Inside (DM/Al) Wednesday December 22nd, 2004 9:56:34 PM
Niobe puts the key in the lock. Those around her show reactions that span the spectrum. From boredom to shock to grim fatalistic anticipation. The metal of the key encounters the metal of the lock. The sound of ratcheting as teeth push away plates. And then ... nothing.
The young barbarian guide's mouth opens with surprise. The woman put the metal bone into a hole in the wood door covering. Somehow the bone and the door covering must be magically linked.
Then the woman speaks to him. She smiles and looks into his face. Plays with her hair. Tokun is transfixed, unable to speak or move. He blushes a bright red.
Savin steps forward offering to turn the key. Peerimus lets out a breath that he has been holding and hooks Savin's belt, pulling him back.
Luke sniffs at the edges of the room and finds nothing that he had not found before.
Firn'gaer calls for the others to move back and he invokes some simple powers of transmutation. From afar, he causes the key to turn. Outside the room the click and chak of the turning tumblers can be heard in the cold motionless air. With a final loud *Tak* the bolt releases.
The air is still.
Redirecting his powers, the wizard slowly shoots the bolt. It grinds as it slides, but offers no other complaint. The power pushes at the door, but it proves too heavy.
Savin moves quickly forward and pushes the door open. Out rolls warm air, engulfing Savin and the rest of the room. Through the door the light is low. Small dots of light at ten foot intervals above create a spectral twilight that offer a dim glimpse of a long room that stretches away into the distance. Even Shiraz and Ilsidur have difficulty seeing in this low half-light. To Sly, however, it is as clear as though it were day.
The room is large, and largely unadorned. Thirty feet wide, it is, and almost one hundred feet long. Stone walls, stone floor, stone ceiling. A glance at the other side of the door reveals no lock on the inside. The door opens freely from within. Stepping further into the room, one might notice that a sign graces the wall beside the door. A single word at the top is written in red. The one's below are in black. (Anyone speak gnomish?) Seven feet off the ground and at five foot intervals, wide metal rings are affixed along both side walls. Down the center of the long room, in line with it's axis, are low benches, four in all. Between the benches are low cabinets, no more than five feet tall. From their place at the doorway, the Children of Chaos stare down the perspective of the long room, benches running end to end with cabinets between them.
Sly can see all the way to the other end. He sees other signs on the walls. To him the door three quarters of the way down on the right hand wall is quite clear. So too, is the 15 foot wide dark tunnel on the distant opposite wall, it's mouth leading further into the unknown.
Not a sound comes from the room. The room smells ... empty.
Shiraz Wednesday December 22nd, 2004 10:19:56 PM
Shiraz watches in silent admiration for the mage as he opens the door silently. As each of them peer over or around each other Shiraz asks, "Should I step in or is somone else going in first?"
Niobe Thursday December 23rd, 2004 2:27:19 AM
Niobe watches the door open and is frankly relieved that nothing bad happend.
"It's fine by me if you want to go first Shiraz."
If Shiraz enters the room and nothing happens then Niobe will be following close behind. She does speak and read gnomish, and will take the time to read the signs. If what she reads is important then she will tell the others what the signs say; or she will tell anyone if they ask her.
It occurs to her that maybe Tokun knows some gnomish as well so she asks him if he can speak gnomish. Naturally she asks Tokun the question in gnomish. If he can speak gnomish then she will immediately ask him to ask her his question again in gnomish.
Sly and Luke d20+15=30 Thursday December 23rd, 2004 8:47:18 AM
Sly watches as Firn'garr wrestle with the lock, but then it clicks. Then the task to open the door, then they all peek inside and wondering who will go in first. Sly Said "I'll go in now, because I can see clear to the end of the room!"
Sly turns his head "Luke! Come!" He enters into the rrom about 40 feet inside, stops and starts to discribing the room, the with 30 feet, the lenth 100feet, The sign on the walls "I cannot read them." Sly tells his friends, then he continues to discribing the room, the ceiling, the walls, the floor, the benchs, the cabinets and most of all those awful rings. "At the end of the room theres a tunnel about 15 feet wide, that where the slaves must have to exit down that tunnel."
Sly shows the shell again to Luke, "Smell again, Luke and tell me if you can smell alot of elves and halfelves that use to be here??"
Luke will take the scent again and start to track for the elven scent!
OOC: Luke tracks by scent 30.
Peerimus and Yorrick Thursday December 23rd, 2004 9:23:30 AM
The color returns to the druids face as nothing happens and there is the bonus that beyond the door it is warmer, albeit darker.
Peerimus opts to let most others move into the room first. He and Yorrick will be the last.
"Appears to be a changing room. Niobe if you could be so kind as to investigate a cabinet or two?"
Niobe (illegal 2nd post) d20+9=26 d20+9=22 d20+9=18 d20+9=15 d20+9=17 d20+9=10 d20+16=31 d20+16=20 d20+16=18 d20+16=26 d20+16=25 d20+16=20 Thursday December 23rd, 2004 4:14:23 PM
Niobe was quick to enter the room (after at least one of the warriors) because she couldn't help but notice Tokun blush and because of the language problem she didn't know how to handle the situation. So she opted for giving poor Tokun some space instead of waiting for the young man to say or do something else.
This is what Niobe will do after reading all of the gnomish signs:
Niobe will check all of the cabinet as Peerimus asks of her. She first checks for traps, and if she finds none then she will open the cabinet. If she finds any traps she will obviously disarm the traps first.
(I have no true concept of how many cabinets there are so I rolled 6 search checks - searching for traps, and 6 open lock checks.)
Savin Thursday December 23rd, 2004 5:16:31 PM
Savin will step into the room and move about halfway down into the room, keeping to the center. He will then try to keep an eye on everyting. Scanning the room in both directions.
Signage (DM/Al) Thursday December 23rd, 2004 11:51:07 PM
Sly and Shiraz enter the room first. Sly shouts a description back to those still outside the door. Niobe enters with Luke on her heels. While the rogue studies the signs, Luke follows the various scents in the room. In this room, the war dog snuffs up a confusing hodgepodge of scents. It seems to him that there might be a trace of elf in the mix, but it's hard to tell for sure. Luke's only reply is to sneeze and shake his head.
Niobe speaks to Tokun again. He leans toward her. Something in his eyes speaks of both anticipation and dread. He sways forward, and then back. Eyes looking anywhere but the woman's face, Tokun says, "Wanj basath ja." He backs away.
Niobe reads the sign next to the door. It says "WARNING!" in large red letters at the top. Under that it continues: "Unprotected area ahead. Exit without the proper equipment can result in cold related injury or death."
The signs further down all say the same thing. One sign is posted before each of the three cabinets. They say: "WARNING! This is a Security Area. Cabinets are Locked and Trapped. NO STEALING. You know who you are!"
From this it is clear to Niobe that the cabinets are indeed trapped, even without inspection. Still, she looks anyway. Try as she might, though, she cannot find a one of the traps. Finding none of the traps, she found no way to disable them.
Signage (DM/Al) Thursday December 23rd, 2004 11:52:34 PM
Sly and Shiraz enter the room first. Sly shouts a description back to those still outside the door. Niobe enters with Luke on her heels. While the rogue studies the signs, Luke follows the various scents in the room. In this room, the war dog snuffs up a confusing hodgepodge of scents. It seems to him that there might be a trace of elf in the mix, but it's hard to tell for sure. Luke's only reply is to sneeze and shake his head.
Niobe speaks to Tokun again. He leans toward her. Something in his eyes speaks of both anticipation and dread. He sways forward, and then back. Eyes looking anywhere but the woman's face, Tokun says, "Wanj basath ja." He backs away.
Niobe reads the sign next to the door. It says "WARNING!" in large red letters at the top. Under that it continues: "Unprotected area ahead. Exit without the proper equipment can result in cold related injury or death."
The signs further down all say the same thing. One sign is posted before each of the three cabinets. They say: "This is a Security Area. Cabinets are Locked and Trapped. NO STEALING. You know who you are!"
From this it is clear to Niobe that the cabinets are indeed trapped, even without inspection. Still, she looks anyway. Try as she might, though, she cannot find a one of the traps. Finding none of the traps, she found no way to disable them.
Sly and Luke d20+5=19 Friday December 24th, 2004 5:45:56 AM
Sly rub and scratches Luke, "You are very good, you are confused because my mother has been gone for many years. Thank you that alone tell me alot!"
Sly will go to the entrance of the tunnel, wanting to go in BUT he hears Niobe as she read the signs. "OH! Great! and I'll bet the those cabinets Are Trap!. And all I want to know is if there's protective gear in there or if they're empty?"
Luke will sniff at a cabinet *sniff... sniff... sinff*
Luke sniffing at cabinet 19. (maybe Luke has to go??)
