Valdor d20=3 Saturday November 19th, 2005 2:11:00 AM
Valdor remains tense and whispers to Dahlia,"I just know. Trust me on it. It's Caeroldra's fault, though. She shouldn't have had me leave her at some stupid temple."
He notices nothing, and doesn't seem to be really focusing on it. His mind is going all sorts of directions at the moment, and his face clearly shows it. His eyes are wild...for him anyway. The fierce intensity replaced by a haunted, distant look.
Corialote d20+14=32 d20+14=31 d20+39=53 d20+39=50 d20+24=35 d20+34=35 d20+34=45 d20+34=47 d20+20=23 Saturday November 19th, 2005 4:42:35 PM
Cori watches the flickering images in the water as they pass by. She studies all of it in turn as she tries to get a grasp on anything that sparks her memories.
As the image solidifies and they are traveling down the hall she studies the surrounding area, the undead soldiers and the insignias that they wear for recognition. At last they come to the large door with the lock and she turns he attention to Myrradin. "I can but try." She falls into another spell as he holds the spell in place. She brings her hand down just over top of the water as she intones the last word in draconic. She does not feel very confident about her casting and if this works has an idea that this is a trap all the way around. "I am not sure if that is enough." She is drained a little from the more powerful magics she has been casting but knows that she cannot give up yet.
[greater scrying] [greater dispel magic - 23]
[spot 32/31 and spellcraft 53/50] [Know(royalty) for the insignia 35] [Know(history) for the insignia, castle and the undead soldier 35/45/47]
Spells 0th(04): detect magic, flare, touch of fatigue(2) 1st(10): shield(2), grease(2), identify(2), true strike(4) 2nd(10): melf's acid arrow(3), see invisiblity, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2), blur(2) 3rd(10): dispel magic(2), displacement(2), haste(2), slow(2), hold person(2) 4th(08): stoneskin(4), greater invisibity(2), wall of fire(2) 5th(05): feeblemind, passwall, hold monster, cone of cold(2) 6th(08): greater dispel magic(2)*, chain lightning(2), shadow walk(2), mass bull's strength, acid fog 7th(08): greater scrying*, mass hold person, summon monster VII(3), phase door, mordenkainen's sword(2) 8th(05): polar ray(2), summon monster VIII(2), incendiary cloud 9th(05): summon monster IX(2), shapechange(2), time stop * used
Dahlia d20+26=45 d20+30=44 Sunday November 20th, 2005 8:13:43 AM
Not knowing if it will work, as she is not physically present, Dahlia does a visual inspection of the door, particularly looking for traps. search (Skill mastery) 45, spot 44. When done she relays her info as she finds it.
Into the Vault (DM Stephen) d100=20 d100=52 d100=6 d100=18 d100=36 Monday November 21st, 2005 9:18:51 PM
The magical ward surrounding the door flickers a bit from the blast of anti-magic from Corialote. Myrridan's sensor slips by before the protective ward snaps back into place. A mere second is all that was needed apparently. Myrridan flashes a brief smile to Corialote.
Corialote also notices a few other things before getting to the door. The zombie-like soldiers look to have been elven in life. The insignias and slight touch of green color that remains on their uniforms indicates these creatures were once soldiers from the Emerald Kingdom!!
Also both Myrridan and Corialote seem to realize that this Greater Scry is acting most unusual. All the images fading in and out indicates that their are other magics involved, redirecting the sensor to different locations. Someone else out there could be helping or hindering your scrying attempt.
Dahlia looks over the door and the mechanism keeping it locked. You've seen its type before. Its difficult but you think you can open it. As for traps, its impossible to determined if its magical trapped from this remote location, but you do see signs of tampering. You feel a very strong sense that the door is trapped, or was trapped at one time. Again, it being hard to determine this through the pool of water.
Inside your worst horrors are realized. There are several tables. On each table lies one of your loved ones. The dont appear to be conscious or breathing. Undead "nurses" attend to them by apply oils and wave censors billowing smoke around them. Runes glow along the walls. No one appears alive. The only light in the room, besides the glowing runes, is a huge crystal in the center of the room. It glows a bright purple light. You get a sense that life dwells within it, the only place you've seen it so far in this place.
Ebyeron speaks up. "What is that there? Another sensor!! Someone else is watching them!" No one else can see this sensor. Myrridan begins another divination, hoping to reveal the other sensor to him.
Valdor Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 12:24:36 PM
If Valdor looked slightly crazy before, seeing his beloved daughter laying seemingly dead, or undead, on a table sends him completely over the edge.
He says in a shrill voice,"I want to know where they are! And I want to know NOW! Myrridan, find out. By all that holy, I'll kill every being that is responsible...and there friends and family. I will leave noone alive."
He starts pacing impatiently...like a caged animal.
Corialote d20+14=26 d20+39=49 Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 2:16:36 AM
Cori lets her eyes wander over the area of the inside room they got into. She tries to make out any details that may help in the locating of this location.
She looks up at Ebyeron as he mentions the other sensor and she lets her keener amge abilities see if she can spot some sort of magic herself. Then she spots her former teacher and clenches her fists together as she keeps her concentration on what she must do.
Inside though she is reeling with the idea that someone would have defiled the body of her former master. She is sure that he died but there was never any body to lay to rest and she starts to wonder a little. "Does anyone recognize anything around there...it would help out?"
[spot 26 and spellcraft 49]
[greater scrying]
Spells 0th(04): detect magic, flare, touch of fatigue(2) 1st(10): shield(2), grease(2), identify(2), true strike(4) 2nd(10): melf's acid arrow(3), see invisiblity, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2), blur(2) 3rd(10): dispel magic(2), displacement(2), haste(2), slow(2), hold person(2) 4th(08): stoneskin(4), greater invisibity(2), wall of fire(2) 5th(05): feeblemind, passwall, hold monster, cone of cold(2) 6th(08): greater dispel magic(2)*, chain lightning(2), shadow walk(2), mass bull's strength, acid fog 7th(08): greater scrying*, mass hold person, summon monster VII(3), phase door, mordenkainen's sword(2) 8th(05): polar ray(2), summon monster VIII(2), incendiary cloud 9th(05): summon monster IX(2), shapechange(2), time stop * used
Dahlia Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 8:13:39 AM
well, the good news is that if ee get where ever this is, I can get us through that door. It looks like it is trapped or was but I can't tell for sure through this spell.
