A Visitor [DM Jerry] Thursday January 13th, 2005 11:02:31 AM
Athalorn, floating on the breeze, is suddenly startled when a much larger flying creature appears just above him with a loud popping sound.
Looking up, he sees that it is a enormous Golden Dragon! It gleams in the sun, blinding him for a moment.
"GREETINGS SMALL ONE! COME!"
Its voice is deep and powerful, resonating with such low frequencies that Athalorn can feel it bouncing off his hollow bones.
The dragon dives, spinning--creating a vortex of air that sucks both Athalorn and Glannath down after it.
Down below, the rest of the party quickly learns that a legendary beast is bearing down on them. Almost before one can react, it lands.
"SALUTATIONS! I BEAR A MESSAGE!"
::POP::
A message appears, floating in the air before the dragon.
It reads:
----------
Emerald Talons,
Your presence is needed and requested at the Gold Dragon Castle. We will be having a breakfast tomorrow and would like you to attend it. We will send a method of transportation just before dawn. Please be ready and attend, as we will begin promptly at dawn. It would be best if your entire group can attend. Thank you and look forward to seeing you.
Don't just do your best... win,
Valdor
-----------
The dragon speaks again:
"I AWAIT YOUR ACCEPTANCE. THEN I DEPART."
K'Nara d20=19 Thursday January 13th, 2005 11:34:15 AM
The tall redhead blinks.
"NOW? He's GOT to be kidding..!" she says, then frowns. K'Nara begins using her fingers to count, obviously trying to work things through in her mind. (OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check of 19 versus a DC of 15.)
"Given their access to magic," she announces out loud, "I think we can probably actually go and see what the Gold Dragons want without it screwing up our race to Blackshadow Hall..."
DM OOC: anyone making an Intelligence check versus DC15 can confirm K'Nara's suppostion: although it will interrupt the current mission a bit, a visit to the Gold Dragons will not jeapordize the Talons' ability to try to beat the thieves to their sanctuary.
Brother Bertram Thursday January 13th, 2005 1:40:35 PM
Bertram turns to K'nara, "I have heard nothing but good things about The Gold Dragons, Friend K'nara, but so help me if they act like that Tine vermin......" Bertram trails off, shrugs, and goes back to making sure everyone's wounds are treated.
Ingrge d20+7=17 Thursday January 13th, 2005 5:13:13 PM
Ingrge casts a detect magic from a scroll, or two (whatever is needed) and checks out the other two giants.
Jumping a bit at the appearance and bellow of the Dragon, Ingrge recovers quickly nad bows his head in respect and greeting to the Gold beauty.
Ingrge thinks a bit and too aggress with K'nara's statement, "but you know even if we don't catch up to them its ok. They might then assume that were stopped or turned back or got lost and that might give us the advantage of surprise."
"You know I would love to see the Golds again. I would be willing to bet that Valdor can out eat both Gunther and Bertram together."
Turning to Gunther he continues. "And I expect that you will be able to luxuriate in a HOT bath."
Lian Thursday January 13th, 2005 7:31:02 PM
The monk raises an eyebrow. "Oh, sure, he shows up after the battle." He grins. "Well, seems our presence is required." He brushes himself off and shakes his head.
Athalorn (Sub Jay B) Thursday January 13th, 2005 7:32:26 PM
The druid dives in landing on a nearby branch and listens to the request.
Figment (Sub Jay B) Thursday January 13th, 2005 7:35:32 PM
"The Gold Dragons do certainly have interesting timing, don't they Lian." He says, looking at the monk. The mage looks around to see if there is any loot they've missed.
Milo Thursday January 13th, 2005 8:10:59 PM
Milo stands with a look on his face like he is fit to be tied,"But... they... she... won't... Ah forget it." The exasperated halfling looks longingly at the road to Blackshadow Hall, then at the dead giants, and throws his hands up, "Whatever!"
Gunther Thursday January 13th, 2005 11:28:26 PM
Shocked at the arrival of the gold dragon, Gunther's jaw drops at the invitation to meet with the Gold Dragons. Then, as if the words have finally sunk in, the warrior spits out a stream of profanity in orcish. "Vell, dat's just lovely. Von of de most important meetings of my life and I have to go smelling like someting de pander drug up." Kicking the dirt in front of him, Gunther fumes for a few moments.
Ingrge's promise of a hot bath lessens Gunther's frustration a little, and he does his best to wipe Shaggy's blood from his sword and armor. Looking over at K'nara, Gunther does voice one concern. "Von't does giants be looking for dere king?? Do you tink it is safe to stay here until de morning?"
