Back to the scene of the crime - Dm Ian Monday June 7th, 2004 6:20:43 PM
It takes Nonam a couple hours to do one last pass through the library. There is no reference to combinations of lycanthropy and one of the various undead conditions, but a few extremely dry texts on necromantic spell theory give Nonam an idea.
Working on the interactions of forces, creation of a stable undead condition and the like on paper, Nonam begins to understand through his impressive knowledge of Spellcraft that perhaps lichdom or vampirism could be combined with lycanthropy. It seems likely that such an experiment would require a few extra steps to provide a creature that was not ruled by the hungers of both supernatural heritages.
Then it occurs to Nonam, that if he can intuit the path, then a being like Morlas has probably had the expertise, time, resources and inclination to perform the needed research to make it work, if he were so inclined.
Kieran is very curious about this new game Jus mentions. As might be expected, he immediately wants to be shown how to play 'adventure', and whines for a while for Jus to come into the extradimensional cave to play with him, or at least tell him how to play.
After a good nights sleep, gathering the party, information, and purchased resources, the Storms seem ready to move on. Activating teleportation, the Storms are transported back into the Temple.
This time, there is no illusion to cover the battered state of the stone chamber. The floor, walls, and ceiling are lined with cracks, new and old. The rotting tapestries from the ceiling thirty feet up have been cut to a uniform ten foot length.
All around there are signs of vegetation have grown and been torn out. Shredded vines lay pushed back into corners, and piled by the recessed doors. However, there is a circle of untouched growth about two feet in diameter around the altar, which is now revealed as a stone oblong with badly faded carvings that are unrecognizable without very close inspection.
As soon as Jandar appears in the room, a soft silver radiance begins to emanate from the altar. This time everyone can see that the radiance seems to be radiating from inside the altar, and the light serves to outline some sort of hinge built into the stonework.
At the base of the staircase leading up to the clearing where the Storms fought Ash is the telltale signs of a fireball explosion. In the center of this are the burnt corpses of two dark elven males, and a pile of fine blue ash with a badly damaged lizardskin strip that might have once been a belt. The dark elves appear to be clothed and armored, but any weapons they might have carried are missing from the scene.
There is no one else in sight. There are no specific sounds audible from the nearby area.
(Spellcraft, religion, spot, knowledge: undead, and any other checks you would like, please.)
Jandar d20+20=32 d20+17=20 d20+20=25 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 2:37:41 AM
Jandar frowns as Nonam so easily discards the demise of Plateau City, but says nothing. He's a guest here, and remembers that things have been strained sometimes between the two cities.
He nods in agreement with Gareth's words and adds,"I think it would be wise if your city was prepared...just in case the dragons are bent on destroying all cities. Apparently, they are after Ailsidur as well, so it's only a matter of time before they turn their gaze towards the Float. If the city has the proper defenses in place, they could inflict heavy casualties and possibly deter an attack. If the city does nothing, and the dragons do attack...well, the Float will not be floating any longer."
When the party arrives, Jandar goes immediately back to the altar and says to Tericus,"This is where I had my vision of you. I was a bit confused by the two holy symbols, but now I understand."
He uses his religion knowledge to see what else he can make of the altar(dc32) and looks around the altar hoping to 'spot' something he missed earlier(dc20). He also uses any arcane knowledge that he might have that could be useful in deciding what's causing the glow around the altar.
(Sorry I haven't posted in a few days, but I'm on vacation this week and have been in and out for several days)
Gareth Tuesday June 8th, 2004 6:09:53 AM
The warrior nods to Jandar and makes a call to the Overlord to inform her of the attack underway on Plateau City and that they better begin preparing defenses.
Turning his attention to the task at hand he offers "Perhaps we can check for traps?". He keeps an eye out for interlopers and also looks for the house insignia of the drow to see if its the same as the one they've been talking to.
Tericus d20+14=28 d20+14=29 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 10:44:49 AM
(religion check of 28, spot check of 29) "I wonder if that means anything." Tericus tells Jandar as he moves to the spot that Jandar pointed to. "I better do this to be safe." Tericus says as he cats Detect Undead.
Nonam d20+30=38 d20+28=42 d20+17=30 d20+10=11 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 10:57:53 AM
Using his arcane sight to help with his investigation, Nonam pokes around to see what he can find out. He checks the clearing, altar, and ruins. He also checks the drow to see if they are wearing any symbols relating to clan or family that look familiar.
Also, if Nonam encounters any runes, he'll use his permanent abilities of comprehend languages and read magic to try to decipher them.
(spellcraft=38, knowledge arcana=42, knowledge history=30, knowledge religion=11 (leave that one to the priests))
Examinations - Dm Ian Tuesday June 8th, 2004 6:12:11 PM
Examining the altar closely, Jandar cannot match any of the barely visible symbolism to any of the current Gods. This must be a relic of a previous age, dedicated to one of the lesser known Cult gods. Such objects occasionally retain a bit of power, either a ward, a curse, protective magic, or something similar, but the invested power tends to weaken over time.
Looking over the altar more closely, the silver glow intensifies a bit. Jandar is able to trace the hinge lines, and finds what appears to be a button or catch that would open the altar.
Nonam finds the altar's silver radiance to be a weak abjuration effect. Most of the runes are unfamiliar, but two of the runes together on the side look like early derivations of High Draconic runes. One means 'Silver, or Benevolent', and the other means 'Protector of Life'. Taken together, they would usually refer to a silver wyrm taking up a traditional quest for his people.
Tericus does not detect any undead in the area, although the pile of ash looks somewhat typical for a destroyed vampire, and certainly the belt would match what one of the monks had been wearing at your last meeting here.
Searching through the fallen drow, Gareth has a hard time making out much in the way of insignia from the outer garments. Even their mithril shirts have been damaged beyond use, apparently from repeated blasts of fire. However, the destroyed mail links have somewhat protected their inner garments. One wears a small adamantite pendant inscribed with drow lettering. It is easily transcribed by the linguists of the group as 'Blademaster, House Teir'Dal'.
The second corpse lacks such identifiers, but under his mail is a thin circular leather sheath about six inches in diameter. Looking inside, Gareth finds a stunningly crafted one inch thick crystal disk, about six inches in diameter. Its edge is beautifully carved with arcane sigils. Somehow suspended in the crystal itself is the twisting form of a carved labyrinth.
Turning, Nonam immediately recognizes it by spellcraft lore and his arcane sight as a teleportation device. It should be able to be activated by tracing the design in the crystal.
Onrad d20+16=32 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 10:42:18 PM
Onrad knows instinctively that explorations of this type are beyond his ken for the most part; however, sometimes the obvious is overlooked.
He makes an extended search check of the area.[roll of 32.]
[OOC, just made an offer after some discussion with them and so things should be done soon in the Catecombs.]
Jandar Wednesday June 9th, 2004 1:34:23 AM
Jandar presses the button and attempts to open the altar with Tericus's help, hopefully, as the others look around.
Gareth Wednesday June 9th, 2004 6:29:27 AM
After his discoveries on the bodies and putting them under Nonam's scrutiny, the warrior returns his attention to the altar as Jandar attempts to open it. "Addinien, is there anything we should to with - or to - the bodies to give them a proper burial? Is there something here we could do that would be of significance to the drow we are negotiating with? I can't recall. Is Teir'Dal' the house we're have spoken to?".
Tericus Wednesday June 9th, 2004 11:09:59 AM
Tericus goes over and help Jandar with the temple, though he'll keep his spell active(detect undead remains active for minuets)
Nonam Wednesday June 9th, 2004 12:07:41 PM
Nonam points at the disk. "Keep that, but don't try to use it. Keep it out of sight too."
He doesn't offer any explanation as to what it does. He does mention that the runes might suggest something about a silver dragon.
OOC: posting sub Wednesday June 9th, 2004 5:24:29 PM
Can anyone sub for Addenein for a little while?
Jus d20+12=27 d20+6=7 Wednesday June 9th, 2004 11:59:33 PM
"Which doesn't mean much," Jus says to Nonam's comment about the Silver Dragon. "This could have been the Silver's lair at one time, but how that relates to Morlas is too obscure."
Jus looks around a bit, seeing if he can glean anything from the surroundings. [Spot = 27; search = 7 :(]
Seeing Jandar find something, Jus heads over to the altar to see what he's found.
The search continues - Dm Ian Thursday June 10th, 2004 3:17:24 AM
Pouring over the room together, Jus and Onrad begin to see an ominous pattern. They find what appear to be scuff marks on the walls above and around where the party had earlier been clustered, obviously made by the lich and his servants with spider climb or something similar. One was directly above the group, hidden by the ruined tapestries, one was just to the left of the staircase entrance, and one was almost directly over the altar.
Those angles would have offered a commanding field of fire down into the Storms.
As the button is depressed, the silver radiance around the altar recedes and fades. Opening the altar, Jandar and Tericus find the moldering final bits of what might have once been a large collection of parchment. Time and the jungle climate have clearly been unkind to whatever writings were hidden here, but several items remain.
A set of ten exquisitely crafted dragon figurines carved from some sort of shimmering silver ivory lay in the rotten remnants of pouches. Each is only three or four inches in length, between two and five inches in width, and one to two inches tall. The level of craftsmanship is unbelievable on each item. Each of the ten depicts a separate race of dragonkind. None are magical, but they are clearly very valuable.
The main item that catches Jandar's eye, however, is a wand laying amidst the carvings, apparenty fashioned from a single massive silver dragon horn. It is two feet long, adorned with flowing draconic script, and topped with a diamond carved in the shape of an outstretched claw. The last of the silver radiance clings about the wand, pulsing gently.
The scholars of the group easily translate the etched writings. Nonam notes that it radiates a powerful evocation aura.
"Blessings to allies, blade, axe, and pike, that would cast down the abominations to Life."
