkness. He tries to figure out what allowed light to first appear, so that the party could see that they were on the top of the pillar. "Can anyone figure what light source originally worked here, so that we can try that again? Dwarf, I understand that your kind can see even in utter darkness. Can you see through this darkness?"
Cadmar C21 HP20 d20+3=20 Thursday July 31st, 2003 12:30:34 AM
Cadmar walks into the mushroom [Ref 20]. Realizing that he has wandered further away from the party than he intended, and afraid to walk off the pillar, he stops. He raises his shield defensively, even though he can't see a thing [total defense]. He doesn't turn around, afraid to lose his sense of direction.
"Wynn, I am here. Fly over and I will hold the rope for you. Also, I have a grappling hook. How do you want to use it, Garrard?"
Elerinn Thursday July 31st, 2003 8:31:42 AM
Elerinn climbs on Lorth's shoulders and is glad he can get away from the cart, for he felt quite helpless in there. If not for the darkness, Elerinn ponders, one of his spells could be very usefull to reach the other pillars.
Whoopsidaisy! [DM Matt] Thursday July 31st, 2003 8:51:11 AM
Cadmar starts walking and as he bumps into another big mushroom it startles him and his feet start to go out from under him. Luckily he catches himself with his sheer center of gravity and does not fall, grabbing onto the mushroom for support, as flimsy as that is.
As Lorth walks towards what he thinks is the cart, he too bumps into tall mushrooms and he too must make a reflex save.
Lorth d20+4=8 Thursday July 31st, 2003 12:26:49 PM
Lorth bumps into something and slips...
Mr. Thornhammer Thursday July 31st, 2003 1:00:05 PM
"I don't think I can see. Let me try."
Cadmar Thursday July 31st, 2003 2:39:57 PM
"It's slippery here. Let's not separate. It must be a long fall. Maybe we should tie ourselves with a rope? Can you make it to me? I think I have pretty good idea about where the stalactite is."
The ranger remains where he is, shield raised above his head for protection.
Garrard Thursday July 31st, 2003 5:30:11 PM
Garrard tries a different tack, and casts Faerie Fire, centered on himself.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday July 31st, 2003 5:49:59 PM
Wynn flys towards where he heard Cadmar call from. The bard flies slowly, feeling his way in the darkness, arms outstretched. Once he has found Cadmar, Wynn searches his pack and retrieves the length of rope contained within.
"Take this end of my rope Cadmar", the bard holds out one end of the rope to the ranger and waits for him to take it. "If I fly towards the next pillar perhaps I can pass through this infernal darkness. If I get lost you can pull me back with the rope."
Wynn waits for affirmation of his plan.
[OOC Greg: I will look for the book in Ottawa]
Andrath Thursday July 31st, 2003 11:44:02 PM
Andrath moves carefully towards Cadmar's voice, calling out, "I suggest we all move towards Cadmar, and tie ourselves together."
Slippery When Pooed [DM Matt] d6=5 d8=3 Friday August 1st, 2003 4:25:49 AM
Cadmar's observation is coorect. Lorth bumps into a mushroom which bobbles and distracts him. His feet slide and he tries to steady himself on the mushroom he is moving towards but it is flimsy and crusty and not strong. Lorth's arms flail and his feet go out.
>*CRACK*<
Lorth feels a sharp pain in his head as he finds a stalagmite. [5 damage]
Wynn flies slowly towards the noise and seems to be in the right area. Lots of noise there. And everyone can hear him.
Andrath tries to carefully move towards Cadmar and it's tough but he's being careful. [A reflex save for Andrath, but the chances are better...] He bumps into a big mushroom every five feet he moves.
Neither Ogden's dwarfvision nor Garrard's Faerie Fire can be seen.
Kedarn Friday August 1st, 2003 4:53:45 AM
Kedarn says to Andrath "very good idea." Kedarn will then pull out his rope from his backpack and try to move carefully in the direction of Cadmar's voice.
Lorth (HP 21/10 Subdual) Friday August 1st, 2003 8:23:04 AM
Lorth decides to crawl the rest of the way to get to the cart and retreive Elerinn.
Mr. Thornhammer Friday August 1st, 2003 11:22:10 AM
Ogden doesn't move from his spot, but he curses bitterly about the situation under his breath, "Right at the exit... right there... now I'm waist deep in $#!% with a bunch of elves... real slick Ogden... way to use your noggin."
Cadmar Friday August 1st, 2003 12:27:30 PM
The ranger sheathes his scimitar, puts his shield over his back, and holds the end of the rope handed to him by Wynn (assuming Wynn does so). He remains motionless, but hearing that others are trying to get to his position he keeps talking: "I'm here. This way. Here. Watch out for the mushrooms, slippery stuff. Here..."
Garrard Friday August 1st, 2003 1:47:25 PM
Taking one, slow, careful step at a time, Garrard moves towards Cadmar.
Wynn Brightsong Friday August 1st, 2003 5:55:26 PM
Wynn hands the end of his rope to Cadmar and when he is sure the ranger has it, he secures the other end to his belt and slowly begins to fly in the direction of the nearest pillar. As before, he feels his way forward in the dark, communicating his progress to Cadmar as he goes. He also feeds out rope behind him in measured amounts until he believes he has let out 40 feet, which must surely exceed the distance to the next pillar.
Should he find the next pillar he will secure his end of the rope around a stalagnite and follow the rope back to Cadmar.
Wynn can hear Cadmar calling out to the others, and chuckles at the grousing dwarf that has joined the party.
Elerinn Sunday August 3rd, 2003 6:18:52 PM
The short gnome feels quite helpless here, at a place where he can't see, walk or use his magic. He is able to remain calm, however, being carried in Lorth's firm grip.
Andrath d20+8=15 Sunday August 3rd, 2003 11:19:18 PM
Andrath continues to move towards the voice of Cadmar, carefully making his way through the slop. [OOC: Reflex save of 15, good enough?]
Whistling In The Dark [DM Matt] d8=6 d20=19 Monday August 4th, 2003 2:17:17 AM
Andrath manages to hold his footing exactly and finds a body. It is Kedern's. Kedern, Andrath, and, Garrard move slowly and carefully towards the sound of Cadmar. (Reflex Save DC 5). The three of you manage to find Cadmar. A Reflex save for the four of you. (Ked, And, Gar, and Cad) Whoever scores 18 or above can feel and grab the rope.
Lorth makes it to the cart on his knees and bumps his face into two of the tall mushrooms. They are fairly sweet actually. He meets one in every five foot area he traverses. He also realizes that the guano is the slippery part and the mushrooms, being more flaky and rough provide just a bit of traction unless they are mashed into the stuff.
He picks up the grateful Elerinn and takes him aboard.
Wynn flies forward slowly, a tight rope on his belt. The nervbousness of the fluttering above him increases. He feels something in front of him finally! It is hard and solid and rocky! Feels like it!
Lorth (HP 21/10 Subdual) Monday August 4th, 2003 7:34:42 AM
Lorth puts Elerinn securely on his shoulders and leans on the cart. He waits for futher developments, since he can't fly or see.
Wynn Brightsong Monday August 4th, 2003 8:51:17 AM
Wynn calls back to Cadmar with the news "Cadmar, I think I have found one of the other pillars, give me a momemnt and I will make sure. If it is, I will secure my end of the rope to one of the stalagnites and come back."
The half-elf continues to feel his way forward looking for other stalagnites in the pattern of a pentagram. If he finds them he will choose one to tie off to, and then follow this fixed line back to the group.
[OOC: I presume I have not left the area of effect of the magic darkness]
Kedarn d20+3=22 Monday August 4th, 2003 10:27:09 AM
Kedarn reaches out and grabs the rope (reflex save 22) then helps Andrath.
Cadmar d20+3=15 Monday August 4th, 2003 10:56:35 AM
"I can't find the rope, Wynn!" [Ref 15]
Rising his head and trying to figure out what is causing all those strange noises above, the ranger mutters: "Trouble coming our way."
[OOC: I will be traveling tomorrow. Cadmar will stay put, unless rope is secured to the stalagmite. If the rope is secured, he will hold it for others to follow, then he will go along it himself. I will resume posting on Wednesday]
Garrard d20+2=10 Monday August 4th, 2003 12:56:04 PM
Garrard slowly makes his way across the platform, maintaining his balance carefully. Once he reaches Cadmar's rough vicinity, he stops a short distance away, to allow some room for Cadmar to capture the rope.
CDM Jerry Monday August 4th, 2003 5:41:58 PM
Jasper, your email has been spitting back at me lately...about a week now. Please be sure your email box is not full and is working properly please. Email me when all is ok and I'll send a test email to you to see that we're up and communicating again.
Thanks!
Elerinn Monday August 4th, 2003 5:59:54 PM
Elerinn silently waits for Wynn to return, and isn't complete sure if he would be brave enough to do such a thing himself. Still feeling quite helpless, Elerinn whispers a short prayer, adressed to Wardd.
OOC follow up: Ian Monday August 4th, 2003 8:21:55 PM
(On thursday the 24th, Lorth was healed an additional 10hps.)
Andrath d20+8=16 Tuesday August 5th, 2003 12:10:30 AM
Andrath manages to keep his feet as he nears Cadmar, but can't find the rope. [OOC: Reflex save of 16]
Floating...[DM Matt] d12=3 Tuesday August 5th, 2003 7:10:46 AM
Kedern grabs the rope and holds it tightly. Lorth rights himself and picks up Elerinn. Wynn feels that whatever he ran into gets smaller toward the top and bigger toward the bottom. He drifts forward some more and does not feel anything else though he tries. He passes way past where he thinks other stalagmites should be. As he reflects this, he notices something. Way back across in the area he originally came from, he sees a faint glow of light. Like a faint area of it, dim like the very edge of normal functioning light.
Back at the other end, the fluttering above gets louder. It's still in the distance above but definitely closer.
Garrard, AC: 21, Hp: 12 d20+3=17 Tuesday August 5th, 2003 1:11:20 PM
Garrard kneels, heedless of the muck, and raises his shield to cover his from above. As he kneels there, turtled up, he listens carefully for other clues about the environment.
(Listen check: DC 17)
Cadmar Wednesday August 6th, 2003 1:08:39 AM
The ranger takes some comfort from hearing his friends move close by, but the lack of light starts to make him very nervous. After some fumbling around he realizes that Kedarn managed to catch the rope. Cadmar holds tight to it and whispers hoarsely: "Is everyone here? I think we have a rope we can follow. Is the other end secured?"
A mild wave of panic washes over him as he for a second contemplates the possibility that the door was in fact an one-way portal and the party is stuck here forever...
Elerinn Wednesday August 6th, 2003 8:43:37 AM
Elerinn, still secure in Lorth's firm grip, feels more and more uneasy in the dark. He hopes Wynn will return soon with a possible solution. Trying to hide his own fear, he asks if everyone is still allright.
Lorth Wednesday August 6th, 2003 10:30:42 AM
Lorth waits...
>*Clank*< [DM Matt] d20+5=11 d20+5=18 d100=87 d8+4=5 Wednesday August 6th, 2003 6:28:20 PM
The fluttering noise gets closer and a screech is heard and >*CLANK*<, the sound of something bouncing off Garrard's shield. It felt pretty heavy to Garrard too. Some type of creature. Cadmar hears the same rush from above and then feels a painful bite into his left arm. [5 damage]
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=20 Wednesday August 6th, 2003 11:15:36 PM
Wynn secures his end of the rope around what he believes to be a stalagnite and starts to head back to the group when he spots the dim glow from where he originally came. He flies back towards the group, following the rope and monitoring his progress in armlengths along the fixed line. He wonders why he was unable to find any other stalagnites on the new pillar or if he even found a new pillar.
"At least we have an option now"he thinks, "I hope the others have some ideas about what I have found and about why I can see the light from a distance and not from up close".
Wynn searches across the darkened space to the dim light for shadows or anything that might betray the size and shape of any potential threats. [OOC Search=20]
Cadmar AC17 HP15(20) Thursday August 7th, 2003 1:49:42 AM
The ranger screams in pain and instinctively grabs his shield [move action] rising it above his head. "Something bit me! Quick, follow the rope! If we remain stuck in here we will be killed off one by one!" Cadmar starts to move along the rope, grasping it firmly with his free hand.
Kedarn Thursday August 7th, 2003 5:45:12 AM
Hearing Cadmar's comment Kedarn starts to move along using the rope as a guide. Kedarn will help the others find the rope if they need help.
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 Thursday August 7th, 2003 7:35:04 AM
"Mr. Thornhammer, are you prepared to leave you mule and cart behind? If not, I'll stay and help you defend it. Sorry Elerinn, I'm going to have to put you down for a moment, I suggest you crawl under the cart." Lorth puts Elerinn down and prepares to attack any of the flying creatures that get near him.
(OOC: Warhammer and shield, 50% miss chance, cause I can't see them, and I lose my dex. so AC 15)
Elerinn Thursday August 7th, 2003 10:46:10 AM
Elerinn, gratefull for Lorth's help, tries to listen if he hears any incoming creatures, so he can warn Lorth. He does this while quietly sitting still in the cart.
Garrard, AC: 21, AC: 12 Thursday August 7th, 2003 12:53:58 PM
Garrard shuffles towards the rope on his knees, maintaining his raised shield position.
Andrath d20+2=6 Thursday August 7th, 2003 11:26:08 PM
Andrath struggles mentally with all that is happening. He says, "What happens if all this, or a significant part of it, is an illusion? Maybe someone is playing with our minds." He tries to concentrate to see through the darkness and the bat crap and the other sillinesses. [OOC: Will save of 6 against illusion, not likely.]
Cadmar AC16 HP15(20) Friday August 8th, 2003 12:41:54 AM
[OOC: errata to AC. Forgot to remove Dex bonus.]
What Lies in the Darkness [DM Matt] d20+5=7 d20+5=8 Friday August 8th, 2003 2:04:40 AM
Wynn drifts back in thought about the darkness and sees further evidence about it. The darkness forms a complete cylinder over the pillar, but it doesn't descend past the top of the pillar. Like there is an area of darkness in every 5-foot square on the pillar. Then he sees it! A creature, he can't quite see what, large in size, with a long wingspan of about 15 feet. It descends and you hear someone scream, sounds like Cadmar, then you see the two creatures ascend again. They then fly around for another dive.
[Wynn if you would like to fire at them you may. I'll give you a lesser miss chance of 20%]
[Others may attack with the total concealment rule. Which means 50% miss chance (01-50 miss 51-00 hit) and no Attack of opportunity chance.]
You all hear the flapping again. Gets closer. Andrath you hear the gnashing of teeth and a screech next to your ear. Elerinn does too and feels the leathery wings flapping on his head and the large furry body. Both are misses.
Cadmar you feel a prick in your pouch. It pokes into you slightly. In the pouch you realize is the splinter.
Garrard, Ac: 17, Hp: 12 d2=2 d20+3=4 Friday August 8th, 2003 2:38:19 AM
Garrard takes a swing with his scimitar as his companions are assaulted.
(50% miss chance, rolling a d2 to see if the attack is effective, a 1 will miss: 2. A roll to hit, AC:4.
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 d100=82 Friday August 8th, 2003 7:36:15 AM
Lorth listens intently and swings when he thinks he hears the rush of wings... (50% = 82,
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 d100=82 d20+4=12 d8+2=4 Friday August 8th, 2003 7:38:31 AM
(OOC: Sorry I hit the wrong button :( ) (Anyway 50% = 82, Hit AC:12+1WF=13, DM: 4)
Cadmar AC16 HP15(20) Saturday August 9th, 2003 2:27:17 AM
"The splinter! I have totally forgotten about it!"
The ranger takes the chip of wood out with his free hand. He holds it in his palm, afraid to loose the grip, knowing that it can be easily lost in the darkness. Wondering if he can figure out which way it is pointing in the dark, he concentrates on doing just that. If he is successful, he will follow the way it is pointing while calling out to others so that they can do that too.
Elerinn d20-2=16 d100=65 d4-2=1 Sunday August 10th, 2003 7:17:55 AM
Elerinn, helpless as he is in this darkness, searches for his small dagger stuck between his belt. He tries to hit the creature that just attacked him and manages to slash the dagger in the direction where the thing just attacked him.
He doesn't know for sure if it is still there, however, and he swings the dagger rather weak. Knowing that he was lucky the creature didn't hit him, he calls out for help: "One of them is here with me! I'm in the cart!"
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+4=19 d100=81 d6=4 Sunday August 10th, 2003 2:49:51 PM
Wynn hears Cadmar's cry of alarm and the shrieking of the creatures flying in and out of the cylinder of darkness. The half-elf feels much more comfortable in flight than 10 minutes ago when he first took to the air and decides to press home an attack on the creatures.
He hovers, almost motionless between the two pillars and lets loose a single bullet with his sling as one of the creatures emerges from the darkness [Hit AC19 for 4 dmg - beat the 20% miss chance)
Wynn calls out to the party "I can see them from out here, there seem to be two of them!"
The bard closes the gap between himself and the party, ready to dodge the first creature that attacks him (Effective AC=19)
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d100=24 Sunday August 10th, 2003 10:22:46 PM
Andrath swings at the creature that squeeks beside his ear, but misses in the darkness. [OOC: miss chance of 24] He listens closely to get ready to swing again when the creatures attack again.
Kedarn (AC 16 (ac 13 w/o dex) HP 17) d100=7 Monday August 11th, 2003 1:15:01 AM
Kedarn will draw his longsword and swing at the flying creature when it is near him (miss).
Attracting Attention [DM Matt] d20=4 d20=13 d8=6 d20=19 d8=5 d8=7 d20+5=6 d20+5=19 d8+4=8 d8+4=5 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 6:32:14 AM
Cadmar takes splinter in hand and concentrates. It points strangely enough, not up at the bats, but down in front of him. He squats down a little and gets a facefull of big mushroom. Feeling for the point to see where it's pointing, it seems that the splinter indeed points at a big mushroom.
Garrard, Lorth, Kedern and Andrath all chop into the air and miss connecting with the beasts.
Wynn misses with his bolt but definitely sees that they are bats. He DID get its attention tho. It widens its arch of flight and in the distance, Wynn hears the curdling screech of the bat. It flies faster ever toward him. Faster and faster til it's upon him and snaps at his throat. Wynn bobs and lunges out of the way just in time and it whooshes past. [You may strike it or flee or whatever, Wynn.]
Kedern is not so lucky. He feels a painful bite in his shoulder. [8 damage]
Elerinn Tuesday August 12th, 2003 7:15:40 AM
Elerinn sights as he realizes the bat has left him for another target, but he feels really bad about the fact that he can't see anything, can't get out of the cart and, therefore, isn't able to help anyone.
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 d100=7 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 7:35:40 AM
Lorth waits for the creature to make another pass, when it does he swings at it again. He stays right near the cart, near Elerinn.
(Missed with the 50% miss chance.)
Garrard d2=1 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 12:45:01 PM
Garrard awaits the next pass, and levies an attack when it occurs.
(d2 for darkness, 1 will miss - 1.)
Cadmar AC16 HP15(20) d20+7=19 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 2:10:12 PM
The ranger hears the cry of Elerinn and clenches his fists, unable to do anything about the invisible attackers. Then the splinter urges him to a mushroom. His hands fumble around it, looking for anything at all [Search 19]. If he finds anything of interest he will call out to the others reporting his discovery.
If nothing can be found aside from the mushroom itself Cadmar will grab a small chunk of it and taste it.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+4=21 d100=98 d4=4 d4=3 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 6:05:26 PM
Wynn evades the on-rushing bat and spins to his left to face it as it goes by. Without thinking he reaches into his belt pouch and extracts another bullet. The sling cuts through the air in a blur and the bullet is sent on its way towards the bat [Hit AC 21 for 4 dmg; beat 20% miss chance w/ 98; ignore second d4 roll].
Following his shot the bard spins again and will dodge the first bat to approach him (Effective AC=19).
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d100=17 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 10:03:23 PM
Unable to see what is going on, Andrath hears Kedarn call out in pain, and swings wildly at the flying creature that he assumes attacked the cleric. His swing goes wide [OOC: rolled 17% for the concealment, a miss.]
Kedarn (AC 16 (ac 13 w/o dex) HP 9/17) d8+1=7 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 6:08:32 AM
Kedarn calls out in pain "Yeowwww! that hurts." Kedarn pulls out a potion of CLW and drinks it. (heals 7 hp)
Mmmmmmmmmmmmm [DM Matt] d20=9 d20+5=16 d20+5=19 d8=3 d100=39 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 5:17:31 PM
Cadmar finds nothing save the mushroom so he takes a big bite of it. The mushroom definitely has tastes of bat dung on it but the mushroom itself is very sweet. It has no effect however.
The bat lets out a screeh as Wynn's bullet goes through its wing. It reels and swoops and heads straight at Wynn again but flies right over his head.
The other one dives again toward the people on the pillar. This time Garrard hears the screech up close but it seems the bat simply misjudged his approach and flies into him. A sort of nocturnal headbutt, but no damage.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+4=9 d100=94 d4=2 d4=4 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 6:10:08 PM
Wynn watches with satisfaction as his bullet pierces the bat's wing and readies another bullet. As the turns to attack again, the bard releases another shot [hit AC 9 for 2 dmg].
Wynn braces for the bat's next strike and prepares to dodge [Effective AC=19]. If given the time he will reloop the sling on his belt and ready his longsword.
Garrard d100=26 d20+3=16 d6+2=3 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 6:43:01 PM
Garrard throws another chopping blow at the beast, hoping he can guess its location from the impact.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d100=75 d20+3=9 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 11:13:43 PM
Totally in the dark as to what is going on, since no-one seems to be communicating possible solutions, Andrath continues to swing at the attacking bat-creatures. [OOC: Beat the 50% concealment roll, but only hit AC9, so a miss] He calls out, "Has anyone thought of anything? Wynn, what can you see from outside? Cadmar, don't you have some piece of wood that can help us get out of here? What is going on?"
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 d100=23 Thursday August 14th, 2003 9:24:33 AM
Lorth again attempts to attack the creature as it goes flying by... (Missed: 23%)
Elerinn Thursday August 14th, 2003 10:11:40 AM
Elerinn, hearing Andrath's somewhat desperate call, feels even more helpless. The bat didn't attack Elerinn for a second time, so he can't try to hit it anymore. He considers calling something back to Andrath, but decides not to, for right now, he doesn't have any clue what to do either.
Cadmar Thursday August 14th, 2003 12:18:41 PM
"Bleugh! Ptooie!"
"The splinter is pointing to one of the mushrooms over here, but I can't find any exit from this blasted place!"
The ranger drops to all fours and starts to look for a trapdoor or entry, trying to figure out where precisely the splinter is pointing. Is it the base of the mushroom? If so, he will uproot it and check if it points to the place on the ground or the mushroom.
Let There Be... [DM Matt] d20+5=7 Friday August 15th, 2003 6:23:40 PM
Cadmar feels around the splinters point and again it points to the mushroom, not at the floor, but at the mushroom itself. Just to be sure he grabs hold of the stalk and yanks. It won't budge. He tries again. Nothing. Frantically he pulls and tugs and finally starts slicing at it. And *****POP***** the stalk break and the mushroom falls to the ground with a thud. Cadmar looks down at the cap AND can SEE IT!!!!! A five foot "hole" of light has opened up in Cadmar's square. [No one else can see this as everyone else is still in the dark.] Overhead Cadmar can see the bat recircling. The other bat misses Wynn, but Wynn can now see a shaft of light in the center or the blackness pointing straight up.
Garrard d100=71 d20+3=13 Friday August 15th, 2003 6:50:48 PM
Garrard calls back to Andrath, "If I had an idea, I'd be implementing it."
With that he takes another hack at the critters.
(miss chance, 71%, AC: 13)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+3=23 d20+3=4 d8+2=4 d100=98 Friday August 15th, 2003 9:19:18 PM
Wynn withdraws his longsword from its scabbard. The leather wrap has worn to fit the shape of his hand and rests comfortably and secure in the bards grasp. Two leather strips hang down from the bottom of the pommel.
Wynn flies closer to the cylinder of darkness engulfing the pillar and attacks the first bat to venture within his range. He then dodges any returned aggression from that same bat [Effective AC = 19].
[Hit AC 23(natural 20),threat only, for 4 dmg, beat miss chance of 20%]
Wynn notices the new source of light from the pillar and calls out, "Whatever you did, its working! Do it again! I see light coming from the pillar you are on."
Kedarn Saturday August 16th, 2003 2:19:27 AM
Kedarn will carfully move over towards Cadmar. "Cadmar do you need any help? Are you okay I just heard a loud thud." asks Kedarn
Cadmar Saturday August 16th, 2003 2:02:46 PM
The ranger instinctively closes his eyes. After such long period of total darkness even faint illumination is blinding.
After winking tears out of his eyes, Cadmar finally knows what is going on. Or at least so he thinks.
"I have toppled one of the mushrooms and the darkness dispersed! I think the mushrooms are causing it! Hack at the mushrooms!"
With that, he grips his scimitar firmly and starts to slash at plants, being extra careful not to hit one of his companions by mistake.
If extra light is created, he will try to make a zone of light 20 ft in diameter and call for everyone to group there.
If the tactics doesn't work, he will communicate that to others with dismay.
Elerinn Sunday August 17th, 2003 5:26:07 PM
Elerinn is glad that Cadmar has found a possible solution to their current problems, but realizes that he won't be able to help much, because he is about as tall as the mushrooms themselves. Therefore, he decides to stay in the cart and hopes that Cadmar's solution will bring some good.
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 Monday August 18th, 2003 7:31:55 AM
Lorth hearing Cadmar's explaination, feels around for the closest large mushroom and attempts to bash it to bits.
Kill The Shrooms [DM Matt] d6=3 d20+5=17 d100=23 d6=2 d20+5=21 d8+4=5 Monday August 18th, 2003 6:27:25 PM
Wynn again slices into the bat and it screeches again. It flies away from him and back into the easier targetted group. [Attack of Opportunity for Wynn] It flies straight into the darkness and right by Kedern's ear. He realizes it was going pretty fast and could have hurt him a lot had it hit.
The other bat changes places and comes out of the light going for Wynn. It does a good flyby maneuver and perfectly encircles Wynn biting him on the back of his non-weapon arm for 5 damage.
Cadmar and Lorth each easily find more mushrooms and begin bashing them to bits. Sometimes they miss, sometimes they hit and just plain slicing through them works too. In both of their squares, the darkness immediately vanishes leaving two more five foot squares of light from the lantern.
Wynn sees two more streaks of light shoot up through the darkness.
Garrard, Ac: 17: hp: 12 Monday August 18th, 2003 7:21:27 PM
Garrard follows the idea, and begins hacking the nearest mushroom apart.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d100=17 Monday August 18th, 2003 9:48:40 PM
Wading through the bat guano, Andrath slashes at the mushrooms as well. He squints his eyes, to try to not be too blinded as the light appears. If any bats get near enough for an attack, Andrath will swing at the nearby bat. However, the bright light distracts him enough for him to miss. [OOC: Miss chance of 17]
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 9/14) d20+3=20 d8+2=7 d20+3=7 d100=40 Monday August 18th, 2003 10:55:48 PM
Swinging vigorously at the retreating bat, Wynn feels his blade cut deep. [Atk. of Opp. Hit AC 20, for 7 DMG]
Unaware of the second bat encircling him, the bard is surprised by the sharp pain of it's teeth penetrating his left forearm. He swings wildly at the creature, as it flys off.
Wynn takes evasive action against any further aggression from the bat.
[Effective AC=19]
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 Tuesday August 19th, 2003 7:33:56 AM
Lorth reaches over to help Elerinn out of the cart. "Elerinn, I'm going to put you down inside the lighted area I just created. Why don't you reach just outside the lighted area and see if you can cut down some more mushrooms, to make it bigger. I'll stand over you and guard us from the attackers." Lorth takes up a defensive stance when/if he gets Elerinn out of the cart.
Elerinn Tuesday August 19th, 2003 9:12:36 AM
Elerinn is glad he can finally help creating some light and grabs his dagger. He tries first if he can stand up normally here, and if he can, he begins hacking at the surrounding mushrooms.
Cadmar (5dam) Tuesday August 19th, 2003 1:41:17 PM
The ranger cries: "Let us coordinate our work! Let's make one large opening in the shroud of darkness!"
While hacking he does his best to move in the direction from which he hears the voices of his companions, hoping to join the small pillars of light into one large hole in the aura of blackness.
Kedarn Tuesday August 19th, 2003 6:29:59 PM
Kedarn moves over near the others and will then start to hack at the mushrooms.
I'll Take Big Bat in the Center Square! [DM Matt] d8=7 d8=5 d20+5=7 d20+5=16 d8+4=8 Tuesday August 19th, 2003 8:03:53 PM
Everyone starts hacking away at the mushrooms. They are somewhat brittle so it is easy work. Even Elerinn manages to hack one up in the dark. With Cadmar's suggestion you all start at the mushrooms in the center and clear a nice area which is now all lit with your lantern.
The bat circles overhead. You can see the blood red in his eyes and the thick dark fur that stands on its back. It dives at Kedern but its trajectory is off and it flies by hitting nothing. Suddenly, the other one comes streaking low out of the darkness and gouges Elerinn in the throat with its fangs. [8 damage] It clearly liked that snack.
[Wynn you get another Attack of opportunity as that last bat was yours. BTW there is now no more darkness concealment for anyone.]
During all the excitement Cadmar feels the poke of the thorn in his other hand. It still points down at the original mushroom he decapitated.
Garrard, Ac: 17, Hp: 12 d8+5=10 Tuesday August 19th, 2003 8:10:55 PM
Seeing Elerinn hit, Garrard drops his scimitar on its lanyard, draws his wand, and taps Elerinn with the wand of healing.
(10hp healing)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 9/14) d20+3=12 Tuesday August 19th, 2003 9:07:21 PM
Wynn swings at the retreating bat but fails to connect [Hit AC 12]. The growing source of light begins to reveal the location of his friends and Wynn flies over to provide more direct support to the party. He is careful to watch for any attacking bats and dodges the first bat to attack him [Effective AC=19].
Andrath (AC 17, 16 hp) d20+3=7 Tuesday August 19th, 2003 10:05:35 PM
Andrath swings wildly at the bat that attacked Elerinn, but slips on the bat guano, and misses. [OOC: Hit AC7, clearly a miss.]
He makes his way to the pillar of light, and asks Cadmar, "What does that piece of wood point out for you right now?"
Lorth AC 15, HP 26 d20+5=18 d8+2=10 Wednesday August 20th, 2003 9:25:25 AM
Lorth sees the bat gouge Elerinn, disappointed with his guarding ability he swings at the bat when it comes within reach. (Hit AC: 18, Damage: 10)
Elerinn d4+1=3 Wednesday August 20th, 2003 12:25:24 PM
When the enraged bat slashes the small gnome's throat open, Elerinn screams in pain and looks up to see if the beast attacks again. He thanks Garrard, who uses his wand to heal the wounds on his neck and gets ready to fire a spell at the creature if it decides to attack on of the group again.
(OOC: Magic Missile for 3 damage)
Cadmar AC15 HP15(20) - 5subd Wednesday August 20th, 2003 4:09:06 PM
As the ranger replies to Andrath some surprise can be heard in his voice. "The splinter still points to the original mushroom! I do not understand!..." The ranger points out the plant in question for all to see. "Its the one with a bite mark on it!"
Cadmar sheaths his scimitar and puts his shield on his back [two move actions]. His hand moves to his bow and he starts to watch the aerial attackers, calculating the distance.
Cadmar Wednesday August 20th, 2003 4:09:54 PM
[Errata: damage is real, not subdual. Got confused with the Tapestry. Sorry.]
Scaredy Bat! [DM Matt] Thursday August 21st, 2003 5:51:02 AM
You slice into the bat as it tries to retreat and it's wing is shred. It flies lopsided and crashes headlong into a slalagmite and falls to the ground. The other circles back overhead then flies up away from you. The bat on the ground shrieks in pain.
It's red eyes bulge and its mouth froths, its jaws snapping violently in your direction.
Lorth Thursday August 21st, 2003 7:41:29 AM
(OOC: If the wounded bat is lying up here with us.)
Lorth approaches the wounded bat and finishes it off. He then checks on Elerinn and goes to join Cadmar.
Andrath d20+10=13 d20+14=30 Thursday August 21st, 2003 8:23:58 AM
Andrath watches Lorth finish off the crippled bat and then turns his attention to the mushroom and the area immediately around it. He clears away as much of the bat guano and mushroom remains as possible and searches the area and the mushroom for anything unusual. He also specifically keeps his senses attuned to the presence of any hidden doors or passageways [OOC Search=13, Spot=30]
"Well, if the sliver points here, then here's where we should look" he mutters as he works. The bat guano makes the job distinctly unpleasant.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday August 21st, 2003 8:28:31 AM
Wynn watches the second bat fly away and floats down to join his companions. "I'm glad to see that everyone is all right". Wynn wipes the blood from his longsword on the fleshy part of a dismantled mushroom before sliding it into his scabbard. "Have you found anything down there?" he asks of Andrath.
Garrard Thursday August 21st, 2003 12:53:32 PM
Garrard kneels by the bat for a moment, offering a quiet prayer to Mother Wold before standing up and beginning to examine the mushrooms.
(not sure what the relevant check is here.)
Cadmar AC15 HP15(20) Thursday August 21st, 2003 3:49:58 PM
"Good Domi, that was unpleasant." The ranger wipes his forehead with his hand and immediately starts to regret it, remembering only too late what it is covered with.
"Is everyone all right? I'm slightly wounded, but for a moment I can go on without healing."
While others examine the mushroom Cadmar tries to get the group together, making sure everyone and all equipment is gathered inside the cleared area.
Darkshrooms and Stalagmites
That's much better! [DM Matt] d20=10 Friday August 22nd, 2003 7:37:24 AM
Cadmar manages to wipe off the excess blood, guano, and mushroom off of his gloves and onto his face. His gloves look MUCH cleaner now!
Andrath gets down and dirty! He kinds the stalk of the mushroom which ends in a thick and wide, flat base. Nothing else.
Garrard, these mushrooms are pretty alien to you. Although you can tell that the large ones are quite old and they actually grow OUT of the guano. How they got their darkness quality, you have no idea. There are many small versions of these just starting all around.
Lorth Friday August 22nd, 2003 8:35:15 AM
Lorth keeps watch on the surrounding area while his friends try to figure this puzzle.
Garrard Friday August 22nd, 2003 12:36:39 PM
Garrard aids the search of whomever continues.
(+2 to skill check).
Andrath Friday August 22nd, 2003 1:28:20 PM "Well, that can't be right" thinks the elf, "either that splinter is misguided, or I'm going blind".
"Let me have another look, I'll try to be more thorough this time", Andrath moves forward and begins a slow deliberate search of the mushroom and its immediate surroundings [OOC taking 20, Search=30]
Wynn Brightsong d20+2=21 Friday August 22nd, 2003 1:33:44 PM
Wynn keeps an eye open for the return of the bat or any other danger as Andrath and Garrard search again for clues. [Spot=21]
If they fail to discover anything, Wynn will suggest that they uproot the mushroom and look beneath it. He will also recommend dismantling the fungi if the splinter continues to point at it.
If Andrath and Garrard find something Wynn will commend their diligence and crowd in to see what they have found.
Cadmar Friday August 22nd, 2003 3:13:51 PM
"Andrath, maybe there is nothing else for you to see but the mushroom itself? I think Wynn has a good idea. If you can't find anything lets cut the mushroom open."
While others are doing their best to search the location the ranger moves around a little bit with the splinter on the palm of his hand, rising it up and then lowering to the level of the goo, trying to discern with as much accuracy as possible where exactly is the thing pointing. Is it some specific part of the mushroom?
Once he is done with that he tries to make it back to the place where the party appeared and checks if there is anything unusual there. If the stalagmites can be seen he will examine them too.
Elerinn Sunday August 24th, 2003 6:01:05 PM
Elerinn notices that the mushroom is already been examined, as is the ground beneath it. He decides to watch out for any more hostile bats. His mind wonders off for a moment, however, the bat's attack feels already distant.
Elerinn has a faint feeling that the last couple of weeks where not real. But when he looks at his newfound companions and thinks of the one they lost, he realizes that it is more real than anything that has ever happened in his life.
Kedarn Monday August 25th, 2003 6:31:43 PM
"Does anyone need any healing right now or is everyone ok?" Kedarn asks the others.
Excuse me [DM Matt] Monday August 25th, 2003 7:24:44 PM
Cadmar inadvertantly lets out a belch and a small cloud of darkness forms in front of his face.
Searching the area under the goo, just gets everyone's hands completely covered in bat guano. The splinter is without a doubt pointing to the mushroom.
Doing an autopsy on the mushroom reveals to Garrard that it has a different internal structure than other mushrooms he's seen. Especially in how it radiates darkness. From now on Garrard can automatically identify these and has a Survival chance or knowing how to continue to grow them as well. Everyone else has a survival chance just to identify them.
After the mushroom is thoroughly sliced, the splinter moves and points to the next nearest mushroom which is still intact. There is no doubt of that. It then mysteriously then points to one of the stalagmites.
Wynn Brightsong Monday August 25th, 2003 11:34:31 PM
Wynn accepts Kedarn's offer of medical aid and then joins his colleagues in the dissection of the mushroom. He is truly puzzled when they find little in the way of a key or other physical puzzle piece. "Perhaps it is a mental puzzle that we are meant to solve" he offers, "and our knowledge that these mushrooms radiate darkness is the first key?"
"Perhaps we should investigate the makeup of these stalagmites. I can probably fly to the top of one but the effect of this potion will soon wear off."
Wynn waits for further direction from the others.
Cadmar (5dam) Tuesday August 26th, 2003 12:44:10 AM
"Last time I'm eating mushrooms uncooked."
"I think the door wants us to do some housecleaning for it. Let's remove all the mushrooms from the area and see what happens, how about that?"
The ranger rolls up his sleeves and starts to hack at the plants until not a single spot remains covered by the shroud of darkness. Then he takes a good look around.
Lorth Tuesday August 26th, 2003 7:21:05 AM
Lorth is at a losss for answers. He keeps a lookout for attackers and helps clear mushrooms when Cadmar suggests it.
Garrard Tuesday August 26th, 2003 1:13:29 PM
Garrard offers Cadmar a potion of cure light wounds, saying, "Need to stay healthy in unknown territory. I have several, so feel free to drink this."
(d8+3 healing)
Elerinn Tuesday August 26th, 2003 2:30:57 PM
Elerinn agrees with Wynn and says: "I think your right, these mushrooms don't radiate darkness for no reason. But what reason...I honestly have no clue." He looks at the stalagmite the splinter is pointing at and says: "Perhaps we should investigate that one some more?"
Andrath d20+10=22 Tuesday August 26th, 2003 3:08:52 PM
Andrath calls out to Wynn, "Can you carry me over to that stalagmite? I want to have a closer look at it."
Assuming Wynn will oblige, Andrath drops his backpack on the wagon, to make himself lighter, and when Wynn carries him over, will take his time and make a careful search of the stalagmite. [Take 20 on the search, if he has time, for a total of 30. If Wynn doesn't think he has enough flying time left, then Andrath will carry out a regular search with a search check of 22.]
A Mushroom key? [DM Matt] Tuesday August 26th, 2003 7:11:31 PM
The splinter stubbornly points back to the mushroom. The small mushrooms come out easy. After hacking at a few of the big ones, others find that they pop right out of the muck with some tugging and can just be covered to conceal their darkness.