Olana Friday January 14th, 2005 12:40:18 AM
The dragon's arrival coincides with Olana still stewing in her own juices. The huge creature has the effect of throwing a cold bucket of water all over her ire, and she stands there looking stupid, her usual elven graces completely absent.
"What?" she says afterwards. "We have to go where?"
The word 'bath' registers somewhere in her mind, and she looks down at herself and winces.
Wrapping Up Loose Ends - DM Donna d20=20 Friday January 14th, 2005 6:37:04 AM
"The Tines were a good organization--before Tremaine lost his mind..." K'Nara points out to Bertram, then frowns a bit, having been reminded of the rather suspicious circumstances under which the seasoned leader of the secret group seemed to have lost his grip on reality.
Ingrge needs to use only one spell for the two remaining giant bodies, as they died fairly close together. The weapon mage sees both of the ex-giants' great swords glow strongly under the effect of the Detect Magic. Both of the giants also have oversized belt pouches that hold about 1000gp each.
As Athalorn listens, Figment recalls something about the recent history of the Fireheight Clan:
There had been a row amongst the clan members because one particularly greedy individual had been TOO greedy, so he had been expelled from the main clan, along with his brother and a younger follower of his. The expulsed giant had insisted upon declaring himself the "King" of the three shunned giants before they'd been driven away from their homeland and into Izen.
"The Gold Dragons are known for their hospitality," K'Nara reminds Gunther and Olana, "We will, no doubt, be given the chance to have a bath before our meal."
DM OOC: the treasure discovered so far are the magic great swords (3 of them), the chain mail (magic, too), the two rings Gratbelch was wearing and the total of about 4800gp between the three giants.
"So we are agreed..?" K'Nara asks the party, trying to confirm everyone's opinion. "We will accept this invitation from the Gold Dragons..?"
Another DM OOC: I wasn't aware that Athalorn was in bird form--when did that happen? Or has our feral druid taken to diving onto branches while he's human? ;)
Gunther Friday January 14th, 2005 8:19:19 AM
The warrior is relieved to here that there will be no giant's searching for their king while the Talon's try and rest. Oh sure, there were a host of other big, nasty things out there possibly hunting them down, but at least their weren't giants.
Gunther smiles at K'nara's assurances. He wasn't exactly the bathing kind, but anything was preferable to this stench. He nods his acceptance of the meeting with the Gold Dragons and then moves downwind from his friends and finds a place amoung the boulders to sit down and begin cleaning his equipment.
Athalorn (Sub Jay B) Friday January 14th, 2005 9:12:07 PM
OOC: Athalorn took to his bird form immediately after combat, to see if he could spot any other giants approaching. Wednesday's post.
DM OOC: Ah ha! Must have missed that--thanks for clearing that up.
IC: The druid hops off his branch and lands near K'Nara and takes his humanoid form once more. "I'm ready."
Figment (Sub Jay B) Friday January 14th, 2005 9:13:27 PM
The mage relays his information to the group.
"Yes, their hospitality is reknowned. I'm ready."
Lian Friday January 14th, 2005 9:18:47 PM
The monk looks at the large corpses and then back at K'Nara. "So, what are we going to do about The Triplets here? Let them rot? Doesn't seem right to me. The cooperative one, at least, deserves a burial." "But its your call K'Nara."
Then the monk looks around, then panics a bit. "Friends, where is Falin?!"
K'Nara d20=7 Saturday January 15th, 2005 7:09:38 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons nods acknowledgement as each of the others agrees to attend the breakfast with the Gold Dragons.
"Breakfast is tomorrow." she reminds Lian. "We can bury these guys today and then rest, seeing as there aren't any more of them in the area." The tall redhead turns and addresses the gold dragon.
"The Emerald Talons are pleased and honored to accept the invitation from their friends the Gold Dragons. Give my regards to Valdor...and to Greymalkin, as well." she says to the gleaming drake.
"Falin was vanished by the shaggy one over there..." K'Nara then nods at Shaggy's body while answering Lian's question, "...I have no idea if there's any way we can retrieve him from wherever that giant poofed him to..?"
Anyone with Spellcraft skill can make a check versus DC15 to figure out that Shaggy's magic effect on Falin isn't anything that any of the spellcasters present can reverse. The Talons will probably have to quest for a solution to Falin's disappearance.
Olana Saturday January 15th, 2005 10:32:42 PM
Olana nods her acceptance, but Lian had a point about burial. Time to start digging again. As for Falin - that was something else to add to the list, and the list was getting long.