Peerimus and Yorrick Friday December 24th, 2004 11:52:36 AM
With the new information Niobe reads to the group, "Obviously a preparation are for the dwellers of this underground to proceed outside."
"As we have adaquate gear for the outdoors I really don't think we need to bother with the cabinets."
Noting Tokun, "Our guide is definately on nerve, we very well may have found the raiders home, though I would not have expected gnomes."
"I suggest we prepare for more violent responses from those who live here."
Peerimus casts Greater Magic Fang on himself and shares it with Yorrick. +1 to all natural weapons.
active spells on Yorrick and Peerimus Endure elements (48) Hours Greater Magic Fang (9) Hours
Niobe Friday December 24th, 2004 8:38:00 PM
Niobe looks wistfully at the cabinets. However she has other business to take care of...
The rogue quickly closes the distance between herself and Tokun. She reaches out and holds him firmly but absolutely not threateningly by his left elbow. Her hand rests on his arm. She will speak in Common again, since speaking gnomish provoked a bad reaction as far as she can tell.
"I won't hurt you, really - not intentionally at any rate... Are the gnomes *Niobe gestures to the signs* your enemies?"
Niobes voice reflects calm steadiness, she is trying to use her inflection to inspire trust and security. She doesn't take her eyes off of Tokun; nor does she move her hand, this time she doesn't look him quite in the eye. She is catching on that her actions were probably not what the barbarian would have expected so she endevours to avoid keeping long term eye contact. She finds herself wishing that they had at least one spoken language in common.
Savin d20+13=28 d20+13=29 Friday December 24th, 2004 11:31:58 PM
Savin listens to the discourse and hears the translation of the signs. "Hmmmm interesting. Sounds like a lot of people must have lived here or still do.
The signs have an institution sound to them. Like they were talking to a whole bunch of people. I wonder how many rooms there are?"
Savin heads across to the other side of the room and peers down the tunnel and listens for any noise.
Listen 29 Spot 28
The Unexpected (DM/Al) Friday December 24th, 2004 11:36:02 PM
Sly walks across the room toward the tunnel at the other end. On the way, he passes the door on the right wall. Hearing Niobe's translation of the signs he stops and throws up his hands. Luke sniffs at the cabinets. They smell of gnomes.
Savin joins Sly. He trains eyes and ears into the blackness. Not a creature stirs, not even a mouse.
Peerimus notes Tokun's distress and suspects it is rooted in the room and those who use it. He prepares for conflict.
Niobe takes Tokun's arm, speaking to him with calm and sincerity. Tokun's eyes go wide. For a frozen moment, he appears a deer blinded by a great light, knowing its fate, yet unable to move. Then, with a strangled cry, a half whimper, he acts. Taking Niobe's face in his hands, he kisses her in just the same way that The Hands Fighting Man had.
The door from which the group had entered stands open to the cold polar air of Ice Vein. Perhaps it is the sound of a distant wind. Or perhaps it is the echo of a rock fall from a nearby canyon. Still, the sounds that drift in the open door bear an eerie similarity to a human voice, a voice that the group knows cannot be out there.
"Ho ho ho. Merry Christmas ... Comes the jolly laugh on the frigid winter wind. And then it is gone.
Sly and Luke d20+3=20 Saturday December 25th, 2004 7:40:41 AM
Luke looks at Sly tells him; "Door... Gnomes!"
Sly stop in his tracks, then he's off to the door. He put his ear to the door and listen (20).
When Savin joins him, sly whispers to him "I think we have life here??"
Niobe Saturday December 25th, 2004 4:38:57 PM
Niobe was certainly not expecting a kiss from Tokun! That wasn't an 'answer' she would have expected to her question. Now it is her turn to look completely stunned, thankfully her jaw does not drop. As her stunned expression passes it is replaced by a very noticable blush and a slightly confused expression. Amazingly Niobe has no quick comments to make, and so remains uncharacteristicly quiet.
The only thought going through her mind is 'what did I do to prompt that? After what seems like several minutes the corners of her mouth twitch as if she is about to grin. Slowly she will indeed grin very slightly, but the blush remains, and the rogue certainly feels her face "burning". She can't make up her mind whether to laugh or to cry, but that doesn't show in her facial expression.
"oh... dear gods..." Niobe whispers very quietly.
Niobe takes a quarter step back, drops her hands to her sides and glances briefly around for Ilsidur, she doesn't turn her head but looks for the dwarven cleric by moving her eyes. Notably she only glances every so often at Tokun, but not in anger. In fact other than some confusion it is very difficult to see what she is thinking or feeling - except that she isn't angry or upset. She doesn't want to be the one responsible for 'chasing off' their much needed guide.
"Ilsidur? Do you still understand what our guide says??" Niobe will ask Ilsidur if she succeeds in making eye contact with the cleric.
Young and Misunderstood (DM/Al) Saturday December 25th, 2004 9:45:53 PM
Sly puts his ear to the door on the right wall. He warns Savin that there might be something behind it. Still, the half-elf hears nothing.
After Tokun's kiss, Niobe grins and blushes, looking for succor. Tokun, for his part, appears unable to look Niobe in the face. He fidgets, catching furtive looks at the other Magic Ones from the corners of his eyes. Slowly, he backs away. He steals a quick glance at the door still open to Ice Vein beyond. Tokun remains in place, eyes to the floor, a look of pure unadulterated misery on his face.
"Uhuk nyaha," he says in a dejected voice.
Sly and Luke Sunday December 26th, 2004 6:56:26 AM
Sly is listening at the door, But catches the look on Niobe's face, then as to how uncompable Tokum is. Sly remembers his kissing his first girl. He cannot help himself, so he lets out a few giggles, "Tee! Hee!"
Sly lifts his head from the door, "Ilsidur! I think your needed over by the door! Smicker!"
Firn'gaer Sunday December 26th, 2004 5:06:26 PM
Firn'gaer is quite amuzed at the scene before him.
Ah...young love...
Niobe d20+3=19 Sunday December 26th, 2004 6:50:06 PM
Niobe recognizes the tone of voice but not the words. She also sees that he is heading for the exit - and that she won't allow. She sprints passed the young barbarian and does her level best to block the door so he cannot leave. Gesturing for him to please stay, indeed she just might end up pleading.
She will tell him that she isn't offended, but surprised; even though he cannot seem to understand her words. She is clearly sincere, and her face shows sympathy and care. The rogue has a very good idea that the young man must be in love with her. Niobe is not sure how to handle that either.
Niobe quickly weighs her options, because they cannot afford to lose the only person with local knowledge. She would almost kill for a translator at this point!
If Niobe fails to stop Tokun from leaving, or fails even to persuade him to stay (she feels that might fail anyway because of a lack of a common language).
Thus if all else fails she will do the only thing left that she can think of - she will pull him into a close embrace and kiss Tokun as passionately as she can muster. She will put as much feeling into her action as only she can. (Perform 19) She can't resort to playing the 'helpless female', she has shown that she is too skilled for that ruse. One heck of a kiss might just convince him to stay if anything? 'Desperate times call for desperate measures!'
The consequences will just have to be dealt with later. The rogue won't be looking forward to that...
(Perform 19)
Scolded Puppy (DM/Al) Sunday December 26th, 2004 10:37:34 PM
The woman moves to cut Tokun off from the door to Ice Vein outside. Tokun makes no move to evade or oppose her. Rather, he begins following her around. He never seems to look directly at her. At least not while she's looking.
Meanwhile, Sly and Savin remain at the closed door. There is still nothing to hear from within.
The door to the anteroom is still open. Cold from outside begins to creep its way in.
Shiraz Monday December 27th, 2004 5:08:07 AM
Shiraz shakes his head at the antics of Niobe and then chuckles softly rememberin his first love and how he followed her around like a love struck cow. "Well now what Shiraz says to his friends after Tokun becomes Niobes puppy dog?"
Sly and Luke Monday December 27th, 2004 8:21:18 AM
Sly tells Savin, "I don't know about you But! I'm freezing with the door open, I wonder if we close the door and cut the wind off. If we'll be force to take the tunnel?? All thow I'd like to see what behind this door too??.
Luke look s at Sly, "Me too!"
Firn'gaer Monday December 27th, 2004 8:40:20 AM
"Oh la, la...maybe I should leave too?" Firn'gaer says jestingly. "Could I have one of those?"
Peerimus and Yorrick Monday December 27th, 2004 4:15:52 PM
Peerimus notes the cold and perhaps those without the benefit of magic are beggining to feel it. This room did initially contain warmer air and perhaps there is something else as well.
If all are in the room, Peerimus moves to the door and shuts it.
Firn'gaer's comment makes it to his ears just as the door closes, and suddenly he wished he had left it open for the running wizard to have more escape room.