Gareth Thursday June 10th, 2004 6:07:29 AM
The warrior grumbles about the encounter with the liches. "It would appear we should be a bit more careful with these guys. Maybe next time we make them come to us somehow?". Looking over the items he muses "Perhaps we should take some time to determine what we have here? These figurines are incredible - even my untrained eye can see that. I suppose we could copy down the runes and take them back too. Might give the sages something useful to argue about back at the float.".
Tericus Thursday June 10th, 2004 10:39:34 AM
looking at the wand Jandar found, Tericus says "Im sure that wand enchants weapons to fight undead. Perhaps it even has some disrupting qualites."
Onrad d20+16=17 Thursday June 10th, 2004 11:49:34 AM
Onrad points out the scratch marks and what they may portend to the others. He then concentrates on finding a hidden or secret door where one thing is hidden, more can also be hidden.
Roll of 1...failed.
Jandar d20+20=37 d20+20=40 Thursday June 10th, 2004 6:10:46 PM
Jandar's eyes widen as he sees the mastepiece before him. He reverently reaches in and gently holds it up, examining it as closely as anything in his life. Having seen hordes of dragon treasures five or six times, and having quite an extensive horde of the Gold Dragons himself, he tries to recall if he has ever seen anything like this and what 'specific' funtion it might serve. (Knowledge Arcana 37, Knowledge religion 40(nat 20))
He nods at Tericus's comments, feeling the same, but looking for more.
A weapon to end undeath - Dm Ian Thursday June 10th, 2004 10:04:57 PM
Searching the remainder of the room, Onrad finds that the four valve doors leading onward seem to be stuck, jammed, or simply no longer functional. He is unable to find any secret doors.
Picking up the wand, the remaining silver radiance finally fades. As it does, Jandar has flash of inspiration. This is a wand of holy sword, with 49 charges remaining. It may or may not have other functions he is unaware of, and is certainly valuable beyond its impressive enchantment.
Gareth Friday June 11th, 2004 6:23:07 AM
"I suppose our bargaining clout with the drow just improved seeing how the Blacks got them such a weapon... So now what? Should we bury the fallen drow, return them to their family, or just leave?".
Tericus Friday June 11th, 2004 10:12:02 AM
"That is a powerful wand." Tericus tells Jandar. "Your divinations were certanly right."
Nonam Friday June 11th, 2004 11:39:44 AM
Always a bit disappointed that the big treasure didn't turn out to be a spellbook, Nonam points out, "I can identify it better when we've returned to the city. And Gareth is right, we can't walk into another ambush. We need to regain the momentum, and to do that, we need to figure out where these liches are holed up."
Onrad Friday June 11th, 2004 11:48:24 AM
"Might they be beyond these jammed doors?"
He points.
A delivery of two sorts - Dm Ian Friday June 11th, 2004 5:34:02 PM
There is a small, silvery bell-sound in the air, and a package with the Catacombs seal appears in Onrad's left hand. It is followed up by the voice of a small female of some sort, who says, "Always glad to be of service to the Storm Dragons. Be well, oh heroes!"
A few seconds later, the sound of footfalls coming down the staircase can be heard. In matching rhythm comes a familiar female voice, Solara.
"Its apparently past time this talk occurred. I've come to speak to the alleged hero who stole my child, and to serve as an apparently needed voice of reason in your fools crusade."
Gareth Saturday June 12th, 2004 5:12:10 PM
The warrior frowns as the black dragon comes into the room. "Nonam, any chance we can leave and not do his now? We better look out for her husband...". He also asks Max to ask Tericus to check her out to see if she's evil. If Nonam can't oblige he steps up and says with quite a bit of anger "Your child is only alive due to the fact that he might turn out to be of good heart. But I can assure you that if he ever turns evil I'll be sure to kill him myself. So tell us Solara, why should we not destroy you? I tire of talk from those trying to tell me why they aren't so bad and others are worse. I tire of seeing a group in the city undermine its leadership and for some reason be tolerated there. We know you scheme against us and I'm sure you knew about the attempt on the life of the Overlord by your peers. In fact, your group traded her to some liches and murdered her aid if I recall - the same types of creatures who want us to trust them now too. Why should we not end it here?".
Jandar Monday June 14th, 2004 2:46:57 AM
Jandar places a calming hand upon Gareth's shoulder and says softly,"Gareth, I know not what you have faced with this woman, and I know her to be less than good, but if your own child was held by someone other than yourself, you'd want that child back. She didn't come here attacking, nor even trying to steal him, she simply wants him back. Do what you wish with the dragon, but to murder her for coming to ask for her son back would be beneath you and this fine group."
He turns his head to regard Solara, and says with a stern look at her,"Now, if she were to attack or use magic against us, it would not hurt my feelings nor conscience, to see your sword split her in half."
Tericus Monday June 14th, 2004 12:12:34 PM
a bit surprised by Solara's entrance, Tericus tries to compose himself as best he can. after hearing her words, Tericus looks over at Jus questioning, wondering why the Storm Dragons took the baby dragon, and if it is indeed Solara's child. with his mind full of questions, Tericus decides to remain silent for the moment, hoping that some of them might be answered through talking with Solara.
Onrad d20+16=30 Monday June 14th, 2004 4:32:40 PM
Onrad looks at Tericus' questioning gaze at Jus and shrugs at him.
"I wasn't here for that either, T."
Onrad begins to circle behind Solara and searches the stairs behind her to see who else might be present. [check of 30]
He thinks to himself that we have WAY too many pieces of wood in the fire right now and need to get some resolved. He hopes we can resolve this one now.
His thought spin.
"Tericus, Jandar? Don't you have the ability to determine whether the baby is inherently evil or not? Oratai was able to determine that for Claudia's twins, although I don't know how she did it. We should end this once and for all if we can.
"If it is inherently evil, it should be killed. If not, then it is a child and should not be endangered by travelling with us but should be put in a safe place until it makes it comes of age and makes it's life choices like all with freedom of alignment."
A final debate - Dm Ian Monday June 14th, 2004 7:59:21 PM
As Solara steps off the staircase, Nonam immediately sees her to be an illusion. That fact suggests several other pieces of information.
(Nonam make attempt to make a DC 15 spellcraft check Highlight to display spoiler: {Only the highest level illusions can work without continual line of sight. As Solara is standing at the base of the stairs, she must either be using a powerful spell, be mimiced by someone who has studied her, or be in line with the staircase.})
Solara smiles nastily, looking something like a predatory cat, before starting to speak.
"I have no desire to argue philosophy or semantics with you, Gareth. We have had, and will continue to have disagreements regarding politics and the way the Floating City is run. This, on the other hand, is simple."
"You have too many enemies. The lich is already moving. You have angered my mate. You will give my child back to me, and the Blacks will leave you alone for a time. If not, we will wait until you are weak from another battle, and we will have our try at you."
When Onrad suggests killing the hatchling if its inherently evil, Solara barely contains herself. She spins on him, almost stepping forward, before restraining herself.
"Everyone shelters someone, -human-. Are you so sure you can defend all of your loved ones? Go ahead, try me! I'll set aside my revenge on Morlas long enough to see you suffer a fate worse than death!"
(Anyone who would like to make a sense motive check at DC 10. Highlight to display spoiler: {This seems to be a genuine emotional response.} If you would like to attempt a religion check against DC 15. Highlight to display spoiler: {Central to Woldian philosophy is the concept of the noble and ignoble races. Unless altered by magic or a truly life changing act, a member of the ignoble races is destinated for a life of evil.} A second religion check, DC 20 would reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {Chromatic dragons are considered by many to be an ignoble race of the wold.} Knowledge: dragonkind DC 15 would reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {Chromatic dragons are considered by many to be an ignoble race of the wold.})
Gareth d20=4 d20=18 d20=14 d20=7 d20=20 Monday June 14th, 2004 10:01:22 PM
Getting used to being decieved, the warrior attempts to see if he is being taken for yet another ride (Int DC 4 - ugh). He snarls at the woman but says in a level tone "The Black Dragons will be destroyed, Solara. You would do well to disassociate yourself with them. We will run you out of the city and kill any of you involved in the attempt on the Overlord - and that includes you. You will be exposed for your treachery, and if you feel the need to fight us, then so be it. I tell you what. Since we intend to kill you and your mate, I think the best place for your child is with us - besides the fact that it will allow us a little leverage to have him with us. We have no intention of killing your kin. Domi himself said it is possible for him to become good of heart, so we cannot kill that which is innocent and not evil. So he is safe. We will not use him as a bargaining chip except that you cannot guarantee that he will survive a fight between you and us - so I'd suggest you not support the Blacks attacking us when we are weakened. So tell us, why do you care if the liches move? What does it matter to you? What revenge do you seek on him and why should we trust you? It seems interesting that you seek revenge on one of our enemies - which suggests an alliance of some sort would be possible. Name the reason if you think it matters." (Sense Motive DC 18, Religion DC 14, Religion DC 7, Knowledge Dragonkind DC 20!!!).
Jus d20-1=16 d20=19 d20=11 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 1:44:07 AM
Jus is unable to contain himself. Although Jus can tell the motive behind her last anger is true [made Sense Motive], this woman's words don't sway him, they anger him. [failed Wisdom check]
"First thing," Jus starts, lifting one finger in the air, "we have no guarantee you are truly related to Keiran."
"Second," Jus ticks off a second finger, letting a bit of his ire show, "his mother left him for unknown reasons. The only time someone attempted to claim he and his portable lair for their own, there was little effort to keep him when we said no."
"Third, his father left him as well. It may have been to save his own hide, but why leave your son and take everything else you own."