Brother Bertram Sunday January 16th, 2005 9:48:14 AM
Bertram double checks to make sure each of his companions are healed fully then makes ready for more traveling. He is concerned about Elese but will abide by his companions choices.
Ingrge Sunday January 16th, 2005 6:27:35 PM
Ingrge looks wonderingly after the departing dragon, and then starts fidgeting with his things. " I wonder what the Valdor and the other Golds need or want with us. The first time we met was after we battled next to Joe and Grey when we were first together. The next time was....... you know I really don't remember when it was. I remember Valdor's call and I remember going to the Tower of Saryd and going somewhere. And then ... nothing until we went looking for the Ishgara tree. Yet I know that I fought beside Valdor and some rainbow color haired mage, Nonan or some such from another adventuring group. But I do not remember what or why we were fighting... That is really strange....
Figment (DEH is back) Monday January 17th, 2005 12:56:35 AM
"Should be interesting as always. I learned much from reviewing some of Joe Hand's spellbooks upon our last visit. Such exquisite artistry!". After a moment of reflection, the mage turns to Milo. "You may find this very hard to believe, but I completely agree with you about how we should treat those we meet. I so truly hate killing. We should try to make allies, not more enemies - but Ingrge is quite right that we should in some cases ask questions later. Like, for instance when we meet Elise. No need for words there. Or the HOL - same reason. I had hoped to avoid fighting these guys. There was no reason for this...". He frowns at their failure to avoid the conflict. "We should also make note of their camp so we can come back and look it over. I bet there is more but we have no time to look.".
Cleaning up the Details -- DM Donna Monday January 17th, 2005 6:34:58 AM
The leader of the Emerald Talons knew that whatever the breakfast invitation was truly about, it had to be quite important--after all, she still possessed the magic silver dragon-shaped ear clip through which Greymalkin directed her bladesinger training sessions. If whatever the Golds had to say to the Talons was an ordinary sort of message (or even an urgent one relating to what the Talons were doing in Izen), then Valdor would have used the clip to tell K'Nara whatever his news happened to be.
No--this was something that apparently required the physical presence of the Emerald Talons. It definitely piqued the human bladesinger's interest.
The ex-giants were buried.
The Talons secured their area--finding the cave that the giants had been using to live in the area. Unfortunately, however, the giants had never really been keen on housekeeping...it was messy and didn't have anything else of any value to the party in it.
Athalorn and Bertram heal up anyone that may still need it. Watches are assigned and the Talons rest when it's their turn, replenishing spells and caring for equipment when their time permits.
The panther stays on the fringes of the camp, still not quite tame enough to get much closer.
K'Nara gets up well before dawn and executes her daily ritual of training in the art of the bladesong--while Greymalkin guides her over the ear clip and remains annoyingly, cheerfully silent about why the Gold Dragons want to have the Emerald Talons over for breakfast...
Figment Monday January 17th, 2005 9:39:42 AM
The mage memorizes the maximum number of teleport spells to increase their travel options. Once he awakens he prepares to leave.
The Visitor Returns Monday January 17th, 2005 11:15:09 AM
Early the next morning, just before dawn, the air about the party's location is disturbed once again by the same dragon.
"GOOD MORNING HEROES! CAN I OFFER YOU A RIDE?"
He waits while the camp is put to bed and then lowers his wing for all to climb on. Once comfortable, he takes off.
"HOLD ON! DON'T WANT TO HAVE TO DIVE SUDDENLY TO CATCH ONE OF YOU IN MY TEETH"
His belly rumbles evidently in laughter to what he considers a vast joke.
Once airbourne, he says, "CASTLE COMING UP! PREPARE FOR LANDING!"
How could this be? The group is still in Izen?
Suddenly the Wold around disappears and everyone's ears are popping from the loud sound of reappearance.
Below is Plateau City in early morning.
"I WILL APPROACH INVISIBLY TO AVOID SCARING ANY EARLY RISERS. THIS WILL EXTEND TO YOU. DO NOT MOVE. YOU CAN STILL FEEL ME, THOUGH YOU WILL NOT SEE ME NOR EACH OTHER."
Suddenly the bulk of the dragon....protecting you from the full brunt of the experience of being so high up with out a net is gone!
It is just you....flying. Floating. Unprotected.
Then you are diving. descending fast towards the northern part of town.
The sun rises and a structure ahead gleams golden. A simplistic castle.
Further down. Then landing. A butler type figure is waiting in the doorway for you.
"Welcome. This way please."
He leads you inside the castle and to a large first room on the left.
The Golds and Storms are already present drinking coffee and juices.