Once some mushrooms are covered and stowed, the splinter then points back at the nearest stalagmite. Then it points out into the darkness. Wynn notices that this was the same direction as the adjacent pillar he saw. Cadmar hands the splinter off to Wynn to confirm this thought while he goes to clear mushrooms. The splinter then points off to the right of where it was pointing. Theoretically if there were five pillars in a pentagram shape, this new direction would be the center.
Slicing mushrooms around the perimeter is pretty easy work, but also very slippery. A Reflex Save DC 15 for both Cadmar and Lorth.
Andrath and Wynn see that the stalagmites look to be actual rock formations and seem pretty solid. There are no secret doors or compartments, nor do they glow or anything.
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday August 26th, 2003 10:06:41 PM
Wynn flies Andrath to the nearest stalagmite and assists the rogue in examining the formation. As the splinter turns yet again he calls out for another rope and offers to secure a line to what he guesses must be the central pillar.
[OOC by my calculations Wynn has no more than 10 minutes of flying left]
Cadmar (5dam) d20+3=4 Wednesday August 27th, 2003 1:44:15 AM
"Good idea, Garrard. But since we are not in a hurry maybe we should use the wand? The wands are cheaper and the potions are more versatile, so we might want to save them for emergencies. Can someone hit me with a bit of healing from the wand?"
Just after he has said that there is a cry and a loud splash as Cadmar loses his footing [Ref 4].
Lorth d20+4=20 Wednesday August 27th, 2003 7:20:42 AM
Lorth busily clears the mushrooms. (Reflex: 20)
Elerinn Wednesday August 27th, 2003 2:41:53 PM
Elerinn watches the splinter's wild movement. He wonders why the splinter points in the centre of the pillars, but not much can surprize him after the last couple of minutes.
When Cadmar falls, Elerinn impulsively shrieks and realizes that he already looks somewhat weakened.
Garrard d8+5=7 Wednesday August 27th, 2003 3:05:44 PM
Garrard tucks the potion back into his belt, and taps Cadmar with the healing wand just before he goes over.
(7pts healed.)
Watch that first step [DM Matt] Wednesday August 27th, 2003 8:50:09 PM
"Can someone hit me with a bit of healing from the wand?" says Cadmar in the darkness of slicing mushrooms.
Garrard obliges and walks over to Cadmar's area but doesn't find him. Instead he hears a increasingly distant "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"
Cadmar feet met the slippery ground and his momentum faliled him right over the side. He falls and cannot grab onto anything. There is nothing around to grab onto and he does not see ground. The falling feeling is unnerving and he closes his eyes.
He opens them again and he is in a cage. hanging from a ceiling. Around him many other cages stretch on around him. Within each is a strange creature of unknown origin, each making strange noises. Within his head he hears taunts and jabs and a commanding psychotic voice intoning "Worship him and Obey!"
Meanwhile Wynn floats off to what he thinks might be a "Central pillar" but finds that within the cavern there are five pillkars in the shape of a pentagram. In the center of them is...well, nothing. This is the same formation of all the stalagmites on each pillar. As Wynn hover in the exact center, the splinter points to one of the mushrooms in his pack, then back to the first pillar then to another, then to all of them, then straight down. But he is aware that flight might end really soon.
Andrath Thursday August 28th, 2003 12:25:57 AM
Andrath thanks Wynn for the transport, and goes to retrieve his backpack from the wagon. He takes out his rope, and says, "Wynn, why don't you tie this rope around your waist, and I and a couple of others will hang onto the other end. That way, you can continue to fly until the potion runs out, and then when you fall, we can reel you in. Will that work?"
He tries to figure out exactly what the party is supposed to do with the mushrooms and the pillars. "Are we supposed to plant the mushrooms on every pillar? Is that what the splinter wants us to do?"
Wynn Brightsong Thursday August 28th, 2003 12:36:18 AM
"Excellent idea" Wynn exclaims to Andrath. I will check out the other pillars and see if they have mushrooms on them. If they don't I will plant some of the smaller ones we have uprooted."
Wynn ties off to the rope that Andrath offers and flies in the direction that the splinter indicates. The bard is confused. "What if mushrooms already occur on the other pillars? Then what? Do I uproot them and throw them into the void?" Wynn voices his concerns to the group.
Cadmar (5dam) Thursday August 28th, 2003 2:29:44 AM
The ranger opens his eyes. His head spins, his heart races like a hart on a hunt, and the sound of his own scream is still in his ears. For a moment he thinks he has just woken up from hallucinating after taking a bite of the musroom, but then reality rears its ugly head.
The ranger pats his pockets. The splinter is gone and he wonders if the others managed to find it. They must think he is dead. Not good.
What happened to his possessions? Is his body bruised from the impact of the fall?
Cadmar takes a good look at the room he is in, the cage (how far to the floor? what is it hanging from?), and the surrounding creatures, half heartedly hoping to spot Cassandra hidden somewhere among them.
Just to quiet the voices in his head he starts to repeat verses of poems he has heard during his travels. How did this song of Wynn go?
"O'er the hills and o'er the plains We battled orcs till none remained The gods command and we obey O'er the hills and far away..."
[Should I stop posting until further notice?]
Garrard d20+2=16 Thursday August 28th, 2003 4:05:06 AM
Seeing Cadmar drop out of sight, Garrard bows his head sadly, listening for any sign of the type of impact at the bottom.
(listen: 16)
Lorth Thursday August 28th, 2003 7:44:27 AM
Lorth lies on his belly, to get good traction, and craws to the edge where Cadmar fell off. He looks down to see if he can see the bottom, and screams Cadmar at the top of his lungs, if he can't see the bottom.
Elerinn Thursday August 28th, 2003 2:28:34 PM
Elerinn, when Cadmar slips off the platform, can't believe they are about to lose another one of the group, not so soon. This room's all just an illusion. It must be!
Elerinn tries not to think of Cadmar's possible deadly fall and repeats "...Portals do not speak, portals do not speak, portals do NOT speak..." as some sort of mantra. Luckily, he is distracted by Andrath's possible solution as he is eager to continue the trip through this illusionary world.
Cadmar's Fate [DM Matt] Thursday August 28th, 2003 9:59:47 PM
Cadmar looks around. His possessions are all gone. In fact, he is wearing a simple robe os black and white with rose lining. THe voices echo through his head. He can't shut them out. His possessions are gone. NOne of the surrounding creatures are recognizable. They look unpleased with Cadmar's presence and snap at him. Many entone, "Worship Boydos! Boydos is all! Boydos is everything! All you need is Boydos!" The voices continue...
Poor Lorth looks over the side of the cavern, the drops of sweat from his forehead fall and skirt the edge of the pillar. He can see no bottom. Just darkness. And no Cadmar. His friend, his colleague, his companion lost to the depths of darkness below. Neither he nor Garrard hear a crash or thump is heard however.
Andrath and Wynn experiment withthe mushrooms. Uprooting them is easy enough. But they don't seem to stick to the stalagmites. As Wynn moves about the stalagmites, the splinter changes its pointing to whichever one he is near. Flying out to other pillars gets the same effect. There are darkshrooms on every pillar all growing out of the dung with 5 stalagmites in pentagram formation. There too the splinter points to whichever Wynn is nearest. He relays this info back to Andrath.
Andrath Thursday August 28th, 2003 11:58:53 PM
"So, Wynn, the splinter points to whichever pillar you seem to be nearest. Well now, that makes it all much clearer," Andrath says in a sarcastic tone. "Maybe we all need to get off this pillar, and onto one of the other pillars? I am completely stumped here. You and I have landed on one of the other pillars and searched it, and found nothing, right? So why does the splinter continue to point to the pillars?"
Cadmar (5dam) Friday August 29th, 2003 3:40:18 AM
The ranger sits down, his legs crossed, and sighs. "Well, that's the worst pickle I have been in ever since I started adventuring. Even being wounded by the orcs was not that bad." He rubs the new scar on his forehead. "All I need is Boyd- what am I saying? All I need is a stout drink."
The voices in his head can't be helped, so Cadmar decides that he should give his hands something to do. How far down is the floor? Does the cage have a door? Is there a lock?
[Matt, seems that I have pressed submit twice yesterday. Can you delete one post?]
Wynn Brightsong Friday August 29th, 2003 7:40:33 AM
Wynn feels his ability to fly come to an end and floats down next to Andrath, Garrard, Lorth and Elerinn. "I too am lost my friends". Does the splinter simply point at anything magical? In which case what exactly is magical about the stalagmites?..." Wynn looks to the others for their ideas and notices that one of them is missing "Where is Cadmar?"
Garrard Friday August 29th, 2003 3:05:43 PM
Garrard states quietly, "Cadmar is fallen. I could not hear any sign of his impact, so it must have been very far, or something odd occured."
After a short pause, Garrard speaks again.
"Let us restate what we know about the splinter, the pillars, the mushrooms, and the gulf between. Perhaps if we list the information as a single body, we will be able to escape this place, and find Cassandra."
Elerinn Sunday August 31st, 2003 3:16:23 PM
Elerinn agrees with Garrard, but doesn't state any of the information himself, for he is too worried about forgetting something. Besides that, Cadmar's fall is still on his mind.
Torment [DM Matt] Monday September 1st, 2003 7:54:12 AM
Cadmar examines the cage more thoroughly and sees it has a door although he can't make out any type of lock. He realizes he has no tools with him. Just the robe. So he decides to try and force the door open. He rams into it and it flies open with ease, sending him out the door a bit TOO fast. He grabs the outside of the door at the last minute as it flips back. He looks down. Here too there is no floor. About him the otherbeasts squawk and wriggle in their cages. Above his own cage is a rope tied to the top. It extends up, far far above him.
Back on the pillar, magical tests reveal some strange magic coming from the splinter, the stalagmites, and the pillar itself, as well as the mushrooms.
Cadmar's scream echoes in Elerinn's mind, the last thing Elerinn heard from him. "Aaaaaaaaaaa--" it went, then cut off abruptly, as if Cadmar was snuffed out before falling very fall at all.
Andrath continues to scratch his head. The splinter stops pointing at mushrooms now that you have taken some and put them in your packs. It now points at the stalagmites on your pillar (changing to whichever one its closest to as you move). Wynn is certain that when he flew out, it started pointing to other pillars in the same fashion and once he was ON another pillar, it pointed to the various stalagmites there too.
Kedarn d20+5=9 d20+3=18 Monday September 1st, 2003 9:44:35 AM
Kedarn looks carefully at the stalagmite closest to him. (spot 9, search 18)
****ooc: sorry for missing post RL has been taking a toll on me. 3.5 sheet coming to you later today Matt****
Garrard d20+4=19 Monday September 1st, 2003 1:03:39 PM
Garrard considers for a moment, and then begins the following steps. If anything happens, he immediately stops to analyze and discuss.
He touches a mushroom, and then a stalagmite. He rubs a mushroom, then a stalagmite. He takes a piece of mushroom, and touches it to the stalagmite. He takes a hacked up mushroom chunk about the size of his fist, and tosses it out through the space directly between the five pillars. (hit AC: 19) He takes a hacked up mushroom chunk about the size of his fist, lies down beside Lorth, and drops it through Cadmar's path, watching what happens to it. He then stands up, and asks Lorth's help breaking a piece of one of the stalagmites.
Elerinn Monday September 1st, 2003 5:06:23 PM
Elerinn, remembering Cadmar's screams, realizes now that he had been saved somehow, for his screams suddenly stopped. Concentrating himself on the current matter and states: "Perhaps we are meant to touch several pillars at the same time?"
He realizes that he didn't check on Qamaro, his bird familiar, when he entered this place. Somewhat panicked, he checks of the creature is still around.
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=15 Monday September 1st, 2003 8:18:13 PM
Wynn was confused! The clues didn't add up! He thought back to the strange song of the door. Nothing seemed to make sense. Non-sequitur followed non-sequitur. Pink and black bouncing dwarves? He had never seen a dwarf bounce before. "Surely this must be some kind of illusion" he thought. He closed his eyes and tried to concentrate on those things that were purely physical, the sound of his own pulse as it coursed through his eardrums, and the expansion of his chest with each breath of air. He opens his eyeshoping to see a different reality...
[Will save against illusion DC=15]
Andrath Monday September 1st, 2003 11:09:24 PM
Andrath watches as Garrard tries each of his suggestions in turn, hoping that one of his ideas triggers a positive result. "Do you think that we need to take a piece of these stalagmites, as well?" He tries to break off a chunk of the rock, using his dagger.
Cadmar (5dam) Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 3:06:16 AM
The ranger pulls himself back into the cage and waits until his heart calms down. He looks at the rope his cage is tied to and tries to figure out how hard it would be to climb it. "Too hard for me" - he decides. "Now if I had a wall to brace against it would be a different story..."
Can Cadmar see any walls? If so, are any of the other cages close enough to them so that it would be possible to brace against the wall while climbing the rope?
"Of course, once I get to the ceiling, it might prove that there is nothing there but a hook. I have probably been brought here by this flying mindose. Where is the entrance to this room, I wonder?"
The ranger sits down and puts his hands over his ears. The voices start to get to him. "Must concentrate. First things first. Is there a floor?"
If possible, Cadmar unhinges the door to his cage and drops it down, waiting to see how long it will take for it to impact. If the door doesn't come off, he searches his robe for a button or something similar and drops it instead.
Lorth Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 9:15:59 AM
Lorth helps Garrard break a piece of one of the stalagmites. He doesn't offer any ideas as this is all well beyond him.
Stalagmite + Mushroom = ? [DM Matt] Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 8:18:07 PM
Nothing is found on the stalagmite, nor in, nor inside. It can be chipped at.
Garrard's exercises: As Garrard takes a mushroom out of his pouch, it gets dark around him. Doing a series of covering and uncovering he manages to touch it to the stalagmite and do his tests. Nothing seems to happen. When he hacks it to pieces, the darkness ends. He heaves a piece into the middle of the cavern, further than he can see what happens to it. He hears nothing. Then he goes over to where Cadmar fell and drops a piece. It falls, not very far at all in fact, and just vanishes in thin air.
Elerinn looks for his bird and finds it tucked into a fold in his clothes shivering. It seems very frightened. It says it doesn't like bats.
Wynn concentrates and this blasted place is still here. He stands in the very center and the splinter rotates and points to each stalagmite in turn.
Cadmar thinks....and thinks...and thinks some more. He thinks about walls and how he doesn't see any. He does see that the cages are close enough that he could jump from one to the other perhaps. Then he decides to pull off the door. As he does so a small fish-faced creature sitting in his cage hands him the door, staring at him wide-eyed. Dropping the door (presuming he still does so), Cadmar hears nothing. Above him he hears creaking and grinding. The fish faced thing climbs outside the cage and scurries up the rope.
Wynn Brightsong d20+8=14 Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 10:00:00 PM
Wynn stares at the rotating splinter, and grips it tightly preparing to hurl it into the abyss that has swallowed Cadmar. He thinks better and grips it tighter, remembering how the possessed door had rambled on about using it against the 'flying mindoses' and saving Cassandra.
Discouraged, and confused, Wynn slumps down in the middle of the pentagram formed by the stalagmites. 'Four portals and four keys, to get to the 'flying furball' and rescue Cassandra. That's what it said' mutters Wynn to no one in particular. He rests his arms on his knees and hangs his head.
The half-elf starts to chant, in a low voice, as if it will unlock a memory (Bardic Knowledge=14). It is the song of the door...
Cast out a spell rendered for the light of day, Lost in lights array, I ventured to see as the sound began to play.
What happened to this song we once knew so well, Signed promise for moments caught within the spell, I must have waited all my life for this, tunes of a different age.
Talk to the sunlight caller...
His voice trails off as the meaning of it all elludes him.
Andrath Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 12:31:44 AM
Andrath is even more stumped then before. Always having been an elf of action, this stumbling from silly idea to silly idea, trying to follow the incomprehensible directions from a tiny splinter of wood, was really starting to be frustrating. He started to wonder if they would be trapped in this tower forever. Hopefully, these mushrooms turned out to be edible.
Cadmar (dam5) Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 2:02:22 AM
"Well, there seems to be no other exit from here but the rope. Isn't it true, my fish faced companion?"
The ranger climbs on the top of the cage and puts his hands on the rope judging his chances.
"Not a snowballs chance in Abyss I can climb far up without some help."
Still, something has to be done. Cassandra is in danger.
Cadmar removes his robe and twists it into a short rope. He loops it under his arms and ties it to the rope the cage is suspended from. He is trying to make a knot that will allow him to move up, but will suspend his weight if he ever loses his grip. He takes his time and experiments with different knots until it works the way he wants it to work [take twenty on Use Rope: 21].
Once this task is accomplished he starts to climb up. Sure, there will be falls, but the knot should prevent him from losing height [Cadmar has a Climb modifier of 0].
Lorth Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 9:08:58 AM
"Well perhaps we will get lucky and the door will let something else in, that has a clue about how to move about in here.", Lorth sits and stares up into the darkness.
Elerinn Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 2:41:14 PM
Elerinn, glad that he found his familiar but worried about it's current condition, tries to comfort the creature somewhat, and says that there would be a way out soon. Not quite sure himself, he looks at Wynn singing the strange song. He says "I don't see how this song relates to this" while gesturing all around him. Maybe we should touch those stalagmite's at the same time?"
OOC: Matt, what is our e-mail adress? My 3.5 edition proof character sheet is ready.
Garrard Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 3:39:31 PM
Garrard ponders a bit more, listening to Wynn's remembrance. Turning back to the group he asks, "Does anyone have access to a light spell that could cancel the darkness?"
"The song suggests something here is a key for a portal. The splinter, if giving true information, is pointing out the mushrooms, stalagmites, and pillars as either key or lock or portal."
"Four portals... five pillars. Coming through to here sounds to me like a magical portal. Perhaps each other pillar is a portal, and we just need to get over to another to check it?"
With this he stops and looks back down over the edge.
"For some reason I think we are making this too complicated, and discounting the obvious. Cadmar clearly passed through some sort of either sound masking or transportation magic when he fell. Shall we lower a rope through the effect, and shimmy down it to rejoin him? Might be the better choice if hes wounded or in danger."
Bomp! Bomp! [DM Matt] Thursday September 4th, 2003 6:05:25 AM
Cadmar de-robes and his greeted with catcalls from some and the sounds of chomping teeth and smacking lips from others. He gets on top of the cage and ZOOOOOOOOM! like a master lumberjack he scoots up the rope. The rope goes on...and on...and on... and eventually ends attached to the bottom of another cage. He looks out at the jungle of ropes dangling around him, all colored grey and rose and black and white. The cage above him contains a pair of goggles and a turbin. Cadmar hangs on the bottom of the cage and his robe inadvertently slips out of his hand. It falls down and down and down as Cadmar clings there naked.
Wynn's voice is haunting and echoes across the cavern, lifting your spirits even now in this dark oubliette.
[If you'd really like to hear the song, find a copy of the album "Tales From Topographic Oceans" from the group Yes. The song is the first track, "The Revealing Science of God"]
Suddenly, through the melodic voice of Wynn cuts a new voice in your own minds that scrapes upon the blackboard of your minds. "You! I see you! You are here and now here are you! All bow down! All praise! All devotion to Boydos! Boydos ....IS.....ALLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"
[Make a will save everyone! DC 18]
Kedarn d20+6=23 Thursday September 4th, 2003 6:26:57 AM
Kedarn looks for where the voice is coming from. (will save 23)
Lorth d20+4=9 Thursday September 4th, 2003 7:38:58 AM
Lorth hears the voice and just can't get it out of his head... (OOC: Failed the save, I also need your email DM Matt, my 3.5 is done also.)
Garrard d20+6=10 Thursday September 4th, 2003 12:47:17 PM
Garrard slumps to the ground, the voice filling his mind.
Elerinn d20+4=23 Thursday September 4th, 2003 3:47:23 PM
Elerinn is able to resist the haunting voice, and, like Kedarn, tries to locate the source it's coming from.
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=18 d20+7=22 Thursday September 4th, 2003 6:20:49 PM
Wynn hears the strange song of Boydos begin and struggles to fight off it's effects [Will Save = 18] He then calls upon his own repertoire of songs and begins to sing...
"Eyes right, my jolly field boys, who dwarven axes bear, to teach your foes to yield boys, when dwarven steel they dare! Now fill the glass, for the toast of toasts shall be drunk with the cheer of cheers, hurrah, hurrah, hurrah, hurrah! for the dwarven axes near!"
Wynns voice rings clear and loud through the darkness.
[OOC Bardic Music, Countersong = 22, all those within 30 feet can replace will saves with this save]
Cadmar Friday September 5th, 2003 6:36:00 AM
The ranger looks with desperation at the robe falling down. "Good Domi, good thing it gave way now and not when I was climbing. Still, it is frightful to think that I relied on that knot to support my weight. I just hope Cassandra doesn't see me like this."
Cadmar climbs into the cage over his head and sits down, letting his tired hands rest, but the objects inside draw his curiosity. He picks up the goggles and turns them around in his hands, then places them on his eyes to see if the world looks different though them. Then he moves his attention to the turbin. What is a free standing turbin doing in a middle of a cage suspended on a rope? The situation is getting more and more dreamlike with every minute. "Maybe I have fallen asleep under that tree with strange insects?" he wonders.
How hard to climb (by Cadmar's judgement) are these ropes?
Safe again...for now [DM Matt] Friday September 5th, 2003 6:10:36 PM
Wynn's song drives away the confusion in your mind. Things get eerily quiet in yours heads, in the back of your minds you have an eerie suspicion and feeling that it will be back in full force! Or maybe it hasn't left and is just there....watching and waiting. Either way it isn't something you want to stick around for.
You all return to the things you were saying and doing before. Wynn realizes Elerinn has just said something that he has somewhat thought of before. Garrard stares back down into the abyss.
Cadmar climbs into the cage and realizes that there is nothing suspending it from above. He turns the goggles around and places them on his eyes. He looks out upon a jungle of vines. Literally, there are vines hanging everywhere. With the turbin now on his head, which he actually didn't remember putting on, he jumps out and latches on to the nearest one. Then another. Then another. He flies through the air like Tarzan and lets go of yet another one. The turbin forces itself further down over his head and streches down until it covers his whole body. Cadmar can still see perfectly though. The ends of the cloth form wings and Cadmar flies forward soaring through the ever-denser vines in the jungle. He feels something on his back too. It's the fish faced creature.
Garrard Friday September 5th, 2003 8:29:02 PM
Garrard kneels and looks over the remainder of the group.
"We need a decision, and quickly. Anyone have any additional ideas regarding the pillars, or do we move as a group down a rope, and through the teleportal after Cadmar?"
Cadmar (dam5) Saturday September 6th, 2003 1:51:52 AM
"Aiee! Arrgh!" The ranger panics and struggles violently for a moment, and then goes limp, letting himself be carried like a hare grabbed by an eagle. It is only after a minute or two that he manages to calm down enough to attempt to control the flight somehow. He waves his hands, tries to will himself fly in this or another direction, or pull on different straps of cloth. Finally he turns to the fish faced passenger: "Hey you! Enjoying the flight? What in the blazes is going on around here?!"
Wynn Brightsong (Countersong) d20+7=19 Tuesday September 9th, 2003 9:26:01 PM
Wynn continues his song, unsure of whether the chanting will return.[Countersong=19]
Great priests have hammer and flail boys, Dragoons have sabres bright. The dragon fire's like hell, boys, And the horse like devils fight. But neither light nor heavy horse with thundering giants leer, Can stem the tide of the orc horde's pride, Like when dwarven axes near!
The bard absent mindedly throws bits of mushroom into the void as he sings.
Andrath Tuesday September 9th, 2003 11:38:28 PM
Andrath takes pieces of everything, and puts them all in his pack: mushroom pieces, including spores, pieces of each stalactite on the pillar, a piece of the pillar itself, and even a sample of the (ugh!) bat guano. He hopes that is what was meant by the splinter as it pointed to each of the things in turn.
DM Announcement Wednesday September 10th, 2003 5:58:12 AM
We are on hold until I get all the 3.5 sheets.
Still waiting for Elerinn and Cadmar. If you guys already sent them, please send them again as I must have missed them. Otherwise if you don't have time or don't know how to convert to 3.5, use your fellow Cinnamon players as resources. I'm sure one of them would be glad to help you.
email address:fenrsisulf@juno.com
Marcin OOC Wednesday September 10th, 2003 7:10:27 AM
[Matt, I have sent you new stats for Cadmar on August the 12th. I have sent the same thing today; if for some reason you did not get this mail contact me at kulczmc@auburn.edu]
MDM kent Friday September 12th, 2003 8:59:59 PM Hey Guys and Gals, The only two sheets I need from this game are Elerin, Andrath.
Greg to Kent Saturday September 13th, 2003 1:45:31 AM
I tried to send you a copy of Andrath's sheet last night. Didn't you get it? Also, I have sent a copy to Matt as well.
Kent MDM Sunday September 14th, 2003 9:04:20 AM My mistake Greg, I do indeed have Andrath. I ve been a bit busy and my mind is seeing things. The PCs I am missing are Ellerinn, Cadmar, and Thram.
Marcin OOC Sunday September 14th, 2003 9:56:32 AM
[Matt, did you get the character sheet I sent you? You haven't contacted me so I assumed you did.]
Jasper OOC Sunday September 14th, 2003 4:14:05 PM
Matt, I also send the file and gave you my e-mail adress japser99@hotmail.com to contact me. If you haven't received my sheet, please tell me...
Jasper OOC Tuesday September 16th, 2003 2:38:54 PM
Matt, please tell me if you have received my updated character sheet...
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday September 16th, 2003 6:44:40 PM
Wynn adds another verse to his song as time passes ever so slowly...
The elven bow is strong, boys, The gnomish arm is tough. The dwarf's blow the orc well knows, Is struck by sterling stuff. And when before the enemy Their shining steel appears, Goodbye! goodbye! how they run, how they fly! When dwarven axes near!
Jerry Saturday September 20th, 2003 3:35:00 PM
Ok, as you all know I took over the approval of character sheets for Matt to do him a favor. I've approved all those sheets now except for Jasper's Elerinn. I reviewed his sheet and need for him to make a few corrections and send it to me so I can approve it.
Once Jasper does so, I'll email the sheets to both Matt and Kent at the same time and personally clear ya for your reward.
Jasper, I just tried to email you and it was spit back at me. [grin] I think your box was full. Let me know if you need another copy of the corrected sheet to fix.
Jasper(Elerinn) Monday September 22nd, 2003 11:29:13 AM
Hmmm, my mailbox is almost empty, but please send the email to jvholsteij@antoniuscollege.nl , it will work, most likely.
Jerry Wednesday September 24th, 2003 11:14:43 PM
Jasper your hotmail account just spat back at me again. Do you want to change your address permanently? If so, you need to send me an email from the address you want to use and tell me so via email please. ;)
Thanks bud.
Jerry Wednesday September 24th, 2003 11:17:48 PM
Jasper, I need your corrected character sheet asap. YOu are the only one that's not in!
Matt, go ahead and start up your game. Jasper, you may begin posting WHEN your sheet is in to me and approved. You don't like much. Make the corrections and send. If you don't have my corrections send me an email from a location that I can send it to successfully my friend.
I am now sending it to the address you used above. hope it works.
Jasper Thursday September 25th, 2003 5:08:27 AM
I just send you the e-mail with corrected sheet, from my new and working email adress. I'm sorry for the delay, I will stop using my hotmail account from now.
Cadmar Friday September 26th, 2003 2:04:34 AM
Cadmar watches the maze of vines the wings are carrying him through. Turning to his silent passenger he casually asks: "So, know any good jokes? How about this one: What is the difference between a witch and a hag?"
"About 30 years."
Flashback [DM Matt] Friday September 26th, 2003 5:35:50 AM
"But you know the most important thing you should remember?" says the door of the tower. You collectively shake your heads dumbfounded at the spastic and overly happy door. "You can break these for clues!" With that he spits out a small wooden box wrapped nicely with a fancy ribbon. 'To my friends,' it reads, 'Try not to die.' "In THAT," reminds the door, "are cookies of fortune! Crack one open and it will tell you hints about your current predicament. (Personally I don't understand it...)"
You all immediately snap back to the present situation on top of the pillar in the dark as these memories float through your minds, unsure if they really happened. Confused, you check your packs and sure enough you find the wooden box still tied with ribbon. Shaking it reveals some objects within.
Cadmar squawks twice to the fish-faced creature as he floats through the vines in the jungle. It is a strange sensation for him having a beak and all. He flaps his wings and soars downward, carried on the breeze. He gets a strong smell of mushrooms, but also a hint of guano as well.
Garrard Friday September 26th, 2003 2:04:26 PM
Garrard kneels, unshoulders his pack, and pulls out the box. Fishing inside for a... cookie to break, he says, "Well done, Wynn".
Wynn d20+2=12 d20+7=11 Friday September 26th, 2003 8:35:36 PM
Wynn continues his song, unsure of whether the voice from the tower will once again try to invade their thoughts. He keeps an eye open for any impending danger. [Spot=12, Perform=11]
Eyes right, my jolly field boys, Who dwarven axes bear, To teach your foes to yield boys, When dwarven steel they dare! Now fill the glass, for the toast of toasts Shall be drunk with the cheer of cheers, Hurrah, hurrah, hurrah, hurrah! For the dwarven axes near!
Cadmar Saturday September 27th, 2003 2:38:11 AM
Only after he has tried to speak the ranger realizes the scale of the transformation he has undergone [so, I'm a bird now?]. He circles around, wondering if the next thing to go will be his memories and human mind. The smells that hit his notrils seem to be familiar. The memory of the pillar comes to mind, and Cadmar starts to follow the smells in hope of finding his friends. "They are most likely long gone, but I hope I will be able to find the trail they left..."
Kedarn Sunday September 28th, 2003 7:08:03 AM
Kedarn tries to recall what exactly Cadmar had done right before he left.
Elerinn Sunday September 28th, 2003 6:16:41 PM
Elerinn is confused about the sudden memory, it frightens him in a bit. It feels like someone has changed his past, to create this memory. Nevertheless, he decides to open one of the cookies, for he is anxious to leave this place.
OOC: My apologies to you all, I hold up the game for quite a while. I hope we will be able to get it all rolling again.
Got Milk? [Dm Matt] d4=4 Monday September 29th, 2003 6:09:09 PM
Everyone gathers around Garrard as he finds the the nice wooden box, tied with a fancy dark ribbon. He shakes it finding things inside. Not having many other options, he snaps the ribbon and pops the box open. Inside are four folded cookies, each of a different color. One red, one green, one purple, one blue.
You all stare at them and look at each other until Elerinn breaks under the pressure, grabs the blue one and cracks it open. A magical spark of blue light appears from the center of the cookie. In the air, as if written on an invisible blackboard, the blue light writes,
"The splinter pointed to three different things: (in order) 1) The first key 2) The method for finding exit #2 of 3 3) The method for finding exit #3 of 3"
This lingers in the air for awhile.
Cadmar lands on the grass of the floor and stares up at the sun. The violet rays beat down cold on his wings. Worms crawl around his feet. which he figures he should eat since he's a bird and birds do eat worms. He gobbles up several of them. "Awww what did you eat those for?" says the fish faced creature, "I was gonna eat those." It sniffs and digs a hole in the ground which it sits in. Cadmar sits on a log and rocks back and forth picking bits of worm out of his teeth with his finger.
Kedern recalls Cadmar trotting over toward the edge swinging his sword around before going "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" and leaving...
Wynn Monday September 29th, 2003 7:02:48 PM
Wynn scratches his beard briefly and thinks back to the splinter and its wandering. "As I recall" he says, " the splinter pointed first to one of the mushrooms in my pack, then back to this pillar then to the pillar over there, and then it seemed to go astry, pointing to all the pillars and then straight down." Wynn pauses to make sure he remembered correctly and continues, "Yes, that was the order it happened, but if this mushroom is the key, then what does it unlock?"
Garrard Monday September 29th, 2003 7:28:34 PM
Garrard chuckles.
"We have an obvious teleporter, and key objects."
With this, he picks up a piece of mushroom, and takes a casual hop off the edge of the platform to follow Cadmars example.
Cadmar Tuesday September 30th, 2003 1:20:18 AM
The ranger sits on the rock, savouring the aftertaste of the worm. He does not know if he should laugh or cry.
"Hop on, Salmon, or whatever is your name. I'll try to find my friends" he eventually says. With that, he tries to take to the air again and follow the smells of bats and mushrooms he has noticed before.
Lorth Tuesday September 30th, 2003 8:59:48 AM
Lorth watches all this crazyness and sits down.
Elerinn Tuesday September 30th, 2003 11:30:00 AM
Elerinn passively watches as Garrard jumps off the platform, too surprised to do something. He just watches the others, with a questioning look on his face.
Man overboard [DM Matt] Tuesday September 30th, 2003 5:58:37 PM
Elerinn watches as Garrard, wild-eyed and giddy, jumps and disappears from view over the edge of the pillar. Not a sound is heard. Those that look over, if any do, just see the inky blackness below.
More specifically, Wynn recalls the splinter pointing to the stalagmites ON their pillar second, then it was pointing out to the other pillars third. (since he was out flying and could see them)
Cadmar actually can still smell the mushrooms and guano all around him but sees none. He's been smelling it quite strongly for a little while now. He jumps and tries to fly again but it seems his feathers are starting to molt off. He looks into the hole. "Key objects." says fish-faced Garrard from the hole. Garrard climbs out and hops on Cadmar's back.
Garrard Tuesday September 30th, 2003 6:11:18 PM
Garrard looks down at his mount for a moment, his hands beginning to shake.
"Madness."
With this he looks around, and calls, "Is this the work of fae? I am known to the fae of the Windborne Hills. I am Garrard Talhein."
Wynn d20+4=7 Tuesday September 30th, 2003 8:02:43 PM
Wynn reaches for Garrard just as he drops over the edge, but to no avail. "I cannot believe that we are meant to drop to our deaths" he says to the rest of the group. "There was nothing in the action of the splinter or the song we heard that tells me to cast myself into the abyss!"
Wynn contemplates the mushroom fragments in his hand, and then hands off all but one to Elerinn. "Take these my friend, and if I am successful you and the others can follow!"
Wynn takes the remaining fragment of mushroom and goes over to the stalagmite on their pillar that the splinter first pointed to. He touches the mushroom to the stalagmite and tries to will a portal to appear (will = 7].
Cadmar Wednesday October 1st, 2003 1:34:24 AM
Cadmar was just looking around, trying to notice any landmarks, when the fish-faced creature made an unexpected introduction.
"Garrard?" There is as much surprise as suspicion in Cadmar's voice. "Good Domi, Garrard, you really are worse off than me. I hope this change is reversible. What in the name of goodness happened-"
"-Wait a moment. Is that some kind of trick? Are you really Garrard? Tell me where we found the Claw?"
Lorth Wednesday October 1st, 2003 10:15:53 AM
Lorth looks at his hands and sighs, the strain of insanity is almost to much for him.
Madness likes company [DM Matt] Wednesday October 1st, 2003 5:41:51 PM
"Madness", answers Garrard to Cadmar and starts talking about fae.
The forest around you echoes with noise of creatures, it's flora almost choking. The mushroom smell is still really really strong to Cadmar. (but not to Garrard) A trickle of water comes between the two of you. You start following the trickle and there expands a large natural spring pond which burbles. On a lilypad in the middle is a beautiful and small female creature seemingly made of plant with longflowing green hair which floats on the water in a nice wide pattern.
The earth seems really soft here as Cadmar's foot goes through the earth and seems to get stuck. Garrard notices that his reflection in the pond indeed seems to be fishy.
Wynn places a mushroom on the stalagmite and it does nothing. In this process, he notices again that once in the center, the splinter spins in his hand and one at a time points to ALL of the stalagmites. Everyone else notices this too.
Garrard Wednesday October 1st, 2003 6:05:39 PM
Garrard stands up his his stirrups, and sketches a bow to the seated lady.
"Good day, fair lady. Could we ask your assistance in gaining our bearings?"
With his, Garrard seats himself again, and catches himself idly patting his mounts head.
In an undertone he says, "Sorry Cadmar. We found the Claw in a box hidden within the well outside the witches house."
Wynn Wednesday October 1st, 2003 10:08:33 PM
Wynn watches the splinter again spin and point to all of the other stalagmites. "Perhaps you were right after all Elerinn" he offers. "Lorth, Andrath, come and help us. Let's try to touch each of the stalagmites at the same time with some of the mushroom fragments. Elerinn, can your raven assist us with this task by touching the 5th stalagmite?"
Cadmar Thursday October 2nd, 2003 3:29:39 AM
"All right, you ARE Garrard. Sorry friend, after all that has happened I am more than a little bit paranoid."
Turning to the lady of the pond, the ranger says, going for his most polite tone of voice: "Greetings. I am Cadmar, and this is my friend Garrard. May we please ask your name?"
Out of the corner of his mouth Cadmar whispers: "Garrard, my foot is stuck in something. I hope it is not some kind of weird plant that lures rangers to the trap by growing beautiful ladies from leaves and toothed maws all around them just under the mud."
Kedarn Thursday October 2nd, 2003 6:03:26 AM
"I will do it if you want Wynn?" asks Kedarn. Kedarn then picks up a piece of mushroom and walks over by the 5th stalagmite.
Lorth Thursday October 2nd, 2003 7:57:26 AM
Lorth looks up, "Sure, I'll try anything to get out of here." He grabs a piece of mushroom and heads carefully to a stalagmite.
Elerinn Thursday October 2nd, 2003 5:12:02 PM
Elerinn agrees with Wynn, and is glad that his idea might be the answer to their current problem. He takes a piece of mushrooms and asks if Qamaro can get a small piece in his beak. He asks if someone can take him to one of the stalagmites, for he is still too short to move around savely. When he arrives, he commands the raven to fly to the stalagmite that is left.
That sinking feeling [DM Matt] Thursday October 2nd, 2003 5:27:02 PM
Cadmar's foot wriggles around in the extremely soft earth. He tries to pull it and that causes more of the earth to give way until he completely sinks into the stuff suddenly all the way over his head. It's just like swimming only it's cold earth instead of water. The woman just smiles flirtily at Garrard and shakes her head. She floats on top of the water and takes Garrard by the hand.
The blue light returns briefly to write "Close Enough" in the air. As all of you touch the stalagmites you are briefly blinded by a bright circle of light that appears in the middle of the floor. The brightness dims a bit to a more pleasing level but the hole in the middle of the floor still remains. Inside it swirls with bright mist.
Garrard Thursday October 2nd, 2003 7:27:12 PM
Wincing inwardly at this seeming separation from Cadmar, Garrard smiles at the lady, and says, "May I ask your name?"
Wynn Thursday October 2nd, 2003 7:57:22 PM
"That must be the way to the next part of this puzzle" the bard suggests to the party. "I think we should all step into the hole together and hope that it leads to Cassandra and her protagonist. Perhaps if we can save Cassandra we will also find a way to help Cadmar and Garrard from wherever they have gone"
Wynn checks the splinter to make sure it is pointing at this new portal and then secures it in an inner pocket of his vest. If the splinter and the rest of the party agree, Wynn will step into the hole.
"Does someone have the box of fortune cookies?" he asks. "We cannot forget those!"
Andrath Thursday October 2nd, 2003 11:41:56 PM
Andrath looks suspiciously at the hole that appeared in the pillar floor. "Wynn, are you sure that hole is where we are supposed to go? Oh well, I guess one hole is as good as the next." He moves to follow the bard down the opening.
Cadmar Friday October 3rd, 2003 3:24:14 AM
"!"
A feeling of panic overtakes the ranger. Once again. And quite probably for the last time ever, an unhappy thought passes through his mind.
"I'm going to suffocate!"
The earth is strangely soft and it feels like swimming. Cadmar risks opening his eyes. Then he tries to swim to the surface to catch a breath.
