Site Seeing (DM MikeK) Tuesday April 6th, 2004 11:15:18 AM
Angus "knows" the Seal is one of Cure Light Wounds.
Angus, Lang, Tionel, and Florin joke at the bottom of the tree. Lang is somewhat vigilant, but still sees nothing.
Syr wishes his two friends luck, and lowers the rope down for Florin. [Florin, add 5 to your climb checks. Roll as normal, stopping if any roll is 5 or more under the DC 15. Florin won't necessarily fall, so don't say he does]
Xenia, and then, Wynn push through the membrane-like material and emerge in a open air structure in the middle of a park.
The structure is composed of four trees, about 15' in diameter. They are spaced in a square configuration about 40' apart. At the level of the membrane, each tree has a single flat branch extending toward the other trees. They all meet and seam perfectly, forming a perfectly flat floor defining a 40' x 40' space. The tops of the trees intertwine, forming an intricate, obviously patterned, dome 20' above the "floor". Xenia and Wynn have entered this space from the westernmost tree. An archway exists in the tree directly across from them. It is a natural, perfect arch. Branches extend on the east side of the tree to create a stairway down to the forest floor.
At ground level, the grass is golf course like. A uniform 2" high in a semi circle around the Temple. On the northern edge of the semicircle lies a cliff face overlooking the lake far below. The semicircle extends 120' from the cliff. There is no visible path in the clearing. The wall of the jungle's trees surround the site.
Sunlight streams into the site, accompanied by a soft warm breeze. The feeling is one of peace and contentment.
In the middle of the "floor", mounted on a stone pedestal, is a wooden bowl.
Angus Tuesday April 6th, 2004 1:15:07 PM
Angus thinks over Lang's offer. "Lizard may be a bit much for my sensitive stomach, but the others may be inclined. So do you have skills in cooking also. I might partake if you have liberal amounts of garlic, basil, and tyme."
Angus moves out from under where Florin is climbing, just in case. "Florin, I am not thrilled about the idea of climbing. A fall just might break my body.... I am also not excited about staying here alone at this point either. At least see if the others find any wine to go with the lizard that Lang will be cooking for everyone."
Xenia (HP 22/23) Tuesday April 6th, 2004 1:15:48 PM
The touch at her waist is unexpected, and Xenia blinks in surprise as she dampens the automatic reflex to pull into an embrace.
Then they're outside, under the arching wooden dome. A warm breeze moves softly against her cheek as, in awe, her eyes take in the scene before her. The view of the lake opening out to the north strikes a chord in her heart, and she can almost hear the sounds of the gulls from the window in her old bell tower place on Riverfront Street. The dark rogue is filled with a calm lazy Spring and Summer outdoor sort of peace.
The world moves about in dappled sunlight, and it isn't for a few moments that she discovers that her hands are resting on the new bard's shoulders, and, with a flutter of her lashes, she takes a step backwards.
"Uh, maybe ... maybe we'd better wait here for the others," she says not quite able to look him in the eyes again, and yet not quite able to look away either. "I ... I wonder if this thing is one way," she says, finally, breaking the spell. Turning to their entrance portal, she probes at it to test the discoloration through which she and Wynn had just passed.
Taken a bit aback, Xenia's training crumbles, and she completely neglects to take stock of their surroundings.
Florin Jadenth d20+9=13 d20+9=21 d20+9=18 d20+9=26 d20+9=27 Tuesday April 6th, 2004 1:38:34 PM
Florin looks to Angus and thinks before speaking, he has the rope in his hands as he speaks, "I understand your feelings friend. Maybe after I get up me and Angus and actually pull you up together. You would just have to tie the rope around your waist."
After speaking Florin grasps the rope and begins trying to climb up it. At first almost comical Florin makes no head way with his climb and then he slowly is able to pull himself up. Glad now for his brute strength that he has from all the training. After getting up by Syr though he looks down at his armor laying down with the others and sighs, "I know I'm not thank Domi but I feel naked without my armor."
(OOC:I think I rolled enough checks to get up the rope.)
Lang d20=18 d20=5 Tuesday April 6th, 2004 9:08:23 PM
As the big man starts his climb up the rope/ladder, Lang will quietly edge into the passageway, out of harms way in case Florin falls.
"Angus I have never received any compliments on my cooking. I usually hunt for the meal not cook it when I am in a group. I do have some trail rations and water in my backpack if you would like some".
Rolls: Spot 18 (-5 for being distracted) Listen 5 (-5 for being distracted)
Wynn Tuesday April 6th, 2004 11:07:42 PM
Sensing no immediate danger, Wynn gently releases the pretty half-elf as she steps away from him. The corners of his eyes crinkle, as he smiles, amused by Xenia's sudden discomfiture.
The sweet air and natural beauty of the temple make the bard's heart sing, and he raises his voice just for the joy of it.
In the dark green woods, when the sun was high I saw a lady riding by She had flashing eyes and golden hair She rode upon a dappled mare
In the dark green woods, by the last bird's call There came a soldier straight and tall He found his true love waiting there And he kissed her eyes and her golden hair
"Reminds me of the Culverwood back home," he sighs.
When his attention is caught by the pedestal in the center of the platform, he calls to Xenia, "what do you think that is?"
Tionel Wednesday April 7th, 2004 1:56:54 AM
Tionel hears the faint singing from above and smiles... "I love good bards," he says. "I sing good, but people always say I just lack the voice to be one..." He looks somewhat sad for a few seconds. "You know, that's one thing I'm surprised about. That I'm not at a bar, doing my usual singing, and instead I'm here, doing... well, I don't know. Doing something. What are we doing, really? I mean, what do you call it? Favor-doers? We're certainly not adventurers... Adventurers go to fantastic places like crystal castles and mysterious underground labyrinths." Bemusedly, he sits back against the stone wall, staring at nothing... "And what the heck is going on, anyways? These flowers, the ones that are causing deaths for people in the trash level, they're like... addictive and deadly. I'm guessing. I mean, why else would they be sought after by the trash people? The trash guys want them, the druids want to get rid of them. I guess we're like... drug enforcers. Or something."
After a bit of thinking, he hazards to the others down there, "You know, I think I've got a line on this Jack guy. Maybe that's part of this guy's whole plan. Like, I know he wanted really expensive wine, and then these flowers, and...other stuff. Stuff that causes sensations, it seems. I really don't know.. This Jack guy, he's also high-society, it seems, so maybe he provides that expensive stuff to the high crowd. I don't know. And for some reason, I doubt we'll ever find out." He looks at them, half-expecting some response like 'all i do is stab things'. Strange, but even the mage seems to lack a real intellectual approach to the matters they encounter. Perhaps most 'adventurers' are like this, he muses. More mercenaries, than wizened heroes... In his mind, the great heroes of the past are unraveled. Great barbarians are reduced to bloodthirsty cretins, mighty wizards are fireball throwing maniacs, ... He wonders if those famous groups, like the gold dragons, if the people in them ever spend time thinking about whether cruelty is innate in people, or if they sing songs about the simple love between mother and child...
Syr d20+4=15 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 3:55:32 AM
Breathing heavily he fills Florin in on what has transpired, "Xenia and the new guy just pushed their way through the stretchy wall behind us. I haven't seen or heard anything since they went through."
Calling down to the others, "Angus! Can you tie the rope around Flor's armor, he's lost without it up here. After that someone else tie it around you and we'll pull you up?" (Str 15)
Elevator Service (DM MikeK) Wednesday April 7th, 2004 9:45:19 AM
While Xenia and Wynn gaze at the park and each other, Florin gets to the top.
Syr and Florin lower the rope for his armor, which they haul back up without difficulty. Putting it on in this cramped space is gonna be a trick, though.
Then the two lower the rope for the next passenger. [Between the two of them, Florin and Syr can haul up the rest without difficulty. Do need to say what happens once three folks are on that ledge again.]
Angus and Lang discuss the menu.
Tionel wonders aloud about the meaning of it all.
Angus Wednesday April 7th, 2004 11:58:57 AM
Angus looks to Lang "Thank you but no I am not hungry. It does not take much to sustain this body and my level of exertion. Also if given the choice, I always try to sample the finest things and unprofessionally prepared lizard is not one of them."
Angus calls up to Syr and Florin after the armor is up. "Where are you going to put me now? Any word from Wynn or Xenia? Can you communicate with them?"
Angus reluctantly start to tie the rope around himself and hangs on for dear life. "Be carefull, my strong backed friends...."
Xenia (HP 22/23) d20+9=27 d20+9=16 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 12:12:52 PM
The bard's song is sweet, and ... distracting.
"You're cute, Wynn," she says using the bard's name for the first time. She plants a quick kiss on his cheek, and then, with a visible change in demeanor, turns back to the discoloration in the tree. Pushing with a gloved hand, she tests a possible re-entry into the tree.
She turns to look as the bard asks about the object in the center of the wooden floor. "Must be the bowl," she says with a nonchalance that implies an explanation of perfect clarity.
"The druid guys asked us to come out here and get some bowl," she says as she makes her way around the perimeter of the floor. Looking down over the edge, she estimates the height. "That must be it."
With one last look around for danger, the dark rogue begins searching around the outside of the floor in a clockwise direction, working inward in a circular pattern, hoping to secure the area against traps, magical or otherwise.
Syr Wednesday April 7th, 2004 1:30:01 PM
Hauling the small framed mage up to the top is much easier with the paladin helping. Once Angus climbs over the lip he directs the mage, "Okay, we need some room up here. Angus, why don't you take Flor's armor and go meet Xenia and ...Wynn?" Gesturing back at the wall, "Just slowly push yourself into that wall and you'll be alright."
Florin Jadenth Wednesday April 7th, 2004 3:11:56 PM
Florin is glad ot have his armor up and is slightly winded after the climb. He helps Syr haul Angus up and nods in agreement on Syr's comment, "That is a good idea, they might need your magic assistence in there and you never know, might be something interesting in there for you to see my friend." Florin offers Angus a gentle smile and motions to his armor that lays near him, "Please leave the large steel shield though. I might want it just incase for atleast alittlep protection if combat starts."
Florin waits for the next person to tie the rope and thinks before calling down to Tionel, "I'm curious Tionel, can you change into a bird of any type or maybe one of those lizards we met? Could come in handy to know later and of course if your willing when the time comes." Florin's voice is edged with some awe since Tionel's abilities are interesting to him since each person in the group has abilities much different from his own.
Lang d20=17 d20=13 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 3:35:28 PM
"Hold on tight Angus. You will be alright.", Lang will say to the spell user to give him confidence as he is hauled up.
Lang has a confused and quizzical look on his face as Tionel ponders the situation aloud.
Lang watches as the armor and then Angus get hauled up by Syr and Florin. When the empty rope comes down Lang will stand up, stow his longbow in his quiver and grab the rope.
After hearing Florin call down to Tionel, Lang will wait and see what he does. If he changes into something that does not need the assistance of the rope to climb then Lang will tie it to himself. If he does not change then Lang will silently hand the rope to Tionel and step back as he climbs.
Rolls: Spot 17 (-5 for being distracted) Listen 13 (-5 for being distracted)
Wynn d20+6=26 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 8:47:06 PM
With a trace of a smile on his lips, Wynn follows the slender rogue as she makes her search of the platform. As she looks for traps, he keeps his eyes on their surroundings,(Spot=26, nat. 20!)his hand on the pommel of his longsword.
In little more that a whisper he continues his song,
In the dark green woods, by the evening star I saw a soldier ride to war He never would return again For in some battle, he was slain
In the dark green woods, the people said She heard the news her love was dead But still she waited for him there With flowers in her golden hair.
Tionel Thursday April 8th, 2004 12:09:43 AM
"Change into a bird...? How weird. Ummm...no, I don't think so. I've never tried, but then again, I mean, it doesn't stand to reason that you can change into a bird just like that. Why?"
Tionel goes over to the rope and casually begins to pull himself up with an easy hand over hand technique. It takes him some time, since he's going about it carefully. (I think I'll take 20)
Searching, searching..... (DM MikeK) Thursday April 8th, 2004 8:53:59 AM
Xenia and Wynn note the membrane slowly reforming behind them. On this side, it is the exact same color and texture as the tree bark itself. The two estimate it will be completely reformed in another minute or two, at which point its gonna be really hard to pick it out.
