Cut to Pieces (DM/Al) d4+1=2 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 9:01:13 PM
Father Jasper rises to light a fire before realizing that he is not in his home. There is no hearth in these rooms at the inn. A hearth in each room is far too great a luxury. Instead, gripping his mace, he feels his way through the darkened room, and opens the door.
Sly Foxx begins to don his chain shirt. Before he even has an arm through a sleeve, he hears on of the other doors open out in the hallway. (Donning a chain shirt requires One full minute. You may don the armor in haste. That takes 5 rounds, but you have -1 to the armor's protection.)
In their separate rooms, both Savin and Jaeden clothe their hands. Each is instilled with a feeling of dread, bad things on the horizon.
Peerimus, Firn'gaer and Jones, continue to sleep in peace.
Savin and Jaeden open their doors but seconds after Father Jasper. All three step out into the hall at nearly the same time. (Sly, you can either continue to don your armor, or you can come out into the hall. One or the other.)
Down the hallway against he right wall is a rectangle, yellow with bright light. It is a doorway with a light shining within. Just outside the doorway, a dark figure lies in a heap upon the floor. Moving closer reveals the characteristic hiss of a sunrod from inside the room. The figure on the floor is Kon. The little man lies in a spreading pool of his own blood. Shadow illumination reveals the deep cut across his throat and the unnatural angle at which his head lies.
And just beyond Kon lies Reena. The warrior woman lies sprawled upon her back. The flesh of her belly has been opened with precision cuts and her guts hang out, covering her upper thighs. Reena's green eyes stare up at the ceiling, dead and uncomprehending.
Within the room, Marten stands over the body of Silus Destin. He stands frozen, Greatsword held within a two-handed grip. His eyes strain and his mouth is open as if in the act of calling for aide. A dark stain spreads across the front of his shirt. Suddenly he moves as though released. Marten stumbles and falls to one knee. He coughs, and spits dark blood onto the floor.
=== OOC ===
Spot and Listen checks please. Other appropriate checks if you are taking other actions as well.
Savin d20+13=24 d20+12=22 d20+9=27 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 9:42:13 PM
Savin looks at the carnage and yells, "Reena!" He starts moving towards her but realizes that his is to late, but others might need his aid. He darts forward to kneel by Kron, feeling for a pulse. If he gets one he will start pulling out a potion. "Jasper, help Martin! Firn'gaer, Peerimus! Murder!"
Savin eyes dart everywhere and he keeps an ear cocked listening for trouble.
spot 24, listen 22 heal 27
Father Jasper Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:43:23 PM
Jasper rushes into the room seeing the mass blood loss and knowing that there is little to help the opther two jasper drops the mace and shield he start to cast Cure Critical Wounds if there is still time hoping to save martin
Sly d20+6=25 d20+6=22 d20+5=13 d20+5=13 Friday March 24th, 2006 6:41:34 AM
Sly trys to dawn his chain-mail shirt, He's half asleep and very clumsy. He throws his armor down, But keeps his sword in hand, muttering to himself "Don't have time to put this on!" opens the door and goes to Savin and Jasper.
Sly will first look in side the room, Asking Fr. Jasper "Are they all dead? One is bearly alive?" Now he'll turn to Savin, telling him "Who ever did this was pure evil! And had no intentions of paying Silus!. . . Oh! And another thing?? If this monster knows about the Artifact?? We're in danger Too? Take it easy and I'll be right back With Firn-gare and the LOOKING Glass!"
Sly will go to find the leader and Little gnome's Room, knocking to wake them! "KNOCK! Bang! Firn-gare! You and Peerimus are needed and bring you looking glass with you! QUICK!"
Luke sleep on with Yurrick And Lady Salina.
Sly Checks Listens 25 Spot 22
Luke Checks Listens 13 Spot 13
Jones Friday March 24th, 2006 10:00:09 AM
Finally roused by all the noise, Jones makes it to the room a bit late. Fortunately, he doesn't have weapons or armor to fiddle with. On surveying the scene, he quickly moves in to see how he can help. Since Jasper is by Marten, Jones will check on Silus to see if there is any hope of healing.
Peerimus d20+7=17 d20+21=28 Friday March 24th, 2006 10:57:59 AM Shouts? Sly? Peerimus bolts upright in bed and seeing Firngaer sitting up he quickly dismisses the possibility of a private dream. More sounds in the hall confirm it, something is definately wrong.