Valdor Thursday November 24th, 2005 12:11:03 AM
Valdor stops in mid stride and asks Eberyon,"You've been all over the Wold lately. Where is the place we see in the pool? Surely you have seen it, or can at least give us the general area."
He begins pacing again, as if he never stopped at all.
BigTim ADM Thursday November 24th, 2005 2:28:16 PM
**ooc, I have a Question. is there only 4 active players in this game? If not, how come the other players havent posted in over a week?**
(Valdor, Mordrid, Dahlia, Myrridan, and Cori are the only active characters at the moment. Nonam is kind of in, but JK has a hectic schedule, Onrad, Nick, and Gareth are on walkabout-DM vacation , and I think that about sums it up. Anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong- SteveH)
((~~Jan~~ Nick is back in two weeks :) ))
Keen Eyes (DM Stephen) d100=71 d100=5 d100=19 Monday November 28th, 2005 9:38:51 PM
"I'll try Valdor," exclaims Myrridan. With Corialote's help the pool shifts and ripples and a new image begins to form in the waters. She didnt notice any recognizable sign of her old master, but on one of the tables was a pile of ash. The black, powder-like ash was poured out in a humanoid shape. Several canopic-style jars set near the head area. It could possibly be the remains of her master.
Valdor questions Eberyon about the location. "I don't know this place pictured in the water. As you can see, it is made from man and not by nature. Its artifical and Ive never been there before. All I can tell you with simple observation is the kind of stone the walls are made from and the families of vermin present, and the silt covering the floor of the crypt ... my, I surprised that you did not notice it too. Arent you watching?" Eberyon points out his observations until they're gone from sight. "And dont your remember seeing krysonilia mold growing in the cracks and mortar. There must be concentrated travatine and high levels of suffulia and crimsosium. Which obviously means the presence of tiny microres which only exist in few places in the Wold. One of these places would be 30 to 120 feet before the ground in the area you call the Emerald Kingdom. Which makes sense, due to the undead elves that are walking around. I dont know too many elves inhabiting the islands of the taurs. No, definitely not the islands of the taurs! Or that other place either!" Ebyeron continues on muttering to himself.
(Post will be continued later tonight. I have to get off right now.)
Valdor Tuesday November 29th, 2005 12:43:56 AM
Valdor looks at Eberyon as if he from another land and speaking a completely alien tongue. He says,"While it's obvious it's man-made, I couldn't repeat what you just said if my life depended on it. Not all of us have your astute vision and understanding of such things as travaltine...or whatever you called it."
He nods at Myrridan in thanks for his effort then goes back to pacing, only occasionally looking into the pool.
The other place with a face. (DM Stephen) Tuesday November 29th, 2005 1:54:05 AM
The pool begins to come into focus. You all notice that you're peering upward through a crystal sphere at a gaunt, wrinkled face. One eye appears to be missing. Just an empty socket remains. The hood of his cloak obscures the rest of his boney head. A few long grey hairs still remain and they hang lifelessly down both sides of his face. He looks disgusting and vile. You've all looked upon his kind before, a lich. A deep and ancient voice speaks softly from another corner that's not currently in view.
"Are they secure, Wormrot."
The lich staring back at you, but not at you, answers, "Yessss, masterr. They are all securre and being prepared by myyy servanttss."
"Good work, Wormrot. You will be rewarded for your efforts."
"Thank youuu, mastterrr. Hee hee, but may I askkk whyy? Why do provoke themm. They be powerfulll. Thiss would certainlyy earn you their wrathhh."
"Yes, it would. Believe me, Ive earned their wrath many times. Its inevitable. At least now, I have some leverage to bend their wills. Its all a game you know."
"Yesss, I know. Walking a tight rope betweeen life and deathhh is nothingg neew to meee. Hee heee hee."
The sensor spins around to reveal the other voice. To your surprise, you see the face of Parnoth staring back at you. A sneer of grim satisfaction on his face. And he says, "Yes, that's a good analogy. My life has been nothing but a tight rope walk and these few unfortunate souls are now my safety net."
Dahlia Tuesday November 29th, 2005 4:51:54 PM
String into the vision Dahlia's Jaw litterally goes slack for a moment as Parnoth's visage comes clear.
"Whoa!! Parnoth wouldn't... He isn't.... He couldn't possibly be that...."
"Wait a minute there is no way Parnoth would be so stupid as to let himself be seen in a scrying. That is his forte in magic as I recall. And I know he can't possibly think he cand defeat us? Myrridan, is there any way of telling if waht we just saw was real or illusion?"
Corialote Tuesday November 29th, 2005 5:29:51 PM
Cori looks back to the others and shrugs her shoulders. She knows only a little about Parnoth..but nothing good. "It could be that he wants us to know...to distract us from something or to put us off guard." He brow wrinkles as she ponders all that she has seen so far and then shakes her head. "It would not be beyond him to have powerful allies in his pocket...he could be tougher than you give him credit for...most definitely more devious."
As she goes through her spells she shakes her head sadly as she knows she has nothing to see through illusion this time. "I have nothing to see through illusions...." She cannot think of anything else that may help out really...she has always favored more combat oriented spells.
Spells 0th(04): detect magic, flare, touch of fatigue(2) 1st(10): shield(2), grease(2), identify(2), true strike(4) 2nd(10): melf's acid arrow(3), see invisiblity, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2), blur(2) 3rd(10): dispel magic(2), displacement(2), haste(2), slow(2), hold person(2) 4th(08): stoneskin(4), greater invisibity(2), wall of fire(2) 5th(05): feeblemind, passwall, hold monster, cone of cold(2) 6th(08): greater dispel magic(2)*, chain lightning(2), shadow walk(2), mass bull's strength, acid fog 7th(08): greater scrying*, mass hold person, summon monster VII(3), phase door, mordenkainen's sword(2) 8th(05): polar ray(2), summon monster VIII(2), incendiary cloud 9th(05): summon monster IX(2), shapechange(2), time stop * used
Valdor Tuesday November 29th, 2005 11:25:56 PM
Valdor halts his pacing when the scene unfolds. He stares at the waters, being rather quiet. He looks over to Mordrid and says,"I told you years ago I should have killed him. Then we rescued him, now he's turned on us again...if, in fact, that is Parnoth. He could be in league with Korrig. I certainly wouldn't put that past him.
