Xenia (HP 41/42) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 11:23:41 PM
Xenia leads the way into the kitchen.
"Florin Jadenth," she begins, planting her hands on her hips, "do you have even the first idea of what it is to lead a group? Do you know what the mostest important thing the group relies on you for when you're leader? It's not your bravery. It's not your morals. It's for you to make decisions!!!" The rogue throws up her hands. "That's what leadership is about. It's not about courage or glory or anything like that. It's about getting people to do stuff. It's leading. And if you go off by yourself, does it even occur to you that you leave the group without someone to lead?"
"You leave us all here, your daughter, everyone, and you run off. And when you run off, everyone just goes and does whatever they want!"
"That's not gonna work, Florin. It's just not."
Wynn d20+2=15 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 12:56:39 AM
Physically and mentally worn down, Wynn still manages a grin at Syr's antics.
The half elf follows behind the gnome, carrying the precious water skins as the monk leads the way back to the Giggling Ghost and the paladin takes the rear guard. After setting the skins down near the alchemist, the bard listens with interest to what Pek has to say. Understanding their importance, he remains on guard over the gnome and the skins.
The half elf winces when he hears Xenia's raised vioice coming from the kitchen. (Listen=15)
Wynn gestures for Belkior to come over and have a look at the gnome, then faces the little man. "I am willing to carry this poison and apply it to the vines, if it will free the city."
Tionel Wednesday October 12th, 2005 2:32:34 AM
The elf returns from a quick trip to the lavatory to see the newcomer. He introduces himself, "Greetings, I am Tionel Galadonel. We're the Crimson Shields...oh, I see you've already met most of us." After finding out the guy's quest, and his intentions, Tionel ponders... "Pek... Hmmm. Here, have some wine. Happy, can you whip up a meal for this poor fellow? You must have been through a bit." After the fellow has relaxed, Tionel comments, "Now, before we all set off to destroy the vile plants, I don't think this is a great idea at all. What you're talkinga bout is pouring poison and vile toxics into the underside of this city, directly onto the plants, and then where, into the waters of our surroundings. Now, I know these plants might be both fearsome and dangerous, but to me, this sounds like it has the potential to be very harmful to our city. You could poison the water we drink from, or perhaps drive these plants into a frenzy. Mutate them somehow. I can't be sure of the effects. Harmful at the least you say. "Now, I know we want to strike out at the enemy, the plants, to free our city from them. But I'm afraid I can't condone the sort of plan you seem to have, sir. But I do agree, it is a good idea. Now, I have a few suggestions on a better plan, if you will allow me. Perhaps if we could use contact or quick-acting, quick-dissolving toxics. If, for example, the poisons you used would go away once they contacted the water. I'm afraid I don't know the alchemical term for that. But in any case, you see what my worries are. If you can prove to me that these poisons you plan on using will not have a long-term effect on the Floating City's environs or hurt the land itself, then I will agree to your plan, as these plants DO have to be dealt with. You don't burn down a forest in order to get rid of a dangerous boar." Tionel makes sure he sounds somewhat strict, but also open to ideas and information. Also that the newcomer feels relaxed. "Belkior, can you help our guest? He appears wounded a little..."
Syr Wednesday October 12th, 2005 7:34:11 PM
Syr barks playfully once at Florin and enters the Ghost with a smile on his face. Syr sets the bags down carefully and joins the others near Pek. At Wynn's volunteering, "Slow down , you might want to save the climbing and such for your more agile fiancee... umm girlfriend... what do you call her anyway?"
Belkior Wednesday October 12th, 2005 8:30:05 PM
The halfling cleric rushes over to the injured gnome brought into the Giggling Ghost by Syr, Florin and Wynn.
"Excuse me," asks Belkior. "May I examine your leg? To determine how injured you are, and the best course of treatment, of course."
When the gnome nods assent, Belkior will bend over Pek's leg. Once he has diagnosed the extent of the gnomes injuries, Belkior will intone a prayer to Alemi and send healing magic into the gnome.
"There, that should be good as new. It might be a bit tender, but you should be able to use it just fine."
{OOC - I missed posting yesterday. There wasn't a DM post when I last checked, then didn't get a chance to post until now.)
Florin Jadenth Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:10:07 PM
Florin shakes his head and looks at Xenia a moment before stepping up close and looking her in the eyes in a dead stare, "Listen here miss Xenia, I gave orders that we all head to the upper level to scout leaving the two guards, Happy and the kids here till we find out how safe it is and get a better idea of everything ALL the way up. My orders went ignored even by you, you and a couple others just left with the rest of us here, not giving us a clue or anything you all were leaving till it was to late. So my advice is not council me on my leadership skills and start listening to them yourself as well as some of the others here."
Florin looks to Xenia again and speaks clearly, "You all voted me leader, if you don't want to follow my orders then I quite simply will resign and you all can go doing what you wish like WE have been from the beginning."
Florin now walks out of the kitchen leaving Xenia there before she can say anything else and also looks to each person who might of heard his and Xenia's coversation and might also have something to say about it, daring them to bad mouth or say something against what he said.
Florin looks to everyone, "We have a rope set up at the stairs to help get everyone up the stairs. You should thank Syr for getting it up there. Now we should head out soon and get these kids moving too. The kids to young to get up the rope on their own should be tied securely and pulled up. This may take some time but it should work okay."
Florin looks to Happy and speaks to him, "Happy and I don't like asking you to leave the GG but would you like to come with us or see if someone will be willing to send supplies back to you? We could probably leave the guards here to help protect the place in our absence."
Florin now looks to the others and by now Xenia should of reentered the room so he speaks up loud enough for all to hear, "Now, if anyone has a problem with my idea then speak your mind but we are not acting alone. If you don't like me acting alone then neither are you. I expect opinions and if you have nothing against my plan then we act together. This however is the final time I say this. If I issue orders and no one objects then we should act on it, if it comes about that anyone acts or the majority of the group acts alone then I resign leadership position and we all can go about what you think will work best. Some of you look at my actions under a magnifying glass but when the boots on the other foot it's fine so put simply think before acting, if you think some other course of action or so is better then state it and we can simply pull a group opinion."
Florin walks to the side of the room and leans against the wall now and looks to Happy once more, "Happy, you happen to have some elven wine around here? I wouldn't mind having a small drink just to wet my whistle."
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:59:21 PM
Xenia wanders back in from the kitchen. She leans against the already leaning doorframe, crossing one leg over an ankle and folding her thin arms across her small breasts. Quietly, she listens to Florin lay out how-it's-gonna-be.
When he's through she catches his eye. She winks and gives him a thumbs up. Her lips move silently forming exaggerated speach. And to those who bother, the words are: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Don't give up. Never. Give. Up."}
DM George Wednesday October 12th, 2005 10:45:38 PM
Florin and Xenia exchange some heated words and the young leader finally stands up for himself. Will the others show him the respect he deserves or will another step forward to take his place and assume his burdens.
Pek looks at Tionel like he grew a second head. Then the healing magic flows into him from Belkior, who notices he has both a broken leg and a broken wrist. (It took a cure serious and a cure moderate to get him healthy.)
He thanks Belkior and then whirls on Tionel his face red, his eyes piercing. "Enviromentally correct! Do you have any idea what is going on out there? Thousands are dying and your concerned about poisoning the water. This city has lost at least 10,000 of its citizens and more are dying every minute. I don't care what you think. I will go alone if I need to but we can't waste any more time or lives!"
OOC I will not be around tomorrow or have access to a computer. Please post normally and roleplay what you want to do. I will post on Friday and Saturday to make up. Thanks George
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 11:24:51 PM
Lang hears Florin's orders and moves over towards the doorway. Once there he starts to take apart the barricade, enough to let people through.
"Florin, are we moving the children or going with the Gnome to try and get the city upright? Or are we going to do both?"
"Happy do you want me to put the barricade back together once every is outside?"
"Ok rugrats, which ones of you are assigned to come with Sunshine and I. Hopefully you can keep me out of trouble" Lang says to the children with a playful laugh.
Angus Wednesday October 12th, 2005 11:29:25 PM
"How quickly do you think the plants will react to your water? How much danger will there be?"
Angus has some concerns about moving the children towards the area where the gnome's magic will be applied.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Thursday October 13th, 2005 8:27:58 AM
The dark rogue strolls into the midst of the group.
"Well, if I heard right, Pek here wants to do this thing on Open Level. We need to take the kids to the Teleport Pad on Gold Level. Gold Level is on the way to Open Level. Why can't we do both?"
"But you know," Xenia turns in a half circle to present to everyone, "I think Tionel's right. My Da says there's nothing more dangerous than a uncareful poisoner. Dangerous to himself and to everyone. I mean," she turns to the gnome, "you sure you thought this out? We've seen those vines from the outside. Do you have any idea how big they are? And you wanna squirt that stuff on 'em? I mean, look at what you got? Three bags, that's all."
"What's the dose? What's the effect of dose on size?" This girl looks like she's heard a bit about poisons.
"Usual delivery ain't squirting unless you wanna kill everything around, friend or enemy. That's your poison mist or gas. For more targeted poisoning, you got darts or arrows. You also got blades and pins of some kind. If this is a contact poison, we might think of painting it on the vines. But I gotta ask you," she eyes the bags again, "you sure that's gonna be enough?"
"Oh, and until we get the kids safely off, keep those things away from them, huh?"
Syr Thursday October 13th, 2005 4:43:54 PM
Aware that he is one of those that sometimes has his own agenda, he hangs in head in apology and gives the paladin a weak smile to reassure him. He peers at Florin curiously, wondering if the changed paladin took off purposely just to set up this confrontation. Muttering to himself quietly, "It looks like those changes have a more subtle effect than anticipated."
Moving over to the bags, he picks them up once more, preparing to leave the Ghost. "Whatever we do, I'm ready." Calling out to Florin, "Hey bossman, if you don't mind, I'll keep this stuff in the rear and as far away from the kids as possible?"
Florin Jadenth Thursday October 13th, 2005 7:48:36 PM
Florin looks to the gnome and the others asking questions and shrugs before speaking up once more, "Okay everyone, why not find out more details on this once we get that far. First priority if to get these kids safe."
Florin looks to Pek and speaks to him, "We will look into helping you more one the kids are safe if you don't mind sir. Helping them as was said is on the way to where you need to go so it all should work out."
Florin looks to Syr also and nods, "I agree Syr. Becareful yourself also, I don't want you green looking or so from poison." Florin gives the man a wink to let him know he was joking.
Floring looks to everyone and speaks up so everyone hears him clearly, "Okay everyone, lets get ready to head out." Florin looks to Xenia mainly, "Better get the kids up here and lets get them all ready to leave. I also would like you and Lang to take point Xenia just incase. You two should beable to give us warning enough and fall back to the group."
Florin lastly moves over to Lang while he waits for the others to get the kids and such, "Lang my friend I need to speak to you for a moment about the stairs we will need to go up. Me and Syr have a rope hanging there and ready for use but some of the kids will need pulled up the stairs. I hate to say it this way but your new body has alot of power behind it from what I have seen so I will need your help pulling the kids up to the top of the stairs. I figure Xenia would be one of the best to help tie the knot for the kids to be pulled up and she would surely be the best climbing I would expect."
Florin sighs and looks to Tionel, Angus, Belkior and Wynn, "All of us will hang back by the kids as we move to the upper levels. I know moving as a mass might be bad but I think it will be safer. Xenia and Lang will be out ahead of us alittle ways to keep a eye for trouble. Syr will be taking up the rear alittle father back from the kids as to keep the poison safe. I expect Pek will want to hang back with Syr since the poisons are his. I know this goes without question but we need to watch the kids, help them out since the going will be rough."
Florin kneels down by Belkior and looks to him and Tionel now, "I hate to say it but you two and I will have a even more difficult job. We all have some experience with healing except Belkior who has made a life of it. We need to watch the kids even more careful and keep them up and going if anything happens. I expect we all seen enough death of children for our life time."