Niobe d20+9=24 d20+16=28 Monday December 27th, 2004 8:32:12 PM
Niobe can only wonder at Tokun's current behaviour. The rogue hardly dares even glance Tokun's way right now. She won't bother trying to ask any questions for the moment, since that tactic has been failing miserably. She is somewhat relieved that she didn't have to take any "drastic measures" however.
Niobe will join Savin and Sly at the next door. She will focus only on the door since she is half expecting some comment or other about Tokun's behaviour towards herself.
She checks the door as throughly as she did the last one. If it seems safe then she will try and unlock any lock on the door.
(Search (traps) 24, Open Lock 28) (Trapfinding: Search 27, Trap sense +2 if she actually sets any traps off.)
Distractions Aside (DM/Al) Monday December 27th, 2004 9:28:50 PM
Love's a funny thing. As long as it isn't happening to you. The group takes note of the little drama between their guide and one of their number.
Peerimus closes the outer door.
Niobe shakes off all comments and distractions, and sets herself to the task at hand. This task is the door in the right wall.
Tokun follows a few paces behind. Midnight Woman, as he has decided to name her, stops at another wooden tent flap and begins examining it. Tokun turns a covert eye to Hands Fighting Man. He wonders if Hands Fighting Man is angry with him. Tokun would be were he in Hands Fighting Man's place. It may not be safe for Tokun to be with the Magic Ones, but there is little he can do. His path is now set.
Niobe's search of the door returns no sign of traps. This door is more typical of an indoors portal with a turning handle rather than a bolt. The door is locked, but that is little impediment to the rogue. Her picks make quick work of the locking mechanism, releasing the door handle with a satisfying click.
Now, all that remains is to open the door.
Niobe Monday December 27th, 2004 10:50:19 PM
Niobe smiles widely, and very successfully quells a nerdy squeal of delight as she succeeds yet again.
"Man, I am good..." she whispers very quietly to herself.
Niobe stands and moves away from the door, with a dramatic flourish she motions to the door.
"Who wants the honor?"
She finishes with the same dramatic flair as she asks who really wants to open the door.
"So far as I can tell there are no traps," she half-seriously points out with a smirk.
The rogue glances around at all of the gentlemen in the group, as she looks to see who will accept "the task".
Sly and Luke d20+3=14 d20+3=14 d20+5=15 d20+15=33 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 9:11:03 AM
Sly Smiles at Niobe, "Yes! You are great and if you play your card right, Tokum will be your body guard. A job that he'll do well. But then again we are all in love with your talent!". Sly smiles but put his hand on the door and slowly open it.
If Savin is still with him they both will look inside (with weapons drawn).
Luke is trying to nose his way into the room also.
Sly will look into the room (14) then enter and serch (14).
Luke if he can get through the two human bodies, he will enter look around (15) and strat to Track by sniffing (33).
Savin d20+13=17 d20+13=24 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 11:54:03 AM
Savin seems oblivious to the attention that Niobe is getting from the young guide. He seems oblivious but he really isn't. He wonders if Niobe likes the young man. They have flirted but really haven't gone any farther. Maybe he should back away.
When Niobe unlocks and Sly opens the door, Savin will come to the balls of his feet ready for action. He will look into the room but his eyes keep wandering back to Niobe's legs for some reason.
He shakes his head and tells himself, "The master would beat you for your lack of concentration. He raises his ears to the air and listens as well.
spot 17 listen 24
OOC sorry for the missed post. I am on vacation this week and might be a little spotty.
Peerimus and Yorrick Tuesday December 28th, 2004 1:48:09 PM
The druid and his life long friend move across the room to the door and wait for those who venture first to do so.
What to do about this? Tokun's distraction and budgeoning affection could cause undue problems more specifically cause Tokun to do something stupid to protect her, not to mention Savin's apparent feelings towards Niobe. For now perhaps the best course is to do nothing. Perhaps no, Tokun is already starting to look skittish towards Savin. Again what to do about this?
A Painful Message (DM/Al) Tuesday December 28th, 2004 10:08:51 PM
Satisfied, a job well done, Niobe steps aside to let another enter the door.
Savin, by all appearances, cool and unruffled by the interplay between Niobe and the young barbarian guide, stands ready for what might be beyond the door.
Peerimus too moves forward with Yorrick. His mind is preoccupied, fearing a possible schism in the group.
Sly takes the honor of opening the door. Luke points eagerly forward to investigate the new room. Sly's hand reaches forward and rotates the knob. The bolt slides back with a soft *click*.
To Niobe, the metalic click sounds loud within the long stone room. The world drops into slow motion, and before her eyes and hers alone, the image of a serpent frees itself from the wood of the door and writhes forward. It raises up as if to strike. Then, with a hiss that sounds like a smile, it vanishes.
The door swings open, and ...
Pain. Seering and breath-taking, the pain electrifies the nerves of each and every being within 60 feet of the door. Skin burns with fire. A freezing cold spike stands out of each eye, pierced to the brain. Muscles cramp and twist. Bones grind. All are blind with the he worst pain imaginable, deaf save for the sounds of your own screams.
And the pain does not stop.
[[ Symbol of Pain. No Saves. ]]
Sly and Luke Wednesday December 29th, 2004 7:27:28 AM
After he open the door and started to go into the room. It hit him! He screems from the pain that going through his whole body. His skin burn like the breath from a Red Dragon, His eyes are frozen to in side of his brain, like a breath from a White Dragon. His whole body even his bones, go into a convolsion, almost like a breath from a Black Dragon. Sly cannot see, hear or feel anything except the pain. "EEEEeee!"
Luke also welps in pain, "Kiyii! Yelp! Kiyii!"
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+13=16 d20+2=10 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 9:51:48 AM
The first wave is almost too much, but the shock of the sudden attack is quickly stilled by Peerimus's mind and he quickly puts attention to more important matters, Yorrick. [handle animal 16]
Through the wracking pain, Peerimus grabs a hold of the roaring bear by the neck and moves back from the door. Between the high whine scream in his head and the monstrous and continous bellow of Yorrick the relatively young druid feels he may go mad.
Through the pain, Peerimus tries to recall anything about the spell, but the mind wrenching agony is more than he can put down for such a task. [spellcraft 10]
Savin Wednesday December 29th, 2004 1:17:57 PM
Savin feels the pain wash over his body and tries to control it with a breathing technique taught at the monastary but fails.
He writhes on the ground wondering how Niobe missed this trap.
Firn'gaer d20+17=36 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 2:01:27 PM
As the door opens, Firn'gaer sees the symbol but it's too late. [Spellcraft DC36] The pain surges through him and he collapses to the floor in pain. "Symbol...pain...leave..." is all he can muster under. Through the pain he feels he can also feel the terror of Rufus as the familiar is overcome as well. Writhing as well Rufus falls from the folds of Firn'gaer's robe to the floor.
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Seeing Through The Pain (DM/Al) d20+10=21 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 9:50:52 PM
Taken by surprise, the party is immobilized by the onslaught of pain.
Though cast from a spell which draws power from divine grace, Firn'gaer recognizes it immediately. He falls to the ground with an answer ... a suggestion ... a description on his lips.
Tokun too collapses from the pain. But, collecting his intestinal fortitude, the young barbarian drags himself to his knees and fights his way to Niobe's side.
OoC Fortitude of DC20 or better allows you to fight off the pain for one round and act. You must roll each round that you are effected. -4 to all attack rolls, skill checks, and ability checks. Spells require a concentration check vs DC20.
Spellcraft of DC25 or more and you know: Highlight to display spoiler: {The symbol of pain has a reach of about 60 feet from it's focal point. Leave that area and the direct effects of the symbol can no longer reach you. The pain, though, does have after effects. The direct effects of the Symbol of Pain remain in effect for variable lengths, the time depending upon the power of the caster.}
Shiraz d20+8=27 Thursday December 30th, 2004 12:09:57 AM
ooc Sorry about the missed post my son, Jacob, has pnuemonia and we are trying to make him comfortable.
Shiraz roars with pain swinging his massive hands around to ward off the invisible onslaught. "By Domi's Hammer!" the taur bellows. Shiraz fights through the pain, Fort DC 27, and attempts to slam the door shut.
Niobe d20+7=23 d20+5=14 d20+6=12 Thursday December 30th, 2004 12:19:15 AM
Niobe is of course extremely shocked that she missed that trap, but then again she doesn't know all that much about spells in general. The vision of the snake and the immense pain cause her to collapse initially.
Somehow she finds enough fortitude (strength?) to uncurl herself from the fetalposition she was laying in and get up to her knees. Her eyes streaming tears she tries to look for the snake, but even with wiping her eyes she doesn't see all that much it seems. Niobe is of course as pale as a sheet. The fear she associates with that gods awful vision doesn't make things any easier for her.