The rogue estimates the platform is some 40' above the grassy plain below. Glancing about once again, she gets into serious search mode, and ever so slowly advances along the edge of the platform toward the northernmost tree. Once at the tree, she pores over it. Pressing her hands to the bark, Xenia discovers there is a section of that same membrane in this tree as well. This one is smaller, perhaps 2' in diameter.
While Xenia goes about her task, Wynn stands watch, and Angus emerges into the sunlight carrying Florin's armor (sans shield).
Lang is hauled up and also exits.
Tionel carefully climbs the rope.
Xenia has discovered the second membrane at about the same time Tionel joins Florin and Syr on the ledge. [Xenia -- taking 20 to search the entire platform is gonna take just over two hours]
Xenia (HP 22/23) d20+10=20 Thursday April 8th, 2004 10:21:51 AM
As the discoloration begins to fade, Xenia removes a piece of chalk from her pouch and draws a circle around it's circumference. With a quick smile, she puts hands on hips and says, "Stay."
She finds the second membrane, and looks over her shoulder at the progress the others are making. Circling the second membrane as well, she puts the recon into a higher gear. She shifts her strategy, and concentrates solely on access to the bowl at the center of the platform.
[[ Search 20 LOL -- Thought a Take 20 might be a problem. ]]
Florin Jadenth Thursday April 8th, 2004 11:34:25 AM
Once Tionel is up Florin smiles sheepishly, "I was just wondering, figured this is as good of a time as any to find out about the various abilities of the group. I had heard of some druids being able to take animal forms and such so was curious my friend." Florin does offer his hand to Tionel to help pull him the last bit up to the platform and shrugs, "Anyway, you have to kind of forgive my ignorance on the matter since I only have read about druids and also met one only briefly who visited the temple of Domi when I was younger."
Florin after speaking to Tionel looks to Syr, "we should probably hurry my friend."
Angus Thursday April 8th, 2004 1:18:02 PM
Angus pops through the membrane with Florin's armor. "Well that was interesting? Hello Xenia and Wynn. How is it on this side?"
Angus sets the heavy armor down and looks around. "The others will be here shortly"
Angus casts detect magic and slowly walks the perimeter and after points out anything of interest to all those in attendance. After which Angus sits down as he is over his physical exhertion limit for the day.
When he sees Lang he mentions offhandedly "No lizards? I was thinking if your cooking skills are not great maybe you should try soup..." Angus goes back to lounging.
Lang d20+5=20 d20+5=11 Thursday April 8th, 2004 7:22:37 PM
Lang steps through the membrane and comes out onto the platform. He is a little overwhelmed at first after being in the dark, constricting cave. As the feeling of peace and contentment comes over Lang he says softly, "This place is beautiful!"
Gathering his wits he takes a look around and sees the wooden bowl on the stone pedastal. He also notices the archway in the tree directly across from him and the stairway within it down to the forest floor.
Rolls: Spot 20 Listen 11
Wynn Friday April 9th, 2004 12:12:55 AM In the dark green woods, by the pale moonlight A ghost goes riding every night She has golden hair, the people say And talks to shadows on her way
Wynn finishes the last verse before answering Angus and Lang, "It is indeed a beautiful place" he remarks, "Xenia thinks that bowl over there may be what we have been sent for."
Tionel d20+8=26 Friday April 9th, 2004 3:03:34 AM
Tionel rambles on, semi-convinced he has an audience (when no one is probably listening to the philosophizing elf), "Still, it's interesting. Turning into a animal...it must be one of those spells one is gifted with as one approaches the higher realms. I've heard of wizards changing into animals, too. No, about all the tricks I've ever figured out to do involve getting in touch with nature...or calling animals to do me a favor. I sometimes wish I could do those things like fling energy bullets like Angus did, or bless a group with luck. But then I wonder, what would I do with those abilities? Gamble better? Sing better? Hardly. Magic, druidic or otherwise, all in all seems pretty useless most of the time."
Tionel looks at the membrane. "Well, time to go check this all out, I suppose. Coming through!" With that, he moves forward, through the membrane with some effort, and emerges into the grove. "My stars, now this is interesting! Obviously a druid thingie. Ummm, lemme think." Tionel automatically reaches for his pack where his journal is, but finds nothing...he'd left it at home. (Know; nature check DC 26) Sighing, he tries to puzzle out what this area is, what the function of the bowl could possibly be, the nature of it all...if there's magical wards or something. He listens to Angus's comments, and paces around the grove after Xenia's first little traipsing about, somehow his feet leaving the grass unruffled in his wake. He decides upon the most obvious, and unlikely, of tests first. "Greetings, four-tree grove. We do not wish to disturb your sanctity, but a druid group wishes us to come here. If you have a protector, we would like to talk to him...?" and waits. Maybe it will work, who knows?
Syr Friday April 9th, 2004 4:21:21 AM
After hauling everyone up the rope a tired elf picks up Florin's shield and hands it to him. He then follows the paladin through the membrane to join the others.
Stepping through he sees tionel talking to nothing and stares at him with a bewildered expression on his face. Softly, "What's going on?"
Hmmmm (DM MikeK) Friday April 9th, 2004 9:36:59 AM
[Apologies, but I'm doing this from a different computer and can't send a map. You'll get one Monday]
Xenia marks the location of the membrane on the northernmost tree and makes a beeline for the bowl and the pedestal it sets upon. Inspecting the two carefully, she finds absolutely nothing out of the ordinary. The pedestal is solid column of granite, three feet high and 2 feet in diameter. The bowl is composed of a single piece of unmarked dark wood, a foot and a half in diameter.
Angus casts detect magic and tries to scan the area. The bowl and pedestal nearly blow the mage off the platform. It is overpowerfully magical, and its impossible to get a good read anywhere else. Whether its the bowl, the pedestal, or both is also impossible to determine.
Tionel emerges into an impossibility. The floor is composed of a single tightly intertwined branch emerging from each tree. The archway in the middle of the west tree is perfect. The grass lawn is perfectly manicured, with no blemish anywhere. The domed roof is also perfect. Even the location of the four trees -- Tionel realizes they each sit exactly on the cardinal points of the compass and exactly equidistant from one another -- is impossible. And its all grown that way, no sign of artificial intervention anywhere. Not a scratch, scrape, blade, rope, nothing.
Somebody grew this place, signalling a level of nature-attuned power that the druid has never even contemplated.
Finally, everyone is on the platform, taking in the sight. Florin is still sans armor.
Xenia (HP 22/23) d20+9=15 d20+9=12 Friday April 9th, 2004 10:44:55 AM
Xenia stands, apparently satisfied, from her inspection of the bowl and it's pedestal. She watches Tionel as he walks about the platform speaking to the air. A soft smile touches both her eyes and mouth. He seems so sweet in many ways.
"There's another rubber door thingie over here, guys," she says, breaking from her reverie and heading to the northern-most tree. "I'm going to see what's on the other side."
With that, she pushes just her shoulder and face through to get a look.
[[ Spot 15 / Listen 12 ]] [[ OoC: Are these things translucent from the inside? ie, do they let in light? ]]
Angus Friday April 9th, 2004 12:09:21 PM
After Angus relates the information about the strong magic from the bowl and/or pedastal he goes back to relaxing.
When Florin comes through the pseudo doorway he comments. "Whats the plan? I am ready for a break. I am very low on spells and could use a nap and a meal. I did not bring much in the way of food, wine that is another story. I may not be large, but I fancy eating every now and then." Angus yawns. "Or do we just go home with the bowl? Do you think that is the lake the floating city in on down there." As Angus motions to the lake in the distance. "The doors seem to have brought us quite a ways...."
Angus looks to Lang. "Maybe our new tracker friend can find something more suitable than lizard to eat for all of us?"
Wynn Friday April 9th, 2004 12:48:26 PM
Wynn shakes off the reverie that has settled over him in this special place. "Who has the ring?" he asks, "might I have it back?"
Florin Jadenth Friday April 9th, 2004 7:37:13 PM
(OOC:Florin was the last to climb the rope and helped Syr pull the others up so I'm guessing he has the ring.)
Florin hands the ring of Wynn's back to him and smiles, "Thanks for reminding me about it."
After giving the ring back to Wynn, Florin goes about strapping back on his armor and pondering the siutation, "I don't know if it would be a good idea to spend more time here then we need. An I have no nice food on me other then travel rations." Florin looks to the bowl with abit of concern, "If no one answers you Tionel then I'll grab the bowl and evenone else should get near the exit just incase. If anyone is going to be hurt while grabbing the thing I will take the lead."
Florin also thinks over what Tionel had said earlier baout shape changing and decides on something else which he speaks up on, "First chance back at the city we all should go to the Giggling Ghost and get to know each other more. I'll even pay for the food."
(Florin will take his time on getting his armor on and not rush it so he doesn't mess up buckling any of the straps or anything.)
Lang d20+5=12 d20+5=12 Friday April 9th, 2004 7:39:54 PM
Not really knowing what to do, Lang will take his bow out of his quiver and stay where he his just looking around at the beauty before him.
Spot 12 Listen 12
OOC - As I was the last to get hauled up I would imagine I have the ring of feather falling. If I do then I will hand it to Wynn when he asks for it.
Tionel Saturday April 10th, 2004 7:02:50 AM
"Hmmm? No, we can't just take the bowl like That, Bralin! It's simply too much a part of this whole scene. It'd be either a trap or a crime! In any case, I'll deal with this, the rest of you stand ready to leave. There's menhir's involved here, after all." He smiles a bit at his own pun, then steps forward boldly towards the bowl. He stops before it and looks around, then says aloud, "Well, we're here to get this obviously druid bowl for druids. Either it is a mundane item, of no real signifigance, in which case no one will mind us bringing it to hte druids. Or, being obviosly a druid item, it is a great item that they have now forgotten about, because what druid could not know about a place like this, unguarded, and not come here to get it? That they sent us is a measure of their uncertainty about it. So, either way, we're doing the right thing." He lets out a breath, glad he made that moral choice in his mind, but can't leave out one possibility... "or it's a huge conspiracy that i can't even begin to fathom" he lets out in one breath. "In any case, Oh mighty grove, we need your bowl, to help the Circle of the Alders in preventing that which belongs in the forest from drifting into the Big Float. If you do not want us to take your bowl, give us a sign." With that, Tionel will wait to the count of ten for a mysterious reply (lightning, an attacking swarm of locusts, etc), then take the bowl off the stand if there is none.
Druid flambe? (DM MikeK) Sunday April 11th, 2004 8:29:08 PM
Xenia sticks her head into a small, shelf like compartment, encompassing maybe a couple cubic feet. The membrane does let in some light, plus everything is right in front of her face, so she is easily able to make out a small ceramic bowl full of gold pieces and a wand composed of what appears to be amber. The bowl is painted in geometric design vaguely reminiscent of the pattern in the living dome overhead.
Florin gives Wynn his ring back and goes about putting on his armor. As he does, he discusses with Angus the merits of a long term stay.
Lang gets out his bow.
Tionel listens in on the discussion, and as Florin is finishing up with his armor, decides to take matters into his own hands. Literally. The druid makes a nice speech, and waits for a count of ten. Getting no reply, he lifts the bowl off of the pedestal.
And...
Nothing happens.
syr Sunday April 11th, 2004 11:56:53 PM
When Florin mentions the Giggling Ghost, Syr perks up slightly thinking that they are almost complete in their mission. As Tionel approaches the center, Syr nudges Lang and asks in a low voice, "What's 'menhir'?" The elf stands ready to bolt although to where he is not quite sure.
Xenia(HP 22/23) Monday April 12th, 2004 12:03:22 AM
Xenia pulls her face from out of the tree's rubber door thingy just in time to see Tionel lift the bowl.
"NO!" she shouts out, her voice filled with an agony far different than the cry of warning one might expect from a simple trap. A moment passes. Then another. And a third.
"Sorry," she says, somewhat sheepishly. "I was thinking ... Well, I thought that maybe ... I mean, I thought that maybe the bowl might have something to do with this ... this place. You know, like, maybe it keeps it going, or, or, maybe keeps it alive even. I mean, you know more about this kind of thing than I do, Tionel. But ... But I'd hate to kill this beautiful place by taking away it's bowl."