Florin sighs and wonders if he covered everything. He knows though no matter how well he tries to plan that something may happen to cause his plans to go to ruin and he sighs even more since he not only has the people of the group he calls his friends and also his family but his daughter is among thee children he has to safe and get to safty.
Belkior Thursday October 13th, 2005 10:00:31 PM
The halfling cleric looks directly back at Florin. "I will be able to perform most of the healing required, Florin, either through my own abilities or using some of the magic items that I have."
Belkior looks away from the paladin and casts his eyes over the group of children. "If we go slowly and keep within their limits, we should have no problem. Will you listen when I, or anyone else, tells you that the children need to rest? I understand that there won't always be good or safe places to rest, but when we find some we should make an effort to rest. And let me and my helpers tend any small injuries before they get worse."
Addressing the entire group now, "And, if any of you should happen to find any healing supplies, let me know. I'm down to improvised bandages and splints."
(OOC - DM George - I've roleplayed that Belkior has used up the contents of his two Healer's Kits. Would there be opportunity to purchase replacements in the Catacombs and "find" them in a shattered building as we travel?)
Don't bother going to the catacombs, if you want to roleplay trying to find some supplies, then roleplay it. Course it is gonna be tough with the conditions. Spells 0 - DC 14 - Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Mending, Purify Food & Drink (2) 1- DC 15 - Bless(2), Sanctuary, Shield of Faith (D - Cure Light Wounds) 2 - DC 16 - Bear's Endurance*, Bull's Strength, Delay Poison, Spiritual Weapon (D - Aid) 3 - DC 17 - Create Food & Water(2), Prayer (D - Cure Serious Wounds*) * = cast
Tionel Thursday October 13th, 2005 11:19:49 PM
"Yes, let's take things as they come..." Tionel agrees with Florin. "Are all the adults coming? Happy, you staying? I know the merchant and this gnome are coming, is the lady comign as well? "And once we get there, will we be coming back? Well, let's take things in their own time, as they come..."
Tionel heads upstairs to gather his stuff and all the things he thinks they'll be needing. He sighs as he realizes that all their apartments' effects are left back there...perhaps gone forever. Including his spare wardrobe. Six pairs of the most difficult to find boots...lost!
Xenia (HP 41/42) Friday October 14th, 2005 1:39:28 PM
Xenia flashes Florin the thumbs up again.
"Um, 'Xept for the climb stuff, Florin. I mean, I got some technique. But need more arm strength, if you know what I mean."
Still waiting for a reply from the, like, way rash gnome, the rogue taps, the woman on the shoulder.
"Tionel's got a good idea, you should go with us, you know, Xenia says quietly, "I mean, we could get you off to Plateau City too. It's gotta be safer than it is here. 'Sides, I mean, well, not to put this on you or anything, but we need someone to go through to the other side with the kids. Looks like we're gonna have to stay and see to getting the city righted back up."
"You look like you're good with the kids, Kay. It'd really help. I mean, if you're willing."
Wynn Friday October 14th, 2005 8:45:42 PM
Wynn listens to the commentary about poisons and the danger they may pose and weighs the benefits against what he has heard. "I will assist you Pek. It seems worth the risk, even if we only kill one or two of the vines, the hold on the city may be weakened enough to break free." The bard casts his eyes towards Xenia, worried that he may have angered her. "It's just like perfume" he winks, "the more you put on the better it works!"
Wynn volunteers to take up a position near the middle of the troop of children when Florin lays out his plan of action. "This way I can easily get to those who need the most help", he explains.
DM George Friday October 14th, 2005 11:01:10 PM
The group readies themselves to go and the children pack up their packs as Xenia taught them.
Kay looks at Xenia and says, "I am terrified to go with you but still I will. You must promise to keep me safe. I am not a really brave person. I am no hero like you."
Happy declines the offer but the two soldiers pick themselves up and come over, ready to brave the outside world again. The young officer asks,"So your going to the Plateau City. If we go, do you think that could be considered desertion of duty?"
Pek smiles at the questions and concerns of the Shields. He seems to calm down once they start packing up and says, "I have gotten a rash from it before but no more. I wouldn't drink it. I think we have enough to loosen or break 4 to 5 vines. I am hoping that will be enough to free the city. The rest or residue should fall into the lake and the water will dilute it enough to cause no harm.
He grins at Angus's question, "This stuff is like acid to plants. Should eat through pretty quick. I am planning on patenting it once the war is over. Should be great for weeds."
Tionel Saturday October 15th, 2005 1:56:34 PM
Tionel looks at Pek and frowns a bit at his words. The guy sounds convinced, and his explanation has soothed most of Tionel's main fears, but still.. "Well, as long as you say that it's more of an acid thing, and will dissolve in the water. Since you're the only experienced alchemist here, we'll take your word on that. I'd hate to be responsible for hurting the lake. But if it does work," Tionel blinks and smiles, "then it will be a great thing you have done, Pek. We, and the rest of the city, will be thankful for helping us in the time of crisis." Tionel keeps hold of that bright mood and goes over to Happy. "Happy, since we're leaving, I think we must thank you for being a most gracious host. You helped save the children...and weathered us from the attack. Oh, we helped you in return, but it was only your hospitality and friendship that made your hospice a defendable base for us. Thank you, my friend."
Florin Jadenth Saturday October 15th, 2005 8:54:18 PM
Florin looks to the guard, he wasn't exactly expecting them to want to go also but shrugs not saying anything other then turning to happy and holding out his hand to him, "As Tionel said, thank you for your help Happy. We will see about getting supplies sent to you and some help if we can find it my friend. Good luck."
Florin looks to the guards and shrugs again, "I don't know if it would be desertion or not. From what you said you were not given any real specific orders so I would think not as long as your willing to help see these kids to safty also."
Florin waiting for the kids to get all the way ready also sees if Happy minds if he takes a bottle or two of wine or such with him, Florin even offers a few gold to Happy for the bottles of wine and stows them in his backpack, wrapped in his blacket wanting them just incase they are needed for a few various things.
Once everyone is ready Florin heads out, waiting for everyone to group up like commented on and also nods to Wynn, "Just let us know if you notice any kid who is having trouble Wynn. Belkior might be best since he has more healing training. I know it sounds like I'm harping but you know. Also if you will keep Jella near you, if fighting breaks out and she is near me she might try following and that might get her hurt or worse."
Belkior Saturday October 15th, 2005 10:53:03 PM
The halfling cleric shoulders his HHHaversack and prepares to leave the Giggling Ghost. Before he does, he ensures that his group of children are also ready to leave. Belkior's somewhat bothersome - checking straps, ensuring that no one is overloaded and reminding the children to have their shoes tied.
"Florin, we're all ready to go here. Maybe a slow pace, at the start, to let people get used to the climbing?"
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+17=22 d20+13=28 d20+15=25 Sunday October 16th, 2005 10:16:34 AM hehe ... Heroes ... Xenia takes Kay's hands in hers.
"Kay, I'll take common sense and a watchful eye over brave any day. The way I see it, if you aren't 'fraid they you aren't paying attention. I mean, Fear is the way the Wold tells you sump'in's dangerous, right? It's saying, 'Look out. You better watch this close and take it smart or you're gonna get hurt.' So, I figure a little fear isn't a totally bad thing."
"And, you know, we're just a bunch of folks just like you. We got special skills that help us out. But, I mean, look at you, Kay. Look at the way you got with the kids. Keeping them together and moving, keeping their minds on this thing is gonna be important. That's a special skill that we really need right now. You're gonna help save their lives, eh." Xenia grins and tips her head to one side, looking the woman in the eyes. "Doesn't that make you a hero too?"
Xenia pulls her rope down off of the crazy tilted stairs of the Giggling Ghost. Other than that, everything she needs is in the haversack on her back. There is a twinge of loss as she coils the rope in her hands. All of their things in the apartments. The little silver bell that she won at the Winter party. The beautifully carved ten-foot pole that Wynn gave her. The apartments. The garden. Everything destroyed. The dark rogue pushes these thoughts aside and shoves the coil of rope into her haversack.
She gives the big man a hug. "Thanks for taking us in, Happy. And the kids. Seems we always bring this stuff down on you, and then we leave. Now we're leaving again." Words cannot express the mixed well of gratitude and apology. You could repeat the same words over and over and over again and it still wouldn't be enough. Xenia steps away. "You take care now. Don't you dare go and, like, die or sump'tin like that. I ... I ... You just don't, Happy. 'Kay?" The girl rogue tears herself away, heading for the door.
On the way, she stops by Wynn. Her hand reaches out. Her fingers touch his strong right arm. She finds a place of calm in his strength.
"You be careful with that plant poison stuff, alright?" she says, her green eyes meeting his of blue. "I'm still not sure this gnome guy knows what he's doing." Reaching up on her toes, Xenia brushes Wynn's cheek with her lips, before moving silently out into the tilted street full of rubble, scouting 90 feet ahead of the main group behind.
Rolls and Actions Spot 22 Listen 28 Move Silently 25
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Sunday October 16th, 2005 9:14:17 PM
"Florin I will happy to use my new found strength to help all the children up this rope ladder. Let's hope that is the only difficulty we encounter on this trek."
Lang moves over to Belkior and hands him his healer's kit. Somehow he doesn't think he will have any chance to use it if people get injured.
"Here you go Belkior. You will probably be able to use this better than I can if people start getting injured."
OOC - Belkior it has 9 uses left.
Lang moves over to Happy and thanks him for his hospitality and generousity.
Lang moves back to the doorway and waits there until everyone is ready to go. Once Xenia leaves the Giggling Ghost to scout ahead, Lang casts Longstrider upon himself.
"Sunshine heel," Lang commands his companion.
With a metallic ring, Lang draws his two short swords and leaves the Giggling Ghost. He takes up position between the main group and Xenia, who is scouting ahead.
Angus (ac 14; hp 29/29) Sunday October 16th, 2005 9:34:35 PM
Once it is apparant that the group is almost ready to leave the Giggling Ghost, Angus moves off to a corner to prepare.
He casts the spells Mage Armor and Message upon himself. As it is a new spell for him he will test it with his comrades.
He will Message to them "I have a new spell at my command. It lets me quietly talk to you from a distance. I can also hear your reply. You may whisper or use your normal voice to reply to me. The spell lasts for 70 minutes"
Angus points at his 7 companions and sends his message.
Angus stations himself amongst the children so that he can support them with his magic as needed.
DM George Sunday October 16th, 2005 10:15:38 PM
The group organizes and departs the Giggling Ghost. The trek is difficult and many of the children have to be lifted over vines or picked back up from falling.
It takes around an hour to trek over to the pillar where the rope was left for the climb. Kay is helpful with the children and so are the two soldiers, each carrying a little one a piece.
It should be quicker but the children severely slow you down as they are constantly needing help up the incline and over the rubble in the street. Many a bump and bruise are collected and the group needs to stop to stem scrapes and tears.
Finally the first way point is reached and the rope is still in place for the climb.
OOC Marching order is needed and a plan to get the kids up the rope would be helpful.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+5=13 d20+17=33 d20+13=26 d20+14=21 Sunday October 16th, 2005 11:15:19 PM
Xenia foregoes her climber's kit and scampers quickly up the rope. At the top of the rope, she draws her blade and finds a place to hide.
"I'll whisper down if I see anything," she subvocalizes over Angus' Message spell. "Can you send someone up here to back me up? We'll also need someone on this end to keep the children rounded up. Send up at least two before you start sending the kids."
Hunkering down in her hiding place, the dark rogue keeps an eye peeled for danger.
Rolls and Actions Climb 13 (Accelerated for half speed.) Spot 33 Listen 26 Hide 21
Wynn [AC=19, HP=52] Monday October 17th, 2005 12:21:48 AM
Wynn shakes his head when Florin asks him to keep Jella close. "She'll be no safer with me than with you Florin, for if there is combat I'll be in the thick of it too."