A cacophony of voices all say, "WELCOME!"
Ingrge Monday January 17th, 2005 5:03:10 PM We are going to get to ride on a dragon!! Ingrge is almost giddy with anticipation as he springs forward, and after a quick and polite showing of gratitude, is the first upon the Gold Dragon's back.
The ride though quick is the most sensational thing Ingrge has ever done or felt. The coolness of the air as it whips though his hair reminds him of the brief times in his youth when he was happy and plunging 60 feet off off cliffs into the cool mountain ponds for a quick swim.
A contented and relaxed sounding sigh eminates from his lips and suddenly there seems to be a youthfulness about him that none have seen for a hundred years or so.
Even after they disembark there is a light spring to his step and a lilt to his lips. Could it be that the taciturn elf is actually smiling?
Brother Bertram Monday January 17th, 2005 6:54:42 PM
We are going to ride on a dragon??? Bertram is almost sick with dread of the thought of flying on the back of the huge Golden Dragon. He is dead last climbing aboard the noble creature. With a prayer to Domi and Gargul, and any other gods listening, Bertram prepares for the scariest trip of his life. The air whipping through his beard and hair made him think back to the time he was climbing in the mines with his friends and his rope broke, plunging him down the dark shaft until a ledge broke his fall; and his arm. All that is heard from his lips is a prayer to die and the moan of a sailor on his first voyage. Even as they fly the sick dwarf seems to age a hundred years. Even after they disembark there is a stagger to his gait and a greenish cast to his skin. Could it be the normally fearless dwarf is going to faint?
((OOC I couldnt resist Kent))
Milo Monday January 17th, 2005 8:49:10 PM
Milo's heart catches in his throat at the idea of riding a dragon. However, his halfling wanderlust momentarily overtakes his good sense, and he watches himself board the creature in anticipation, nearly shaking with excitement. Sitting upon the great gold, he gasps as they take off into the air, holding on for dear life. Once they land, he is vastly disappointed by the short duration of the ride. Realizing he is in unfamiliar territory, he immediately looks around for a comforting face, and then slips into place right next to Olana, giving her hand a playful tug.
Jerry Monday January 17th, 2005 8:49:41 PM
From this point on all here are to post on the Gold Dragon Board. let me know via email if you don't have permissions. We'll rush them through.
Back to the Chase -- DM Donna Tuesday February 1st, 2005 1:17:11 PM
The dragonflight back from the famous home of the Gold Dragons adventuring group is as fantastic and quick as the flight there.
"Farewell, then, little ones," the glittering gold dragon says after K'Nara thanks him for the ride on behalf of the party, "It is my honor to have transported you...now I can brag to my brothers and sisters that 'I knew them before they were famous..!"
The rumble of dragon laughter echoes briefly before the drake vanishes in mid-air.
K'Nara sighs, looking around at her group.
"Rossko is fairly sure that Falin has been magicked away in a manner that makes is near impossible for us to trace where he went." the female fighter tells the Talons. "He says that, most likely, Falin himself is going to have to find a way to contact us in order for us to get him back. Until then, he doubts that even Olana's bracelet can overcome the complexity of the magic that was used."
(DM OOC: in case there is anyone who had made any Catacombs purchase, etc, earlier--you may now Officially use whatever you got.)
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 1st, 2005 2:03:29 PM
Bertram climbs off the dragon queasily. He falls to the ground glad to be back on land at last. After a brief rest he examines his axe for a few moments then puts it away and begins praying to Domi and Gargul.
Figment Tuesday February 1st, 2005 11:06:29 PM
The mage looks to the dragon as it leaves. Too bad it wouldn't take them to the stronghold and cut down their travel time. Oh well...
The refreshed mage looks to the others "I suppose we should make great haste if we are to beat Elise to the stronghold. I'd say we better get moving.".
Lian Tuesday February 1st, 2005 11:45:32 PM
He waves, but says nothing to the dragon.
The elf is happy to be on the ground and just waits for the others to start on the road again.
He turns to Figment. "Remember, time stood still with the Dragons. We should still hurry though."
Ready for Take-Off -- DM Donna Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 6:15:21 AM
"Okay, Talons, back to business!" K'Nara says firmly, looking around the campsite. She nods at one of the craggy boulders. "Looks like your friend is still hanging around, Gunther."
The she-panther is crouching warily in the shadow of the boulder, as it is the only "cover" in the area.
"Oh, by the way, this is for you..." K'Nara adds in an off-hand tone, taking from her backpack the package given to her by the Gold Dragons' butler before the Talons had to leave.