"Fourth," Jus' cheeks are reddening to match his hair -- this lady had apparently pushed some buttons Jus didn't even know he had. "Claiming we, or I, stole Keiran is a low blow when he was abandoned by his family and has been cared for by us. When I let him out, he was obviously malnourished -- not strong signs of a 'loving' family. Although I have but a fraction of the treasure his family did, I immediately used it to nourish him."
[Failed second voluntary Wisdom check]
Jus, caught up in his anger, ends his tirade with a final acidic retort. "Cast aside your supplications, black heart; like you cast aside your son. Do your business, be the messenger and begone, before your love-of-convenience decides our actions for use.
OOC: Knowledge checks cannot be attempted untrained. Unless someone has Knowledge-Arcana, they can't roll for the dragonkind check
Onrad d20+16=18 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 11:38:21 AM
"Domi said that? Interesting...if it was indeed Domi that said it. It just doesn't match all we know about dragons. Dragons are inherently aligned. All half-dragons have been that way too. Perhaps we should check it's alignment now anyway and see if it's true ourselves. I really do not like the idea of keeping this thing."
Onrad keeps looking up at the exit outdoors searching for anyone else who might be there. [uh, nevermind...rolled an 18.]
Jandar d20+20=26 d20+20=29 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 12:09:11 PM
Jandar nods his affirmation to Onrad and says,"The Divination I cast said the little dragon could possibly turn out good, that it wasn't born evil as much as it could be raised to do evil. If the black dragons had a pet dragon to raise to do their bidding as it gets older and bigger, well...you can see the ramifications of that. I just didn't want to see Gareth kill the woman in cold blood."
Nonam d20+30=34 d20+10=22 d20+8=28 d20+10=27 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 12:52:33 PM
Nonam mutters underneath his breath about everyone seeming to know where they are all the time. At least it's only an illusion, now where is she...
"Solara, when we come back to the city, you and I will sit down and talk about this rationally. Until then, I think it's best we cut this conversation short. I don't mean to be rude, but someone is going to say something regrettable in a minute. Make that, something else regrettable. I will contact you the instant we return."
Using the maximized metamagic rod, Nonam casts a greater dispel magic on the illusion.
Then he turns around and looks at everyone else, "Let's try to get through the rest of the day without making another enemy."
Tericus d20+5=19 d20+14=28 d20+14=19 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 4:48:02 PM
(sense motive check of 19, religion checks of 28 and 19)
seeing the scene is getting extremely ugly, Tericus keeps his tongue in his mouth, though once Solara is gone he's going to have alot of questions for everyone
Effective punctuation - Dm Ian Tuesday June 15th, 2004 8:02:58 PM
Solara looks to be a fraction of a second from a burst of rage when Nonam ends the conversation with a single, well placed dispel magic.
(As per PHB, maximize cannot be used on dispel magic or its variants.)
The resultant silence is, as they say, deafening.
Gareth Tuesday June 15th, 2004 8:59:58 PM
"I'd say we try to find out why she wants revenge on the lich. Maybe we could get her help. But frankly, if she aligns herself with the Black Dragon's she's going down...". With a perplexed look he turns to the others. "So... what now? Where do we go? Who do we talk to? Seems we'd better get off dead center.".
Jandar d20+20=26 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 1:14:09 AM
Seeing the spell dissolved and everyone's temperature's slowly settling back down, Jandar continues to search the altar. He looks at the bottom and taps, seeing if there's a false bottom, just in case.
Nonam Wednesday June 16th, 2004 8:43:08 AM
"Gareth, head upstairs with me to post a guard. I don't want anything else coming down here and catching us off guard. Plus, the real Solara might be nearby."
The wizard heads upstairs.
Tericus Wednesday June 16th, 2004 1:41:26 PM
Tericus walks over to Jus and asks "I really dont belive her, but I have to ask. Did you and the rest kidnap that baby dragon?"
Gareth Wednesday June 16th, 2004 9:30:49 PM
The warrior follows Nonam upstairs to see what's on his mind.
Jus Wednesday June 16th, 2004 10:49:42 PM
Figuring Nonam wants to talk to Gareth about the dragon in private -- about himself and Keiran -- Jus tries to ignore them going upstairs and turns his attention to the altar too.
"We do have a baby black dragon," Jus answers Tericus, "but we didn't steal it."
Jus then tells how when the Storms attacked the Black Dragon, it dived deep into the waters and left. Shortly thereafter, the treasure of the Black Dragon was teleported away when the Storms touched it. The baby black's portable lair was left behind. Jus started talking to it, let it out once to hunt (only to see it severely malnourished), bought a Ring of Sustenance for Keiran (the name Jus gave it), and had Jandar ask his god about Keiran's alignment.
Conversation continues - Dm Ian Thursday June 17th, 2004 5:44:26 AM
As Nonam and Gareth ascend the staircase, they are met with an astonishing sight. The razed clearing is alive with hundreds of tiny birds, perhaps hummingbirds, coming in from all directions bearing burdens of some sort. It takes a few moments to realize that they are bringing seeds to this damaged place, and forcing them into the ground.
Back in the submerged room, Jandar does not find a concealed catch of any sort.
(My apologies for the late post... turned 31 yesterday and the festivities today ran a little longer than expected.)
Tericus Thursday June 17th, 2004 10:17:32 AM
"I remember fighting the dragon, but everything else is a blank." Tericus says to Jus. "Thank you for the explination. I think we should get ready to head back."
Jandar Thursday June 17th, 2004 11:43:20 AM
"Have we decided then, to go against the liches? If so, let's find them and get after it," Jandar says. His eyes have a rather excited look to them, as if anticipating a fight with the undead.
Nonam Thursday June 17th, 2004 5:05:45 PM
Nonam looks at all the birds, "Well, that's weird."
[HB, Ian. Looks like you're about 6 mos older than me.]
Onrad Thursday June 17th, 2004 5:26:12 PM
Repeating his words unheard when Solara appeared earlier, he says, "Uh, what about these four valve doors right here?"
He points toward the doors.
[See Ian's post on June 10th]
The doors - Dm Ian Thursday June 17th, 2004 7:47:26 PM
Examining the doors, Onrad finds that none have an obvious opening mechanism. Further, two do not ring hollowly when rapped. It would seem that they may have been blocked on the other side by a rockfall.
The birds remain busy at their work reseeding the clearing. It would stand to reason that the presence of a dragon nearby would startle them, as it does most animals, but they seem unconcerned.
Looking around the temple chamber, Jus is treated to a big telepathic yawn from Kieran, followed by a low murmur of the little hatchlings snores. If indeed the chromatic races all grow to evil naturally, there must be some additional detail to the possibility of Kieran growing into another outlook on the world. Thinking back, the original question asked within the commune was fairly open ended, not specifying the methods, magical or mundane that could be used to help Kieran become good.
Hanging back from the swirl of investigation, Addenein cannot help but look again at the scene suggested by the fall of the bodies, and the pile of ash. Drow making front assaults down a staircase isn't usually in the battle tactics of the race. However, the house jewelry worn by the first corpse does seem authentic. The warrior was apparently the House blademaster of House Teir'dal. Such individuals are often formidable warriors in their own right, usually serving as force commanders rather than strike force leaders.
Gareth Friday June 18th, 2004 7:08:05 AM
The warrior asks Max if he senses any beings of power or evil nearby. Before returning to Addinein and the fallen drow he asks the mage " I wonder if a druid - or perhaps the forest itself is healing the area or something? So what's on your mind, Nonam?".
Jus Friday June 18th, 2004 10:06:18 AM
"Didn't Gareth say Domi told us not to align with the Liches?", Jus asks to those left downstairs. "Seems like we have no choice in the matter."
Puzzling over the thought that Keiran could be good, Jus asks, "Is there anything preventing different Dragon colors from intermating? Perhaps the silver we saw was Keiran's sister."
Jus walks around the exterior, looking for secret or concealed doors while he waits for Nonam and Gareth to rejoin the party.
Tericus Friday June 18th, 2004 11:16:40 AM
Tericus goes over to Onrad and looks with him. "I have a spell that can get me past these doors, but I can do it only to myself."
Onrad Friday June 18th, 2004 12:06:49 PM
::shrugs::
"That would be risky Tericus, perhaps. We'll save that for later if we can't get through...if we want to. Doesn't seem anyone else wants to go further.
"I thought this was where the liches were. Was I wrong?"
Jandar d20+20=21 Friday June 18th, 2004 4:01:49 PM
"Onrad, I don't even know if those creatures were liches. I don't think they were, but I could be wrong. I think they are servants for the liches. And, we don't even know if there really are liches, or if it's just Morlas and his minions. We have seen no proof as of yet that there are liches," Jandar says.
"And I guess we could check these doors for traps, until Nonam and Gareth get back. Nonam could probably knock the doors, or Gareth could break them down, if we want to try them. If there are liches, then they probably are through one of these doors."
Jandar looks around on the ground for footprints, then laughs at himself as he remembers that he is no Ranger. (rolled nat 1 on Spot)
More searching - Dm Ian Friday June 18th, 2004 9:15:06 PM
Its obvious to Jandar that the room has been the site of a battle... lots of smudged bootprints, fireball scorches, etc. Additional details evade him.
Onrad remembers the Abbott having claimed to be from this location, but the only mention of Morlas' location of late has been in Fai'fasal's words in the plaza.
Max confirms Gareth's guess.
"The forest seems to be awakening, or at least turning its attention this way. Its not a local mind, but spread all over the place. The birds seem to all be listening to it."
Gareth Sunday June 20th, 2004 10:44:33 PM
Returning to the others after viewing the birds and conveying Max's response to Nonam, the warrior observes the doors that Onrad has been examining. "So Nonam, you gonna knock'em or do I need to do it th old fashioned way?"
Tericus Monday June 21st, 2004 11:26:12 AM
seeing that people are about to start smashing the doors, Tericus says "Remember, this is a temple. Destroying something in here can only hurt us."