The truth is, we won't find out the truth standing here. I am ready to go. Eberyon, can you send us back, or do we need to find our own way?"
He waits for an answer, then speaks into his earpiece and says,"Gareth, Nonam, Onrad, Nick, Tericus...we have a scary situation that we may need your help on. If you have taken care of your family issues, we could sure use your help. It seems it's time for Parnoth to die. He has taken several of our loved ones captive and is turning them into liches, including my daughter. Please let me know if you can help. We'll be back home soon."
He waits for Myrridan and Cori to finish their work before saying anything else.
ADM - BigTim Wednesday November 30th, 2005 11:19:10 AM
looking over at Valdor, Eberyon responds saying: my magics are coming back, but slowly. I should have enough in me to send everyone to 1 location. Choose that location now.
and as soon as the face of Parnoth is seen in the pool of water, it is gone, as the water begins to boil, and dries up.
ADM - BigTim Wednesday November 30th, 2005 11:21:58 AM
I promise my next posting to have more flair in it. Told stephen i'd take over for a bit and am getting into the swing of the module.
Sides, everyone will notice im to the point kind of person.
1 more thing, it is imperative that Everyone who is still active on board start posting everyday.
(Since when have you been straight to the point? Is this a new Big Tim? Just kidding, old buddy. Glad to have you on board.
Stephen and Jerry, thanks for the good DMing these past few months.)
Dahlia Wednesday November 30th, 2005 9:02:51 PM
Shrugging the little halfling looks around at the others. " Well after Flame and all the others, Parnoth will seem tame. Not necessarily easy, but tame.'
Valdor Thursday December 1st, 2005 1:09:27 AM
Valdor replies to Dahlia,"At least with Flame, we knew our enemy. He never played the games the Green Lizard plays. Where do we want to go? I'm ready if everyone else is. The Float or Plateau City, or a part of the Emerald Kingdom? I don't suggest that, as he will have means of detecting teleporting into his realm. He also has spies everywhere in there. Even animals that we would never even see."
ADM - BigTim Thursday December 1st, 2005 8:58:11 AM
Ill wait til this evening to make my post. only 2 people posting is sad, for the game everyone expects great things from, really sad.
Corialote Thursday December 1st, 2005 1:31:47 PM
Cori shrugs as she watches the pool of water dry up. "You decide on an attach plan and I will try to have spells of use." She then thinks over the idea of where to go and shrugs again. "Which place would be better to stage a strike from?" She is not too sure what they have planed so is not sure which place would be best. "I would think that the Float would not be a good idea though...not with their problems."
She laughs lightly as she looks to Valdor and nods. "So we maybe able to use a teleport to draw his attention to someplace else...not that I would hope it would work, but...." She leaves it hanging as she goes over some spells in her mind. "Ok...what type of spells do you suppose will come in more useful...summoned monster, attack spells or defense spells?" She wants to get a little input as she has never fought this dragon before. "Just trying to get an idea of what type of tactics to expect so that I can try and counter some of them."
Spells 0th(04): detect magic, flare, touch of fatigue(2) 1st(10): shield(2), grease(2), identify(2), true strike(4) 2nd(10): melf's acid arrow(3), see invisiblity, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2), blur(2) 3rd(10): dispel magic(2), displacement(2), haste(2), slow(2), hold person(2) 4th(08): stoneskin(4), greater invisibity(2), wall of fire(2) 5th(05): feeblemind, passwall, hold monster, cone of cold(2) 6th(08): greater dispel magic(2)*, chain lightning(2), shadow walk(2), mass bull's strength, acid fog 7th(08): greater scrying*, mass hold person, summon monster VII(3), phase door, mordenkainen's sword(2) 8th(05): polar ray(2), summon monster VIII(2), incendiary cloud 9th(05): summon monster IX(2), shapechange(2), time stop * used
ADM - BigTim Thursday December 1st, 2005 8:52:05 PM
Eberyon sits there, listening, watching, waiting. Have you made a decision as to where you wish to go?
Valdor Friday December 2nd, 2005 12:42:35 AM
Valdor answers Cori saying,"Well, in my experience, which in this case is considerable, offense and lots of it is necessary. There will be traps aplenty going in, but of course, we have an excellent finder of traps...one of the very best I might add. Stealth is important at first, to bypass any of his minions, so he won't have too much time to prepare. He won't know when we are coming, so hopefully, he won't have too many spells prepared directly for us.
But we need to rest first, and try to see if we can collect any of the others. Our castle would be nice, but it will be being watched and he will know we will be coming. We need to go somewhere out of the norm to rest. We have two major teleport rings now, so we can go anywhere. But where to go? How about Windhorn Hamlet. Only Mordrid and I will be known, and we can stay hidden there for the night, then we can plan. Any objections?"
Dahlia Friday December 2nd, 2005 5:31:03 PM
What about Popping into the Tree of Parting, Maybe Folbre's Inn? There is all kinds of traffic there and we could probably avoid direct location from him.
Valdor Friday December 2nd, 2005 6:37:03 PM
"I was just thinking about a place where we all were less known. Mordrid and I are well known there, but can keep completely out of sight. They wouldn't know most of you there, unless you've been through there recently.
You could arrange the rooms and food, and Mordrid and I would keep invisible or hidden from sight. Don't want to go anywhere with a lot of traffic and people from all over the Wold...just in case."
He seems to be thinking like himself, but he still has a glaze n his eyes that reminds you that he's probably just reacting and responding on instinct. He seems to be miles away by the blank look on his face.
Corialote Friday December 2nd, 2005 9:30:01 PM
Cori's face takes on a sly grin as she speaks. "Well there is always the Sargrass and that remote land of Ice Vein?" She smothers a laugh with her hand as she waits to see what the response will be. She thinks that neither will be a good idea...one being so cold and the other being so hot...but still it is a possibility.
With a slightly more serious look on her face she points out the obvious. "Both would allow for all of us to hide for a time...I am sure that none of us are too well known there...at least by appearance."