The rogue and professional thief is now gone. A thin, dark, red-headed girl, somewhat embarrassed by her outburst, stands in her place.
"Um, by the by, there's another bowl in here," she says pointing behind her to the chalk circle drawn onto the tree.
OOC (Bad DM MikeK) Monday April 12th, 2004 8:06:14 AM
Ach! I forgot Syr!
Syr can make another post if you want.
Angus Monday April 12th, 2004 9:09:42 AM
Angus head perks up "Xenia, did you say there is another bowl? Let me have a look to see if that one if magic also. We may have to bring a collection of cookery back to the Druids."
Angus looks over to Florin. " I am up for anything. I was just mentioning that we have had a full day already. I am very much for a hot bath and a warm soft bed tonight, if we can get back to the city."
Angus stands realizing that his rest is over. "Is there anything else we should bring back to the druids?" He asks no one in particular.
Angus moves over toward Tionel and looking at the bowl he adds "Do druid sects like one another. One sects would not hire a group of adventurers to steal a bowl from another sect would or could they....."
Syr Monday April 12th, 2004 1:19:05 PM
Syr jumps as Xenia yells at Tionel to stop and spins around quickly looking for a threat. Seeing nothing obvious, he relaxes "Another bowl you say? How do we know which is the right one?" He walks slowly over to Tionel and examines the bowl in the druids hands. "Let's grab that other bowl and compare?"
Wynn d20+6=23 Monday April 12th, 2004 2:38:24 PM
The bard stands close to Xenia and puts the ring back on his finger. "Two bowls" Wynn shakes his head in wonderment. Unable to provide much assistance in this puzzle, Wynn keeps an eye out for trouble [Spot=23]
Tionel Monday April 12th, 2004 4:12:26 PM
Tionel jumps slightly when Xenia calls out and whirls around...he sees it's just the pretty half-elf and smirks as he listens to her apology. "Right..." He glances at Angus, and replies, "Well, i don't know much about druid sects. But guessing games won't help us. We should be cautious when we get back to the druids; ask them what sort of place this is, and such." Humming to himself, he wanders over to Xenia's bowl and examines it. And shrugs. "Ummm...angus, is this one magical, too? Can you tell which bowl is stronger in magic?"
Xenia/OoC Monday April 12th, 2004 4:51:39 PM
BTW, Xenia hasn't touched the 2nd bowl. Everything is still in the little nook in the tree.
Lang d20+5=18 d20+5=13 Monday April 12th, 2004 9:16:06 PM
Lang decides that it is best to leave the decisions up to people who are more knowledgeable of the situation than him.
He will keep watch, looking for anything that might be dangerous.
Rolls: Spot 18 Listen 13
Florin Jadenth Monday April 12th, 2004 10:43:25 PM
Florin looks to the others and frowns when hearing about two bowls and sighs, "Great, if both bowls are the same then we have a very big problem, or if we can't tell the difference....maybe we are suppose to replace the one with the other or something."
Oh look, it IS guarded (DM MikeK) d20+10=14 d20+10=15 d8+3=11 d8+3=4 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 8:19:51 AM
[I'm cutting your last post to one combat round, which is all the time you had]
Xenia shouts a warning at Tionel, and waits for something horrible to happen.
Angus looks at Xenia, and moves to join Tionel.
Syr looks around at Xenia's cry, then he also moves to join Tionel.
Wynn moves over to join Xenia. The sharp eyed bard spots a movement in the trees. It appears as a blurred slippage moving across the foliage.
Lang also spots the blurred effect in the dome.
Florin finishes adjusting his armor while trying to make sense of the various dicoveries.
Tionel starts at Xenia's cry as well. He carries the large wooden bowl as he moves over to see what she has discovered.
As the druid moves, two javelin like spears, each a foot long, fly out of the trees' dome with a high pitched whirr. Wynn and Lang see the spears emerging from the blurred spot. Both of them slam into Tionel. [hit ac14 for 11hp, hit ac 15 for 4 hp - 15hp damage total]
Wynn and Lang get a full round action. Everyone else is limited to a standard action. A Spot check vs DC 16 is required every round to determine the location of the blurred effect. Otherwise it is effectively invisible. For this round, Wynn and Lang can see it and do not need to make the spot check.
Angus, AC 14 - 13 hitpoints d20+3=21 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 9:23:43 AM
Angus will call out upons seeing Tionel become a pincushsion. (Spot 21)"There in the trees!" and he will point in the direction that the javelin's came from for all to see.
Angus will then cast mage armor on himself (second level slot) for his standard action.
Angus looks to his sling and dagger and is not happy
Xenia(AC17 HP22/23) d20+9=11 d20+9=10 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 11:18:07 AM
"Where? Where?" Xenia fights the urge to run to Tionel. Stupid. Stupid. What could she do for him?
Instead, she draws her sling out of her belt, and keeps searching for one of those little sneak monsters to show itself.
[[ Spot 11 / Listen (Worse) 10 ]]
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) d20+7=13 d20+7=19 d8+2=5 d8+2=3 d20+5=22 d20+5=13 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 6:26:56 PM
As the darts fly through the air at Tionel, Lang will shout a warning to the group, "Enemy!" Lang will then draw an arrow and shoot at the blurred area with his longbow and then quickly shoot again.
PBSrs attack; hitting ac 13 & ac 19; damage 5 & 3 if they hit. Note: This is without any minuses for the blurred effect.
Rolls: Spot 22 Listen 13
Florin Jadenth Tuesday April 13th, 2004 6:53:36 PM
Florin frowns and calls out, "Tionel, retreat to the group now friend." Florin otherwise pulls his longsword and readies his shield once more. Not bothering to look for the enemies as they are to far away for him to attack.
Florin does think and call out to Angus, "Angus, is there any simple spell that you can use to make spotting the enemy easier? Maybe Tionel can use create water?"
(I was thinking maybe Prestidigation (misspelled) or something of that nature.)
Wynn(AC 18, HP 35) Spring Attack d20+8=16 d6=5 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:42:45 PM
Wynn takes his shortbow, and nocks an arrows which he then lets fly towards the blurr. (Hit AC 16, for 5 dmg.) Keeping his eyes on the effect, he moves towards Tionel in order to provide the injured elf with some degree of cover. The bard call's out to warn the party that they are not alone.
(OOC: Wynn can take a full move due to Spring Attack)
Syr d20+8=18 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 2:47:05 AM
The elf looks upward as the javelins come raining down on Tionel. spotting the blur above them he rushes forward to help his friend. He uses one hand to assist Tionel back toward the archers on the west side of the bowl. The other he keeps free for any javelins (Deflect Arrows). Seeing their marksmanship he shouts encouragement, "Nice shooting, keep that ...thing busy for a second."
Temple Guardian - rd2 (DM MikeK) d20+10=28 d20+10=17 d8+3=10 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 10:24:15 AM
Angus spots the blurriness and points it out to the others. He then casts a protective spell on himself.
Xenia can't find the enemy. She searches in frustration.
Lang fires two arrows. He is sure one of them hit.
Florin draws his sword, and tries to come up with a way to get at the thing.
Wynn lets fly with an arrow, which misses. He moves between the effect and Tionel.
Syr also moves to cover Tionel, guiding the druid toward the relative protection of the two archers.
Tionel, smarting from the wound, allows Syr to move him toward the others.
Two more missiles fly out from the tree tops toward Wynn. The bard dodges one of them. [hit ac 28 for 10 hp, hit ac17 (miss)]
Those who make their next Spot check see the effect has moved to the trunk of the north tree, about 20' above Xenia.
Please include your ac and any magic in effect in the Post Name.
Guardian has AC 19.
Again, make another Spot DC16 to engage this round.
A PC may take a move action to point out the blurred effect to give everybody else a +1 bonus on their spot check.
Xenia(AC17 HP22/23) d20+9=14 d20+7=27 d4=4 d20+8=13 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 10:43:14 AM
"What? Where?"
Xenia looks around frantically trying to pick out something that is directly over her head. Her sling stands ready to fire upon anything that makes itself known.
[[ Ready Action. If triggered, Hit AC28(forgot 1 for Masterwork sling) for 4 Damage. Missed Critical. ]]
Angus AC 14 HP 13 Mage Armor d20+3=9 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 1:01:10 PM
Angus can not longer see (spot 9)the attackers "I lost them too Xenia!" Angus adds frantically as he loads a bullet into his sling. Angus thinks to himself, when was the last time you actually used your sling. Note to self: weapons practice is a must once we get back to the city.
Florin Jadenth d20+1=12 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 3:41:35 PM
Florin frowns as he is unable to spot the thing attacking them. He does make note of how high up the attacks are being made from (meaning previous throws of missle weapons were made) and takes the time to sheath his longsword and ready his glaive since he will need the extra reach from the looks.
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) d20+5=22 d20+5=14 d20+7=25 d20+7=25 d8+2=5 d8+2=10 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:04:34 PM
Lang concentrates hard on keeping the enemy in sight and a thin smile comes to his face as he launches another volley of arrows at the foe. The smile gets bigger as both arrows solidly connect.
PBSrs attack; hitting ac 25 & ac 25; damage 5 & 10.
Rolls: Spot 22 Listen 14
Wynn (AC 18, HP25/35) d20+6=23 d20+8=25 d6=2 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 10:31:30 PM
There is a sharp intake of breath as Wynn is hit, but the bard's keen eyes continue to follow the blurr that signifies something is out there. Drawing another red fletched arrow, he carefully aims his shot for the center of the effect and hits! (Hit AC25, 2 dmg.) "Aim where I aim!" calls the bard.
Syr d20+8=12 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 11:40:25 PM
Syr stands moves in front of Tionel and tries to spot the blur. "Darn, I just had it now I can't find it!" Seeing the pair of archers shooting at a particular spot, he moves his body between that and the wounded elf. As both of Lang's arrow strike true he raises an eyebrow. He utters softly, "Formidable."
Tionel d20+7=13 Thursday April 15th, 2004 2:48:14 AM
Tionel sits back, and spends a round pulling out a wand and healing himself. No use saying he can't see a thing in this forest, but somehow, this act disappoints him.
Temple Guardian - rd 3 (DM MikeK) d20+8=11 d20+8=26 d10+3=5 Thursday April 15th, 2004 8:34:17 AM
Xenia gets out her sling, but can't find a target.
Angus also gets out a sling, although he's not real happy about it. He also cannot find a target.
Florin switches to his glaive.
Lang pops the creature with two arrows. The ranger is in the zone. [Foe is outside 30', so no atk bonus please]
Wynn also scores a hit.
Syr stays between where he thinks the creature is and Tionel. He stands there appreciating Lang's skill.
Tionel heals himself with a wand. [Roll healing points please.]
Xenia hears a soft thump beside her, and then something blurry rips into her. She feels the stinging stab of a piercing weapon, like a spear. Fortunately, her instincts take over, and she twists away from serious damage. [hit ac11 - miss hit ac26 for 5 hp]
Just as quickly, the presence is gone.
Spot DC 16 to see it on the tree trunk 10' above Xenia's head.
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 d20+3=13 Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:11:08 AM
Angus calls frantically to Xenia "Come over to us, quick! We must get the group together and face these foes as one!
Angus can still not see where the attacks are coming from (spot 13) and gives up with the sling. Angus puts the sling away and takes out the wand of color spray and keeps a keen eye out for next round.
Xenia (AC17+1Dodge vs the thing she just spotted, HP17/23) d20+9=22 Thursday April 15th, 2004 11:40:32 AM OW! FRAMBLE HEAVEN!
The red-headed rogue jumps, then scurries to stand next to Wynn before looking back for whatever bit her.
SHE SEES IT! SHE SEES IT! (Three small red dots target her forehead ... Oops sorry, wrong movie.)
"SYR! THERE IT IS!" Xenia points frantically at the what-ever-it-is. "CAN YOU JUMP UP AND GRAB IT?"
[[ Spot 22 / Used Standard action as Move action, +1 to Syrdeth's Spot ]]
Syr d20+9=14 Thursday April 15th, 2004 12:51:20 PM
Syr looks straight at the area where Xenia is pointing and still fails to see the creature. He takes a few steps toward her in preparation but stops when it's obvious that he has no idea what he is looking for. Frustrated he growls, "GRAB what? I still can't see it! How come everyone can spot it but me?"