Peerimus throws the small blanket the was darped over his feet off with a quick spin in bed and a kick. His hand grabs the belt draped over the post, only thing a really need. The druid only removes his armor to clean it and the pack and weapon are not near as precious as the few components he keeps in his belt pouches.
Peerimus just slings his belt like a pack as he opens the door and moves into the hall. His long thick hair is still held well in pace with the berry juice that is daily applied, but most of the paint and colored mud upon his face is cracked and peeled away. The sight down the hall is disturbing to say the least. With Father Jasper already there, Peerimus would add little in that regard, but he did have an idea.
"Everyone stop moving and except for Jasper do not touch anything." The druid approaches and drops into a crouch, slowly almost crawling up to the grisly scene. Putting his revoltion behind him he begins to try and piece together the order of events. [Track survival 28]
Firn'gaer d20+7=21 Friday March 24th, 2006 12:45:02 PM
Shouts go out and the wizard is again startled from his sleep. Still groggy, he casts out a quick spell, Mage Hand. In an instant his staff is in his hands and he is standing on his bed.
"What is going on!" he shouts in that unnaturally loud wizardly voice. Moving to the door and the bloody scene he immediately says, "Jasper if you can Speak with Dead perhaps we can find out who is responsible."
"Sly, Savin, Jones head outside. Maybe you can see something or someone who might shed some light. Bring weapons those responsible might still be around. I'm going to look for the Chaos Item as Sly suggested. If that was the target, we'll need a starting point."
Firn'gaer heads back into the room and looks into Noxnyx.
[Int DC21]
Stolen! (DM/Al) Friday March 24th, 2006 10:34:28 PM
Reena is dead. Warm, vivacious, loving ... and now dead. Savin stoops at Kon's side. A closer inspection reveals that his throat has been slit by an expert. Blood still spurts from the carotid artery. The dark little man will never dance again. A stain catches Savin's eye, an eye accustomed to healing. There is a bluish coloring just within the wounds. With a finger, he daubs at the substance and brings it to his nose.
Poison! A paralytic poison.
Rushing into the room, Father Jasper goes first to the man who is most clearly still alive. Holding his hands in forward in the symbol of Alemi, he channels healing light into Marten. The man rears up and draws in a rasping breath, as his collapsed lung expands once again. Life giving oxygen once again circulates through is body.
Sly is the first to leap to the obvious conclusions, this is an attack on the Artifacts. Crying Evil, the Bladesinger pounds the door to wake the others. He knows what must be done.
Savin and Sly listen, but neither hear any suspicious sounds.
Jones enters the scene of blood and death and goes directly to the fallen Caravan Master. A quick inspection shows Silus Destin to be alive but badly hurt and unconscious. In his hands is clutched a pouch and belt. Marten, shakes the haze from his brain. He does not even stop to ascertain Silus' condition, instead, he kneels at his side and immediately lays a hand upon the Caravan Master's head. A light glows about Marten's hand, and the glow falls like water about Silus Destin's body.
The Caravan Master stirs. He opens his eyes. Then a grimace of pain rips across his face as he struggles to sit. The pain from his remaining wounds tears through his body. Gritting his teeth, the Caravan Master fumbles open the pouch.
"It's gone," he says, then slumps back to the floor breathing heavily.
Peerimus and Firn'gaer bolt from their room.
The druid calls for everyone to halt their movement. The woodland ways may just serve here as well. The floor is hard and not likely to take prints. Further, it has been traveled by thousands over the course of years. However, there is one thing that is new to the scene ... a spatter of blood. Droplets of blood are sprayed across the floors and wall. His companions have already tracked bloody footprints across portions of Silus Destin's room. But there is one set of bloody tracks, small booted prints that lead away from the room and down the hallway to the stairs, a medium sized humanoid for sure.
Firn'gaer calls out a suggestion to Father Jasper then he takes Sly's advice and pulls out the Vision of Noxnyx. The screen casts a ghostly light of moving colors within the dark room. Blobs of dense color jump immediately to view within the matrix of moving threads of silver light. There is one in the position of Firn'gaer's pack, most certainly the Circle of Far and Away. There is one in the direction of Savin's room, surely the Amulet of Seribond. There is Sly, and beyond him, Jaeden and Peerimus, Savin, and in the room beyond Father Jasper and Jones. Nothing else registers in the immediate area. (The default view is your immediate area. If you wish something else, you'll have to be more specific with your description.)
In the other room, Silus Destin struggles up to one elbow. Marten props him up gently from behind.
"I ... was ... to deliver the Chime tonight. To the Crones. At the ring of five stones. A woman. Thief was a woman. I saw her. Only for a moment. She disappeared." The Caravan Master closes his eyes. He breathes heavily, holding off waves of pain.