Nonam Monday June 21st, 2004 4:29:22 PM
"Nothing's on my mind. I just thought we needed a lookout up here, and there's a real possibility that Solara is around. I don't feel like fighting a black dragon by myself today."
"And if the doors are blocked by rocks, then a knock won't help much. I have a few other spells that would probably work, but they'd be a bit of overkill."
Gareth (Posting again to move the story line along...) d20+8=27 Monday June 21st, 2004 6:44:02 PM
"Max isn't saying anything about an evil creature around - just the forest. Maybe a good thing to preserve your magic for later. I suppose I'll attempt to open them the old fashioned way...". The warrior looks over the doors and chooses the one that appears the easiest to open. He then begins to push, pull, pry, etc., and tries to open it up (Str DC 27!!).
Jus Monday June 21st, 2004 11:37:10 PM
"It would probably be best to tell the drow our decision. They can then help us find the lair," Jus volunteers. Jus draws his blue dagger and looks at the blade. He seems unusually eager to kill something -- and something in particular is in his mind right now.
More door goodness - Dm Ian Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 1:14:14 AM
Examining the doors a little closer, Max and Gareth are pretty sure two of the doors have been sealed by cave ins. They sound much different when knocked on.
Gareth Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 6:54:50 AM
So he doesn't choose those...
Nonam Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 12:02:34 PM
"Well?"
Onrad Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 1:11:22 PM
Onrad is totally confused about why we are here at this spot if this is not the liches lair.
[So is Jerry.}
He stands trying to cover for his confusion and watches the others staying alert.
Seeing Gareth work on the door, he tries to help. [Assist Gareth +2 to his rolls]
A long awaited conversation - Dm Ian d20+13=33 Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 7:02:09 PM
Gareth and Onrad search for a moment to find a suitable set of places to apply their strength to, but just as they lean in to force the northmost door, the valve begins to slide open silently.
The fifteen foot valve reveals a twenty foot wide hallway beyond, leading in forty feet to a circular chamber. The center of the chamber is dominated by a raised dias, upon with sits a silver font worked in the shape of a coiled silver serpent. The head is not visible from the vantage point of the Storms.
The remainder of the chamber is obscured by a thick mist that begins in a ring about ten feet radius around the altar, with the exception of the direct path to your position. Nonam detects the fog as a faint conjuration effect.
Kneeling at the base of the font facing away from you is a silver haired young elven woman. She is wearing a shimmering white robe of a severe, monastic cut, with a wand sheath at her right hip.
Without turning, she speaks, her voice carrying despite its soft, melodious quality.
"You are certainly persistent in your inquisitiveness,... a trait your race finds of value, I hear. Yet, I would know why you have returned to this holy place. The undead have fled to their underground lair. There is no more reason for combat here."
Religion DC 20 would reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {This font is suitable in contruction to be a altar piece or scrying focus. It certainly is comprised of a powerful symbol of draconic religion.}) Knowledge: dragonkind DC 15 would reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {The font is formed in the shape of an elder silver dragon, matching the symbolism found with the wand.}) Sense Motive DC 33 would reveal: Highlight to display spoiler: {The woman is frightened and tired, but determined.})
Gareth Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 10:57:59 PM
Seeing how he has perhaps intruded in a place not intended he offers "Our apologies for interrupting you. We are not looking for more battle. In fact, we would invite peace. But if you would be so kind perhaps you could help us?". He looks to Nonam and the clerics for some help - hopefully this is not another illusion...
Jus d20=19 Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 11:12:54 PM
Jus peers intently at the Silver hair before him. The Silver dragon they previously saw in child form seemed shy -- this one seems quite bold.
Looking for flaws and inconsistencies, Jus tries to determine if an illusion is once again in place [roll = 19 for check].
Jandar d20+20=23 d20=15 d20=13 d20+19=39 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 12:59:53 AM
Jandar smiles at the beauty of the shrine and listens quietly to the young lady, then Gareth. He concentrates on the draconic symbols and understands somewhat the intent. He notices the comparison of the wand he is holding to the sheath on the woman's hip, and says,"I found this up above. The reason we are back is that I sensed something special about this altar, and we wanted to find out what it was. Apparently, this is it. To whom is this a temple? I recognize the symbolism to worship a silver dragon, but I am unaware of any silver dragons of such power or status still alive."
He waits for an answer patiently, figuring it not as improtant as finding the liches, but still, the knowledge to be gained here...
Tericus d20+14=17 d20+5=22 d20+5=21 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 11:39:08 AM
once the silver haired lady reveals herself, Tericus says "We were told from divinations that we would find help in this temple that would help fight our enemies. We found a silver wand. We were just being sure that is what we were suppost to find. We're sorry for the intrusion."
Onrad d20+16=19 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 4:17:43 PM
Onrad, getting tired of all the games, tries to get to the point.
"So where is this underground lair of the lich? It is past time for some evil souls to go to the afterlife."
He looks sharply at the female to see if she shows any signs of being a dragon or anything revealing who she might be.
[never mind. Can't make a spot check to save my life right now. ::grin::]
Stretching back to the line of my fathers - Dm Ian Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 9:42:49 PM
The slim woman turns in her kneeling position to fact the group. Both Jus and Nonam are fairly sure this is no illusion. There is no aura of magical power Nonam can see, and no visual flaws Jus can detect. From what Jandar can see, the wand the lady carries is of heavy steel construction, with what appear to be dwarvish glyphs carved into it.
"My grandsire built this place towards the middle of his lifelong quest to eradicate undeath from this region. Even after he passed on, a few priests and paladins made pilgrimage here on a regular basis to consult the oracle."
"I must also say, we only are talking because of your stand against the forces of Marteus in the past. The balance of power in this region has been badly damaged by the arrival of your city, and the actions of Morlas of late. It is not my place to dictate politics, but until events settle down, I will not be having much contact with humans, much less the unsavory creatures roaming the jungle and the nearby mountains."
Turning to address Gareth, she replies, "I can only offer two things, information and not blocking your access to the oracle here."
Addressing Tericus, she states, "I am not such what agency told you to seek here, so I cannot say what you were intended to find. The wand, however, was left with an enchantment to aid those who intend to take up the fight to destroy the undead. As I cannot myself use the wand, or stand against the undead in this region, I have no objection to your using the wand if that is indeed your intent."
Finally, she smiles at Onrad, and seems to weigh him for a few moments before speaking.
"Since that is your intent, I will tell you."
"Under the nearby mountains on the west side of the jungle, there is a dark elven city. Long has it been a corruption cut off from most other places, with agents trading weaponry, magic and support with the vile denizens of the Scab."
"Up until a few years ago, the wyrm Lathiese made his lair within that city, until an upheaval of his allies drove him out into this jungle. My pattern for withdrawl is likely the only thing that saved me from his notice."
"It wasn't until those dark elves were driven out onto the surface of the mountains, and Lathiese began to haunt the jungle that the undead began being active in this area. I have asked the oracle of this, and was told that the source of the undeath sourge is hidden from scrying, but that it reaches forth with a band of followers called the Chosen. Some additional research within your own city on recent events has lead me to believe that this Chosen are in fact the Chosen of Morlas, which in turn means that Morlas has taken up residence within the dark elven city."
She then looks back into the font for a moment, and sighs.
"I will answer your questions, and you may each ask the oracle a single query, but I will be leaving before you do so. I warn you, it is a weapon of truth more than anything else... beware how it may cut."
Nonam Thursday June 24th, 2004 12:41:28 PM
"The oracle?"
Onrad Thursday June 24th, 2004 12:57:49 PM
Onrad nods, trying to keep a straight face. "Yes the Oracle Nonam."
"That thing over there. You ask it questions and it tells you an answer. I can recommend some great books on the subject if you need one."
He holds his straight face for a minute about to break out in laughter.
Then he remembers the woman.
"Sorry. Lots of tension lately. Had to let loose.
"Thanks for your help."
He bows.
Not knowing what to ask her, he waits for now.
Then another thought occurs.
"I can't believe my first major thing with you guys after returning is to go "Below" again. That last trip was...beyond description.
"And didn't we run into a dragon last time we went drow city hunting?"
An introduction of sorts - Dm Ian Thursday June 24th, 2004 9:43:43 PM
The silver-haired 'elf' stands and indicates the font behind her.
"This is a repository of my grandsires wisdom and experience. I call it an Oracle for lack of a better word. It also houses his personality", she says with a mysterious smile.
Gareth Thursday June 24th, 2004 10:11:30 PM
The warrior smiles and bows to the woman. "We are the Storm Dragons, M'lady. My name is Gareth. I speak most of the time for the group - but am an equal among great allies. We are charged to care for the city - which was transported here not by our choice but by some power unknown to us - and its peoples. I wonder if you might know - or shed some light on - any plans that the drow, Latheise, or Morlas lay? And also, what can you suggest that will help us restore stability to the region? I am afraid we cannot change the location of the city as it is beyond our power. But we are willing to help - and we most CERTAINLY are not your enemy in any way. We ask for your help but offer ours in return. And we also have the ability to garner resources from the city if they are needed.".
Jandar Friday June 25th, 2004 2:14:41 AM
Jandar waits for the others to talk, watching the oracle's and the girls responses, so he can gauge the best question, and the way to word it.
Onrad Friday June 25th, 2004 9:54:43 AM
As no one has yet, he steps forward into the room to examine the font, grin at the girl, and look around a bit.
"So do you know a route to this UnderWold City of Evil? Any advice for this unpleasant task?"
Tericus Friday June 25th, 2004 10:23:02 AM
seeing that everyone is a bit nervous about asking a question, Tericus goes forward and says "I would like to know the base of operations of the group that serves Morlas, The Chosen."
Spiderwebs - Dm Ian Friday June 25th, 2004 6:52:43 PM
The lady stands, folding her arms over her simple robe, looking over Gareth and Onrad. Shes still not quite relaxed, but she seems to be less rigid than before.