Spells 0th(04): detect magic, flare, touch of fatigue(2) 1st(10): shield(2), grease(2), identify(2), true strike(4) 2nd(10): melf's acid arrow(3), see invisiblity, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2), blur(2) 3rd(10): dispel magic(2), displacement(2), haste(2), slow(2), hold person(2) 4th(08): stoneskin(4), greater invisibity(2), wall of fire(2) 5th(05): feeblemind, passwall, hold monster, cone of cold(2) 6th(08): greater dispel magic(2)*, chain lightning(2), shadow walk(2), mass bull's strength, acid fog 7th(08): greater scrying*, mass hold person, summon monster VII(3), phase door, mordenkainen's sword(2) 8th(05): polar ray(2), summon monster VIII(2), incendiary cloud 9th(05): summon monster IX(2), shapechange(2), time stop * used
Dahlia Sunday December 4th, 2005 1:54:17 PM
While I wouldn't mind making a trip to either one of those places Cori, I don't believe we are trying to hide so much as to avoid detection as we sneak up on the Big Green Meanie.
Scott Sunday December 4th, 2005 11:59:13 PM
Sorry guys, I had a fire in my apartment complex in Fort Worth over Thanksgiving. I have been without computer since. I will read to catch up as fast as i can and begin posting. Most unfortunate for many reasons, one being that Korrig is a story line i would have loved a part of.
Mordrid Monday December 5th, 2005 11:45:40 AM
Mordrid steps from the shadows where he has been listening carefully to his companions. Turning the Ostonian silver piece in his hand, he looks up at the others.
"This is a simple riddle. If Parnoth is who we seek... and yet we know not where he waits... we should seek his treasure hoard. Make him come to us. And we DO know where he keeps his treasure."
"I would begin praying to Gargul for mercy on the souls of the departed. Only he can truly stop what has been started. You must let it pass into his hands."
"Otherwise Parnoth will use your loved ones as leverage. And you will be defeated. His gold versus their lives... who will crack first?"
This is said as a challenge to Valdor; the ranger looks at the warrior with a sideways glance. Holding the look... as the question remains in the air. "Will you my friend allow your emotions to be the victor this day?"
The ranger drops the question and moves to the next point, "I agree with Dahlia. I say we move now to the Tree of Parting."
Valdor Monday December 5th, 2005 8:51:02 PM
Valdor stares at Mordrid...his eyes gazing past the Ranger as if seeing through and beyond him. Mordrid hasn't ever seen such a crazed look on his face before. Angry, yes. But this look...it borders on insanity. Quite the opposite of his normal approach to things. So, Mordrid has his answer, even though no words are spoken.
As is the case with most crazy people, Valdor pops a question in out of seemingly nowehre and asks,"Well, have we decided where to go next? It's been about a hundred years since I've eaten, and I'm exhausted."
Corialote Monday December 5th, 2005 11:58:52 PM
Cori just nods her head and then stares at the rest. "My former Master is dead...he would not want to be brought back like this." She shakes slightly as she looks to the rest and then takes a deep settling breathe. "Whatever he has of him now is nothing but a shell." With a last look to those around she takes back out the ring and turns it in her hand. "To the tree than...then to the horde...I say we make it hurt." This last is said through gritted teeth, almost spit out really.
ADM - BigTim Tuesday December 6th, 2005 12:26:34 AM
will post tomorrow, am beat plus i need to familiarize myself with your incoming location. getting tired of these 1 line posts of mine.
Mordrid Tuesday December 6th, 2005 1:46:44 AM
Mordrid pulls away from Valdor's hurtful gaze. He can't believe what he is seeing. The warrior has been pushed further than his heart can take him. A huge shudder fills the ranger, as he realizes that he must burden things for a bit.
After turning away for a minute, he then faces Corialote who is preparing with her ring. Nodding, he agrees to get the wheels turning in a forward direction.
"Don't worry Cori. Justice will be served."
Mordrid heaves his pack onto his back and walks over to Valdor. Getting involved in Valdor's bindings, "Let's get you secured."
Whispered, "Don't worry brother... its all just a dream."
Myrridan Tuesday December 6th, 2005 8:37:23 PM
"We all could arrive at this Parting Tree in animal form. We would then avoid detection and move to a more secluded location. I've only heard of this Parting Tree, I dont recall ever being there. But it's always peaked my interest visit but Ive never found the time."
Myrridan then removes a small vial of oil from his belt pouch. He drips a few drops of the yellowish oil into his hand while chanting a few druidic words (casting True Seeing). When he finishes is incantation, he rubs the ointment onto his eyes. "Valdor, Im sorry to say that this Parnoth looks authentic. The lich too. Though he is far more decayed than he lets on. I even see Parnoth's true dragon form, in a ghosty mist around his human facade. Unless there are more powerful magiks at work here that can fool my true sight. And there arent many that can!"
Wha? Huh! (DM Stephen) d100=3 d100=25 d100=61 d100=27 d100=58 d6=1 d6=2 d6=1 d6=3 d6=3 d6=2 d20+19=29 d20+19=30 d20+19=24 d20+19=28 Tuesday December 6th, 2005 9:23:59 PM
The scene of Parnoth and Wormrot continues on as the party plans their next move. Then suddenly Parnoth stares directly into the sensor and says, "I think they've seen enough. Its time we close the shutters to these prying eyes."
"WHATT!! The PLATINUUMS see us!! HOW DAAARE YOUUU ALLOW THEM TO SEE MEEE!!" gasps Wormrot. "The DEAL was tooo keep meee secret!!"
"I never made such a deal. You are more than welcome to stay here with us, under my protection, of course."
"BAAHHH! YOU ONLY WANT MEEE TOOO PROTE ...!!" yells a furious Wormrot as the image of them both in the water ends. The pool goes black, the magic dispelled. ----------------------
Meanwhile!!
Father Nick returns to Plateau City from helping out at the Floating City. While having dinner at one of the local pubs that had recently re-opened after the floods (leaving a sizeable tip to help the owners continued recovery, of course) He meets with an old acquaintance he hadnt seen in years, Ve Mundr, a devout follower of Domi.
They both decide to head back to Gold Dragon castle as soon as it began to turn dark. A curfew had been inacted throughout Plateau City to keep looting to a minimum. The cities recovery was coming along, but there are those who still wish to take advantage of the lowering flood waters. And even though city guards would be more than willing to look the other way if they saw Father Nick and Ve Mundr walking about after hours, the two clerics decide to make a proper example for others to follow.