When they arrive at the rope the bard looks at the children dubiously. "Do you really think they can climb this? Why don't I give my ring to Lang, and he can climb up with several kids at a time. If he falls he will simply float down without risk of injury."
Angus AC 14, mage armor and Message Monday October 17th, 2005 12:46:27 PM
Angus looks at the rope and then the multitude of kids. "This is going to take awhile. I suggest we send up Wynn and Lang. They can haul me up for support. Xenia and I can keep the watch as the children are brought up. Lang and Wynn can pull them up in turn."
Angus sudders at the thought of all the physical labor that must be done by his companions.
Angus looks to Xenia and whispers "Do you want to take a few moments to scout the area while we get the others ready?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=8 d20+6=14 d20+6=21 d20+3=5 Monday October 17th, 2005 6:54:38 PM
Lang keeps eyes on Xenia and ears on the group behind him as they move towards the Gold level.
Spot 8/12 Listen 14/18
Lang sheathes his shortswords and contemplates the climb in front of him. After Xenia whispers down her message, Lang will wait a few moments before he climbs up to her.
"Florin, I will climb up and see how difficult it is for me. Perhaps I will be able to carry some of the kids on my back and climb."
Lang climbs up the rope, with Sunshine trying to following him, but does not make it.
Lang climb 21; no rope or other modifiers. Sunshine 5; no other modifiers.
OOC - If the climb is ramp-like instead of stairs then maybe we can tie a rope to a large plank/door and I can haul the kids up a handful at a time.
OOC - George can you give us a description of the climb. Such as the angle it is at. Is it a ramp or are there steps? Is the tilt long ways or side ways? Etc.
Belkior Monday October 17th, 2005 10:33:20 PM
The halfling cleric stays near the middle of the group of children. Belkior hopes to be close enough to any of the children to help any who need medical care, and to support his companions if required.
When they reach the rope, Belkior looks at how steep the stairs are and thinks for a moment. "Lang's suggestion sounds pretty good. Send him up, help the smaller ones up then we can shepherd the larger children who may be able to climb for themselves. We're going to need people at both ends to protect the children, however."
DM George Monday October 17th, 2005 11:45:16 PM
OOC. (notice posting is getting a little scant. Lets try and post everyone.)
The group looks up at a wide circular staircase that spirals up. In the center of the staircase is a smooth pillar forming the interior wall. This is one of the four pillars that supports the city and the stones seem seamless. The outer wall also is smooth to the touch and would be very difficult to climb. Difficult to climb that is if they weren't totally covered in vines. The area seems to be well lite with several continual light spells, but shadows are cast as vines grow over them making the place look a little creepy.
Since the city is tilted 45 degrees, part of the climb will be very difficult and parts extremely easy. Really nothing to climb except the vines and any ropes you might raise during the difficult. Walking up the walls during the easy. Each roof level is around 45' tall and the floor between levels is around 15' thick for a total of 180' to get to the gold level.
Their is no way the majority of the children can make it. To much upper body strength is required. Overall climb check of 10 to make the entire climb.
As the group looks around, they are relieved to see the streets are quiet. Pek speaks up, "We need to keep moving."
Xenia climbs the ropes without difficulty but starts to tire before she gets to the top. She finds a place to plant her feet and rest as she looks around. She quickly realizes that the kids aren't going to be able to make this climb.
Climb rolls:
DC 10 needed, if you roll under that by 4, you get stuck. If you roll under a 6 you fall. The climb going at 1/4 speed, normal climbing speed, will take 1 minute 20 seconds or 12 combat rounds. Everyone needs to make a strength check of dc 10 or they will tire during the climb and need to rest. If this happens a second climb roll will have to be made with the same DC check.
Jella takes one look at the staircase up and backs away, "No way am I climbing that. I bet their are spiders up there." Most of the children seem to share her concerns.
Angus: Mage Armor & Message Tuesday October 18th, 2005 12:35:51 AM
Angus sees that Lang made it to the top no problem. "Excellent Job big guy. Send down an rope and we can tie off Sunshine and then me and the Wynn. Then you and Wynn can get to work on pulling up the kids. Looks like fun."
Angus waits for Lang to toss down a rope before suggesting that someone tie it securely to Sunshine, since Angus has little skill in this area, even though his father did try to teach him.
While waiting for Sunshine to be pulled up Angus goes over to Pek and leans on a wall next to him. "So great inventor of plant killing juice, what happens to the city when all of the vines snap? How fast will your potions work? As in do we have time to tie down to something solid." Angus adds nonchalantly.
Tionel d20+6=8 d20+7=10 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 3:12:16 AM
Looking at the sideways staircase, Tionel can't help but realize again how far the City has tilted. "Mother Wold..."
He runs a hand through his long hair, wondering faintly where his hat has gone. Long lost in a fight somewhere, no doubt. No time to think about that, though. Privately, he relates to Syr, "You really think we can pull them up all that distance in a makeshift cart? I'm not sure I can even climb it. I know I can fly it, though. Hmmm. If only we could all fly up there. I'll fly and keep watch on the middle level, so that nobody gets attacked mid-way without at least some notice." So saying, Tionel changes to an eagle. He's not exactly the most graceful flyer yet, but soon he's catching flight and soaring. (From what I understand, the three levels we're climbing, I'll keep watch around the second level. In eagle form, I rolled a Listen of 8 and a spot (+8 from eagle form in daytime) of 18.)
Xenia (HP 41/42) Tuesday October 18th, 2005 7:52:38 AM
"Hey, guys," Xenia whispers down, "I got a couple of ideas if we wanna do this and protect the kids too. First, we take this in stages. There are some places here where we could collect the kids and then start another leg up. We set up a rope from one stage to the next and pull them up."
"Another idea is to splice together one big long rope and do the whole thing from Fence Level to Gold Level."
"The first way would be slower. And we'd have a crowd of kids in a tight packed area where we couldn't run. But, I think it would be safer for falling. The second idea would be quicker. But it would also be more dangerous in a lot of ways. It's a longer pull for each bunch of kids we bring up. If some of them don't like heights there's more time to panic. And that would be more rope, which would make the weight heavier. And that's a much longer way to fall too."
"What do you think, Florin?"
Florin Jadenth Tuesday October 18th, 2005 10:38:23 AM
Florin looks to Xenia as she speaks and nods, thinking before speaking, "I ay we go with your first idea Xenia. Lets get to work on this people so we can keep moving and everyone keep an eye on getting fatigued and such while we work."
Florin moves over to Jella and kneels and looks to her and the other kids and smiles, "I know your worried everyone but please listen to me. We're trying to get you to safty and trust me we all are looking out for you. To get you safely where you all will be okay we have to continue. We need you to be brave too and help us out. We might be your heros in many ways but all of you are like ours. Just being out here at your age and such is being so brave and strong of all of you. This is a form of being brave that even we have to hold in high reguard and respect."
Florin lays a hand on Jella's shoulder and whispers in her ear, "Your a brave girl Jella and make me so proud and I bet Mort is just beaming right now with pride. We both know you can do this darling, you just have to try for us."
Syr Tuesday October 18th, 2005 1:56:15 PM
Before Tionel leaves he replies, "hmm, a cart might be too heavy for us but it does give me an idea. Think our little rogue could make multiple harnesses and we could pull 2-3 kids up at a time? Heck with Lang's size, he could do it by himself almost."
He continues to linger near the rear of the group with the plant poison carried carefully.
Belkior Tuesday October 18th, 2005 9:06:42 PM
The halfling cleric prepares to make the ascent with his charges. Listening to the debate about how to get the children up to the top level, Belkior comes up with an idea. He moves over to Florin and the rest of the Shields.
"I know that we don't like to do it, but maybe we'll have to split the party up. Send two or three people to the top to secure the upper end and keep the same number back here to protect this end. The two best climbers can go up with several children roped between them. It's going to mean several trips for them, but that might be the best way to get all the children up there."
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=8 d20+6=7 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 9:22:05 PM
Lang stands with the group waiting to use his new found muscle to help the children up the tilted stairway.
He takes a look around to see if anything is approaching, but is way to distracted witht he task at hand to see or hear anything.
DM George Jr, Mountain Climbers Associations Tuesday October 18th, 2005 10:08:34 PM
The group is able to after much diligence, a few close calls and lots of sweat either able to climb to the gold level or haul those up who are unable.
You step out into the Gold level and see less distruction. Evidence of battle can be seen her as well as the group starts moving through the streets following the map and directs of Pek.
You find yourselves in fron of a large stone buiding. It is warehouse in size. It seems to have 2 large sliding doors on either side of the gate but all is quiet.
Wynn Wednesday October 19th, 2005 12:18:14 AM
The bard seeks out a place next to Miss Next. "Xenisa?" he asks. "You've been up here before, right? Recognize this place?"
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+17=30 d20+13=20 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 9:15:48 PM
Xenia rubs her sore forearms.
"Well, um, yeah. This is how I got to Floating City, Wynn. But, you know, I didn't hang around here much after I got in. I mean, lots to see, you know."
The rogue wanders around to the side of the building. "And it looks really different with no people around. Weird."
"Lets see if we can find another way in."
Rolls and Actions Spot 30 (For another way in.) Listen 20 (Listen for People.)
Syr Wednesday October 19th, 2005 9:17:12 PM
Concerned at the evidence he is seeing, he calls ahead to Florin, "I guess it does pay to be rich, I doubt many of these folks lost their homes likes us and the orphanage. Pick up the pace up there, I don't want to be caught in the open?"
Belkior Wednesday October 19th, 2005 10:14:13 PM
The halfling cleric sighs and rubs his aching back. Too much climbing for someone so small, Belkior thinks.
He takes the opportunity to check as many of the Shields, the children and the others with them to determine if any were injured during the climb. Those that were injured get as much first aid as Belkior can manage, given the circumstances.
Florin Jadenth d20+3=19 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 10:17:56 PM
Florin looks around as they move, specially since it is so quiet and sighs when he wonders how many of these people even survived. Florin stretches abit to check his tired muscles before looking to everyone, "How's the kids and everyone else doing? I know we're trying to hurry along but if we need this might be a good time to find a safe place to rest before moving on."
(spot:19)
Tionel d20+15=32 Thursday October 20th, 2005 12:42:59 AM
(The Wold site would not load for me last night, sorry I didn't post.) The eagle does a once over from high above of the building, peering at it from a distance as he flies about it. (Spot 32) Then, Tionel the eagle flies up a little and takes a perch on our group's friendly bugbear's shoulder. He cleans a bit of fluff out of his feathers. Then he hops into the air and settles into the comfortable elven form. "Sorry... Dunno why but I felt like staying a bird a bit there. Most comfortable." (If he saw anything he will report it to the others)
Angus: Mage armor and message Thursday October 20th, 2005 1:15:02 PM
Angus is relieved when Lang hoists him up as he did not trust himself to climb and did not want to work up a sweat. "Thanks for the lift big guy." Angus says as he pats lang on his furry shoulder.
Angus waits for Pek to catch up and hopefully answer is question about the vines and the tower
Syr Thursday October 20th, 2005 6:51:52 PM
Walking up beside Tionel, "I still think that is the greatest magic that I've seen. Do you feel like you or the beast when you use their form?"
Looking thoughtful, "You know if you had Angus' message ability while you were in animal form, there'd be no real need to switch back, right?"
DM George Thursday October 20th, 2005 9:18:07 PM
The group comes together and figures out a plan. Several members head up first, secure ropes and keep the area safe. Others then start hauling up the children halfway up the climb. Once they are all up the process starts again even more frantically as the group is worried about ambush and how vulnerable the chidren are in this exposed position.
Lang is called upon for his brute strength and he works tirelessly hauling ropes. Everyone joins in and finally the task is done. Hours have passed but the group has gotten everyone up to the Gold level safely.