Wynn (AC 18, HP25/35) d20+6=24 d20+8=17 Thursday April 15th, 2004 5:03:17 PM
Wynn once again is able to spot the blurred creature and fires another arrow, narrowly missing the creature. The bard shoulders his bow and readies his longsword now that the battle has closed. Wynn struggles to shut the pain out of his mind and focuses on the battle at hand.
Florin Jadenth d20+2=15 Thursday April 15th, 2004 7:00:25 PM
Florin frowns and stands back watchign and sighs to himself, "Don't feel bad Syr, I can't see the stupid thing either."
(Spot:15)
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+6=20 d20+6=14 d20+7=26 d20+7=25 d8+2=10 d8+2=3 Thursday April 15th, 2004 7:58:35 PM
Lang sees nothing but the enemy, everything else is a blur to him. To Lang it seems have a big circle on it for him to fire his arrows into.
Lang yells out to the enemy, "You cannot hide from me!
The smile is from ear to ear now as 2 more arrows sink deep into its side.
PBSrs attack; hitting ac 26 & ac 25; damage 10 & 3.
Rolls: Spot 20 (with the +1 from Xenia) Listen 13 (less +1 added by mistake)
OOC: If you mean Point Blank Shot's +1/+1 within 30', I do not have that feat so am not including it in my rolls.
Tionel Friday April 16th, 2004 4:25:43 AM
"This is kinda funny..." Tionel can't help but muse. "All my hunches so far today seem to be wrong..."
Temple Guardian - rd4 (DM MikeK) d20+8=24 d20+8=11 d20+6=25 d20+6=14 d20+6=16 d10+3=13 d8+2=3 Friday April 16th, 2004 10:10:06 AM
Angus, not trusting his accuracy with a sling, switches to a wand.
Xenia takes cover beside Wynn, and points out the effect.
Syr still can't find it.
Wynn can, but misses with an arrow shot. The bard switches to his sword in preparation for melee combat.
Florin is getting annoyed.
Lang is smokin' hot. Two more arrows slam into the creature.
Tionel waxes philosophical.
As Wynn is switching over, he sees the blurred effect drop down to the platform again and rapidly close on himself and Tionel. The druid also makes out the effect as, at the last moment, it appears in front of him.
Silent and implacable, the creature continues its assault.
A stabbing sensation pierces the druid's reverie as a spear like object slams into him. [hit ac24 for 13 hp damage atk ac11 - miss]
Meanwhile, a bludgeoning attack pummels the bard. Fortunately for Wynn, his armor wards off most of the blows. [hit ac25 for 3hp damage atk ac14 - miss atk ac16 - miss]
Wynn and Tionel are in melee, and can automatically see the effect. Its as if the scenery slides with the creature [very Predator-esque]. Everybody else still needs a spot 16 to see it. If Syr plans to swing around Tionel, he needs a Balance check DC 12 to avoid falling off the side of the platform.
Xenia (AC17+1Dodge vs this critter she spotted, HP17/23) d20+9=20 d20+11=15 d20+7=25 d6=5 2d6(5+1)=6 Friday April 16th, 2004 10:57:24 AM There you are, you sneaky little rastische, the dark rogue thinks, while the whole time wishing that she could do that camo thing too.
Flame head drops her sling, and with a snap of her fingers, a short sword springs into her hands. Two steps and a roll bring her up behind Mister I'm-So-Invisible-To-You opposite Tionel, and she cuts at it's back.
Xenia - OoC Friday April 16th, 2004 11:00:25 AM
Ooops. Sorry, no sneak. Tionel is not holding a melee weapon. Damage should be 5.
However, this does give Tionel +2 to Hit from Flanking.
Wynn (AC 18, HP22/35) d20+10=21 d20+9=19 d8+3=7 Friday April 16th, 2004 8:04:55 PM
Wynn sheds the blows of his opponent and moves into a flanking position, tumbling if necessary to avoid an attack of opportunity [tumble=21]. The bard slashes hard across the blurred form [Hit AC=19, 7 dmg] and then leaps back out of range of any return attack [Spring attack]
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+5=22 d20+5=8 d20+5=11 d20+3=19 d20+3=10 d8+2=8 Saturday April 17th, 2004 2:39:21 PM
Lang is getting a little concerned as he has shot and hit this creature 5 times and it does not appear to be slowing down. Keeping the creature in view (Spot 22), he takes a quick glance towards the ground to see if he can see blood from the creature's wounds (spot 8).
Taking careful aim not to hit his companions, he shoots 2 more arrows, hoping to drop this creature (-4).
PBSrs attack; hitting ac 19 & ac 10; damage 8.
Rolls: Spot the creature 22 Spot any blood 8 Listen 11
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 d20+3=19 Saturday April 17th, 2004 2:51:07 PM
Angus, keeping a careful eye on the creature, will retreat the short distance back towards Florin and Lang and take up a position on Lang's right.
Angus will use the wand on the creature only if it approaches him. If this happens, he will attempt to not got any of his companions in the cone-shaped burst (ready standard action - activate a magic item).
Florin Jadenth-HP:40-AC:15 (no shield) d20+1=15 Saturday April 17th, 2004 11:46:11 PM
Florin once again thinks he sees the creature but then again he he notices it was only his imagination as he stands where he is, using his glaive to try an defend himself against any possible blows to come. (Spot:15)
(OOC:Sorry I hadn't been posting my HPs and AC before Mike.)
Tionel (AC 14, hp 11/41) d20+6=25 d20+6=21 d6+1=7 d6+1=5 Monday April 19th, 2004 1:16:54 AM
"AAAaaaaaaagh!" the rather calm elf yelps as he is hit yet again. His sword comes out in a metallic shriek (Why are scimitars not counted as being made of metal anyways? Never understood that - Mikey) and, with a smooth movement, slashes at the blur before him. "Leave Me Alone!" (Flanking, hit AC 25, crit threat 21, did 7 damage, 12 if I hit the critical)
Syr (AC 18, HP 47) d20+7=12 d20+8=19 d8+5=12 Monday April 19th, 2004 1:29:01 AM
The elf finally spots the creature attacking Tionel and slides carefully around the bard to launch an attack. For a moment, he stares out over the drop as he almost loses his balance (balance 12, *phew*).
Recovering quickly, he launches a blow at the creature, "Brother, get those wounds tended to and get out of harm's way." He connects solidly (attack 19, damage 12)
Temple Guardian - rd5 (DM MikeK) d20+8=15 d20+8=16 d10+3=12 d10+3=4 d20+6=8 d20+6=19 d20+6=11 d8+2=8 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:50:49 AM
Xenia rolls behind the creature and slashes at its backside. Her blade bites into it quite nicely.
With Tionel and Xenia flanking the creature, Wynn finds he's got no place to go to get a flanking attack. He stands where he is, taking a slash at the creature and then springing back to avoid a return blow. His blade merely glances off the thing's hide. [No flanking bonus, so the roll is only 17]
Lang cannot spot any blood. But he does manage to thread an arrow over Tionel's right shoulder and into the creature with a thwack. The ranger's second arrow sails high.
Angus prudently backs out of the way.
Florin sees a whole lot of action, but still can't see what everyone is fighting.
Tionel comes alive, brandishing his scimitar and striking a solid blow.
[Note -- Creature is immune to crits and sneak attacks]
Syr flashes around Tionel's left side. The druid's sudden movement with the scimitar nearly knocks the monk off the platform. After a half second of contemplation on just how far down the ground really is, Syr recovers his balance, and lands a solid kick.
The combined strikes of the various party members do something, as the blurred effect falls away like a veil, leaving a solid creature for everyone (even Florin) to see. What they see is a humaniodish looking something that looks as though it is covered in a light, flexible tree bark - it is built like a tall, barrel-chested humanoid with the addition of three long tails sprouting from its lower back. A long, nasty barbed spine protrudes from each knuckle, and its face is void of any form of sensory detection - no eyes, no mouth, no nose, no ears.
The body of this...whatever...is covered in scratches and cuts, as well as multiple arrow wounds. Not that the wounds appear to slow it down.
It continues its assault on Tionel, attacking with its spine fists. Both fists slam into the druid, who slumps heavily to the platform floor. [hit ac15 for 12 hp damage hit ac16 for 4 hp damage. 16 hp damage total]
Simultaneously, the three tails, each ending in a wooden, club like ball, swing at the rogue behind him. One connects heavily with Xenia. [atk ac 8, miss hit ac19, 8 hp damage atk ac 11, miss]
[Creature's ac is still 19, but no spot check is needed any longer to engage.
Xenia (AC24 [+1Dodge vs Guardian+4TotalDefense+2DefenseBonusFromTumble] HP 9/23) Monday April 19th, 2004 10:27:11 AM "Tionel!" Xenia screams in horror as the dapper elf falls.
"Bastige!" she screams at the tree thing, her dark upper lip curling into a snarl.
Then the tails begin flashing all around her, and one catches her a good one. The pain makes her get real.
Back to the tree, she drops into a competely defensive crouch. The dark rogue reaches behind her to a pouch on her haversack, and comes back with two potions. (CLW)
Keep it busy. Keep it busy. She repeats in her head. The mantra draws in her focus. "Hang in there, Tionel," she whispers her words shot through with worry. "Help's coming, Tionel. Help's coming."
[[ Total Defense is now a Standard Action. With 5+ Ranks in Tumble it adds 6 to AC. Wow. ]]
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+3=9 d20+3=18 d20+5=16 d20+5=8 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:31:32 PM
Lang is happy when the creature becomes visible and easier to keep track of. He is even happier that the creature appears to be taking damage from the weapon strikes and from the missile assaults.
When the ranger sees one companion felled by the beast and another severely wounded, he once again takes careful aim and shoots 2 more arrows. Unfortunately, he is not able to find a clear line to the beast and his shots go wide.
PBSrs attack; hitting ac 9 & ac 18.
Rolls: Spot 16 Listen 8
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 d20+2=21 d3=1 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:46:02 PM
Angus, deciding that every little bit of damage will help, casts Ray of Frost at the creature, scoring a hit.
Ray of Frost hitting AC 21 for 1 HP of damage.
OOC -- Does ranged touch get the same --4 shooting into combat as a bow? If it does, then this is a miss.
Wynn d20+7=24 d8+3=4 Monday April 19th, 2004 10:42:59 PM
Wynn sees Tionel drop and then hears Xenia's cry. Looking for an opening he darts forward and slashes with his longsword [Hit AC=24 for 4 dmg] The bard dances back out of the way [Spring Attack] and dodges any favors returned by the creature [Effective AC=19].
"Tira ten rashwe! Be careful, that tail has a bite!" he calls out to the group. "Can anyone talk to it? Sylvan perhaps?"
Florin Jadenth-HP:40-AC:15 (no shield) d20+8=9 d20+8=11 d20+4=22 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:17:43 AM
(OOC:Small comment on my rolls. I looked at the book but do not quite get the bonuses for using a special attack of the type Florin is so the first attack was a normal to hit. The 2nd d20+8 was a messup since it was actually suppose to be a str check. The d20+4 is a str check. Sorry for making this to confusing MikeK.)
Florin frowns when he sees the creature suddenly appear and growls under his breath when he sees Tionel drop.
Florin decides on his action rather quickly, wanting to get the creature away from Tionel and waits for a opening to come before chargining in, lowering his glaive as he charges in, "YOU WILL NOT HARM ANYONE ELSE OR KILL MY FRIENDS!!"
Florin is going to try and either hit the creature with his glaive with a rush and possibly push the creature over the side or just ram the creature with his body to send it over the side. (If it results in a body blow to get the creature over the side then Florin will follow through with it. Doing his best to make sure if he goes over the edge also that he keeps the creature under him.)
Syr d20+9=23 d20+9=28 d8+5=8 d8+5=10 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:39:29 AM
The elf dances to the right side (5') as Florin appears to be trying to push the creature over the edge, "Hey NOW! I'm not wearing the ring!" Marveling at his rage, he wonders for a moment if the paladin is actually a berserker similar to a half-orc he once knew.