"On her hand," he says after a time, "On her hand, she ... She bears your mark."
Savin Saturday March 25th, 2006 9:39:27 AM
Savin hears the caravan master and stumbles in shock. Could it be Niobe? Savin looks over to Firn'gaer and Peerimus. "I think we have one of two choices, either we track this assassin. It won't be an easy task or we go to the crones.
I am distrubed by the description of the this assassin having our tattoos. We saw Niobe in town, an old member of our group, but I don't think she has the skills to take down such a skilled group by herself, even if she was using poison. I council caution here. I think we need to find these crones and see if they are our crones. We need information more than speed now. We should be able to track the artifact later with Firn'gaers friend there." Savin points at the artifact.
Savin will look over to the caravan leader and tears fill his eyes. "I am sorry for this. Did Reena have any family? They should get her personal affects and know what happened to her. While we were getting close, we really didn't exchange to much history. I knew she was born in Rattledam but seemed to live a nomadic life. "
Father Jasper Saturday March 25th, 2006 11:01:37 AM
Jasper after hearing what caravan master has to say the noting the blood work done tonight, he answers Firn'gaer's question as he is heading for his room I can speak with the dead but not tonight i wans not prepared for foul murder tonight. that being said he heads quickly to his room to gather his gear and dress for the occation ( his armor, and helm) then will go find the druid and wizard to begin the search for the murder and artifact.
Sly Sunday March 26th, 2006 5:47:10 AM
Sly is about to get dress to go out side and serch for clues on this assasin. Sly goes to savin, "Niobe?? No! It cannot be Niobe?? She a rouge! and a good one at that, she could pick your pocket and you would never known it untill the nesxt day. Niobe does not have the stomeck for a job like this or use poison, it's not her way of fighting.
Come along with us Savin, let's go out side, like Peerimus said, let's see if we can find some of clue or trail? besides I've got to grab my pants!"
Sly will grab his pants, hopping along trying to get one leg into his pants.
Firn'gaer d20+7=17 d20+7=16 d20+6=22 Sunday March 26th, 2006 8:37:03 AM
"Father Jasper you tend to the living. Is there anything that you can do for Reena?" He says to the priest. "I think the artifact is our first concern and by all accounts, the assassin has it. I know we don't want to think it, but Niobe is our prime suspect. So despite your feelings towards her- Sly, Savin, Peerimus- we must consider her dangerous." He says looking from the mirror. "It has been some time since we last saw her, and who knows what things happened since her departure. I do know this; she is skilled and has the mark. We'll know soon enough. If she has the Chimes, then we have our answer. It may take some time to track down her with Noxnyx, so I would suggest getting prepared."
Firn'gaer pulls out Circle. "Good morning, I have a favor to ask of you. Someone has taken the Chimes and we need Noxnyx to track the Chaos signatures, but my communication with it is too clumsy and slow. Would you be able to have Noxnyx locate an old companion, Niobe. She also bears the Chaos Mark." He says to Circle. "She is in the town or was very recently. Can you help me?"
[If Circle is unwilling or unable to assist with the search, Firn'gaer will start with an overview of the town. Then in a spiral pattern from their location on a block sized view moving through the town. Int DC17]
[Search DC16, Spot DC22]
Peerimus d20+21=38 Monday March 27th, 2006 2:12:09 PM
Peerimus remains where he is for a few moments, the others standing above him having jumped to the conclusion of Niobe's involvement and the corresponding outrage and betrayal the thought invokes. Trying to put together an order of events. The assassin befriends Kon and learning where Silus and Marten are staying, kills him. Then onto the true task at hand. Upon leaving Marten and Silus she runs into an unarmed and unarmored Reena. She would be no match at all especially with Niobe's ring. None of this does he want to vocalize however, the pain in the others voices is more than enough to convince him that holding unto doubt is their best defense.
Peerimus looks back over his left shoulder, his face hard in the oil lamp light "It will be light in a few hours. Whoever did this was highly skilled." As Firngaer leaves the scene, "Savin go with him, Sly you're with me the rest of you stay here and keep Jaeden here when he shows up. Father Jasper I suggest you prepare for the task of speaking with Reena and Kon. She likely saw her attacker. Savin, she was last with you. Can you place how long ago she left your room?"
As Savin answers Peerimus moves to the hall and meticulously begins to follow the prints. Likely she headed outside and... Peerimus stops in mid thought. There was one other relatively light built human bearing their mark with a skill set fitting this attack. This thought too, Peerimus keeps to himself.