"I've heard of the Storms. Your past holds a number of admirable tales, but I do not understand what you have been about of late. Perhaps thats a better topic for later, however."
Answering Onrad, she says, "I'm not so sure of my might that I have gone searching for the drow city. However, it seems obvious that the other power groups in the region are also the enemies of the liches."
She begins to tick points off on her fingers as she speaks, "Lathiese hates them from evicting him from his lair. Morlas' Chosen have lost a few vampires to the black here in the jungle recently. The exiled dark elves keep mounting raids down into the depths under the mountains from their makeshift camp. Even the jungle hates the liches, even though its not entirely reasonable most of the time."
Finishing her summation, she continues, saying, "I'd imagine any of these groups would be willing to show you the road."
She then steps aside as Tericus moves to the font and asks his question. Gazing down into the coiled serpent motif, Tericus sees a hint of movement, and then there is a silver sparkle that rises out of the water and scatters about the room. The mists shrouding the walls and ceiling go dark, receeding to reveal a dismal abyss stretching down and up out of sight. It is as if you are standing in mid air.
Built into the sides of this tear in the earth are fantastic fortresses, linked by delicate bridges carved into the shapes of interlocked massive humanoids. Even as you watch, the nearby bridge strains under the weight of a lizard drawn caravan, the figures groaning and lamenting in deep, hopeless voices.
Drow stand on the walls of each of the nearby seven fortresses, draw caravans along the bridges and cutback roads built into the abyss walls. Passing among them are reptile, frog, and spider-mounted nobles, as well as slaves from every ignoble race of the Wold.
The nearest fortress is a horrible sight. No bridge currently leads to it. The front walls are lined with pikes hammered into the stone, each bearing a rotting form of a dark elf. These bodies twitch and stir, following the closest to the fortress with loaded hand crossbows. The sigil upon the gate matches the signs that you saw earlier on Fai'fasal's clothing.
This is House Yntyrin.
As the vision begins to slowly fade, there is movement on the walls, as guards greet a commander. The newcomer dark elf is richly appointed, wearing white tiger furs over a mithril shirt. Yet, despite the change in race, the facial features is clearly that of the Abbott who taunted you here not so long ago.
Then the vision fades, and the mists return to their former white-silver-shade.
As it does so, Tericus hears a voice within his head. (Tericus may highlight: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Morlas has surrounded himself with a circle of liches beholden to him. This circle has created vampires in their own images as servants. What cleric of Alemi could let this abomination to life itself continue?".})
Gareth Friday June 25th, 2004 8:24:46 PM
Once the images fade the warrior stands in an unthreatening manner and addresses the elven woman once again. "It is clear we must engage the liches. I think they cause more of a threat than any other. I hope you will visit us again. You are welcome at our manor home any time in the Floating City. Would you do me the honour of knowing your name?".
Nonam Friday June 25th, 2004 9:52:04 PM
Nonam watches Tericus at the oracle and ponders what he might ask, "I'll go last."
Onrad Monday June 28th, 2004 11:57:40 AM
Onrad explores the room a bit while waiting on others to go first.
He feels a bit better about things as he becomes less confused and sees the group heading in a single direction again.
"Yep, there are definitely some power brokers in this area. Problem is, we're the only ones that are good. All the others are evil. That forces us to perhaps work with some to eliminate others while still knowing that eventually they all have to go."
Tericus Monday June 28th, 2004 12:23:49 PM
a bit blown away by what he say, Tericus takes a moment to compose himself. then, he turns to the others and says "I know what and where the Chosen were. They are a group of liches and vampires based in the drow city. The house they are staying in has the same mark upon it that Fai'fasal was wearing. One more thing, the Abbot we dealt with earlier was there. I saw him change his form into a drow." he pauses for a moment then says "Im not sure what is going on. Are the liche and drow allied?"
A question from the peanut gallery - Dm Ian Monday June 28th, 2004 5:40:32 PM
The lady-dragon considers Gareth and replies, "My name is Illimria. I appreciate your invitation, and will considering taking you up on it in better times."
She then turns to Onrad and says, "The liches have deceived the drow, I believe, and have taken to ruling them from within. Why else would the liches be walking in positions of power within a drow house and wearing drow faces?"
Jus hears a quiet, fearful query in his head from Kieran.
"Why did my daddy leave me?"
Apparently the question is enough to trigger the Oracle.
The mists darken again, this time showing a scene at night in the mountains. Lathiese is pulling himself up out of a cave tunnel, battered and bloody, into a lightly forested plateau clearing. It only takes a few moments for several of the Storms to realize that the stars are in the wrong places. This is a vision of the past. Lathiese slumps for a moment, gathering his strength amidst a small stand of ash trees, clearly exhausted. Seeing such a powerful beast in this state speaks volumes about some recent struggle. Then, stepping into the clearing comes Fai'fasal. The drow blademaster is livid, barely containing his rage.
"We will strike back at dawn! I have rounded up the warriors who were out on patrol, and summoned the House mages from their studies to prevent their capture or assassination. We cannot allow Matron Yntyrin and my sisters to remain in their grasp!"
Lathiese hisses and rears, his massive wings blotting out the starry sky, and his bloody, skull-shaped face shining in the soft moonlight.
"We will do no such thing. The liches will suffer and fall in time, but your Matron is already dead, and your sisters slaughtered or suborned."
Fai'fasal reels visibly, but Lathiese plows on unmercifully.
"No, there will be time for causing the liches to suffer, and time for taking back what is ours, but you only saw the champions of Morlas. You killed one of them, as I did, in the opening skirmish, yet they returned repaired and reformed for the final battle of the siege."
"No. We will carve new lairs, lay new traps. We will find where these liches keep their phylacteries, and then, then they will know fear and pain. Everything else can wait! Nothing else matters, for this goal."
With this, the mighty black dragon pumps his wings and ascends into the sky. The perspective of the vision shifts as the wyrm wings out over the mountains and soars out over the nearby night-shrouded jungle.
Fai'fasal stands alone in the clearing as the vision fades, his hand clenching the pommel of his sheathed weapon. He is the very image of a man adrift in a strange place without guidance.
Then the vision fades, and the mists return to their former white-silver-shade. Who knows what the Oracle says to Kieran, but the hatchling begins to bawl and sniffle telepathically in Jus' head.
(sorry about the early post... otherwise I would have had to miss today. - Ian)
Jus Monday June 28th, 2004 11:02:24 PM
About to reply to Kieran, Jus drops to silence as the Oracle unexpectedly replies instead. Listening and watching quietly, Jus isn't exactly sure how this is an answer.
I'm sorry you heard the earlier exchange, Jus whispers in thoughts to Kieran. Jus' words are still tinged with the anger he had to the supposed-mother of Kieran, but his anger has been heavily tempered by he thinks Kieran must now be feeling.
Let me know if you have more questions; I'll try to answer,, Jus thinks. Shrugging, Jus expects this will do little to ease the dragons mind. And I'll do all I can to help you, too, he sincerely adds.
"Kieran's question answered much of what I was to ask. The only question I have left is as much to your ladyship," Jus says with a slight bow to the silver, "as to the Oracle."
"Kieran has much good in him. Good I've felt when I first heard him [from the wishes in my own heart or Kieran himself]. Domi has also acknowledged this, unless Jandar's query could have been falsely answered."
Hesitantly, unsure he wants to know the answer, Jus is about to ask what he wants an answer for.
Then he looks upon the Silver again. Her fair smile reminds him of others he's seen before: The Overlords, Daphne's, even Flower, whom he met so long ago.
The question he was about to ask now seems too trite, too personal to waste on the Oracle.
Changing his mind, Jus asks what is truly more important. "What is the plot against the Overlord."
Before any answer is given, Jus thinks to Kieran, Thus is the way of the hero. Sometimes we have to temporarily set aside what we truly want to help others... like I will help you. For now, several plots are brewing that may decide the fate of your father, my city, and our land.
Gareth Tuesday June 29th, 2004 5:41:29 AM
The warrior appears very appreciative for the information. "I also have a question: Where are the liches' phylactories? Can we bypass all the undead and get there?".
Nonam Tuesday June 29th, 2004 12:06:21 PM
Nonam nods at Gareth, "That's two questions, but the first is a good one for the oracle. Of course, if I were them, I'd spread them out. We should find the leader's phylactery. Undo Morlas and the rest will crumble."
A concealed weapon - Dm Ian Tuesday June 29th, 2004 6:26:55 PM
The lady turns to Jus, and steps away from him, her eyes narrowed. She speaks again, saying, "You speak as if you know the source of that vision. Who is this Kieran, and why is he concealed nearby?"
Her unspoken question hangs in the air between the lady and Jus. And how does this Kieran relate to Lathiese?
When Jus asks his question, the mists shimmer and shake a bit around him, and a dry, male voice sounds in the air around the Storms, echoing and a little loud for comfort.
"More specific."
However, the mists still rapidly respond when Gareth begins speaking. They darken and change yet again, this time tinged with gouts of a reddish glow. The scene revealed around the group is that of a burning village. The doorframes and construction seem to be of human styling, and in the near, predawn distance you can barely see the sea, silver-blue in the gathering light. Knowledge: geography, DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {"This looks to be the eastern coast of New Elenia, or perhaps northward on that coast in the Red Hills".})
However, the village is aflame, with killed and reanimated humans scattered all about. Kneeling in the burning thatch-roofed building nearby is a massive, reddish skinned, fanged humanoid bearing a huge scimitar formed of beated bronze. The thing looks on as an angular form of pure darkness stalks to the sole survivor laying nearby, a panting middle aged human male in burnt and shredded traveller's wools. Knowledge: arcana DC 20, or planes, DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {"The red-skinned giantish creature is an efreet.})
The form of darkness stops its stalking approach at the feet of the overwhelmed man, and begins to speak. Even its voice is obscured, sounding as if the person or being within the darkness was shouting from a distance over a great fire.