After sliding closer to the center of the platform, he unleashes a kick and a punch on this barkskinned creature (Attack 23,28 Damage 8+10=18). Noting that it can be damaged, he calls out to the paladin, "Florin! Don't even think of going over! We can take this... thing."
Temple Guardian-rd6 4d6(6+3+2+2)=13 4d6(4+5+1+2)=12 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 8:47:47 AM
Xenia backs away from the clublike tails whacking at her, and goes totally defensive.
Lang finally starts missing with his bow.
Angus mumbles an incantation, and points his finger at the creature. A beam of cold white light streaks out, ending with a hiss on the creature's hide. [Not sure about the --4, but it doesn't matter since the creature's touch ac is 14]
Wynn darts in, slashes with his sword, and darts out.
Tionel bleeds.
Florin roars in defiance at the creature hurting his friends. The paladin weaves in front of Lang and around Tionel, working to get a clear shot at the enemy. Continuing his movement, Florin lowers his glaive and plows into the creature. With fierce determination, the paladin keeps driving forward until both he and the creature plummet over the side of the platform! [OK. Florin performed a move action to get a straight shot, and then a Bull Rush. Creature's Take 10 DC vs Bull Rush = 13. Florin rolled a 22. He gets no charging bonus since he couldn't charge in a straight line. Florin wins the rush, pushing back 5', not enough to get it over the edge. Since Florin wins by more than 5, he can (and does) move with the creature another 5', getting both of them over]
Syr can only watch as the two tumble over the side.
The paladin tries to keep the creature under him, but both end up slamming to the turf side by side. Florin takes 13 hp damage.
After the impact, the creature doesn't move. It's chest appears to have collapsed into itself.
As soon as the creature hits the ground, everyone immediately feels a sense of foreboding and guilt, that tingling, watched sensation that the veterans instantly recognize as the forest's "feel".
Xenia (HP 14/23) d8+1=6 d8+1=5 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:43:46 AM "Shambling wastebaggers," Xenia mutters quietly under her breath as she stands in stunned amazement, watching Florin take the tree thing over the edge with him.
Then "The Crying Woods" returns. The half elven girl takes the briefest of moments to take in the beautiful domed temple around them for what is probably the last time. "No points for finesse this trip," she says to no one in particular. Maybe that last whack from the tree-bark guy was harder than she though, but she has this kind of crushed feeling of inner peace that goes beyond the heebies that the Crying Woods gives her.
Xenia steps to Tionel's side and, taking his head into her lap, pours a potion down his throat. (CLW: Heal 6 HP)
She takes the other one herself. (CLW: Heal 5 HP) And, when (if) Tionel sits up, she herself stands. With a decidedly unhappy face, the now even darker rogue limps over to the hidden shelf set in the tree and removes it's contents, mumbling something about, "might as well."
Florin Jadenth-HP:27/40-AC:15 (no shield) Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:14:12 AM
Everything seems to go in slow motion for Florin as he goes over the side with the creature. He watches it as he falls, it seems like a eternity as he falls and then he feels the very painful impact of the ground and him.
Florin lays motionless for a few moments, his mind swirling in thoughts, he wonders if the group is okay and for a moment even thinks he sees Domi but he quickly comes out of it as his mind settles on the creature that went over with him.
Florin quickly sits up, couching once which makes abit of blood spit out of his mouth and looks around. His mind foggy and feeling almost like he is in a feral state at the moment. Once his eyes focus on the creature and sees it's dead he falls back on the ground and groans, now feeling the serious effects of the fall and wondering if any bones are broken. After a few moments he calls up to the group, "Is everyone okay up there? The creature is dead, we better hurry and get out of here."
Florin stays laying where he fell, bruised, sore and hurting.
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) Tuesday April 20th, 2004 1:19:45 PM
Lang moves to the edge of the platform where the beast and Florin went over. Looking over he sees Florin moving and says, "Florin is hurt, but alive. The creature appears to be dead or dying."
"Tionel is down, but we are trying to help him", Lang will yell down after Florin speaks.
"Xenia, I have a cure light potion for Tionel if it is needed", states the Ranger.
"I do not like this feeling, maybe it was wrong to kill the beast", Lang says to no one in particular as he looks around the platform.
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 1:41:15 PM
As the sense of foreboding and guilt washes over Angus and the group, he realizes that the group is very hurt and that he is low on spells. He says to the group, "Is there anything else here to search? Should we search the south tree as all the others had surprises to them? If not, then let's figure a way out of here and back to the city!"
OOC - I think Angus had cast Detect Magic before. It last 4 minutes for him. If he has time left on the spell, he will look at the pedestal, the items that Xenia retrieved if she does not store them immediately and then around the rest of the platform looking for magic.
Wynn (AC 18, HP22/35) 2d8(3+8)+2=13 d20+1=6 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:23:18 PM
Wynn jumps down to Florin's side, slowly settling to the ground as the ring takes effect. The bard touches the paladin with his wand [CLW for 13 hp] and then checks the creature for signs of life but cannot tell what to look for [Heal Check = 6].
"Are any of you more proficient as a healer than I"? Wynn looks up to the group to see if any step forward. "Somehow I don't feel comfortable with our actions. It is not right to just leave this creature to die if it still lives..."
Tionel (1 hp) d8+1=2 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:27:04 AM
The elf comes to, his head in the pretty half-human's lap. "Owww..." he exhales, feeling the aches and pains all over. But he sits up. "Thank you, Xenia. Here..." He hops up, taking out his wand of curing, and begins by tapping her with it. Then, he'll tap himself.. (how long do we have to heal? 2 on first charge to Xenia, and keep on doing it to everyone till we're all full)
Syr Wednesday April 21st, 2004 3:24:56 AM
Looking down over the side, he eyes Florin, "You okay down there?" Seeing that the paladin is alright, Syr moves on to Tionel, "That wand may be the best investment we ever made!"
Shaking his head slowly, "Lang, I don't think we had much choice, look what it did to Tionel. Of course, our druid friend here DID pick up it's bowl without permission. I, for one, am quite content to leave this place as soon as Florin returns."
The elf takes the rope and lowers it down to Florin. "This feels familiar," he mutters to himself. Louder to Florin he calls down, "Just tie it around you and we cal all pull you up."
Fight Aftermath (DM MikeK) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 8:17:33 AM
While Florin spends some time checking that all his bones are in the same place as they were 2 minutes ago, the others move to various tasks on the platform.
Xenia pours a potion down Tionel's throat. The tonic stabilizes him, and the druid slowly stands. Then he gets busy with the healing wand. Xenia also takes a healing potion herself. [Tionel -- take/give 3 more shots with the wand this post. Remember to reroll all ones on healing -- house rule. You are counting charges on your sheet, right? ;P]
Lang reports on the condition of the party members to the rest of the party members and moves to help Tionel as well.
Angus tries to deal with effect of the woods. [Angus lost the Detect Magic when he stopped concentrating on it]
Wynn jumps off the platform, freaking out anybody who forgot he was wearing a ring, and floats to Florin's side. The bard gives him a shot with his wand, and then moves over to inspect the creature. He notices the chest cavity of the thing is hollow, no organs, no blood, nothing but an empty shell.
Syr lowers a rope to Florin and Wynn. The monk doesn't seem to trust the stairs. [Stairway on east tree. See yesterday's map]
Anyone making a Spot 10 will notice the Crying Woods encroaching on the lawn. Vines are already creeping into the open space.
Xenia d20+9=10 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 10:50:16 AM
Xenia feels the pain ease with each successive tap of the wand. The feeling of wounds closing is kind of weird and creep-ish, but it feels good too. When Tionel stops, the dark rogue gives him a quick kiss on the forehead. "Thanks," she says quietly.
Then, without another glance at the beautiful tree temple, she turns and retrieves all of the items from the hidden shelf in the tree. As she turns, the inward creep of the vines catches her attention.
"I think it's time to leave, guys," she calls out.
The stuff from the tree goes right into the haversack and she dashes to the large chalk circle that marks the door to the way they came in. "We need the rope in here, Syr," she says over her shoulder. "Only three at a time, remember? And the one's caught outside are left with the killer vine thingies."
By the by, who's got my climber's kit?"
[[ Spot 10 ]]
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+5=8 d20+5=15 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:31:40 PM
Lang will yell down to Wynn & Florin, "Is that thing heavy? Can you carry it? Maybe the Druids will want to look at it."
Lang will stow his bow in his quiver and draw his short swords.
Hearing Xenia say its time to go, he will move over to the tree with the opening. Lang will take up a defensive position and let everyone go through first before he goes through.
Rolls: Spot 8 Listen 15
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:38:35 PM
Angus, anxious to leave the area, moves over to the tree the group came through and moves through the membrane. Once inside, he will move to one side so other people can come through.
Florin Jadenth-HP:40-AC:15 (no shield) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:47:14 PM
Florin nods to Wynn and smiles, "Thanks for the healing. It seems the creature will hurt no one anymore and my new friend, I fear we had no other choice in this matter. Once again a kill or be killed situation."
Florin frowns when he hears it's time to go so urgently and quickly grabs and hands the rope to Wynn that Sly has, "You go first, I think I might need my armor and in that case they will need help getting me up there." Florin smiles and nods to Wynn now as Florin quickly looks and grabs his glaive, putting it up so it's secured to his backpack.
Florin will tie the rope to his waist after Wynn has been hoisted up and also call up to Syr, "I still have my armor on so make sure you have someone to help you in pulling me up."
(OOC:Would have Florin climb but in his darn armor it nullifies all his points in climb.)
Syr Wednesday April 21st, 2004 2:22:22 PM
With Lang's mention of the druids the elf gets a worried look on his face, "Tionel, do you think the druids are going to be upset that the tree-guardian didn't survive? We've already managed to make enemies of the Anvil Heart Gang, I would hate to think that the druids are upset too?"
"Hey Lang, do you sleep with that bow?" With a grin he adds, "Get over here and give me a hand pulling our jumpers up?"
To Xenia, "Let me get these guys back first? And I'm sure we need Wynn's ring. I am really looking forward to that! It must be great to just drift down slowly."
Looking over the edge at the two below, "Hey, who has got the other bowl?"
(OOC: I thought Syr was outside the tree temple when the stairs were discovered and I had the impression that they were hidden. Hence roleplaying the rope :)
Xenia (Again) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 3:57:05 PM
The half-elf turns just before going through the membrane.
"Stairs, guys! Stairs," she shouts, pointing. And then she's gone.
OoC: Seriously, who has the climber's kit? If nobody speaks up, can I assume that it's at the bottom of the ladder, DM? That's the last place I roleplayed it. Lowering it and the ring down from the platform.
Wynn Wednesday April 21st, 2004 9:52:44 PM
Heeding Xenia's warning about the encroaching forest, Wynn heads for the stairs and climbs them as rapidly as possible. He will wait for Florin before being one of the last to enter the tree. The bard readies his sword against any further attacks.
Florin Jadenth (Amendment to previous post) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 10:22:50 PM
(OOC:I actually missed the part about the stairs but Florin will take the stairs instead then. Also once he reaches Xenia he will give her the climbing kit. I figure if Florin had the ring then he must of been holding on to the climbing kit.)
Tionel d8+1=6 d8+1=4 d8+1=3 d20+1=19 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:19:17 AM
( 6 to xenia, 7 to Tionel. I have, er... 50-11=39 charges now, I think.) Tionel taps the feminine rogue once before she goes about descending and stuff. Then he focuses on himself, for there's no need to be on one's last legs just as there might be a bit of danger. Feeling a bit better, he says, "I'll go next. Uh...please be ready to catch me." He puts his wand back into the sack, and attempts a quick, easy descent. This time, luck is with him, for he goes down quite easily and without much hurry, smooth and slow, hand over hand. As he does, he comments, "Don't worry...the druids didn't even know that this place had a guardian, and if they did, they would have told us a way to avoid tampering with it."
Time to go (DM MikeK) Thursday April 22nd, 2004 9:44:13 AM
Having recovered the bowl for the Circle of the Alder, our heroes go about returning home. Several members contemplate the temple and its guardian, wondering who put them here, and how much trouble they may have caused in killing it. Others just want to get out of dodge.
Xenia retrieves the smaller ceramic bowl of gold pieces and the wand from the compartment on the north tree. Then she goes through the membrane on the west tree.