She silently curses herself for not being suspicious about the simplicity of opening the door. Seeing at least some of the others writhing in the same intense, all consuming pain as herself she can't help but continue to cry. Not an easy thing to do with eyes that hurt like hell.
Niobe weakly rubs at her eyes again and just manages to spot Tokun moving towards her. If she could think clearly enough she would be wondering if that is a good or a bad thing. For now she is doing all she can just to stay upright, and not scream herself hoarse.
(Search (9-4) 14, Spot (10-4) 12)
Sly and Luke d20+6=23 d20+5=19 Thursday December 30th, 2004 6:21:43 AM
Sly grab his sides and tries to straiten his legs, he feels something beside him (it's Luke and he's yelping with pain). Sly will roll towards the door, and hope the Luke does not bit him (because of the pain the dog is in)
OOC: I don't know how far into the room Sly went into. But I do know that Sly, Sandor, Luke and Shiraz (who was about to enter) went into that room in that order. You'll have to tell me how far Sly gets(you know roll Body - drag the bitting dog)
Firn'gaer d20+9=10 d20+3=17 Thursday December 30th, 2004 10:25:30 AM
"Ahh...Ahh...AHH...AHH...AHHHH...LEAVE, LEAVE, LEAVE..." Screams from Firn'gaer as he is unable to overcome the pain. Curled in the fetal position he writhes on the ground.
Rufus too is still caught in the grips of the spells and squeals are heard amidst Firn'gaer's cries.
[Fort save DC10, Rufus DC17]
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Savin d20+8=24 Thursday December 30th, 2004 3:27:28 PM
Savin straightens up and staggers out of the room. He will try and grab anyone he sees who might not be able to move themselves and drag them from the room.
Please, Just End The Pain (DM/Al) d20+10=24 Thursday December 30th, 2004 9:49:32 PM
Niobe climbs to her knees, and Tokun, eyes narrowed into slits of pain, takes Niobe's arm over his shoulder. He hauls her up, pulling in the direction of the door from which they had all come.
Sly, not far through the doorway at all, rolls out and back into the long changing room. He drags a howling Luke with him.
Savin, stumbles out behind the half-elf and pulls at Firn'gaer pulling him away from the door and the pain. With a sweep of his hand, the monk manages to catch up the little rat as well.
Behind all of them, Shiraz slams the door shut. It latches with a click ...
But the pain does not end.
OoC These are not officially combat rounds. I figure you should all be able to exit the area affected by the Symbol of Pain this next round. That is, if you make your Fortitude Save. And ... if you want to.
Sly and Luke d20+6=23 d20+5=21 Friday December 31st, 2004 8:03:57 AM
OOC Sly made his save 23 and Luke this time made his save 21,
Sly roll away from the door before Shiraz closes it. Now all he is doing is huging Luke in his arms, in a soothing voice, "It's alright Luke! We are out of that room now! That's it, take deep breath and the pain will go away!" Sly rocks his dog back and forth untill the dog quites down.
Luke wippers a little longer, "yip! YIP! owwwWW!"
Niobe d20+7=21 Friday December 31st, 2004 10:20:45 AM
Niobe just manages to fight the pain and nausea from the spell enough to keep moving as Tokun half drags her from the room. She grips his shoulder with one hand and holds on to front of Tokun's coat with the other. Niobe walks unsteadily and therefore leans a bit into Tokun to help keep her balance. Her body has begun to shake somewhat from the constant pain. The rogue is looks very pale.
She has stopped frantically looking for snakes, but is still confused about the trap that wasn't there. 'Opening the door... not a trap on the door...triggered by the door??' Niobe thinks to herself, trying to focus on those thoughts.
Once she is out of the area of effect for the spell; and if Tokun lets her sit, she will slide down a wall and sit with her knees drawn up. Niobe wraps her arms around her legs and leans her forehead on her knees. She tries to stop herself from shaking.
(Fortitude 21)
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+10=27 d20+10=30 d20+13=17 Friday December 31st, 2004 4:56:01 PM
Peerimus and Yorrick both let a primal growl esacpe thier lips as they fight down the pain. Peerimus grabs Firn'gaer by the collar and Rufus and begins pulling them back from the door and towards the outer door. A partial screamed command to Yorrick and the great bear takes a defensive retreating stance between the door and Peerimus as the druid retreats with the downed mage.
[Peerimus Fort 27 Yorrick Fort 30, Handle animal 17]
Firn'gaer d20+9=18 d20+3=9 Sunday January 2nd, 2005 2:58:25 PM
Firn'gaer feels the tug from the others helping him, but the pain is still too great to bear and he gives little assistance. Rufus also is unable to do little more than squeal. He convulses under the pain of the spell.
[Fort save DC 18, Rufus DC9]
Savin d20+10=23 d20+13=29 d20+13=32 Sunday January 2nd, 2005 8:14:15 PM
Savin winces against the pain but decides to straighten up and endure it for the sake of his companions. He feels the group is being herded so he will withstand the pain for a few moments to take a look around and listen for anything he might notice.
If he doesn't notice anything or hear anything he will with a burst of speed, rejoin his friends.
Fort save 23, spot 29, listen 32
Catching Your Breath (DM/Al) Sunday January 2nd, 2005 11:40:48 PM
The entire party picks up and retreats. Peerimus aides Firn'gaer, half dragging him back in the direction from which they had come. Sixty feet from the door, the pain comes to an abrupt end. The effects, however, do not. The bone jarring pain leaves in its wake jangled nerves and weakness. (-4 to Attack and Skill checks for the next hour.)
Back to the wall, Niobe sinks to the floor. Tokun, kneels beside her and offers a skin of water.
Savin covers the retreat. Even through the pain, his senses are far keener than those of the average person. And yet the room reveals no foes.
As breath's are caught and muscles uncramp, those who were near enough to the door find pieces of what they had seen coming back to them.
[[ Will Save of 20 to have caught and retained these bits and pieces: Highlight to display spoiler: {The room is small. In it is a desk. Behind the desk is a rather large portrait hanging on the wall.}
Sly and Luke d20+7=21 d20+3=22 Monday January 3rd, 2005 6:56:38 AM
OOC:Will Check Sly 21(made it) - Luke 22( I don't believe this dog, he made it)
Sitting on the floor, Sly comfort Luke "It's alright Luke! We made it! Rest now until the pain goes away." Sly will ask Savin, "Did you happen to see a door any where in that room?" To everybody else he ask, "Are you alright? Does anybody need anything?" As an after though he adds "Now! I sorry that all of you followed me here in Ice Vein!" As he fight back the tears in his eyes, he keep reminding himself 'Elves don't cry, Ever!'
Jason of Aisildur Monday January 3rd, 2005 10:58:55 AM
Jason opens and closes his hands, still trying to get the feeling back into them. The pain was so intense that at times, the young paladin thought he would surely die from it. Now all he could feel was a dull ache in every muscle as his body responded to the extended impulses of misery inflicted upon him.
Once able to stand, the paladin moves to Shiraz, and asks the hulking minotaur,
"Any ideas?"
OOC: Sorry bout lack of posting, but the holidays made it impossible. I am back now.
Savin d20+10=23 Monday January 3rd, 2005 2:32:27 PM
Savin sucks air into his lungs and blows it out a few times. "That was interesting. Let's find another way out if we can. "
In response to Sly's question, "No I don't remember any doors but I did notice a large portrait. It could be concealing secrets behind it. There was also a desk. Could have been interesting stuff in there."
Will save 23
Niobe d20+5=16 Monday January 3rd, 2005 2:41:16 PM
Niobe doesn't recall any features from the room. She was too busy looking for vipers and wiping tears from her eyes (will save 16).
She registers that Tokun is trying to offer her something. Niobe looks up and sees the waterskin. She takes it from Tokun with a grateful smile. Niobe takes a long drink from it and then hands the waterskin back to him. The rogue is thankful for the drink of water.
Niobe looks back up at Tokun and says 'thank you', even if the words mean nothing her inflection and expression should communicate her thanks, both for getting her out of the room and for the water. She is still smiling faintly, but there is still the hint of the pain visible.
(If anyone mentions the portrait on the wall or the desk, Niobe will tell them that many people usually hide keys and valuables behind large portraits, she will add that desks; if they have locks, are common hiding places as well.)
(Will save 16)
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+5=19 Monday January 3rd, 2005 6:16:34 PM
Both druid and his friend stay well back, Peerimus looks to Firn'Gaer to make sure he is not overly affected, being the only one who fell in pain [Heal 19 check]
"Did any see what lay beyond the door beyond the desk and painting Savin mentioned and Fir'gaer, you mentioned you knew the magic. Might you know how to defeat it?"
Next Move (DM/Al) Monday January 3rd, 2005 9:47:45 PM
The Children of Chaos take a few emotional steps back from the pain inflicted by the trap on the door. Sly is pushed to the edge, possibly by the stress caused by being so close to recovering his mother and sister. So close and yet so far.