"You have lead me a merry chase, spellthief, but I have cornered you, I have mastered you, and now I claim you. Your reticience is pointless, and the rewards for faithful service is great. You shall become one of my Chosen, a lich undying. You will serve as you have lived, as a thief of sorcery and secrets, and I will insure you never die, for I will keep your phylactery, as I do with all my Chosen. Even should you fail, you will be reformed at my side, to be sent out again. The change will also make you stronger, faster, more resilient."
At this the man on the ground goes limp, and simply gazes up at the sky. As he does so, three beings step out of the smoke and flame overwhelming the village to form a rough circle about the fallen man. All are shrouded in an aura of fear that even dims the flame nearby as they pass.
One is a foul combination of swine and corpse, seven feet tall, and covered with muck and bristled hair. It bears an assortment of blades and an axe, with a set of heavy steel cesti strapped to its immense paws. The second is the rotting tiger form of the Abbott, robed in white tiger fur clasped at waist and wrist with mithril adornments. Its reversed hands remind you of the research Nonam did into the combination of a rakshasa and a lich in the libraries of the Float. The third is nothing but the outline of a curvaceous woman. However, her form is limned in darkness and the very ground she stands on is beginning to frost and darken.
The man on the ground manages to croak out, "Live forever,... steal forever,... one condition. I still rule my guild. They are mine, not yours."
The dark form that must be Morlas laughs, grinding and low, and extends a claw of darkness downward to the man, as the image begins to fade in the mist. Soon enough, the mist has reverted once again to silver-white.
Then, Gareth hears a voice in his head. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Morlas has hidden the phylacteries within a place sight cannot go, where his minions or his enemies cannot find. Just as he cannot trust either, can you extend trust to wizards who do not believe in evil, or sorcerers who lie and harbor evil for their own purposes? Can you trust they are immune to the temptations Morlas could bring?.})
Gareth Tuesday June 29th, 2004 7:01:21 PM
The warrior shares the words of the Oracle with the others. "Well at least we know they are in the same place. Perhaps, Nonam, you should ask HOW we can find the location of the phylactories? We shouldn't even bother showing up for the battle if they simply reform and we must fight them agsin. I wonder if any of them ar the same ones we fought in the Woldsblood plane?".
Jandar d20=18 d20+20=22 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 12:27:32 AM
Jandar rubs his chin as he takes in the scene. He recognizes both the location and the creature. He says,"An efreet. We fought one of those many years back. I can't recall the name at the moment, but it will come back to me. It was across the great Desert, and I doubt it's the same one......Zongrief was the name!
Hmmm. I'll have to think carefully before I ask my question. Oh, did I say that out loud. Sorry, sometimes I talk to myself out loud."
Onrad Wednesday June 30th, 2004 8:30:37 AM
"This is still very confusing to me. Do you guys always have to deal with such riddles? It must be frustrating indeed."
He pulls out a portion of trail rations and begins to munch.
Tericus Wednesday June 30th, 2004 11:13:31 AM
Tericus begins to pace back and forth. "Hurry up and ask you questions. If we cant get to the phylactories then we need to banish the liches as soon as possible." he says in irritation. "We need to leave soon."
Alternate tactics - Dm Ian Wednesday June 30th, 2004 5:26:45 PM
The silver-lady listens to the interplay of the group, sitll clearly awaiting a response from Jus. When Tericus speaks, however, she smiles.
"An interesting point, priest of Alemi. Perhaps what you cannot kill you can imprison, or threaten with imprisonment."
Jus Thursday July 1st, 2004 1:06:38 AM
OOC: Curious that his last thoughts seem to have vanished into the ether, Jus attempts to relive his last minute. [Forgot to submit? somehow lost last post]
Of course, Jus continues his thoughts to Kieran, we do get to uphold laws and get great rewards by putting these deeds first. Jus says these, hoping to capitalize on Kieran's possible lawfulness and love of money. Jus still doesn't understand how Kieran can be good, but isn't about to give up hope.
Out loud, Jus turns his words to the Oracle. "The one we thought was an abbott of this temple told us our town was to be attacked from the inside, that someone near the Overlord was planning her fall. Who are those in the plan the Abbott referenced?"
A fourth answer - Dm Ian Thursday July 1st, 2004 6:06:25 PM
Kieran replies to Jus, "Great rewards?", telepathically.
The mists immediately reply to Jus' shortened query. This time they shift to show a sunny day, on the open top of a tower in the Floating City. Delores Solara is talking to her 'brother', Byron.
"They make this huge gesture of going to the Shadowlands to rescue her, but they never ask the important questions, like, who was going to take her place? They are insufferable, strutting about, insisting on glory and their so-called heroism", she says.
Byron nods, looking out over the city, and replies, "Our city, our people must have trade and protection. We will not survive with Alicia's focus on placing guards over fragile agriculture. Our city must have strong allies to replace those that we lost in the movement of the city. The Storms won't do this... they will be too busy running around attending to the Overlord."
Delores smiles, and agrees.
"I have a contact within the dark elves. They are not humans, but they are predictable in their own way. I cannot help but feel they will make more reasonable allies than a mad jungle-spirit, or the denizens of the Scab beyond. That is what I am worried the most about... the beasts and outcasts of the Scab turning their eye towards the Float. I'm sure many would love to empty this city and claim it as a lair."
Byron taps his chin for a moment, and then brightens, saying, "Your intelligence about Morlas having a power-base in this area was right... he already attacked the Overlord once, and does not seem the type to leave matters as they are. Do you think we can trust that he will overextend himself?"
Delores replies, "I doubt it. We clearly cannot replace the Overlord, as dangerous as she is to all of us. A fight with the Storms now will only distract us from the real struggles ahead to save the city. I think the best we can do is have our candidate for Overlord ready should Alicia fall to Morlas."
The mists begins to recede and return to their silver-white hue, but one more of Byron's comment is audible before the scene fades completely.
"I am uncomfortable that we must place so much hope in the lichkiller sword... but you are right. It must go to the drow Fai'fasal, who has the knowledge, skill, and inclination to make the most of it. I will take care of the delivery."
Follow up - Dm Ian Thursday July 1st, 2004 6:14:13 PM
Jus hears a voice in his head as the mists return to their original placement and hue.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Are you so sure of your virtue? The tests have been laid out before you, like traps, and oh you have so far to fall. The divination to Gargul is a perfect example. Will you use cursed magic to force a transformation of beliefs upon Kieran? Just as good may be brought to evil, so could you force evil to good, but would you be a decent man for doing so, for changing a child so?"}
Nonam Friday July 2nd, 2004 12:26:07 AM
Nonam thinks that Gareth's idea about a question might be the proper course, but he's not quite ready to ask that one yet. He has several other questions rattling about his head, but he's not quite sure what to ask. He looks about to see who has yet to ask something and keeps his own mouth shut for the moment.
Onrad Friday July 2nd, 2004 12:49:49 AM
Onrad moves forward with a bit of impatience and asks,"Is there an entrance to the drow city, and more specifically the liches lair that is less travelled? And where is the drow city anyway?"
Jus Friday July 2nd, 2004 9:25:12 AM
Jus watches and listens, impressed that -- by appearances -- it seems the Black Bladders goal is to save he city, not just gain power.
As to the Oracle's last, silent words to Jus, Jus doesn't know how to react, how to accept what he hears.
Quietly, Jus asks, "Jandar, who answered your divination?"
Falling Away - Dm Ian Monday July 5th, 2004 6:27:19 PM
As Onrad speaks, the mists shift yet again.
Blue sky is revealed, all around, and the point of view is falling. Vertigo accompanies the plunging motion, especially as the viewpoint rotates downward to reveal a mountainous area coming up quickly. There is enough time to identify the mountains dividing the jungle you are in now from the Scab.
As the falling viewpoint gets closer to the ground, a curious fortification is revealed. It is a narrow band of improvised buildings built around trees and what appear to be conjured walls of stone, with other vegetation and materials piled to form the walls of the buildings inside the ring. The inside and outside of the fortification, however, are earthen berms apparently designed to guard from attacks from both directions.
Inside the fortified ring is a massive cave opening in a jutting outcropping of rocks, the very same one an earlier vision showed Lathiese emerging from.
The falling viewpoint accelerates, and dives into the cave opening, spinning and dodging tunnel walls with dizzying precision as it continues downwards.
Shortly, the viewpoint slows, and enters a large, widened tunnel leading steadily downwards. A series of glyphs is repeated on the wall of the tunnel every so far. It takes a few passes, but they appear to be a series of drow House glyphs, with Teir'Dal and Yntyrin among them.
The point of view passes through another maze of passages quickly, and emerges into a new tunnel amidst what appears to be a drow guard fortification. At this point the vision is abruptly cut off, the mists blinking back to silver-white in a flash that speaks of some sort of magical defense.
There is a pause, and the voice speaks in Onrads head as well.
Highlight to display spoiler: {You of all the Storms should have considered your story, you legend left behind, your legacy of your life. A legacy is a powerful thing, composed of the forces and truths that made you what you are. Yet, heroes are not the only ones who wish to be remembered, or revered. Vanity and legacy drive all sorts, even liches.}
Gareth Tuesday July 6th, 2004 8:24:19 AM
The warrior stands silent and takes in all the information. "Who else has not asked a question? Sounds like the Blacks are thinking they are better than us at all this. They seem to have a noble cause but are willing to do evil to make it happen. Once Alicia is overthrown I'm sure their 'candidate' will attempt to name the Blacks keepers of the city - and depose us. Nice... But Solara seems pretty correct in her dealings with the drow. We do form a bridge with them the Blacks do not have (blue knives). Looks to me that we should figure out a way to entrap the liches until we can find thier phylactories - then kill them. We must gain the respect of the drow houses, avoid being attacked by the Blacks while weakened, find out more details about the Blacks' treachery so we can clean them out of the Float, discover the way to teleport into the Blacks castle (bypassing their defenses), take out Lathiese - which we can't do until Gargul says so, figure out why the liches tried to take out Alicia in the first place, and figure out how the Blacks played into that,...". The warrior trails off. "Yes, Onrad, it has become more and more like this since you were last with us. It is withering...".