"I asked if we could have a nice panther-sized roast for your kitty." the human bladesinger explains. "It's raw and big enough to hold her for a day or so, I should think."
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 6:22:26 AM
(Oh, dang! I forgot to post for Athalorn on Tuesday! Grrr...)
The druid is happy to see the big cat is still lingering about.
Lian Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 6:23:03 AM
The monk helps pick up camp and is ready to set out.
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 8:30:58 AM
While the big cat eats, Bertram takes some time to figure out how to spend the rest of his divy of the treasure from the last adventure. He looks up suddenly, "I think Domi needs a chapel at our new tower."
Gunther Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 8:58:03 AM
Hopping off the dragon as fast as he can, Gunther makes a bee line for the panther, thrilled to see that she decided to stick around. He beams at K'nara and the roast. Grabbing up the slice of meat, he heads over to the kitty and presents it to her. If she will let him, Gunther gently strokes her as he murmurs incessantly about how pretty she is and how much he missed her while he was gone. He looks around at the others and agrees with Figment. "Dose giants cost us a bit of time ve should get moving soon."
DM Donna d20+11=20 Wednesday February 2nd, 2005 10:35:37 AM
As the deific might of the God of War fills Brother Bertram's mind, something seems to prod at the edges of his memory...
(OOC: Rolled a Willpower Save versus DC20 for the good cleric.)
...hey...Bert wasn't able to take his gloves off before the breakfast with the Gold Dragons.
In fact--it's been QUITE some time since he's been able to remove those gloves..!
Milo Thursday February 3rd, 2005 12:06:04 AM
Glad to be back on the trail of his former kidnapper, Milo draws his short sword and gives it a playful twirl before sheathing it again. Staying close to Olana, the halfling rogue appears to be bubbling with energy, "I agree with Gunther. I should get a move on."
Olana Thursday February 3rd, 2005 12:28:41 AM
Olana springs off the back of the dragon and runs a hand through tangled hair. "Well, that was exciting, wasn't it!" she grins, still all of a tizzy with the dragon meeting and the proposal.
Settling down, she quickly re-braids her hair, checks her gear, and is ready for the off. "Which way? Do we know?"
Brother Bertram Thursday February 3rd, 2005 4:28:22 AM
With a roar, Bertram comes out of his seat, jerking on his gloves, staggering about, falling onto the ground, swearing in several languages as he rolls about.
Now What??? -- DM Donna d20=18 Thursday February 3rd, 2005 6:02:22 AM
K'Nara smiles as Gunther offers the good-sized hunk of meat to the feline and the panther accepts it with alacrity. The black cat devours her meal, suffering the human man's attention with a single half-hearted growl before devoting herself to her meal.
The leader of the Talons nods when Brother Bertram announces his idea about a space at the Tower devoted to Domi...but before she can assure him that this is a matter that will be discussed later, the dwarven cleric seems to go mad!
"Bertram! Bertram!" K'Nara shouts, running up to the struggling brother. "What in The Wold is wrong???" The human bladesinger steps closer and then back as Brother Bert continues his struggles with...whatever.
Figment d20+21=30 Thursday February 3rd, 2005 7:57:27 AM
The mage looks at the cleric, afraid to try and restrain such a powerful man. He scrutinizes him closely for any sign of what might be causing him to act this way. (Arcana 30).
Gunther Thursday February 3rd, 2005 11:21:29 AM
The warrior starts at Bertram's behavior, striding over to the dwarf, Gunther lays his hands on the cleric's shoulders. "Calm down...vhat's wrong? Vhat can ve do?" Totally at a loss as to what to do, Gunther tries to calm his friend.
Brother Bertram Thursday February 3rd, 2005 2:28:14 PM
With a roar of rage the squat cleric turns on Gunther. Aye I will tell you whats wrong! Get these *&^%%@# gloves off me! I cant get them off! They just cling like some sort of rabid weasel, not letting go!" Bertram thrusts both gloves up to Gunther, hoping the warrior can rip them free.
Milo Thursday February 3rd, 2005 8:22:08 PM
Initially startled at Bertram's outburst, Milo settles into a grin that slowly, inexorably migrates across his face, "Where did you get the gloves Bertram? You really shouldn't try wearing strange magical handwear like that. Ahem..." It takes considerable effort on the halfling's part to stifle a chuckle, and wipe the grin from his face. However, he does manage some modicum of seriousness in the end.
Lian Friday February 4th, 2005 1:47:27 AM
(OOC: Sheesh, sorry for no Lian or Athalorn post Thursday. I was updating computer stuff.)