Along the way, down a darkened and empty alley, four humanoid figures suddenly appear 60 feet ahead of Father Nick and Ve Mundr. All they can see is their shadowy outlines in the foggy mist. They stand there in your way, unyeilding. Is that the glint of steel in their hands?
(Daniel, I dont know how to recreate the accent mark in your name.)
Stephen ooc: Tuesday December 6th, 2005 9:34:05 PM
Sorry for the lousy posting. Been busy trying to make some extra holiday income so I can actually buy gifts this year. Will try and post better now.
Nick Valentine Hello everyone! It's good to be back! Wednesday December 7th, 2005 12:10:53 AM
"I suspect it'll take quite a while for the city to get back to normal," Nick says, quietly making small talk as he and Ve Mundr walk in the direction of Gold Dragon Castle. "With a bit of luck the others will be back now, and I'd like you to meet them. I think -" He stops, seeing the shadowy figures ahead and glances uneasily at Ve Mundr. Now what?
"Hail!" he calls ahead. "Are you in need of aid?"
Valdor Wednesday December 7th, 2005 12:50:01 AM
Valdor shrugs his shoulders. He hardly notices Mordrid's assistance, but doesn't offer any resistance to it either.
In a rather monotone voice he says,"Well, if he already knows we're on to him, our castle would be a better place. He knows we're going to be coming, he just won't know exactly when. Thanks Myrridan, for the confirmation."
He glances up at Mordrid and says with no hostility in his voice,"You should've let me go kill that sorry slime ridden lizard when I wanted to all those years back. But it's past now and it's time for him to die."
His eyes are a bit more focused, but he still has little ambition or excitement on his face, which has always been present before. His shoulders slump in a very un-Valdor-like manner, as if he's already defeated. He simply waits for the ring.
Vé Mundr d20+14=15 d20+21=26 Wednesday December 7th, 2005 9:03:44 AM
The wreckage of the city still stings the cleric who has heard the call of Domi to protect those he may. Rogues and unscrupolous individuals have been taking full charge of the chaos for some time now. But soon he will be inside the famed Dragon Castle and at personal invitation from Father Nick. For some time he has been expecting Father Nick to approach him, but his stomach still if full of butterfies. There would be alot to live up to in the first encounter, both for him and the 'Dragons'.
"I have been looking forward to my return to the city since Domi bid my return and I admit the hope of your invitation today in accompanying you to the castle carries most of the respocibility of that excitement. The city will take a very long time indeed."
The men step from the shadows. "A very long time indeed." his voice drops to more of a growl and his eyes narrow. "Preying on the helpless, but not so this time Domi."
Vé calls out just after Father Nick, "It is approaching the curfew, you should be travelling home."
Vé is delaying and will counter the first hostile spell coming in at he and Father Nick. [Spot 15 Spellcraft 26]
Mordrid Wednesday December 7th, 2005 11:30:46 AM
Mordrid is releaved to hear Valdor admit they all needed rest.
Turning to face the others; he scans across their faces, "I agree. It would be wise to go to the castle and rest. We haven't stopped for food in days. And I'm sure the casters could use the rest and time to prepair new spells."
Then Valdor makes a remark aimed at the ranger. Mordrid cooly responds, "You old fool. I never stopped you from killing anything in your entire life. Besides, if you would have allowed me to kill the children, Joe would not have gone mad."
"Let's go eat!" said to all.
Valdor d20=19 Wednesday December 7th, 2005 12:21:03 PM
Valdor's face breaks out into a smile and he says,"Joe was always a bit crazy. And who's old? I'm a pup. You're the one..."
He stops as he realizes he's about to insult his lifelong best friend in a way that might be taken wrong.
"Yes, rest it is, but not for long. It's time to take out some of the major players for evil in the Wold. I've never liked mind games, and it seems Parnoth has been playing one for a long time at our expense. Cori, we shouldn't probably use the ring here. We might end up in the Shadowlands. I trust Eberyon to send us back. Will you do the honors old King?"
Corialote Wednesday December 7th, 2005 7:14:16 PM
Cori looks to the ring in her hand and then slips it back into the pouch on her belt. "I doubt my master's old ring would have any magic in it...though it might have at one time." She ponders that for a few minutes as she tries to remember if the ring was magical in anyway.
With a nod of her head she looks to the Fae King. "To tell the truth I could use some food and rest...not sure in which order but most definitely both of them." She gently works out some of the kinks in her muscles as she waits for the return to the castle.
Dahlia Wednesday December 7th, 2005 7:49:08 PM
It alarmed her to see Valdor in such a state and uncharacteristicly for her she moves off to one side silent and broody, when mention of going back to the Castle for a bit comes up, she chimes in. Well if we are looking for rest then home it is....
"Poof" you all feel the gut-wrenching feeling of a powerful conjuration spell snaping into existence. You all fall through space and time, spinning and twirling through nothing and everything. You've all experienced this countless times before, but you werent expecting it so quickly or violently. You have the uneasy feeling that you're trapped inside a speeding carriage with the driver not particularly paying too much attention to the road ahead.
Suddenly you all plunge back to the prime material, splashing into cold, hard reality. You all are still standing, or sitting, in the same positions you were in when you left the theatre. Myrridan and Corialote are still on the ground, sans the divining pool. Valdor finds himself standing in an alley that he recognizes to be near his castle. He also notices that he's also standing between Father Nick, his companion (Vé Mundr) and four other dark figures on the opposite side of the alley. Mordrid finds himself on the roof of a building, overlooking the alley two levels up. Dahlia finds herself standing on a window ledge just five feet above the alley. Her foot nudges a small flower pot off the ledge and it begins its fall. (Reflex save DC 26 to catch it if you wish. Reflex 36 to catch it with acrobatic flair :)
The four robed individuals dont say a word or respond to Nick's or Vé Mundr's calls. Their body language suggests surprise and shock with the Platinum's sudden appearance. Otherwise they take no action, but they seem somewhat apprehensive.
Nick How many pieces of flair are we allowed? ;) Thursday December 8th, 2005 1:05:02 AM
Nick takes a sharp step back, followed by another, a reaction to the air displacement as Valdor appears right in front of him. He makes a gesture toward Ve, one that implores his fellow cleric to stay his hand for a moment. Nick would probably recognize his leader in a pitch black room, but although Valdor was a familiar figure to most folk - it WAS dark and misty. Were the others here, too? (I'm assuming the others are behind or in peripheral vision.) "Valdor, we've got company, ahead of us" he says quickly. There would be time for niceties and introductions later.