Unfortuantely either scenerio gave the assassin good inside information on the group's abilities. Could the mirror track an object in a bag of holding? The assassin would know of his own considerable skills as a tracker but perhaps that would help narrow the suspect list. Track the purchases from the last couple of days. Peerimus shakes his head, stay on task. [survival 38 to track]
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Jones Monday March 27th, 2006 2:25:51 PM
Once Silus and Marten seem revived, Jones stands and finally loses the smile that's been perpetually on his face since eveyone met him, "I don't know anything about these artifacts, but justice demands that we track down this cowardly assassin."
Sly and Luke d20+4=16 Monday March 27th, 2006 2:46:58 PM
Sly tell Peerimus "I'll be right back" then disapers into his room, You hear a few sounds. the Sly come hopping on one foot and trying to put his other foot into his pants.
Sly has his betl arounr his neck, with his sword dangling on the belt, Perch on the top of Sly head is his chainmale shirt. His helmit is on Sly's head under the helmet.
Hopping on onr leg Performance 16.
Sly did not have time to cast Mage's Hand.
Jaeden Monday March 27th, 2006 7:38:21 PM
With foul deed discovered Jaeden's first thought is to begin searching immediately. Just as he's about to get started Peerimus calls for him to remain, so he does. A pained look briefly crosses his face as he considers Kon but quickly the mans face hardens. Knowing that it is likely unnecessary, he stands guard on the scene of distruction.
Moving North (DM/Al) Monday March 27th, 2006 8:11:04 PM
"Reena's parents run with caravans from Hook City south to The Dragon's Teeth," Silus Destin says to Savin. His voice is strained by the pain of his injuries "Everyone knows everyone else in this business. I'll get her things to her parents." He looks at the dark doorway and grits his teeth from more than the pain. "Kon as well."
Father Jasper and Sly Foxx return briefly to their rooms to dress for the hunt. The thought that the perpetrator of such bloody mayhem maybe Niobe is disturbing and preys upon many minds.
Firn'gaer retrieves the Circle of Far and Away.
"What? Hmm? Huh?" The voice of the Faraday comes as though waking from sleep. "Xaos? Companion? Oh, yeah. Sure." There is a moment of silence. "What? No. I don't always understand you either." The screen on the Vision of Noxnyx flashes from one view to another. Back and forth. Back and forth. Both contain a dense spot of color. One spot is larger than another. When the view displaying the smaller appears, it moves across the screen.
"Um, no. I don't think so. Yes, alright. That's what he asked for, yes I know. But ... Look, I know what they want. Trust me." A sigh comes from the Circle.
"Look, Firn'gaer, could you stand up? Right, right. Noxy is going to give you a medium perspective. You have to turn in a circle so you can get some orientation."
Firn'gaer turns through the points of the compass. As he faces north, a spot of color appears on the screen. The spot moves north. Another spot appears at the very northeast corner of the screen. It is stationary. Without a frame of reference, it's difficult to judge just how fast the moving spot is traveling. But it does appear to the wizard as though it is proceeding at a rapid pace.
Peerimus follows the tracks of blood down the hallway to the stairs. It is not difficult to guess that they lead down into the common room, and from there, most likely out into the street. The druid divides the party into groups. Savin with Firn'gaer. Sly, he takes with himself. Jones and Jaeden are slated to guard Silus Destin, Marten and the bodies. Father Jasper is set to contemplate the best questions to ask Reena and Kon when their spirits are called for questioning.
Within the room, Marten still cradles Silus Destin's head in his lap. His eyes are hard, and a lean muscle in his jaw jumps with tension as he looks out over the blood splattered floor and the two still bodies, their life's warmth cooling to the chill of the grave.
=== OOC ===
Peerimus, per the Track Feat: You move at half your normal speed (or at your normal speed with a -5 penalty on the check, or at up to twice your normal speed with a -20 penalty on the check). The light is currently behind you and up the stairs. The common room is dark. Once outside, we will treat this as a Moonlit night. That's a +3 to the Track modifier.
Savin, it's difficult to say how long Reena was gone. But it could not have been but a few minutes.
BTW, if you would like a persepctive, here is a Map of Heranmar.
Sly and Luke Tuesday March 28th, 2006 8:04:09 AM
Sly now almost has his pants on, 'Cannot follow peerimus with any pants on, The rest of my equiptment I can dawn on the way.'.