As the group peaks out the entrance to the tower they see much less devastation than they did below. It seems the ancient builders had a much larger hand in the construction of this level and many more of the buildings survived. Still vines cover everything.
Pek talkes to Angus, "I am an alchemist, not an engineer but I assume it will get very rocky as the city settles back into the lake. Lets get these kids to the teleportation gate and safety. Then we can go on and free this city." Pek points down the street heading south. "I believe the gates are down that way."
Belkior Thursday October 20th, 2005 9:37:41 PM
The halfling cleric looks about at the devastation caused by the jungle's attack. The worst part is the lack of people on the streets. The last time that Belkior was on this level, on his way to or from the Temple of Alemi, the streets were teeming with people.
"Creepy, isn't it?," Belkior whispers to Wynn and Xenia. "Nobody on the streets. It's like everyone but us has left the City. And we're on our way out, too."
Belkior takes advantage of the break to check more people for injuries. When he gets to Lang, he asks the ranger if magical aid would be desired. "I should have thought of this before. I could have enhanced your strength to make the task of lifting the children easier. Would you like me to ask for Bull's Strength for you?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=13 d20+6=14 Thursday October 20th, 2005 10:20:45 PM
Lang stretches his muscles and tries to rub out the kinks in his back from all the lifting. It feels good to be active and proactive in what happens to them.
Lang draws his shortswords and he and Susnhine move out in front of the group as it moves towards the teleportation building.
Spot 13/17 Listen 14/18
Spells: Speak with Animals (not cast) Longstrider (cast, not active)
Wynn d20+6=17 d20+2=15 Thursday October 20th, 2005 10:26:03 PM
"Wait one moment Pek. We must first ensure the children are safely away, then we will assist you in dealing with the vines."
Wynn maintains a position halfway down the column of children on the flank and watches for danger [Spot=17, Listen=15]
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+15=23 d20+18=33 d20+13=25 Thursday October 20th, 2005 11:29:49 PM
"Yeah. Real spooks, Belkie. I'm really surprised the Goldies took off. You'd think they'd really hang on here."
"Hey, Florin, you think you're folks are gone too?"
Xenia nods at Wynn's insistence that they get the kids to safety. That's gotta be first. What's wrong with that gnome guy anyway?
She takes up point again, slinking silently through the streets of Gold Level to the place where her memory tells her the Teleport pad should be. Inside, she wonders if Baronell is still around, riding his cloud above the rooftops.
Rolls and Actions Move Silently 23 Spot 33 Listen 25
Florin Jadenth d20+3=19 d20+2=12 Friday October 21st, 2005 12:00:23 AM
Florin looks about and shakes his head but just hopes the place looks so abandoned because most people are somewhere safe.
Hearing Xenia's comment he glances to her and thinks over this all abit, "I do not know. The grounds would of been guarded decenty I would imagine but with the resistence we had it is hard telling." Florin frowns abit as he is caught between abit of worry and not sure if he really cares, he knows they are his parents and his agreement with them but he also still holds alot of anger towards them.
Florin quickly shrugs off his own thoughts and nods as the gnome points the direction out, "Yes, lets hurry along and get these kids to safty. After their safe and then the city we all can really worry about other things." Florin quickly moves off in the direction where the gates and teleporter awaits them, keeping a eye and ear out as well as possible.
(spot:19 listen:12)
DM George "Confusion" Friday October 21st, 2005 8:12:28 AM
OOC Sorry guys, Having the Wold go down for that day screwed me and my time line up. Please take it from my last post and ignore the one earlier. Again sorry for any confusion.
Belkior Friday October 21st, 2005 11:01:25 AM
The halfling cleric continues to minister to his flock.
{OOC - Starting night shifts tonight. I will post in the mornings (probably) or late afternoon when I'm awake again (possibly).)
Angus: mage armor and message d20+9=16 Friday October 21st, 2005 1:29:15 PM
Angus likes the idea of getting the kids to saftey first before taking on the plants.
Angus sticks to the center of the group and tries to entertain the kids on the way with his flute (perform 16)
When he gets a chance, Angus will corner Pek once again. "Hi Pek. If you are an alchemist by trade, what other concotions do you have that may be helpful. Also did your lab survive the recent problems?"
Tionel d20+7=19 d20+8=14 Friday October 21st, 2005 3:01:36 PM
Tionel looks to his friend elf and responds, "You know, that's the strangest thing of it. When I become a creature, I really feel like the creature. I even think like him, for a while. So far, when I do it, I even don't like changing back... well, until I get some acorns tucked away, or I've had my fill of worms... Weird, huh?"
Before Angus can start playing, Tionel approaches him. "Don't play here... I'm afraid the plants might hear. Though that raises a good question. Plants don't have ears, do they? Yet, they always seem to appreciate good music.. Maybe we can befriend them with your music, even, at some point." He laughs at that little joke.
Tionel takes up a position on the right side of the kids, and is very careful to watch the sides and houses, listening for anything coming. (Spot 19, listen 14)
Syr Saturday October 22nd, 2005 1:47:19 PM
To the druid, "You better be changing back, do we need to tie a string around one of your claws to remind you?"
Syr trudges along near the rear of the group, "You know, this deserted city is kinda suprising. I really would have thought some thieves would be around just for looting if nothing else. Those plants must have done a thorough job." He shivers at the thought of what must have happened to those that stayed.
DM George Saturday October 22nd, 2005 2:43:39 PM
Syr's speech comes to a close and he is quickly answered by the city. Xenia gasps in dismay and a child screams and points. When the others follow her finger, they see a horrible sight. Citizens of the Big Float seem to be coming towards them. Something is wrong with the way they are moving though. Their gate is unnatural. It is half limp and half walk. Their arms are outstretched and their faces are slack. Only their eyes seem alive. The are alive with hate.
When the group takes a second look, they see that the skin of the people has a greenish tinge. A quick look around identifies many foes coming out of allies, climbing out of windows, and shuffling out of doorways. Pity turns to horror as the numbers reveal themselves. Hundreds of citizens must have been infected by spores and turned into this state of living death.
It quickly becomes obvious that the group would be overwhelmed if they choose combat. The children would be killed and the city not saved. The merchant scoops up a toddler and yells, "Quickly we must get to the gateway. It is our only chance. Run! Run for your lives!" He quickly follows his own advice and holding the girl starts running down the street towards a warehouse.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20=16 d20+18=27 d20+13=20 Saturday October 22nd, 2005 3:04:56 PM "Greenies!" Xenia shouts the warning.
"Stars!!! It's, like, everyone. I mean, *everyone*!!!" The dark rogue scoops up two of the smallest children.
"Time to run, Kids! You remember the drill. Move fast. But don't move blind. Stay calm. Just keep moving!"
"Kyria?!!!" As she follows the Merchant, Xenia looks desperately around for the little blonde girl.
Rolls and Actions STR 16 Spot 27 Listen 20
Florin Jadenth Saturday October 22nd, 2005 7:58:10 PM
Florin glances up to Tionel and speaks quickly to the man, "Tionel if you have some spell to slow them down like I believe the spell was called entangle or something. Can you cast in your bird form?"
Florin looks to the kids and yells out, "Run to the exit now kids! Do not look back and just run, try not to run over anyone else and if you can help anyone who falls."
Florin runs towards the way out now also, thinking things over in his head, knowing he stands no choice but to run, "Everyone make to the exit now."
(OOC:George, if the movement of the greenies is slow enough then Florin will try stopping and using whats left of his lamp oil and the alcohol he picked up from the GG to make atleast a small wall of flames to block the greenies or maybe slow them down.)
Florin calls to the gnome, "trust me little friend, if you have anything flamable or such that maybe of some use then it would be quite nice right now."
Wynn d20+9=12 Saturday October 22nd, 2005 10:35:21 PM
The bard draws his longsword at the sound of the child's scream and he turns to where she is pointing. "Hurry children" he says as he marshals them along from the side. "Keep going, no matter what!" The bard prepares to defend the column of children if necessary.
Held action Hit AC=12 (miss) if any of the diseased citizens reaches the party.
Lang & Sunshine Sunday October 23rd, 2005 10:37:23 PM
Lang hears the scream of "Greenies" and scans the area and sees them approching from all side. Lang goes to draw his bow, but thinks twice about as all the hair on his new body stands on end in excitement of battle. Lang draws his short swords instead. "Sunshine defend" Lang calls to his trusty friend.
Langs sees that the situation is hopeless and calls to Xenia "Get the Kids to saftey. I will talke rear guard." Lang is itching for a fight with the plants, but that will have to wait for another time as he and Sunshine cover the retreat of the Shields and kids.
Angus: Mage Armor and Message Sunday October 23rd, 2005 10:41:15 PM
Angus is greatly concerned for his own skin and his friends at the arrival of all of the greenies. "Time to go Pek." As Angus graps his elbow and stears him toward the teleportation gates. "Unless you have something to take care of this plant horde in your little gab of tricks."
Angus takes a look over there big group and yells out "Lets get moving people. Kids it time to move it on the double. Come and keep up with me." Angus turns and moves off and keeps encouraging the kids to make the best speed.
Belkior Sunday October 23rd, 2005 11:46:19 PM
The halfling cleric's head whips around when the child screams. More of the diseased, created by the jungle, come to attack anyone who is still whole.
Belkior turns to his charges. "Quick! Stay with Xenia and Angus! No time to wait!".
The Healer tries to move the children along, keeping pace with the slowest and urging the faster along. With his mutated legs he could easily outpace the children but he wants to remain between them and the threat.
Suddenly, Belkior thinks of something. "Hey! Someone run ahead to check that the warehouse is safe!"
Syr Monday October 24th, 2005 2:41:05 AM
Syr curses once, "I HAD to ask..." Moving up beside Pek, he steadies the poison while running and winces thinking of the deadly poison bouncing against his chest. "I know we probably shouldn't waste the weed killer on these things but if you see an opportunity for the greater good... Let me know and I'll disperse it?" Knowing that his cargo is more important, the elf looks on as the others assume his normal position as the rear guard.
DM George Monday October 24th, 2005 6:29:58 PM
The group chides and hurries the orphans along, in some cases picking up the slower ones. Florin combines any oil with any alcohal he has and causes a low wall of flames to spread out on their flank to slow down the zombies citizens from that direction. Still more are coming from all directions quickly and the situation looks bleak.
The group after around 20 seconds of hustling get to the doors of the warehouse. The merchant slides the door open and starts waving children through. Once everyone is through, he slides it shut but with a look of dismay says, "This door isn't designed for defense. We won't be able to keep them out for long."
The group's quick action buys them several melee rounds headstart on the zombies but they are all still shambling forward.
A quick inspection of the interior of the warehouse shows a large mainly empty room. It its center are two wide and tall arches. (OOC Think Stonehenge) You can easily see through both of them but the one on the left seems to be shimmering. Almost like you see heat in the air over a fire.
Pek says, "I don't see the operator. They must have abandoned this place or been consumed buy the spores. It looks like we are in luck. The gate connecting the Big Float to the Plateau City is operational."
Please everyone make a spot check dc 20
Belkior d20+5=25 Monday October 24th, 2005 8:12:20 PM
The halfling cleric looks around the interior of the warehouse, peering into the corners and shadows. Belkior had suggested scoutign the building before entering, but this examination may be just as useful. Spot = 25
"Okay, let's get the children ready to go through the teleportal."
Belkior calls his group of children over for a pep talk.
"Children, we've done really well so far, getting up the stairs and into here without anyone being injured. You've been a great help to me, keeping everyone well."
"Now, we're going to send all of you through the portal but I'm going to be staying back to make sure you get through. I think you know why," Belkior says as he gestures towards the entrance of the building. "Stay together and pay attention to whoever does go through with you. Above all, look after each other."
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+18=32 d20+3=9 Monday October 24th, 2005 9:57:50 PM
Xenia hugs both of the children before setting them down on the ground before the simmering gate.