Jason stands after a long silence, and his demeanor is more practical and business-like.
Savin, in response to Sly's question, mentions the painting and the desk in the room beyond the door. Niobe echoes the monk's sentiment, adding that what is in the room might be valuable as well as interesting.
As Firn'gaer was the only one not to be able to make his way out of the area of pain on his own power, Peerimus inspects him for physical damage. The wizard seems fine, though just as tired and frazzled as the other members of the party. As he goes about the examination, he asks if Firn'gaer might have a way of defeating the magic.
Tokun returns Niobe's smile with one of relief mixed with the shine of something else. The woman seems to be well. Tokun himself sits. His face shows little of the effects of the pain. Though close observation might notice that the muscles at the sides of his jaw are tense, as though he is or has been gritting his teeth. His eyes move over the assembly of Magic Ones, wondering what they might do next.
Niobe d20+9=24 d20+4=6 d20+10=18 Monday January 3rd, 2005 11:08:29 PM
Niobe studies Tokun's face and the emotions he is showing while he in turn studies the other Children of Chaos. She feels she needs to try and figure out what exactly he feels towards her.
Niobe believes that it could be just infatuation, butbcould it be more than that as well? She seems to be unsure what exactly to make out of what she sees; she must still be befuddled by the ordeal of that horrid spell (Search 24, Sense Motive 6, Spot 18). She certainly catches that 'sparkle' in Tokun's eyes when he looks at her and the difference in his smile; the look of relief was expected. Niobe's stomach begins to feel like it is tying itself into knots again.
Niobe is impressed that Tokun seems to not have reacted so strongly; or almost not at all, to the pain spell. 'Our guide must have one heck of a high pain threshold! Either that or an amazing amount of endurance... Savin too... *mental sigh* Some people have all the luck!', Niobe thinks to herself.
Niobe turns her gaze towards the resident arcanist; Firn'gaer, "Firn'gaer do you have any idea how long that spell might last? If it is nearly spent then we can wait it out and see if there is a key to that blasted door."
Niobe pauses as she considers once again the fact that opening the door must have set off the trap. She goes with the feeling that she should tell the others.
"I know I didn't miss any traps - inspite of that spell," Niobe says defensively, "I believe that it was set off by just opening the door. Using a conventional key to unlock the door might stop that spell from going off again. We need to search that room better."
The rogue begins to ponder how the heck she missed the portrait and the desk in the first place! She will wait as best she can for the input from all of the others, including Tokun if he has anything he wants to say.
(Search 24, Sense Motive 6, Spot 18; trying to read Tokun's 'emotional register' and to see what reactions he might have had/be having to the effects of the spell. (I am not sure what to roll so I'll try these first).)
Sly and Luke Tuesday January 4th, 2005 5:47:27 AM
"It's alright, Niobe! If you could not see that there was a trap there, then it was not your fault." Sly rises from the floor and let go of Luke, To Firn'gar "That was a very special trap if the best, Err... Lock Smith like Niobe could not detect it. That Wizard had higher learning than I, What do you think? the more I see these little set backs, the more I think my mother was here! She was a Elven Wizard. Well gang what do you think!"
Luke gets to his feet, and start to strech.
Firn'gaer d20+17=32 d20+19=24 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 9:54:40 AM
As the pain subsides, Firn'gaer remains motionless on the cold ground. A slight whimper can be faintly heard from the wizard. Rufus, too, seems to have recovered and moves over to his master. Nosing his way into the folds of Firn'gaer's robe, Rufus curls into a ball. It appears the rat didn't take the spell well either.
As Peerimus begins to look him over for physical wounds, "Get away..." Firn'gaer says softly as his whimpers stop. "Get away!" he says more forceful. "GET AWAY!!!"
For a long moment he just lies there, silent, until he picks himself up. Kneeling he says, "I do know the magic, but..." He pauses, "I would guess no longer than a few hours once it's been activated, but it would really depend on the strength of the magic. It would be the same for my chance to defeat the magic. The stronger it is the less chance I'll have."
"Well, my dear rogue." He says very melancholy to Niobe. "If you didn't miss it then it could be a permanent effect. Either way I suggest we wait a few hours first...then if that doesn't work then I'll take my shot."
[Arcane Knowledge DC32, Spellcraft DC24]
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+13=32 d20+8=22 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 4:24:10 PM
Peerimus ignores the wizard and finishes what he was doing. He does not respond more than dodging any flailing hands sent his direction and a sharp look to Yorrick [Handle animal 32]keeps the kodiak back. Satisfied there is no injury beyond what all are still feeling he slowly stands to find a spot on one of the benches against the wall, sitting with an exhalation of effort.
The plan seems to be set forth, wait for the spell to subside and then Firn'gaer will attempt to dispel it. Peerimus closes his burning eyes and tries to push the pain from his mind, reaching back to the green forests of home and the smell of maple and honey. [Will 22]
Savin Tuesday January 4th, 2005 7:12:26 PM
Savin wonders at the reactions of some to the pain. Obviously their training is lacking somewhere. He remembers back to his early days when the masters taught him about discipline.
He would have to squat in a painful stance for hours without let up. If he moved, the monks would beat him with can swords. Yes the pain from the spell was unpleasant but not unbearable.
Savin decides that know isn't the time for a lecture but he does say, "Do we want to wait that long? We might have alerted any guards and they could be preparing defenses even as we speak."
Savin pauses for a minute and then says, "Though I doubt that is the case. This place has the feel of long desertion with only magical guardians and spells left behind."
Questions Questions Questions (DM/Al) Tuesday January 4th, 2005 9:44:43 PM
Niobe scrutinizes Tokun's face. He's young. The fuzz of a future beard barely touches his face. When he does not believe that he is being watched lines of strain show upon his face; pinched around the eyes, clenched at the sides of the jaws. Niobe searches his face as he looks back at her. Niobe finds herself greeted by a shy smile. But in the young man's dark eyes she sees emotions deep and burning. What is she to makes of this? How to proceed? Alas, greater heed to the emotions of others might have given her more insight.
The rogue, turns her attention to more practical matters. She asks Firn'gaer if the spell might yet be spent. And she ponders as to whether the use of the key might deactivate the trap.
Sly too consults Firn'gaer. His mother was through here. It is the lead to follow.
More and more, the group finds themselves leaning on the newcomer for his experience with things of a magical nature. While finally suffering Peerimus to examine his wounds, Firn'gaer correctly conjectures that the spell may last for hours. And he speculates that it may be a permanent effect. Though, despite Niobe's insistence that she did not miss the trap, all of the lore regarding such spells indicates that they would be extremely hard to find were they to be hidden.
Peerimus finishes examining Firn'gaer an finds no physical ills. He sits back to find solace in his connection with the green forests of home. The image is within his mind, there are few things in the Wold that can steal that. However, also there, is the thought that he is underground. Bare rock surrounds him. Here, nothing grows.
Savin quesitons the wisdom of rest at a time like this. He voices the opinion that the trap may have alerted guards as well. Then he reverses himself, looking down the length of the empty room.
When will it be safe to approach the door once again? How would one know? Would an hour's rest be wise? How large is the influence of the pain spell? Could they even make their way around it within the confines of this long 40 foot wide room? Where are Sly and Jason's relatives? Who or What has taken them? What's with Tokun? And what's within the small room?
Niobe d20+7=20 d20+5=13 d20+6=13 d20+6=10 d20+11=25 d20+12=28 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 5:41:41 AM
Niobe isn't so sure about waiting for a long periode either, normally when something like that happens she would have left the area quickly. She doesn't believe that there are any conventional guards left around here.
Niobe stands up and stretches out her aching muscles. In the back of her mind she struggles with what do to about her 'emotional entanglements'. She won't be able to focus on those issues until this 'tortur room' one is settled.
"I have a suggestion gentlemen. I will try to go back into that room and check the desk and the portrait. I also suggest that only two of us try to look for any keys, any more than that and it will be a mess."
Niobe looks back into the room they just 'escaped' from and isn't too thrilled about going back into it. She puts it down to 'necessary evils'.
"I guess I will leave it up to you all to nominate who else helps out? Though I would say that anyone who relies on spells should maybe wait?"
Niobe hopes she didn't offend any of the spellcasters with her comment, but she figures that if anyone can can make heads or tails from all of this spell-stuff it is them.
Niobe approaches the spell-effected area slowly, this way she can back out of it (she hopes) as soon as she feels the effect. Once someone either volunteers or is nominated she will brace herself and enter the room. She heads for the area that the desk and portrait are supposed to be.
If she makes it to the desk and portrait without too much difficulty she will immediately begin her 'thiefly rtiual' of searching for traps and hidden compartments, opening locks and such.