Sly will follow Peerimus where ever the leader leads them, wishing that he had Luke with him to track this assassin. Sly tells Peerinus his feelingd "If Niobe did do this mahem, Then I'll kill this half-elf myself!"
Savin d20+2=19 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 8:06:57 AM
Savin does some quick thinking and shrugs his shoulders and gives Peerimus his answer. Only a couple of minutes.
Savin reaches over and grips Silas's shoulder and gives it a squeeze. He murmers, "Thank you. I will avenge her, I promise."
In a louder voice,"Peerimus, you are our leader and I will follow your orders, but do you really want to split the group? We are up against dangerous and experienced assassins. Judging from the circle's one sided conversation, she even seems confused where the chimes are going. Where ever it is, it seems to be moving supernaturally fast.
I think we are better served going to the crones and hearing their wisdom on the matter and then organizing a raid."
Savin will stand and hurry after Firn'gaer to guard the exposed mage while he performs his magic.
Jaeden Ohm Tuesday March 28th, 2006 10:57:41 AM
Not believing they are in immediate danger Jaeden watches Firngaer as he plays with the vision. Seeing the two points of light comfirms for him his believe in their current relative safely.
He returns to his room and begins the slow process of fastening his plate armor to his body.
Jones Tuesday March 28th, 2006 1:05:35 PM
Jones looks antsy having to stand about and guard. He would clearly rather be out trying to catch the assassin. Even so, he doesn't complain.
Peerimus d20+21=23 d20+7=25 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 5:25:13 PM
Peerimus moves off towards the common room as he answers Savin. "If your time is even close that means only a few minutes head start." Peerimus keeps following the trail. Calling back "I have no intention of splitting up Savin, but I have less of letting the assassin gain disatance. When you and the rest are ready, catch up, just don't leave anyone by themselves!"
Peerimus for goes following the trail through the common room, but rather casts LongStrider and moves quickly to the door and attempts to regain the trail just outside. [Track 23] The others should be outside shortly, he overheard part of Firngaer's conversation, something about multiple signatures. [listen 25] Made sense, Niobe, Silverhand and the Chimes. Wish Yorrick was here.
If Peerimus picks up the trail he will be moving at half speed (40) for a round then "Get on SLy" shift to a Horse and be following the trail half speed (70)
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours
Father Jasper Tuesday March 28th, 2006 6:51:21 PM
Father Jasper checks to see if Jaeden needs help getting into his steel over coat and then hurrys to catch up to the group ... " what is the plan guys we can't run in there half cocked or something will go wrong we need a plan of attack and fast.
Firn'gaer Tuesday March 28th, 2006 7:52:24 PM
"I'm not sure what I'm seeing, but it appears that Xaos and a larger signature are not together. It could mean that our assassin familar with the marks. If it was a Marked then it looks as if (s)he has given Xaos to someone else." He say looking into Noxnyx. "I think it will be easier once we start moving and I can get a better reference."
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Relative Positions (DM/Al) Tuesday March 28th, 2006 9:10:03 PM
Sly, clothes flapping, hurries after Peerimus. The druid stops in the dark common room to apply a spell, and then heads for the front door. It's already open. He steps out into the moonlight, and is just able to make out the blood prints against the hard surface of the street. The prints grow fainter as the they continue, though. They are drying and become recognizable less by their shape than their alternating pattern of lefts and rights. The tracks head up the central road of Heranmar, in the direction of the Northern Gate.
Peerimus speaks cryptic words, "Get on, Sly." Then all becomes clear as the druid becomes a horse.
After delivering an oath to Silus Destin, Savin joins Firn'gaer in the hallway. Jones stands there as well. Though, from the look of him, he'd rather be after Peerimus and Sly.
Jaeden moves quickly into his room and begins strapping on his many pieces of Plate Armor. Father Jasper is still in his room, fastening on his breastplate. He calls for a plan.
Firn'gaer continues to watch the screen on the Vision. The dot of color heads to the top of the screen which must be north. It stops briefly and then continues again at the same pace at which it was traveling before. Suddenly, the motion of the dot turns right. East, that must be east.
Back in the room, Silus Destin grits his teeth. Rolling forward with a grunt of pain, he struggles to his knees.
"Go with you," he says. With the help of Marten, the Caravan Master climbs to his feet. "Bag," he says, and then stands tottering weakly as Marten fetches a haversack in the corner. From the bag the Caravan Master pulls a potion and drinks it down.
"I'm going with you," he says again. Then, after steadying himself against Marten's solid frame, Silus Destin comes out to join Firn'gaer, Savin, and Jones.