The monk looks at his dwarven friend. "Bertram, relax. It's probably easy to explain. You haven't washed your hands in months! The gloves have simply bonded to the dirt." The elf smiles and looks at the ground, chuckling silently. Lian looks back at the cleric, "Sorry... *snicker*, I just thought...*snicker*..." He breaks into full uncontrollable laughter.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Friday February 4th, 2005 1:51:03 AM
The druid steps between the monk and the cleric so that the dwarf can't see the monk. "Brother, it is likely a curse of sorts, chances are we can get those removed when we get the Ferryman's curse removed as well. Stay calm and you should be fine."
Olana Friday February 4th, 2005 1:55:35 AM
"A curse?" exclaims the elf, watching all the goings on. She wrinkles her nose. "Oh dear - they aren't nice. Not nice at all."
Brother Bertram Friday February 4th, 2005 4:26:57 AM
Bertram slowly calmed himself. "That no good, backstabbing Mechanical Dragon..thing." Bertram is off on another round of swearing for a moment then slowly calms himself. "Well perhaps Domi can do something about it." Bertram walks away from the group a few feet,kneels, and prays to Domi for assistance. As he prays he tries again to remove the stubborn gloves. ((OOC casts Remove Curse)
Gunther Friday February 4th, 2005 11:32:28 AM
The warrior watches with wonder and amazement as Bertram casts his spell. He hadn't heard much about cursed items, but he knew they were a pain...and sometimes hard to remove. He stands ready to try and help rip the gloves off the dwarf's hands should the spell fail to work.
Getting the Gloves Off -- DM Donna Friday February 4th, 2005 11:53:01 AM
"Can't get them OFF?" K'Nara echoes, then she groans. "Don't tell me that they're--"
At this point, several of the more arcanely-apt members of the party immediately state how the gloves may be cursed.
"How can that be?" the chestnut-maned woman asks, looking at Figment and Ingrge with puzzled eyes. "You both carefully Identified the items from Fae Skiemir...?"
Brother Bertram, meanwhile, must roll a Spell Check of his Remove Curse spell versus the magic of the cursed gloves--a DC of 16.
Brother Bertram Friday February 4th, 2005 4:35:15 PM
((OOCBertram automatically saves with a 21))
Milo Friday February 4th, 2005 7:13:49 PM
"Um... that is horrible. How do we get them off you Bertram?" Milo is dumbfounded, feeling rather useless in situations such as this. He is incredibly thankful for having friends that are more inclined toward the arcane.
Figment Saturday February 5th, 2005 9:32:53 AM
Seeing his ally's trouble he says "We can tell you what things are - we cannot tell you about curses. That must fall to the clerics...". He looks on as the dwarf casts, wanting to wait to see what the results are before offering spells of his own.
Ingrge Saturday February 5th, 2005 9:40:39 AM
(OOC - Geesh, sorry all. I just missed a week of posting and didn't even realize it.....)
Having remained very quiet since leaving the Gold's castle, Ingrge has remained fairly aloof and distant from the Talons only answering direct questions and not speaking at all to Milo or Olana, unless absolutely necessary.
As K'nara asks about the identifying of the items Ingrge looks over at her and shrugs.
"Often times cursed items will register as some other item and that is how they show up."
"He then walks over to Bertram and asks do you need some help with that or do you have it covered?"
If needed he will take out a remove curse scroll and use it.
Bibbidee-Bobbidee-Boo... - DM Donna Saturday February 5th, 2005 8:42:09 PM
If Brother Bertram wants to know whether his spell worked, he's going to have to at least try to peel off the gloves...
Brother Bertram Saturday February 5th, 2005 10:39:57 PM
Bertram hurriedly jerks at the gloves, trying again to get them off...
Revelations - DM Donna Sunday February 6th, 2005 6:48:58 AM
K'Nara rolls her hazel eyes when Figment and Ingrge explain about the nature of magic items.
"Oh, just great!" she mutters. "Next time, we're just gonna shop at the Catacombs, then--their stock is guaranteed curse-free."
The beleaguered dwarven cleric's efforts to remove the detrimental Gauntlets of Fumbling pays off--the gloves are handily (and FINALLY!) stripped off his hands.
"If we don't have any OTHER cursed items to unmagick," K'Nara says with an annoyed sigh, "I'd like for us to get moving on down the trail--this Elese person has a LOT to answer for..!"