Angus follows Xenia.
Wynn and Florin easily ascend the stairway, and get back on the platform through the arc on the east tree. Florin passes the climber's kit through the membrane to Xenia.
Syr and Lang watch the slowly encroaching wood. As long as nothing changes, it appears it'll take a good hour before any plant life reaches the temple.
Tionel ducks into the west tree after Xenia and Angus.
Which puts Xenia, Angus, and Tionel on the crowded shelf inside the hollow West Tree, and the other four outside the tree. Xenia has the stuff from the north tree, Tionel has the wooden bowl, Syr has the rope, Xenia has the climber's kit, and Wynn has the Feather Fall ring.
Xeina (HP20/23) d20+7=25 d20+7=19 d20+7=20 d20+7=21 d20+7=16 d20+9=24 d20+9=21 d20+7=12 d20+7=27 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 11:47:54 AM
The dark rogue heads right down the ladder. Not surprisingly, going down seems a lot easier than going up.
As she nears the bottom, Xenia clings to the wooden rungs and scans the area for danger.
Florin Jadenth Thursday April 22nd, 2004 12:54:35 PM
Florin waits at the membrane doorway and calls through it he hopes as he waits, "The last person going off the platform please let us know so we can start moveing in."
Florin looks to Wynn, "ummm Wynn...how good are you climbing abilities considering your armor is lighter?" Florin smiles sheepishly, "I'm afraid that if I try climbing down I might as well jump."
Syr Thursday April 22nd, 2004 1:47:02 PM
As Florin makes it to the top of the platform he nudges the paladin, "Hey Flor, any more flying lessons planned?"
Seeing Wynn behind him"Hey, Wynn do you mind if we share that ring once more? Good thing to have handy, where did you pick it up?" Assuming he is given the ring, he ties it on to one strand of the rope.
Standing by the membrane, the elf passes the coiled rope through speaking loudly, "Guys use the rope to pass the ring back and forth?"
Alone with Lang, "It looks like we are on the way home. We have a nice place back in the city, it now looks like we have a couple spare bedrooms, do you guys need a place to stay?"
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+5=13 d20+5=18 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:10:02 PM
Standing guard with Syr as the others pass through the membrane and climb down, "Syr it is a real shame that the forest is going to destroy this beautiful temple. I wonder if we should have done something different or if the Druids knew what would happen when we took the bowl. I sure hope Tionel realizes it was out of our hands."
Sheathing his short swords, Lang will take his bow out of his quiver and hand it to Syr and say proudly, "I made it myself". With a big grin on his face he says, "Of course I sleep with it. With this ugly mug who else would (Cha 9)!"
As Lang stows his bow once again he will say to Syr, "I only recently met Wynn so I do not know his housing arrangement. As for myself, it would be my pleasure to shack up with you guys. I mean who wouldn't want to have a flying Paladin as a roommate. Is there room for my dog?"
Rolls: Spot 13 Listen 18
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:18:00 PM
Angus will put the wand back into one of his pouches and say to Tionel, "I will need help climbing down and would rather be lowered by the rope. Can you hold my weight?"
If the ring is passed in then Angus will use that.
Wynn Thursday April 22nd, 2004 4:48:17 PM
Wynn passes the ring to Syr who then moves it along to those inside the tree. "I picked it up from a trader out of Izen" the bard recounts to the elf. "It has come in handy more than once."
"As for lodgings once we return...I've only been through Floating City once...to get here! I have no place to stay."
Down and out (DM MikeK) Friday April 23rd, 2004 10:52:55 AM
Xenia climbs down, while most of the others plan to use Wynn's ring.
Between the ladder, rope, and ring, everyone eventually gets themselves squeezed into the bottom of the tree.
The conversation turns to where Wynn and Lang are going to stay.
Tionel d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d20+7=10 d20+6=21 Friday April 23rd, 2004 7:58:42 PM
"The more pressing problem is going to be getting back to the boat. Watch out for lizards...let's get going." Tionel taps himself with the wand twice more for good measure. Still a little bruised but feeling okay, he keeps a good watch for any more surprises along the way back to where they swam up to the cave interior. (Spot 10, listen 21)
Xenia(HP 20/23) d20+11=25 d20+9=29 d20+9=13 Friday April 23rd, 2004 9:17:29 PM
Xenia walks quietly back behind Tionel as they make their way down through the twisty tunnel. She's a pretty quiet half-elven girl for once, reflecting on all the stuff that has happened, and all of the things she's learned. Some of it is good. Some of it would make her dad proud. Good stuff. Training stuff. Some of it's not so good. Life stuff. Hard life stuff. But maybe he'd still be proud.
She practices walking as quietly as possible, and keeps her eyes peeled for trouble. Always stuff to work on. Always training.
"I wonder what all that stuff is that we got? hehehehe," she whispers to the others. Girls and stuff. Some things just don't change.
Lang (AC-18 & HP-36) d20+5=10 d20+5=18 Friday April 23rd, 2004 9:43:09 PM
Lang follows Syr through the membrane and down the interior of the tree. He will take up position at the rear of the group as it makes its way back to cave with the pool.
Lang will keep an eye and ear out for the lizards they fought earlier in the dy.
Rolls: Spot 10 Listen 18
Angus AC 14 (Mage Armor) HP 13 Friday April 23rd, 2004 9:46:32 PM
Angus falls in behind Tionel and Xenia as the group heads back towards the cave with the pool. If needed he will use his dagger with the light spell.
Florin Jadenth Friday April 23rd, 2004 9:54:43 PM
Florin does like the others, making his way down the tree and then along the tunnels with the others. He doesn't try watching to much since the others have a much more keen eye then his.
Florin does walk with a slight limp and he can feel that his ribs are bruised from the fall. Everything seems to be in good shape otherwise and he is glad to of went through the fall with little personal harm as he did. As he sees Tionel once more as they walk along he whispers up to him, "Glad your doing okay my friend." Florin also glances to Xenia and smiles to her, "I'm glad your okay too Xenia, I seen you were injured pretty good in the battle back there. I think I better stick with falling then acrobatics in the future."
Florin smirks to himself and wonders what the temple will say of his daring tactics back in the tree and decides that he might keep that just between him the group and Domi, he does take a moment to speak to Syr, "Sorry about back in the last battle. I'm glad I didn't cetch you and send you over the edge with me and the nasty little creature."
Wynn d20+6=15 d20+2=9 Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:06:59 PM
Wynn pulls the dart out of his shoulder and staunches the blood with a rag before heading through the membrane. He has heard that it is better to let a wound bleed for a bit to wash out any infection. He puts on the ring when it is his turn and steps off the platform to gently settle beside Xenia and Tionel at the bottom. As the troop heads off through the cave again he keeps a careful watch for lizards and other dangers [Spot=15, listen=9].
Syr Monday April 26th, 2004 5:57:18 AM
The elf uses the ring to get down and an expression of wonderment won't come off his face. He seems to have an extra bounce in his step all the way back to the cave. Once there, "Don't forget about the boatman Tionel, as long as he is there, his patience should be rewarded."
To the Cave! (DM MikeK) Monday April 26th, 2004 8:23:44 AM
The tunnel is still just as dark, and so Angus casts a Light spell on his dagger to light the way.
In spite of their recent experience in the tree structure, the underground tunnel remains exactly the same, dark and quiet. The group follows its twisting, downward passage in a single file.
The pass through the lizard cavern alertly, but nothing wants a second shot at them. The lizards killed by the party lie where they fell, a reminder that is really hasn't been that long since they arrived.
Exiting through the secret door, the group finds themselves overlooking the familiar sight of the underground pool. The bodies of the three dead Hearts lay stacked on the far side, and their equipment is in another pile.
Angus Monday April 26th, 2004 9:38:44 AM
Angus is tired and ready to go back to the city. Angus lets out a sigh " Lets hope no one jumps out of the water at us....Are we ready to go back to the city?" Angus adds to no one in particular.
Angus checks his gear as he gets ready to get wet.
OOC: Thank Matt for running Angus while I was gone.
Xenia(HP 20/23) Monday April 26th, 2004 1:41:38 PM
"Thanks," Xenia says, bouncing to Florin's side and giving him a quick hug. "Maybe you should get yourself one of those rings too? Might come in handy."
Then she makes a purse-lipped frown when Syrdeth mentions Minos. "Yeah, I'll reward him, Syr. If that letch tries to touch my butt one more time, I'll reward him one right in the nose."
Back in the underground grotto, Xenia kneels by the pile of "stuff" and begins putting what she can into the voluminous spaces of her haversack, taking care not to overload it. Then she places the haversack itself into the druid's waterproof sack.
Before standing, the red-headed rogue makes a smallish, sort of regretful glance at the three bodies, unceremoniously stacked on the stone ledge.
"Did you ... did you want to bury these guys, Florin?" she asks.
Florin Jadenth Monday April 26th, 2004 3:48:19 PM
Florin stops and looks to the bodies and nods, "Lang or Wynn, do you have enough room to pack whats left of the stuff these people had and that Xenia might not beable to carry."
Florin thinks of the visit some time back by the various ghosts who asked the group to find Daphne. Florin glances to Tionel and speaks to him as he motions to the bodies, "We need to bury these people. If they are not properly put to rest then they could cause more harm yet. Tionel? do you have any spells who might beable to help us out in the burial of these people?"
Florin will then sigh, "I need some type of digging tool and I will speak over these people before we go."
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) Monday April 26th, 2004 6:38:40 PM
"Yes, Florin I can carry some of the items that the people had. It does have to be items that are long and thin or fairly small."
Lang will then stow as much stuff into his quiver as possible without damaging it. He will then prepare his items for underwater travel, using the waterproof bags.
"Hey, can anyone tell if the waterbreathing potions are still working?"
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) cont. Monday April 26th, 2004 6:40:45 PM
Lang will help bury the dead bodies.
Tionel Monday April 26th, 2004 8:33:33 PM
"Bury them? Oh..." The elf thinks. "Burying people is really a city custom. I mean, why bury a person, except to see that his spirit is honored by the people burying him? Besides, if we bless him with your deity, these thieves will probably be even cursed more by their own deity due to their nature." More thoughts later. "I'm sure if we left them here, the lizards would eat them, or some other creatures will consume them. They have not been dishonored in death, and so will not come back as undead, I hope. Other than that, I see no reason to deal with them at all." With that, Tionel gets out the wand. "I will check ahead to make sure the boat is there, along with ..,uh, you, Wynn. We should make sure the boat is there before we all go."
Wait for Wynn's permission, then taps with the wand, and Tionel taps himself with the wand, and they head off to see that the boat's there... (While the others bury the thieves)`
Syr Tuesday April 27th, 2004 3:38:32 AM
After Tionel and Wynn leave, "Ever notice that our elf friend always has something to do when there is work to be done?" Shaking his head, he moves to help Florin with the last rites. He frowns but neatly begins to arrange the bodies, "Do you really think they would offer the same consideration to us? It will be really interesting once we get back to the city. I'm a bit nervous about our meeting. Well, first things first, let's take care of these souls."
Wynn Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:47:06 AM
Wynn stuffs the remaining items in his pack and wraps the lot in the waterproof sacks he had been provided earlier. He recieves the touch from the wand with a nod of his head to the elf, and a shrug of his shoulders to Lang and follows Tionel into the water, shouldering his pack as he goes.
Swimmin and Diggin (DM MikeK) d6=1 d6=1 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:10:59 AM
While Tionel and Wynn disappear under the water's surface to see if Minos stuck around, the rest of the group goes about the thankless task of burying bodies.
The cave is solid rock, so the group is going to have to haul the corpses to the clearing. They're heavy, and two have got various organ falling out of large holes. Its not pleasant work.
Now, has anyone got a shovel? [Tell me what you're using to dig] -----
Tionel and Wynn find themselves in a very dark tunnel. They either need to procure a light source, or make a Swim check DC 20 to avoid scraping across the jagged walls of the cavern and taking 2 hp damage.
Once the duo emerges from the tunnel, they find the boat anchor leading up to a vessel on the surface. The vessel is the same size and shape as the one they left. Swim check DC 10 to get to the surface and see it is, in fact, the Swift.