=== OOC ===
Firn'gaer, I'm not sure where you're at, but you have yet to personally mention that you are moving, so as far as I'm concerned, you are still up in the hallway outside your room.
Father Jasper: Breastplate takes 4 minute to don. One minute to don hastily. Jaeden: Full Plate takes 4 minutes to don, hastily or not.
Donned hastily means you receive -1 to your AC for that armor.
Position Recap ============== Peerimus and Sly are in front of the Inn Firn'gaer, Savin, and Jones are in the hallway on the second floor of the Inn Jaeden is in his room donning his armor. Father Jasper is in his room donning his armor. Lady Silverhand is in the glade with Yorrick, Luke, and Dalek. She is asleep.
Savin Tuesday March 28th, 2006 10:13:05 PM
Savin slaps himself in the forehead and sprints down the stairs after Peerimus. When he gets outside, he sees Sly awkwardly trying to mount a horse without a saddle. He pauses for a second and stands in front of Peerimus. "Peeriums, Can't we use the circle thing to just take us to the chimes? Isn't that what it does?"
Father Jasper Wednesday March 29th, 2006 12:01:37 AM
Jasper " yells at Savin wait leave me a tail to follow if you must go before me i cant track " Jasper gets his armor on as quick as he can ( but takes the 4 rounds) and then runs down and out the building
Sly and Luke d20+1=16 Wednesday March 29th, 2006 7:18:21 AM
OOC: Dex Check 16
Peerimus orders Sly to get on his back, then changes into a horse. Sly tries getting on the back of peerimus, but he's loaded with his weapons and armor. It does not look goog for Sly, he keep sliding back down, Untill Savin gives Sly a good push up.
Now that He's on the Peerimus horse, Sly quickly trying to put his Chain mail on as fast as he can, he's not looking forward dressing while in full gallop.
"Thank you Savin! Don't know what I'd do with out you?" He tell Savin while shoving his arm into the stiff sleeves.
Savin illegal post Wednesday March 29th, 2006 7:25:31 AM
Savin says, "Wait a few and I will get the others." Savin then darts up the stairs into his room, gets his stuff and tells the others to meet them downstairs."
With a grim look at the dead Reena, he runs back down the stairs with his fist clenched.
Firn'gaer Wednesday March 29th, 2006 8:03:47 AM
"Savin go. I wait for Jaeden and Jasper and then catch up."
[Will finish post later]
Jaeden Wednesday March 29th, 2006 1:02:19 PM
Hearing the desire of others to be off Jaeden calls from his room. "You guys go. I can catch up with Dalek."
He wastes no more time speaking and continues to equip himself.
OOC Question Al, I leveled from the last exp handout. In the past you've sent me a new sheet after revisions but i haven't seen one yet. Am I Supposed to make the adjustments and submit it to you?
[ No, you have the process right. I just haven't gotten around to Jaeden yet. I need to do my taxes this weekend, but I'll try and fit the Character Sheets in as well. -- Al ]
Peerimus (Light Horse AC 17 HP 81 Speed 70) d20+21=23 Wednesday March 29th, 2006 2:18:33 PM
Peerimus stoops a bit and holds one hoof out so Sly can more easily climb aboard. and then with his eyes scanning the faint scuffs and drying blood marks upon the street before him, he moves. Savin steps essentially in front of Peerimus and the one unfortunate side effect of being a horse is that he couldn't continue to debate with the monk. With a neigh, snort and shake of the head, Peerimus moves around Savin and down the street toward the front gate. His natural new speed and the enhancement of the Longstrider spell far overcoming the care he needs to take in following the faint trail.
The others will catch up. Firnaer can find me and Sly and if the item has been delivered then even more reason to hunt down the assassin. The real question is can I assume she went for the main gate and gain ground by simpoy going there? If I were the thief and had delivered the item AND had killed several I would not use it. Better to follow the trail. Hopefully Jaeden will remeber to bring Firngaer with him on Dalek
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours
Jones Wednesday March 29th, 2006 3:00:15 PM
Jones follows after Savin and tells Marten and Silus, "Time to go if you're up to it."
Firn'gaer Wednesday March 29th, 2006 7:37:22 PM
Firn'gaer goes back into his room and packs his things quickly. He then opens the shudders on his window. "Take you time and get your armor on. We'll catch up with the others when we can. I feel things are going to get bad once we find Xaos and the assassin." he says to Jaeden, Jones and Jasper.