Nonam Tuesday July 6th, 2004 11:42:26 AM
Nonam eyes the oracle, "I still haven't asked my question, but I'm unsure what to ask. I'm tempted to ask something unrelated to our current quest, but I'm open to suggestions."
On the nature of seiges - Dm Ian Tuesday July 6th, 2004 6:29:40 PM
Illimria listens to Gareth with a raised eyebrow, and replies, "Protracted struggles are never easy, but I would offer they are they defining mark of a hero. It is an easy sort of courage to only ever do battle with your lessers. It is harder and more noble to chose struggles with the strong, the enduring, the fortified."
"If you seek a life of subtlety, choosing your moment, openly working for your people and your city is not the road you should be walking. Yet, those who walk the shadows rarely have many allies to call upon, and sometimes are never known for their works."
She hesitates then, for a moment, glancing at Jus before continuing.
"My grandsire always said that they key to making war on the undead is to remember what they were before they distilled darkness into their own souls. They were men and women, driven enough to immortality or some cause, and their change has not changed this. If anything, long years makes these mortal qualities stronger, to the point of obsession and mania."
"I suppose Morlas is a good example. He is a builder gone wrong. He designs and plots, but only to fit his hungers and his ego. He has not lived these hundreds of years by extending himself into weak positions, but by being a general who survives regardless of whether the current war is won or lost. This is as much his strength as his weakness. Generals have enemies, and are engaged in larger struggles than just what you may see."
With this she shrugs, and turns to Nonam.
"You may certainly withhold your question and return at a later time. Every being of good intent who can reach this place may offer one question without performing a quest for the Oracle. You may also ask whatever you may like, but remember that my grandsires imprint is much more likely to help against the undead."
The lady smiles softly for a moment, and turns back to Gareth.
"You say these events are withering... what would you rather turn yourself to?"
Jandar Wednesday July 7th, 2004 2:03:58 AM
Jandar steps forward and asks,"Can we bypass these glyphs with the ....pieces of the insignias we found on the dead drow, or do we need something else?"
Gareth Wednesday July 7th, 2004 6:37:08 AM
The warrior smiles at the words of the elven woman. "My good lady, even the powerful need a moment of respit from time to time. It IS withering at times to do what we do - but there is nothing else I would rather be doing. And I know that goes for the others here as well. We have made the commitment and taken on the mantle as defenders of the realm. Not so easy. But the thing we should be about. So tell me Illimria, is there anything else you can do to help us defeat these creatures? And what would you have us do about the Black Dragon and the drow? Should we oppose them too in your opinion?".
Jus Wednesday July 7th, 2004 9:54:09 AM
"Kieran is a child we found," Jus answers the question Illimria asked a few minutes ago. "We are caring for him," Jus offers without further information.
When Gareth says we should go kill Lathiese, Jus cringes. If Kieran can hear all that they say -- which it certainly seems he can -- this type of talk can be dangerous. Perhaps Jus should find another home for the dragon.
"Right now, we need to scry what we've seen so far, watch for a trespasser down that hallway and see what happens [if one would ever be foolish enough to go there], plan a way in. We need to find more drow clothes, disguise ourselves, but still have means to tell us from them. This is not going to be simple by any means."
"Lathiese and Fai'fasal have battled these undead before," Jus continues. "We are now allied with them and need to meet and get there information. It would be foolish to go on without."
"As Gareth said, the number one goal is to find where the undead's souls rest. If we go blindly in hoping for luck, we'll do little to end this."
Kieran, how are you doing? You're seeing a lot today. Let me know if there is something you want to do, or somewhere you want to go.
Tericus Wednesday July 7th, 2004 11:02:13 AM
"Lets do something." Tericus says as he continues to pace. "The more time we take the worse things get."
Nonam Wednesday July 7th, 2004 2:57:13 PM
Nonam nods at Tericus in agreement. He doesn't seem to much care for this place. He also seems agitated about not knowing what question to ask.
Only one! How can I only ask one thing?
Gareth Wednesday July 7th, 2004 10:48:49 PM
The warrior turns to the mage. "Ask your question so we can go. Tericus, have you asked?".
Almost home - Dm Ian Thursday July 8th, 2004 2:49:54 AM
Jandar asks his question, and the mists do not change. Instead, he hears the Oracles voice in his mind.
Highlight to display spoiler: {The sigils will disarm most, disguise will defeat the rest. Dark elves do not bar your way, however. You are strength walking, favored and blessed. You who please me, hear this. Morlas will never stop, but he has enemies and cannot turn his full strength to you. Perhaps this can be useful to you.}
Illimria smiles faintly at Gareth, and replies, "You have a high opinion of my own strength. I am no wyrm yet to match my grandsire, so I must keep to the jungle and choose what fights I can win."
She looks over the party for a moment, her gaze settling on Nonam for a time before she speaks again.
"This portion of the Wold has long been forsaken by men and elves. Dragons have laired here and in the Scab for ages, and we remember many things that have been forgotten by others. I will offer this knowledge to you, Storms, should you have need of it."
"I cannot answer your question about who you should oppose, however. You know better than I the limits of your strength, and which of your enemies you must strike before they can act."
She then stops and watches Jus, her expression neutral and guarded.
Kieran seems mostly silent, whimpering from time to time, in time with the tink of his claws on the coins he was given earlier.
Illimria then returns to the coiled-serpent shaped font. As she does so, the mist swirls reaches out from one side of the cavern to settle around her. It is a curious gesture, more like a protective embrace than anything threatening.
Nonam Thursday July 8th, 2004 12:49:18 PM
Nonam shrugs his shoulders at Gareth and turns to face the mirror, "Is Morlas his own master, or does he work at another's behest."
A final revelation - Dm Ian Thursday July 8th, 2004 6:15:02 PM
Nonam's question causes the mists to change one last time. The left side of the cavern goes black, but the right is filled with all manner of color.
The scene is of a delved cavern, the walls held up into place with ornate pillars. Coming walking down from the blackness at the far end of the tunnel comes a shadowed form of even deeper void-black, topped by flaming red eyes. This form speaks with Morlas' voice, and addresses a pitiful human scrurrying behind Morlas, bent from injuries and age, and bearing the holy symbol of Marteus on his chest.
Morlas hisses as he walks hurriedly down the length of the cavern towards an imposing prismatic sphere on the right side of the vision.
"Do not come again unless those who dispatched the army are dealt with. I knew your master when he was but mortal, and one day he and I will be at least equals. Do not trifle me with anything less than an offering of equals to match my fate."
The priest of Marteus at his heels quails and begins to squeak out a response, but Morlas wheels on him again, at the edge of the prismatic sphere.
"If yout Master wishes to propose a Testing between the two of us, I will accept. Until then, begone. I have my empire to attend to."
With that, Morlas turns and strides quickly into the prismatic sphere and is gone. The priest of Marteus remains kneeling on the ground, despair on his face, as the mists return to silver-white. With the change comes the expected telepathic voice in Nonam's head.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Morlas has spellbooks as you have never seen. He has built constructs and enchanted items beyond your knowledge. Yet, it is all for ego, for hunger, or arrogance. He will come for one of the arcane in your group, you know. That is how he builds his might, his servants. If offered what he has, how would you respond? }
With this Illimria looks over the group, and says, "I must ask you to leave the Oracle room, or commence bargaining with it for a quest. After such questions are answered, it is my responsibility to reseal this room. However, should you have need to return, your messages will find me."
Gareth Thursday July 8th, 2004 11:28:43 PM
"So he views himself an equal to a god - a god who killed me. How nice... At least he appears to be alone. I wonder if we have what it takes to destroy him?". Turning to the dragon, the warrior bows. "It has been an honor to meet you and your - and the Oracle's - help is greatly appreciated. We will try to not let it go in vain. Please visit us in the city. It will be good for the Overlord to know who her allies are.".
Jus Friday July 9th, 2004 12:30:20 AM
"Yes," Jus adds to Gareth's request, "please visit us. I know I would be especially honored to dine with you."
Jus leaves things at that, unsure himself just what is behind his thoughts. Before he leaves, however, Jus owes her a little more.
"We don't know Kieran's lineage... for certain. But he is a child and was left in our care by his father." Pausing, Jus considers his next words.
"We will take care of him until we determine what would be best for him."
Onrad Friday July 9th, 2004 9:49:44 AM
"Kill Morlas? For that we need the sword the Blacks have which they are giving to the drow to oppose Morlas, right?"
Onrad bows to the lady and backs out of the room.
Nonam Friday July 9th, 2004 3:02:55 PM
"Seems everyone wants to be a god these days. It must not be that hard. Maybe I should give it a try."
Gareth Friday July 9th, 2004 9:33:38 PM
The warrior smiles at Nonam. "Be patient, my friend. Seems you may have the chance some day. I for one would enjoy not growing old - but I would not want hthe worship of others...". Before teh encounter is over he turns to the woman/dragon. "Can you provide us what you think our best point will be to begin this quest? Being a dragon I imagine you could help us with that. We have expended a great deal of magic today. We need to be ready...".
Sweet Parting - Dm Ian Saturday July 10th, 2004 1:27:57 AM
As the group files out, and Illimria reseals the mighty valved door leading to the Oracle's chamber, the afternoon sun shines down the staircase into the center room of the Temple of Eternal Life.