"Wait here kids. With the others around the portal," she says. The dark rogue eyes the big empty room. "Anybody know how this thing works?"
"Kay," she calls to the woman, "you all set to go through? Where's the controls to this thing? Everyone set to go through?"
She walks by Florin, and almost casually whispers as she passes. "I'm not sure I like this, Florin. How sure are we that this thing goes to Plateau City? I mean, it's not like we have much choice. But ... framblation, without someone controlling the thing, it could go anywhere."
"Ohhhh." Xenia stalks off. Hands on hips she plants herself in front of the shimmering portal. Head tipped to the side, the rogue tries for a glimpse of what's on the other side.
Rolls and Actions Spot 32 Knowledge Local 9 (I think this means, that Xenia has nothing but the vaguest idea how this thing works.)
Wynn d20+6=18 d20+8=18 Monday October 24th, 2005 10:24:20 PM
Wynn ushers the last of the children into the warehouse and helps close and secure the doors when everyone is in. A quick glance around reveals nothing more than the portals and the room full of children [spot=18]. When Xenia starts fussing over the portal Wynn tries to calm her down. "I've been through one of these to get here from the Red Hills. When they shimmer like that they are active, and you simply walk through. I don't think anyone has to be at the controls." [Bardic Knowledge=18]. "We may want to think about closing it down from the other side when we get there to prevent any of the diseased from getting through."
Tionel (Sub/Al) d20+7=24 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 3:30:50 PM
Coming in on the right side of the group of orphans, Tionel carefully looks about for more of the infected people. (Spot 24)
"Isn't the Temple of Alemi on Gold Level too? I wonder whether something happened to them? They know how to cure this green disease. I hope we won't be bringing anything to Plateau City with us."
Florin Jadenth Tuesday October 25th, 2005 3:38:27 PM
Florin looks to everyone and then the warehouse person before sighing deeply and motioning to the shimmering gate like object, "We have no choice but to go no matter what. We all go for staying here is a death trap."
Florin looks to the warehouse man and nods to him, "Your coming too, I won't let anyone just stay here to die and those things will get in soon."
Florin pulls his sword, glancing to the Woldian runes spelling out Glimmer and looks to everyone, "Start in, I will go through last. No argueing either, I'm the leader and in charge of seeing you all through safely. If they break through I will do my best to hold them off till each of you are through and will follow once each of you are safe."
Florin expecting Jella to argue looks to Syr and nods to his friend, whispering as silently as possible and in elven, "Take her to safty Syr my friend. I'll follow soon and keep her safe for me."
Angus d20+2=13 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 4:48:39 PM
Angus scans the room for a way to operate the gate (spot 13) but is too distracted by the greenies on his tail to make an effective search. Angus starts counting the kids to make sure they all made it and starts to reassure them that things will soon be better.
Angus looks to Florin and calming says "Watch your words as there is no need to scare the kids. A bit of confidence may be the order of the day."
Lang and Sunshine d20+8=24 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 4:51:23 PM
Lang and Sunshine are the last in the warehouse and he glares at the plant creatures as the doors close. "Another time." Lang whispers under his breath.
"We have the door. Defend Sunshine" and Lang plants himself 10 feet from the door, but scans the room (spot 24) for more plant creatures or anything interesting.
Syr Tuesday October 25th, 2005 7:39:10 PM
Syr looks blankly as Florin whispers in Elven. He shrugs helplessly to show he doesn't understand then sees Florin's look at Jella and gets the idea. Placing a hand on her small shoulders to guide her through he joins the others on the trek.
DM George Tuesday October 25th, 2005 9:57:54 PM
The group gathers the children and slams the warehouse door shut and several stand guard while some prepare for the zombies to make an appearance.
Belkior, Xenia and several others spot a stained portion of the floor. Upon closer inspection they realize it is a bloodtrail. It doesn't take a skilled tracker to see that someone was killed and their body dragged through another set of warehouse doors on the other side of the building. In the middle of the bloodtrail they see, a wand with a jewel at the end of it.
Xenia quickly glances back at the portal where see noticed a slot that looks conviently like a key hole.
The children jump and several cry when they hear a loud slamming sound. It sounds like several bodies have slammed into the warehouse door which they group originally came through. Moaning and pounding soon follow at the zombies start trying to force the door.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+13=31 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 10:23:59 PM What if this Gate thing doesn't go to Plateau City?!?!? What if Plateau City is full of plant monsters too?!?!?
*BANG* Another slam against the door. There's really not much choice.
Cool. Cool, Xenia. Take things cool. Don't spook the kids. You'll just get them hurt.
Her heart beats a trip hammer in her chest, but the dark rogue steps quickly to the wand in the middle of the blood trail.
"Florin," she whispers, terse with intensity, "we gotta talk about this leadership thing when we have time. I think you have it all wrong."
Then the rogue is comparing the jewel in the wand to the keyhole. A match could mean this thing makes it work. Otherwise ... it's time to get out the picks and see about jimmying this thing.
Rolls and Actions Open Lock 31
Belkior d20+5=12 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 4:22:40 AM
The halfling cleric stands between his charges and the doorway. Belkior looks around the warehouse, attempting to see if there are other entrances that the zombies may use. If their brains haven't been fully consumed by the plants growing inside their skulls. And he's particularly worried about that blood-trail. But he's too worried to really concentrate on finding things. Spot = 12
"Kids, remember what I said. Stay together. Look after each other. Follow the instructions of whoever goes through with you." It seems that belkior is reciting these things as much for his own benefit as for the children.
The Healer then takes a moment to rummage through his HHHaversack. He pulls forth three or four flasks and holds them out to the Shields.
"I still have some Antitoxin here. Who wants it in case we end up fighting those purple orc things again?"
Wynn Wednesday October 26th, 2005 8:08:20 AM
The bard scans the warehouse for items that might be used to bar the door and delay the intruders for just a little bit longer. If he finds anything he will start pushing it against the door and ask for his companions assistance at the task.
Angus: Mage Armor and message Wednesday October 26th, 2005 9:17:34 AM
Angus moves over to the gate and readies Lightning bolt. "Leave me a clear path to the door so I can fry as many as possible, if need be."
Angus notices that Xenia has the key. "Hey girl, lets see where you can take us. This frying pan is about to get much hotter."
Lang & Sunshine Wednesday October 26th, 2005 9:21:07 AM
Upon hearing Angus's warning, Lang moves himslef and Sunshine out of his line of sight and back toward the platform. Lang grips his short swords even tighter, still amazed at his his new found strenght. "Are we staying or going!??! We do not know who the gate works and it may take time to get through!" Lang barks out his question, still keeping his attention on the banging and the intact door (for now)."
Florin Jadenth Wednesday October 26th, 2005 1:24:04 PM
Florin looks back to Xenia and simply shakes his head, wishing he could get her to understand that he sees his leadership position as also meaning he must see each of his friends safe, no matter the cost.
Florin looks to Lang and then Angus, "If that wand Xenia has works you will go ahead of me. I expect no questions on this."
Florin also steps over to where Xenia found the blood trail and frowns, wondering if something is already in here with them. He whispers to Xenia in hush tones as to keep it between them, "If that works Xenia then get that thing fired and you all get moving. I don't like the idea of this blood here."
Florin thinks and looks to Lang, "If there are some crates or something in here we might beable to block this door more to slow these things down more." Florin is running low on ideas on how to slow these things down since he can't kill them all and he knows one man standing alone or even all them is not going to work.
(Scott: Sorry about the one post. I forgot Syr didn't know elven. My bad.)
Tionel (Sub/Al) d20=16 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 5:10:28 PM
"Maybe there's some sort of spell involved." Tionel peers over Xenia's shoulder from behind. If that's a key, it looks a lot like a wand. He examines the wand with a trained eye.
Spellcraft 16 (Once again, no character sheet. Please add Tionel's Mod to this roll, DM.)
Syr Wednesday October 26th, 2005 6:26:54 PM
Perplexed, he approaches Tionel, "So.. the wand activates the gate? I thought wands all needed a word to be said?"
He hangs around the gate and the children, "That's it, everyone form a line." He nds down to their level to reassure each that everything wil be okay.
Wynn d20+6=13 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 7:23:06 PM
The bard backs away from the outer door at Angus' dire warning and turns his attention to the door through which the blood trail leads. If that door is unlocked, Wynn will open it and have a look inside.[Spot=13]
DM George Wednesday October 26th, 2005 7:40:35 PM
The merchant will come up and inspect the wand. He will look into Xenia's eyes and say, "That is the key for our side of the gate." He points at the gate that isn't shimmering and continues. "Each city controls their side. Security against invasion. Typically only one gate is open at a time. Helps with wagon traffic, tolls and inspections. Right now the gate to the Plateau City is open. All we have to do is step through."
He pauses and glances at Pek, "The problem will be getting back. If no one is here to turn on the gate, then we won't be able to travel back. Not sure how you will administer the potion to the vines and free the city."
Pek overheres the conversation and a look of anxiety crosses his face. The gnome says, "We have to free the city! Send the children through. The authorities on the other side will take care of them. We need to get to the open air level. Who knows when someone will be around to activate the return gate?"
More and more hammering is hitting the doors. It doesn't look like the zombies are smart enough to just open the doors. Still the doors are rattling very hard and the wood is starting to splinter in places.
Belkior Wednesday October 26th, 2005 9:03:09 PM
The halfling cleric looks back and forth between the door, the teleportal and the groups of children clustered around the Shields.
"Florin! Let's start sending some children through with the guards, the merchant, Happy and Kay. They can keep the children together while we hold off the plant zombies!"
Belkior begins moving his cluster of children towards the portal, urging them along with hushed orders. When they get close, he finishes with, "Be brave, all of you. We'll be along soon to look after you."
With that, Belkior urges the first of his charges into the portal.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Wednesday October 26th, 2005 9:56:54 PM
Xenia jams the wand into her belt.
"Kay? Kay, here, take this." Xenia hands the woman a small sack with 500 gold pieces in it. "You take care of them, alright? When you get settled, send us a message at the Giggling Ghost. Wherever we set up after this is over, we'll get it."
The rogue throws her arms around Kay and takes her in a hug. "Take care of 'um. Please."
Then Xenia finds the little blonde girl she had befriended, it seems so very long ago.
"You mind Kay now, you her," Xenia looks down into the girl's blue eyes. "We'll see you guys again, alright? When things are all better again. And we'll go buy candy again. And you can pick out some for all your friends." She pulls the little girl into an embrace. "But until that time, you be good now, Kyria. I love you little Punkin."
With one last kiss to little Kyria's forehead, Xenia turns the girl to the gate and gives her a push to move her along. With a savage twist of her head, she tears herself away, running a gloved finger along her cheek to wipe something away.
"Wynn!" she calls after the bard. "Is there another way out that way? Someplace we could sneak out?"
Angus: Mage Armor and Message d20+2=7 Thursday October 27th, 2005 5:35:10 PM
Angus frown when he hears the merchant and Pek discuss sending the kids through without any Shields. "Well it may have to happen that way." Angus grumbles to himself.
Angus scans the warehouse looking for a way to climb (spot 7)or a way aout but is distracted by the zombies banging on the door.
Lang and Sunshine Thursday October 27th, 2005 5:55:41 PM
Lang takes another step back from the door and yells behind him. "Get the kids to safety!"
Lang checks the door to see how long it might hold and yells again. "What are we doing people, the greenies will not wait forever." Secretly Lang thinks to himself 'let them come...'
Syr Thursday October 27th, 2005 6:59:28 PM
Syr's eyes go wide at seeing 'small' sack with 500 gps. Thinking to himself, that looks heavy, it must weigh 50lbs or so....
Focusing back on the task at hand, "You know, that is a good point, What IF we are sending them into danger? we'll never know? Why not just activate our side of the gate and someone drop through and then immediately return. Whatever we do, we have to decide quickly. Heck, whoever goes could even summon help?"