Angus Tuesday April 27th, 2004 11:21:48 AM
Angus is not overjoyed by the situation. " I vote we leave the bodies to the lizards. The lizards are hurt and can use the food."
Angus sits down on the most comfortable rock he can find and watches the three entrances into the cave: pool, tunnel and opening.
Once comfortable and checks his wineskin and takes a drink. "Anyone thirsty, I have a little wine left?" He asks to those toiling over the bodies.
Florin Jadenth d20+2=21 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 2:34:16 PM
Florin shakes his head and comments, "No Syr, they probably wouldn't but thats the difference between us and them."
After getting the bodies outside Florin will glance around (spot 21) for a rock that is big enough and flat to use as a shovel, if nothing else he will use his glaive if he knows it can take the digging without breaking.
(ooc:I know this is leaping ahead abit but anyway)
Once the graves are dug or hopefully dug, Florin and who ever helps will place one of the anvil hearts in each grave and push the dirt in. After this Florin will bow his head and speak mainly to himself, "What ever god or goddess these people serve or look to for protection, please take care of the souls of your departed followers. May they find some peace in the after life."
Florin after speaking whispers once more now to himself for sure but outloud, "Domi please understand my prayers for these people and since the prayers were not to you for them."
Xenia (HP 20/23) Tuesday April 27th, 2004 4:28:04 PM
Xenia watches as Tionel and Wynn disappear into the pool.
"But ... but ... but ... Framblation. At least he could have left us the wand."
With a shrug of her shoulders, the dark rogue helps Florin and Lang cart the bodies through the tunnel and outside. Stumbling along with one leg wrapped in her arms isn't always a lot of help, but she does what she can. Kneeling beside Florin, she uses one of the captured short swords to scrap away loose rock and dirt.
After a few sweaty frustrating moments, she sits back on her haunches. "I'll buy a couple shovels. Ok, Florin?"
She stands next to the paladin when he says a few words over the bodies. With a gloved hand, she reaches up to touch the spot where the symbol of Domi rests against her skin underneath her leathers. Her eyes are cast to the ground and her orange-red brows are knit together in a frown. The ceremony gives no surcease from the empty pall of senselessness. The symbol upon her breast imparts no relief. The dead remain dead and will never return to the one's they call their own.
Wynn(22/35HP) d20+2=16 d20+5=10 d20+3=10 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:38:33 PM
Unable to articulate the verbal component of the Light spell while under water, Wynn does his best to feel his way along the tunnel (DC=16, fail), but sustains some scrapes and contusions along the way. Upon arriving at the anchor, Wynn uses the anchor chain to pull himself up near the surface (Climb=10) and searches for any demarcations on the boat (Search=10).
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) Tuesday April 27th, 2004 11:14:51 PM
Lang will use his staff or one of the deads' weapons to help dig the hole to bury them.
To Syr Lang says, "I am not doing it for them, I am doing it for me. Even though I was not involved with killing them, it eases my heart and I hope someone will do the same for me when I die in battle."
"But it is messy work", Lang will say as he cleans himself off in the pool, "Angus, I'll have a swig of that wine."
Tionel d20+1=9 d20+1=11 d20+1=10 d20+1=8 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 1:59:48 AM
The skinny elf gives a pained grunt as his side scrapes along the rugged interior and blood goes through the water...but nevertheless goes on through. Swimming around, he spies the ship, and assures himself it's the swift. Tapping Wynn to wait (and be very careful!), Tionel swims back to the cave. (ow again) Surfacing, he taps each person when they're ready and heads back to the ship himself when all is over. (Yet another ouch) "Helllllooo!" he calls after surfacing. Climbing up the anchor, he looks about the ship for the old man, and slumps against the side of the ship in exhaustion and pain while waiting for the rest to come up.
Syr Wednesday April 28th, 2004 3:17:14 AM
The elf works quietly away digging the graves. He seems wrapped up in his own thoughts and occasionally makes comments to himself. When Lang speaks up, "Well I'm not doing it for them or me... I'm doing this for Florin. Doesn't he look in sad shape when his nice polished armor gets grimy and dirty?"
He stands respectfully at Florin's side as he prays but doesn't add anything to the brief speech.
Frumbulations (DM MikeK) d6=1 d6=4 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:06:38 AM
The quartet of Florin, Xenia, Syr, and Lang toil to bury the dead while Angus, uh, keeps watch in the company of the wine skin.
The group manages to pretty much destroy two of the captured short swords in the process, but eventually get the burial accomplished. Florin gives a few parting words while the rest watch in silence.
Tionel and Wynn assure themselves that the Swift is still waiting, and the druid goes back throught the tunnel to retrieve his mates. [Taking 5 hp damage in the process]
Using the Angus lit dagger trick, the return through the tunnel is a lot less abrasive for everyone else. One way or another, everyone heads for the surface. [Swim DC 10 to swim up. Climb DC 8 to use the boat chain.]
As the majority of the group surfaces, a familiar voice calls out. "Hai, me buckos and buckette," Minos yells. "Have ye returned to the land o' us breathin' folk, then?"
The old sailor pokes his head up and lowers a hand, helping Xenia and Syr out of the water. He slaps the rogue on the rump as she falls onboard. "Glad ta see ya made it back, girlie! Ya got way too many curves to be deprivin' old men o' their company. HAW HAR!"
"And now good Sirrah," he says to Syr, "If ye be about helpin' yer friends outta the wet, I'll be makin' the Swift ready to run! 'Sides, the padre there is too heavy fer me tired bones anyhow."
"And you, Dog Man!" he growls, pointing a wavering bony finger at the ranger as Lang surfaces. "Yer mutt here has been perpetratin' unspeakable acts upon me vessel!" Minos sighs dramatically. "An' where's a poor ol' aged sailor such as meself gonna find the coin to get this doggie doo outta me poor, poor ship? Ach! The injustice of it'all. Used up an' chucked out like yesterday's trash."
[Need Sunshine to begin posting now]
Angus Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:21:08 AM
Angus is relieved to be back ont he boat with Minos. "Half way home." he says to no one in particular.
Angus calls to Minos once he finds a clean spot to sit on the ship "Did you see any others come through recently, a few men and a woman, and maybe even a turtle?"
Angus then lets the sun dry him as the swim was hard work, and watching his team mates bury the dead was also.
Angus again looks over to Minos and says "So when is dinner served, I am ready to place my order....." The is definate twinkle in ANgus's eye.
Xenia (HP 20/23) d20+7=16 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 1:22:25 PM
Xenia enjoys the drifty dreamy underwater landscape as much on the way back as she did on the way in. It's nice to find out that something so scary is actually kind of nice. Maybe she'll learn to swim.
Climbing back up the anchor chain is a wonder. So different from the usual muscle burning climb up a rope. When she breaks the surface and breathes air once more, it's almost a disappointment.
She reaches up to accept the helping hand, realizing who the hand belongs to only after she feels the hand slap against her wet bottom.
"Wah!" She cocks back a fist to clock the old pervo-john a good one. The wind up is good. Target is right on for the guy's scragly old nose. The girl rogue's lips purse in a smile of satisfaction. Then, with a sigh of deflation, she waves the whole thing away instead.
"It's good to be back," she says, wrapping soggy arms around the old mariner's waist in a sincere hug of appreciation. Then she carefully picks her way to a place in the bow? the prow? -whatever- the front part of the boat, keeping a weather eye out for doggie doos.
[[ Climb 16 ]]
Florin Jadenth d20=9 d20=7 d20=8 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 7:14:26 PM
Florin makes his way back to the ship with the others as carefully as he can in his heavy armor, he has trouble swimming though and clanks into the rocks on the way back. He just barely makes it up the chain anchor though to the ship and gets help from who ever is willing to help him out of the water.
Once up Florin smiles to Minos, "Thanks for waiting friend and I'm sure you will get alittle more profit."
Florin can't help but wink at Xenia when Minos slaps her on the butt though either and smiles as he likes this old sailor.
(First two rolls were swim checks, last is a climb check)
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Wednesday April 28th, 2004 7:18:11 PM
Sunshine is over joyed when he sees Lang and quickly runs towards Lang when Lang makes it into the boat and jumps up abit to lick at the ranger's face. Sunshine's tail wages quickly as it greets Lang, when it sees the other people it's fur raises and grrrs lightly.
(OOC:Hope this is a good first post for Sunshine. I read his sheet but forgot so I do hope it was a he? Also I believe the only person Sunshine would of seen if Lang who owns him and Wynn right?)
Wynn Wednesday April 28th, 2004 7:50:30 PM
Wynn accepts a hand into the Swift and gives Sunshine a brief rub on the top of his head before finding a seat.
"Florin" the bard asks "I am pleased to honor Bralin's life pledge, but I know so little about it, or the mission of this fine company. What can you tell me?"
Lang (AC 18 & HP 36) d20+3=15 d20+3=12 Thursday April 29th, 2004 12:03:59 AM
Lang swims over to the chain and climbs his way up to the boat.
Once in the boat, Lang ignores the old man's comments as his attention is all on his dog Sunshine.
"I missed you boy, did you miss me? Yeah, I thought so."
Lang will cast Speak with Animals (2 minute duration) and talk to Sunshine. He will tell him of his adventure in the water and the fight with the temple guardian. Before the spell runs out he will tell Sunshine everyones name and will introduce him to the group.
Tionel d20+7=20 Thursday April 29th, 2004 3:02:54 AM
Tionel lays seated against the side of the deck, feeling weak, sore, and sleepy from all the day's work. Half-consciously, drifting to the realms of sleep, he nods to the old man, and tosses him a gold coin. "Back to the Floating City, and we'll be able to spend that on wine..." When the dog comes over, he exhibits no fear whatsoever and merely pats it comfortingly as it passes. (Animal Empathy check 20)
Homeward Bound (DM MikeK) Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:30:40 AM
Minos replies to Angus. "Seen anything? Tis a bleedin' marketplace out 'ere! First, a turtle boat blasts off widdout so much as a 'By your leave'. Then these two gentlemen (Wynn and Lang) show up in a sloop ... WIT THEIR DOG. Then, yer cheerful dwarf friend skeedadles in the sloop. An' 'ere we are."
"As fer dinner, best throw yer line over the side then." He grins at the mage, "but hep yerself to some o' the Swift's finest Mash. In fact, pass it around. Celebratory toast an all".
Expecting the shot, the sailor is taken aback by Xenia's hug. "Uh, yeah girlie. Jes keep outta the way while I'm workin'" he replies half-heartedly. Minos seems to have lost the initiative with the rogue.
But his hands are still quick. "Always lookin' fer profit, Padre," he answers Florin while simultaneously snatching Tionel's coin out of the air.
"Back home it is!" he cries. Swiftly and surely the old man prepares to make sail, and in no time, the Swift is beating back a course for Floating City.
"So tell me Padre," Minos calls from the tiller, "Didja git done whatever t'was ye came all this way to do?"
Xenia (HP20/23) Thursday April 29th, 2004 1:04:29 PM
Xenia unbinds her hair and it comes loose in a cascade of golden red curls. The whole of it is heavy with lake water, and, opening the waterproof sack, she removes a towel from her haversack and begins gently patting her locks dry. Once finished, she continues to her armor, drying clean the surface of the leather. She begins loosening the straps and catches, letting air in, allowing the armor to breath. Unlacing the jacket down the front, reveals a loose, comfortable cotton shirt underneath. Then Xenia sits back with her scarlet curls spread over her shoulders to finish drying in the sun.
While the boat makes it's way through the waters back toward The Big Float, Xenia spreads the towel across one of the bench seats. Then, reaching into her haversack again, she begins laying potions out for examination. On one side she lays one vial with a green stopper and two with blue stoppers. On the other side, she lays out four of her potions. One she knows will Cure Serious Wounds, one will Cure Light Wounds, another Neutralizes Poison, an the last Levitates the drinker.
She removes a glove and opens one of the two with blue stoppers. With her little finger, she dips a dab and tastes it on the tip of her tongue. Resealing the potion, she puts it carefully back in it's place.
Explaining what each of her own potions are, she asks the others. "What do you guys think? Any guess to what these new one's are?"