Brother Bertram Sunday February 6th, 2005 8:47:23 AM
Bertram pants, staring at the gloves then his hands, open, raw sores covered his hands, it was obvious the gloves had been on there for a very long time. He carefully tended to his wounds, then tucked the gloves away deep in his pack. "I am sorry everyone. I didnt mean to scare you." The dwarf looks sheepish to say the least.
Figment Sunday February 6th, 2005 9:47:11 AM
Seeing the dwarf get them off, the mage says "And I too am sorry for not seeing their curse. I've heard that such gloves do appear to gauntlets of power.".
Brother Bertram Sunday February 6th, 2005 9:03:46 PM
Bertram finally calming down turns to Figment nodding, "To my eye, Friend Figment, I felt so much faster with them on, but alas I have realized I cannot hit anything in combat as of late. I wonder what wizard sits around thinking up such things. I would like to pay him a vist." He grins a bit, regaining his composure somewhat.
Gunther Sunday February 6th, 2005 10:57:51 PM
Once Brother Bertram looks in the clear, Gunther gives him a hearty slap on the back. "Told you dat stuff vas bad news...vhy do you tink I sold all mine?" Gunther winks at the dwarf in good hearted fun and then heads down the trail following K'nara.
Olana Monday February 7th, 2005 12:44:37 AM
Olana breathes a sigh of relief. "Well, thank goodness for that! Should we burn them or something, do you think? The gloves, I mean."
Lian Monday February 7th, 2005 1:16:43 AM
"Perhaps burning them is a good idea. However, I think we should keep them and sell them to get a few gold for Bertram's trouble, if possible."
The elf looks at the gloves, than at his gloves. "They look alot alike, but I DID buy mine in the Catacombs, thankfully." He gives his gloves a secret little 'tug' to be sure they are easily removed.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Monday February 7th, 2005 1:17:53 AM
"I'm glad this little delay has been remedied, but perhaps we should move along now, quickly?" Suggests the druid.
Brother Bertram Monday February 7th, 2005 4:26:39 AM
Bertram grinned wolfishly, "I was thinking of sending them to Endrin as a gift. Just to thank him for everything." But no I wont burn them, we may find some use for them yet.
Onward and Upward - DM Donna Monday February 7th, 2005 11:48:33 AM
The Talons are finally organized enough to continue on their way. K'Nara orders Milo and Olana to scout ahead of the party and keep their eyes peeled for signs of either the stronghold or of Elese's party traveling along towards it.
The party continues on through some of the worst terrain they have ever had to deal with so far. There is very little water and what they do find is suspect.
There are few animals to be seen as well--although they believe they might have seen a pride of Basilisks sunning themselves on another ridge. Snakes and scorpions of all sizes abound in this area.
The Badlands are very cold at night and extremely hot during the day. There is little real growth any where to be seen, though occasionally a fairly large patch of Thornbush pops out of nowhere.
The feeling of being watched is continuous and at times you swear you see a goblin or orc head pop out from behind a rock just to disappear again immediately. The terrain is mountainous desert with an occasional cave, lava pool, and bubbling acid pools.
As Milo and Olana come over the top of a ridge, they see built into the side of a cliff is what can only be the compound they are looking for (Olana instantly recognizes the place as the buildings that had been glimpsed in Maisie's scrying).
The stronghold seems to be extremely well built. The front and side walls are 50 feet tall and really thick. There appears to be a 20' wide by 40' long passage that leads to a small courtyard with a large, well built gate that sits in the middle of the opposite wall. There are many arrow slits that allow defense of the passage way.
Leading up to the entrance to the stronghold, however, is the rocky trail that Elese and her crew must be following to get here--there is no discernable movement on or within the stronghold at this moment. The ridge Milo and Olana are on mirrors Elese's trail.
Lian Monday February 7th, 2005 8:08:12 PM
The monk stays low and quiet, but vigilant. He seems on edge, but that might be expected. "Where is everyone? Shouldn't there be more sentries?" He whispers.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Monday February 7th, 2005 8:12:35 PM
The druid hasn't been too comfortable in the barren area, but he's is doing okay considering. After all, even this place is part of Mother Wold.
When coming upon the ridge and the fort he turns to K'Nara. "Would you like me to do some ariel recon? I could take the form of something unassuming... like a vulture or the like?"
Milo Monday February 7th, 2005 8:47:25 PM
Seeing the compound, Milo drops down quickly so as not to be seen himself, and turns to Olana, "Whadd'ya think? Lets drop back and tell the group what we found." The excitement at perhaps arriving at their intended location is evident on the halfling's face.
Brother Bertram Monday February 7th, 2005 8:54:17 PM
Bertram trudges along with the others keeping an eye out for problems.