Tionel (Sub/Al) Thursday October 27th, 2005 7:00:32 PM
Tionel scratches her head and shrugs as the Merchant confirms what he had suspected.
"Some things may look like wand, Syr," he replies, "but in this case, I guess it's a key."
"Follow the adults." Tionel stands on the other side of the children, helping to get them ready to go through.
DM George Thursday October 27th, 2005 9:17:58 PM
The group agonizes on which way to go. Should they send just the children through? Should they activate the other gate so they could return. Will they be sending hordes of greenies to the Plateau City after them?
Only Xenia seems to have made up her mind. She starts saying goodbye to her friends. At her goodbye, Kay seems to find strength. She grabs the hands of two little ones and looks back at the others. "Remember how we practiced? Everyone join hands." As the chain is forming, the brave women leads the children forward into the gate. Just before she disappears, she looks into Xenia's eyes and says, "Don't be a hero. These kids need more than one mother."
Then she is gone and the children quickly follow her in. The two soldiers looking relieved and a little apprehensive march to the gate. "As the city watch, it is our responsibility to watch over our citizens. We will keep them safe."
Lastly the merchant strides forward, "I will remember you. I owe you. I will find a home for the orphans. I will take care of them. Look for me at my Master's business office. His name is Piska Tallif." He words echo as he is swallowed up by the gate.
As the children were hurrying through the gates, the hammering grew in intensiity, power and noise. As the merchant steps through, the door buckles in and collapses. A sea of Greenies are on the other side and they look hungry.
The other side of the warehouse is still quiet. The door stands closed but empty of threat. Well no threat, minus the bloodtrail.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Thursday October 27th, 2005 10:22:23 PM
Xenia's bottom lip quivers ever so slightly as the last child walks through to what she hopes is a better life.
And then Green Hell bursts through the door.
"ALRIGHT! LEADER TIME, FLORIN!!! What we gonna do here! We can run for Plateau City and have them close the gate behind us! We can jink out the backdoor! Or we can stand and fight the sea of Greenies! ANY OTHER OPTIONS?!?!?"
"Hurry up and decide! Cause if we stay, I gotta shut down this Gate!!!"
Wynn d20+2=17 Thursday October 27th, 2005 10:58:15 PM
Wynn tries the door again. The one through which the blood trail leads. "Xenia, come give this door a try. It won't open for me," he calls out. For good measure, he digs his shoulder in and tries to force the door. (Strength Check=17)
Angus: mage Armor and Message 7d6(3+2+5+6+2+2+3)=23 d20+2=15 Thursday October 27th, 2005 11:52:10 PM
Angus calls to Xenia. "Try to close the gate and lets get out of here. Is there a way out of here?!?"
There is a crack of thunder as Angus lets loose a bolt of lightning (DC 19 23 or 12 damage). Angus will make sure he does nto get any friendlies and gets the maximum of greenies, but still leaves himself time to retreat.
Angus will fall back looking for an escape route (spot 15)
OOC: George can we have a map. I do not understand the lay out. What door is closed?
Lang and Sunshine Thursday October 27th, 2005 11:56:03 PM
Lang sees that there are just too many plants even for him "We must fall back! does this place have a back door?"
Lang and Sunshine move back from the splintered door. Lang and Sunshine each reflexly duck when the lightning bolt goes off.
Tionel (Sub/Al) d3=2 Friday October 28th, 2005 9:44:59 AM
"Do we want to hurt them?" Tionel calls out on the heels of Angus' blast of lightening. "They're people just like us. They can be cured." Tionel struggles to think of something that could stop the Greenies without killing them. But it's so hard to come up with anything.
Instead, Tionel retreats and begins a spell to call on some help.
(Cast Summon Nature's Ally III Burn a 3rd Level Spell. I'm working without a CS. Assuming Tionel is a 7th level Druid. Next round, two Hippogriffs appear in locations strategic to blocking the progress of the Greenies, and they attack.)
Syr (62/62 AC19/18) Friday October 28th, 2005 7:37:13 PM
Syr barks quickly at Xenia, "Calm down woman, remember what the merchant said? Maybe I'm misinterpeting but we can only open and shut the gate coming FROM Plateau city. We have no control over the the one leaving. Therefore nothing for us to shut down."
Looking over at the strangely quiet Florin he steps up sticking out his chest and says in a commanding voice, "Here is what we are gonna do: The kids are safe or at least their fate is decided, no sense worrying about them now. The guards will have warned the folks at Plateau City. I'm guessing they will leave this gate open until the first greenie comes through."
Pausing for a hurried breath, "That will be our last option for escape. The priority now is righting this ship and saving any people left on OUR city."
Syr looks over to Pek, "What did you say would happen if we applied the poison, although not too much, to these green things? Would it cure or kill?" He hands the pouches back to the Alchemist. "I think I'm going to need all my mobility. Also, you got anything in that bag of tricks that will help our situation?"
Looking at the group, "We gotta bust outta here." Glancing over at the muttering druid, "I THINK Tionel is getting us some help so we have a short time. Belkie, hop over in the middle of everyone and see if you can cast a spell that will either protect everyone from that disease or help us in battle? After that, everyone head for the closed door. Hopefully, we aren't jumping out of the pan but I'd rather chance the unknown than fight the greenies. Lang and Florin, you hang in the back. If we do need to aboutface then summon your charger and the two of you try to clear and path and break through the greenies with your size."
Turning to the frantic Xenia, "You and Wynn up front, if Tionel buys us enough time, I want to know what's on the other side of that bloody door before going through. Lang, can you and Sunshine cover Pek? Everyone else in the middle. LET'S MOVE PEOPLE!"
Belkior (AC 22; HP 40) - Bless Friday October 28th, 2005 9:13:34 PM
The halfling cleric decides to bolster his companions strength and resistance to fear. Belkior calls on his connection to Alemi and casts Bless. When he does so, his Pearl of Power flares briefly.
Then Belkior moves to close up with his companions. As he does so, he wields his mace.
"Whatever we do, let's stick together! Nobody running off by themselves where we can't protect each other!"
Active Effects Bless - +1 Attack & vs. Fear, 60 rounds
Florin Jadenth Friday October 28th, 2005 11:58:54 PM
(OOC:Sorry for not posting sooner people. We got our new computer here and we been setting it up. I really didn't expect it to have as many things to fine tune and tweak with before having it ready. Heck we had trouble getting into the Wold at first because Norton was blocking it.)
Florin looks to the gate, the greenies and the back of the area where th blood trail goes and can't help but think that trouble is waiting back there somewhere. He takes a deep breath and looks to Syr when he steps up and gives orders, nodding to Syr before pointing to the blood trail, "Lets hope what caused that isn't something big and mean or alot of them then."
Florin stays silent now but keeps his sword ready and is glad he has kept it out this whole time. He doesn't like the thought of all those greenies behind him and maybe something infront of him.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Saturday October 29th, 2005 6:10:25 PM "You just calm your own self down, Syrdeth Redbow," Xenia fires back. "He said each city controls their side, he didn't say it couldn't be shut down from this side. That would be stupid. Why build something that could only be shut down from one side?"
"And I'm not gonna let even one of those Greenies through this gate. It's not just the Greenies. It's the spores. You wanna count on them knowing about the spores on the other side? You wanna let one of those plant things bust outta the back of that one Greenie's head and start the whole thing going over in Plateau City. Forget you!"
"Gate's coming down! Too late! We're staying!" The rogue jams the wand into the keyhole, before running off to join Wynn. Fram, hope this works.
DM George Saturday October 29th, 2005 11:08:45 PM
The doors fall and the greenies start pushing into the room. Angus's lightning reaches out and downs many of the plant zombies. At least 20 fall to the stroke but 3 times that number seems ready to take the fallen's place.
Belkior casts a bless and everyone feels momentarily better and feels like the can fight more efficiently.
Tionel also casts a spell and summons two hippogriffs which will appear next round.
Lang also decides to retreat moving towards the closed door.
Xenia tries to stick the wand into the active gate and realizes that it doesn't fit. She fiddles for a few seconds and quickly realizes that she can't turn off the gate from this side.
As she backs away in anger the active gate makes a strange buzzing sound and seems to go dead. Xenia doesn't think she had anything to do with it but isn't totally sure.
Syr steps forward and assumes a leadership role. He asks Pek if the plant poison can be used on the Greenies. Pek replies, "It might work but we can't do it. We barely have enough right now to free the city. We can't use it all now
Florin concurs in Syr's orders and starts moving to the still closed doors.
Wynn makes it to the door and throws a bolt that is keeping the door closed.
Pek outright runs towards the doors in a straight spring. He starts pushing them open as after Wynn unlocks it.
The doors swing open to reveal another street. Vines cover the street but no monsters are currently in sight.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+11=21 d20+18=32 d20+13=22 Sunday October 30th, 2005 2:57:11 PM "Gates Closed!" Xenia calls out so all can hear. "We're gone!"
Tearing across the floor, the rogue hits the door and gives the street a good look.
"I'll take point again. Who's gonna back me up?"
"Which way, Pek?" she asks, and then heads off in that direction, creeping at an accelerated speed from cover to cover.
Rolls and Actions Spot 32 Listen 22 Hide 21 (-5 For Full Range of Movement)
Wynn d20+6=8 d20+2=17 Monday October 31st, 2005 12:26:15 AM
"Right behind you Xenia" Wynn calls out as he follows Xenia into the streets. [Spot=8, Listen=17]
Angus: Mage Armor and Message Monday October 31st, 2005 10:02:23 AM
Angus does not like that his lightning bolt did not stop the onslaught. "Time to leave." Angus turns tail and runs for the door, following everyne else.
Lang & Sunshine d20+8=19 Monday October 31st, 2005 10:06:53 AM
Lang sees that he will be overwhelmed if he stays to cut down the green filth, much that he wants too. It is better to live to uproot more of the scum later.
"Sunshine Heel." Lang barks and the big bugbear retreats with the rest of the shields. Lang keeps rear guard and slams the door closes when everyone is out. Lang also looks for a way to bar or secure the door (spot 19).
Syr Monday October 31st, 2005 3:35:52 PM
Syr raises an eyebrow at Xenia and watches as she fiddles with the gate without commenting. As it shuts down, he turns away and quickly catches the others near the door. Staying behind Pek, he jogs along easily keeping his eyes moving looking for any signs of trouble.
He winks once at Florin and gives the elf a quick smile to reassure the paladin that everything is fine.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 40) - Bless d20+5=23 Monday October 31st, 2005 8:57:50 PM
The halfling cleric runs out into the street with his companions. Keep up, keep up, Belkior thinks to himself. At least his mutation is good for something.
Spot = 23
Active Effects Bless - +1 Attack & vs. Fear, 59 rounds
Florin Jadenth Monday October 31st, 2005 10:02:40 PM
Florin moves after the others and glances back over his shoulder now and then before sighing and hoping Jella and the others are okay on the otherside of the portal. He keeps his Glimmer his trustly sword in hand though knowing it will be needed if anything happens.
(Hate to ask this but can someone send me a copy of Florin's CS? My new computer has a CD burner and such but no disk drive for disks which is where Florin's CS is on.)
DM George Monday October 31st, 2005 10:36:31 PM
The doors open and the group spills onto the street. Looking back they can see the plant zombies giving chase but the mutation has slowed them and the best they can manage is a shamble.
Pek leads the group towards one of the southern pillars away from the zombies, and the greenies are quickly lost from sight. Besides the occassionaly stumble, the group has no problems getting to their destination.
The climb is difficult, but through the previous teamwork, the Crimson Shields have mastered climbing through the tough sections of the pillar. It goes much faster when you aren't pulling up a group of orphans.
The group enters the open level and a blue sky greets them. Spotted clouds dot the horizon but it is a beautiful day. Then they noise hits them. As the group moves towards the tilt, the vista opens up. They can see first hand the refugee camp planted on the shoreline. Thousands of people are camped there, hiding behind quickly erected fortifications. Still the numbers seem low. It looks like thousands more have died.