[[ BTW, if we're going to ID these potions by taste, smell, and color, I can't be the one to do it. I know what they are. ]]
Angus Thursday April 29th, 2004 4:23:23 PM
Angus is relaxing on the boat and tries a sip of Minos's mash. "That will help dry me off from the inside out." Angus will stay in any remaining sun and wind to aid the drying process.
Angus replies to Xenia. "We should use some of our newly won gold to have the potions and magic items properly identified."
Angus then takes an admireing look at Xenia. "Being soaking wet flatters the female form very nicely...."
Angus leans back and takes a new sip of mash and begins to fall asleep. "Too much physical work today, swimming, fighting, climbing, more fighting, and more swimming...." Angus says to himself.
Florin Jadenth Thursday April 29th, 2004 7:48:48 PM
Florin relaxes some and looks over his armor before pulling out first a comb from his grooming kit, the comb he hands to Xenia and smiles to her and then he pulls out a cloth to wipe down his armor slowly, glad the swim got rid of the sweat and dirt though.
Florin glances up when questions are posed to him and speaks to Minos first, "I believe we have gotten what we were sent for sir Minos but we'll have to wait and find out more when we reach the druids."
Florin now looks to Wynn and smiles, "I think alot of us are mainly working to help the Floating City. When I joined the group I helped with a wine tasteing contest being held at the Giggling Ghost and then from there helped with resueing Daphne a few other ghosts and a young girl. We got caught up in this by a sea monster was in the trash level flood lock and instead of killing it we made a deal with the druids."
Florin shrugs abit to himself, "Are main goal at the moment is to return the item to the druids and afterwards to check and make sure the orphanage is okay. I will be meeting Jonas later, by myself at a meeting I have offered." Florin looks to Syr, "I hope the decision on letting the remaining anvil hearts live did not cause harm to the orphanage Syr, if it has..." Florin voices trails off, saddened at the thought that his decision could cause deep problems but also still sure he picked the right choice.
As he looks back out at the sea he speaks to himself now as his thoughts stay on the decision he had made earlier this day, "I will slaughter all the anvil heart if they harmed the orphanage...not a person or thing will stand in my way, by Domi's hand I pledge that."
Xenia Thursday April 29th, 2004 9:30:25 PM
Xenia gives Angus a stern frown. But it's hard to hold for long, and she beams a smile at the sorcerer.
Taking the comb from Florin, she gives her hair several hundred strokes to keep away tangles. When she returns the comb to the paladin, she clasps his hand in both of hers in warm return of his kindness.
Finally, looking up from the potions on the towel, she adds to Wynn. "I came in just before the strawberry waffles."
"Or was it pancakes?"
Lang Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:20:17 PM
Lang is too busy hugging Sunshine and scratching behind his ears to notice or hear much else. He keeps his eyes averted as Xenia goes about drying off.
As the heat of the sun starts to warm him up and the adrenaline rush of the adventure wears off, Lang sighs and checks his longbow and the rest of his gear. He will dry off any wet items and lay them in the sun to dry off completely.
When this is done he will sit there holding Sunshine, enjoying the heat of the day and the ride on the boat.
OOC - How charismatic is Xenia in non-number terms?
Wynn d8+3=7 Thursday April 29th, 2004 11:36:53 PM
Listening intently and nodding his head at the points made by Florin, Wynn sums up his understanding of the party's duties, "I take it then, that protecting the orphanage and it's occupants would have been one of friend Bralin's responsibilities?" Wynn goes on to enquire, "and these Anvil Hearts, are there many, and are they of any great significance to the City?"
The wounded bard examines his injuries. Satisfied that they are not infected, he whispers quietly, and watches as they seal themselves. (CLW for 7 HP) The pink scars, will soon fade to silvery white, badges of this latest adventure.
The half-elf looks quizzically at Xenia when she starts talking about breakfast treats.
Xenia - OoC Friday April 30th, 2004 12:18:04 AM Charisma is kind of a hard quality to define. She's attractive enough. But her manner is often somewhat selfish and abrasive. You've had a bit of a taste of her personality. How charaismatic do you find it? I actually plan to play with this idea of Charisma in the near future. Explore it's different dimensions, and how they might manifest themselves through Xenia.
If, on another hand, you're asking, what she looks like, she looks like Rebecca Gayheart:
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Friday April 30th, 2004 1:05:37 AM
Sunshine takes all the petting and scratching as he sits near Lang. He off and on licks at Lang's hand before barking playfully at the other members of the group. It is quite clear that even knows Minos hasn't enjoyed Sunshine's company, that Sunshine has had fun on the ship.
Syr Friday April 30th, 2004 2:15:10 AM
Syr climbs out of the water and allows his body to air dry on the return trip. While not rippling, his muscles are pronounced. He sits near the bow casually enjoying the ride and looking back at Minos occasionally.
Hearing Florin's comments about the Anvil Hearts brings a frown to his face. "Me too, We didn't leave much longer after them and they were in pretty bad shape. I think we'll be safe for the short term but we must be vigilant in the future."
Elbowing Florin, "I still disagree with the decision to meet alone." To Wynn he adds, "The Hearts are a group of thugs and bullys. What they like in brains, they make up for in numbers! We certainly have our work cut out for us."
Turning to the almost dry rogue, "I think we need more information about the group before the meet, I want Florin prepared. I say we check on the orphanage first and then go about the city looking for more info?"
Tionel Friday April 30th, 2004 2:54:53 AM
Tionel slowly gets up and unclips the hard leather coat he'd been wearing. Then with a few pained grunts, he strips off his tunic, which is coated with dried blood and has a sickening sound aftereffect... After shucking his soaked boots and fine leggings, he looks down at himself in some consternation. Normally as thin as a stick, with that gaunt aristocratic look so many elves seem to possess, he now seems like a vine someone stepped on. The normally healthy pink color of most of his skin is purple with bruises or red with sores. His tossed raven hair is now tangled and matted down unbecomingly. Worst of all is all the holes he still has. With great care, he tends ot his own wounds for a while (taking 20 on that), patching himself up. Then he goes over to the free hammock and pulls himself in, tucking a blanket over himself. Tionel tips the fake pirate's hat (Which he's been wearing this whole adventure...hah!) over his brow and cuddles up on his bedroll, intent on sleep.
Pleasure Cruise (DM MikeK) Friday April 30th, 2004 9:28:50 AM
"Don't call me sir, Padre," Minos replies automatically to the paladin. "I work fer a livin'".
"Likely take a few hours ta git back," he announces. "The wind ya know." He looks around at the group and mumbles to himself. "Ach, they likely don't at that."
Most of the group settles in to attend to some personal grooming. The afternoon sun dries wet gear and skin quickly. A steady breeze fills faces as the Swift gently tacks homeward against softly lapping waves.
Tionel takes advantage with a good nap.
Xenia tastes the contents of one of the blue-stoppered potions. The taste, color, odor, and consistency of the liquid reminds her a lot of a Cure Light Wounds potion. It also gives her a feeling of ease and comfort. All in all, the rogue is pretty certain its a CLW.
Angus d20+7=18 Friday April 30th, 2004 1:17:11 PM
Angus will doze to pass the time on the journey back. Angus does remember Syr or was it Lang mentioning scouting the Anvil Hearts for Florin.
Angus turns to Syr "Did you want to do some scouting of the Anvil Hearts? I can turn one indivdual invisible for 40 minutes today and tommorrow is a whole new story. I certainly want a good night sleep before we attend to any Anvil Hearts."
Angus yawns "Just wanted to give those scouting the best chance of going undetected and finding out any problems in Florin's way."
Angus watches Florin clean his armor and asks. "I do not see how you oath to fight Jonas applies to us or in particular me. I do not want to see you hurt or worse and I do not think they will play by the same rules as you. I will honor you oath for you, but I will not see you harmed by treachery also. You know how I feel about the Anvil Heart Gang....."
Angus looks over to Sunshine "Hey boy do you want some mash....you look thirsty." Angus then gives Lang a laugh.
Angus then pulls out his silver flute and begins to play (perform 18)a merry tune. Taking a brief break from playing Angus asks Wynn " Any words to add to my melody?" and he continues to play.
Xenia (HP 20/23) Friday April 30th, 2004 3:34:06 PM
Xenia examines the single unknown potion. She looks at the color, sniffs it, and then gives it a taste. Then she tests it against the other three potions she has. Some are clearly different from both color and smell. She tastes each of her potions as well, though. Then, she makes a mental note to buy pen, ink, and paper when she gets back, and start writing this stuff down.
The dark rogue carefully replaces the potions in her haversack. Hers go into one pouch. The captured ones go into the other. As she works, she catches Syrdeth's eye. Her reply to his question is a silent nod.
It's getting kind of warm, so Xenia takes off the leather jacket expertly inlaid with plates of metal. Then lays it out open to let the sun at the inside. She rolls her short sleeves up to her shoulders and stands in the boat's front pointy part to catch the wind. Turning around and leaning back into the point, she catches Wynn's look of confusion.
"That's where I met these guys. Breakfast at the Giggling Ghost. Good breakfast. Went there for a dumb reason." And she smiles, white on dark.
Lang's dog barks, her tongue ... his tongue ... Lang's dog barks and seems pretty happy. Xenia smiles. She digs around in her haversack, though she knows what she wants isn't there. No trail rations. No left over pancakes. Nothing. More stuff for the shopping list. Shopping. Maybe she'd take Kyra with.
"Hey," she calls out to everyone else. "Anybody want a roast beef sandwich when we get back? I'm making."
Florin Jadenth Friday April 30th, 2004 5:23:27 PM
Florin smiles at his friends concern and comments to each, "I am not worried at the moment and have some tricks up my sleeve well armor sleeve."
Florin looks to Xenia as she strips off her jacket and then quickly away, thinking briefly of her hand in his before shaking his head, clearly clearing it of thoughts.
Florin glances to Angus and smiles, "Once we reach the Floating City and look into some things I will explain my plans. I want to make sure nothing has changed to cause my plans to change."
On a after thought Florin looks to Tionel but notices he's asleep so just comments to those listening, "The anvil heart were collecting some of the flowers was what we were told...the flowers are poisonous which we know. I'm wondering if they plan to use the flowers poisonous properties. It would be a big conicidence if one of the higher ups or someone becomes ill from poison and possibly die." Florin looks back out over the water, thinking over his plans and sighing gently as he wanders if they will work.
Wynn Brightsong d20+8=28 Friday April 30th, 2004 7:25:28 PM
Wynn nods at Xenia's explanation and returns her smile. The sound of Angus' melody stirs something in the bard's memory. In a wistful alto, he sings a song of lost love [Perform=28 Nat 20!].
She's like the swallow That flies so high. She's like the river That never runs dry. She's like the sunshine on the lea-shore, I love my love, and love is no more.
It's out of roses She made her bed. A stolen pillow For her head. She's like the sunshine on the lea-shore, I love my love, and love is no more.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Friday April 30th, 2004 11:09:36 PM
Sunshine stays leaning tnto his master as he watches the others yet as his pink tongue hangs out of his mouth, panting lightly.
Lang Madchel d20+3=5 Saturday May 1st, 2004 12:24:22 AM
Lang sits in the sun with his best friend and listens to the group as it discusses its next actions. Being new to the group, and more comfortable in the woods than in a group of people, Lang remains silent. He nods in agreement when everyone expresses their loyalty to Florin and the orphanage.
While Wynn and Angus perform, he absentmindedly reaches into his backpack and pulls out some dog rations and water and offers them to Sunshine. Lang smiles widely and shakes his head in amazement when Angus and Wynn finish their song.
When Florin mentions poison flowers and their possible uses, Lang thinks into his past for anything that might help. He is too tired to think of anything useful though (knowledge nature 5).
Syr Monday May 3rd, 2004 12:23:03 AM
Syr gives up his spot in the bow as Xenia moves forward with a purpose. Smiling fondly at Xenia, "I remember that day, who'd have thought a fan club would get you this?"
Thinking aloud, "Y'know? The anvil Hearts know where we stay but we have no idea where their headquarters is? How about discovery of that as our first priority?"
At the mention of plans he addresses the paladin, "Hey Flor, this might be a good time to stay at the house. With the orphange threatened, I don't think you should be quite so far away?"
His train of thought is broken as Angus and Wynn flow into a beautiful song. As it ends he sits there speechless and slightly saddened.
LOG ON