Kedarn Friday October 3rd, 2003 4:39:45 AM
Kedarn will go and retrieve the box of fortune cookies and then follow Wynn and Andrath down the hole.
Defending the Tower
And a thousand thousand slimy things... [DM Matt] Friday October 3rd, 2003 2:31:27 PM
Cadmar struggles and swims through the brown flowy earth until finally he drops through a hole and seems to be in a long and quite high tunnel. Around him wriggle strange grey wormlike creatures. Well they'd be worms if they were straight, but these have curves and angles and multiple heads and tails, each one different and a slightly different tint. Some pass by ignoring him, others come up and look like they are sniffing (despite having no noses.
The woman giggles to Garrard and takes his hand gently and kisses it. She seems to slither around him then takes his other hand and gently urges him forward, which Garrard does. He starts walking across the water with the woman. Her voice sounds like wind, whispering and laughing. She then jumps high into the air with Garrard in tow and both plunge into the water. Garrard finds himself swimming in deep water, bubbles all about him.
The rest of the troop look at the hole squeamishly, then one by one slip into it. As the first member step into it, it's as if the fog lurches somewhat to envelop them and in a poof they are gone...
Each of you emerges a bit befuddled as the mist begins clearing. You are at one end of a very long room with ivory walls and domed ceiling. Shards of bone cover the floor. A door, seemingly in the shape of a black/white/rose/grey-colored tower, stands tall at the other end of the room.
As you take things in, many of the bone shards spring up and form skeletons about the door. These rattle about and chant in a monotone "Boysdos...Boydos...Boydos..."
Suddenly right next to you, images appear. Images of giants carrying huge clubs and trees, which they swing about and thump the ground with. They turn and charge toward the skeletons.
"For the honor of Boydos!" cries the skeletons, "Rally the Tower! You will never take the Tower, Jarl!" The two throngs meet in the middle of the room and collide in a massive war. The giants immediately begin losing to the frenzied skeletons that slice into them this way and that. In the mass of battling images you spot two forms in the center of the room which at first just looked like piles of rubble and refuse. It is Cadmar and Garrard, both fast asleep in the center of the room. The battle rages around them.
They are eighty feet away. The door is 160 feet away. There are seven giants and seven skeletons.
Cadmar Friday October 3rd, 2003 3:46:00 PM
The ranger bites his lip. "Well this is the strangest place I have ever seen. And coming from someone who has travelled Culverwood it is quite something." Cadmar stands very still while the worms sniff about him. After all, who knows, they might be poisonous. Then, step by step, he starts walking down the tunnel, wondering what happened to Garrard, the others, and what is going to happen to him next.
Garrard Friday October 3rd, 2003 6:48:52 PM
Garrard hangs on to what air he already has, and struggles through the water, fighting the weight of his armor and backpack.
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=16 Saturday October 4th, 2003 3:19:28 PM
Wynn reaches into the pocket of his vest to consult the splinter. While he waits for a sign he thinks back to the history of the valley and the role that the 'Tower of Boydos' played in the overthrow of the Jarl [Bardic Knowledge=16].
"Kedarn, can you determine if Cadmar and Garrard are alive, or are they under some enchantment"? The bard then turns to Lorth, "Paladin, are these skeletons evil, or do they simply protect the door from old enemies of us all?"
Kedarn Sunday October 5th, 2003 3:06:49 PM
Kedarn starts to head towards Cadmar and Garrard while avoiding moving into range of an attack from the undead.
Elerinn Monday October 6th, 2003 8:58:18 AM
Elerinn remembers some of the Valley's history and realizes he is, right now, 'witnissing' a important event in the defeat of the oppressing giants. Although the scene confuses him, he says to Wynn: "I think we should try to reach them, my friend!" He eagerly awaits Kedarn's and Lorth's answers.
Lorth Monday October 6th, 2003 12:05:09 PM
Lorth seeing something he can finally almost understand, charges off across the room, attempting to get to Garrard and Cadmar's body so that they don't get trampled.
Andrath d20+2=8 Tuesday October 7th, 2003 12:25:56 AM
Andrath stares hard at the combat going on in the room in front of the party, and tries to see if he can see through the skeletons and the giants. (Disbelieve illusion, Will save of 8, not likely.)
"So, do we think these figures are for real, or just some sort of image? If they are for real, we had better get those two out from underfoot." He starts to move down the hall on Lorth's heels, drawing his sword.
The worms crawl in, The worms crawl out... [DM Matt] d20+5=7 Tuesday October 7th, 2003 7:11:25 AM
Cadmar walks and is sudden swept off his feet as a large worm squirms right between his legs and carries him along with it. Then it suddenly takes an upward angle moving quickly through a small hole so that Cadmar has to lie flat on the worm to keep some scraping his head against the earth.
Garrard swims and struggles and through the bubbles sees the woman again suddenly right in front of him. She gently takes hold of his weapons and drops them. They sink down. She gently strokes his hand and pulls him along gently, smiling quite attractively at him. Strange music seems to play. He seems quite happy with this and the although he's not really breathing, he's not really NOT breathing either. Kind of a state of complete bliss, floating in weightlessness.
Wynn recalls a time when the Jarl attacked the Tower of Boydos but were beaten back by strange worshippers of Boydos called the Mindoses. This looks like one of those battles.
Kedern tries to approach the sleeping pair but then realizes that the skeletons and giants battle ranges all about Garrard and Cadmar and stops before he gets too close.
Lorth and Andrath approach Cadmar and Garrard inside the frucous. They are just in time to see a skeleton slice into the side of a giant sending him sprawling. It's face looks enraged and quite frightening. Then it's maddened gaze fall on the two of you and it jumps forward and swings at Lorth. "Jarl! You have no life here!" it howls, "Therefore Diiiiie!". Luckily it's swing passes in front of Lorth.
Andrath, however notices another skeleton across the room downing a giant and it turns to the sleepers, "Blasphemers!", it shrieks, and starts swinging at the air in rage and starts running toward Cadmar and Garrard.
Andrath and Lorth are 20 feet from Cadmar and Garrard. Kedern stopped at the edge of the battle, 50 feet from the the G&C. Skeleton 2 is charging toward the center (where G&C are). He's 15 feet from them now. Skeleton 1 is attacking Lorth. Skeletons 3-7 are attacking giants. Everyone else is still 80 feet from the center.
Lorth (Full Defense) Tuesday October 7th, 2003 7:45:07 AM
Lorth replies to the skeleton, "We are not the Jarl's troops, we have come only to retrieve our friends." Lorth goes into full defense fighting mode and continues on his way to Cadmar and Garrard. If/when he gets there he tries to kick them awake with his foot.
Elerinn d20+2=9 Tuesday October 7th, 2003 5:06:47 PM
Elerinn waits for a moment when he sees the skeleton turn on Cadmar and Garrard. He tries to observe the chaotic scene closely, trying to discern if all of it is just an illusion.
This is quite hard though, for all things Elerinn witnessed for the last few hours looked very dreamlike. He starts walking towards Cadmar and Garrard, while looking at his nearby companions to follow him.
Garrard Tuesday October 7th, 2003 5:17:53 PM
Garrard finds his control slipping, as they details of his... hallucination pass further and further from his control.
He tries to fight it, saying in Sylvan, "Mother Wold, please see my daughter safe, if I should fall here today."
Wynn Brightsong d20+7=24 Tuesday October 7th, 2003 8:12:05 PM
Wynn recalls the historic battle for the Tower of Boydos and hopes he can dissuade what must be the undead remains of the Jarl's victims from attacking the party.
The Jarl have left this valley green, defeated, dead, their ghosts unseen. Upon Boydos' Tower they spilled much blood, brave souls all lost in hatred's flood. A gallant few stood brave and tall, defending well the tower wall. Much time has passed, the time to rest, your faith unchecked by giant's test.
Wynn's song rings out through the chamber, the acoustics of the hall make his voice resonate with each new note [Perform=24].
He watches for any sign that the skeletons will abandon their blind attack of the party..
Cadmar Wednesday October 8th, 2003 3:12:29 AM
The ranger clings close to the worm. For a while he keeps his eyes shut, but after a moment he dares to open them. He would expect to be afraid, but is not. Too many bizzare things have happened already one after another. With some surprise he realizes that he is actually enjoying the ride.
Kedarn (full defense) Wednesday October 8th, 2003 7:05:13 AM
Kedarn continues to move to Cadmar and Garrard. Kedarn will move as quickly as possible while trying to keep from getting attacked by the undead.
Skellingtons [DM Matt] d20+5=8 d6+2=5 d20+5=13 d8+2=5 d20+15=26 d6+2=6 d20+5=8 d6+2=8 Wednesday October 8th, 2003 7:34:05 AM
The skeleton's attack is not blind actually but rather direct and focused and it's rather eerie how their intensity toward the Jarl and the party is equal.
Lorth discovers this as he tries to move past the skeleton blocking his path. (Attack of Opportunity on Lorth hits AC 8/ 5 damage) His persuer bellows in rage, "Save the tower! Rally!" and chases after him swinging at him again. (Hits AC 13/5 Damage)
Lorth arrives at Cadmar's feet and is very displeased to see another skeleton has beat him there and brings his sword down hard on Cadmar's chest. (Hit AC 26 (sleeping factored in)/6 damasge)
Cadmar's worm feels very warm and cozy although still smells of mushrooms and dung. He is traveling very fast now as the earth parts around him. It is like flying through the ground. Then BAM! the worm smacks against a very hard surface which Cadmar smashes into. There is a definite pain in his chest and Cadmar's eyes fly open. He now sees a skeleton hovering over him screaming and raising his bloodstained sword. Cadmar has a wound in his chest now and UUUUUGH! There are a couple of dung-covered mushrooms on his face! Lorth appears suddenly on his other side and starts to kick at him. [Cadmar still has all his same possessions, armor, and weapons he had when he fell off the pillar including his sword he was using to bash mushrooms which sits loosely in his hand.]
Skeleton 5 and 6 both kill their giants, one of whose head goes rolling off, and they cheer in a shrill unharmonic chord, then their looks turn to the center. Skeleton 7 is actually pummeled apart by one of the Jarl.
As Elerinn makes his way across the floor. (Now 20 feet by Kedern) The bone fragments in front of him spring to life as a whole skeleton and glare at him. "Stop! NO prisoners!" it screams and swings at Elerinn. (HIt AC 8/8 Damage)
Wynn provides the soundtrack to the festivities.
Garrard finds the woman irresistable as he continues to swim towards her. She moves closer to him and kisses him. As she pulls back, she giggles and bubbles float about. Garrard opens his mouth and closes it again. The water flows in and down his throat and out the sides through his gills. He swings his fins and propels himself closer to the woman. He looks down and sees his armor and weapons and possessions float down into the depths as he feels himself now fully a fish.
Garrard d20+6=11 Wednesday October 8th, 2003 2:29:34 PM
Garrard tries to stop swiming, and turns his attention inward.
"This is not real. This is not real. This is not real..."
(Disbelief will save: 11)
Elerinn d20+9=10 Wednesday October 8th, 2003 3:06:14 PM
Elerinn sees the skeleton reforming before him and is surprized how fast the undead creature can react to him. Having the same dream-like feeling as before, Elerinn barely manages to dodge the skeleton's swing and it nearly hits him.
The swing would have probably knocked him out, for the skeleton used all of his strenght for the blow. Instinctively, Elerinn uses the first mean of harming the skeleton that comes to his mind. He is too ocuppied, however, with watching the skeleton's actions closely, that his spell fails.
(Casting defensively: 10, it fails)
Kedarn d20+1=18 2d6(5+4)+3=12 Wednesday October 8th, 2003 6:55:36 PM
Kedarn pulls his holy symbol out, holding it aloft while saying "In Garguls' name begone foul undead!!" as he moves to Cadmar and Garrard.
*** Turn Undead check 18 (turns up to 4HD undead) Turning Damage: 12 HD worth of undead. ***
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) Wednesday October 8th, 2003 9:10:36 PM
Wynn clearly sees how ineffective his attempt to calm the skeletons actually was when one of the undead defenders of the tower slices into Cadmar. He does not wait to see the effects of Kedarn's holy protestations and instead runs to assist the others in arousing and protecting Cadmar and Garrard. He keep an open eye for threatening skeletons and will dodge [effective AC=19] the first skeleton that immediately threatens or blocks his path.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+4=12 d8+3=7 Wednesday October 8th, 2003 11:41:37 PM
Andrath moves alongside Wynn, as the bard tries to waken the two sleeping party members. He tries to keep himself between the bard and the fighting figures. He will only attack if is appears that one of the skeletons, or one of the giants, is moving to attack. [OOC: Hit AC13 for 7 hp damage.]
Cadmar AC17 HP13(20) Thursday October 9th, 2003 1:21:09 AM
After rather pleasant (and weird) dream the ranger has a very ugly awakening. For a moment he thinks the party is still in Culverwood and the camp got attacked. "Wake up! Enemy in camp!" Cadmar scrambles to his feet while readying his shield [move action; ready shield free as part of move action]. Seeing that Garrard is lying defenseless on the ground the ranger steps over him to protect him from attacks [5ft step]. As he does so he feels sharp pain in his chest. Surprised, he drops his scimitar [free action] and puts his fingers in the wound. He does not really think about what he is doing, but the pain goes away [standard action, lay on hands for 4].
Fish Garrard and the Seven Jarl [ DM Matt] d20+5=10 d6+2=7 d20+5=23 d6+2=6 d6=2 d20+5=8 d6+2=8 d20+5=13 d6+2=4 d20+5=20 d6+2=7 Thursday October 9th, 2003 7:17:39 AM
"This is not real! This is not Real!" cries out the fish named Garrard. Garrard becomes very aware of himself at once. He has just woken up, obviously from a very bad dream. His face is dripping with sweat and he is now aware of a lot of noise all around him. The next moment he is shoved and jostled quite bruskly along with the voice of Andrath pleading with him to wake up. He opens his eyes. There is Andrath and a large skeleton (S6) comes into view with a big sword intending him harm. Then sees Cadmar stagger in front of the skeleton trying to block his shot. (Attack on Cadmar Hits AC 10, 7 Damage)
Wynn makes it to Elerinn and Kedern, who is completing a divine call to all that's holy to rid them of these skeletons. And the skeletons are still there....and continue to shout at them as if they too were Jarl.
Elerinn's spell fails and Skeleton 7 roundhouses with his sword and comes down upon him. (hits AC 23, 6 Damage)
S2 continues forward as Cadmar steps to the side. S2 keeps going and runs straight at Andrath swinging. (AC 8, 8 Damage)
S1 continues to swing at Lorth (Hits AC 13, 4 Damage) as does the newly arrived S5 (Hits AC 20, 7 Damage).
As mean as the skeletons look the last of the Jarl that fall look even bigger and meaner. It seems pure willpower has won the day for the skeletons against the Jarl. And Now S3 and S4 too turn and notice you new "giants".
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/19 d20+5=8 d10+2=11 Thursday October 9th, 2003 7:53:37 AM
Lorth takes a 5' step towards Garrard, and attacks skeleton 2 with his warhammer but, his swing goes wide.
(Hit AC: 8 Damage: 11)
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+6=15 d8+3=9 Thursday October 9th, 2003 12:33:20 PM
Andrath shifts around skeleton 2, adroitly dodging the undead's swing, flanking the skeleton with Lorth on the other side. He swings his sword, trying to connect with the standing bones (Hit AC15, for 9 damage).
Garrard - AC: 17, Hp: 12 Thursday October 9th, 2003 1:27:04 PM
Garrard scrambles to his feet, blinking, still muttering, "Not real... not real,... not real?"
The proximity of a weapon wielding skeleton causes him to unsling his shield and slide it on his left arm.
(Two move equiv actions.)
Elerinn - AC: 12, HP: 8 d20+9=14 d20+3=23 Thursday October 9th, 2003 6:51:50 PM
Elerinn feels the skeleton's sword hitting his arm. It leaves a large wound, but Elerinn doesn't feel like shouting for help, not yet. Instead, he tries again to cast one of his spells, still cautiously watching the skeleton.
This time, he succeeds better in concentrating on his spell while trying to defend himself. But at the last moment of finishing his spell, the skeleton before him makes a sudden move. His spell fizzles again. To get out of the skeleton's range, however, he decides to tumble backwards, 20 feet from the skeleton. Feeling somewhat saver now, he carefully watches the skeleton, it's sword now dripping with his blood.
(Concentration check failed, tumble check succeeded. Last round, Elerinn tried to cast a Magic Missile, this round it was a Ray of Frost.)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14) d20+3=4 Friday October 10th, 2003 12:12:02 AM
Wynn steps between Elerinn and the skeleton attacking him and attempts to strike the skeleton with his longsword. He fails to connect [Hit AC=4]and prepares to dodge the same skeleton should it attempt to return the favour [effective AC=19]
"Elerinn, how badly are you wounded?"
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP13(20) d20+1=16 d6=3 Friday October 10th, 2003 12:20:44 AM
The attack of the undead is blocked by Cadmar's shield. The impact almost makes the ranger fall to the ground. Cadmar picks up his scimitar [move action], takes a step towards skeleton flanked by Andrath and Lorth [5ft step], and swings at it. He is paying more attention to defense than to striking his own blows [standard action: attack, expertise for 2, hits AC16 for 3dam].
[If S2 is killed by Andrath Cadmar will instead ready an action to attack the first skeleton to approach him.]
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17) Friday October 10th, 2003 5:10:29 AM
Kedarn moves to protect Garrard and Cadmars' flank, drawing his longsword.
Rallying the troops [DM Matt] d20+5=14 d20+5=23 d20+7=13 d20+5=17 d20+5=24 d20+5=17 d20+5=23 d6+2=5 d6+2=3 d6+2=6 d6+2=8 d6+2=4 d6+2=3 d6+2=8 Friday October 10th, 2003 6:41:20 AM
Andrath and Cadmar both wail on S2 and while it splinters and cracks and looks really hurt, it still stands. Everyone moves into their selected positions and everyone but those two miss. (as shown on the map, if you didn't get a map in your email, LET ME KNOW!!!)
...except for Kedern who is blocked on the way by S1. (Kedern you can make an attack on S1 for this last round if you want....or not if you don't want to)
S1 swings at Kedern. (AC 14/5 damage) S2 swings at Andrath (AC 23/3 damage) S3 flanks with S2 on Andrath (AC 13/6 damage) S4 on Cadmar (AC 17/8 damage) S5 on Lorth (AC 24/4 damage) S6 on Garrard (AC 17/3 damage) S7 on Wynn (AC 23/8 damage)
"You will not live through this, Jarl! The Tower of Boydos stands strong forever!"
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/15 d20+5=12 d8+2=7 Friday October 10th, 2003 7:54:22 AM
Lorth steps back as he takes another rake of a skeleton. He then returns an attack to skeleton 2. (Hit: AC 12 +2 = 14 for flanking with Andrath, Damage: 7)
Garrard - AC: 21 Hp: 9 d20+3=13 d6+2=3 Friday October 10th, 2003 1:30:24 PM
A gleam in his eyes, Garrard shouts out, "The defenders are too strong troops! Fall back! We can negotiate with them for terms of surrender!"
When this fails, Garrard levies a blow at the closest skeleton and backs up five feet, trying to ignore the cut he has received.
(AC: 13, 3pts of damage)
DM Note Friday October 10th, 2003 4:46:52 PM
A Sense Motive check DC 1 will determine that these skeletons, heck, ALL skeletons will not negotiate with the party.
Garrard, are you SURE you want to do nothing? You may take a swat before backing up if you wish.
Wynn Brightsong [AC 18, HP 6/14] d8+1=6 Saturday October 11th, 2003 12:10:48 AM
Wynn staggers back from the force of the skeletons attack. Recahing into his belt pouch he finds a single potion of healing and drinks it [CLW=6 HP]. The warmth of the potion travels rapidly through his body and he readies his sword to re-enter the fray.
Cadmar OOC Saturday October 11th, 2003 2:22:03 AM
[Can I have the map, please? kulczmc@auburn.edu]
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP13(20) d20+3=23 d20+3=12 d6=1 Sunday October 12th, 2003 4:33:26 AM
The ranger dodges the blow of the skeleton again - this time, barely! Muttering a quick prayer of thanks to Domi, he jumps a few steps back [5ft move to SW] flanking one of the skeletons with Lorth. He manages to land a glancing blow on its ribcage [still using expertise +2; hits AC23 (or critically AC12); dam1. If S2 is killed by Lorth before Cadmar acts he will instead swing at S4 and then take the 5ft step].
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17) d20+1=11 d8=1 d20+1=16 d8=3 Sunday October 12th, 2003 3:00:42 PM
(attack for last round: hit ac11, dmg 1)
Kedarn swings his longsword again trying to hit the skeleton (S1). (hit ac 16 dmg 3)
Elerinn d20+3=9 d20+3=11 Sunday October 12th, 2003 7:16:04 PM
Elerinn looks at Wynn defending him, and tries to help him. He tries to tumble again, now trying to get behind the skeleton Wynn's fighting.
He tries to hit the skeleton with his small dagger, but misses.
(OOC: First roll is a tumble check, it fails, second roll is an attack roll, it should be 9, with +2 flanking bonus)
Andrath (AC17, 13/16 hp) d20+10=22 d20+6=12 d8+3=7 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 1:35:16 AM
Andrath winces as the skeleton he is facing manages to breach his defense, and slash the elf.
He moves to flank the nearest skeleton, and swings at the undead. [OOC: I am not certain which skeletons are standing, so I have rolled a tumble check of 22, which will allow Andrath to tumble up to 15' without receiving any attacks of opportunity. He hits AC12 for 7 hp damage.]
Holy Bones! [DM Matt] d20+3=6 d20+3=13 d6+2=4 d20+3=11 d6+2=8 d20+5=10 d20+5=13 d6=6 d20+3=17 d6=2 d20+3=18 d6=1 d6=6 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 2:10:58 AM
Skeleton S2 looks now has even more holes holes in him than usual as parts of his bones have been hacked off. Cadmar manages to plink S2 again (although he cannot flank it with his 5 foot step) and Kedern hits S1. All others miss.
[AC of Skellys is 15, btw]
S1 at Kedern [AC 6] S2 at Cadmar [AC 13/4 Dam] S3 at Andrath [AC 11/8 Dam] S4 at Lorth (flanking)[AC 10] S5 at Lorth (flanking) [AC 13/8 Dam] S6 at Garrard [AC 17/4 Dam] S7 at Wynn [AC 18/3 Dam]
see new map.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17) d20+1=16 d8=8 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 2:32:35 AM
Kedarn swings again at the Skeleton (S1) (hit ac: 16 dmg:8) while calling out "By Gargul return to your slumber skeleton!!!"
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP13(20) d20+1=21 d20+1=19 2d6(1+6)=7 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 2:49:49 AM
The ranger blocks another attack with his shield. His right arm is getting numb. Trying to finish off one of the opponents before he is done in himself Cadmar reaches out with his curved blade and tries to snap skeleton two's spinal column [attack, standard action, expertise+2, hits AC21 for 1dam or critically AC19 for 7dam]. Then he continues tactical withdrawal [5ft step to the SW].
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 12/14) d20+3=7 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 8:02:57 AM
Wynn dodges the attack from S7 (AC effectively 19) and then returns the attack without effect.
"To the door!" he yells to the party, "To the door at the end of the hall! It may be the only way out!"
Wynn starts moving towards the door, dodging S7 if necessary and being careful to avoid the attacks of any other skeletons.
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/15 d20+5=6 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 8:45:59 AM
Lorth blocks both the skeleton's attacks against him.
(I didn't see a new map, but if Lorth can make a 5' step anywhere and not be flanked, he does that. Then he swings at the closest skeleton, going for skeleton 2 if he is in reach.)
(Missed.)
Elerinn d20+3=7 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 2:37:50 PM
Elerinn follows Wynn's advice and decides to follow him. If there are any skeletons who attack him, he tries to tumble past them.
Andrath (AC17, 13/16 hp) d20+6=14 d8+3=11 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 2:38:53 PM
Andrath shifts 5' to flank the nearest standing skeleton (if it is necessary to move to flank), and swings with his longsword [OOC: hit AC 14 for 11 hp damage.]
Garrard - AC: 17, HP: 12 d8+5=12 Tuesday October 14th, 2003 6:27:27 PM
Garrard winces at the second blow lands. With this he drops his scimitar on his lanyard, activates the curative wand on his belt, and grabs his weapon again. As he brings the weapon up, he uses its crossguard to break a seal hanging from the right side of his cloak.
(12hp cured. Two move actions and two free actions.)
(The Seal of Smiting gives all party members a +1 to hit to all party members within one hundred feet for 1 round.)
Skeleton Crew Rnd 4 [DM Matt] d20+3=14 d6+2=8 d20+3=19 d6+2=4 d2=2 d20+3=5 d20+3=17 d6+2=6 d3=2 d20+3=9 d20+3=16 d6+2=5 d6+2=8 d20+3=10 d6+2=5 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 7:53:36 AM
[First of all, this time I want everyone to post their email address they want the map sent to. Secondly, It is your responsibility to remember the +1 bonus you get from Garrard's seal. DOn't forget to add it in!]
Andrath realizes that he cannot move to flank anyone and would take an AoO so he stays where he is and attacks S3.
Kedern Hammers on S3 with a good solid blow that resonates throughout the room. Cadmar too lands a tremendous blow on S2 and shatters the bones to pieces. (Spot check for Cadmar)
S7 slashes at Wynn as he tries to leave the battle. (AC 14/8 Damage) Elerinn manages to find a hole and escapes through it to follow Wynn. They both move around to the right where it seems more clear.
Lorth backs up towards the main fighting group of Andrath, Cadmar, and Garrard and out of flanking's way.
S6 attacks Garrard: (AC 19/4 Damage) S3 attacks Andrath: (AC 5/6 Damage) S7 follows Wynn and sees what his trajectory is. "Stop Jarl! Rally! Don't let the Jarl reach the tower!", it bellows. S4 hears this and rushes to S7's aid, attacking Wynn. (S7 attack on Wynn: AC 9/5 Damage; S4 attack on Wynn: AC 16/8 Damage)
S5 closes back up with Lorth and swings wildly. (AC 10/5 Damage) S1 staggers from Kedern's impact and backs up 10 feet, a slight look of fear in his hallow eyes and looking for his friends to back him up.
[I'm sending a map now but in case you don't get it, here are the current match-ups: Garrard - S6 Andrath & Cadmar - S3 Kedern - no one (S1 just backed up) Lorth - S5 Wynn - S4 & S7 (Elerinn is a 5 foot step from either)
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/15 d20+5=24 d8+2=10 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 8:03:46 AM
Lorth stands his ground, blocking yet another round of attacks from the skeleton. He then swings mightily, (AC: 24 Damage: 10 blunt) impacting skeleton 5.
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 12/14) d20+4=18 d8+2=8 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 8:34:55 AM
Wynn dodges and weaves to avoid the attack of S7 and again when attacked by S4. Now he is convinced that he heads in the right direction..."To the door, Hurry, let us face them with the tower to our back!
Wynn sidesteps the second attack of S7 and swings down on S4 with all his might. [Hit AC 18 for 8 hp dmg]The bard dodges any return strike from S4 and continues to move towards the tower door, careful to not be flanked in the process.
Elerinn d20+3=15 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 2:15:20 PM
Elerinn continues to follow Wynn, this time succeeding to tumble past the skeletons. He looks back at the others, and hopes they will also follow Wynn's example.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17) d20+4=16 d8=4 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 4:25:02 PM
Kedarn steps in and attacks skeleton (s7) with his longsword in a flanking position. (hit AC 16 dmg 4)
Garrard d20+4=10 d6+2=5 Wednesday October 15th, 2003 6:09:15 PM
Garrard hacks back at the skeleton before him.
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP13(20) d20+1=3 d20+2=12 Thursday October 16th, 2003 4:46:22 AM
The ranger glances briefly over the fallen foe [Spot 3] and moves over to attack the next one [5ft step, flanking position with Andrath if possible]. This time his attacks are less effective then just a moment before [standard action:attack, expertise+2, hits AC12+2 miss].
[kulczmc@auburn.edu]
Skeletons Rnd 5 [DM Matt] d20+3=22 d6+2=5 d20+3=10 d6+2=5 d20+5=19 d6+2=8 d2=1 d20+3=10 d6+2=6 d20+3=19 d6+2=8 d20+3=23 d20+3=14 d6+2=8 d6+2=8 Thursday October 16th, 2003 7:52:13 AM
Lorth comes down hard on the skelly exploding part of its rib cage. "Noooooooooooo! Now all the food will leak out" it howls. Obviously it hasn't looked in a mirror lately.
Wynn makes a solid blow on S4 after avoiding getting hit and then suddenly turns and tries to thread the needle to the north to reach the door. Both s7 and S4 seeing a nice opening in Wynn's back defense, make their attacks of opportunity: (S7: AC 22/5 Damage; S4: AC 10/5 Damage)
Garrard misses. Cadmar tries to flank with Andrath's but is just a little shy of doing that.
The productive Kedern makes some nice damage on S7.
He sees S1 wipe the sweat off its forehead, then reach into its belt pouch for a glass vial. The vial is obviously empty, but the skeleton nonetheless pops the top and takes a long gulp from it then smashes the vial to the ground. "Ahhhhhhhhh, Now youz gonna get it Jarl!"
S4 charges further after Wynn wanting to impale the bard. (charging hits AC 19,8 damage) However, Elerinn, S4 just crossed your path to do this so you may make an attack of opportunity with a weapon currently in your hand and its AC is only 13 for the attack. If you kill it, then Wynn takes no damage.
S3 turns from Andrath and attacks Cadmar instead as he seems to be moving around a lot. (AC 10/6 Damage)
S6 tries to hit Garrard (AC 19/8 Damage) S5 attacks Lorth (AC 23, crit threat AC 14, 8 or 16(w/crit) Damage)
S1 grins sadistically clacks off towards Elerinn, catching up to him.
Elerinn - AC: 12, HP: 8 d20-2=3 Thursday October 16th, 2003 12:36:13 PM
While Elerinn follows Wynn to the tower, a skeleton moves close to him, and Elerinn instinctively tries to slash the creature with his small dagger. He misses terribly, however.
When another skeleton starts moving towards Elerinn, the gnome holds the weapon before him, ready to defend himself.
OOC: Full defense, I couldn't find the 3.5 edition rules on it, so AC 12 is without bonusses.
Garrard - AC: 17, hp: 11 d8+5=11 Thursday October 16th, 2003 3:41:09 PM
Garrard is dazed as the blow thunders into his chest, he drops to one knee, trying to blink away the pain, and barely manages to activate the wand of curing again.
(Dazed state at 0hp allows a move action. Move action to activate wand.)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 12/14) d10=6 Friday October 17th, 2003 12:17:01 AM
Wynn turns to head to the door and feels the searing pain of a blade rake across his shoulder blade. He stumbles forward in an attempt to recover his balance when a second blade pierces his armour and sends him to the ground. The bard puts his hand to his side and feels the hot sticky flow of blood seeping through his armour. His last thoughts are of his boyhood friend dying in his arms and then darkness overcomes him. [failed stabilizing roll with d10]
Andrath (AC17, 13/16 hp) d20+10=22 d20+8=10 d20+6=16 d20+4=23 d20+4=21 d8+3=8 Friday October 17th, 2003 1:21:30 AM
Andrath tumbles over to stand atop Wynn. His tumbling takes him past the vast majority of the skeletons, but he manages to avoid attacks of opportunity from most of them. [OOC: Using the round 4 map, I figure Andrath has to tumble by skeletons 5, 1, 7, and 4, in that order. Only skeleton 5 gets the AoO, by my calculation, since all the other rolls beat the tumble check of 15 required (rolled 22, 10, 16 and 23). This is his move action for the round.]
He recovers from his tumbling, and swings at skeleton 4, smashing into the creature's bones. [OOC: Hit AC21 for 8 hp damage.] He calls out, "Kedarn, get here quickly, Wynn has fallen! I will try to take the skeleton blows, but Wynn needs your healing!"
Cadmar AC17 HP20(20) 2d8(5+2)+3=10 Friday October 17th, 2003 3:03:20 AM
Cadmar glances around and sees two of his friends fallen on the ground. "Aw damn!"
The ranger jumps back from the skeleton he is facing [5ft step], drops his scimitar [free action], punches a small disk on his chest [free action, activate Seal of Liquid Sharing], fishes a small vial out of his pouch [move action, get potion of Cure Moderate Wounds], and drinks the mixture. Strange sensation passes over the whole party as the potion's magic affects everyone [everyone gets healed of 2d8+3 damage].
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17) d8+5=11 Friday October 17th, 2003 6:40:30 AM
Seeing Wynn colapse to the ground bleeding Kedarn moves to Wynn. Kedarn pulls out the wand of CLW and uses it on Wynn (heals:11 pts)
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/7 d20+5=25 d20+5=7 d8+2=6 d8+2=7 Friday October 17th, 2003 9:24:03 AM
Lorth staggers under the skeltons assault. Blood pours from his wound, but he fights on. (Hit: 25 crit chance 7, Damage: 6 or 13 Blunt)
Skeletons rnd 6 d20+3=9 d6+2=3 d20+3=17 d6+2=5 d2=2 d20+5=23 d6+2=5 d20+3=16 d6+2=7 d20+3=7 d6+2=6 Monday October 20th, 2003 4:41:40 AM
Little Elerinn the stalwart gnome missed the horrid skeleton who seems refreshed after "drinking" his "potion". Funny, his bones are still as broken as they were. [BTW, Full defense means just that. You are defending. What you did is "fighting defensely" as you took a swing, thus it's only a +2 to your AC for the attack below.]
Garrard manages to heal himself a little.
Wynn drops to the ground in pain and things go dark.
Andrath is able to find a path through the battle that does not provoke any attacks of opportunity even without tumbling, but he is just barely able to make it to Wynn using his full movement. Andrath is now 5 feet from both Wynn AND S4. [Sorry I forgot to send an updated map. Remember the room is 160 feet long, thus 80 feet for half of it.)
Cadmar smartly takes a 5 foot step aback before drinking his potion (Good boy!) and breaks his seal. A violet glow emits from it and darts into the liquid of the potion as Cadmar drinks it. The light then instantly branches out to his six companions filling them all with a violet glow. [Everyone gains 10 hit points.]
Wynn wakes up as a result. Kedern barely manages to threaaad the needle between S5 and S7 as he withdraws from S7 to get to Wynn. He manages to end up 15 feet from Wynn. (No heal this round)
Lorth manages a nice blow straight down on S5 sending its skull through the rib cage and out through the pelvis. It crackles to pieces. (Make a spot check Lorth.)
S3 swings at Cadmar (AC 9, 3 Damage) S6 slashes at Garrard again (AC 17, 5 Damage) S7 charges after Kedern and ends with a lunge towards Kedern's side. (AC 23, 5 Damage) S1 cackles, takes a 5 foot step to flank, and swings down at the gnome Elerinn (AC 18, 7 Damage) S4 turns and sees Andrath standing there. "Another Jarl! Back! Get back!" (AC 7, 6 Damage)
Garrard d20+7=13 d6+2=4 Monday October 20th, 2003 4:53:24 AM
Garrard grits his teeth, breaks a seal hanging from his cloakpin, and levies a supernaturally powerful blow at the skeleton. However, his aim in faulty, leaving some question as to whether the skeleton will be damaged. He then deflects the skeleton's blow with his shield.
(Seal of Smiting, +4 to hit on your next blow. (AC: 13, 4 pts of damage).
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP20(20) d20+3=14 Monday October 20th, 2003 5:24:50 AM
The ranger parries another blow and starts to wonder when his luck will run out.
"Might be a good time to use this Barkskin seal! Somebody keep healing, no use waiting until one of us drops!"
Cadmar picks up his weapon [move action] and brings it against the skeleton he is facing. "Domi guide my blade!" Despite invoking the name of his patron, the blow is deflected by his foe [standard action: attack, expertise +2, smite evil, hits AC14 miss].
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/17 d20+7=8 Monday October 20th, 2003 8:03:29 AM
Lorth moves to flank skeleton 3 with Cadmar. He swings once trying to take its head off... and misses wildly. (Cadmar, not sure, but you may get the +2 flanking bonus this round)
Elerinn - AC: 12 HP: 5 d20+3=4 Monday October 20th, 2003 4:27:29 PM
When the skeleton hits Elerinn in the arm, the gnome cries out in pain. He realizes that the seal Cadmar broke was probably the thing that saved him. Trying to get away from the skeletons and to reach Wynn, Elerinn tumbles towards his companion. Because of his pain, he has to fully concentrate on the tumbling and isn't able to defend himself from the skeletons.
If Elerinn is able to reach Wynn, he will search through his belongings for a healing potion.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17/12) d20+5=25 d20+5=22 d8=6 2d8(8+6)=14 Monday October 20th, 2003 5:14:16 PM
Kedarn winces from the pain of the blow then strikes back at the skeleton (S7) that hit him. (hit ac 25 possible crit, crit check 22, dmg 6/14 if crit)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 9/14) d20+3=21 d8+2=6 Monday October 20th, 2003 7:52:30 PM
Just as the darkness overcomes him, Wynn feels a warm sensation spreading throughout his body, and instead of his boyhood friend he finds himself looking up at Andrath and his new friend Elerinn...and a skeleton...
Wynn rises, sword in hand and strikes at the skeleton with all his might [Hit AC 21 for 6 dmg]. He then prepares to dodge the skeleton should it swing at him [Dodge; effective AC=19].
"Diola ile mellonaamin" (Thanks my friends)the bard calls out to Elerinn and Andrath, "I suggest we make short work of these tormented creatures".
Skeletons Rnd 7 d20+3=6 d6+2=3 d3=3 d20+3=18 d6+2=5 d3=2 d20+3=20 d6+2=6 d2=2 d20+3=4 d20+3=15 d6+2=3 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 6:03:41 AM
Cadmar sees his luck increasing. He starts to swing full force at the skeleton who he's fighting when he sees Lorth behind the skeleton swinging as well. Although Lorth misses, it causes the skeleton to turn and react to Lorth and leave himself open to Cadmar's attack which lands solidly for 5 points.
[Yes, Lorth I'll allow the flanking since you're faster than Cadmar.]
Wynn slashes at the skeleton and it is indeed very rickety now as bones fly.
An enraged Kedern is not a nice sight to behond, indeed for a skeleton that has just had it's skull bashed apart by his blow. (Spot check Kedern)
Elerinn leaps into the air but misjudges his direction a little and cannot control his flight. S4 takes a swat at him as he does his Woodstock (from Peanuts) impersonation. (AC 6, 3 Damage). He makes it to Wynn but Wynn is now standing and fighting so Elerinn cannot look through his stuff.
S4 enraged at the gnome's antics swings at Elerinn again. (and by his horrid miss) (AC 18,5 Damage)
S1 steps up next to S4 and swings at Andrath. (AC 20, 6 Damage)
S3 five-foot steps to next to Lorth and attacks him. He seems really annoyed by the distraction from before. (AC 4 (Natural 1! hehehe)
S6 tries to bash Garrard on the head. (AC 15, 3 Damage) Matchups: Lorth - S3 Garrard - S6 Andrath - S1 & S4 Wynn - S4 Elerinn - S4 Kedern/Cadmar - no one
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/17 d20+5=8 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 7:35:35 AM
Lorth spins to face the skeleton and attacks with his warhammer, missing wildly.
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP20(20) d20+3=20 d6=6 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 8:20:43 AM
The ranger dances around the foe Lorth is working on, gaining favorable position [move action: move around S3 to gain flanking with Lorth]. Once in position he does his best to end skeleton's existence, and, to his own surprise, manages to score a hit again! [standard action, attack, expertise +2, hits AC20 for 6 dam].