If Niobe finds anything she will hopefully be able to disable any traps and open any locks? (Search 13, Spot 13, Listen 10, Disable Device 25, Open Lock 28)
(Fortitude 20) (Search 13, Spot 13, Listen 10, Disable Device 25, Open Lock 28) ((I assume that there is still a - 4 to all ability checks.))
Firn'gaer d20+10=30 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 12:50:59 PM
"Savin, you are more than welcome to go back in or anyone else for that matter. The spell will effect you again as well as any guards that might arrive while we wait. Also, the effects of the spell..." He says massaging his temples, "...Is still in effect and will be for sometime. I understand your anxious to find your family, but caution is called for in this instance. If I am to counter the magic, I'll need to be at full strength or it will be a waste of time."
"If the room was the size you say, then the spells effect will encompass the whole room." He says to Niobe. "Patience, we will deal with the effect in due time. Did you notice where the symbol was inscribed?"
[Will save DC30]
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday January 5th, 2005 4:49:23 PM
The druid is about to say something to Niobe as she moves off, but perhaps it is better to learn some lessons first hand
Peerimus remains where he is and refocuses his attentention towards the door incase he is needed.
Yorrick remains seated in front of him.
Sly and Luke Wednesday January 5th, 2005 4:55:46 PM
"Your right, Firn'gaer! I was a little rash by dashing in there head long. I will wait until it is safe." Then he turns to Niobe, "Don't go in just yet, You don't want to worry Takum do you??"
Luke stands and clean himself off.
After A Time (DM/Al) Wednesday January 5th, 2005 9:32:26 PM
Niobe stands and proposes a return to the small room with the desk. The desk and painting require scrutiny. She suggests a volunteer join her in the search for a key to the door.
Firn'gaer massages his temples and, for the benefit of those who do not take well to subtler hints, repeats in plainer terms that the pain spell is still in effect. With thoughts of the challenge awaiting him, the wizard inquires as to whether Niobe had noted the location of the glyph responsible for the party's current state.
Peerimus also looks dubious of the idea of returning to the door so early. He remains where he is with a keen eye to any trouble that might manifest.
Sly adds to the general opinion with a warning. He also adds a comment that reveals that others in the party are following the interaction between Niobe and Tokun with interest, if not with concern.
Still, Niobe moves down the room none the less. Cautiously she edges back toward the door. The pain slams into the rogue like a physical force. Tokun leaps up from his seat and rushes to her. But Niobe bears up under the assault and leaps back on her own.
Firn'gaer was correct. Yet, how else would one find out if the spell has dropped or not?
How does one measure the passage of time in a place with no window to the sun? And yet, unmeasured, time passes none the less. The spell is tested again, with painful results. And again, and yet again at different times. If the full cycle of the day were to be divided into 24 parts, then over one and a half of those would have passed before the area is approached, and, with much relief ... nothing happens.
Unfortunately, the door is again closed. Though, most likely, no longer locked.
OoC: Did you wish to search the room? At least one of the cabinets lies outside the influence of the area of pain.
Savin Wednesday January 5th, 2005 10:35:20 PM
Savin is about to volunteer to go with Niobe when she heads off on her own. He rushes to the limit of the spell and then says, "Are you alright?" He is willing to brave the pain but only will do so if she gets into trouble.
Niobe d20+9=23 d20+10=30 d20+15=31 d20+16=17 d20+16=34 Thursday January 6th, 2005 1:18:00 AM
Niobe looks over at Savin, she sucks in a breath of air in a hiss and then grins.
"I am fine, thank you."
Then she adds under her breath, "not one of my better ideas."
"Firn'gaer, I did not see any glyphs. None, not one. Sorry."
Niobe does her level best to ignore Sly's comment for the mean time. Of course she doesn't want anyone to worry.
The rogue stands just at the edge of the spell area and stares defiantly into the room. She is also tapping her fingers on her folded arms as she thinks. Finally she turns on her heel and heads towards the other end of the room.
Niobe scrutinizes all of the gnomish signs again. Against hope she is trying to see if there are any clues to that wretched room among the signs. She will probably go from sign to sign considering them for an hour or so.
After this she will very carefully check the cabinets one after another (any that she can get to without having to endure the spell). She is of course looking for new traps; including trying to look for glyphs that look magical in nature. If everything seems safe enough she will try and open the locks again.
Niobe is tired of just waiting and doing nothing so anything short of physical restraint will most likely not keep her from messing with the cabinets (or minimum the one that is available).
Undoubtably Niobe is more than likely not entirely left to her own devices as she works?
If she isn't stopped she will try to open the stubborn lock again. While doing her rounds with the signs she reads half out loud to herself, but that is the only talking she will do - unless spoken to of course.
(Search 23, Spot 30 (nat 20), Disable Device 31, Open Lock 17; retry Open Lock 34)
Sly and Luke Thursday January 6th, 2005 8:38:42 AM
Sly paces back and forth, waiting to go into that painful room. Sly has to walk or he'll grow restless, Sly watches the going on of every one, then his eyes goes to the big opening at the end of this room.
He'll look inside, just to be nosey.
Luke takes the walking with Sly, Because in doing so his bones feel better, But when Sly peek into the big opening, The Dog ask Sly "Now What?"
Firn'gaer Thursday January 6th, 2005 9:36:55 AM
"Thanks, Niobe." He says to his female companion. "I was hoping you'd see something. My target needs to be the spell itself for any chance of success." He continues with a slight tone of disappointment in his voice.
"Sly...Do you have any scrying spells in your book?" He say standing and approaching the elf. "I unfortunately don't."
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Sly and Luke Thursday January 6th, 2005 2:37:57 PM
"What do you mean a Scrying Spell? I don't know. Maybe I know the spell in another name??" ask Sly.
Jason of Aisildur Thursday January 6th, 2005 7:40:28 PM
Jason looks about, and after much frustration with the area, decides to leave its exploration to those better apt for it. He does, however, scan the area to see if Domi will reveal to him the presence of any evil about. Once this is done, he will busy himself helping in what everway anyone needs him.
OOC: Detect Evil
Savin Thursday January 6th, 2005 9:00:22 PM
After the spell departs, Rigging will head over to the door and try to find the symbol that set it off. He wants to be able to recognize it in the future.
The Touch of Evil (DM/Al) Thursday January 6th, 2005 9:14:48 PM
The Hands Fighting Man comes to The Woman's aide as well, and Tokun lowers his head in deference to one of the Magic Ones. He backs away with a sullen look upon his face.
While waiting, Niobe examines the signs again. They say nothing more than they said before. She reads them aloud:
"WARNING! Unprotected area ahead. Exit without the proper equipment can result in cold related injury or death."
"WARNING! This is a Security Area. Cabinets are Locked and Trapped. NO STEALING. You know who you are!"
She examines the cabinets. She finds nothing unusual. This, by itself, would seem fairly safe. Unless one believes the signs.
When the area of pain is declared free, there is little to stop her from proceeding to the door again to deal with the stubborn lock. She finds, however, that the door is not locked. This makes sense as she had unlocked it earlier. The door, though, is once again closed, Shiraz having closed it earlier.
Sly is restless, and follows Niobe after the pain has cleared. He passes the door and continues toward the dark opening at the end of the room. Unlike this room which is lit by spots of permanent light, the way beyond is pitch black. It is only 15 feet wide. And, perhaps it is the depth of the darkness, but it feels to Sly as though it goes on for a very long ways.
Firn'gaer puzzles over how to disable the Symbol of Pain. How can one disable it if one does not know exactly where it is? He asks Sly if he might have a scrying spell. And, unfortunately, Sly does not know what he is referring to.
Jason, like Sly, is anxious to move on. The feeling of impotence, especially when his adopted parents seem so close, is maddening. In hopes that it may provide some small modicum of help, he draws a symbol of Domi the Protector and channels the power of the god to root out the presence of evil.
Slowly, and with care given to a job done correctly, the paladin directs the focus of the holy symbol over the walls, the benches, the cabinets. When Jason arrives at the door to the small room, he stops. There is evil here. Further study reveals a dispersed miasma of evil with a single aura toward the fore. A moment more of focus narrows the aura to the left of the doorknob in the place where the bolt would enter striking plate. The aura is strong.
Jason moves on from there. Feeling for the aura beyond the door. The evil is dim, less than faint. And, perhaps, that is the reason the paladin is taken by surprise. Though faint, the psychic stench of the evil overwhelms the paladin's senses. It strikes him like a wall. Jason is stunned, and his connection with the evil drops.
Savin, unaware of the paladin's discovery, eyes the closed door, searching for the origin of the pain. He sees nothing but an ordinary closed door. Finding such things must be the province of rogues and wizards.
Jason of Aisildur Friday January 7th, 2005 2:22:47 PM
Jason shakes himself to his senses.