Mordrid Thursday December 8th, 2005 10:58:40 AM
Mordrid comes into existance on the incline of a clay tiled roof; which promptly turns his ankles and causes him to fall to his hip.
Those below hear a loud, "oof," as debree is hoofed off the roof to the alley below, making a pitter-patter on the cobblstone street.
The ranger's fingers grab at the tile until they find a hold, fighting the gravity that pulls his body downward.
Lifting his head up he looks to the night sky.
Thru the ear-piece, "Is everyone all right? I think I'm on a roof."
The ranger turns himself around to where his rear is resting on the roof.
Valdor d20+21=25 d20+21=40 Thursday December 8th, 2005 1:59:44 PM
Valdor nods to Father Nick and offers a slight bow, then says,"There's only four of them, I'll handle it." He turns and walks with purpose toward them, drawing his two swords as he walks.
He says to them in a voice cold enough to chill the bone,"You will find no easy prey here tonight. I am in the foulest mood you can imagine and will enjoy slicing you to pieces. Leave or die, there is no mercy from me today."
(Intimidate dc40)
Vé Mundr d20+14=23 Thursday December 8th, 2005 2:57:29 PM
With a sudden snap of air, Valdor, or at least someone resembling the famed Valdor is standing between him and the other 4. [Listen 23] His ears quickly confirm several others ad Father Nick their identity. Vé had already stepped left as Father Nick stepped back, placing himself between Father Nick and the new arrival.
"He is what I imagined and not quite." the Protector of Domi says to no one in particular
Corialote Thursday December 8th, 2005 9:11:48 PM
Cori's vision punches through the darkness, though in black and white. She lets a grin pass across her face as she watches Valdor advance. Her fingers twitch as she mutters a spell under her breathe but does not put a finale to it as she watches the proceedings. "Maybe a teleport spell will make them more agreeable...drop them off someplace nice." Her grin is cheshirish as she looks over the four that stand before them.
Dahlia d20+20=26 Friday December 9th, 2005 2:20:49 PM
Dahlia a bit surprised to find herself where she has wound up she cltzily knocks a pot off the ledge. With her cat like reflexes still a bit shakey from the transport she manages to catch the pot, if just barely (Reflex 26) and murmurs her arrival to the others. Hearing Valdor's comments about the four maurauders, she gets ready to do some mid distance disturbance if necessary.
Nick Friday December 9th, 2005 9:23:52 PM
Troubled by the tone of Valdor's voice, but glad to hear Mordrid's voice in the earpiece, as events quickly unfold, Nick whispers quietly into the communicator. "Mordrid? What's wrong?"
Valdor Saturday December 10th, 2005 12:17:35 AM
Valdor continues to march towards the four with all of the subtleness of a rhino. His eyes are glazed over with hat crazed look again. There is no normalcy to his features. He looks as though he really WANTS to begin letting blood, and lots of it.
Mordrid Saturday December 10th, 2005 12:07:17 PM
Mordrid responds flatly in the ear-piece, "His heart is broken."
The ranger is looking over the ledge at the scene now.
[ooc: Glad you're back Jan.]
Vé Mundr Saturday December 10th, 2005 3:08:47 PM
The cleric has seen that walk, heard that tone, and recognizes the attitude Valdor is displaying in ohter men before. Vé Mundr knows that nothing good has ever come from such things. Pulling his warhammer, which springs to life of dancing energies that bathe the cleric and his immediate surroundings in a blue and red torch-like light, Vé moves forward quickly catching the advancing warrior.
"Four robed strangers in an alley do not warrant a death sentence by their mere presence sir. This is not a path you should be treading."
Valdor(Stoneskin) d20+39=57 Saturday December 10th, 2005 3:22:57 PM
Quicker than any eye could follow, Valdor's sword disappears from his hand while still walking forward and facing forward. Without a glance and with no warning, the newcomer finds himself lifted off his feet and being carried by the front of his robes or tunic, held out at arms length by the huge warrior. (AC57)
He says,"Since you were with Father Nick, I'll forgive your intrusion for the moment. My path is my own to tread and noone else has had to tread such a path. Do not judge me, lest you be judged back. They only sign their death warrant if they refuse to leave here now and want to fight."
He lets go and drops the cleric back to his feet, never once taking his eyes off the four down the alley. His sword re-appears in his hand, too quick for someone his size to move.
(Sorry for the rude introduction into the game, Steve H)
Nick Monday December 12th, 2005 3:42:09 PM
During the few seconds it takes for the strangers in the alley to reveal themselves, Nick lets Mordrid's message sink in. Funny, in an odd sort of way - he'd always imagined scenarios where Mordrid might go off the deep end - not Valdor. This could be bad. The 'whys' would have to wait a little while, he supposed. As for Ve, he knew his friend to be of sound character. In fact Nick would have said the same thing, given a few seconds more and realizing the extent of Valdor's mood.
Alemi, let this not be just a grandmother walking her kids home, he thinks. he starts to look around. Hopefully Dahlia and Cori were around somewhere, too.
Mordrid Monday December 12th, 2005 6:12:41 PM
Mordrid let's Nick in on a little bit more information, "It's his daughter Nick. She has been murdered."
Mordrid stands erect on the ledge now, his bow in hand in case something should happen. After looking back down the alley to check behind the main group, the ranger casts cats grace on himself and moves five feet down the ledge, towards Valdor. Surely his fighting companion would come to his senses soon.
A question looms in his mind. Taking into account the sky-line, what direction would the Platinum Dragon Castle be?
Corialote d20+3=6 Monday December 12th, 2005 8:24:51 PM
As all of this is going on, Cori moves ahead of the group and finishes the last of her spell. She will shape an icewall that will block off the rest of the group from the four strangers as she faces them. "I have saved your lives or at least delayed the inevitable." He glowing eyes flash as she pulls up a wand and smiles a knowing grin. "Would you like to press this further?" She is silently hoping that they will run and that the others can settle Valdor down. She is not sure how long her wall will hold out with him in the condition he is in.