Garrard - AC: 17, Hp: 12 d20+6=22 d20+3=4 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 3:09:57 PM
Garrard realizes as the fog slowly clears that he is protecting the backs of his comrades, and digs in. Smiling grimly, he states, "Flanking, indeed", and incants a short prayer in Sylvan.
"Let the pack descend, and purify this abomination."
(Spontaneous switch of calm animal to Summon Natural Ally I, summons a wolf. (stats to follow in DM only posting. Casting on the defensive, concentration check is DC:22, which exceeds the required DC17, and so does not provoke an AoO. Spell duration, 2 rounds.)
Unless disrupted, the wolf attacks the nearby skeleton hitting AC:6. (+2 for flanking).
Elerinn - AC: 12 HP: 0 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 4:39:51 PM
Elerinn feels the skeleton's sword going inside him again, but this time it feels more distant. Time seems to slow down for a moment and Elerinn is able to look around. Looking at Wynn, he realizes that he might be the next to lose conciousness. He tries to get a healing potion out of his backpack, this time to heal himself.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17/12) d20+5=25 d8+5=7 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 4:44:35 PM
Kedarn watches the skeleton come apart (spot 25 (nat 20!)) Seeing Elerinn take a hit, Kedarn moves quickly over to Elerinn then uses the wand of CLW (Heal 7 hp)
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; 9/14 HP) d20+3=20 d8+2=5 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 6:03:06 PM
Wynn watches the skeleton hack at Elerinn and swings down hard on the bony figure (S4)in retaliation [Hit AC=20 for 5 HP]. If the skeleton remains standing, he will dodge it's next attack, otherwise he will prepare to defend himself against the skeleton attacking Kedarn (S1)[Effective AC =19].
"Finish them now!" he cries in excitement.
Andrath (AC17; HP 7/16) d20+4=10 Tuesday October 21st, 2003 7:27:24 PM
Andrath slashes at the skeleton in front of him (S4 if it still stands; S1 otherwise) but fails to make contact [Hit AC10]. He curses at his inability to strike a lethal blow.
Skeletons 8 [DM Matt] d20+3=13 d6+2=7 d20+3=12 d6+2=8 d20+3=15 d6+2=8 Wednesday October 22nd, 2003 4:36:54 PM
Lorth misses S3 but gets help from Cadmar from the other side.
Garrard casts one of a summon spell to conjure a wolf, but the spell casting is long and doesn't quite finish yet. [Casting time is a round so the wolf won't show up til next round. I'll put him wherever would be most appropriate for flanking if things move before then. You can still act next round no problem.]
Elerinn fumbles around in his backpack. [If you are going to find something, it's your job to tell me. It's assumed you know where everything is so if you want to find a potion you have, then you find it. I'm not going to tell do that for you. It's too late now but note this for the future.]
As the skeleton drops to pieces, Kedern notices that one of the pieces of his shoulder seems to "connect" to the surrounding bones in a strange way. Like that is the central hub of the skelly. Having no time to ponder this, he rushes to Elerinn's aid and taps him with his wand.
Wynn shatters the rest of the bones and S4 drops. [Spot check for Wynn]
Andrath misses.
S3 again steps away from being flanked and pummels Cadmar. (AC 13, 7 Damage)
S6 swats at Garrard. (AC 12, 8 Damage)
S1 stabs at Andrath (AC 15, 8 Damage)
S4...well...S4 does nothing, it's just a pile of bones now.
The DM throws away his current low-rolling, crappy d20 and pulls out another.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17/12) d8+2=9 Wednesday October 22nd, 2003 4:53:02 PM
Kedarn moves quickly over to Andrath and casts 'Cure Light Wounds' on him. (heal 9hp)
Garrard d20+3=17 d6+2=5 d20+3=9 d6+3=6 Wednesday October 22nd, 2003 5:15:00 PM
Garrard rolls around the skeleton to place himself a hundred and eighty degrees from the materializing wolf, and swings his weapon.
(Hits AC: 17, damage: 5, wolf strikes AC: 9, AC: 11 if flanking, damage if needed 6.)
Wynn d20+2=19 d20+3=11 d8+2=9 Wednesday October 22nd, 2003 9:20:53 PM
Wynn catches something out of the corner of his eye (Spot=19) but it doesn't deter him from making an attack on one of the skeletons (S1). The half-elf makes a diagonal slash at the undead creature (Hit AC 11, 9 dmg).
Andrath (AC 17, HP 7+9=16/16) d20+4=12 d20+8=20 d8+3=9 Wednesday October 22nd, 2003 9:41:31 PM
Trying to staunch the flow of blood, Andrath barely manages to avoid the attack of the mindless automaton (S1). When a familiar sensation of well-being overcomes him, he glances quickly over his shoulder to acknowledge Kedarn's gift of healing. Diving past the skeleton, the rogue gets himself behind the creature and opposite Wynn to flank. He grunts as he draws his sword up hard against the creature to do as much damage as possible. (Hit AC 20, 9 pts dmg)
(OOC: Tumble roll should have been d20+10=18, not the 12 of first roll with +4)
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP20(20) d20+1=11 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 5:28:57 AM
The ranger blocks another strike, no longer having time to ponder his good fortune. He steps to his right [5ft step SE]. It is not quite enough to flank the undead with Lorth, so Cadmar glances at the paladin and waits for him to move. After Lorth moves in position Cadmar strikes in cooperation with him.
[Ready action: attack the skeleton S3, expertise +2. Action is triggered after Lorth acts. But it is a miss anyway.]
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/17 d20+7=23 d8+2=9 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 7:47:00 AM
Lorth moves back into flanking position with Cadmar and swings his warhammer, and he connects with a crushing blow.
(Hit: AC 23 Damage: 9 Blunt)
Elerinn - AC: 12 HP: 7 d20=16 d3-2=1 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 10:47:48 AM
Elerinn is able to find a healing potion in his backpack, but at that time Kedarn taps him with his wand and the small gnome is healed somewhat. Feeling refreshed again, he puts the potion back, realizing he should use it at a more important time.
Elerinn thanks Kedarn and tries to flank any nearby skeleton. He realizes that his changes of hitting one of the undead are low, but that it could help the other person fighting the creature.
OOC: Hitting AC: 16, for 1 damage (Surprisingly, with a d3-2...)
Skelly9 [DM Matt] d20+3=15 d6+2=5 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 5:31:40 PM
Andrath and Lorth hack S1 and S3 to pieces, respectively. Spot checks for Andrath, Lorth, and Cadmar.
S6, the skeleton on Garrard and the wolf, is the only one left. [No map being sent]
Wynn saw nothing with his spot check.
S6 swats at Garrard in a howl knowing that he is about to be defeated. (AC 15, 5 Damage)
Garrard is 5ft from S6 and can still flank with his wolf and can have a full action. Cadmar and Lorth can both make a regular 30 ft move and attack S6. Everyone else must make a full charge at S6 to attack it.
Garrard - Ac: 17, Hp: 12 d20+5=17 d6+3=7 d20+5=24 d20+5=14 d6+2=8 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 5:41:11 PM
Garrard ducks under the skeleton's shot, and steps again, to reposition and cause a slight pause in attack timing.
The summoned wolf leaps to the attack from one side, striking the skeleton, and yanking the animated being sharply.
(Hits AC: 17, damage: 7, free trip attempt: 24)
As the skeleton is pulled, Garrard launches a vicious overhand swing at it with his scimitar.
(Hits AC: 14, Damage: 8)
Wynn Thursday October 23rd, 2003 11:49:31 PM
Striking out towards the door, with his sword in one hand, Wynn pulls the splinter from his vest pocket and consults it in an attempt to learn which way the party should now go.
Andrath d20+13=22 d20+10=25 Thursday October 23rd, 2003 11:55:25 PM
Andrath watches the skeleton crumple (Spot=22), then makes a quick survey of the area for anything of interest (Search=25). He bends down to retrieve the sword used by his opponent (S1)picking it up in his off hand. After examining it, he gives it a test swipe through the air.
Cadmar AC17+2(Expertise) HP20(20) d20+1=6 d20+1=17 d6=2 Friday October 24th, 2003 3:22:40 AM
[Spot 6] "Yeah! Great show, Andrath and Lorth!"
The ranger moves to the last remaining enemy and tries to finish the combat [expertise +2, hits AC17 for 2 damage].
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:17/12) d20+3=22 Friday October 24th, 2003 7:59:26 AM
Kedarn goes over to where the skeleton he destroyed is and searches through its remains to carefully look at the oddity that he spotted. (search 22)
Lorth AC 16, HP 26/17 Friday October 24th, 2003 8:58:09 AM
Lorth nods to Cadmar and heads over to skeleton 6 if it is still standing. Otherwise he moves to where everyone is grouping up.
Elerinn Friday October 24th, 2003 5:19:18 PM
Elerinn moves towards the skeleton, but almost knows for sure that it will be defeated, now on his own.
Dem Bones [DM Matt] Friday October 24th, 2003 6:18:55 PM
The final skeleton crumples to the floor in shards just like the ones that already scatter the floor and it makes Wynn wonder what the land would be like now if the Jarl (as the party represented) had indeed conquered the tower and indeed the land.
Kedern easily finds the shoulder piece of the skeleton and shakes off the remaining bones. It has some interlocking ends on it's two opposite ends, almost jigsawish.
Andrath too notices something odd about his. The leg bone seems to remain standing even though the rest of the skeleton is crumpled. The shin part of it and part of the foot is one long piece with part of the foot being a somewhat disclike thing and the shinbone coming up in the center of it. Along the sides of the shinbone are various odd ridges and flaps.
As Andrath's eyes further gaze across the room he catches a glint of gold from the middle of the east wall. There is an alcove in the wall with an opening the height of a door but only about six inches wide. Inside the light reflects the shininess of the objects inside.
Wynn sees that the door is indeed tall and towershaped colored black, white rose and gray and is flush with the wall. Instead of a handle it has many indentations and holes in the "doorknob area".
Garrard Friday October 24th, 2003 8:09:33 PM
Garrard kneels near the wolf, and pets it once before it fades from this plane. Smiling a little to himself, he then stands, and moves over to the rest of the group.
Cadmar Saturday October 25th, 2003 4:16:27 AM
"What in the Wold happened?..."
"I am so glad to see you again. I had a most unusual and disturbing dream. How did you get here? I can still smell the mushrooms on us."
"Anyone wounded?" The ranger wipes his blade, even though there is no blood on it. "You know, I am probably the least effective in combat out of those of us who can use wands of healing. It might be a good idea if I carried one for a while. If we need to fight again I would concentrate on healing while others fight.
Cadmar sheathes his scimitar and slings the shield on his back. "Is there anything worth salvaging among the bones? I would hate to leave anything bandits can use against honest travelers."
If there is enough time, the ranger thoroughly searches the remains of the foes and the room itself [take20 on search:23], but he stops before approaching the narrow niche. "Whoa. Might be trapped."
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=13 d20+4=15 Saturday October 25th, 2003 9:22:12 AM
Wynn wanders briefly through the debris and circles the connected bones, examining their pattern and tries to assess whether or not they match the indentations on the door. [Search=13]
"I suspect that this may be the key to the door my friends, but I cannot be sure."
While the rest of the group examines the connected bones, Wynn will gather the weapons used by the skeletons and try each of them out [Appraise=15]to look for those that might be of higher quality. If he believes any to be masterwork he will cast detect magic on all of them.
Kedarn d8+2=9 Sunday October 26th, 2003 3:50:54 PM
Kedarn takes the odd bone and the walks over to wht door and sees if the bone will fit in any openings on the door without actually touching the door with the bone.
After examining the door Kedarn will look at the others and say "I suggest we rest and recover any spells that we used before we try to get through the door." Kedarn will then cast CLW on himself (heal 9 hp)
Andrath d20+10=21 Sunday October 26th, 2003 5:16:23 PM
Andrath picks up the odd leg bone, and says, "Some of those skeleton bones seem to be a little odd. I suggest we all search through the remaining bones, to make sure we have all the wierd ones collected. Cadmar, will you collect the bones together as we find them?" Assuming its alright with Cadmar, Andrath passes him the odd leg bone, and moves over to the niche.
When he arrives at the niche, Andrath will take a close look at it, trying to figure out what is inside, and looking for any traps. [OOC: Search roll of 21.]
Elerinn Sunday October 26th, 2003 6:05:40 PM
Elerinn remains quiet for some moments, looking at the crumbled skeletons. The feeling of safety immediatly after so much danger, feels strange to him, as it felt all those times before.
Lorth Monday October 27th, 2003 8:39:49 AM
Lorth puts his warhammer away and tends his wounds. He then rejoins the rest of the group, waiting to see what they do with the oddly shaped bones.
Looking around [ DM Matt] Monday October 27th, 2003 6:19:50 PM
Kedern examines the door and finds that one of the ends fits into one of the holes but the other end of the puzzle looking bone that bends around looks like somthing else could be attached.
Andrath finds no traps on the wall by the niche but does find a lache which he pulls out. A two foot section of the wall (door height) swings out revealing an alcove inside.
Wynn crunches around the bone shards and realizes that the swords were actually made of bone too and also shatters to pieces.
Andrath and Cadmar look for more puzzle bones and find exactly 7. (one from each skeleton) [treasure list tomorrow]
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=16 Monday October 27th, 2003 7:54:59 PM
"Kedarn may be right" Wynn concedes, "We could all use a rest before proceeding."
Wynn examines the bones gathered by Cadmar and Andrath and tries to visually match them to the indentations near the door. [Search=16] He also examines the alcove discovered by Andrath from several feet away and then consults the splinter for direction.
Garrard d20+4=18 Monday October 27th, 2003 9:05:07 PM
Garrard tries to assist Wynn.
(search check vs DC 10 to aid other. Wynn should get a +2 to his roll.)
Andrath d20+10=22 Tuesday October 28th, 2003 12:12:44 AM
Andrath carefully searches the alcove, checking to see if it is trapped in any way. [OOC: Search check of 22.] He looks over his shoulder and says, "Do you think those funny-shaped bones connect to form some sort of huge key?"
Cadmar Tuesday October 28th, 2003 2:54:54 AM
After piling the seven pieces of bone with Andrath and examining holes found by Kedarn Cadmar is rather sure that this is the case, so he nods. "I would place my bet on that, Andrath. By the way, where is the splinter pointing?"
"Pity we couldn't salvage anything from this fight. But maybe the alcove hides something of interest to us?"
When Kedarn and Wynn suggest resting Cadmar looks disturbed. "But Cassandra!... Who knows if it won't be too late for her in just a few hours!..."
The ranger looks crestfallen. Eventually he says: "Well, if we have to rest, then we have to. I do not want to be guilty of the death of any of us. I feel bad enough already after what I have done when we got attacked by an owlbear. I will not push us forward if we are on our last legs."
Kedarn Tuesday October 28th, 2003 3:21:41 AM
"Everyone, lets gather all the odd pieces from the skeletons and try to put them together. Is anyone still injured? I suggest we setup watches while we rest. I will take the last watch." Afterwards Kedarn will start trying to put the odd pieces of bones together with the others. Kedarn will also try to heal anyone that is still injured (using wand or potions.)
Lorth Tuesday October 28th, 2003 9:42:20 AM
Lorth sits and utters a prayer to Gargul and Domi. His wounds begin to close up and scar over. (Lay on hands for 6, HP: 26/23)
Elerinn Tuesday October 28th, 2003 12:48:44 PM
Elerinn searches for the odd pieces from the skeletons, glad that he can do something to ease his mind after the fight. When Cadmar makes a remark on Cassandra, he agrees with him. They should move on as quick as possible.
Treasure bath! [DM Matt] Tuesday October 28th, 2003 7:17:36 PM
All the odd pieces start to pit together. Some form a handle. All seem to have a piece or wedge that sticks forward, especially Andrath's leg-piece which sticks out through the center of everything. After a lot of fiddling you all manage to piece together this large multipronged key.
The splinter points to the bone puzzle and to the key it makes.
Wthin the alcove as the light shines inside, Andrath is pleased to see a pile of treasure therein. Rummging around inside he can find the following: A grey bow with white string. A Longsword with a rose hilt and black blade. A Cloak with a black and white large-diamond pattern all through it. A rose light shield made of wood and a bizarre white face on it. A small case which contains 6 vials. A bundle of 4 pieces of parchment. Each a different color, with different writing and tied with a different color ribbon. (1 - Grey parchment with black writing and a rose ribbon. 2 - Black parchment with white writing and a grey ribbon 3 - White parchment with rose writing and a black ribbon 4 - Rose parchment with grey writing and a white ribbon)
A set of 3 small bells of 3 different sizes (Smallest to largest White, Grey, Black) A Rose Goblet with black lining on the bottom and rim. 12 gems (4 each of Rose, White, Grey and Black) A plain grey mask with rose-lined eyeholes. 100 black coins. 100 rose coins. 100 white coins A gleaming white chain shirt of excellent quality. A rose-colored turbin with grey lining. 2 small feathers, one black and one grey.
Wynn Brightsong d20+6=21 Tuesday October 28th, 2003 10:23:47 PM
Wynn accepts Kedarn's offer of healing [OOC 9 of 14 HP]and stands agape at the contents of the alcove. "Do you think any of this is enchanted?" he asks Andrath. "I could try to detect any magical auras." Wynn will cast Detect Magic and scan the contents of the alcove to determine what items may be magic if Andrath and the others agree.[Spellcraft to determine type of aura = 21]
Andrath Wednesday October 29th, 2003 1:42:45 AM
"Well, Wynn, since this whole crazy tower seems to be made of magic, why can't these things be magic, too?" He pulls out the individual items and lays them out on the floor of the room. He looks around at the party and says, "I think Cassandra can wait a few minutes while we try to figure some of this stuff out. Wynn, why don't you wait until the items are spread out a bit, before you try to detect for magic?"
Cadmar Wednesday October 29th, 2003 4:05:35 AM
The ranger sighs.
"I would normally be very excited about such find, but right now Cassandra occupies most of my thoughts."
"Still, we need to handle the hoard somehow. And we even didn't agree yet on how we will be dividing the treasure we find."
Cadmar takes off his backpack, takes out his book, picks up a small chalky stone and starts writing on the back of the cover.
THE LIST OF PARTY TREASURE (PARTY PROPERTY, ITEMS YET UNDIVIDED, ETC):
Everything in the hoard gets jotted down.
"Let's see, what other items are we carrying around that belong to everybody?"
"Lenses of Eagle Eye, two Wands of Cure Light Wounds - by the way, how many charges are left on the wands? [and what is the caster level?] Camping equipment. Seal of Barkskin [what exactly it does again?]"
"Did I forget anything?"
"Now, unless anyone objects, let's postpone actual goods distribution until all of us are safely back at Jarlswolf. Fergoes might be talked into identifying them for us cheaply. We won his home back for him, after all."
"I agree that items should be checked for magic. Those of you who can make best use of weapons should carry them."
"As I am rather weak in combat I could carry around one of the wands for a while and do healing when needed."
"The feathers might be Quaal's tokens. And the turbin... Uh, in my dream a turbin polymorphed me into a bird. We might want to be careful with it."
Kedarn d8+5=9 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 4:26:11 AM
Kedarn moves to Wynn then uses the wand on Wynn (healing 9 hp.) "I can put alot of it in to my backpack with no problems. The weapons and shield will have to be carried. Lets get this packed up and try to find Cassandra once we have rested."
*** OOC: Wand of CLW (20 charges left)(heals 1d8+5) ***
Lorth Wednesday October 29th, 2003 9:28:09 AM
Lorth looks up at the treasure hoard. He then concentrates on it, scanning it for an aura of evil. (Detect evil, in the treasure hoards direction)
Elerinn Wednesday October 29th, 2003 1:51:55 PM
Elerinn sees Wynn casting a spell directed at the treasure hoard, and guesses it must be a detect magic spell. He suggests that the group collects the treasure now and should divide it later.
Garrard Wednesday October 29th, 2003 2:19:17 PM
Garrard says, "The wand I carry for the group has 18 charges left. My opinion would be to gather up these items, and pack them along until Jarlswolf. Using magical items without identification is asking for trouble, although, I think we should keep those coins near at hand as we progress inwards."
Stuff! [DM Matt] Wednesday October 29th, 2003 9:21:02 PM
A purple glow spreads out from Wynn's fingers and its beam traverses the items that are spread out on the flow. The beam subsides and after a moment the following items themselves radiate purple to Wynn: The Sword The Bow The Cloak The Vials within the "six-pack" The Shield The Four Parchments The Mask The Turbin The Two Feathers
Lorth does not detect even a smidge of evil on anything.
[Please specify when you use a particular item especially during combat so I can include any possible effects.]
{Cadmar's OOC questions: 1) [and what is the caster level?] I have no idea what the casting levels of your current items are. So if you guys don't know, then wands are at the minimum caster's level. 2) Seal of Barkskin [what exactly it does again?]" I have no idea what the seals do. Seals are described when given to you and it is the players job to tell DMs in their respective games those descriptions. And yeah I know some of them are really vague so that means I get to decide their effect and effectiveness. ;) }
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14/14) d20+6=10 d20+6=24 d20+6=17 d20+6=15 d20+6=24 d20+6=18 d20+6=10 d20+6=18 d20+6=22 d20+6=26 d20+6=16 d20+6=24 d20+6=21 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 10:14:30 PM
Wynn is obviously excited about the results of his casting. Rejuvenated by Kedarn's healing wand, he continues to scan the treasure with his spell. He will try to determine the nature of the magic instilled in each of the objects.
The Sword [Spell Check SC=10] The Bow [SC=24] The Cloak [SC=17] The Vials within the "six-pack" [SC=15] The Shield [SC=24] The Four Parchments [SC=18,10,18,22] The Mask [SC=26, Nat 20] The Turbin [SC=16] The Two Feathers [SC=24,21]
He seems particularly excited about the mask!
Andrath Thursday October 30th, 2003 1:05:12 AM
Andrath moves forward and picks up the black-bladed longsword, trying a couple of swings with the blade. "Until we all know what these items can do, I would like to wield this blade, at least until we are out of this crazy tower," he says to no-one in particular.
Cadmar Thursday October 30th, 2003 1:39:11 AM
"Sure."
"I know it might be risky to use unidentified magic items, but somehow my gut feeling is that these are beneficial." Assuming Wynn shares the results of his spell, Cadmar marks on his parchment which items are magical.
"Well, I don't see anyting somebody else couldn't use to better effects than me."
"Well, so what is the decision about making camp? Does this area look safe to you?"
Lorth Thursday October 30th, 2003 8:48:56 AM
Lorth says to everyone, "I detect no aura of evil about those items. They are probably safe to touch."
Elerinn Thursday October 30th, 2003 9:09:27 AM
Elerinn suggests that everyone takes the items he can carry along now, and divide it when back in Jarlswolf. When Cadmar suggests again to make camp, Elerinn disagrees with him. "I think we should try to rescue the witch first. But let's see how the others think about this..."
Elerinn looks at the others, waiting for their answers.
Garrard Thursday October 30th, 2003 2:04:51 PM
"I believe we should push on."
Kedarn Thursday October 30th, 2003 6:54:16 PM
"I would like to rest so that we are fully prepaired for any possible situation. I have no more spells that I can cast today and I feel that we may need spells to rescue Cassandra."
Andrath d20+10=21 Friday October 31st, 2003 12:39:42 AM
The elf says, "I agree with Kedarn, although I suggest we at least open the next door and see what is through it. Maybe Cassandra is just on the other side. However, if it looks to be another conflict or puzzle room, then I propose we close the door again, and wait and rest."
Andrath moves to try to open the far door using the strange bone key. First, the checks the door for traps [OOC: Search check of 21]. He listens at the door to see if there is any noise coming from the other side. Assuming the door is safe, and there are no disquieting sounds, Andrath tries to open the door a crack and peek through.
Cadmar Friday October 31st, 2003 2:09:02 AM
"I am voting for pushing on. This room does not look to me like a safe place to rest."
When Andrath opens the room the ranger stands to his feet and draws his scimitar, just in case something unpleasant was eavesdropping.
Wynn Brightsong d20+6=25 d20+6=7 d20+6=14 d20+6=21 d20+6=26 d20+6=8 d20+6=12 d20+6=24 d20+6=14 d20+6=16 d20+6=24 d20+6=19 Friday October 31st, 2003 7:39:18 AM
Wynn continues to scan the hoard of magic items, trying to determine the strength of the magical auras or if any of the items are empowered in more than one fashion.
The Sword [failed SC last round] The Bow [SC=25] The Cloak [SC=7] The Vials within the "six-pack" [SC=14] The Shield [SC=21] The Four Parchments [SC=26,8,12,24] The Mask [SC=14] The Turbin [SC=16] The Two Feathers [SC=24,19]
The Rainbow Meadow
The Opening of the Tower Door [DM Matt] Friday October 31st, 2003 7:41:23 PM
The key you've put together does fit indeed, the leg bone being the center and flaps and ridges and marks of the others each fitting into their own hole or etching in the door. You puch in and turn and the door seems to rumble. The key disappears in a mass of light and the door itself becomes a shimmering white portal.
You don't find any other doors in the room for other things to get in which seems a relief.
Andrath wields the sword and likes how it feels in his hand.
[Wynn please tell me what rule or spell you are using regarding your attempt to discern the magic items. I don't a have a book with me and I may not for a little while. Please spell out the entire rule. Thanks.
Sorry about the delay, but my computer crashed and I lost everything. Awaiting anyother copy of the module. But don't let this deter you from making certain decisions or not. I'll keep things going until I absolutely have to stop]
Wynn Brightsong (AC 18; HP 14/14) Friday October 31st, 2003 8:25:07 PM
Wynn finishes his examinations of the hoard and helps the others pack the items away.
Garrard Friday October 31st, 2003 8:45:17 PM
Garrard kneels for a moment, and collects himself, and then looks around the room for another exit.
"Needless to day, I'm not thrilled about the idea of another portal."
Cadmar Saturday November 1st, 2003 3:06:16 AM
"Well, four rooms were mentioned in the verses the door spoke to us, right? I can't quite recall."
"We better pack up all this stuff and move on. There is no knowing how long this portal will last."
"Let's just split the weight evenly among our backpacks. Somebody might want to take the bow and the shield."
If this is agreed upon Cadmar puts his share of weight in his backpack. If the party enters the portal Cadmar follows, scimitar drawn.
Kedarn Saturday November 1st, 2003 4:14:19 AM
"I can carry most of it in my pack as it has a bit of magic to lighten the load that I am carrying. I would like to try the bow as I am better with the bow than a sword." After saying that Kedarn will pick up the bow and will check to make sure it is ready to use. Then Kedarn will load as much of the treasure into his backpack as he can (Hewards Handy Haversack.)
*** OOC: will put it in the main compartment. it has room for 60lbs of gear (6 cubic feet) remaining. ***
Elerinn Sunday November 2nd, 2003 6:47:20 PM
Elerinn asks if anyone dissaproves of him taking the six potions and the parchments, for now. If no one does, he carefully places the items in his backpack. When all treasure is collected, he looks at the portal. Elerinn is unsure about going through the portal right now. There could be anything on the other side, an idea that scares Elerinn.
Andrath Sunday November 2nd, 2003 7:35:38 PM
Andrath sheaths the new sword and turns to the group, "Well, what shall it be? Do we go through the portal or remain here for a rest?"
Lorth Monday November 3rd, 2003 8:26:33 AM
Lorth awaits the parties decision and follows along.
Cadmar Wednesday November 5th, 2003 3:29:59 AM
"Well, we can't just stand here and wonder what to do. We need to make a decision. Cassandra needs our help."
Cadmar makes sure his share of treasure to carry is in the backpack, waits until everyone packs up, draws his scimitar, readies his shield, and, unless somebody tells him to stop, passes through the portal.
Garrard Wednesday November 5th, 2003 4:18:19 PM
Garrard shoulders scimitar and shield with a quiet frown, and follows Cadmar through the portal.
Matt Wednesday November 5th, 2003 7:13:47 PM
Hey all. Matt here. Sorry about the delay. As I said my computer crashed and my only access has been the very limited library computers which have a very short time limit.
I finally got a copy of the module again and after some rough tries in saving a copy I finally was able to make a printout so we're on again. Stay tuned for more madness.
Through [DM Matt] Wednesday November 5th, 2003 8:52:55 PM
The bow also seems to sit very well in Kedern's hand and it's ready to shoot. Cadmar, Garrard, and Lorth disappear into the portal. Andrath stares at the portal in anticipation and the others are busy collecting all the goods and stowing them away.
As far as Wynn could tell the bow, sword, shield, and cloak all had faint enchantment magic on them. The rest have bits of different schools, some stronger than others. A couple of conjuration vials. A transmutation vial. An Abjuration vial. A fat enchantment vial. The two big vials are both transmutation. The feathers are conjuration and transmutation. The mask is multi as is the turban. The mask is stronger than the rest.
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=12 d20+4=23 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 10:31:02 PM
Wynn takes one last look at the mask, examining it for further clues as to it's nature [search = 12]. As he places it in Kedarn's pack and readies to enter the portal he tries to recall whether he has heard or read of such an artifact [bardic knowledge=23].
"Let's go" he calls to the rest as he passes through the shimmering portal.
Andrath d20+13=20 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 10:33:18 PM
Andrath steps through the portal behind Wynn, alert to the possibility of new dangers [Spot=13].
Kedarn d20+5=23 Thursday November 6th, 2003 6:46:17 AM
Kedarn will follow through the portal with an arrow nocked in the bow. As soon as Kedarn steps through the portal he looks around trying to spot any possible trouble (spot 23.)
Lorth Thursday November 6th, 2003 7:50:51 AM
Lorth follows along, shield up and warhammer at the ready.
Hay Fever Land [DM Matt] Thursday November 6th, 2003 3:00:41 PM
Cadmar, Garrard and Lorth step out on the top of a large hill. The air is fresh. In every direction stretched a meadow of flowers, and thankfully all the colors of the rainbow are represented, not just the usual four. The rolling hills seem to stretch on forever, except in one direction where there is a fifty foot chasm. Above you the sky is black as coal.
Cadmar Thursday November 6th, 2003 3:26:19 PM
For a moment Cadmar just stands there, admiring the view. "You know, I don't recall ever seeing anything so... unusual. Look at the flowers! Sort of makes you want to take off your boots and run barefoot."
The ranger sheathes his scimitar and slings his shield over his shoulder.
"I guess we just wait for others? Might as well have a look around in the meanwhile."
Cadmar makes a circle around the hill the three of them have appeared on looking for anything in the grass [Take10 Search: 13].
Elerinn Thursday November 6th, 2003 4:10:04 PM
Elerinn, a bit afraid but also curious, follows the others through the portal. Before he steps through the portal, he checks if all the treasure has been taken. If not, he collects it and goes through the portal.
Garrard d20+7=9 Thursday November 6th, 2003 5:09:35 PM
Garrard kneels and takes his time looking around at the nearby area and wildlife. Specifically, he looks for dangerous plant life, nearby tracks, and other natural details of the environment. If he finds anything, he passes it along to the group verbally.
(Wilderness Lore check: 9)
By the Way [DM Matt] Thursday November 6th, 2003 6:57:41 PM
The rest of the group follows the trio through the portal and ends up with them a round later so the three that went first can do more than one thing and/or reply to new things the other four do and say.
Kedarn Thursday November 6th, 2003 7:56:12 PM
Kedarn continues to look around when he appears through the portal.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday November 6th, 2003 10:00:47 PM
Wynn can't help but notice the stark difference between the black sky and the different and brightly coloured flowers of the meadow. "What have you discovered so far?" he asks Garrard, who is on his knees examining the flowers.
Wynn consults the splinter while he waits for Garrard to respond.
Andrath Thursday November 6th, 2003 10:05:13 PM
Andrath pops through the portal and is relieved to find no immediate danger. After a brief look around he addresses the rest of the party..."No doubt we must navigate that great ditch" he points to the chasm. "What does the splinter tell you Wynn?"
Cadmar Friday November 7th, 2003 3:24:15 AM
Cadmar continues his slow walk around the hill, looking for anything that would reveal recent passage of anyone or anything.
Lorth Friday November 7th, 2003 8:51:33 AM
Lorth comes through the portal, he looks around, but does not relax...
Elerinn Friday November 7th, 2003 5:19:26 PM
Elerinn awaits Wynn's answer, he is curious to find out what the splinter tells them.
The Meadow [DM Matt] Friday November 7th, 2003 7:44:48 PM
Cadmar walks around the colorful meadow hill slowly examining the area as he goes and sees no signs of other people. He discovers that the flowers are not only different colors but that they emit a short beam of colored light, the same color as the themselves. He (and those not talking or making a lot of noise) hear a somewhat of a muurmurring all about. Very faint. It's somewhat eerily melodic.
Garrard specifically can make out faint words being sung while he is kneeling.
Garrard d20+3=13 Friday November 7th, 2003 8:52:02 PM
Garrard says, "Quiet, please" and bows his head, listening.
(Listen Check: 13)
Cadmar Saturday November 8th, 2003 11:58:16 AM
Cadmar stops and listens, but soon realizes that Garrard might be hearing something he can not, so he just stands in silence, curious about what Garrard might be hearing.
Kedarn Saturday November 8th, 2003 2:29:30 PM
Kedarn stops and tries not to make any noise so that Garrard can hear better.
Elerinn Sunday November 9th, 2003 3:51:38 PM
Elerinn remains quiet while Garrard is carefully listening. The silence disturbes him and he hopes Garrard finds out where the sounds comes from and what it is soon.
Andrath d20+8=15 Monday November 10th, 2003 12:42:04 AM
Andrath moves over to Wynn's side, and quietly asks, "Are you carrying the splinter? What direction is it pointing now?" He draws the new sword, and carefully examines it, to see if it is well-made. [OOC: Appraise roll of 15, usually can tell if the weapon is at least masterwork.]
Wynn Brightsong Monday November 10th, 2003 7:53:35 AM
"I am still carrying the splinter" Wynn replies to Andrath, "but it does not seem to be pointing at anything!"
Lorth Monday November 10th, 2003 8:31:01 AM
Lorth stands quietly, while his friends do their various actions.
Bring the Witch [ADM Bob ] Wednesday November 12th, 2003 12:10:16 AM
Garrard kneels down to hear the flowers while the others stand by. He can hear the faint words of a song...
Come now witch now honor rich now Witching near now kneel and dear vow Come to pray now so they may bow Bring the witch and bring the witch and bring the witch ... Now.
Garrard realizes that all the flowers are singing the same words, but not in unison, producing an overall hum across the meadow. The druid also feels a slight upward breeze emanating from the open flowers on his face.
The splinter lies inert for the moment, resting in the palm of Wynn's outstretched hand. Andrath tests the balance of an obviously finely crafted sword in his hand.
[OOC: I will continue posting for Matt until his computer is fixed]
Cadmar Wednesday November 12th, 2003 6:06:28 AM
[Assuming Garrard shares the words he hears with everyone]
"I'm confused."
"Maybe this is the exit from the tower? In that case we will need Cassandra to leave the place."
[Is the portal we arrived through still open?]
[Are there any landmarks visible on the horizon? Anything unusual at all we can see?]
Cadmar walks up to the chasm, being EXTREMELY careful not to slip again, and looks down.
[OOC: I did lots of checking and I think I finally have a complete list of our common items. It turns out the wands were bought at caster level 1 and heal 1d8+1 per use. I also found the stats for the Barkskin seal we earned for submitting E3.5 charts. Who is carrying this seal, by the way?]
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% ITEMS OWNED BY THE WHOLE PARTY (*** denotes magic):
Eyes of the Eagle *** Wand of Cure Light Wounds, CL1, 20 charges *** (carried by Kedarn) Wand of Cure Light Wounds, CL1, 18 charges *** (carried by Garrard) Seal of Barkskin (all party members within 50ft get a +2 natural armor bonus for 2 rounds) ***
Tripod for hanging pots over fire (3' tall) Iron pot Sack (2)
YET UNIDENTIFIED:
Grey bow with white string *** (faint enchantment) Longsword with a rose hilt and black blade *** (faint enchantment) Cloak with a black and white large-diamond pattern all through it *** (faint enchantment) Rose light shield made of wood and a bizarre white face on it *** (faint enchantment) 6 vials *** (2 conjuration, 2 transmutation, abjuration, enchantment) Grey parchment with black writing and a rose ribbon *** Black parchment with white writing and a grey ribbon *** White parchment with rose writing and a black ribbon *** Rose parchment with grey writing and a white ribbon ***
3 small bells of 3 different sizes (Smallest to largest White, Grey, Black) A Rose Goblet with black lining on the bottom and rim 12 gems (4 each of Rose, White, Grey and Black) Plain grey mask with rose-lined eyeholes *** (multimagic, stronger than rest) 100 black coins. 100 rose coins. 100 white coins Gleaming white chain shirt of excellent quality Rose-colored turbin with grey lining *** (multimagic) 2 small feathers, one black and one grey *** (conjuration, transmutation) %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
Lorth Wednesday November 12th, 2003 8:44:06 AM
Lorth stands and waits, weapons at the ready. He has seen to much craziness here for his guard to go down.
Garrard Wednesday November 12th, 2003 2:32:41 PM
Garrard repeats the words to the party, and shows the group the odd effect the flowers are producing.
(OOC: The notes I have show the caster level of the wands at 5. At any rate, wands cannot be caster level 1, because you have to be 5th level to make a wand.)
Elerinn Wednesday November 12th, 2003 4:50:39 PM
Elerinn can hear the faint voices, but they are unintelligible to him. His mind drifts away for a moment, entranced by the sound. But when Garrard repeats the song's words, Elerinn tries to understand the song. Having the same idea as Cadmar, he looks back at the portal, to check if it is still open.
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=16 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 5:53:50 PM
"I believe I detected a faint enchantment on that weapon earlier Andrath" Wynn comments as the rogue continues his sword play.
When Garrard points out the song of the flowers, Wynn takes a knee to listen more carefully. The bard searches his memory for any recollection of the specific words of the song [Bardic knowledge = 16]
Kedarn Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:43:27 PM
Kedarn continues to look around.
The Colour of Light [ADM Bob ] Wednesday November 12th, 2003 10:35:21 PM
The group spends some time examining their surroundings. Cadmar walks to the edge of the chasm. It seems bottomless and stretches endlessly in both directions. He sees no way across the divide. He gazes across the chasm to the meadow on the other side [Spot vs DC 12].
Lorth confirms that the portal through which they entered the meadow has now closed and any exit must be ahead of them.
As Wynn kneels to hear the flower's music he accidentally bends the stem of one of the flowers. Elerinn witnesses the flower's beam of light intersect those of the neighbouring flowers, and a wave a multicoloured light ripples across the landscape like a kaleidoscope. The wave changes colours as beams of light from different colored flowers come together.
Garrard picks a yellow flower to examine it more carefully and then hands it to Elerinn. It continues to emanate a beam of yellow light from it's center.
Cadmar Thursday November 13th, 2003 6:27:06 AM
Cadmar glances briefly across the chasm [Spot check was 11, but my computer crashed, so there is no roll].
Acting on an instinct he picks one of the red flowers and throws it into the black void, just to see if anything happens.
"Bring the witch... Somehow I suspect we will have to cross the chasm." [how wide is it, anyway?].
The ranger is startled by the sudden wave of colors. "I wonder what would happen if we tried to mix all the colors of the rainbow at the same time?" Then he tries to do just that.