As the group nears the edge, they see huge vines attached to the city, straining against it. The vines are as thick as 100 year old oak trees and they stretch away into the jungle.
Tionel Monday October 31st, 2005 11:06:35 PM
(Back from vacation... thank you, Al, for taking over for me) "Looks like we're here. And now, we poison the vines. I guess. Look at how few people there are left..." Tionel gazes across the shoreline mournfully. "Let me try a little spell, then I'll start summoning creatures, since no doubt, we'll be needing them as soon as you drop the poison."
Tionel casts Diminish Plants as soon as the alchemist applies his poison, hoping to combine the effects to deal a devastating blow to the plants. (Centers it as far down into the base of the vines as possible)
Wynn [AC=19; HP=52] Monday October 31st, 2005 11:56:43 PM
"I will volunteer to make my way to the other side with one of the skins of poison" volunteers the bard. "I can run down the vine and if Tionel could fly along side we could make sure that the poison is delivered to where the vines are anchored on the other side."
Wynn looks down at the lake, "If I should fall, my ring will make the decent easy and I will at least find out if any of this is of benefit." The half elf sweeps his hair from his neck, exposing the as yet untested gills.
If the others agree, Wynn will down a potion of Cat's Grace, shoulder one of the skins of poison, and climb up onto the vine.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+18=35 d20+13=21 d20+11=23 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 8:18:05 AM
Never been up so high in her life. You could just slide right down the tilt of the Wold and fall into the lake below.
Xenia shakes off the notion with a quick blink of her eyes. She draws the shortbow, eyes scanning the Open Level for danger.
Then a thought strikes her.
"Um, Wynn? Guys?" She holds the weapon up for all to see, the curved piece of carved wood strung with animal gut. "Ever see a what happens when a bow string snaps?" The rogue points at the gargantuan vines. "Be careful, Wynn. If there looks like there's any tesion on the vines, you don't go out there. The vine could whip. I mean. Maybe." Xenia's green eyes are filled with worry and doubt.
"Whatever happens. Be ready." Then she goes back to her scouting position as the group works their way toward the vines.
Rolls and Actions Spot 35 Listen 21 Hide 23 (-5 for full range of movement)
Angus: Mage Armor & Message Tuesday November 1st, 2005 8:46:42 AM
Angus admires the view, but it is sobering to see the refugee camp on the defensive.
Following Xenia's train of thought. "I am less worried about the vine snapping back as to what will happen to the city when we release the pressure. It could be devestating."
Angus looks to Pek. "How long will the poison take to effect the vines? Do we have time to seek cover, as I do not want to be catapulted off the roof." Angus absentmindly pats the pouch carrying his flying potion.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 40) - Bless d20+5=9 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 1:38:36 PM
The halfling cleric stands in the middle of the Shields, ready to aid any of his companions.
Belkior speaks to his companions, "I can cast Bull's Strength to help anyone climbing. Otherwise, I'll keep an eye out for any trouble heading our way."
Unfortunately, Belkior is too distracted by the tilt of the City to notice much. Spot = 9
OOC - I'm not certain how much time has passed, or even if the Bless spell is still up.
Active Effects Bless - +1 Attack & vs. Fear, 6 minutes from the escape from the warehouse
DM George Tuesday November 1st, 2005 3:40:29 PM
OOC Figure that it took 30 minutes to get to the open air level.
Florin Jadenth Tuesday November 1st, 2005 6:49:37 PM
(OOC:George and Al, thank you for sending me a copy of Florin's CS.)
Florin looks to the others and takes in a deep breath since this has been quite aways to go in his heavy armor and with all the vines making it uneasy also.
Looking out over the vines Florin thinks and nods, "It your show now Pek, if you think Wynn should go across with the poison then he's willing to go from the sounds, if you prefer to go and us take care of this end then okay also."
Florin glances back the way they came and sighs before looking towards Syr and speaking to him, "Syr, it might be a good idea to find a place we can hold up or something if we aren't done before those things cetchup finally."
Syr Tuesday November 1st, 2005 6:52:08 PM
Assessing the situation, "Hey Pek, do we have to apply the poison to the base or will doing it here affect the whole... plant? Is it even one plant? Tionel, do you know if all of these vines are from one plant or many?"
"Good point Xenia, do ya think we should tie ourselves down first?"
Xenia (HP 41/42) (2nd Illegal Post) Tuesday November 1st, 2005 7:37:20 PM
The dark rogue thinks about the situation for a bit.
"Dunno, Syr. Only time I ever been in something like this was when the City began to tip in the first place. I mean, you got the ground movin' around right. But, you also got things flying through the air. I think being tied down would be a bad thing. Good way to get crushed."
"Hate to say it. But looks to me like the best way out if things go really bad sounds like straight down. I mean, jump and hope the water is soft. I hope I'm wrong. The place used to float right? Around the lake. You ever heard that? I mean, you figure something that moves around like that has got some magic that keeps it from moving too fast and shaking everything around, huh?"
"I hope."
Lang & Sunshine d20+6=9 d20+6=22 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 9:57:21 PM
Lang & Sunshine wait to see what happens when the acid hits the vines. He hopes the pain is intense to whatever controls the vines. The joy that will bring to him is unmeasureable.
Listen 9/13 Spot 22/26
DM George Tuesday November 1st, 2005 10:09:39 PM
Pek looks at his wine skins and then at his volunteers. He scans out the shoreline and then relooks at his volunteers. He clears his throat and says, "I think this might be a rough ride but I am worried about interference from the junlge if we do it slowly. If we hit the four biggest vines all at once, then we stand a better chance. I have a fly potion that I brewed for the occassion. I plan on taking it and administering the poison from the air. Can any of you also fly? Levitate? I expect the poison to work quickly, but it could take up to a minute or longer for the vines to give way."
He smiles and hands Wynn a skin. "I need two more volunteers."
Syr Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 1:42:27 AM
Stepping forward, "I'm ground bound but I'll volunteer if need be?" The elf smiles at his own rhyme. He looks over at Angus and Tionel, the two that he knows can get off the ground.
Tionel d20+10=21 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 6:30:12 AM
"As you have seen, I can fly in animal form. But I have a few spells that may be more effective, especially since they are druid spells, that can affect these plants. And animals I can summon. But only in human form, I'm afraid," Tionel tells the alchemist. "As far as the plants... hrmm..." Tionel scans the plants, trying to figure out if they all belong to one single source, or if they are indeed many separate individuals. (Knowledge: Nature 21)
Belkior (AC 22; HP 40) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 7:37:21 AM
The halfling cleric nervously looks around at both the vines and the tile of the city.
"Ahhh ... those of us who aren't flying or administering the poison should probably get somewhere safe. Or maybe rope down."
Glancing at Florin, Belkior continues. "Just a suggestion, of course."
Continuing to look around, Belkior thinks of something else. "Ahhh ... it's too bad that we can't warn the entire City that there might be a whole lot of shaking going on, real soon."
"Before all of you head over the side, can I invoke a Prayer to Alemi to aid you in your efforts?"
Wynn [AC=21, HP=52] d20+8=19 d20+8=21 d20+8=17 d20+8=27 d20+8=13 d20+8=20 d20+8=16 d20+8=13 d20+8=25 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 7:38:18 AM
The bard takes the waterskin with it's toxic liquid, consumes his vial of Cat's Grace and begins his journey down the length of the vine. [Balance Rolls of 19, 21, 17, 27, 13, 20, 16, 13, 25 - moving half my speed would let me get over 100 feet down the vine in 9 turns]. He looks back over his shoulder "an equal portion to the base of each of 4 vines, right?" he calls back.
DM George Illegal post Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 8:22:34 AM
Pek looks at Wynn and says, "No you only need to put it on the vines that are attached to this end. Who knows whats on the other. The base of these things must be monsterous and I don't think we have enough toxin."
Angus: Mage Armor and Message Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:07:09 AM
Angus pulls out one of his scrolls (fly) and announces "I am ready. How are we going to apply the toxin and is it dangerous to us?"
Angus looks to the other shields. "We may want to take a few moments to warn any souls that are not infected with the plant disease that the city may experience some turbulence shortly. Time to find shelter or get out of town and quick."
Xenia (41/42) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:30:01 AM
Xenia worries her lower lip at the prospect of what they are about to do. The energies they may unleash just seem so ... way beyond them. Like kids playing around with a necklace of fireballs.
"Hey, um, do you really think we should be doing this?" she asks, now the full realization of the enormity of what that they are about to do rolls over her like a wave. "I mean, has anybody talked to anybody? What if, maybe, what if, like, the Overlord's got plans for bringing the City up herself? I mean, what if we wreck stuff by doing this?"
"I mean, all we got is the word of this one gnome guy who wants to test out his plant-poison-acid-stuff. No offense, Pek."
Down below on the distant strip of beach, the folks continue their fight to survive against the Crying Woods.
Oh fram.
"Oh fram ... " she says out loud. "Those folks down there need someplace to go. And quick. Lets do it."
The Seal!
"Hey Belkie. I just remembered. I got one of those Seals. You know the one you used when we were fighting the Purple Orcs? The one that made us all Fly? If this stuff works, and the city starts to go. Up or Down, you never know. I can hit the Seal and we can scram outta whatever happens."
The rogue pictures all the angles in her head.
"You know, I think if we want that to work, we all need to be upon on the wall with the guys doing the plant poisoning. Lets do it."
Xenia climbs up near the vine down which Wynn has walked. She stands ready to slap the Seal in the case the City should break into violent motion.
Wynn [Illegal Post] Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 6:13:10 PM
"So where do you want this applied?" Wynn asks with a perplexed look. "I thought you said we had to attack both ends of a vine to make it release the city.'
Lang & Sunshine d20+6=18 d20+6=20 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 7:31:50 PM
"Should we assist in the destruction of the vines by attacking the area that gets the acid with swords or axes? Or is the stuff strong enough to do the job itself?"
Lang looks for a place nearby where he can get some protection if the gnome's stuff works.
Listen 18/22 Spot 20/24
Florin Jadenth Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 9:57:09 PM
Florin looks to the others and nods as he thinks this over, "Okay, we really need to find some place safe so lets get going on this. If we have enough rope we'll work our way down if not then we find someplace safe here or even better maybe be going to that shore over there that way what happens to the float won't drowned us for sure."
DM George "Anybody ever play catapult? Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:54:00 PM
Xenia steps forward and shows Florin the seal. She explains it is of flying and it will effect the entire party. She has it held as a ready action in case the party needs it.
Some think of trying to warn the city of what they are going to try and do. They quickly realize that there is no practical way to accomplsh this. Do they go door to door in a city that housees 50,000 citizens. They realize they have to hope for the best.
Angus quaffs his flying potion, takes up a wine skin and goes to the directed vine.
Pek tells Wynn that he should attack the vine attached to the city and not worry about the other end. "I have heard that these might be attached to some really big trees. The Platinum Dragons took on a couple and had trouble. I want nothing to do with them, if the Dragons had trouble.
Pek also drinks down a potion and chooses a vine to administer his poison to. He floats over to it and prepares himelf.
Syr scrambles to the edge and gets above another vine. He prepares his wine skin.
Wynn is perched on a vine itself with his skin ready.
Pek says, "Everyone start on the count of three. One...Two...Three!" The 4 wineskin holders start pouring the contents of their skins all at the same time. The vines smoke and hiss. I primorial scream of pain and outrage comes from the jungle. It is deafening in in strength. From this range it is loud, the citizens on the beach must have been knocked over by its intensity.
As this is happening, Florin looks over and sees around 20 greenies trying to sneak up on them. He pulls his sword and shouts a warning.
One of the vines snaps or does it let go? It happens to fast to tell. The other 3 either release or snap as well. A huge tearing noise can be heard as lesser vines take the weight and fail. The city snaps free from the jungles embrace and starts quickly rocking back towards the lake direction like a pendulum.