[Wisdom 5*should have been +2*]
Valdor d20=1 d20+39=52 d20+38=50 d20+34=35 d20+33=42 d20+28=31 d20+23=41 Monday December 12th, 2005 11:29:48 PM
In a matter of seconds, Valdor reaches the wall. He lets out a howl that is not close to human and proceeds to batter the wall with the hilts of his swords. That he's not thinking clearly is quite evident, and is emphasized by his losing his grip on one of his swords. It clatters to the ground beside him, but he continues to pound at the wall with his other sword. He never drops a sword and leaves it, especially THE sword.
Vé Mundr Tuesday December 13th, 2005 10:18:29 AM
Vé is most certainly taken aback when Valdor grabs him, a physical excahnage was certainly unexpected. Vé has been through far too many battles for his instincts to not immediately set his body in motion, or in this case non motion. Valdor might as well thave tried to lift a cloud giant with one hand. the Cleric doesn't budge and as Valdor continues past his own momntum breaks his grasp free. In reply, the cleric of Domi says, "Forgivenes can not be given when it is not saught after."
Vé Mundr remains where he is for a moment, regarding Valdor, he then adds, "Your heart knows I am correct and many have walked before to thier own destruction. I am not judging, but offer council. If you are ever judged the difference will be very apparent."
The wall then appears and alarms sound in his head. The four had weapons and squared off against both him and Father Nick and they knew thier opponents. Now a single opponent is within their grasp. Quickly, he pulls a tightly rolled carpet from just below his pack and snaps it open. Hovering just before him is a 5x10 beautifully embroidered azure and white carpet. Vé steps on the carpet.
no worries on the welcome Steve H. glad to be starting in the game :)
Dahlia Tuesday December 13th, 2005 1:20:10 PM
Watching from above Dahlia watches to see what the four strangers are doing and if they are still hanging around and setting up for a fight, Dahlia will warn Valdor to pick up his swords and ready himself for flying Ice as she will let loose a bolt of lightening at the ice wall.
Mordrid Tuesday December 13th, 2005 2:00:51 PM
Mordrid watches in awe. The amount of posturing going on is unbelievable. Walls, pounding walls, unmovable walls, exploding walls, leaping walls: what would be next?
The ranger decides to let happen what may happen. It was unlikely that he would 'one up' all that was transpiring.
The ranger takes a deep breath and watches.
A message from your deliquent DM Stephen Tuesday December 13th, 2005 7:15:50 PM
(Gosh!! Sorry guys. Was unavailable for DM posting the past couple of game days. I thought I had sent out some emails informing those involved to fill in. But apparently they werent sent. My email software is hopelessly out of date, according to the good people at Earthlink. Sorry for leaving you all hanging. Will have a post shortly. Just considering everything is happening in extra slow motion for added effect.)
Surely you jest! (DM Stephen) d100=57 d100=3 d100=69 d100=98 d20+22=32 d20+22=40 d20+22=27 d20+22=23 Tuesday December 13th, 2005 8:04:16 PM
The four cloaked strangers step backward as Valdor approaches. His words are devestatingly intimidating. They sound off like a loud clap of lightning upon the ears of those in which they were aimed. Fear enraptures them. Three drop whatever was in their hands, then turn and run. One remains, frozen in place. Unable to move. Only a weak wimper escapes his lips. Well, his mouse-like squeak isnt the only thing that "escapes" his body! The metalic objects they dropped clang against the stone alleyway. They look like holy symbols ... most unholy to some.
In the following seconds that pass, what feels like forever, Ve makes a move toward Valdor with his weapon drawn, possibly to attack, who knows, it happened so fast! Valdor finds this rather rude and foolhardy and shows him how strong he is. Ve then rolls out his carpet. Possibly to mesmurize Valdor with its pretty colors. :)
Corialote, weary of the scene developing before her eyes, summons an ice wall to hide Valdor's tantrum from onlookers and possibly the press.
In protection of the potted plant that Dahlia just caught, she shoots a lightning bolt at the menacing ice wall. People should really bring their plants in on such nights!
Nick ponders Valdor's mood and wonders if the big boy needs a good hug.
Myrridan just sits there watching the whole scene, stunned with shock, or was that the lighting bolt that whizzed by his left ear.
Mordrid is fascinated by all the posturing down on the street below. So he casts Cats Grace and strikes his own pose on his way down.
The wall explodes with a loud exploding explosion. A huge chunk of ice breaks away and falls over on the evil-doer who was already frozen with fright. However, he now begins to squirm around under the chunk of ice with painful muffled moans. (what do you expect for rolling a natural 1 on his save.)
(I hope you enjoyed this little scene. It was meant to be funny. The game will begin to get serious again, I promise. :)
Valdor d20=19 d20+11=25 Tuesday December 13th, 2005 10:41:01 PM
Valdor's head snaps back as if struck by a titan. He shakes his head briefly and quickly looks around. He locks eyes for just a second with Nick's companion. The cleric sees a completely different man standing in front of him than before. He looks around then to find the man pinned under the ice.
He calmly bends down and picks up his sword and sheaths it, along with the one he was holding. He moves over beside the man who is pinned and whispers,"I would suggest you forget stalking people in a dark alley. You never know who you'll end up against. This block of ice has saved you this night. I would suggest going to Alemi's temple and pray for a change of heart to come upon you. Don't let me see you again in this kind of situation. My friends won't save you next time."
He bends down and with a great heave, he picks up the ice and tosses it aside. He doesn't even look back, but winks at the cleric with his back to the stunned man.
It is only then do his eyes get drawn to the holy symbol worn by Nick's friend. He stops and says,"My apologies Brother. I was not myself. Ever have I been a follower and worshipper of the courageous One. I trust you were not injured?"
He offers a short bow and waits for an answer.
Corialote Wednesday December 14th, 2005 1:33:17 AM
Cori shakes the snow from herself as her wall goes literally all to pieces. She shakes her head and then looks to the man that is pinned. She shrugs and then moves back a ways. "It is so terrible when lowly mages use thier spells like this...water and snow everywhere." She does not acknowledge that she is the one that cast the spell in the first place. Than again it might help in the long run to pretend that it was someone else that had made the mess.
She notices Valdor speak to the man though she does not eveasdrop on the conversation. A nod is given to noone as he lifts the ice from the man. "I would suggest you go change your clothes and bath before you go to the temple." Her little nose wrinkles with the sudden eruption of smells, one smells decidedly like urine to her. She holds out her arm to Valdor as she waits for the newest priest to accept the apology. "Shall we?" She gives him her best smile though her eyes reveal that other more mischievious things are going through her mind.