[When you craft the wand you can set the caster level anywhere between the minimal level required to cast the spell and your caster level. So level 5 cleric with Craft Wand could create wand of CLW at CL 1,3,3,4, or 5. In E3.0 a wand of CLW at CL1 costed 750, at CL5 the price was 3750. What we paid was 345 for 23 charges and 400 for 27 charges (Catacombs, Jan the 24th, 2003). I too wish the wands were stronger, but they are, unfortunately, at CL1.]
Lorth d20+1=17 Thursday November 13th, 2003 9:16:34 AM
(Spot check 17) Lorth looks across the chasm to the meadow on the other side, trying to see if he sees anything unusual.
Garrard Thursday November 13th, 2003 3:02:48 PM
Seeing Cadmar take the obvious approach, Garrard walks to the chasm, walking carefully along its edge, probes with his scimitar for any concealed or invisible bridges.
If this fails, he will center a faerie fire spell directly in the middle of the chasm, and cast.
Elerinn d20+9=25 Thursday November 13th, 2003 3:22:45 PM
Elerinn carefully examines the beautifull flower, one that the gnome has never seen before. He tries to remember if ever read anything about these flowers, and their magical properties in particular.
After that, he holds the flower next to his ear, trying to hear if the flower still sings the same song.
Intrigued by the flowers colorfull beauty, he says: "They are really beautifull, aren't they? Maybe I'll try to take this one back to the 'real' world we left when entering the mouth.
Kedarn d20+5=19 Thursday November 13th, 2003 6:39:24 PM
Kedarn will walk over to near Cadmar and look out across the chasm. (spot 19)
Wynn Brightsong Thursday November 13th, 2003 9:28:04 PM
Wynn wanders over towards Cadmar, Lorth and Garrard and watches Cadmar's experimentation with the flowers.
Lights and More Lights [ADM Bob] Thursday November 13th, 2003 11:41:34 PM
Cadmar watches the red flower that he tossed into the chasm spin downward into the endless darkness until its red light can no longer be discerned. The Ranger then picks a mixed bouquet of flowers. Their individually coloured rays intermingle to produce a powerful, almost blinding beam of white light.
When Kedarn and Lorth approach to look across the chasm they observe a singularly large and colorful flower partly hidden in the meadow on the other side. Almost in unison they report there findings, and in doing so startle Cadmar. He swings around to face them and the beam of light punches each of them solidly in the mid-section, pushing both adventurers some 30' across the meadow and precariously close to the gaping chasm. Neither Kedarn or Lorth are injured, although both are winded by the experience.
Elerinn places the still singing flower carefully into a side pouch on his pack and joins Wynn near the chasm. Both he and Wynn are careful to avoid Cadmars new toy.
Garrard fails to detect any passage across the chasm and his spell, while providing yet one more source of interesting light, fails to reveal anything further.
Andrath Friday November 14th, 2003 1:13:22 AM
Andrath scratches his head, and studies the chasm, trying to figure out roughly how wide it is.
Cadmar Friday November 14th, 2003 1:39:29 AM
"Yikes!" Cadmar drops the flowers.
Then he sits down on the grass, his knees suddenly weak.
"If you were standing a little closer to-" The ranger has visible problems recovering from the experience. "I almost killed you! I am sorry! I am so sorry! By Domi, what kind of place is this? Even flowers can kill here!"
After gathering himself together the ranger sees Elerinn picking flowers.
"Say, that is a good idea. I think I would like to take some, too."
Cadmar takes out his dagger and carefully cuts out a patch of soil with three especially large red flowers, whistling quietly while he does so. "They might need the magic of this place to live. But then again, they might not. We'll see." He wraps the plants in his spare cloak together with some arrows so that the stems won't break.
"Now, to business at hand... A sufficiently strong beam of light could push us over the chasm like a catapult. We have our iron pot, maybe if we put enough flowers in it?..." Cadmar puts a few handfuls of flowers of each color inside, and, assuming a beam forms, carefully steps in its way. The experiment is conducted of course well away from the chasm.
Garrard d20=10 Friday November 14th, 2003 1:05:17 PM
Garrard kneels down near the chasm, and tries to turn one of the outlying flowers without uprooting it. Carefully, he attempts to aim the beam of line coming from its petals directly at the large flower on the other side of the chasm.
(If a roll is needed, 10, plus a possible +1 BAB, and +3 for dex, if applicable.)
Kedarn Friday November 14th, 2003 3:32:22 PM
Kedarn quickly scrambles away from the edge of the chasm. Looking at Cadmar, Kedarn says "that was a close call. Please be careful."
Oh that Floating Feeling [ADM Bob] d20+10=20 Friday November 14th, 2003 11:53:21 PM
Profuse apologies are offered and accepted and more flowers are collected. Then a germ of an idea begins to form. Cadmar picks bunches of flowers and soon a solid beam of white light approximately 2 feet in diameter jets skyward from within the iron pot. Cadmar steps into the beam and is rapidly accelerated some 20 feet into the air, at which point he struggles to maintain his balance [Balance Check vs DC 12 or take 2d6 falling damage].
It is clear to the others that the beam of light is capable of supporting their weight but not strong enough to launch them across the 50' chasm.
Garrard's attempt to hit the large colorful flower across the chasm fails, not because of poor markmanship, but because the beam of light seems to wane after extending only 60 feet, some 20 feet short of his target.
[OOC I will post again late Monday PM]
Garrard Saturday November 15th, 2003 2:04:51 AM
Remembering the words of the song he, and apparently he alone heard, Garrard kneels a short distance from the chasm, and begins to pray in Sylvan.
"Mother Wold, we have ventured into madness to rescue Cassandra, a woman offering some moderation to the region. Wherever we wander, we wander within your design, even into madness, and for this I offer prayer. I pray that we find Cassandra, so we may take her from his place, and have her aid against those who would despoil and corrupt."
Cadmar 13(20) d20-1=3 2d6(5+2)=7 Sunday November 16th, 2003 4:01:15 AM
The ranger is thrown into the air by the beam of light that was much stronger than he expected. High over the field he loses his balance and falls landing heavily on his side.
He tries to rise, but instantly collapses to the ground.
"Ow! I think I broke a rib!..." Cadmar takes off his chain, unbuttons his shirt, and gasps seeing a huge bruise forming up.
"You know, this was the second most stupid thing I have done this year. The first was jumping head first into an ankle deep pool."
The ranger tends to his wounds, dresses up, and puts his armor on. "I will probably require healing before we go into another battle."
"Well, if the beam is not strong enough to launch us over the chasm, maybe it is strong enough to support our weight? It is long enough to span to the other side."
Cadmar turns the pot to the side so that the beam is horizontal and cautiously tries to put his foot on it. If he senses solid surface he will try to walk over it, and then jump a few times on it. All of that is done, needless to say, well away from the chasm.
Kedarn d8+1=6 Sunday November 16th, 2003 3:43:46 PM
Seeing Cadmar land badly, Kedarn moves over to him quickly then uses the wand on him (heals 6hp.) Kedarn then listens to his idea and says "lets try, I will be willing to try it to get across." Kedarn then helps set it up for the attempt.
Elerinn d20=13 Sunday November 16th, 2003 6:09:12 PM
Elerinn watches Cadmar falling to the ground and can hear he is in pain when he hits the ground. He follows Kedarn and watches if Cadmar is allright after Kedarn heals him. "That was real...", Elerinn starts, but then the gnome continues: "...Never mind". He helps Cadmar up again and looks back at the pot. He winks and says: "Ready to try it for the second time?"
Wynn Brightsong Monday November 17th, 2003 7:15:20 AM
Wynn watches Cadmar's experimentation with interest and also agrees to give the bridge of light a try.
"Perhaps we should rope ourselves together when crossing in case anyone slips" suggests the bard. He reaches into his pack to find the silk rope coiled near the bottom.
Lorth Monday November 17th, 2003 8:02:48 AM
"We should tie say 70' of rope to the person trying to cross. Then the rest of us should all hold the end of the rope, in case they don't make it.", Lorth offers.
ADM Bob A bridge too far? Monday November 17th, 2003 11:10:42 PM
Cadmar tips the pot on it's side and walks back and forth along the beam of light. With that success, he and Kedarn spin the tub to face the chasm and the beam reaches the other side with approximately five feet to spare. The beam is 60 feet in length and 2 feet in diameter.
Garrard rises from prayer and moves to assist his companions. Wynn and Lorth tie two ropes together and prepare to harness Kedarn for the first passage.
[Please indicate the order in which characters will attempt the crossing and who will be holding the rope. Each crossing requires a balance check vs DC 10. Failure requires a dexterity check vs DC 15 to stay on the beam. Everyone make a strength roll to see how effective you are in saving anyone falling from the beam]
Andrath d20+4=24 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 1:14:19 AM
Andrath steps forward, and dons the harness. "I will leave one end of my rope here with you, and take the other end over. That way, anyone crossing after can hold onto the stretched rope as well." The elf concentrates, and steps out onto the beam. Feeling especially sure-footed, he practically dances across the beam [OOC: Balance check of 24, natural 20], and unties the harness, then takes hold of his end of the rope, bracing himself. "Well, that was easy enough; who's next?" he calls out across the chasm.
Cadmar 19(20) d20=12 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 3:48:55 AM
"Thank you, Kedarn, Elerinn. Uh, I feel sort of stupid about the first idea. Well, good thing the second one worked."
Cadmar admires the bridge of light spanning across the chasm.
"The rope is a good idea, Wynn... You know, the last person crossing should probably tie his end of the rope to the handle of the pot. This way we can recover it when we are on the other side.
The ranger readies himself to hold Andrath's weight when he is crossing [Str check 12], but fortunately it proves to be an unnecessary precaution.
"I'll go next." Cadmar removes his chain, slides the rope under his belt, gives the end to others to hold, and puts his foot on the beam of light [take ten on Balance: 11].
"I'm a ranger, young and tall, striding straight towards my goal, unafraid of any height, for I walk on bridge of light, steady step and steady heart, bye bye meadow, I depart, even though the chasm is wide, here I am - on the other side!"
Cadmar jumps off the bridge next to Andrath, waves to the others, puts his chain on, and gets ready to hold the rope.
"Remember! The last one over ties the rope to the pot!"
Lorth d20+1=2 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 10:50:34 AM
Lorth ties himself in the harness and double and triple checks it. He then slips out of his chainmail shirt and puts it in his pack. "Get ready, I'm not to nimble." He takes one step onto the beam of light and immediatly falls off. (Balance: 2 Rolled a 1)
Garrard d20+1=3 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 1:23:08 PM
Garrard waits his turn, and helps steady the rope.
(str check if needed, 3)
Elerinn d20+2=8 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 5:16:23 PM
Elerinn waits until he is the second last person still waiting. Remembering himself climbing down a cliff a few days ago, he is still afraid of what might happen. Cautiously, he ties himself in the harness and steps on the beam of light.
(OOC: Didn't know if I can take 10 on this roll. My balance check will be 12 if I can. In case I can't take 10, I rolled 6(balance check 6+2=8)
Kedarn (str check)d20=15 (balance check)d20+2=22 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 6:55:37 PM
Kedarn will wait untill everyone else has gone then will cross. Kedarn holds on to the rope as best he can trying to steady the rope and help the others.
Str check 15 Balance check 22 (nat 20)
Wynn Brightsong d20+1=13 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 12:24:18 AM
Wynn ties himself off to the rope that is now stretched all the way across the gorge and calmly makes his way across.
He prepares to cast featherfallon the first person that slips from the beam after moving more than 10 out over the chasm.
ADM Bob d20=6 d20=10 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 12:37:04 AM
Both Lorth and Elerinn have difficulty crossing the beam and lose their balance, both however manage to retain their grasp of the rope that now extends from side to side and are able to clamber back onto the beam. It is a nervous pair that finally make it to the other side.
Garrard is left on the far side, the last to cross.
Cadmar Wednesday November 19th, 2003 4:22:26 AM
"Come on, Garrard! And please remember to tie the rope to the pot."
Cadmar glances behind his back at the strange flower, curious about what awaits the group next.
Lorth Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:30:11 AM
Lorth looks a bit shaken, he wipes the sweat from his brow. "Let's not do that again" He sits quickly and searches his pack. Finding his armor he puts it on.
Elerinn Wednesday November 19th, 2003 9:01:23 AM
Elerinn looks at Lorth, who seems almost as shaken as the gnome is. While Lorth puts his armor on, he says: "Let's just hope we don't have to go back again, my friend."
When Elerinn looks back at Garrard who is about to be the last to cross, he shudders, feeling the same fear again.
Garrard d20+4=12 d20+3=15 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 1:43:21 PM
Garrard ties the rope off solidly, taking his time to recheck the knot. Then before crossing, he utters a quiet prayer of Guidance. His balance appears good heading into the challenge...
(Balance check dc12, dex check if needed dc15)
Kedarn d20+5=16 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 5:28:43 PM
Once everyone is across Kedarn will start to look around. (spot 16)
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday November 19th, 2003 11:28:57 PM
Once Garard crosses safely over to join the group, Wynn reels in the rope with the pot attatched.
Flower Power [ADM Bob] Wednesday November 19th, 2003 11:38:29 PM
Lorth and Elerinn watch in trepidation as Garrard crosses over the bridge of light.
Afterwards, Wynn reels in the rope with the pot attatched. As the pot is dragged into the chasm, the flowers spill out sending rays of different coloured light tumbling down into the abyss.
Cadmar and Kedarn note the distinctive flower in the middle of the field. It is huge, lying flat and open on the ground.
Andrath Thursday November 20th, 2003 12:03:40 AM
Andrath heads towards the large flower on the far side of the chasm. He takes a careful look around, keeping his eyes open for trouble.
Cadmar Thursday November 20th, 2003 6:25:39 AM
Cadmar makes a move as if he wanted to throw the flowers out of the pot, but then reconsiders. "A portable bridge might prove to be useful later on. If we sort the flowers we will probably disable the beam."
The ranger sorts the flowers by color, packs them separately, and stows them in the pot for later use. Then he approaches the flower with the rest of the group.
Lorth Thursday November 20th, 2003 7:24:28 AM
Lorth gathers himself and heads over to the giant flower.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday November 20th, 2003 8:14:30 AM
As the bard moves towards the large flower with the rest of the group, he removes the splinter from his pocket and consults it. He will advise the group if it indicates anything.
Garrard d20+3=11 Thursday November 20th, 2003 2:17:15 PM
Garrard moves up on the left flank of the group, and stands watch, carefully scanning the horizon for anything that might approach. He also looks up, to see if there might be anything above.
(Spot check: 11)
Kedarn d20+5=11 Thursday November 20th, 2003 3:54:53 PM
Kedarn looks around the area of the large flower carefully. (spot 11)
The Grave Yard
Head Over Heels [ADM Bob] Thursday November 20th, 2003 10:35:22 PM
Looking around Andrath, Garrard, and Kedarn see only the vast meadow of multicoloured flowers sundered by the ravine. Each flower shining its beam of light up into the dark black sky and singing its witchy song.
Cadmar notes that most of the flowers fell into the abyss when Wynn retrieved the pot. The few that remain, are beginning to wilt, but he stores them safely just the same.
Wynn circles the large, flat flower, and the splinter points to it, adjusting as he moves so that the sharp tip of the foreign compass is always pointed at the flower.
Lorth senses no evil and bends to have a closer look as do the rest of the adventurers. He suddenly feels as if he is being pulled head first into the flower, as if diving into a pool of deep water. One by one, each of the adventurers is pulled, somersault like, through the portal to the other side.
Regrouping from the jumble resulting from the tumble through the portal, the group finds themselves in a cold white room with walls of translucent marble. Alabaster slabs are evenly distributed throughout the room, and on each slab rests a figure.
(Party's initiative. Please roll your free actions.)
Cadmar 19(20) Friday November 21st, 2003 3:25:13 AM
The ranger draws his scimitar and readies his shield, just in case another attack is imminent [two move actions]. Otherwise he sticks with the rest of the group. Safety in numbers.
How many slabs are there? Do the figures look like bodies or statues? Do they resemble humans? Dwarves? Are they armed? Is there any obvious exit from the room?
Assuming the party is not attacked during the first minute, Cadmar will start searching the room [taking 20 on Search: 23], paying attention not to touch the statues or the slabs.
Cadmar will discard wilted flowers. Did the three he removed with a patch of soil also wilt?
Lorth Friday November 21st, 2003 7:41:28 AM
Lorth shakes his head to regain his wits and readies his warhammer and shield. He puts his back to his friends and tries to get a good look at the statues.
Garrard, AC: 17, Hp: 12 Friday November 21st, 2003 2:27:19 PM
Seeing his associates readying themselves, Garrard readies scimitar and shield, and steps a short distance to cover Lorth's flank.
Kedarn Friday November 21st, 2003 7:49:11 PM
Kedarn readies the bow incase someone attacks the group.
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=4 Saturday November 22nd, 2003 12:15:21 PM
Wynn attempts to help Cadmar search the room [Search=4].
A Peaceful Place ? [ADM Bob] Saturday November 22nd, 2003 12:30:42 PM
Cadmar, Wynn and Lorth search the room as the rest of the party readies their defence. Lorth realizes that the figures that rest on the slabs are not statues, but rather naked corpses. There are easily twenty slabs in the room but only six or seven have a body on them. The bodies look to be newly deceased, unaffected by time or decay. At the head of each slab is a fountain that sprays a fine mist over each corpse.
As the party members begin to move about the room, the light dwindles to darkness, except each member of the party is illuminated by a light that radiates 10 feet around them and no further. As they move, so does the light.
Cadmar, Lorth and Wynn have each moved 30 feet from the rest of the party who defend the south east corner of the room. Cadmar searched north and west, Wynn to the north, and Lorth to the west. They can no longer see each other, or the rest of the party gathered near the entrance.
Garrard Saturday November 22nd, 2003 7:24:51 PM
Garrard will move across the room, trying to look upon the faces of the nearest figures to see if any might be Cassandra. He remains on guard though, and is careful not to be sprayed by the liquid.
Kedarn d20+5=23 Sunday November 23rd, 2003 4:25:40 PM
Kedarn looks around to the best that he can trying to see any possible danger. (spot 23)
Andrath Monday November 24th, 2003 12:15:56 AM
Andrath steps partway into the room and calls out, "We had better stick together, we don't want to get separated. Let's meet here in center of the room, and we can look around together, and try to find an exit. Follow the sound of my voice, and we can form up here."
He continues to call out, hoping the party will move towards him.
Cadmar Monday November 24th, 2003 4:43:58 AM
Cadmar, suddenly unnerved, moves towards the voice of Andrath, paying attention not to trip over anything springing suddenly from the dark.
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=18 Monday November 24th, 2003 5:33:26 PM
Wynn moves towards Andrath's voice. Along the way he stops and closely examines one of the slabs that is adorned with a corpse. Wynn will not touch the corpse, but he will try to determine how long it may have been there and any clues to it's identity.[Search=18]
Lorth Monday November 24th, 2003 6:36:54 PM
Moves toward the center of the room...
Rest in Peace [ADM Bob] Monday November 24th, 2003 10:25:40 PM
The party regroups around Andrath and begins searching the room more systematically. Wynn notes that all the bodies seem remarkably well preserved, as if they had only died yesterday. Garrard believes that the fountains spray some kind of oil on each of the bodies and has discerned that none of the corpses in this half of the room are that of Cassandra, an observation confirmed by the rest of the party. Cadmar checks the status of his "rooted" flowers and discovers that they too grow wilted.
Andrath Tuesday November 25th, 2003 12:50:15 AM
Andrath says, "Let's move around as a group, and keep an eye on each other, so that we don't get separated. We need to look at all the bodies, to see if we recognize any of them, but don't disturb them in any way, and don't get in the way of the sprays, if you can avoid it. Once we have seen all the bodies, let's look for a way out. If there is no obvious exit, then we need to search carefully. [OOC: If necessary, Andrath will search the walls and the slabs, careful not to disturb the bodies, taking 20, for a search total of 30.]
Cadmar d20+3=22 Tuesday November 25th, 2003 5:46:04 AM
Cadmar, who never let the thought that one of the bodies might belong to Cassandra enter his head, discards the sad remains of the flowers he has packed earlier.
Paying attention to stick close to the group, he does his best to aid Andrath's search [aid another: Search 22 - succesful: +2 to Andrath's check].
"We should check for any drafts in the room that might indicate secret doors. Or try to move one of the empty slabs, the exit might be under one of them."
Elerinn Tuesday November 25th, 2003 6:40:24 AM
Elerinn, who followed silently for a while, feels very uncomfortable in this place. The dead seem so fresh, like they died only recently. It seems Cadmar's flowers refuse to live in a place like this. Elerinn discards the flower he picked, unless it hasn't died like Cadmar's.
Elerinn doesn't pray very often, but feels he must do it now. The gnome humbly says: "May Gargul guide their souls."
OOC: I'm sorry I couldn't post anything for a couple of days, my internet connection didn't work.
Lorth Tuesday November 25th, 2003 7:50:30 AM
Lorth takes the time to bless all the bodies in the name of Gargul. "May your journey be swift through the river of souls, wherever your final destination may be." He then follows along with the rest of the party.
Garrard Tuesday November 25th, 2003 3:56:17 PM
Garrard returns to the group, guided by Andrath's voice.
"This place grows more abhorrent the further we go. What drives man to construct so poorly, rather than living within Natures framework?"
Kedarn Tuesday November 25th, 2003 7:28:16 PM
Kedarn looks at the bodies and says "Gargul watch over these souls and see them on a safe journey." A few moments later Kedarn says "May we be guided by Gargul."
Kedarn will continue to move along with the group.
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday November 25th, 2003 11:10:06 PM
The bard reaches into his pocket, retrieving the strange compass once again. Looking down at the sliver resting on the palm of his hand, he studies it, hoping it will provide guidance.
Witch Way? [ADM Bob] Tuesday November 25th, 2003 11:20:47 PM
As Andrath and Cadmar lead the way around and between the alabaster slabs, the group gingerly follows, avoiding all contact with the bodies, the alabaster slabs, and the fine mist that is being continually sprayed over the remarkably pristine remains. Wynn notes that the splinter points in the direction opposite that in which the group is walking...directly at the small pile of abandoned flowers.
Andrath Wednesday November 26th, 2003 12:03:17 AM
Andrath says, "Wynn, is that splinter pointing at the flowers? Maybe we had better bring them along with us? Or maybe we need to wave them around the room? Or how about putting one of each of the flowers on each corpse?"
Garrard Wednesday November 26th, 2003 1:36:24 AM
Garrard thinks for a moment, and states, "We should certainly keep them along if the splinter is pointing at them. Did anyone check if they still gave off light? If so, it might be worth casting light on the corpses here before placing the flowers on them.
Cadmar 19(20) Wednesday November 26th, 2003 7:09:40 AM
Cadmar returns to pick up the three red flowers. "Strange. But then again, so is this whole place."
The ranger briefly puts one of the flowers under the spray, wondering if the strange mist has power to preserve their freshness.
Lorth Wednesday November 26th, 2003 8:48:15 AM
Lorth watches his friends, and keeps a look out about the room.
Elerinn Wednesday November 26th, 2003 5:13:35 PM
Elerinn watches Cadmar putting the flowers under the spray and if this has no affect, suggests putting a flower on one of the pedestals with the dead statues.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday November 27th, 2003 7:32:26 AM
Wynn confirms with the rest of the party that the splinter points back at the flowers and agrees with the various suggestions that have been offered. "If the spray freshens these flowers, perhaps we should try it on the plants we picked for Cassandra."
[ADM Bob] Thursday November 27th, 2003 7:45:33 AM
The party returns to the cast-off flowers lying on the floor. They still give off light, but strangely they only radiate for some 10 feet before their light is absorbed by the surrounding darkness.
As soon as Cadmar places a flower under the spray it starts to recover. The stem regains its turgor, the color of the flower grows more vibrant and the petals seem firmer.
Cadmar Thursday November 27th, 2003 8:04:42 AM
"Well, we probably should refresh the rest of the flowers." The ranger concentrates on doing what he suggested, watching the dead with some unease all the time.
Lorth Thursday November 27th, 2003 9:14:24 AM
Lorth keeps a good look at the bodies, watching them for movement. 'Perhaps this liquid raises people from the dead', he thinks.
Elerinn Thursday November 27th, 2003 12:05:48 PM
Elerinn holds the flower he picked in the spray, and thinks the same thing as Lorth. Although the idea of carrying the dead bodies to the spray disturbs him somewhat, he suggests that this could help, perhaps.
Garrard Thursday November 27th, 2003 1:14:04 PM
"Perhaps it simply repairs dead objects. Once picked, flowers are essentially dying or dead. Has the splinter changed since putting the flower on the body?"
Kedarn Friday November 28th, 2003 3:01:39 AM
Kedarn will cast 'deathwatch' then look at the bodies and at the flowers.
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=18 Friday November 28th, 2003 7:30:47 AM
Wynn rummages through his pack looking for the plants that were picked for Cassandra. Instead he finds one of the light absorbing mushrooms. It too is looking somewhat worse for wear. The bard places it beneath the spray of oil and searches his mind for any recollections of such a substance.[Bardic Knowledge / Knowledge Arcana = 18]
"Who has Cassandra's plants?" he asks the group.
ADM Bob Friday November 28th, 2003 7:40:58 AM
The party refreshes the rest of the flowers and a single 'darkshroom' while pondering the nature of the oil. Kedarn is able to determine that the corpses on slabs within his immediate vicinity [10' radius of sight]are indeed dead. Wynn believes the oil to be "Oil of Timelessness" and that it's properties are similar although not identical to the spell gentle repose.
The splinter now lies inert in Wynn's hand.
Garrard Friday November 28th, 2003 6:35:00 PM
Garrard states, "I have the plants, but I think the answer is with those flowers. Perhaps we should examine the flowers again, and search for hidden exist before we risk a limited resource like the salmonberry."
Wynn Brightsong Friday November 28th, 2003 11:06:21 PM
Wynn continues to rummage around in his pack and his belt pouches until he comes up with two empty vials [formerly contained CLW potions]. He carefully fills each of the vials with the Oil of Timelessness and replaces the stoppers.
"These might prove useful later" the bard says before replacing them in his belt pouch. "As for the flowers, surely they must be some kind of key like the mushrooms. One gives off light, the other absorbs it. I suggets we search the room until we find the lock that fits our key"
Cadmar 19(20) Monday December 1st, 2003 2:09:49 AM
"I don't know if the flowers are the key. It is equally possible that they will be useful later on."
Unless somebody objects Cadmar tries to push every pedestal, hoping that the exit is hidden under one of them.
Loth Monday December 1st, 2003 8:17:49 AM
Lorth gives Cadmar a hand with the pedetals, being sure not to disturb any of the bodies.
Elerinn Monday December 1st, 2003 10:02:12 AM
Elerinn waits what effect Cadmar's actions will have.
ADM Bob Monday December 1st, 2003 11:57:42 PM
Despite their efforts, the group finds no hidden exits among the pedestals, but as they make their way to the far end of the room the 10 foot circle of light falls upon a lattice covered archway. Upon closer inspection, the lattice seems to contain a key hole of strange design.
Andrath d20+10=24 Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 1:24:25 AM
Andrath suggests, "Try shining the light from one of the flowers at the light-absorbing mushrooms, and see what happens." If/while the party tries that, Andrath takes a close look at the strange keyhole on the lattice, trying to figure out what type of key would be needed to fit the hole. [OOC: Search check of 24].
Cadmar 19(20) Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 2:53:57 AM
The ranger is relieved. "For a moment I was worried that it was a dead end."
"Let's see, what could fit the lock? A flower? A bit of the mushroom? Both, combined? Do we still have the skeleton key? I mean the one from the skeleton bones? Let's try out all these combinations."
Elerinn Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 5:57:21 AM
Elerinn nods at all suggestions Cadmar gives, and adds one himself: "Perhaps the light itself could be a key? We could try pointing one of the flowers at the keyhole..."
Lorth Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 8:27:29 AM
Lorth says, "Good ideas all."
Garrard Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 5:44:31 PM
Garrard fetches one of the flowers, and once Andrath is done investigating and safely out of the way, shines the light from the flower into the keyhole.
If there is no reaction, Garrard then shines the flower at the mushroom he carries.
Kedarn d20+5=13 d20+3=9 Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 6:24:59 PM
Looking around trying to see if anything matches the shape of the keyhole. (spot 13, search 9)
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 11:03:11 PM
Wynn retrieves the mushroom from his pack and offers it to Cadmar for his experimentation.
A key at last [ADM Bob] Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 11:15:14 PM
Garrard and Cadmar try various combinations of flowers and mushrooms as a key but none seem to be the right shape. Andrath grows puzzled by their lack of success, untill Cadmar touches the darkshroom to one of the flowers. As soon as this is done, the darkshroom vanishes and the flower turns to glass. This new flower, when shone on the lock, illuminates it in black and white. In this new light, Andrath quickly recognizes that the lock has the same shape as the glass flower.
Andrath Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 12:41:03 AM
Andrath looks around the room (at least as far as he can see), and says, "Do we want to examine any of these corpses before we leave? In each of the past rooms, we had to interact with what was there. Is it enough to simply take some of the oil, or do we need to do anything else before we move on?"
Cadmar 19(20) Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 3:24:02 AM
"We searched the room itself very thoroughly. I don't know if touching the corpses will bring some trouble on our heads or not, but I'll help you if you like."
"Other than that, let's unlock the door and be on our way. This adventure is growing stranger and stranger with every minute. I don't think anyone in Jarlswolf will believe us when we tell what happened to us in the tower."
Lorth Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:12:39 AM
Lorth nods, "Yes lets vacate this place."
Elerinn Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:39:14 AM
"I'm glad we can continue to the next room, this place really disturbs me. I personally wouldn't object if we leave these souls be, but if anyone wants to investigate more, I will help him."
Elerinn is somewhat dissapointed when Cadmar states the people of Jarlswolf will not believe them. It feels somewhat unreal to be here, if this group is the only one who will ever now.
Kedarn Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 4:24:06 PM
"Lets not stay here any long." says Kedarn.
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 6:00:53 PM
Wynn takes a last look behind him and then heads for the lattice door. "I'm ready to move on" he proclaims, "let the dead rest undisturbed".
Opposing Ledges
Rest in Peace [ADM Bob] Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 9:52:05 PM
Andrath is out-voted by the group and at the groups urging, Cadmar places the key into the lock on the lattice door. The lattice evaporates before you and reveals a short set of rough hewn stairs leading up to a small balcony. You cannot tell what the balcony overlooks. There is a source of light somewhere ahead that provides dim light to the stairs themselves.
Andrath d20+10=18 Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 11:48:55 PM
Andrath says, "Fine,let's get going. I'm as eager as the rest of you to find Cassandra and get out of this crazy tower. Let's hope we find her shortly."
Andrath starts to climb the stairs to the balcony, keeping his eyes peeled for traps. [OOC: Search roll of 18] Assuming he finds no traps, he looks out from the balcony, to see what vista awaits.
Garrard Thursday December 4th, 2003 2:00:30 AM
Garrard eyes the staircase, and states quietly, this is far too easy, especially considering what we have had to go through to get here."
With that he checks his shield strapping, holds his scimitar at the ready and moves forward.
Elerinn Thursday December 4th, 2003 4:34:49 AM
Elerinn is glad the little trip through this place continues, and he can leave the dead bodies at peace. Looking at the balcony, he follows Andrath and Garrard towards it.
Lorth Thursday December 4th, 2003 7:21:25 AM
Lorth waits until all his companions have gone and guards the rear.
Cadmar 19(20) Thursday December 4th, 2003 7:26:45 AM
Cadmar moves on, letting Andrath go first and trying to make as little noise as possible. His weapon is drawn and his shield ready.
Kedarn Thursday December 4th, 2003 5:59:25 PM
Just before waling through Kedarn will turn and say a prayer to Gargul asking him to watch over the souls of those laid to rest here. After which Kedarn will follow the others.
Wynn Brightsong d20+2=21 Thursday December 4th, 2003 11:25:18 PM
Wynn follows up behind the group, keeping an eye open for any danger behind them [Spot=21]
The Final Curtain? [ADM Bob] d20+7=15 d20+7=24 d20+7=9 d20+7=21 d20+1=9 d20+1=21 d20+1=13 d20+1=7 Thursday December 4th, 2003 11:51:51 PM
Andrath leads the party up the stone stairs as quietly as he can. As he nears the top he can hear a muffled conversation somewhere ahead. The 'balcony' is actually an open ledge, 10 feet deep by 20 feet wide overlooking an open circular room some 100 feet across. Andrath cannot see the floor or the ceiling of the room, both of which continue at least 50 ' into darkness. A single arched window at the far side of the tower lets light in. Just below it lies a ledge. Three dwarven figures are deeply engrossed in conversation with what appears to be Cassandra.
[OOC Andrath please roll sneak and peek]
Andrath d20+10=29 d20+10=18 d20+9=16 Friday December 5th, 2003 12:00:17 AM
Andrath waves back down the stairs, trying to get anyone following to hold still. He drops quietly to his belly on the ledge, listening for what the dwarves are saying. [OOC: Hide 29, move silently 18, listen 16]
Cadmar Friday December 5th, 2003 2:35:22 AM
The ranger holds still. It is probably good that he can't see who is standing ahead on the balcony, for he might have trouble containing his enthusiasm and relief.
Elerinn Friday December 5th, 2003 6:25:49 AM
Elerinn waits for Andrath's return, afraid he might make any noise.
Kedarn Friday December 5th, 2003 8:01:46 AM
Kedarn waits for Andrath to return with information on what he sees.
Lorth Friday December 5th, 2003 9:58:37 AM
Lorth halts in his tracks, instinctively he wraps his arms around himself to keep his chainmail from clinking.
Andrath d20+14=26 d20+10=25 Friday December 5th, 2003 12:48:22 PM
[OOC: uncertain as to what I need to roll for a peek, I have rolled a spot 26, and a search 25.]
Wynn Brightsong d20+4=14 Friday December 5th, 2003 7:10:04 PM
Wynn continues bringing up the rear. When Andrath motions them to be still he stops dead and listens for whatever sounds he can hear [Listen=14]
Garrard Friday December 5th, 2003 10:59:42 PM
Garrard tries to freeze in place as Andrath sneaks forward. Silently, he prays for an end to this unreasoning place.
ADM Bob Friday December 5th, 2003 11:33:52 PM
Andrath flattens himself at the top of the stairs. He cannot make out the conversation from across the room, but he does notice four more dwarves suspended in mid-air, two on either side, some 35 feet from the balcony at 4 and 8 o'clock. They do not appear to have noticed the prone rogue.
Cadmar 19(20) Sunday December 7th, 2003 8:54:19 AM
The ranger bites his lip, not sure what is causing the delay.
Elerinn Sunday December 7th, 2003 9:14:36 AM
Elerinn looks at Andrath and it seems he discovered something out there. The gnome, who has a very hard time to control his breathing in this tense situation, notices the others are having the same feelings as himself. This calms him a bit, but he is still eager to find out what Andrath is looking at.
Wynn Brightsong Sunday December 7th, 2003 3:28:56 PM
Wynn maintains his silence at the bottom of the stairs and awaits word of what they are up against.
Garrard Monday December 8th, 2003 3:28:31 AM
As Garrard waits for some development or call to action, he looks over his companions. His face is unreadable as he does so, but he is clearly weighing each in turn.
After doing so, he closes his eyes for just a moment, seemingly gathering himself.
Lorth Monday December 8th, 2003 7:50:39 AM
Lorth stands as still as possible, trusting his friends to let him know when to act.
Andrath d20+2=4 Monday December 8th, 2003 1:05:07 PM
Not wanting to act rashly (something difficult for the usually impetuous elf), Andrath waits and watches. Are the dwarves threatening Cassandra? Does she look happy with her situation? Are the floating dwarves acting as guards in any way, or are they merely observing? Do the dwarves look to be standing on anything invisible, or are they in fact floating? Andrath waits a minute or so, very still, and tries to see through any illusions that might be in place. [OOC: But rolls a will save of 4, so he believes everything that he sees.] He tries to get a better sense of the overall sitaution before he acts.
Kedarn Monday December 8th, 2003 5:17:22 PM
Kedarn waits quietly for Andrath to let us know what is happening.
ADM Bob [Heated Conversation] d20+1=4 d20+1=12 d20+1=5 d20+1=20 d20+10=30 Monday December 8th, 2003 10:55:17 PM
From his prone position Andrath notes that the head dwarf and Cassandra appear to be in a heated conversation. The witch shakes her head as if to say "no" to the drawf's request.
On either side of the ledge on which stand the debators, there is a fountain from which spills a clear liquid.
Andrath notices the light glint off filaments running from the cieling to the top of the guard dwarf's heads. They are not so much standing on something, as suspended by these threads. As one of the dwarfs standing near Cassandra steps off the ledge, he does not fall, but remains suspended above the void as a thread immediatly appears above his head. He swings over to talk to the two guards to the left of Andrath.
[OOC: Andrath's Hide=30, nat. 20! PC's please roll your checks!)
Cadmar 19(20) Tuesday December 9th, 2003 2:27:24 AM
Cadmar is standing well behind Andrath, not close enough to see what is going on or be seen himself [or, if this is not the case, his Hide is currently at -1].
The ranger does not take this waiting too well. He starts to soundlessly tap his fingers on his cheek. His eyelid begins twitching.
Lorth d20=13 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 9:18:11 AM
Lorth is also down the stairs some. He doesn't try to hide much, but more stay silent. (Stay silent check 13)
Garrard d20-1=12 d20-1=9 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 3:41:27 PM
Garrard remains paused, standing quietly with his scimitar and shield careful held away from each other and the walls.
(Move silently: 12, hide: 9)
Kedarn d20+2=11 d20+2=21 d20+5=12 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 4:41:50 PM
Kedarn waits quietly for word from Andrath.
Move silently 11 Hide 21 listen 12
Elerinn d20+2=17 d20+2=10 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 4:48:53 PM
Elerinn remains hidden, trying to make no sounds.
Hide check: 17 Dexterity check(Didn't know what to roll, we are not moving so a move silently check seems a bit odd to me...):10
Andrath d20+10=22 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 5:14:30 PM
Andrath carefully backs off the platform and down to the rest of the party. [OOC: Move silently roll of 22.] He gathers the party around and briefly whispers what he has seen. "Apparently, the dwarves are attached by the threads hanging from the ceiling. It is possible that if we step off the ledge, one of these threads may attach to us as well. I suggest I grab my rope and charge over the edge. If a thread attaches to me, I will let the rope go and swing over to the other side to see what Cassandra and the dwarf are so heatedly discussing. And, if the thread does grab me, then it is likely that the rest of you can follow. If a thread doesn't grab me, then those of you holding the other end of the rope will have to haul me up, and then we will have to negotiate across the opening. Maybe we can buy Cassandra's release?"
The elf takes his backpack off, and fishes out his rope.
Wynn d20+3=8 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 11:37:43 PM
Wynn bides his time, at the back of the group. He tries to peer over the heads of those who are in front of him but doesn't see much.
Search=8
ADM Bob [Witch Way Now?] Wednesday December 10th, 2003 11:54:30 PM
After scouting for the group, Andrath returns and recounts what he has seen. There is a very large room where the cieling and floor are not visable. Some sort of a ledge projects from the walls. On the side opposite the group, the witch, Cassandra appears to be arguing with a dwarf. There is an arched window near the pair, which lets a little light into the huge room. Several guards are posted around the room. They appear able to cross the empty space between the ledge via a system of cords or filaments attatched to the cieling.
Andrath makes a proposal.
Party's initiative.
Cadmar Thursday December 11th, 2003 3:10:41 AM
Cadmar checks if the flowers are still capable of forming a bridge.
[Do I understand it right that the ledge runs in a circular pattern and it is possible to get to Cassandra by walking around on it? How wide is the ledge? How long is the distance that we would need to traverse to get to Cassandra?]