Wynn is flung into the air and starts falling towards the water.
Xenia wisely activates her seal and all of the group finds themselves lifting off the ground as the city moves away. Xenia is glad she did because they all see the greenies, and anything else not tied down and many things that were, are flung off the top of the city hundreds of yards away into the lake.
The group feels a huge feeling of satisfaction. The have freed the city! Yes they can hear the crashing of walls as more buildings tumble, and debris is flung around, but they freed the city! That satisfaction is short lived though as the city starts rushing back towards them. Everyone needs to make a Dexterity check of 10. Ohterwise the city will hit you. When a city hits you it, stings. If you fail, take 7d10 points of damage. If you make it, you were able to fly above the city and totally avoid the damage.
OOC I realize that I pushed this post a little but this module has taken to long. Want to get it finished up and get us moving forward.
Tionel d20+2=18 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 5:39:44 AM
The main thought that goes through Tionel's head as he floats blissfully up into the air is a sense of serenity, satisfaction as the vines snap and the city is righted up. This suddenly turns into a sense of vertigo, which makes him queasy, and then into a sense of outright terror.
Woah! Nothing is scarier than seeing the ground rush up to you. Usually it's you rushing towards it, not the other way around. Tionel barely grasps the laws of physics in time to push himself with a gasp straight up, barely avoiding the tip of the city.
"Everyone okay?" he looks around plaintively, somewhat panicked...and looks at where the vines came from, worried about something emerging.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 40) d20+2=13 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:49:54 AM
The halfling cleric feels the floating feeling that comes with a Fly spell as he was being tumbled across the cobblestones on this level. He manages to right himself and weave around the chimney that was rushing towards him. It would have swatted Belkior like a small ball, throwing him far towards the jungle.
"I'm okay here, Tionel. But we better go check on everyone else."
Belkior then prepares to assist any of his companions who were unable to get out of the way of the swaying buildings.
Wynn d20+8=13 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:50:47 AM
Fascinated by the visceral reaction from the jungle, and unused to the feeling of flight, Wynn narrowly dodges the onrushing towers of the city as it swings forward [Dex =13]
Angus: Mage Armor/Message/Flying d20=10 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:00:46 AM
Angus is statisfied with the results of his handiwork and almost gets smashed by the city as it rocks backwards. Angus flys higher and listens as the cities internal building crumbles.
Angus calls out to the shields. "Wait till the City settles before landing. I hope everyone was carrying their woldly possesions, cause I think we will be hard pressed to find anything in the rubble now."
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+5=21 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:15:39 AM *snik* the seal breaks as Xenia feels the wall roll beneath her, and her hand slaps at one of the many disks on her outer thigh. The rogue lets the momentum of the city turn her into a mid-air summersault. End over end. The basin of Open Level leaving behind her. The slow motion whipping of the vines as they fall away, breaking apart in places from their own massive weight. The shore. The woods. The sky. The City receding. The vines. The shore. The woods. The sky. The City ... overshooting it's place and ...
The girl rogue grabs control of her aimless tumble. Straighten. Orient. Fly. Quickly, she climbs up and out, and feels a surge of air buffet her as Floating City swings by below with its return momentum. (Reflex 21)
Bank and turn. Xenia notes the outer limit of the City's swing, and then dives back around into the midst of her companions.
"Everyone alright?"
Florin Jadenth d20+4=10 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 10:09:55 AM
Florin is happy when he sees the city freed but quickly turns to alittle panic when the city jerks back towards him. He does his best to quickly get out of the way and is happy to just make it and not get hit by the city itself.
Florin looks to the others, "Well, that was interesting to say the least. Is everyone okay? call out if your injured."
Syr (Sub/Al) d20+5=11 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 11:19:36 AM
Syr, holding the empty wineskin, feels the ground tremble beneath him. Not good. He stands ready to jump off the edge and slow his fall for as long as possible before having to dive off into the water.
Suddenly, he feels his feet lift off the ground. The ground zips away, leaving Syr floating in the air. The elven monk marvels at the sight of the vines as they fall away to the lake below. He marvels so long, in fact, that he almost misses the mass of the city as it comes swinging back toward him.
Flatten quickly. Syr feels unyielding stone pass dangerously close to his back.
"Checking in. I'm alright, Florin," he replies. "I think. That was close." (Dex 11)
"Where to now?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+3=17 d20+6=10 d20+6=12 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:44:39 PM
Lang watches as the group applies the poison to the vines. He is amazed at the quickness that the stuff works. He is even more amazed by the pain or anger he hears from the Crying Woods.
His amazement is short lived as the violent rocking motion threatens to throw him off the Floating City. He feels the power of the magic seal course through his body.
Reaching down Lang picks up Sunshine and flies away from the Flotaing City as it rocks back towards them (Dex check 17).
He looks towards the beach to see if anything decides to retaliate for the damage they have done.
Spot 10/14 Listen 12/16
Spells: Speak with Animals (not cast) Longstrider (cast, not active)
DM George 7d10(3+9+5+8+7+1+3)=36 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 9:21:02 PM
Most of the Crimson Shields quickly soar into the sky gaining enough height to avoid the city's backlash as it settles back into the lake. Angus doesn't get the required height but successfully dodges past the open level's buildings.
Florin isn't so lucky. He flies up and up but just can't get out of the way and he is hit by the top of one of the buildings. It smashes into him and flips him summersaulting through the air. He is finally able to get control of himself but feels like one giant bruise. He takes 36 points of damage. (OOC Sorry Justin, but Florin is in 1/2 plate, which doesn't allow any dexterity modifiers. You rolled a 6.
The city rocks back and forth several more times but each sway is less dramatic than the one before. The group winces as they hear debris falling and buildings collapsing inside the city but are relieved when they think that most of the population is inside the city. They are brought out of their thoughts to hear thousands of voices cheering them from the shore. When they look they see people on the beach jumping, waving, and pointing in their direction.
Syr expresses a question that all have to pause and think about, "What now?" Where will the group go to now? Will they head to the Plateau City to find out about the orphans? Will they try to dig out their home to find lost belongings? Will they head to the beach and join the battle against the jungle? Can the city now be moved out into the lake?
OOC Guys, need a direction you want to go to make the next module. Please discuss it over the next couple of days and then come to a concensus by Monday. I am not writing this one due to time constraints and won't be able to improvise as much.
Wynn Thursday November 3rd, 2005 11:09:44 PM
Wynn looks about to see that all of his companions are safe before letting out a relieved breath. "Perhaps Lorbius and the Lady Celine have had some success with the Underlord and they can move the city. Let's see if we can find Prionel and return him to the jungle to join his folk. Maybe they can calm the Crying Woods."
Florin Jadenth Friday November 4th, 2005 12:12:00 AM
(OOC:sorry George, I forgot about the armor penalties. Didn't load up my sheet to get hitpoints but will post them next post just incase we run into more combat.)
Florin glances overh is armor and is thankful that it's magical and probably has less damage then he does. He'll have to check it out more later. He does his best to listen to his friends while working out the pain of being hit by a whole city.
After many moments Florin speaks up, able to finally calm the aching, "You have a good idea Wynn. Listen everyone, we better check on what Wynn commented on I think and go from there. It might be a good idea to get the stuff from your appartment so we are ready to travel and get a better idea of what we lost and such. I don't think we'll beable to replace anything to soon considering all this and we didn't really fight nothing with money or anything. However I would like to comment that we don't know what problems where the kids went to is going through so we might want to check on them also when we can.:
Florin moves over towards Xenia, wincing as the bruises give him some trouble and places a hand on the rogue's shoulder before speaking to her, "Good job on the seal Xenia. You probably just saved alot of our lives."
(OOC:Probably should put this in email but anyway. I personally think once we find out about the stuff at the apartment and check on the Float and all we should head off to see the kids and make sure their safe. Right now alot of clean up and fixing will be going on at the Float mainly once everything gets calmed down and it will give our character's time to see stuff beyond the Float since Florin atleast has never been out of the Float farther then the crying woods anyway.)
Tionel Friday November 4th, 2005 4:38:54 AM
"I agree with Florin. Our first priority is to return to make sure people are okay. Once we've made sure that the orphans are okay, it might be a good thing to start thinking about coming back to the jungle. For all we know, the elves might need help... they certainly seem to know the most about nature and dealing with Sabara. But first, we should clean up home a bit."
Belkior 3d8(4+4+2)+7=17 2d8(2+1)+7=10 d8=4 d8+5=7 Friday November 4th, 2005 7:21:31 AM
The halfling cleric moves over to Florin with a look of concern on his face.
"Florin, can you hear me? How many fingers am I holding up?"
Belkior holds up two fingers.
"Let me look at your eyes, please. Any headaches? Ringing in the ears ... after you take off your helm, that is. Ahhh ... nausea, anything like that?"
Belkior then pauses to call upon the healing powers granted him by Alemi. After doing so three times, Florin is completely healed.
While he has been healing, Belkior has been listening to the discussion.
"I agree with you, Florin, and Tionel. From what you told us, the apartment is probably gone but if anyone left anything there it may be possible to find it in the rubble."
"After that, we should check on the orphans in Plateau City. If the teleporter is working, of course. We should probably decide if they will come back here, and when."
"Doing something about Prionel and the Forest woudl probably be next on the list. Especially if the City moves again."
Xenia (41/42) Friday November 4th, 2005 10:28:15 AM
Xenia zips down toward the bowl of the Open Level. At speed, she makes a pass over the surface before executing a banking turn and speeding back up to the others.
"Well, if we're gonna check out the city, might be best to do it now while we can still fly. It's faster. And I bet there's lotta stuff down on the streets blocking the way. We got ten minutes."
The dark girl sighs and casts her green eyes back toward the city.
"Though, you know, I dunno how good folks are gonna be that stayed in there. That's a lot of shaking up."
"OH STARS!!! Happy! Happy was in there! Fram and fram framble!" She jets away, arms at her side, shooting toward the nearest stairwell like an arrow in flight.
Angus: Amge Armor/message/Flying Friday November 4th, 2005 1:11:29 PM
Once Angus sees that Florin survies his contact with the building he calls all of the Shields together. "Lets see if we can render aid to those that that to experience the rocking of the City." Seeing Xenia take off, Angus comments to no one in particular "That girls got the right idea."
Angus flys off down into the depths of the city attempting to catch up to Xenia. Once reaching Xenia Angus comments "After we do all we can hear, we need to check on the kids and make sure they are looked after."
Syr (Sub/Al) Friday November 4th, 2005 4:58:26 PM
Syr nods to Florin. "We should recover the money we've been saving for Resurrection. I don't think it would be difficult to dig down to the secret hiding place."
The monk suppresses the urge to roll his eyes as Xenia takes off ahead of the group.
"I think she's right though. You'd have to be pretty tough or pretty lucky to survive inside the city with it swinging around like it just did. Maybe both tough and lucky. I don't know if we're going to find Prionel still alive."
DM George Friday November 4th, 2005 5:10:21 PM
OOC Please give me a list of everything you will be trying to recover from the apartment.
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Saturday November 5th, 2005 12:11:57 AM
Lang moves with the rest of the group as they fly towards the Giggling Ghost. He agrees that the group should recover its money after it checks on Happy at the inn. Perhaps they will be able to help other people as they move towards their old apartment.
All items except shield are in a chest in my room. The shield was on the wall by my bed and chest.
Spells: Speak with Animals (not cast) Longstrider (cast, not active)
Wynn Sunday November 6th, 2005 5:56:19 PM
Before the bard can further argue for the freeing of Prionel he finds himself chasing after Xenia as she makes her way to whatever is left of the apartment. The flying quickly becomes second nature as he swoops through the narrow streets. Exhilarated by the feeling, Wynn streaks through larger openings in the ruined buildings, trying to outpace the others on the way to the apartments. "Wahoo!!"
[OOC Wynn has nothing left at the apartment other than a winter blanket]
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