Vé Mundr Wednesday December 14th, 2005 10:24:45 AM
Vé doesn't have time to levitate the carpet as the wall of ice explodes in a thunderous roar of shattering ice. he instinctively shields his eyes with his off hand and squints through the debris. the men were gone, none of his would be companions harmed and a single assailant lay pinned. Valdor corrects the last part though the man merely lies in terror of the powerful warrior.
Valdor turns back and meets an even gaze from the dark eyes of the cleric of Domi, who inclines his head. Looking up to Valdor "There was no injury done, to spirit, mind or body. My intentions with my weapon were misread, the timing poor."
Stowing his warhammer, Vé steps off the hovering carpet to Valdor and extends his hand. "I am Vé Mundr (VE-ah Moon-DrA) Servant of Domi and hopeful initiate of the 'Dragons'."
Nick d20+13=30 Wednesday December 14th, 2005 7:39:41 PM ... murdered
By the time he's thought it over and it's sunk in, the ice wall has shattered and Valdor and Ve are introducing themselves to one another. And was that a flying carpet? oh, and here was Cori. He looks up, trying to spot Mordrid and Dahlia, then manages a distracted half-grin. "I was bringing him back to the castle, to meet you all," he says, his attention trailing toward items dropped by the would-be assailants and the one left behind.
SPOT CHECK DC30
Dahlia Wednesday December 14th, 2005 10:11:01 PM
From her perch, Dahlia looks down and sees that everyone seems to be safe and sound so with the ease born of many years of practice, the little halfling does a flip to the the alley floor and then tumbles over to Darth Vader (Ve Mundr)).
Looking up at Ve and winks at Nick, She asks, "So Nick, since when did you start picking up strange men in dark alleys after nightfall?"
(Dahlia is a 2 1/2 ft tall, black-skinned halfling with very long brown hair and startling purple eyes. She is adorned in grey and black flowing clothing finished with burnished silver. The is a silver lapel pin in her right collar and a silver broach keeps her charcoal cloak resting over her shoulders.)
Home. (DM Stephen) Wednesday December 14th, 2005 11:05:56 PM
The stranger, currently on ice, seems to take Valdor's advice and scurries off into the night when the huge chunck of ice is lifted off of him. Though its quite possible he's not as swift as he once was. Having a pronounced limp and holding his arm.
Introductions are made, hands are shook and the scene quickly becomes much lighter. Everyone pretty much agrees to retire to Platinum Dragon castle. Before you all leave the dark alley, Nick notices that the metalic objects that were dropped appear to be two masterwork ceremonial daggers and two Gaal unholy symbols.
Just a short walk away, you all find yourselves on the castle grounds, standing in front of the massive doors of Platinum Dragon castle. The butler opens the doors as you approach, as if he knew you were there before you did. The butler tells you that dinner awaits in the dining hall if you wish to eat.
(may be late getting in tomorrow night, seeing King Kong.)
Valdor Wednesday December 14th, 2005 11:54:46 PM
Valdor nods wearily to Ve Mundr and turns back toward the castle. He has never been so happy to see it.
He smiles at the butler and walks in. He has a quick small meal and says goodnight to all. He heads for his room, sheds his armor and falls asleep before his head hits the pillow.
Nick Thursday December 15th, 2005 11:14:43 AM
Nick grins at Dahlia. "Yes, it's good to see you, too."
At the castle, Nick talks to Flabersham the butler about having a guest room available for Ve Mundr. "I'm not sure how everything is, after the flood," he adds to Ve. "You might find a few animals or chickens sneaking about, but I know our staff make sure you're comfortable."
After dinner, he has a quiet word with the others, asking them about this murder business, which he finds most disturbing.
Vé Mundr Thursday December 15th, 2005 4:48:21 PM quick description: Olive skinned with dark hair, a slightly large nose and deep set brown eyes, Vé Mundr stands right at 6' tall and weighs a respectable 200 pounds. Though the latter is exceedingly difficult to tell as when the man is seen, he is wearing his Mithral Full Platemail. Emblazoned upon the breast is the hammer of Domi, wreathed in white flame. The shoulders carry the high Woldian symbols for Domi upon them and Vé Mundr's personal seal, the pillar, is set in the abdomen region. A large shield of Mithril is on his left side and an Adamantin warhammer hangs at his hip giving off a blue red glow constantly. A HHHaversack is on his back with a carpet tightly rolled and starpped beneath it.
Vé nods to Dahlia, "A pleasure." and he sits down on the floating carpet behind him. "And to be fair to the good Father, he picked me up in a bar over dinner and drinks." the olive skinned man replies with a wink at the halfling.
If no one else does, the cleric retrieves the dropped items from the would be assailants. Vé remains on the carpet and rides to the castle.
Once at the castle, Vé assures Father nick that he will be fine. "I am sure Domi will watch over me" he teases. "I will be fine."
"If it is all right I would like to sit in on any discussions, perhaps someone could bring me up to speed on tasks that lay ahead?"
Mordrid Thursday December 15th, 2005 6:23:00 PM
Mordrid stops on his way up the stairs; leaning on the bannister, he looks down at the remaining guests. The rangers eyes are dark sockets, with hanging bags beneath. His crows feet spread out from the eyes like fissured ice. He's never looked older or more tired.
"Father Nick, it is so good to see you again. I hope all is well with your family. Please show our guest to a room. If you will, I will excuse myself for the night. I must sleep."
The ranger disappears into the shadow of the upper stairs.
Corialote Friday December 16th, 2005 2:09:09 PM
Cori gives Father Nick a bright smile as they get back to the castle and lays a hand upon his shoulder. "Everything better?" She follows along her tummy having growled a couple of times already. She does not even seem to notice or at least she is not going to acknowledge it.
She looks to the butler and gives him a smile as well. "Some food would be great." She continues to give him that same smile and then a slight bow. "Thank you." As she walks she moves over to stand by Ve Mundr and follows along to the feast hall. "The name is Cori...also a fairly new member of the Plats."
Dahlia Friday December 16th, 2005 7:48:46 PM
Food!! Yes I am starving. I bet I could even give Valdor a run for his money today.
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