"Niobe. There is a very strong evil located not within the knob or its mechanism, but within the bolt plate. There is something..." Woozy, the paladin leans against a nearby wall.
"There is something else beyond the door. It too is evil, but the sensation I got from it, while faint, has left me disoriented." The paladin then slumps down the wall, leaving himself seated on the ground for the moment.
Niobe Friday January 7th, 2005 5:22:45 PM
Niobe looks surprised at what Jason has to say.
"Oh hell. When the door gets opened the spell will probably go off again."
Niobe mutters with some righteous anger in her voice.
"Firn'gaer, Jason says he felt something evil within the boltplate. You could try that spell of yours there. I certainly won't be opening that door until something has been tried to remove that spell."
Niobe crouches down by Jason, "are you going to be alright Jason?"
Niobe half turns and looks at the others, "I guess we wait to see what Firn'gaer can do."
Niobe stands up again and steps away from both Jason and the door. She glances over at Tokun and sees his sullen look. She gives him an open, questioning look briefly. Then begins the next wait. Tapping her foot slowly indicating loss of patience with this gods awful door.
Peerimus and Yorrick Friday January 7th, 2005 6:39:26 PM
Peerimus watches everything from the fall side of the room tehn the Symbol trapped door.
"If the plate is the issue perhaps we could move through the door without opening. If everything but the section of door that covers teh plate is removed, ti should permit enough room to utilize the door without revealing the symbol."
"Can anyone think of a sure method to accomplish this"
OoC: The door made of individual planks?
Savin Friday January 7th, 2005 7:20:36 PM
Savin will listen to the discussion and say, "Can a nonmagical item be evil? Or is the evil on the other side of the door? Maybe someone should detect magic on the door. That might help."
Sly snd Luke Saturday January 8th, 2005 9:58:13 AM
Sly will look cast Detect Magic on the door.
Luke look to Sly asking,"Evil??"
Firn'gaer Sunday January 9th, 2005 11:50:56 AM
"Unfortunately, my friends, I need to see the symbol to effect it. Just suspecting isn't enough. If it is in the door latch, then I think we make a opening in the door without having to actually open the door." he says. "I fear there may be more and I have a finite magical ability. So, if we can do so without using magic I would like to try that first."
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Putting Heads Together (DM/Al) Sunday January 9th, 2005 8:15:05 PM
With information from Jason, Niobe correctly assesses the function and placement of the trap. She turns to Firn'gaer and his magic to dispel the thing so they can get on to the room beyond. Unfortunately, Firn'gaer explains, magic doesn't quite work that way. He waits for someone to try a non-magical solution first. After all, though magic in nature, it is still, after all, a trap.
Peerimus stands at a safe distance and asks if the door might somehow be cleared without disturbing the lock mechanism. The door appears to be a seamless slab of wood. As a druid he might command such material. But, then again, who would expect wood after the plains of Ice Vein?
Savin seems more concerned about the evil, and asks about the nature of such. He proposes a spell that would reveal the presence of magic. Sly is obliging as it just so happens that he prepared for such a situation this morning. He intones the spell and then directs his hands towards the door. Suddenly the world is awash with color and light as auras appear in the cone formed by his hands.
After a moment's concentration, the light separates and pulls into locations and layers. There seem to be two auras. No. Three perhaps. Four? Or only two? In the swirl of magic it is difficult to put a finger on exactly what is what. The thing that is clear, however, is that left of the doorknob is a small aura of overwhelming strength. And all around, swimming in the air, is a dim residual aura that indicates something very powerful passed through here at some time in the last six days or so.
OoC Spellcraft Check of the following DC's reveals the schools of magic that each belongs to. Next to Doorknob: DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Necromancy} In the Air: DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Mostly Necromancy but tinges of other schools as well}
Sly and Luke Monday January 10th, 2005 8:45:16 AM
Sly stare at the magic he just produced, "Oh! I have to study my magic more closely, Firn'gaer have you ever seen such a asortment of auras before?"
Luke also stares at his masters magic, "WOW!"
Niobe Monday January 10th, 2005 10:46:29 AM
Niobe stays clear of the door as she waits for the mages to figure the aura puzzle out.
She has only one new suggestion for possibly opening the door.
"We could try and take the door off of its hinges..." then she decides to add dryly, "or we could open the door, set off the spell again."
Peerimus and Yorrick Monday January 10th, 2005 5:16:49 PM
Peerimus regards the solid door and his brow furrows a bit. As a single piece it would be more difficult, but perhaps not impossible.
"A controlled fire should be able to dstroy the hinge side only, leaving the plate and symbol covered. Another thought is to raise the door with fire and then Firn'gaer will be able to place his dispel magic with accuracy."
Savin Monday January 10th, 2005 5:44:39 PM
Savin will pace around looking at the room. He will leave the mystery of the door to the mages and spellusers, ready to pull them from the fire when they stumble.
He will look at the different signs not understanding them but asking, "So this was once a gnomes home? Can we expect a lot of devilish traps and illusions?"
The First Move (DM/Al) Monday January 10th, 2005 9:43:50 PM
More ideas are brainstormed. One of which is to simply open the door again. The pain, though bad, had not permanent effect. In fact, though the memory of the pain lingers, the effects themselves have passed. (Skills and Attacks are back to normal.)
As the Hands Fighting Man walks away to look at the stick drawings on the walls, Tokun, once again, takes up a position near the Woman.
OoC: Search and Disable for the trap are both a DC30 each.
Niobe d20+9=16 d20+9=27 Tuesday January 11th, 2005 5:59:24 AM
Niobe answers part of Savin's question, "the signs are gnomish, so it could be a safe bet to say that this is; or was, a gnomish hidey-hole."
Niobe idly searches for the trap that Jason mentioned, but she fails to see anything. Needless to say Niobe doesn't push her luck with the door.
She walks away from it and paces back and forth for a bit. Then she scrutinizes the door again (lock area, bolt plate and such, plus the hinges). She draws a blank again, and nearly screams in frustration.
This time she leaves this room and goes to one of the benches, throws herself down on it with her back resting against the wall and stares intently at the ceiling. Niobe's less than ifinite patience is wearing thin.
She doesn't talk to anyone right yet because she is upset with herself. She doesn't want to start ranting about gnomish locks, since she has some dignity to maintain. Niobe does look frustrated though.
(search I: 16, search II: 27)
Sly and Luke Tuesday January 11th, 2005 6:07:40 AM
"Fun'gaur, I have a Fire Ball spell, But how much control is another question. I can conjer up to three Fire Ball at one, but they usally burst into flames. My question will it smask the hinges or just set off that trap again? What do you think my friend?" ask Sly.
Luke look toward the other wizard "Yes?" he ask.
Firn'gaer Tuesday January 11th, 2005 9:20:19 AM
"Sly, a fireball is not the answer. It's uncontrollable, unfortunately." He says.
He turns to Niobe, "I don't mean to sound rude, Niobe, but can you locate the trap. I'm just asking because at this point we're just guessing at where exactly the symbol is at. Being a trap, I really defer to you in these matters. I can deal with magic...but I'll go with what suggestions anyone can come up with. If there is no immediate danger inside, we could just set off the trap and go through?" The last sentence sounds more like a quiestion than a statement. "Get to the other side let the effect subside and continue?" He says again in the same tone looking around at the others.
[Spellcraft 29, take 10]
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Savin Tuesday January 11th, 2005 9:59:26 PM
Savin looks at his friends and says, "Well we have been sitting here for quite a while and what have we discovered? We know that the door is trapped but not where or how? We know that their is some evil connected with the other side of the door or the door itself. I am assuming that we are only dealing with physical and magical traps.
We have found golems and high level spells, but no people or at least living people. Since we have been undisturbed, I am guessing that the people are gone. I think we are in some kind of ruin. It was inhabited by strong spellusers but has since been abandoned.
I am willing to brave the door. I think I should do it alone. If I get into trouble, only I will be affected and you can bail me out. My reflexes and training allows me to avoid most things. Please move back and I will open the door."
Questions, Doubts and Frustration (DM/Al) Tuesday January 11th, 2005 10:09:08 PM
Tokun follows The Woman. She lies down on one of the low wooden benches. He sits on the floor next to her.
She is upset in a way he has never seen women in his tribe upset. But, then again, these are the Magic Ones. They are like nothing he has ever seen in his life as well.
Tokun's voice is kind, yet soft and hesitant. "Niah pk Fhashlah," he says to Niobe.
Sly proposes a drastic solution. Firn'gaer objects. He considers what he knows about traps and The Craft. It is reasonably well known that spells are commissioned for traps with requests that they reset themselves. Could this be one of those? It is certainly of the type that would. Could it be set upon some physical trigger, such as the bolt leaving the striking plate with out the use of the key? Most certainly. Could it be set for proximity? Yes to that as well. But why? And why pain and not death? And, if the magical component were triggered by the door mechanism, would it have reset itself had the door not been closed again?