Firn'gaer continues to look into Noxnyx. This time he does it from his window. As he looks he compares the city view outside, if possible, with what he sees. If the view says the other side of the building, he will move to another open room and get his bearings through Noxnyx.
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
You Want More? (DM/Al) Wednesday March 29th, 2006 9:32:49 PM
Savin leaves Firn'gaer and rushes down the stairs and fetching up in front of Peerimus to head of his departure. He proposes using the Circle of Far and Away to simply teleport to the location of the fleeing Chime of Xaos. After all, didn't they do that once already? Only after the words are out of his mouth, does he remember waiting in the Swan Boat. From the time that Faraday had announced they were to be teleporting to the time they actually left had been an entire hour waiting in the hot sun.
Sly is having a bit of trouble trying to dress and climb up on Peerimus' back at the same time. But with a little help from both Savin and Peerimus he is up and riding bareback.
Peerimus, unable to speak, simply shakes his head, his mane flying in the moonlight. Then, when Savin leaves to fetch the others, Peerimus the horse leaves. The druid in horse form continues to follow the tracks. Lit only by the moon, Peerimus barely makes out the prints on the hard stone paving. They continue up the street, and contrary to his expectations, the tracks do indeed lead to the North Gate and pass on through. By this time, the blood is gone and the prints disappear. But not five feet outside the walls, Peerimus picks up the trail again. The grass by side of the road is freshly crushed and the tracks head off to the east. Peerimus and Sly, their eyes accustomed to the Low Light, look out across the dark grassy expanse to the east of the road
Back at the inn, Savin comes sprinting up the stairs to retrieve the others. Both Jaeden and Father Jasper continue to lace and buckle their armor. (That's Four Minutes, Father Jasper. Not Four Rounds. Armor has its drawbacks.)
Jaeden reaches out with his mind. The presence of Dalek is like the warm comfort of the animal as the warrior sits in the saddle. There is a feeling of peace, of sleep, and then an instant wakefulness, Dalek pricking up his ears. Jaeden feels a sense of question and a readiness to act. (Jaeden, what would you like Dalek to do? Also, be aware, that he now wears neither saddle, bridle, nor barding.)
Firn'gaer opens the window and urges Jaeden and Father Jasper to take their time. Perhaps the wizard has a trick that will get them there faster.
Savin and Jones leave with Marten and Silus Destin. They go back down the stairs and out onto the street where they head north after Peerimus and Sly.
Firn'gaer's window, luck would have it, faces east. There is no frame of reference on the screen of the Vision. Without land marks for comparison, it's hard to say where the moving dot of color is in relation to the moonlit rooftops of Heranmar over which the wizard now looks out upon. But the dot continues to move east, and in a straight line. Would not such a path be unlikely were the moving figure still within the walls of the city?
And then a surprise. As Firn'gaer follows the moving dot on its eastward path, two more dots of color appear. They appear at the upper right edge of the screen, the direction that is the east. The moving dot is heading *for* them! New developments unfold as Jaeden and Father Jasper finish donning their armor. The two join Firn'gaer at the window. What is happening out in the dark moonlit forest outside of Heranmar?
=== OOC ===
Position Recap ============== Peerimus and Sly are just outside the North Gate of Heranmar. Savin, Jones, Silus, and Marten are on the street heading north toward the North Gate. Firn'gaer, Jaeden, and Father Jasper are in Firn'gaer's room looking out the open window. Jaeden and Father Jasper are fully armored. Lady Silverhand is in the glade with Yorrick, Luke, and Dalek. She is asleep. Dalek is awake.
Sly and Luke d20+1=18 d20+3=23 d20+4=19 Thursday March 30th, 2006 6:39:08 AM
Sly take the time that Savin is talking to Peerimus, to settle down on Peerimus shoulders and will grab his main when he takes off. But in the meantime he tries to slip his chain mail over his shoulder.
When Peerimus takes off north and slows down serching, Sly also sees the crush grass, "Look like she is going East now, that's where the old abby is and the remains of the old Witches? Do you think that's the meeting place?" Sak Sly, all the time trying his best to put his arm into one of the sleeves.
Luke is sleeping next to the nice warm body of Lady Salina, But wakes when Dalek starts to move a little. But he will see what happens to the horse. He does not move (don't want to wake the Lady for nothing)But his sences goes on the alert.