The silver dragon-lady takes a few moments to gaze upon each of the Storms, as if committing your features to memory. She bows to Tericus and Jandar, then, smiling.
"I think there is wisdom walking with the Storms, and the strength that must flow from it for dark times. You are welcome here again, priests of life and strength, for I think my grandsires legacy is the same road you walk willingly."
Turning to Onrad and Gareth, her smile is no less.
"Endurance and will. This is the core my people speak of when walking the road you intend. I will come to you again, when you call. It is the least I can do to honor your struggle."
She stops for a moment at Addenein, and states, "You know the signs of your people, and to what they can be driven to. Lead your friends west of this place in a straight line to the mountains, and then follow the edge of the high places a half day north. Here you will find the way to the encampment of Teir'Dal and Yntyrin, the way that leads down into the deep places."
Finally she stops and stares at Nonam and Jus.
"Sometimes I ask myself what power means. My people are what we are, growing into a dream set down a very long time ago. Yet, it is not the same with your people, and the study of the Art. Power changes, but only as a distillation of what you were in the first place, or so my grandsire said."
She seems poised to say more, and then simply bows to the group.
"May Domi lend you strength and Alemi enrich your lives."
Sweet Parting - Dm Ian Saturday July 10th, 2004 1:27:57 AM
As the group files out, and Illimria reseals the mighty valved door leading to the Oracle's chamber, the afternoon sun shines down the staircase into the center room of the Temple of Eternal Life.
The silver dragon-lady takes a few moments to gaze upon each of the Storms, as if committing your features to memory. She bows to Tericus and Jandar, then, smiling.
"I think there is wisdom walking with the Storms, and the strength that must flow from it for dark times. You are welcome here again, priests of life and strength, for I think my grandsires legacy is the same road you walk willingly."
Turning to Onrad and Gareth, her smile is no less.
"Endurance and will. This is the core my people speak of when walking the road you intend. I will come to you again, when you call. It is the least I can do to honor your struggle."
She stops for a moment at Addenein, and states, "You know the signs of your people, and to what they can be driven to. Lead your friends west of this place in a straight line to the mountains, and then follow the edge of the high places a half day north. Here you will find the way to the encampment of Teir'Dal and Yntyrin, the way that leads down into the deep places."
Finally she stops and stares at Nonam and Jus.
"Sometimes I ask myself what power means. My people are what we are, growing into a dream set down a very long time ago. Yet, it is not the same with your people, and the study of the Art. Power changes, but only as a distillation of what you were in the first place, or so my grandsire said."
She seems poised to say more, and then simply bows to the group.
"May Domi lend you strength and Alemi enrich your lives."
Nonam Saturday July 10th, 2004 8:59:41 PM
After the dragon is gone, Nonam looks at Jus, "What in the Wold did that mean?"
Tericus Sunday July 11th, 2004 10:19:35 PM
as they leave, Tericus calms down a little bit after hearing the dragon's words. "You hear that, the dragon said you should listen to me and Jandar." Tericus says with a small smile
Jandar Monday July 12th, 2004 2:22:58 PM
Jandar smiles at Tericus's quip, then adds with a wink,"Without a doubt, that Oracle is the wisest being I've met. Lead on, Tericus! I'll take over when you tire of it."
He almost chokes himself up as he laughs.
Onrad Monday July 12th, 2004 4:40:56 PM
"Perhaps it's a new fad. Talking all esoteric and stuff. Or, I hate to say it, what if that's how all powerful beings talk and you have to learn to talk that way in riddles and such as you grow in power. We may all be talking that way soon.
"I mean the signs are that the future for us holds many lessons in verbosity and that such verbosity will affect the tenuousity of our existances in this specific plane of linear existence."
Under the clean sky, a new direction - Dm Ian Monday July 12th, 2004 6:27:12 PM
Parting with the silver dragon, and climbing the temple steps back outside, the Storms find themselves back in the ravaged clearing where they fought Ash. The little birds are gone now, replaced instead by a gentle, misting rain falling from light clouds above. It is a peaceful sight of nature rebuilding its own, if a little more work to travel in.
All along the west horizon the nearby mountains loom. Following the line of Illimria's directions, the Storms can see a small pass leading up into the mountains just a little north of due west from your current position.
Eastward and north your home lies. Who knows what events transpire there even yet.
The jungle stretches north and south beyond the limits of your sight. Jandar and Tericus can sense a faint presence diffused all about them now, and Nonam can see magical current up in the clouds winding northward, weak but of obvious magnitude to have reached so far.
Where to?
Gareth Monday July 12th, 2004 8:53:10 PM
The warrior appears blank as the other use their big words about power and visions. "I just figure we'll go take out some liches...".
Looking to the mountains, he offers "I'll be glad to let one of you go first - if you'd like...". :). Not waiting for an answer, he begins the journey in front. "I suppose we should contact the drow and tell them we're coming - or should we just show up?".
Nonam Tuesday July 13th, 2004 9:49:24 AM
"Fai'fasal asked for a sending spell, didn't he? Does anyone have something like memorized or on a scroll. It's not in my standard repetoire."
Onrad Tuesday July 13th, 2004 10:57:44 AM
And we should ask these drow for that sword the Black Dragons are giving them that slays liches. Might help and can't hurt to ask or barter for it. Although I'm not so sure we should tell them what we're up to. Not that we can stop anyone right now from watching us and seeing.
Sorry, but all this subterfuge is giving me a headache. Youd think that with my castle training I'd be good at that huh?
Jus Tuesday July 13th, 2004 9:52:05 PM
"I believe I heard exactly what she meant," Jus tells Nonam. "Although I'm not sure I'm going to listen."
"Linear existence?" Jus asks Onrad. "I'm sorry to hear you're still constrained to such. Remind me the next time I sidestep into the next dimension."
When Nonam brings up Sending, Jus just shrugs. He'll not be able to contribute to that, either.
Idling looking around, Jus starts wandering off in the general direction of where they were going.
Keiran, I know you have the ring and don't need to eat, but if you feel like hunting for another of those boar-like things, now would be a good time, Jus thinks to the dragon cub.
Oh, Jus says, one more thing. Can you assume humanoid form yet?
And off we go - Dm Ian Tuesday July 13th, 2004 10:25:15 PM
Setting off across the jungle, the Storms pass through the light rain and the heavy foilage without incident.
Kieran sulks for a while, unanswering, until he finally falls asleep. He has stopped wimpering, but what he thinks of is a mystery.
It is in fact amazing how little the jungle and its denizens avoid any trouble to the group. Animals can only be heard in the far distance, and bushes almost seem to part as the group moves through them. Even the insects that come out as the days travel lengthens and cools remain at a reasonable distance from the group.
Soon enough the sun sets, with the Storms still a few hours from the base of the mountains. You remember that the predators are supposed to be most active in this terrain at dusk and just after.
Do you choose to press on or make camp.
Jandar 4d12(10+8+10+11)=39 d20+6=25 d20+6=22 d20+6=22 d20+6=9 d20+6=15 d20+6=12 d20+6=15 d20+6=25 d20+6=23 d20+6=15 Wednesday July 14th, 2004 1:49:12 AM
When the group nears a camping spot, and Gareth makes it clear that is the intent of the party, Jandar casts 'Control Weather'. He changes the weather to remain dry, as he hates being wet. He also keeps the humidity at a bit lower level than normal, with the temperature about the same as it's been.
When the group does make camp, he pulls out several spell components and goes to work. He casts 'Eagles Splendor' to raise his Charisma ability for his next spell: Consecrate. He will then move about a large area around the party while spreading a bunch of silver dust and holy water casting the Consecrate spell.
When he's finished, he looks a bit weary, then says,"I can do the Sending, if you'd like. Or, I'm sure Tericus probably can as well, if he wants to. But, be sure you want them to know we are coming before we do that. Didn't the vision show Fai'fasal, or however you say it, getting killed? When did this occur, and do we have any other contacts within the drow city that are....trustworthy?
And, one last question before I go to sleep. Are there any other spells we should cast before going to sleep that you guys can think of? I'll take last watch, if that's okay. I'm a bit out of shape and I wouldn't want to fall asleep during my watch."
(control weather lasts 39 hours, 2 mile radius. Made several consecrate checks if they are needed, let me know, or Ian can roll the damage, if something happens)
Gareth Wednesday July 14th, 2004 6:32:40 AM
Once they find a good place to camp, the warrior offers to the others. "I'm not sure we should tell anyone. I think perhaps the liches will be busy with the other groups as Morlas is 'already moving' - whatever that means - maybe we can slip in and find the phylactories from behind? Also, is there any way for us to prevent anyone looking at us right now? Whay is it called? Scrying? We also need to be prepared to ue that wand. How do we do that? One of you guys know?".
Nonam Wednesday July 14th, 2004 10:32:43 AM
"How about either Jandar or Tericus memorizes the spell in the morning, then we at least have the option of sending a message if we like."
Then Nonam sits and studies his spellbooks trying to pick the best combination to memorize in the morning.
Onrad Wednesday July 14th, 2004 12:01:07 PM
Onrad shrugs when no one shows any interest in the item designed to kill Morlas.
He relaxes in camp.
"Yes, protection from scrying from now on is a good thing. But if needed Nonam will do it. Just don't ask him, he'll turn you in to a frog."
Jus Wednesday July 14th, 2004 9:21:44 PM
"No, Onrad," Jus says, "I think Nonam said he'll turn Gareth into a frog. I've never seen him do it, but he keeps threatening to. Sort of like the proverbial dog with a bark bigger than his bite."
Jus casually walks to the other side of the camp away from Nonam and prepares a place to sleep. "I'll take first watch, even though I suspect Jandar's preparations make that moot."
LOG ON