"Normally I would be very happy to avoid combat, but here the only thing that we have working for us is surprise. And somehow I doubt the dwarves will bargain with someone whom, in they opinion, they have beaten once already..."
"I have a seal that could allow us all to move very fast [lasts one round, whole party gets move 100, so we could traverse 200 in the first round]. We could use surprise to get to Cassandra and surround her. And then we could fight our way out."
Elerinn Thursday December 11th, 2003 5:03:26 AM
Elerinn consider both Andrath's and Cadmar's ideas, and remains quiet for a while, in doubt which of the suggestions is the best idea. When he has decided, he says: "It's a complicated situation, but I think we should follow your plan, Cadmar. I regret it, but I think Cadmar is right, these dwarves didn't seem very reasonable earlier."
Lorth Thursday December 11th, 2003 8:13:25 AM
"There is nothing to discuss with these marauders. For the good of travelers about the land, we should cut them down. I say we use the seal and quickly cross the room.", Lorth readies his warhammer and shield.
Garrard Thursday December 11th, 2003 12:15:47 PM
Garrard nods his assent to Cadmar, and readies himself.
Kedarn Thursday December 11th, 2003 5:46:11 PM
Kedarn listens to Cadmar and Andrath then tinks for a few moments. Kedarn then says "Ok, I will cover you with arrow fire as best I can while you try to get Cassandra as quickly as possible."
Andrath Thursday December 11th, 2003 11:26:17 PM
Andrath gives Cadmar a puzzled look. "Apparently, I don't think I described the situation properly. Let me tell you again. He goes on to describe the room again. [OOC: Here is the wording from Bob from a few posts ago: The 'balcony' is actually an open ledge, 10 feet deep by 20 feet wide overlooking an open circular room some 100 feet across. Andrath cannot see the floor or the ceiling of the room, both of which continue at least 50 ' into darkness. A single arched window at the far side of the tower lets light in. Just below it lies a ledge. Three dwarven figures are deeply engrossed in conversation with what appears to be Cassandra.]
"There is no ledge circling around the room, that I saw. There is a ledge on our side, and a ledge on the far side, with Cassandra and some of the dwarves. So, I think we are back to the original question. Do you want me, or do one of you, want to try and see if these threads will work for us as well?"
Wynn Thursday December 11th, 2003 11:51:39 PM
The bard will wrap the rope around his body, then around each of his hands, leaving a length with which Amdrath can secure himself. "Give it a go, scout!" he says with a nod to the elf.
ADM Bob [So Near...and Yet so Far!] Friday December 12th, 2003 12:16:59 AM
Cadmar gathers the flowers and checks to see if they will make a bridge. A bright beam of light shines out 60ft., certainly not long enough to reach the ledge on the other side, but bright enough to draw the attention of Cassandra and the two dwarves. One dwarf points, and yells, "There!" while the other, his hand grabbing Cassandra's arm shouts, "Not now! I need more time! She will soon see it our way!" The other dwarves, seeming to hang in space (2 to the right of the party (at 4 o'clock) and 3 to the left (at 8 o'clock) slowly turn to face the party.
Lorth, Garrard, and Kedarn prepare for what is to come, while Ellerin voices his opinion. Wynn braces himself for Andrath's next move.
Party's initiative.
Cadmar AC15 HP19(20) Friday December 12th, 2003 3:40:46 AM
[It seems I didn't understand the description of the room. Thanks for clarifying it, Greg. I was also under impression that the party was standing out of sight of the dwarves and only Andrath ever actually made visual contact with them.]
Cadmar curses himself for his stupid move, tears of anger on his face, drops the flowers, and helps Wynn with the rope.
[I was trying to exchange some e-mails with the rest of you; messages sent to jasper99@hotmail.com got bounced back. What is the new address I should use?]
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 26 Friday December 12th, 2003 7:50:09 AM
Lorth advances into the room, "You will unhand her immediately, or suffer the consequences of your evil actions." (OOC: If the dwarves do not let Cassandra go, Lorth starts advancing around the room on the ledge.)
Elerinn Friday December 12th, 2003 10:44:49 AM
Elerinn, who sees the dwarves turn to his direction, readies himself for what might come.
OOC: My new e-mail adress is: jvholsteij@antoniuscollege.nl
Kedarn Friday December 12th, 2003 3:54:20 PM
Kedarn will ready himself and the bow in case the dwarves move to attack. At that point Kedarn will fire at the one closing on him.
Wynn Brightsong Friday December 12th, 2003 10:30:50 PM
Wynn readies himself to take Andrath's weight on the other end of the rope. The sound of the mindose's cries of alarm reach his ears. "Asca mellonomin!" [Hurry my friend!]he calls to Andrath.
Wynn will unsheath his longsword as soon as it is clear that Andrath no longer requires his assistance on the rope. Otherwise he will pull Andrath to safety.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) Saturday December 13th, 2003 1:27:11 AM
Andrath draws his sword, and wraps his rope around his left arm. He nods to Wynn and Cadmar, hoping that they are adequately braced, and then he charges up the stairs and out, jumping from the balcony. If, as he hopes, a thread attaches to his head, and he can swing across the opening, he will drop the rope and try to swing to the far ledge and land beside Cassandra. However, if a thread does not materialize, Andrath will grip the rope, and call to be pulled up, using his climbing skill to help scrabble up the wall and back to the ledge.
ADM Bob [Watch that First Step] d20+2=9 d20+2=16 d3+2=4 d20+3=9 d20+3=19 d20+3=12 Saturday December 13th, 2003 11:09:12 PM
"Cadmar! Is that really you?" Cassandra cries out across the room. The presence of allies brings renewed courage and she struggles to free herself from the grasp of the dwarf that restrains her.
Andrath leaps from the ledge and is immediately supported by the appearance of a filament extending from the top of his head into the darkness above. He swings rapidly towards the ledge on the otherside of the room [Balance check DC 12 or fail to hold the ledge and swing back to your starting position]
Cadmar and Wynn feel the rope go slack and watch, jaws agape, as Andrath swings across the room.
The two dwarves suspended to the right of the ledge [Dwarfs #1 and #2 at 4 o'clock]react to their leader's command. They push off from the side wall and swing towards Lorth who stands perched at the edge of the ledge [note the ledge does not extend all the way around the room] The two dwarves swing feet first towards Lorth who manages to sidestep the first dwarf, only to move into the path of the second [Hit AC 9 and 16 respectivly for 4 dmg].
The three dwarves to the left of the ledge [#3, #4, and #5] all swing towards Cadmar and the rest of the party and two of them [#4 and #5] are able to land on the ledge, handaxes drawn and ready. The third fails to negotiate a landing and swings back into the room.
The two dwarves on the far ledge [#6 and #7] each take a protective stance in front of Cassandra. The head dwarf [#7] maintains a tight hold on Cassandra's arm.
Andrath (AC17, 16 hp) d20+7=13 d20-1=5 Sunday December 14th, 2003 10:34:02 PM
Andrath manages to land on the ledge on the far side, and keep his feet. He glares at the two dwarves, and orders, "Unhand the lady, you smelly runts! Don't you know it's not polite to manhandle a lady in that way, especially when she is clearly unwilling!"
If he still has an action, Andrath will swing the flat of his blade at the arm/hand of dwarf #7 that is gripping Cassandra. However, he misses [OOC: hit AC5, without the bonus of the magical sword. So, unless the sword is +10 or so, I presume the magical plusses won't be enought to make a difference.]
Cadmar AC17 HP19(20) d20-1=11 Monday December 15th, 2003 2:06:34 AM
"It's us! Hang on, we are coming!" Cadmar takes a deep breath and jumps across the room, trying to get to the ledge with Cassandra [move action, combine that with drawing a scimitar]. He almost makes it, but the weight of his chainmail pulls him back to where he was to begin with [Balance 11]. The ranger bites his lip in frustration, but seeing that he has a pair of angry dwarves breathing down his neck, he readies his shield [move action].
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 22/26 d20+4=14 d8+2=7 Monday December 15th, 2003 7:28:29 AM
Lorth sheathes his warhammer and readies his longsword (Move equiv. Action). He then attacks the nearest dwarf, if the nearest dwarf happens to be a swinging one with a filament above his head, Lorth attempts to cut it. (Hit AC: 14 Damage: 7)
Garrard d20+3=23 d20+3=8 d6+2=3 d6+2=4 Monday December 15th, 2003 2:04:18 PM
Garrard moves in to support Lorth, cutting at the same dwarf.
(Hit ac: 23 possible crit, but I doubt that will confirm. 3pts of damage.)
(edit. Its only a critical if the dwarf is AC:8. However, if for some reason the dwarf is, total damage is 7).
Kedarn (ac 16 hp:17) d20+4=17 d8=5 Monday December 15th, 2003 4:54:31 PM
Kedarn fires at the second dwarf that is advancing on Lorth and Garrard. (hit ac 17 (w/o bonuses from bow) dmg 5)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+5=10 Monday December 15th, 2003 5:40:03 PM
Wynn unsheaths his longsword and charges Kedarn's target [hit AC 10 - not likely]. He will dodge any return attack from the same dwarf [effective AC=17; +1 dodge,-2 charge]
Elerinn d20+4=18 d20=6 Monday December 15th, 2003 7:24:14 PM
Elerinn, who has been drained by his spellcasting from this frantic day, decides to tumble to get behind one of the dwarves, trying to flank him. He misses the dwarf with his dagger, but hopes his companion on the other side of the dwarf is able to strike the dwarf more precisely.
Tumble check: 18 Attack roll(+2 flank bonus): 6
DMs Bob & Carla d20=15 d20+2=17 d6+2=5 d6=3 d20=4 d20+7=20 d20+2=16 d6+2=5 d20=4 d20=7 d20=9 Monday December 15th, 2003 9:05:54 PM
Andrath's sudden appearance and challenge on the far ledge startles one dwarf (#6) who lashes out blindly at the rogue [hit AC=15 miss]. The head dwarf (#7) sneers at Andrath's weak attempt to affect Cassandra's freedom. He releases the witch and drives his fist into the elf's chest [hit AC 17; 5 dmg; Stunning Fist; Fort save vs. DC 15 or be stunned for 1 round] "Idle threats have no sway here, elf!"
Cadmar swings back towards the ledge where the remainder of the party is enjoined in combat.
Lorth and Garrard press home their attacks on dwarf#1 as he alights on the ledge. Lorth misses but the dwarf cannot escape Garrard's cruel strike [please roll your critical damage].
Kedarn's arrow flies true and catches dwarf#2 in the shoulder area. The dwarf takes a step back under the pain and somehow manages to avoid the charging 1/2 elf.
Elerinn bravely tumbles past Wynn and Dwarf#2. He comes to his feet precariously close to the edge of the ledge but in a position directly opposite Lorth, his dagger drawn in a menacing fashion.
Dwarf#1 retreats from the ledge under the force of Garrard's blows (unless of course the critical finishes him off). Dwarf#2 swings his handaxe wildly at Lorth missing badly , then tumbles past Wynn's right [Tumble=20].
Dwarf #4 charges Kedarn who has remained at a distance from the fray and plants a kick squarely into his midsection [5 dmg, Fort save vs DC 11 or be stunned for 1 round].
Dwarf #5 somersaults across the floor, launching his feet towards Garrard at the last minute, but fails to connect, leaving himself open to attack [Hit AC=4]
Dwarf #3 swings to intercept Cadmar as the ranger sails back towards the ledge but misses the mark and swings behind him [Hit AC=7]
Cassandra screams at the head dwarf and tries to restrain him from his next attack but fails in her attempt.
[OOC will send a battle map via e-mail]
Andrath (AC17, 12/17 hp) d20+2=8 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:27:24 AM
Andrath staggers from the dwarf's blow, trying to catch his breath. [OOC: missed the Fort save, so stunned for this round.] He gasps, "Cassandra, use your witch powers."
Garrard - AC: 17, Hp: 12 d20+3=9 d6+2=3 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:43:28 AM
Garrard quietly purses his lips and steps to the side of the dwarf, trying to seize a flanking advantage.
(Ac: 9 if not flanking, AC: 11 if flanking. If that hits, 3pts of damage.)
Cadmar AC17 HP19(20) d20-3=15 d20+3=5 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 2:27:28 AM
Cadmar, in best swashbuckling fashion, jumps over the chasm [move action?]. This time, despite the extra weight of his armor and shield, he manages to land on the opposite ledge. His boots touch the stone with a heavy thud [Balance 15].
If it is possible he swings at dwarf #1 as he passes him [standard action], but he misses badly due to lack of balance [attack hits AC5].
[Cadmar aimed to land SE of #7.]
Kedarn (ac 16 hp:12/17) (fort save) d20+6=16 (attack) d20+1=3 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 7:08:16 AM
Kedarn winces from the kick to the gut dropping the bow. Kedarn then pulls his longsword and swings at the dwarf that just kicked him missing badly (hit ac 3.)
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 22/26 d20+4=24 d20+4=11 d8+2=7 d8+2=4 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 7:51:54 AM
(I got the map email, but for some reason no map was in it :( )
Lorth moves if he has to and attacks the nearest dwarf. He brings himself into flanking position if possible also. With a grunt of determination he swings down heavily at his target...
(Hit: AC 24 (Natural 20), Crit chance AC 11 (13 if flanking). Damage: 7, 11 if crit.)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+3=20 d8+2=10 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:12:19 PM
Wynn pursues dwarf #2 who had slipped to his right and slashes at him, cutting deep into the dwarf [Hit AC=20 for 10 dmg]
DM Bob & Carla d20=13 d20=11 d20-2=10 d20-2=10 d20=11 d8+1=5 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 11:38:34 PM
As Cadmar gains foothold on the ledge near the dwarf leader Cassandra struggles harder to free herself, but to no avail. "Hold still witch!" exclaims the dwarf leader. He turns his back on Andrath to maintain his hold on Cassandra. The second dwarf on the ledge (#6)pushes past Andrath, knocking him off the ledge to get at Cadmar but fails to connect [hit AC=13]. Andrath swings away from Cassandra and back towards the rest of the party.
On the southern ledge Wynn strikes down a dwarf (#2) inflicting a fatal wound. Another dwarf wearing pink and black striped leggings (#3)swings in to attack Elerinn but misjudges his approach [Hit AC=11] and tumbles to the ground at Lorth's feet. The dwarf attacking Kedarn (#4) attempts two roundhouse punches which are easily deflected (Hit AC=10 and 10] but fails to notice Lorth approaching and shouts in pain as Lorth's blade slices across his ribs and ruins his rose and gray checked blouse. Garrard swings high on the dwarf that rolled towards him (#5) but manages to avoid a kick aimed at his groin[Hit AC=11]. The dwarf previously injured by Garrard (#1) and now suspended away from the ledge reaches into his robes and tips the contents of a small vial down his throat.
[OOC new map to follow by e-mail]
Andrath (AC17, 11/16 hp) d20+4=13 d8+3=9 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 12:13:46 AM
Andrath swings back beside dwarf #7 and Cassandra, and swings at the obnoxious little fellow with his new, magical sword. [OOC: Hit AC 13 without the addition of the sword's plusses, if any, for 9 hp damage, again without any possible sword's plusses.]
[NOTE: Also, since dwarf #7 is holding Cassandra against her will, I suggest that he is in fact grappling with her, which means that he loses his dex bonus, if any, to his AC, and he must take a significant penalty to swing at someone outside the grapple, like Andrath. Otherwise, why can't she just pull free?]
"Unhand the lady, you son of an otyugh. If you and your smelly little friends give up now, my friends and I will show you mercy and let you leave without further harm."
Cadmar AC17 HP19(20) d20+3=10 d6=4 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 2:12:12 AM
Cadmar moves away from the edge of the ledge and closer to Cassandra [5ft step; I have problems reading .doc files. If possible Cadmar flanks #7 with Andrath]. The ranger thrusts his scimitar at the kidnapper [Hitting AC10 or AC12 if flanking, 4 damage].
"Leave her be, you lunatic, or I'll make a doormat out of your beard!"
Kedarn (ac 16 hp:12/17) d20+1=2 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 4:57:22 AM
Kedarn takes another swing at the dwarf (#4) with his longsword missing terribly (hit ac 2, rolled a nat 1.)
Elerinn (AC: 15 HP: 7) Wednesday December 17th, 2003 6:45:37 AM
Elerinn can't resist, even in this dangerous situation, smiling when he hears Cadmar taunting the dwarf. But he sees the dwarf in front of him and realizes this is no time for jokes. He swings his dagger at the dwarf's doormat, trying to hit him.
OOC: Attack: 17 Damage: 1(1d3-2, I didn't use the dices for this one)
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 22/26 d20+4=18 d8+2=9 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 7:48:29 AM
Lorth ignors the dwarf at his feet and continues his assault on the one he previously wounded.
(Hit AC: 18 Damage: 9)
Garrard - AC: 17, hp: 12 d20+3=20 d6+2=3 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 5:24:23 PM
Garrard calls out, "Anyone in trouble?", and then follows up with another swing at the dwarf before him.
(AC: 20 to hit. 3pts of damage)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+3=6 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 7:16:23 PM
Wynn watches the dwarf before him drop to the ground and turns to see Elerinn, armed only with a dagger, engaged in close melee with a dwarf (#3). He takes two quick steps towards the dwarf and swings, but succeeeds only in briefly distracting the dwarf's attention from Elerinn [Hit AC=6, not flanking]
DM Bob & Carla d20=2 d20+2=17 d6+2=7 d20=16 d20=2 d20+2=22 d20+2=22 d6+2=8 d6+2=8 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 8:13:24 PM
The pitched battle between the party and the dwarves of Boydos shows no signs of abating. Dwarves clad in pink, gray and black tumble and weave, striking out at the party members.
Andrath swings back onto the far ledge to attack the head dwarf holding on to Cassandra. The second dwarf on the ledge swings at him as he passes but to no avail [Hit AC=2]. The Rogue's blade cuts deep into the dwarf causing him to drop his hold on the young witch who drops to the floor dazed and confused. His robe is rapidly stained with a growing circle of blood. Cadmar manages to flank the now injured leader of the dwarves but fails to take advantage of the situation.
Despite his injuries the dwarven leader (#7) lashes out at Andrath in retaliation, striking him solidly in the temple with a closed fist [Hit AC=17 for 7 dmg, Will save vs DC 15 or stunned for 1 round]. "You dare interfere with the work of Boydos! Annoy me no further foolish elf!." Cadmar is beset by the other dwarf (#6) but manages to fend of it's blow at the last second [Hit AC=16].
The battle on the southern ledge rages on. Kedarn seems to be on his heels. Harried by the flurry of blows issuing from the dwarf(#4) and unable to get proper purchase he misses wildly again and hopes he can at least keep his agressor at bay. Lorth steps slightly to one side and hammers his sword down on Kedarn's foe. The dwarf looks back for but an instant, the look of death already in his eyes, and drops to the stone floor of the ledge.
Elerinn, deadly serious, steps beneath the defense of the dwarf facing him (#3) and slips his dagger into the midriff of his opponent. The dagger glistens with blood as he pulls it out and the dwarf steps back avoiding Wynn's bloodied blade.
Garrard finally connects with his opponent although the dwarf (#5) recovers quickly and lashes out with his clenched fist [Hit AC=2]. The dwarf winces in pain and frustration.
Finally, dwarf (#1)swings in at Garrard and hits him with two feet squarely in the chest (Hit AC=22 Critical for 16 dmg) and drops him to the floor.
Andrath (AC17, 4/16 hp,stunned) d20+2=7 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 10:17:58 PM
Stars flash before Andrath's eyes as the blow from the dwarf strikes true. [OOC: missed the Will save, so stunned for one round.] His sword drops from his nerveless fingers, as he mumbles, "This is getting a little old..."
Cadmar AC19 HP19(20) d20+1=9 Thursday December 18th, 2003 2:15:29 AM
Cadmar assumes a defensive style of fighting [Combat Expertise +2/-2]. He tries to strike at the dwarf leader, but the enemy manages to jump away in time [hits AC9]. The ranger moves even further away from the edge [5ft step] and closer to Cassandra. "No, it is your Boydos who dares to grasp for people protected by Domi! Very few get a chance to make this mistake twice!"
Garrard - AC: 6, hp: -4, prone, unconscious Thursday December 18th, 2003 4:56:15 AM
Garrard is spun halfway around by the force of the newcomers blow, landing facedown on the stone floor with a clattering, ungainly impact. He is clearly unconscious, and bleeding heavily from his wound.
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 22/26 d20+4=10 d8+2=4 Thursday December 18th, 2003 8:06:28 AM
Lorth attempts to step sideway around dwarf #3 to try and get to Garrard. (If I get there this round, I lay on hands for: 6) (If I don't get there this round, I attack dwarf #3, Hit AC: 10 Damage: 4)
Kedarn (ac 16 hp:12/17) d20+1=2 Thursday December 18th, 2003 8:37:22 AM
Seeing Garrard drop Kedarn looses his cool and steps into the fight with dwarf #3 and takes a swing at him issing badly (hit ac 2.)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+3=19 d8+2=6 Thursday December 18th, 2003 10:05:16 PM
Wynn steps away from his previous foe (#3)and goes to the aid of the embattled cleric. His sword slices down on (#5) [Hit AC=21 (flanking) for 6 dmg]
"I'll handle this one! You assist Garrard before he is lost!"
Wynn's eyes gleam bright with the excitement of battle as he prepares to avoid retaliation from Dwarf #5 [Dodge - effective AC=19]
DM Bob & Carla d20=16 d6+2=8 d20=16 d20=8 d20=2 d20=5 d20=9 Thursday December 18th, 2003 11:41:02 PM
Lorth manages to slip past Dwarf #3 and lays hands on Garrard who begins to waken. However, Dwarf #1 slips to the prone druid's right and punches Lorth with all his force, doubling the paladin over [Hit AC=16 for 8 dmg]
Dwarf #5 turns his attention from Kedarn to Wynn and slashes at him with a handaxe. The bard manages to dodge the blow [Hit AC=16] . The dwarf's eyes glare at him in anger and frustration.
Elerinn manages to avoid a poorly timed attack by dwarf #3 [Hit AC=8].
On the far ledge, both dwarves ignore the motionless and unarmed elf and move in on Cadmar. Whether it is the plight of their fellow mindoses on the other ledge, or just good fortune smiling on the ranger, both miss wildly [Hit AC 2,5, and 9].
Cassandra latches on to Cadmar's arm. "Please" she begs, "take me from here."
Andrath (AC17, 10/16 hp) d8+1=6 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:01:57 AM
Andrath shifts 5 feet to his left, away from the 2 dwarves on the far ledge [OOC: to avoid any attack of opportunity], and pulls his cure potion out of his belt pouch. He quickly drinks the potion, absorbing its healing into his damaged body. He says, "Cassandra, you need to let Caddmar go, and we will get you out of here as fast as possible."
Garrard: AC: 17: Hp: 2 Friday December 19th, 2003 1:16:01 AM
Garrard forces himself to his feet, grimly smiling to Lorth before taking up his scimitar and shield again.
Cadmar AC19 HP19(20) d20+7=9 d20-1=2 Friday December 19th, 2003 2:34:49 AM
"We'll take you out of here in just a few moments, I promise! But we can't leave these ruffians behind to kidnap another woman, can we?"
Even though he is wearing chain and leather vest, as soon as Cassandra's touches his arm the ranger feels a wave of heat that spreads over his body. His face goes red and he loses his concentration, not as much from restriction of his moves, but because of emotional distraction [Concentration check was 9, I would say it is -2 to hit for the next few rounds].
He continues to defend himself the best he can [Expertise 2] and, just to keep the enemies on their toes and away from Andrath, attempts another strike, but this one too misses widely [Hits AC2].
Cadmar steps in front of Cassandra hoping that she will be safe between his back and the wall. At least until the dwarves are dealt with [5ft step, technically it is moving into Cassandra's square, but if she hides behind his back there should be enough space to accomodate them both. If that is not possible he remains where he is].
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 14/26 d20+4=19 d8+2=3 Friday December 19th, 2003 7:33:00 AM
Lorth struggles to his feet after having the wind knocked out of him. He glares at the dwarf that hit him, but decides to try and get flanking on/and finish off dwarf #3 first. (Hit AC: 19 (21 if flanking) Damage: 3)
Elerinn (AC: 12 HP: 7) d20=7 Friday December 19th, 2003 8:30:05 AM
Elerinn tries to hit the dwarf in front of him again. After Garrard's revival, he feels less afraid, but he isn't able to hit the dwarf this time.
OOC:(In my previous post, I mistyped my AC, which is 12, instead of 15.)
(I'm sorry I didn't post yesterday, my grandfather died while sleeping, after a long and good life)
Kedarn (ac 16 hp 12/17) d8+1=4 Friday December 19th, 2003 5:23:32 PM
Kedarn steps over to Garrard and uses the wand of CLW healing him. (heals 4hp)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+3=19 d8+2=7 d20+5=14 Friday December 19th, 2003 7:23:16 PM
Wynn slashes again at the dwarf between Kedarn and himself (#5) striking the dwarf across the throat. The astonished dwarf drops like a stone into a pool of it's own blood [Hit AC=19 for 7 dmg]. The bard then steps towards Elerinn who may have outrun his luck.
"Have at me dwarf" Wynn yells to distract Elerinn's foe, "Die for Boydos, or whatever you call this false god". Wynn hopes to anger the dwarf into attacking him [bluff=14] and prepares to dodge any strike from dwarf#3 [effective AC=19].
DM Bob & Carla [Evening the Odds] d20=19 d6+2=8 d20+2=3 d10=10 d20=10 d20=11 d8+3=5 Friday December 19th, 2003 10:45:21 PM
Andrath steps away from the fray and consumes a healing potion while Cadmar steps between Cassandra and her captors. The bold move provokes attacks from the the two dwarves. The lead dwarf (#7) seems tentative as if concerned about injuring Cassandra and misses badly, but his minion (#6)is far more prejudicial and strikes Cadmar squarely in the belly [Hit DC 19 for 8 dmg] doubling him over.
The battle fares less well on the opposite ledge as Wynn slays Kedarns assailant (#5) and Lorth strikes home against the dwarf threatening Elerinn (#3). A weakened Garrard struggles to his feet when Kedarn touches him with a wand and he feels his strength return, a warm glow radiating from the point of contact.
Wynn's taunting has it's intended effect and Elerinn's assailant turns on the bard, striking out in righteous fury. Anger and frustration cloud his mind and ruin his aim [Hit AC=10]. The remaining mindose swings at the revived druid but fails to make contact [Hit AC=11].
Cassandra finally seems to shake the influence of her dwarven captors and with a shakey incantation and a wave of her hand casts a spell on Cadmar [Cure Light Wounds for 5 HP]
Andrath (AC17, 10/16 hp) d20+5=25 d20+5=24 d8+3=10 d8+3=11 d6=4 Saturday December 20th, 2003 1:16:33 AM
Andrath says to Cadmar, "Shift 5 feet to your left before you attack. That way, I can shift 5 feet to my right, pick up my sword, and attack with us flanking dwarf #7.
Andrath waits for Cadmar to take his action, then shifts to his right, picks up the longsword he dropped earlier, and strikes a terrific blow to dwarf #7. [OOC: If flanking, critical hit vs AC25, confirmed with hitting AC24 (plus whatever magical sword bonus for both rolls), doing 25 total damage (plus double the sword magical damage). Even if Cadmar does not flank, Andrath still critical hits AC23, confirmed with hitting AC22 (plus sword magical bonus for both), doing 21 points of damage (plus double the sword magical damage.]
Garrard, ac: 17, hp: 6 remaining of 12 d20+3=18 d6+2=7 Saturday December 20th, 2003 2:14:30 AM
Seeing the battle turn, Garrard digs deep for additional effort, and assaults the dwarf before him again. His blow seems a good one.
(Hit ac 18 for 7 pts of damage)
Cadmar AC17 HP16(20) d20+3=12 d6=6 Saturday December 20th, 2003 3:55:59 AM
The ranger feels something snap under his chain and wonders briefly (for the second time today!) if he has a broken rib, but the healing of Cassandra makes the pain go away. The brutal blow forces him to focus on the combat once again.
He is somewhat recultant to leave the witch unprotected, but seeing that the dwarves try to avoid doing her harm he decides to take this risk. He steps to the side [5ft step E] and waits for Andrath to get ready [delay until Andrath acts]. Once the dwarf is flanked and Andrath has struck, Cadmar follows with an attack of his own.
[If the dwarf leader is not disabled after Andrath's blow Cadmar strikes at him hitting AC14 for 6 damage. If the leader has been removed from combat Cadmar instead directs this attack at the remaining underling, hitting AC12 for 6 damage.]
"I kinda feel sorry for them. Crazy, true, but in a sad way." passes through his head.
"Surrender and you will face justice! Continue fighting, and you will face death at our hands!"
Kedarn (ac 16 hp 12/17) d8+1=9 Saturday December 20th, 2003 4:02:15 PM
Kedarn touches Garrard again with the wand healing him (9hp.)
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] d20+5=6 Sunday December 21st, 2003 7:30:41 PM
Wynn steps to his right to flank the dwarf threatening Lorth, but fails to strike him with a poorly timed blow [Hiy AC 6; nat 1]. The bard continues to dodge any returned aggression from his target [effective AC=19].
Elerinn (AC: 12 HP: 7) d20=6 Monday December 22nd, 2003 7:02:04 AM
Elerinn reminds himself to thank Wynn later, and silently thanks Wardd for his luck. He tries to hit the dwarf again, who has turned on Wynn. This time, however, he misses.
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 14/26 d20+4=17 d8+2=3 Monday December 22nd, 2003 8:19:42 AM
Lorth attacks the dwarf nearest to him.
(Hit AC: 17, Damage: 3)
DM Bob & Carla [Surrender] Monday December 22nd, 2003 5:32:06 PM
On the far ledge, Andrath and Cadmar orchestrate a deadly attack on the lead dwarf. Andrath's blow nearly cleaves the dwarf in two, and there is no doubt in either of their minds that this dwarf will not rise again. Cadmar swings at the remaining dwarf (#6) but fails to make contact.
On the otherside of the cavernous room a dwindling number of dwarven mindoses occupies the remainder of the party. Garrard finally metes out some retribution to dwarf #1 and Lorth succeeds in wounding his foe(#3)
STOP! yells out the remaining dwarf on the ledge near Cassandra STOP NOW! The dwarf takes a step away from Cadmar and Andrath and yells something in dwarven. The two remaining mindoses on the other ledge simultaneously disengage from combat.
"You have entered our holy sanctum and killed the follower's of Boydos" he weeps. "Take your witch and leave us to tend our dead." He sobs and kneels by the dead dwarf at Andrath's feet, "We did her no harm, she would have gained so much here..." The dwarf goes silent and begins to minister to the dead.
Kedarn Monday December 22nd, 2003 5:59:34 PM
Kedarn quietly says "Gargul take these fallen souls safely to their resting place."
Kedarn will then call out to Cassandra "Are you okay?" Then to the others Kedarn will ask "who is of need of some healing?"
Garrard Monday December 22nd, 2003 6:05:12 PM
His eyes hard, Garrard steps back to stand shoulder to shoulder with Lorth. Hes clearly not convinced this isn't some kind of ruse. He keeps his shield low and ready, protecting his lower torso and knees, and casually rests his scimitar palm down on his upper chest, the blade projecting over his right shoulder.
"Had your intent been peaceful, you might have considered negotiation, or conversation originally. To assume people are yours to take, imprison, and enchant,... that is the way of the bandit, the criminal. Rather than shed tears and play the wounded, perhaps you should explain yourself."
Garrard swallows slowly, and then asks over his shoulder, never taking his eyes from the nearby dwarves.
"Cassandra, are you well? What are you wishes, after the treatment you have been subjected to?"
Elerinn Monday December 22nd, 2003 6:33:12 PM
Elerinn, who is glad the conflict has ended with a somewhat peacefull solution, walks to Cassandra and asks if everything is allright. After that, he asks the witch if she can explain what the dwarf means. Does she has any idea why the dwarves kidnapped her?
Andrath (AC17, 10/16 hp) Monday December 22nd, 2003 8:28:42 PM
Andrath addresses dwarf #6, "When we first arrived, we gave you the option to release our companion. You chose to fight us, and have thus paid the price. Now, if you will just pay us your losers' ransom (I figure about 100 gp each, for a total of 900 gp in cash or equivalent) and tell us how to get out, then we will be on our way."
Cadmar Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 2:51:46 AM
The ranger can't suppress the feeling of relief. He slings his shield over his back and sheathes his scimitar. The blade is clean - despite his efforts, he didn't manage to hurt a single dwarf.
Cadmar turns to Cassandra and takes a step towards her as if to hug her, but doesn't dare and stops two steps away. "Um, are you all right? What happened to you? What did they want?"
The ranger looks behind and is relieved to see all of his friends on their feet.
"As for the exit, the window might do." Cadmar looks out of it and tries to estimate the distance to the ground.
"The problem is, what are we going to do with the dwarves? If we leave them here they are going to try to kidnap others to convert them to worship Boydos. Let them tend to their dead, I say, and then let's take them to Jarlswolf. There might be other families there who suffered from their actions. If nobody rises any charges against them we can let them go."
Lorth Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 7:17:41 AM
Lorth stands near Garrard also waiting for some kind of trick. "Cadmar, I support your idea. We should bring them to Jarlswolf to face justice for kidnapping."
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 4:07:35 PM
Wynn sheathes his sword but keeps a close eye on the remaining dwarves.
Cassandra Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 6:05:21 PM
Cassandra shows no shyness and again latches on to Cadmar. "They did not harm me...they only wanted to...well they were trying to convince me that I could become more powerful should I serve Boydos..." She looks around at the rest of the group "Thanks to all of you for coming after me...I was worried that I would never get out of here..."
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 11:02:10 PM
The dwarven mindose looks up at Andrath from his kneeling position over the corpse of his leader, "You mistake us for a wealthy brotherhood, yet we have each taken a vow of poverty. We do not have the ransom you seek."
The dwarf strips the body of his leader and, if allowed, gently carries the naked corpse across the room to the far ledge. There the other mindoses perform similar ministrations to the dead. Each deceased mindose is stripped naked like the corpses on the alabaster slabs you had previously seen. "Please, allow us to place our brothers at rest."
Andrath d20+4=17 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 12:08:54 AM
"Before we let you continue, you must explain yourselves. Why did you capture and hold our lady friend? What or who is this tower? Who is Boydos? If we leave you here, how do we know that you won't kidnap another person?"
If the dwarves refuse to talk, then Andrath will move to physically restrain one of them. {OOC: Grapple check of 17, if necessary.]
Cadmar Wednesday December 24th, 2003 2:55:05 AM
Cadmar can't help but feel pangs of guilt. True, they have taken Cassandra, and true, a moment before he was ready to shed their blood. But now, seeing them defeated and in grief does not give him any feeling of accomplishment. He starts to suspect that he is going to regret that the matter was not resolved in some other way. Still, how were they to know that the head dwarf won't simply place a knife at her throat and take her hostage?...
And then he feels Cassandra's arm on his own and quite forgets about the rest of the world.
Lorth Wednesday December 24th, 2003 7:35:44 AM
Lorth has no pangs of guilt or change in resolve. They attacked us, he thinks. We were just passing by. "They should be brought to justice.", he says simply.
Elerinn Wednesday December 24th, 2003 10:28:33 AM
Elerinn smiles when he sees Cadmar being enchanted by Cassandra. The difference between his happiness and the dwarves sorrow makes him feel sad about attacking the dwarves, like some of the others. Looking at the dwarves, stripped of clothes and honor, Elerinn hopes Gargul will be mercifull.
Garrard Wednesday December 24th, 2003 3:11:02 PM
As the ministrations to the dead begin, Garrard kneels down in place, his scimitar and shield still at a relaxed ready high and low.
He watches them gather up the bodies, and states, "I agree with the questions asked. Perhaps I could add that the more of an understanding we come away with here, the less chance there is that... regrettable actions and violence will be undertaken in the future. I can see this being an advantage to the dwarves and others here serving Boydos, and the nearby communities."
Garrard pauses for a moment in thought, and then asks, "While I realize your immediate leadership is disrupted, I think an understanding of purpose, territory, and diplomacy might be the best that can come out of this situation. That way, at the verty least, we can feel more secure in leaving this place in peace."
With that Garrard lowers his voice and states, "If there is to be actual diplomacy of terms, someone else should probably undertake that effort. It is beyond my skills."
Kedarn d20+3=15 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 6:10:17 PM
Kedarn says to the current leader of the dwarves "We need to have an agreement between the followers of Boydos and the Neighboring communities. Please come with us to Jarlswolf so that one can be implemented so that further incidents can be avoided." (diplomacy 15)
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday December 24th, 2003 7:52:12 PM
While the rest of the party negotiates a diplomatic settlement, Wynn pokes around the large room for a way out, or anything else of interest.[Take 20 - Search = 23]
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday December 24th, 2003 8:22:11 PM
The dwarves complete preparations for their fallen and ask to remove them to the "Hall of Waiting".
Their explanations of Boydos and the tower are fragmented and confused. They have been called to the tower from afar and cannot tell you how long they have been there, although it is surely after the Jarl were defeated. The very small amount of oral history suggests that their followers were persecuted by the Jarl and butchered in large numbers. Boydos would appear to be some kind of powerful being that sleeps beneath the tower, although the mindoses believe him/it to be a god.
The mindose tending to the corpse of the former leader looks aghast when asked to accompany the group to Jarlswolf. "We cannot leave the area of the tower...we have sworn to serve Boydos...we cannot leave! Besides, if Boydos were to awake, we would not be able to accompany him to the final destination!"
Cassandra adds that the dwarves did her no harm and promised her that if she would but stay in the tower and serve Boydos her powers would be increased.
The mindoses pick up the naked corpses of their fallen comrades and move towards the stairs leading back to the 'morgue' that the party had so recently left.
Wynn looks out of the window on the far ledge. A gentle snow falls outside, covering the surrounding landscape in a blanket of clean, white snow. He feels at peace, and a growing sense of compassion envelops him. A single bright star shines brightly enough to penetrate the cloudy, snow filled sky.
Cadmar Thursday December 25th, 2003 4:43:30 AM
"I don't like the way this Boydos sounds. Reminds me uncomfortably of some kind of daemon. I think at least one of the dwarves should accompany us to Jarlswolf to give a detailed explanation to..."
He hesitates. To whom? The Pitchfork Council? What would they care? To whom else, then?
"...to Dulcet. She seems to know a lot about what is going on in the land."
And, of course, this would mean Cassandra would be around for a bit longer.
Garrard Thursday December 25th, 2003 5:39:19 AM
Garrard looks uncomfortable and unhappy for a moment, and suggests, "Cassandra, you undoubtedly have more authority in Jarlswolf than we. Would you be interested or willing in assisting in gathering the basis for diplomacy from these people and presenting it when we get back? I cannot help but feel that without such, the veents that occured to us will befall others. Whether that becomes to the detriment of those persons, or these dwarves, more bloodshed isn't necessary here."
Kedarn Thursday December 25th, 2003 3:21:20 PM
Kedarn will ask one of the dwarves "which is the way out of the tower?"
Elerinn d20=10 Thursday December 25th, 2003 6:18:25 PM
Elerinn ponders for a moment and then asks the dwarves if any of them has ever seen Boydos, and if this is true, how he looks. Taking one of the dwarves with them to Jarlswolf seems a bad idea to him, because he would probably only go with them using force.
When Elerinn sees Wynn's peacefull face, he walks towards him and looks outside. The snow gives him a similar tranquil feeling, although it is somehow accompanied by a feeling of loss, of melancholy. "How beautifull...", Elerinn whispers, but feels stupid that this is the only thing he can think of.