The party is stalled. They sits, lay, stand, and walk about the benches and low cabinets in the long dimly lit room.
OoC: BTW, The rules do allow you to Take 20 on both Search and Open Lock.
Sly and Luke Wednesday January 12th, 2005 4:34:58 AM
"Well then! How about acid on the hinges?" Sly ask Fun'gaer, then he catches what Savin just said, and look like the monk is going in. "Hold it, Savin! I want to tie a rope around your waist! So if you fall in the throws of Pain. We can pull you out." Sly tells Savin.
Luke goes to Tokum, "Name Niobe!"
Niobe d20+4=19 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 6:46:02 AM
Niobe hears Tokun's words but what he is actually saying eludes her. She is a little surprised at the tone though. The words being beyond her knowledge she mulls over the tone and the hesitancy he has used (Sense Motive 19).
She was frankly expecting everyone to be as frustrated and upset with her as she is with herself. Not for the first or last time she wishes that Ilsidur had a way of asking Tokun if he knew any other languages, than just his Mother Tongue. He doesn't know gnomish it seems...
Feeling far calmer than for a few minutes ago Niobe looks over at Tokun and half-smiles. She doesn't know what to say, but she seems pleased that he said something nice to her.
Niobe guesses that he must have said something along the lines of 'we all have bad days', or 'you did your best', but then again he could had said something vastly different with her being none the wiser.
When Luke comes over and tells Tokun that her name is Niobe. She leans over and scratches Luke behind the ears, and laughs merrily at Luke's comment.
"Luke, maybe he is too polite to use first names?" She scratches behind Luke's ears a little bit more before stopping, and sitting back again.
Suddenly Niobe has a bright idea; she smiles gleefully,
"Wait a minute..."
"Firn'gaer, Sly, can you magically freeze the lock? That might make the metal brittle and then we can shatter it, possibly without removing the bolt from the boltplate. Then the trap shouldn't go off."
Niobe actually seems excited again, thankfully she isn't the type to gesture wildly when being enthusiastic about something. This idea might work, Niobe still feels that she has no chance to figure out this trap puzzle.
She smiles enigmatically at Tokun. It may have been her thinking about his people, and all the ice and cold that gave her the idea to freeze the bolt?
(Sense Motive 19)
((Taking 20 on Open Lock and Disable Device would beat the DC 30, but Niobe cannot succeed at a Search with a DC 30 even with taking 20 - the best she can get is a 29!))
Firn'gaer Wednesday January 12th, 2005 10:19:55 AM
Firn'gaer listens to options and decides to find something to sit on. In this case his bottom suffices. "No, Sly I don't think destroying the hinges will be the answer." He says lifting Rufus out of his warm place in the folds of the wizard's robe.
I think they are missing your point. Rufus says to Firn'gaer.
"I know." He says back to Rufus.
He watches the little scenes unfold between their young guide, Niobe and Savin. Quite an interesting group he's found himself with he thinks to himself.
You know it's cold out here.
"I know"
Well, can you put me back?
"I'm sorry."
"Nope, can't freeze the locks. I didn't prepare any freezing spells here in the cold tundra." He says while putting Rufus back into the folds of his robe. "Low-tech." He says. "That's going to have to be the answer here. I don't want to expend a great deal of resources without knowing what's deeper in this place."
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday January 12th, 2005 10:51:05 AM
Peerimus notes the interaction bewtween Niobe and Tokun with growing concern. It is going to get him killed if she continues this.
Savin snaps him out of thought before he can put it to action and he quickly finds himself agreeing. "I agree with Savin, too much time has passed for no one to come."
Peerimus's voice turns rather cold and matter of factly as he lets his concern over Niobe and Tokun spill in a different direction "Traps and wards that do not kill are designed to be investigated and no one has. Pain is Father's way of letting you know you are not dead. Take the rope and open the Savin."
"Give room" Peerimus moves to as far as the rope will reach. Assuming 50' rope it would be about 43' with 3.5 tying on peerimus and savin.
Peerimus wraps the other end about his waist and gets ready to pull Savin out of a mess
Niobe (illegal 2nd post, I couldn't help myself this time!) Wednesday January 12th, 2005 4:37:19 PM
Niobe glances askance at Peerimus. She just has to make a comment to his statement. She speaks in a level matter-of-fact tone of voice.
"From what I found there is no "trap"; per say. It's a spell. - I don't do spells. - Needless to say; I didn't exactly see you do anything particularly constructive to figure out the door problem. There is no need to critize other people for making an effort, no matter how unsuccessful it might have been."
((Think slightly confrontational, not offensive or intentionally insulting for the way Niobe says this.))
((I hope I don't offend you Daniel with this post. If I do then I am very sorry.))
Taking One For The Gipper (DM/Al) Wednesday January 12th, 2005 9:57:51 PM
OoC: to move this along, I'm going to make the rather large assumption that you go forward with this plan.
Niobe gazes at the young barbarian, seeking to divine from his demeanor what she cannot from his words. His look, and the tone of his voice do indeed seem very much intended to console her, or to lift her spirits. Tokun's hesitation ... Niobe, from having been young herself at one time, might guess that it was the bashful confusion of inexperienced youth faced with a person of possibly forbidden attraction.
It certainly smells that way to Luke too.
Niobe proposes freezing the lock. Firn'gaer, however, confesses to not having prepared a spell of cold. And why indeed would one wish to in a land filled with cold? Firn'gaer, followed by Peerimus, concur with Savin's plan. Sly adds a rope to the mix, and everyone pulls back past the boundaries that had previously proven to be safe. Savin positions himself at the door, the rope tied about his waist. Peerimus a bit over forty feet away connected to Savin by the rope. The monk reaches for the knob, and with a swift turn flings open the door.
If there had been any doubt that the trap had reset itself that doubt is now dispeled as electifying pain decends upon both Savin and Peerimus. The door, however, is once again open. Time passes, and, eventually, the way is clear.
OoC: It was DC20 to hold up under the pain, if you'd like to roleplay it. -4 to Skill Checks and Attacks for the next hour for Peerimus and Savin.
Savin d20+10=24 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 10:20:14 PM
Savin opens the door and the pain washes over him. He is expecting it this time and is able to control it. He looks for a way to wedge open the door and does so if a means is available.
He then staggers back to the others and wipes the sweat off his brow, "Yep this is some powerful magic but we should be able to get through now."
dc 24 to control the pain
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+10=13 d20+10=13 Thursday January 13th, 2005 9:31:23 AM
Peerimus cocks his head slightly as he oft does when confused or thinking overly hard as Niobe speaks. But rather than enter a arguement of symantics over what constitutes a trap in his mind, he does the wiser thing and simply does not respond.
Turning his attention back to the sure to be unpleasant experience at hand, he tries to brace himself for the opening of the door. [Fort 13] and fails miserably.
As peerimus takes a double knee drop to the floor, he plants his chest over his thighs and his forehead to the cool stone, hands clasped and laced behind his neck.
Yorrick is soon right next to him with a wall shakeing bellow and tries to help. [if he needs to save he too fails]
Firn'gaer d20+9=28 Thursday January 13th, 2005 3:38:15 PM
The trap is set-off again and Firn'gaer is again subjected to intense pain the like of which he's felt only once before. His knees buckle, but he catches himself. He sees the druid and his bear companion succub to the effects of the spell.
Damn, there's no way to take Yorrick through. He's too heavy.
Firn'gaer moves over to Peerimus and tries to help the druid endure the pain. "Close the door." he says to Savin. "Yorrick isn't moving and we can't move him. We'll have to try again later."
[Fort Save DC28]
Active Spells extended endure elements -- 24 hours (in Ice Veins) extended mage armor -- 18 hours extended see invisibility -- 3 hours
3 -- deep slumber, dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt
4 -- black tentacles, empowered scorching ray, polymorph
5 -- telekinesis#, wall of force
Niobe Thursday January 13th, 2005 4:19:36 PM "No! Savin, don't you dare close that door!! That will reset the spell!"
Niobe calls out immediately after Firn'gaer says to close the door. She sounds desparate for Savin not to close the door.
"I will cover that open door for as long as necessary with my bow! Just please do not close the door again!"
She readies her bow for the watch while the spell afflicted people get away from the spell effect area and rest. Niobe moves as close to the affected area as she can without getting caught up in it.
Ilsidur Thursday January 13th, 2005 7:56:50 PM
The cleric steps forward and says, "There may be another way to bypass the door. I can move myself and up to three others (or only two, if Shiraz is one of them) magically to the other side of the door. After the room has been explored, I can move us magically back again. Also, I can try to dispell the magic that created the symbol spell. Just let me know which one you prefer."
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