Gunther Monday February 7th, 2005 11:13:27 PM
The further they travel into the Badlands, the more anxious the warrior becomes. The occasional sight of orcs causes Gunther to become downright spooked. He constantly casts around in extreme paranoia and completely loses his jovial banter. As the terrain worsens, Gunther makes good use of his ring and shares his food and water rations with the panther and Athalorn's eagle.
While they wait for Milo and Olana to return, Gunther's hands nervously relax and tighten on the grip of his sword, as though something deep within the man demands that he either fight or flee.
Olana d20+14=25 d20+12=16 Tuesday February 8th, 2005 12:26:35 AM
Olana nods at Milo, ducks down, and signals to the others to be stealthy.
She then studies the ridge to figure out the best way down without being seen.
(Survival DC25, Search DC16)
Figment Tuesday February 8th, 2005 8:03:46 AM
The mage travels along with the others and graciously thanks Gunther for his food and drink. "So is this place deserted or guarded? Are we guests or can we simply tke over the place for awhile?". When it comes into view he offers to fly up with Antalorn and invisibly look it over more closely.
Scoping Out Possibilities - DM Donna Tuesday February 8th, 2005 12:09:59 PM
K'Nara listens to Milo and Olana's initial report about the stronghold...and the ranger's observations about the ridge (which, to Olana's eye, likely could provide a way down to the trail that Elese was traveling if the group backtracks along it--she just can't say for sure when that will happen, because both the ridge and the trail curves away behind yet another peak.)
"We didn't pass time when we had breakfast with the Gold Dragons..." K'Nara says contemplatively, "...which means we still OUGHT to be between twelve and eighteen hours ahead of Elese and her group...IF they didn't use magic to get to Blackshadow Hall before we have..." She turns to Athalorn.
"That idea is good--use the form of a vulture and scope out the stronghold from above," the leader of the Talons tells the druid, "I suspect that any of the towers or guardpoints won't have more than one person per...unless Elese DID beat us here--then she will doubtless have ordered everyone at her disposal to man the stations and be ready for us, knowing we are following her." K'Nara turns back to Milo and Olana.
"Backtrack the ridge--carefully, now! We need to see if there is a way down to that trail...preferably out of sight of the stronghold." the female fighter says, rubbing her chin. "I'm hoping we might be able to set up an ambush for our band of thieves out of sight of Blackshadow Hall--if we're lucky, we can get that artifact back before anyone in the stronghold realizes that Elese is back."
Ingrge Tuesday February 8th, 2005 6:14:29 PM
Following along beside Bertram the elf has nearly become withdrawn, rarely speaking and never initiating a conversation as he hears the report about the keep Ingrge separates himself from the group a bit and casts a quick spell (Locate Object - Serpent Star)and awaits the outcome.
Milo d20+18=21 d20+21=35 Tuesday February 8th, 2005 9:24:35 PM
Milo nods in acceptance of K'nara's plan, and gives Olana a moment to prepare herself before skulking off, along side Olana, to backtrack along the trail. (OOC: Hide DC 21, and Move Silently DC 35. These reflect a -5 penalty for moving at normal speed, rather than half speed).
Brother Bertram Tuesday February 8th, 2005 10:22:46 PM
As they walk Bertram murmurs to the elf under his breath, "Friend Ingrge I hope you are not angry with me. I would not have harsh feelings between us." He says this quietly as not to draw the others into thier conversation. He grows silent respectfully as The elf uses his magic.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) d20+19=23 d20+19=20 Wednesday February 9th, 2005 12:48:23 AM
"As you wish K'Nara." The druid shifts into a very ugly vulture and takes off. He does a fly-over of the ridge then circles the towers and parapet(if any). The druid also makes a trip into the courtyard and gate area. (Spot 23, Survival 20) He looks for landmarks that may not be natural, like traps, snares or the like.
Lian Wednesday February 9th, 2005 12:50:15 AM
"What do you want me to do K'Nara? I could scout."
Olana d20+14=16 d20+16=19 d20+15=34 Wednesday February 9th, 2005 1:40:27 AM
(Dig those yucky rolls.) Moving off quietly in Milo's wake, Olana casts her eyes along the ridge, looking for a likely ambush spot. Ingrge's behaviour has her a little distracted however.
Survival DC 16 Spot DC 19 Move Silently DC 34
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Wednesday February 9th, 2005 6:17:00 AM
The vulture circle high and looks carefully for signs of inhabitants.
Lian Wednesday February 9th, 2005 6:17:34 AM
He waits for K'Nara's orders.
LOG ON