Lorth Friday December 26th, 2003 12:33:02 PM
Lorth shrugs, "If everyone just wants to let them go about their business, so be it. Although, I have to say I disagree."
Andrath Saturday December 27th, 2003 12:31:07 PM
Andrath is still not happy with the dwarfs' explanations. "How do we know, if we leave you here, that you won't kidnap another poor helpless soul and bring them to the tower, against their will? It was lucky that Cassandra had us to chase after her and bring her back. Maybe your next victim won't be quite so lucky?"
Wynn Brightsong d20+2=3 Saturday December 27th, 2003 4:26:34 PM
Wynn gazes a little longer out the window as the snow continues to fall. "Yes Elerinn, it is beautiful isn't it." He casts his eyes about the room, taking in his surroundings [Spot=2] but his gaze falls back to the fountains on either side of the window.
"What flows from these fountains?" he calls out to the Mindoses.
DM Bob & Carla Saturday December 27th, 2003 4:36:40 PM
"Chose to believe or chose not to believe, either way we are bound to Boydos and this tower." The Dwarf (#6)continues towards the stairs with the naked corpse of his leader. "We cannot leave this place until Boydos awakens and takes us with him. Leave us in peace, your way out is through the window."
The remaining mindoses, walk down the stairs towards the hall of the dead, carrying the naked corpses of their fallen bretheren...and each in turn dissappears into thin air. All that remains of the mindoses are their robes and handaxes lying about the ledge.
Andrath Sunday December 28th, 2003 12:33:32 AM
Andrath moves around, picking up the cloaks and the hand axes left behind by the dwarves. "It appears our discussion about what to do with the dwarves has come to a rather abrupt end, and the decision has been taken out of our hands, in any event. I propose we let Cassandra notify the people in Jarlswolf, once we get back. Hopefully, the witches will know what to do with this crazy tower, and its 'Boydos'. I figure we can take these cloaks and axes as ransom payment. So, shall we leave?"
After gathering up all the cloaks and handaxes, Andrath pulls his rope out of his backpack, and moves over to the window, to figure out how far it is to the ground and to rig up the rope if it will reach.
Cadmar Sunday December 28th, 2003 3:07:16 AM
"Yes, let's move out. There is something unwholesome about this place. The sooner we leave it behind our backs the happier I will be."
Cadmar helps to collect the weapons and to set up a descent through the window.
"Let's see, we could lower most of us on a harness made of rope and then the more agile of us could climb down?"
Elerinn Monday December 29th, 2003 4:15:50 AM
Elerinn continues to look outside, glancing back at the others occassionally. He hopes there will be no further problems reaching Jarlswolf. Elerinn feels tired, which is a rare thing.
The little gnome watches Andrath lowering the rope and agrees with Cadmar. "I think I need a little help getting out of this tower, I can't climb really good. Is there anyone who is able to climb down the tower, so he can lower the rest of us in a harness?"
Kedarn Monday December 29th, 2003 4:28:14 AM
Kedarn helps ready a rope so that the group can leave. Once it is done Kedarn will say "Andrath you go first, followed by Cadmar, then Wynn. Cassandra you and Elerinn will go next then, Lorth, Garrard and I will come last. I will cover you from here with the bow."
Lorth Monday December 29th, 2003 7:46:30 AM
Lorth waits his turn to go down the rope.
Wynn Brightsong [ AC 18; HP 14] Monday December 29th, 2003 12:04:47 PM
"Hey lads!" Wynn calls out to the group, "Does anyone have an empty container, whatever comes from these fountains is not water! I would like to take some with us." If no containers are offered, Wynnn will empty is waterskin and fill it from the fountain to the left of the window. Otherwise he will try and take samples from both fountains.
DM Bob & Carla Monday December 29th, 2003 12:14:17 PM
Andrath and Cadmar collect the robes and weapons of the defeated dwarves, four robes and 4 handaxes, each with a leather belt. Wynn calls out for containers and begins filling his now empty waterskin with the slightly amber colored liquid flowing through the fountain to the left of the window.
Elerinn, watches Andrath lower his rope and can readily see that the rope is not long enough on it's own. The window must be at least 70-80 feet above the ground. He does see a small figure standing at the bottom of the tower waving it's arms and shouting something. The word's are lost in the swirling snow.
[OOC please welcome Krshna to the party]
Garrard Monday December 29th, 2003 1:32:46 PM
Garrard states, "I believe Lorth is right. We need something more here, be it taking them to justice, an agreement of their future action, or something else. Suggestions?"
Kedarn d20+3=17 Monday December 29th, 2003 3:54:25 PM
Kedarn looks to Garrard then says "I will go talk with them and try to get an agreement from them to not harase additional travellers in the area, and ask them to send a representative with us to town to meet with the council."
Kedarn then takes out his rope and hands it to Andrath and says "Andrath, here you can use this it is 50' of silk rope."
Kedarn will then empy one of his waterskins and hand it to Wynn saying "here you go you can use one of mine as well."
Kedarn then walks to the dwarves and asks the dwarf that had been talking to the group "Will you agree not to waylay any more travellers in the area?" After a few moments Kedarn will say "Or would one of you come with us to town so that you cna make an arrangement with the folk of the area so that peace is maintained?" (diplomacy 17)
***** OOC: Welcome Krshna to our great game! *****
Elerinn Monday December 29th, 2003 7:50:31 PM
Elerinn tells the others about the figure he sees at the base of the tower and, uncertain what to do, waves back at the creature. More and more, visions of ropes tied together in the wrong way enter his mind, and he decides to stop looking outside the tower.
Cadmar Tuesday December 30th, 2003 3:50:13 AM
Cadmar, who wants out of the tower, badly, is pacing nervously near the window. He would offer his help with tying together the ropes, but he is just not very good at it.
Then Elerinn points the figure out for him.
"Who is that I wonder? The tower has a bad reputation. Who would approach it alone? Maybe yet another mindose?"
[Welcome Krshna!]
Elerinn OOC Tuesday December 30th, 2003 6:18:39 AM
OOC: Forgot to welcome you in my last post, Krshna. So...
Welcome to the Cinnamon Valley game!
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday December 30th, 2003 8:43:34 AM
Wynn corks his waterskin and begins filling Kedarn's skin with the liquid from the fountain to the right of the window.
"I could cast featherfall on anybody who falls during the climb. It matters not whether I am first or last to leave the tower." the bard offers.
Lorth Tuesday December 30th, 2003 9:31:18 AM
"I will wait for Kedarn. Cadmar you look like a cage animal, why don't you go first and get yourself some fresh air. In fact, if you like, we can lower you down the tied ropes, so you don't even have to climb.", Lorth offers.
alkalai Tuesday December 30th, 2003 1:30:36 PM
a small figure in the distance below the tower jumpped up and down yelling words that can barely be made out. words such as 'hello there' and 'cassandra' make it to the tower.
Cassandra Tuesday December 30th, 2003 10:33:32 PM
Cassandra hears the faint call of her name from below and looks out at the figure. "Is that you Alkali?" she yells out as loud as she possibly can.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday December 30th, 2003 10:47:02 PM
Kedarn gives voice to his concerns, only to realize that the dwarves have gone. The portal they came in through is no longer there.
Kedarn and Andrath rig up two ropes and a harness for the descent from the window as the party prepares to leave the tower of Boydos.
One by one the party members are lowered to the ground in the order that Kedarn suggested. Only the cleric of Gargul remains at the window.
Cassandra embraces the halfling, Alkali when she reaches terra firma.
Garrard Tuesday December 30th, 2003 11:04:41 PM
In all seriousness, Garrard makes his way down the rope, and nods greeting to the newcomer. Then, as the group readies to bring Kedarn down, he steps off to the side, prays quietly, and kisses a patch of grass gently.
Then, he stands up, relief written on his features. With that, he beings to scan the nearby trees for his errant hawk-friend.
Andrath Tuesday December 30th, 2003 11:29:24 PM
Andrath says to Wynn, "You say you can cast featherfall? Why don't you cast it on Kedarn, and he can just float down to us, bringing the ropes with him? Otherwise, can I suggest that I am the last one to climb down, since I am probably the best climber? Then you can be ready to cast your spell if I lose my grip on the wall."
Cadmar Wednesday December 31st, 2003 2:27:57 AM
Cadmar is visibly relieved when he feels fresh air on his face and soft snow under his boots. He kneels down, cleans his hands with some snow, and whispers: "Domi be praised, we all made it to the end of this crazy day."
"Welcome, friend. My name is Cadmar. I come from the Gondaval clan. I take it Dulcet was concerned about our extended absence?"
Lorth Wednesday December 31st, 2003 7:10:46 AM
Lorth climbs down the rope and greets Alkalai. "Hello friend, I trust your travels where safe?"
(Greetings Krshna!)
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday December 31st, 2003 10:08:43 AM
Wynn reaches the ground, greets Alkali, and prepares to cast featherfall on the last to leave the tower.
Alkali Wednesday December 31st, 2003 12:21:53 PM
OOC: Hello everyone! I apologize for the previous message's bad grammar and spelling.
The small halfing looks around at the vast array of characters around him and the large tower. His eyes gaze a little longer at the tower looking for anything out of the ordinary. Releasing himself from the embrace of Cassandra, he introduces himself. "Hello. My name is Alkali Greenbottle. I have been sent here to ascertain the current status of your mission for Dulcet. I guess I also came to say 'hi' to Cassandra and perhaps see more of the world. If you wouldn't mind I would like to here the story of what has happened so far. " A small hawk swoops down from above the tower and perches on Alkali's shoulder.
Kedarn d20=17 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 6:52:11 PM
Once everyone else is down Kedarn will say a prayer to Gargul then remove his armor and gear. Kedarn will then place his equipment into his haversack.Kedarn will then pullup the rope and tie his gear, weapons and haversack to the end of the rope and lower it down to the others. When it is dow Kedarn will then untie the rope and let it drop to the others. Kedarn calls out "Wynn get ready with your spell here I come!! Cast it on me when I fall!" Kedarn will then cast Guidence on himself (giving a +1 to skill checks.)
Kedarn will then start to climb down to the others using what ever hand holds he can find. (climb roll 17+1 (guidence spell)=18) On his way down Kedarn is saying every prayer to Gargul that he has ever learned.
Cadmar Thursday January 1st, 2004 2:45:52 AM
While watching the descent of Kedarn Cadmar relates a brief summary of the party's adventures.
"We went into Culverwood and located salmonberry. Some plants have survived our later adventures, am I right?" he looks at others, not sure who is carrying the plants. "I hope I am right."
"On our way back we ran into an owlbear. Thram was killed by it. We buried him in Culverwood."
"Further along the way Cassandra was kidnapped by some strange sect calling themselves Mindoses of Boydos. They took her right to this tower. We followed and have just confronted them. I'm afraid some blood had to be shed, but the rest of us managed to get out of this one alive."
"Where do you hail from, Alkali? I don't recall ever seeing you in Jarlswolf."
Elerinn Thursday January 1st, 2004 7:06:12 AM
Elerinnn waits for Alkali's response to Cadmar and introduces himself after the halfling is done speaking. "Greetings! My name is Elerinn and I'm really glad that there is finally someone around who I can talk to without hurting my neck!"
The small gnome smiles. Then, he nods at the bird on Alkali's shoulder and asks: "What's his name?". Elerinn pets the black raven on his own shoulder and says: "This is my brave friend Qamaro."
Terra Firma
DM Bob & Carla Thursday January 1st, 2004 10:22:46 AM
All eyes are on Kedarn who makes exceptionally good progress down the wall of the Tower. Still, some 35 feet above ground the cleric's feet lose their hold on the smooth stone of the tower. The party members stand agape as their companion plummets towards the ground. Wynn's spell takes effect with precious few feet to spare and the cleric is gently bumped to earth on his backside.
Cassandra checks on the cleric and then returns to Alkali. "My dear friend", she says "Has Dulcet sent you to find us? She must be really concerned. A long time must have passed." The snow is ankle deep outside the tower. Unless this is a very early storm, the party would appear to have been in the tower for several weeks. Time, it would appear, or at least the perception of time, operates quite differently in the tower of Boydos.
The party members make their individual introductions to Alkali as the last light of day begins to fade below the horizon.
(OOC: Please post the order of watches.)
Kedarn d20+3=10 d20+3=22 d20+5=15 Thursday January 1st, 2004 11:48:12 AM
Once Kedarn is down he goes over to Wynn and says "thanks for the save Wynn." Kedarn then looks over at Alkali saying "Greetings, I am Kedarn Cleric of Gargul. What sent you out this way?" Kedarn will gather his gear again and put on his studded leather armor again. Afterwards Kedarn looks to the others and says "Sorry if I came across as bossy, I just wanted to get us a little more organized. I would suggest that the watches be as follows. Wynn and Cadmar take first watch, Garrard and Andrath take second watch and Lorth and I will take the last watch. I know this is only 3 watches but I feel that Elerinn, Cassandra and Alkali be free from watches so that they have full spell capability come morning and we will have someone on each watch that can see somewhat in the darkness during each watch. Cadmar and Garrard could you look for some supplimental food while the rest of us get the camp setup?" With that Kedarn then looks around the area to see where they are in relation to when they first entered the tower. (search 10, survival 22, spot 15)
Garrard d20+7=22 Thursday January 1st, 2004 4:03:40 PM
Garrard introduces himself to the newcomer, saying, "Well met. I am Garrard Talhein, a druid of the Windbourne Hills. I carry the Salmonberry we gathered."
After that, he returns to his usual quiet, watchful behavior, gathering food with Cadmar and standing watch with Andrath.
(Survival check: 22. According to PHB, unless there a modifier, should provide food for up to an additional 12 people.)
Alkali Thursday January 1st, 2004 11:30:54 PM
Alkali listens to Cadmar's tale as he watches the cleric climb and then fall off the tower. Turning to Cassandra, he tells her, "Dulcet was worried. This operation took much longer than she expected." To Cadmar, he replies, "Nowhere of any importance. Nowhere anyone knows of..." As the sky darkens and party begins to think about setting camp, Alkali observes, "Hearing this tale about Boydor, Boydes, or whatever that thing is having his minions here, I think we should at least move away from the tower."
Andrath Friday January 2nd, 2004 1:14:22 AM
Andrath moves away from the tower base, and approaches the new arrival. He says, "Good to meet you. My name is Andrath Silverhand. So, exactly how long have we been away, anyways? We have been trapped in that crazy tower, trying to find Cassandra and a way out for we don't know how long. Hopefully, we can get the plants and her back to town soon."
The watches are fine with me.
Cadmar d20+1=16 Friday January 2nd, 2004 2:31:05 AM
"With me too."
Cadmar assists Garrard with his search for food [aid another: Wilderness Lore 16]. "Even if we don't find anything I have a plenty of food to share. If anyone has run out just ask." [Cadmar has 18 trail rations].
The ranger will second Alkali's idea to move away from the tower. Once the camp is set up he gets a campfire going and prepares whatever edible was found.
"So, anything interesting happened in Jarlswolf during our absence? Some group of adventurers was to hold a training session. Did you, by any chance, attend it?"
Lorth Friday January 2nd, 2004 12:27:51 PM
"Greetings friend", Lorth says to Alkali. "it will be good to get back to Jarlswolf, I say we get moving as soon as possible."
Wynn Brightsong Friday January 2nd, 2004 5:24:53 PM
Wynn nods in acknowledgement to Kedarn, and agrees with those in the party that moving away from the tower itself seems a wise thing to do.
He will make tea for any who wish as well as sharing his tobacco.
DM Bob & Carla Saturday January 3rd, 2004 10:32:33 AM
The party moves away from the tower in the general direction of Jarlwolf and sets up camp for the night. The food collected by Garrard and Cadmar is welcomed by the tired and hungry group. They all share tea with Wynn and a few share in the tobacco.
It is a cold night, and the watch must keep the fire burning as well as keeping watch for potential threats.
The crackling fire, and the light it provides draws some of nature's creatures, and the watch can make out their glowing eyes from the shadows.
[OOC Now that holidays are over, let's get into a regular cycle of posting. DM posts will be each weekday evening.]
Kedarn Saturday January 3rd, 2004 6:08:36 PM
Kedarn will pass out some of the groups trail rations to make sure everyone gets enough food to eat.
Kedarn will then look to see if he can find the mule Jenny that the party had before entering the Tower.
Cadmar Sunday January 4th, 2004 5:03:44 AM
Cadmar, his head already occupied by the thoughts of Jarlswolf, offers Cassandra his winter blanket if she doesn't have one of her own, wraps himself in his warm cloak, and asks:
"So, what's the plan once we get back? We should probably first go to see Dulcet and deliver the plants to her. Also, she will be glad to see that Cassandra is all right. We should tell her about mindoses; she might know more about them."
"Then we should probably go and see Fergoes about the scrolls he promised us. He might be persuaded to identify our new finds for us for a lowered price. We did him a big favor after all."
"And I definitely think now is the time to discuss how exactly we are going to share what we earn. Coins, gems, mundane items that are only suitable to be sold are easy to divide - we just exchange them at the Catacombs for vouchers and split them evenly among the party."
"Magic items are another thing altogether. Somebody already said that they should go to whoever claims them first and can make most use out of them. I agree that this simple system might prove beneficial, but just to prevent sore feelings I suggest we keep track of the worth of magic items that every one of us has claimed already. Later on people who took the least would get to make their picks first."
"Then again, there are items that are beneficial to the whole party, like the wands of healing and some scrolls that should be considered common property."
"I definitely think we should have this sorted out before we set off on our next adventure, and sorted out in a way all of us are comfortable with. Well, what do you think? And I would like to hear from you too, Lorth. We all know about your disdain of material wealth, but I would value your opinion if you wanted to share it."
Garrard Sunday January 4th, 2004 7:53:04 AM
Garrard quietly listens to Cadmars points, nodding when he insists on the necessity of such an agreement, but doesn't venture an opinion for some reason.
Once the glowing eyes come into view, Garrard states, "Stay near the fire, and if whatever this is attacks, please remain in a defensive stance until I can complete a calm animals prayer." With this, he casts a faerie fire spell at the glowing eyes.
Elerinn Sunday January 4th, 2004 11:32:24 AM
Elerinn agrees with Cadmar, and adds: "I think that's a good idea, my friend. Did anyone receive any magical items yet?" Elerinn shows his right hand, with the ring of protection shining on his ring-finger and continues: "Along with the arcane scrolls and some potions, this ring is my only magical possesion."
Andrath Sunday January 4th, 2004 2:06:12 PM
Sitting around the campfire, Andrath answers Cadmar's questions. "Right now, I carry and use the Eyes of the Eagle, purchased by the party. I am also in possession of the magical longsword that we discovered in the tower. Does anyone have a problem with me holding onto the sword? Although I am a little better wielding a bow than a sword, I always seem to be in melee."
"I personally don't care about keeping track of the monetary value of each and every magical item. If I take possession of a sword with a minor enchantment, and someone else takes a set of armour with a greater enchantment, are we going to keep a set of books for things like this? How do we know exactly how much each item is worth? The items should go to the best fit, regardless of value, and I disagree that we should keep track of the monetary value of each and every magical item that we find, who took possession of it, and exactly how much in monetary worth each of us is carrying. I will never have any sore feelings if the magic items are distributed as per our general wishes, regardless of their values.
"All that being said, while we are taking a break here tonight, lets pull out those magical items that we found in the tower, and have a closer look at them. When we discovered them, we were in a rush trying to find Cassandra. Now, we seem to have a few minutes, so lets have them out and have a closer look."
Wynn Brightsong Sunday January 4th, 2004 8:58:37 PM
Wynn stays near the campfire and listens to the discussion of party treasure and its distribution. He agrees with much of what he has heard despite the contradictory nature of some ideas. "There must be more than one right answer" he thinks to himself.
Lorth Monday January 5th, 2004 8:11:23 AM
Lorth listens to everyone and ventures his opinion. "Like Andrath, I don't care about the monetary values of items we find. Although I have no problem with the party keeping track of it if that is their wish. If the party wishes me to have a special item and it is of use in our cause, I will of course use it to the best of my ability. Although I ask that you give such treasures to yourselves before me. As for money, gems coins and the sort, I would ask for my fair share, whatever the party deems that to be. Although I won't keep it all for myself there are plenty of worthy causes to hand it out to. That said, I'd be fine never to receive anything except the knowledge that I have helped make things right and good in the world." Lorth then goes back to cleaning his equipment.
Alkali Monday January 5th, 2004 3:30:20 PM
Upon mention of magical items found in the tower, Alkali's eyes brighten. "I don't care how you keep track of your stuff but you have magical items you are going to sell? What items? Mind if I see them?"
DM Bob & Carla Monday January 5th, 2004 5:36:01 PM
The eyes glowing in the darkness around the fire are nothing more than rabbits, squirrels, and other creatures that inhabit the valley. Attracted by the light and warmth of the fire, they scuttle and dart away as Garrard casts his spell, but after a short while creep back to the fringe of the fire light.
The party discusses what to do once they return to Jarlswolf, how to divide party treasure, and whether they should lay out the treasure from the tower and inspect it now, or wait until the safety of town.
[OOC XP for the module is on the way via separate e-mail. Lets try to get revised PC sheets ready for next Monday to start the next module. In the interim, continue return to Jarlswolf.)
Greg d6=6 Monday January 5th, 2004 6:31:43 PM
Hit point roll for Andrath going to 3rd level.
Ian d8+1=2 d8+1=3 d8+1=9 Monday January 5th, 2004 7:04:15 PM
Hp for garrard to level three. (If I can reroll, the second roll?) (Using a hero point to reroll.)
[DM Bob - 9 it is]
Garrard Tuesday January 6th, 2004 1:19:03 AM
Garrard sits up that evening, not quiet able to sleep. Every time the wind blows, a smile drifts across his face, but for the most part when hes not on watch, hes laying flat on his back gazing up at the starlight sky. Those who are up at dawn see him give extended morning prayers, and when he does, the wind seems to rise a bit in response until he finishes.
He is completely silent on the way back to Jarlswolf, haggard and yet smiling at each breeze or gust that happens around the group.
Once back in the town, he sleeps off most of the first day, and once thatdone, Garrard finds himself at a table with his companions in the inn, listening to the talk of dividing loot.
"I agree that we should pay Feorges a visit, but I also think we should choose our next outing with more purpose than monetary gain in mind. Shall we all agree to pay for identification costs out of pocket before dividing the items?"
Ian 2d8(8+5)+2=15 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 2:26:18 AM
more hp rolls for companion animal. 15 additional hp.
Cadmar Tuesday January 6th, 2004 3:21:03 AM
Cadmar pulls the items he was carrying to inspect when asked. "Ah, Alkali, we haven't exactly decided what to do with them yet - whether sell or share, and if share then how."
[So, are we in Jarlswolf yet?]
When Garrard mentions identification costs Cadmar says: "See, this is precisely what I am talking about. I think we should have all such small details sorted out. How do we pay for identification costs, who pays for break enchantment if somebody gets, say, turned into stone, and such."
Cadmar listens to Lorth and is puzzled. "Well, I think I understand your decision, but please think for a moment what might happen if in a year or so we go against a creature that can't be hurt by normal weapons, and you are still carrying a regular blade. Will your share of money and gems be enough to keep you prepared for the dangers we will be facing? Will you be able to protect those of us who are of weaker physical condition?"
"All right: Lorth doesn't care about material wealth, Garrard seems to think that some kind of agreement is neccessary, Elerinn seems to agree with me, at least to a point."
"Andrath, first of all I think this discussion should be concluded before any of us lays claim to any of the new items. Then you can keep the sword on whatever rules we agree upon."
"Please note that the actual division of loot you suggest is what would be going on under my idea, too. People who can make most use of new items would get them. Nobody would deny you your sword just because you already have lenses and somebody has taken a few hundred gold less in spoils."
"But, if somebody has 25000 worth of magic, while someone else has only 7000, this is another matter entirely. What I propose is a safeguard that will make sure the wealth is divided justly, in case, for example, if for some time we find nothing but arms and armor. Nothing guarantees that we ever find an item suitable for a sorcerer or a bard. Also, my idea would solve problems if we found an item that would be beneficial to everyone, like bracers of armor."
"You mention unusual items - this is a great point. My proposal is far from conclusive and needs some work. I hoped we could do that work together as a group."
"You mention general wishes of the party - what exactly is that? In case of bracers of armor the general wish of everyone (with possible exception of Lorth) would be that he is the one to get it."
"Now, while we are having this discussion, maybe we should take care of our other business?"
[Hey our DMs: The party has some unfinished business in Jarlswolf: 1. Deliver salmonberry to Dulcet and claim a reward, if there is any. 2. Get scrolls Fergoes promised to scribe for us. Cayzle might know more details about both matters.]
Elerinn Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:30:16 AM
Elerinn listens closely to Cadmar and adds: "I think one of us could keep a list of the magical items each of us receives." Elerinn hesitates, but continues: "I trust all of you, my friends, but if anyone doesn't, two of us could make separate lists."
Elerinn looks around, and notices the halfling, Alkali, sitting on the other side of the campfire. Somehow, he already likes him, perhaps because of his lenght. Then, Elerinn realizes that the group will be as large in number as it left Jarlswolf. He still feels somewhat responsible for the monk's dead and looks into the fire with sad eyes.
Kedarn Tuesday January 6th, 2004 7:08:04 AM
Listening to what the others say about the treasure quietly then thinking upon it for a short time. Then Kedarn speaks up saying "I feel that all magical items found should be identified by our groups arcane casters if possible and when that is not possible we should then have the cost come out of the monetary treasure that we have found before it is divided. As for the tracking of what each items value is I would say that has no bearing as each item has a value other than monetary to the group. Take for example the eyes of eagle that Andrath caries and uses, they can help spot trouble before we come across it. If we were to try and keep an equal monetarty value split of the magical items found we may end up hurting our selves by not having the items in the hands of the person that can make the best use out of them." After a few moments for what Kedarn has said to be thought upon Kedarn then says "I agree with Garrard in that we need to choose a general goal for our small group in addition to the possible monetary one. I am sorry for taking the leadership of the group there at the end when we were at the Tower but I felt that we needed some leadership. I would continue in that capacity if you feel fine about it. If I do I will listen to each of you and try to make the best decisions based upon all information and everyones input with what is best for the group. I think that Wynn and Elerinn should go over to Feorges and and get the payment from him, while the rest of us go to see Dulcet and deliver the Salmonberry. Afterwards we all can meet at the messageboard to see what is posted." Kedarn then looks over at Alkali and says "Have you been listening to what we have been talking over? Please give us your opinions as you are part of us."
Lorth d10=6 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 7:58:18 AM
Lorth nods to Kedarn, "I have no problem with your leadership and whatever the party decides for magic items is fine with me. As for not being able to hurt some kind of creature, I've never seen a creature that was unaffected by a weapon, but besides that I think you misunderstand me a bit. While I care not for material wealth, I can see the wisdom of good weapons and armor. I would use such things to the best of my ability if that is what the party wishes. I would not accept them if there is others in the party that wished them for themselves."
(OOC: I am on vacation Jan 7th - 14th, I don't mind who plays Lorth if anyone. Hit point roll for level 3 is 6 hps)
Dominic d8=3 d8=7 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 8:04:43 AM
HP for Kedarn lvl 3 (7) used 1 hero point to reroll.
Alkali Tuesday January 6th, 2004 5:20:48 PM
Alkali listens in trying to hear what he can on magical items. "If you can't tell what they are I can look at 'em. Though I can't tell you how much I'd discover. I do agree that the wealth you guys have should be split equally in a functional sense. Items that can help a person generically like bracers and stuff shold be given to those who lack magic items. After all a magic sword is useful for killing magical beasts but usually for the person who can use the sword."
After the group starts discussing leadership Alkali tunes out and starts talking to Cassandra. "So... how goes? Getting caught like that. Dulcet was starting to get worried. And stuck for two weeks! How strong those dwarves must have been."
Wynn Brightsong d6+1=3 d6+1=7 (roll for HP used a hero point) Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:00:38 PM
Wynn listens to teh discussion around the campfire, nodding at Kedarn's summary and suggested priorities once they get back to Jarlswolf. "I would be happy to visit Feorge once we get back home Kedarn."
The bard pulls 2 waterskins from his sack, "Don't forget these! I collected them in the tower along with two vials of the oil that sprayed out over the corpses"
DM Bob & Carla [Sweet Dreams] Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:14:14 PM
The party continues to discuss the treasure and the distribution of wealth into the wee hours of the morning.
Garrard, whose watch it is, slumbers through pleasant dreams of a day's rest in Jarlswolf and the company of friends at the local inn.
Kedarn tests the group's openness to his leadership and sums up the discussion with a few wise words about the nature and value of magical items. The cleric also suggests some priorities for once they have returned to Jarlswolf, which is still the better part of a day's travel from their campsite.
Cadmar, Alkali, and Wynn spread some of the treasure out and examine it around the fire. Much of it remains in Kedarn's sack.
A pensive Elerinn ruminates upon the loss of a friend.
Finally, Kedarn wanders over to Garrard, nudges him into conciousness and lets the druid know that he will take over the watch as the rosy fingers of dawn reach tentative fingers into the early morning sky.
Kedarn Tuesday January 6th, 2004 8:35:08 PM
Kedarn will perform his daily prayers at first light then make sure everyone is feeling ok and asks "Does anyone need any healing?" Afterwards Kedarn will look for Jenny the mule in the time before everyone is ready to head home.
On the way back to Jarlswolf Kedarn will check with each party member to see how they are doing.
Garrard Tuesday January 6th, 2004 9:22:48 PM
Garrard walks along quietly, scanning the sky and nearby trees for his hawk companion.
Andrath Tuesday January 6th, 2004 10:21:14 PM
Before they leave for the trip back to Jarlswolf, Andrath asks once again to see the items that they collected in the tower. He figures that Kedarn has kept the items in his backpack, and asks the elf to please spread them out on the ground, so that party can have a look at them. He says, "Listen, before we make a whole bunch of decisions about exactly who gets what, and how much each of us should have, why don't we have a look at the items again, and see if we can figure out what they can do. Maybe Wynn can recognize one of them, or Alkali can figure something out. So Kedarn, what do you say? Can you get them out of your backpack?"
Cadmar Wednesday January 7th, 2004 3:17:43 AM
"All right Kedarn, if you want to lead I agree to give it a try and see how it works. Actually, I think your leadership skills can be put to a test right now. We need to reach an agreement over treasure distribution, an agreement we all would be comfortable with. Let's see if we are able to do this. Maybe you could coordinate the discussion?"
Cadmar listens to Elerinn and answers: "Actually, two lists sound like a good idea. I don't believe anyone here would cheat, but one person can always forget about something or make a mistake. I can run one list if we agree on that."
"I agree that identification costs should come off the party's treasure. Fergoes might give us a discount, it might be good to check with him first."
"Andrath and Kedarn, let me repeat once again: even if we track the value of goods distributed, most of the time we will be giving magic items to people who can make most use out of them. Even if for the next few adventures some of you carry two or three magic items and I have none, its acceptable with me. We would start making adjustments only if over long time some of us got significantly less magic then others, or if we found a powerful item everyone wants."
When Kedarn mentions that Alkali is a permament part of the group Cadmar's eyes open wide. "Did I miss anything? Would you like to become part of our adventuring group, Alkali?"
Cadmar [add on] Wednesday January 7th, 2004 3:55:23 AM
Cadmar takes out his book and starts to scribble something on its cover. Finally he presents his work for everyone to read. "Please look at this. This is what I have in mind. I know some of you don't like it, so please tell me how this method of wealth distribution might go wrong and we can discuss changes. Or propose another idea altogether."
PARTY CHARTER
1. Items found while adventuring can be used by whoever seems to benefit most from them until the adventure is over and they can be properly identified. After the adventure all new items are returned to the common pool to be properly divided.
2. New magic items are identified. The cost of identification comes out of the loot before it is divided. The identification will be done by party members/other people/Catacombs staff, whichever option turns out to be cheapest.
3. Coins remaining after identification, gems, work of art, mundane items fit only to be sold for cash, and similar objects are to be cashed in/exchanged for Catacombs vouchers and split evenly among the party.
4. The party might decide that some of the new magic items (especially potions, wands, scrolls, and such) should be considered party property. These items are noted as such in the equipment list. A person capable of using the items will be selected to carry them. A decision to use them will belong to the whole group.
5. The newly identified magic items are split among the party. Whoever wants the item can claim it for his own. The party will keep track of the value of the items each party member obtained in this way.
6. If an unusual item is found whose price is hard to set, the party either agrees on what the price should be, or, if that is not possible, the item is brought to the Catacombs to be appraised.
7. If the party finds an item nobody wants to claim, the item is to be exchanged for Catacombs vouchers that are split evenly among all party members, or, if such decision is made by party, the item is instead included into party property for later use.
8. If several people want to lay a claim to a single item, the item will go to the person who so far has taken the least value in magic items. If there is a tie the new owner will be decided by a throw of a coin [thrown by the DM].
Kedarn (add on) Wednesday January 7th, 2004 6:20:25 AM
Kedarn will pull out the items that he is carrying of the treasure found and let Wynn, Elerinn and Alkali look at them.
Kedarn reading the party charter proposed by Cadmar. Kedarn comments "Personally I don't feel the need to track the value of what each of us gets. If it is going to be tracking of the value then everything should be exchanged in the catacombs and split equally, but I feel deeply that this should not be done."
Elerinn Wednesday January 7th, 2004 9:59:50 AM
After a busy night of discussion and mourning for lost ones, Elerinn doesn't feel really well rested. The first rays of the sun gives him strenght, however, both physical and mental. He looks at Kedarn performing his morning prayers and is fascinated by his friend's devotion to Gargul. The gnome is too easily distracted himself to be this kind of loyal to his patron, Wardd, but promises himself he will try to be more devout.
When Kedarn's asks if he needs any healing, he thanks him and gets on his feet and says: "Oh, by the way, I forgot to tell you I will go visit Feorges when we arrive in Jarlswolf, as you suggested. I believe Wynn will not have a problem with going along with me".
After that, he cheerfully wishes everyone a good morning, including the raven, Qamaro. He suggests to continue to Jarlswolf as soon as possible, ready for the next adventure. Elerinn agrees with Cadmar's ideas, although he doesn't think these rules have to be followed too strict, for the right item at the right place will benefit everyone.
OOC: Bob and/or Carla, did you already send me the experience information for finishing this module? I have seen some of the others rolling for their 3th level and since there have been quite some problems with my mail-delivery in the past, so I was wondering if there are any problems again. Thank you.
DM Bob - Yes, info sent by e-mail - if you didn't get it send me your e-mail addy to make sure I have it right.
Alkali Wednesday January 7th, 2004 5:23:23 PM
Alkali yawns after a nice sleep. Cadmar's question puts Alkali in a bit of a spot. "Um... Do I get food and fun? If so, I'll be joining you if Dulcet doesn't have me run some stupid errand. After all, you can never have enough magic." Upon hearing Cadmar's charter, Alkali shurgs. "Anything is fine with me. If people feel accounting is problem, I'll do the accounting. They don't need to worry about it. And I'll do it as long I get something. You know, like this mask here. Reminds me of Flower..."
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday January 7th, 2004 6:04:26 PM
Wynn examines the treasure amassed by the group and runs through a list of the items he remembers as belonging to the party and any magical auras he detected on them.
Eyes of the Eagle carried by Andrath *** Wand of Cure Light Wounds, CL1, 20 charges *** (carried by Kedarn) Wand of Cure Light Wounds, CL1, 18 charges *** (carried by Garrard) Seal of Barkskin (all party members within 50ft get a +2 natural armor bonus for 2 rounds) ***
Tripod for hanging pots over fire (3' tall) Iron pot Sack (2)
YET UNIDENTIFIED:
Grey bow with white string *** (faint enchantment)carried by Kedarn Longsword with a rose hilt and black blade *** (faint enchantment)carried by Andrath Cloak with a black and white large-diamond pattern all through it *** (faint enchantment) Rose light shield made of wood and a bizarre white face on it *** (faint enchantment) 6 vials *** (2 conjuration, 2 transmutation, abjuration, enchantment) Grey parchment with black writing and a rose ribbon *** Black parchment with white writing and a grey ribbon *** White parchment with rose writing and a black ribbon *** Rose parchment with grey writing and a white ribbon ***
3 small bells of 3 different sizes (Smallest to largest White, Grey, Black) A Rose Goblet with black lining on the bottom and rim 12 gems (4 each of Rose, White, Grey and Black) A grey wooden mask with rose-lined eyeholes and small reliefs of animals carved around it's outer edge *** (multimagic, stronger than rest) 100 black coins. 100 rose coins. 100 white coins Gleaming white chain shirt of excellent quality Rose-colored turbin with grey lining *** (multimagic) 2 small feathers, one black and one grey *** (conjuration, transmutation) 2 vials of oil from the tower 2 waterskins of liquid from the tower
"Did I miss anything?" he asks the group.
Garrard Wednesday January 7th, 2004 6:11:12 PM
Garrard frowns when Alkali asks for a share of the magical treasure, almost says something, and then resumes his quiet travel.
A short while later, he waits for a break in the roadside conversation, and interjects, "For some time I have been considering working towards a specific vocation. After seeing Hmary, and that tower, and the other events we have participated in, I am now resolute. It will be some time, but I would ask each of you to consider whether you would travel with a server of Flower. That is the road I walk now, and I won't be offended if you decide not."
"Regardless of properties revealed, I would like to request the mask. It is a fitting decoration for my chosen profession, and path. I am willing to put three hundred pieces of gold into the party division to compensate for its stronger aura."
Lorth Wednesday January 7th, 2004 11:15:10 PM
The paladin listens as each individual gives voice to his opinion on what should be done next, and how the treasure should be distributed. Since the party appears to be working towards resolving the issues at hand, he remains quiet, keeping his own counsel.
(OOC: DM Carla posting until David T.'s return.)
Andrath Wednesday January 7th, 2004 11:52:16 PM
"So, Garrard, do you know what magical powers the mask has? What if it allows a magician to cast extra spells? Do you still want it? For an item like a sword or a bow, especially with a faint enchantment, it is fairly obvious what the magical power is: some sort of combat enhancement. But for many of these magic items, such as the mask, the turban and the cloak, we really have no idea what magical effects they can bring. Why don't you put the mask on, and see what it does? Maybe you will still want it, or maybe not?"
His curiousity winning out, Andrath picks up the turban, and places it on his head. He looks around at the rest of the group, and asks, "So, what do you think? Do I look any different? I wonder if I feel any different?"
DM Bob & Carla [On the Road Again...] Thursday January 8th, 2004 12:00:38 AM
The party continues it's discussions from the previous night, and comes closer to agreement before setting out for Jarlswolf. There is still some disagreement about the need to track the monetary value of magic items granted to party members, or at least the detail to which this should be carried out. Perhaps this will be settled later.
Kedarn starts to re-pack the treasure items in his haversack and readies to leave for Jarlswolf, without their mule, Jenny, who has either wandered off or has been converted to Boydos.
The morning is sunny but cool. The snow lies ankle deep along the trail and many of the tree branches carry a coating of snow.
Garrard catches a glint through the trees and with a shrill scream his missing hawk returns to him. He makes his commitment to follow 'Flower' and his convictions known to the rest of the group. Several of the party members show an interest in the carved wooden mask, while Andrath models the colorful turban.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday January 8th, 2004 12:03:40 AM
Wynn looks at the foolhardy rogue... "Andrath, you look marvelous, simply marvelous!"
Garrard Thursday January 8th, 2004 3:24:00 AM
Garrard smiles as his hawk comes to a landing on his arm, and becomes engrossed in checking its feathers for damage, and petting the bird. He follows along with the party listening as he cares for his friends, and doesn't say much other than, "I am also willing to cede any other portion of a share if I were to receive the mask."
Elerinn Thursday January 8th, 2004 4:48:02 AM
The small gnome answers Garrard, and says he will not be offended by the patron he chose. Elerinn hesitates for a moment, but continues: "I think this might be the right time for me to tell you who I consider my patron, myself. Some of you might be offended by my choice, for I follow on of the Gods of Testing. My patron is Wardd, God of Luck. I don't ask of you to agree with me, only to respect the choice I made." Elerinn is silent for a while, eager to hear how his companions think of his 'confession'.
Elerinn, who has quite a hard time walking through the thick layer of snow, smiles when Andrath puts on the turban. He says, in a playfull way: "Are you planning on wearing that thing when we arrive in Jarlswolf?"
When the group is discussing the distribution of the items, especially the mask, he gets serious again and says: "Whoa, wait a minute here! We don't even know what this mask is supposed to do, do we? Why don't we identify the items, or at least a part of it, before we distribute them?"
OOC: I checked, but the mail is not in my inbox. The proper mail should be: jvholsteij@antoniuscollege.nl
Kedarn Thursday January 8th, 2004 5:57:23 AM
Kedarn listens as he continues to travel to Jarlswolf. Kedarn says "I agree we should have them identify the items first."
Cadmar Thursday January 8th, 2004 7:04:55 AM
Cadmar looks over Wynn's list. "Oops, I forgot to add the liquid from the tower to my list. Let me correct that now." Scribble scribble.
"Also, we are bringing to Jarlswolf 4 cloaks and 4 handaxes Andrath picked up. And Kedarn has burned 3 charges out of his wand, so it has now 17 charges left. Other than that you have the same list as mine."
"Who is carrying the seal of Barkskin? How about you, Kedarn? Since you are the leader now, you will be most likely the one to decide when it should be used." Unless somebody objects, Cadmar finds the seal and hands it to Kedarn [and, if you agree, I will take a note that your character is carrying it].
When Alkali mentions he wants his share in the treasure Cadmar replies: "With all due respect, friend, you will have an equal share in whatever we find while adventuring together, and nobody will ask you to pay if you get healed by wands we bought with our own money, but you joined us after we acquired present loot. I think it would be proper if we divided it among ourselves. If you need some extra money to buy equipment we can lend it to you." [and OOC, most of our characters have very little wealth for their level. If you start out with standard wealth for a 3rd level PC you probably have more than any of us. Or do you have just a starting equipment that comes at 1st level?]
Cadmar replies to Kedarn: "Selling everyting would be a great loss, you are right. But I never suggested that! With my way, we won't have to get rid of useful items. I think we could at least give it a try, especially since some of the others also think it is a good idea."
"I agree that before anyone claims anything we should have the stuff identified- watch out, Andrath!-"
"Nothing happened, good. In my dream a turbin changed me into a bird..."
"I don't mind travelling with a follower of Flower. I have heard only good things about them. But what purpose exactly do you have in mind for our group, Garrard? What kind of missions would you seek?"
"I don't know much about Wardd, Elerinn, but I judge people by their deeds. You have proven to be a good friend. I like your company."
Cadmar scatches his head. "The only item I remember that got distributed so far is the ring of Elerinn. Tell you what? Maybe we can let him have it and start with a clean slate? We could also give the lenses to Andrath for his own. Then it would look like this:
"I don't know what to do with Alkali. Maybe we should share the items and then take the average to be put in as his initial share?"
[I didn't receive my XP share by mail. My address is kulczyck@im.uj.edu.pl. Please mail me so that I know what address I should send 3rd level Cadmar to.]
Cadmar [add on] Thursday January 8th, 2004 11:52:35 AM
Cadmar checks if the flowers and mushrooms survived the trip out of the tower. "I hope at least the three red ones are still fresh..."
Garrard Thursday January 8th, 2004 1:32:23 PM
"I wouldn't think of demanding a purpose for the group. Where we went, I would see the helpless given aid, and the weak defended. I personally think that compassion has its place in the actions of adventurers, which is why I suggested some manner of diplomacy with the mindoses, rather than wiping them out."
"Especially as adventurers grow more powerful, they have a opportunity to make a mark on the Wold around them. I would just ask that a group I was part of was willing to bring more than the sword, and consider other solutions when they are warranted."
Elerinn Thursday January 8th, 2004 4:18:05 PM
Elerinn smiles to Cadmar and thanks him, obviously a bit shy because of the compliment his friend gave him. For a moment, he doesn't really know how to act, but then he turns towards the rest of the group and begins speaking.
"I wouldn't mind if we count the ring as one of the material possesions I own, but please, do whatever you think is reasonable." The red-haired gnome turns to Alkali and says: "I'm sorry, but I agree with Cadmar. We don't know if you are going to travel along with us for sure, yet."
Alkali Thursday January 8th, 2004 4:31:03 PM
When Alkali hears Garrard's announcement, he relenquishes the mask. "Server... that's where I saw the mask before. Those creepy guys I saw every day at the temple. When dad took me they were staring you down with their masks... ugh. Made me pray they weren't gonna kill me. I heard this mask is part of their powers. Also, you need to be kind of anonymus to be server right? Gonna "serve" us a good whack on our heads so we forget you first?"
Upon Cadmar's question of "What to do with poor ol' Alkali, "I only want whatever leftovers you guys have. I don't wanna be a freeloader and stuff. But after all, who wouldn't want a new toy? Especially when you can shoot fireballs and webs and teleport and..."
"Oh, I have one magical item, its my wand here." Alkali pulls it out and shows them. "Nothing cool like shooting webs. Only heals. Boring stuff."
Lorth Thursday January 8th, 2004 7:46:47 PM
The big man walks along behind the group, deep in thought. Lorth ponders the unnatural events that occurred in the tower and shakes his head at the memory. "Let us press on for Jarlswolf" he volunteers.
Andrath Thursday January 8th, 2004 11:59:35 PM
"Garrard, when we first met up with the mindoses in the room with the dangling thread headgear, I tried to get the leader to release Cassandra, before I resorted to violence. I realize that I threatened the dwarf, but he had kidnapped her, after all. He and the other dwarves decided to fight, instead of releasing their prisoner to our care. So, we often do use diplomacy, or at least talk, before we jump to violence."
Andrath continues to wear the turban as he makes his way to the front of the party, to scout their way home. He thinks it makes him look very dashing, and adds a bit of colour to his usually drab ensemble. He doesn't let it distract him from watching ahead for trouble on the way back to Jarlswolf.
Some time during the evening while they are resting, Andrath asks the new arrival, "Alkali, is it? You mentioned the 'servers' at some 'temple'. What exactly were you referring to?"
DM Bob & Carla [Out of the Closet] Friday January 9th, 2004 12:29:54 AM
Members of the party discuss their gods, their affiliations, and their missions as they trudge through the new fallen snow. The air is bracing, cool and crisp. Elerinn suggests getting the treasure identified before divvying it up and his idea is met by consensus on the most part.
Cadmar makes a list and checks it twice, before acknowledging Kedarn as the leader and giving him the party's hard won seal. The ranger checks the mushrooms and flowers gathered from the tower, and notes that they've seen better days.
Cassandra pipes up, "I think we should get the Salmonberry to Dulcet while they are still of some use to her. She may be able to identify some of the magical items as well."
Gerrard states his interest in the mask, while Alkali relinquishes his claim. Andrath acts the dandy in his smart new headgear, much to the amusement of Wynn and Elerinn, while the taciturn Lorth encourages everyone to press on towards town.
The sharp-eyed scout recognizes familiar terrain and informs the party that they will arrive in Jarlsworth in a few hours. It appears that Elerinn and Wynn will pay Feorges a visit, while the rest of the party seek out Dulcet.
Garrard Friday January 9th, 2004 1:38:36 AM
Garrard states, "I wasn't trying to make any statements about past events, Andrath. I was simply answering Cadmar's question about my preference for the future."
Garrard looks shocked at Alkali's comment. "No, no... not all servers are anonymous all the time. Some have families and such, and don the mask for their work. It had been my thought to wear the mask when interacting with everyone outside this group."
"I'm concerned about this temple you mention as well. Could you tell us more about it?"
Cadmar Friday January 9th, 2004 5:16:26 AM
"For once I agree with Andrath that we couldn't have played it any other way with the dwarves. There was simply too much risk that they might threaten to hurt Cassandra. Of course the thing that rushed our hands was my stupid blunder with the flowers..."
"OK Elerinn, I'll write you down for your ring. Elerinn: 2000." Scribble scribble.
As the party approaches Jarlswolf Cadmar gets visibly excited. "I think my share of coin might be enough to finally buy that Regeneration spell for my dad! Do you think the Catacombs have a contractor in the Valley who can cast such powerful magic? Maybe Dulcet can do that? Do you know anything about that, Cassandra?"
Elerinn d4+4=6 d4+4=5 d4+4=7 Friday January 9th, 2004 9:05:43 AM
Elerinn is glad that Jarlswolf is near, and the snow doesn't bother him much, anymore. He walks towards Wynn and says: "Shall we, when we arrive in Jarlswolf, go to Feorges to see if he can give us the scrolls he promised? We can meet the others after they brought the berries to Dulcet. Or we can go with them before we go to Feorges, I don't really mind where we go first."
OOC: HP roll for level 3, with constitution bonus. I used a hero point to reroll and threw a 1, so the third roll, 7, is the final number.
Wynn Brightsong Friday January 9th, 2004 11:39:06 AM
When Cadmar checks the flowers and darkshrooms, Wynn recalls the crystal key that was formed when the two were combined..."Who has the crystal flower from the Tower?" He asks. "It too might be magic!"
Wynn suggests to Elerinn that the two of them go immediately to Feorge's and pick up the scrolls. They can then check the message board on the square before meeting up with the rest at Dulcet's.
"Did we ask Feorge for specific scrolls, or are we to pick up whatever the wizard offers?" Wynn voices his question to the group.
Alkali Friday January 9th, 2004 5:43:21 PM
When Garrard asks about the temple, Alkali responds, "Um... its somewhere. You'll have to ask Dulcet. I haven't been since I was little." After looking at himself, Alkali mentions, "Smaller than I am now that is."
He also adds to the group, "I think I've mentioned this before, but I and Cassandra need to report to Dulcet before anything else."
Lorth Friday January 9th, 2004 6:35:36 PM
The paladin follows the group. "Lets make haste for the coven then," he volunteers, "Elerinn and Wynn can join us when they are finished with Feorges."
DM Bob & Carla Saturday January 10th, 2004 8:27:16 PM
The party enters Jarlswolf from the south and Wynn and Elerinn break-off from the rest of the group and head for Feorge's to acquire the scrolls they had been promised. They find the wizard at home, and he invites the pair of adventurer's in for tea.
The rest of the party continues on to Dulcet's house on the northern side of town. A few townsfolk cast quizical looks at Andrath's colourful headgear.
Cassandra claims little knowledge of what resources the Catacombs has at it's disposal, but wishes Cadmar luck in obtaining the needed spell.
Upon arriving at Dulcet's home, they are escorted into a parlour to await the leader of the Coven of Weal.
Garrard Sunday January 11th, 2004 12:47:32 AM
On the way over, Garrard chuckles and says, "If Feorges doesn't insist on the scroll contents, why not scrolls of identify?"
Once they reach the Coven home, Garrard goes in quietly, and takes a seat. He then waits patiently.
Cadmar Sunday January 11th, 2004 8:28:58 AM
Cadmar sits and waits, wondering if his family is worrying about him. He has disappeared for a few weeks before, but he usually warned them in advance that he will be gone. Mother and aunt Ingrid were probably worrying. And his little sis had nobody to watch over her, so she probably got herself again ears deep into trouble.
The ranger walks up to the window and looks out, eager to go home and see what's new with his relatives.
Elerinn Sunday January 11th, 2004 3:22:28 PM
Elerinn sits inside Feorge's comfortable house, drinking tea with his friend Wynn, when he remembers the kind of scrolls Garrard suggested. He asks the wizard if he is still allright after the attack on the tower, and then gives a short summary of their travel, not excluding the tragic demise of the monk Thram. After that, he asks the wizard what kind of scrolls he would be willing to give them.
Kedarn Sunday January 11th, 2004 4:51:30 PM
Kedarn accepts the seal from Cadmar and then tells him "I will use it when we are in need of its function."
Kedarn then tells Wynn and Elerinn "I would not know what to ask for in scrolls for your use as I use divine magic not arcane like the two of you. Scrolls of Identify would be a good choice as Garrard suggests."
Kedarn will take a seat while waiting for Dulcet to arrive and mentally review everything that has happened since the last time the group spoke with her.
*** OOC: Bob, updated character sheet will be sent in the next 36 hrs.
Marcin, could you send me a copy of the write up for the seal that Cadmar gave Kedarn. my email is kngtfall@rpg-r-us.com ***
Wynn Brightsong Monday January 12th, 2004 6:12:42 PM
Wynn greets Feorges and gratefully accepts the tea. He listens attentively as Elerinn recounts the tale of their adventure, piping in only occassionaly to embellish upon the heroic deeds recounted by the gnome. "My friend is far too modest", he explains to the wizard. "Our foes were much more dangerous than he lets on, and his own actions were larger in life than his words or his size might lead you to believe."
When talks turn to scrolls, Wynn remarks that the group is particularly in need of scrolls of Identify but wonders what else the Wizard may have.
Alkali Monday January 12th, 2004 6:29:49 PM
Alkali sits down and waits patiently in the waiting room playing with his spirit hawk.
Alkali HP Roll d4=4 Monday January 12th, 2004 7:22:27 PM
OOC: Wooh! My dimunitive 4 hp!
Lorth Monday January 12th, 2004 10:52:02 PM
The paladin straightens his garments, and tries to smooth down his short brown hair. His attempts at making himself presentable meet with limited success. He wonders if there is a place nearby where a bath could be got for a few coins.
Andrath Monday January 12th, 2004 11:41:16 PM
Andrath watches the townsfolk as they eye his turbanic headgear. He says, "Well, now we know what this turban thing is, it is clearly a very rare, especially powerful Turban of Staring! Clearly, we need to hang onto such an incredibly powerful item. We can't let it fall into the wrong hands!"
When they arrive at Dulcet's home, Andrath moves to one of the corners of the room, standing as still as he is able. However, his left foot taps a quiet pitter-pat as he waits with the rest to finally give the plants to the witch.
DM Bob & Carla Monday January 12th, 2004 11:58:54 PM
Feorges removes the empty cups and cleans away the crumbs from the small table. "A tale well told my friends" he compliments the two adventurers. "And now to business."
The wizard excuses himself for a moment and disappears into a backroom, returning moments later with an armful of scrolls. They do not appear to be organized in any particular manner, and a few drop to the floor along the way. The old man puts the scrolls on the table and retrieves the fallen parchments.
"Now then", he says, "let's see what we have here. He fumbles through the scrolls, skimming the contents of each and placing them into two separate piles. "Yes, Yes,...No, Yes, ...hmm...Yes" After several minutes of this he finally looks up and addresses his two guests. "I think these should best suit, your purpose. Not too advanced, and all very useful. These three here with the red seals are all Identify. These two with the blue seals are Endure Elements and this one with the yellow seal is Mage Armour ". He picks through the remaining scrolls and selects three more. "Now pay attention...This scroll with the red border is Cat's Grace, this one with the orange border is Web, and this last one with a black border is Scorching Ray."
The Wizard packs away the remaining scrolls and escorts Wynn and Elerinn to the door. "I don't want to keep you from your friends. I'm sure you have lots to do. I know I do."
Dulcet interrupts the quiet thoughts of the party members when she enters. "Alkali, I see you've found them!" She turns to Cassandra, "We were quite worried about you my dear. We expected you home much earlier. Did you bring the salmon berry plants?"
Cassandra shows the plants to Dulcet who clucks disapprovingly at their sad state. "Ooh, these don't look very good . Let me see what can be done." The witch exits the room for a moment, returning shortly with two members of the coven bearing trays of refreshments.
"Please tell me about your quest" she asks as she begins filling the glasses from a blue pitcher.
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday January 13th, 2004 12:08:50 AM
"Well my friend, that was profitable" Wynn declares with a smile. "I think these will go over well with our companions." Wynn helps Elerinn pack the scrolls before heading out towards the town square. "Let's check the adventurer's board before heading to Dulcet's house. Maybe we could stop for a quick pint at the Inn?" he asks hopefully.
Garrard Tuesday January 13th, 2004 2:35:38 AM
Garrard sits quietly, allowing the more charismatic and well spoken individuals in the group tell the tale.
Elerinn Tuesday January 13th, 2004 4:59:09 AM
Elerinn wishes Feorges a nice day and looks at the large number of scrolls he and Wynn just received. He quickly glances at every single scroll, trying to remember every scroll's usage and says to Wynn: "How are we going to divide these scrolls? I suggest you take the mage armor scroll, I feel that I can cast this spell without a scroll. Let's each take an endure elements scroll. We can use the identify scrolls right away when we return to the others. How about the other three scrolls?"
When Wynn suggests to check the adventurer's board before going to Dulcet, Elerinn agrees and is eager to discover if there are any new messages.
Wynn's other suggestion, going to the Inn before rejoining with the others, is not a really good idea, Elerinn thinks. "I'm very eager to identify these magical items." He pauses, smiles playfully and continues: "Especially that ridiculous turban Andrath is wearing! Let's rejoin with our friends, and pay a visit to the Inn afterwards. Because I agree with you these things are important too!"
Excited like a child, Elerinn starts walking towards Dulcet's house.
Cadmar Tuesday January 13th, 2004 6:44:09 AM
The ranger looks around to see if anyone wants to tell the story. Then he coughs and starts:
"Our journey to Culverwood was uneventful and quite pleasant, actually. Once in the wood we managed to find our directions by following a stream. There seemed to be quite a lot going on - we have seen some lights in the distance and we run into two satyrs. The rascals tried to bully some gold off us. Soon after we encountered a greenmage who seemed to hold some authority over them. Unlike them he was quite friendly and helpful."
"The salmonberry was groving in a small grotto high on a cliff, accessible only by a difficult climb. There were some spiders in there, too, but we managed to fend them off. We collected salmonberry and headed back to Jarlswolf. All that didn't take much more than three days."
"During our last night camp in Culverwood we encountered an owlbear, and Thram-"
"Died."
Cadmar stops to let someone else continue the tale.
Alkali Tuesday January 13th, 2004 6:24:02 PM
Alkali listens to Cadmar's story looking for details he might have missed. When Cadmar stops, Alkali remains quiet for a moment of silence for Thram.
Kedarn Tuesday January 13th, 2004 6:54:08 PM
Kedarn listens to Cadmar as he is telling what has happened. When Cadmar stops Kedarn picks up and continues.
"After the encounter with the Owlbear and the death of Thram, we buried Thram in the Cullverwoods and continued on our way here. When we were not far from the Tower of Boydos, we were set upon by a group of dwarves. While they kept us occupied one of them carried off Cassandra. We followed them to the tower and entered the tower to try and recover Cassandra. While we were in the tower we encountered some very large bats. Then later we came upon some skeletal undead that were fighting and they attacked us. After deafeating the undead we found a room where there was several bodies on pedastals that had a water flowing over them. We continued to look for Cassandra. Eventually we came upon where Cassandra was being talked to by the dwarves. When they spotted us they attacked. We eventually defeated the dwarves and then left the tower and continued to Jarlswolf" Kedarn tells Dulcet.
Kedarn will look to the others and see if they have anything to add to what was said.
Lorth Tuesday January 13th, 2004 8:11:11 PM
The dark haired man with brown eyes will accept refreshments from Dulcet. He is careful not to drop crumbs on the floor of the parlour. When Kedarn is finished, Lorth will add, "don't forget about the field of luminous flowers and the bridge Cadmar made with them in order that we might cross the chasm."
Andrath Tuesday January 13th, 2004 11:52:52 PM
Andrath adds to the description of their recent adventures. "When we finished fighting the skeletons, we found a cache of treasure, including a number of what we believe to be magical items, including this stunning Turban of Staring. Apparently, it attracts peoples' vision to it, causing them to stare at the wearer. But except for the turban, we have no idea what the other items can do. Would you be able to help us identify these magical powers?
"Also, we are a little worried about those dwarves in the tower. They called themselves mindoses, whatever that means. They kidnapped Cassandra to try to get her to convert to the worship of the power in the tower, this Boydos. At least I think that is what they wanted. We are worried that they will try that stunt again with someone else."
DM Bob & Carla [What does it do?] Tuesday January 13th, 2004 11:56:03 PM
Wynn and Elerinn make their way to the message board, talking as they go. One or two townspeople wave to them as they pass and share the pleasantries of the day. The board has its usual assortment of notices:
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"Caravan Guards wanted. Must be willing to travel. Provide own arms. Must be willing to handle stock and work loads. Pay based on experience. See Artad Bistoc at the Bistoc Warehouse."
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"Come, Adventurers Old and New! The Famous GREEN DRAGONS will be hosting a week of training and teaching in Jarlwolf. Tips and Tactics for seasoned vats and newbies alike! Jarlwolf Town Commons, Starting five days into the new month."
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"Seasoned Adventurers Wanted! Ogre-Hunters needed to recover precious stolen trade goods! Reward! See Halbert Jemmells of the Ketal Clan!"
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"The Cinnamon Valley Needs You! Join the Council Guard! See the entire valley! Get trained with weapons and armor! Earn real gold! See Sir Wallston at the Armory."
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"Treasure! Treasure! Treasure! Help me find my treasure and I'll give you half! Ask for Bobart at the Inn of the Broken Cauldron!"
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
"Weary after battle? Seek solace and healing at Alemi's Temple. Donations appreciated. Ask for Kind Tobald."
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
At the very bottom of the board is a single parchment, written in elven, with a large seal of the Brightsong Trading Company. It bears Wynn's name at the top.
Meanwhile...
At Dulcet's home the party is much more relaxed. Dulcet listens to the groups recollections of the past several weeks with great interest and consternation. "My oh my" she says, "Were you hurt?" she looks at Cassandra. "I must express my deepest thanks to the rest of you for going to such lengths to bring Cassandra back"
Dulcet listens to the whole story before helping the party fill in a few of the blanks. "The tower has always been a strange place" she says. "Always lots of groups coming and going, but few of them ever made much sense. The believers say that a power of some kind rests beneath the tower and somehow calls to it's followers. They used to come in droves, but the Jarl did not favor them and there was a great battle. The believers of Boydos won, but it was a pyrrhic victory. Almost all were killed defending the tower. The monks, if that is what they are, used to entice witches to join them, saying that a witch could enhance her powers. Few did, but those that were lured in often went insane or feebleminded over time. I did not know that believers were once again being called to the tower. Some say that if enough followers congregate at the tower, that whatever rests below it will awaken and take them to a different plane of existence."
The witch rises to check on the salmon berry plants and in doing so catches sight of Andrath. For the first time she notices his new turban. "That is a remarkable turban you have on master elf!" she exclaims. "What does it do? It seems to have an aura about it."
Dulcet points to a large table and invites the party to lay out the items they wish to have identified. "I'll see what I can do" she volunteers.
Kedarn Wednesday January 14th, 2004 4:34:23 AM
Kedarn starts to take the items that he has been carrying and lays them out for Dulcet to see. "thank you for looking at them."
Cadmar Wednesday January 14th, 2004 6:26:34 AM
"You can do that? This would be great!" For a moment Cadmar forgets about the family waiting for him. The ranger opens his backpack and and puts his share of the load on the table. "Could you help us with coins, gems, and other things we found, too? I have no idea how much they are worth."
Elerinn Wednesday January 14th, 2004 9:38:29 AM
Elerinn is not really interested in the notices currently on the adventurer's board (except, of course, the possibility to actually meet The Green Dragons!). But when he reads the first line of the last notice, written in Elvish, he is surprised and looks at his friend. He continues reading with haste, while saying: "Well, Wynn, it seems you got some message from your...your family!"
While Elerinn continues reading, he can't help thinking about his father. Somehow, he feels guilty that the life he is currently living, helps him to forget his father's death somewhat.
OOC: Meanwhile...Nice cliffhanger there! ;)
Alkali Wednesday January 14th, 2004 6:27:39 PM
When Dulcet offers her help to look at the items, Alkali offers his assistance as well.
Garrard Wednesday January 14th, 2004 8:59:02 PM
Garrard listens respectfully through the interaction with the Coven of Weal, and at one point, asks if he can speak to them later about the specifics of their profession.
Considering, he asks the group, "Would you all be willing to have a discussion about choosing a different path than the options listed on the board? I think we have a unique opportunity to share our fates... an opportunity we should not less pass by."
Andrath d20+9=20 Wednesday January 14th, 2004 11:41:21 PM
Andrath takes off the turban, and places it on the table. Then he draws the black and rose-coloured longsword from his scabard, and lays it beside the turban. "Lady Dulcet, here are the items that I carry that we found in the tower. What can you tell us about them?"
Andrath says to Cadmar, "Why don't you let me have a look at the non-magical items, and see if I can figure out how much they would be worth. Why I worked for the city guard, a lot of items, many of them valuable, crossed my hands, and I spent a fair amount of time learning the value of such items." Andrath looks carefully at the mundane items spread out on the table. [OOC: Appraise roll of 20.]
Cadmar Thursday January 15th, 2004 3:25:02 AM
"Go ahead."
"What path do you have in mind, Garrard?"
[Are Wynn and Elerinn back already? Do we know what is posted on the board? If they are back, it might be worth to add the scrolls to the pool, just to see what CL they are.]
Wynn Brightsong Thursday January 15th, 2004 7:58:18 AM
Wynn pulls the message off the adventurer's board and briefly reads it. For a brief moment a frown crosses his face and he tucks the note into a pocket on his vest. "Elerinn my dear friend, I think we should make for Dulcet's"
DM Bob & Carla [Treasure Trove] Thursday January 15th, 2004 8:35:14 AM
Elerinn, and a subdued Wynn return to Dulcet's and place the scrolls on the table with the rest of the items. Wynn retrieves the two waterskins from his own pack as well as the two small vials.
Dulcet, Cassandra and Alkali gather around Dulcet's cauldron. The witch explains to the group that she has been experimenting with a new way to identify magic items that avoids the costly destruction of expensive pearls. She asks each of the three witches to cast their identify spells into the cauldron. "We are working with some unique plants from the Culverwood that the greenmage has provided."
An acrid smell emanates from the pot as the magic begins to work. Dulcet drinks a cup of the strange and bitter brew and encourages her two coven members to do the same. Cassandra readily downs her portion and offeres the ladle to Alkali. [Drinking the potion allows a witch with the identify spell the ability to identify 1 item per witch level i.e. the spell lasts for 1 round per level].
Dulcet approaches the table and begins to handle individual items one at a time..."There is a small chance that items will be misidentified with this method" she cautions, "but we have had no such bad luck to date."
Dulcet, Cassandra, and Alkali (if he drinks the potion)are able to identify the following items:
A grey bow with white string = ShortBow +1 A Longsword with a rose hilt and black blade = Longsword +1 A Cloak with a black and white large-diamond pattern all through it = Cloak of Resistance +1. A rose light shield made of wood and a bizarre white face on it = Light Wooden Shield +1 6 vials are: Potion of Jump, Potion of Sanctuary, Potion of Cure Light Wounds, Potion of Cure Light Wounds, Elixir of Sneaking, Elixir of Love.(all at minimum caster levels) A rose-colored turbin with grey lining (just an ordinary turbin with a magical aura on it. It has no powers whatsoever.) A grey mask with rose-lined eyeholes and carved animals outlining the edges = speak with animals / charm animals 2 small feathers, one black and one grey = 2 Quaal's Feather Tokens, The grey is Tree and the black is Swanboat. 2 vials of oil = oil of timeliness 1 waterskin = 10 potions of expiditious retreat 1 waterskin = 10 potions of Bull's Strength
Andrath looks over the more mundane items and is able to establish their approximate value.
A set of 3 small bells of 3 different sizes (Smallest to largest White, Grey, Black) = Equivalent to silver Bells, total value = 40 gp A Rose Goblet with black lining on the bottom and rim = 70 gp.
A gleaming white chain shirt of excellent quality = Masterwork Chain Shirt (250 gp)
12 gems (4 each of Rose, White, Grey and Black)Total value - 300 gp total(25 gp ea)
100 black coins = 100 gp 100 rose coins = 100 sp 100 white coins = 100 cp
When she has finished, Dulcet sits beside the table and explains to the group that the nature of the scrolls can be identified by anyone with the ability to read magic or decipher script.
Lorth Thursday January 15th, 2004 10:04:53 AM
(OOC: Hola Amigos! I'm back from vacation in Mexico, damm its cold in New york =P Thanks for running Lorth while I was gone.)
Lorth continues to sit and watch everyone go about their business. He is happy to be relaxing and not trudging through the forest any longer.
Elerinn Thursday January 15th, 2004 12:25:16 PM
Elerinn looks at the enormous pile of items and hopes there will be no trouble dividing the items. After Dulcet has explained every item's use, the gnome casts a read magic and tries to identify the scrolls.
After he is finished, he looks at Wynn and says: "We must not forget to divide the scrolls Feorges gave us earlier. We can make a little list of the scrolls we took from the tower and the scrolls we received from the wizard."
Then, Elerinn looks at the items and says: "I'd like to have the cloak, but I guess there are others who want it. We can sell most of the non-magical items at the Catacombs,but I'm not really interested in the other magical items, besides the potions and scrolls."
OOC: List of scrolls Feorges gave: -3 Identify -2 Endure Elements -1 Mage Armor -1 Cat's Grace -1 Web -1 Scorching Ray
Alkali Thursday January 15th, 2004 7:58:57 PM
Upon taking a sip from the ladel, Alkali feels a rush of power take over him. Quickly he analyzes items the other two do not. After the effects wear off Alkali says softly, "Wow... that's great stuff. I wonder if I can bottle any of it..."
Garrard Thursday January 15th, 2004 10:23:56 PM
Garrard watches the casting with rapt interest, curious and attentive. He seems to be mentally taking notes on the process, and asks subdued questions about the theory behind the ritual after it is completed.
He then makes a point to say that short of coin, he is uninterested in anything other then the mask.
Andrath Thursday January 15th, 2004 11:02:52 PM
"Well, Garrard, it appears your instincts were right, and that mask does seem to fit you best. You definitely should take it. Elerinn, I don't have a problem with you taking the cloak.
"As for me, I would still like to take the sword, and if no-one else can use it, then I could also use the chain shirt. Or we could sell the shirt, but I don't think that the money split 7-8 ways is the best use of the item. And I would also like one of the cure potions, since I had to use my last one when I was trapped on the far ledge with the mindoses, and that crazy dwarf monk kept stunning me.
"We should probably split the bull's strength and expeditious retreat potions equally among us all, or at least give the stregth potions to the people that go into melee combat. Obviously, the scrolls should go to those that can read them.
"Any items that go unclaimed, and the mundane items, can be taken to the Catacombs and exchanged for vouchers."
Wynn Brightsong Friday January 16th, 2004 12:10:56 AM
Wynn nods his head in agreement with the proposed division of the spoils. "I require no more than a new waterskin and a few coins, for I regret that I must leave this fine company" The bard looks around the room for a brief moment before continuing..."A personal message addressed to me was posted on the message board sometime between the day we left for the Culverwood and today. My father has taken ill and I have been called to return to my family. I will leave this evening."
DM Bob & Carla Friday January 16th, 2004 12:27:46 AM
As Dulcet, Cassandra and Alkali complete identifying the magic items, Elerinn determines the nature of the remaining scrolls:
1 - Grey parchment with black writing and a rose ribbon = Cleric Scroll w/ Detect Chaos (1), Doom (1), Bull's Strength(2). 2 - Black parchment with white writing and a grey ribbon = Mage Scroll w/ Magic Missile (1), Identify(1), Bear's Endurance(2) 3 - White parchment with rose writing and a black ribbon = Mage scroll w/ Shocking Grasp (1), Rope Trick (2) 4 - Rose parchment with grey writing and a white ribbon = Druid Scroll w/ Detect Snares & Pits(1), Goodberry(1) [OOC all scrolls at minimum caster level]
Garrard once again declares his interest in owning the mask to which Andrath lends his support. The elf proposes a plan for distributing the treasure and Wynn announces his imminent departure.
Lorth Friday January 16th, 2004 7:46:06 AM
Lorth looks over to Wynn, "Well friend, surely you must need company on the road? Or is this a private family matter?" He waits for Wynn's reply.
Alkali Friday January 16th, 2004 11:34:24 AM
Alkali looks over and offers his assistance as well. "I do know some curing and healing. Maybe I could help your father?"
Cadmar Friday January 16th, 2004 1:12:45 PM
"I'm sorry, Wynn. I hope your father gets better. Is there anything we can do? Would you like us to accompany you on the way?"
***
Turning back to adventuring business Cadmar starts taking notes, describing every potion and every scroll in his book for later use. "All right. Here it is how it looks so far. Items that have already people interested in them are:" "Longsword, chain shirt, one potion of Cure Light Wounds - Andrath." "Cloak - Elerinn." "Mask - Garrard." "Fortunately we seem to have no arguments over items this time. At least so far."
"Things that we should probably take to the Catacombs to sell are:" "Three bells, goblet, 12 gems, 300 coins, 4 handaxes, 4 cloaks, and the turbin." "I also suggest we sell the elixir of love and both oils of timelessness. These don't sound very useful to an adventurer. Unless, of course, some of you feel we should hang on to them as party items or somebody wants to claim them for himself?"
"I can do the selling at the Catacombs. And while I am there I might as well buy 20 vials to split the contents of waterskins into potions and have the mask appraised [how exactly should I describe the mask to them? Is it usable once per day? At will?]"
"As most of the remaining items are single use trinkets that help combat foes or heal up after a fight we should probably make most of them party property and distribute them among whoever can use them when they are needed. I propose that the following should be considered party's common goods:" "Ten potions of Expeditious Retreat and ten potion of Bull Strength. I agree that we should split the potions of Retreat so that everyone has at least one; Bull Strength should go to the fighters." "Two arcane scrolls of Endure Elements, an arcane scroll of Mage Armor, an arcane scroll of Cat's Grace, three arcane scrolls of Identify, an arcane scroll of Web, an arcane scroll of Scorching Ray." "A divine scroll with Detect Chaos, Doom, and two Bull Strengths." "An arcane scroll with Magic Missile, Identify, and two Bear's Endurances." "An arcane scroll with Shocking Grasp and two Rope Tricks." "A divine scroll with Detect Snares&Pits and Goodberry." "Both Quaal's Feather Tokens."
"That leaves us with several items that benefit really only one person and that should have a new owner:" "The shortbow, the shield, and the potions of Jump, Sanctuary, Cure Light Wounds, and Sneaking."
"So, anyone interested?"
"Regardless of who is going to carry the scrolls it would probably be a good idea if all of us who can potentially use them deciphered them. Just in case."
"So, what do you think?" Cadmar licks the tip of his pencil and puts it behind his ear.
Elerinn Friday January 16th, 2004 5:16:28 PM
Elerinn looks at Wynn and says: "I'm really sorry to hear that, my friend. I agree with the others, we can accompany you, if you like? I'd be a pity to lose your company. But then again, maybe this is something we can't help you with..."
Not really feeling like discussing the distributions of the items after hearing this sad news, Elerinn remains quiet for a moment.
Kedarn Friday January 16th, 2004 7:34:01 PM
"Wynn, is there anything that we can help you with?" looking at Wynn while asking.
"Cadmar I will hold the divine scrolls for the group, the potions of bull strength should also be split amongst us all as we all have been getting into melee as well. I would like to see the chainmail go to Lorth or myself as I don't think that it would interfear with any of our skills." Kedarn says.
"Andrath would the shortbow be useable by you? I personaly prefer the longbow that I have." Kedarn adds.
Garrard Friday January 16th, 2004 9:32:29 PM
Garrard states, "I believe we should sell the druidic scroll. I can cast both spells, and we are at no shortage for either effect supplied by the scrolls. I also think the potion of sanctuary should go to one of the front line warriors. They bear enough risk that an item that can get them out of danger should be theirs."
"The only two reasons I can think to keep the oil of timelessness is the preservation of oddities we might come across, and the preservation of any... who might fall."
"In addition, I would like to suggest that Elerin be given the stewardship of all of the arcane scrolls as party treasure. His spell use has been effective in a number of situations so far. Why not arm him to be more so? Is there anyone else who can employ the scrolls?"
Then, turning to Alkali, he asks, "We did not get a chance to speak at much length on the road. Perhaps you could tell us something about yourself?"
Cadmar Saturday January 17th, 2004 7:33:27 AM "All right, here is what was proposed and what we seem to agree upon:"
TO BE CONSIDERED INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY: Longsword, one potion of Cure Light Wounds - ANDRATH Cloak - ELERINN Mask - GARRARD
PARTY PROPERTY AND WHO IS ABOUT TO CARRY IT: 10x Potion of Expeditious Retreat - to be divided equally among the whole party 10x Potion of Bull Strength - to be divided equally among the whole party Both Feather Tokens - ? 2x Oil of Timelessness - ? A divine scroll with Detect Chaos, Doom, and two Bull Strengths - KEDARN 11 arcane scrolls - ELERINN
ITEMS TO BE EXCHANGED FOR VOUCHERS: 3 bells goblet 12 gems 300 coins 4 handaxes 4 cloaks turbin elixir of love divine scroll with Detect Snares&Pits and Goodberry
ITEMS TO BE BOUGHT: 20 potion vials
"And here is what we still need to discuss:"
Chain shirt - ANDRATH, KEDARN, LORTH(?) Shortbow - ? Shield - ? Potion of Jump - ? Potion of Sanctuary - ?(SOME WARRIOR) Potion of Cure Light Wounds - ? Elixir of Sneaking - ?
*** "I hope we can get on with adventuring sometime soon; just to make the decisions easier I suggest we do the following:" "Lorth, Kedarn, and Andrath get to carry two potions of Bull Str, the rest of us one;" "Elerinn, Alkali, and Garrard get to carry two potions of Exp. Retreat, the rest of us one;" "Garrard carries both feather tokens and both oils of timelessness;" "We make the potions of Jump and Sneaking party property and give them to Andrath to use when he goes on a particularly dangerous scouting run;" "Lorth gets to carry the potion of Sanctuary;" "And, unless there is someone who is low on personal healing, I will claim the remaining potion of CLW for my own as personal item. If anyone has less than two healing potions I will be very glad to relinquish the claim."
"Gentlemen, if you agree with what I suggested, then the only thing that remains to be done is to decide who gets the chain shirt, the shortbow, and the shield."
"It might be beneficial to split some of the arcane scrolls between Elerinn and Alkali. Can you use any of them, Alkali? This way, in a pinch, we would have two spellcasters ready to use powerful magic instead of one. What do you think?"
"I have one other proposal; Let's buy a wand of Lesser Restoration with about 20 charges as a party item. We have already run into poisonous beasts before and might meet them again in the future."
Wynn Saturday January 17th, 2004 11:21:01 AM
The bard makes his way around the room saying his personal farewells to each and every member of the party. "No, I'm afraid there is little that any of you can do. My father is a very old man and the difference between elven and human lifetimes is now playing out in my family. If I ever need assistance I will leave a message on the adventurer's board. Stay well friends, and if I can return I surely will."
The bard collects his belongings and leaves Dulcet's for home. His heart is heavy as he thinks about his mother's grief and the prospects of becoming the manager of a trading house.
LOG ON