Dex check 18 Knowledge of Local 23 Serch 19
Peerimus d20+21=22 Thursday March 30th, 2006 6:01:16 PM
Peerimus stands still his equine face masking his growing confusion and concern. Towards the abbey and the crones old haunts? Chimes are used to open things, unlock doors, portals and such. Could you wake the dead or open a gate to the lands of Rest? The others are going to still be sometime. Peerimus scans the sky for signs of inclement weather approaching, but the night sky gives up no secrets this night. [Survival nat1 nice, a pair of 2's and a 1]
Peerimus looks back to Sly and then to the light trail before him and then back to Sly and paws the ground twice. The trail likely won't just up and disappear, so what do think I wonder good Sly?
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours
Father Jasper d20=20 Thursday March 30th, 2006 8:08:49 PM
Now that he is doen dressing Jasper will start down the stairs and look for the trail that both the murders and Peerimus has left (surviral nat 20 24 total ) and start on his way as fast as he can
Savin Thursday March 30th, 2006 9:03:25 PM
Savin will move along with his group but have no idea where the others are going. He has no skills in tracking. He tries to call out to the others to see if they can hear him. Sly! Peerimus! Where are you!"
Jaeden Ohm Thursday March 30th, 2006 9:26:36 PM Dalek, quick my friend, I need you. Meet me to the north of this human place.
While he sends the thought Jaeden does his best to share the directional concept his thought includes.
He looks to Firngaer, "do you have a way to get us there quickly?"
If no positive answer it forthcoming he bolts out the inn and towards the north gate. "Come on guys, quick. One of you can ride with me but not both."
Coming Together (DM/Al) d20+7=13 Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:12:17 PM
Sly Foxx knows the area. To the east is the old Abbey. And nearby is the Circle of Five Stones where they Crones had once given birth to their replacements.
Peerimus stops and surveys the night sky. The pause gives Sly Foxx the chance to finish pulling on his armor. The druid in horse form sees a clear and cloudless sky, an pleasant evening, the continuation of what was a pleasant day. What may come later is a mystery to him. He paws the ground as though asking Sly Foxx what he would do. Head off after the fleeing figure? Or wait here in case the others are following?
Savin and Jones continue north up the street. Savin calls out in a loud voice that can probably be heard by anyone living in the houses along the street. The sound certainly carries as far as Sly and Peerimus at the North Gate. Soon enough, despite the older man's slower pace, Savin and Jones come in sight of the North Gate. Through the gate they see a horse, and riding bareback on the horse is Sly Foxx.
Father Jasper emerges from the front of the inn with Jaeden. By the most remote of chances, he picks out the bloody footprints of the thief on the hard paved street. (BTW, that's a Search Check to see Tracks for those who don't have the Track Feat, Father Jasper. And you must have the Track Feat if you want to *follow* any Tracks.) Unfortunately, though he can see them, he is baffled as two which way they go. But Firn'gaer had said that the signature on the screen had gone North. And the road in front of the inn only runs North and South. There is only one way to go.
Jaeden, in silent communication with his faithful companion, feels more than sees an image of the inn. That was the last place that Dalek had seen his friend. And, as Jaeden moves north up the street with Father Jasper, he receives the feeling from his mouth that he is coming this way.
In the Glade, Lady Silverhand stirs, but she does not wake. (Listen check 3 after Penalty.) Sly raises his head as Dalek bolts from the glade at a run.
Meanwhile, Firn'gaer watches as the moving dot swiftly converges upon the two stationary ones.
=== OOC ===
Position Recap ============== Peerimus and Sly are just outside the North Gate of Heranmar. Savin, Jones, Silus, and Marten are just inside the North Gate within sight of Peerimus and Sly. Firn'gaer is in his room looking out the open window. Jaeden, and Father Jasper are headed north up the street. Lady Silverhand is in the glade with Yorrick, Luke. She is asleep. Dalek is moving at a hustle to the south toward the North Gate of the city.
Sly is now fully armored.
Note: Father Jasper, there is 250 gp Material Component for the True Seeing spell. Material Components costing more than 1 gp must be purchased in the Catacombs. I don't recall you purchasing the Material Component. And if you don't have it, I can't allow you to cast that spell.
Being a spellcaster requires some study by the player as well as by the character. It's not always an easy thing.
Sly and Luke Friday March 31st, 2006 7:43:31 AM
Sly pulls down on his shirt and now is fully dress. But at the same time thinking, "Peerimus! I know that up ahead there a dirt road the leads east all the way to Old Traders Road. On this dirt road is the old Abbe, it is almost croumble down to the basement. There to the side is five mounds of stone??
Wait a minute Did you hear something? Yes! it's the rest of our party!OVER HERE! OUT SIDE OF THE GATES! Now where was I? Oh! Yes! Along the side of the five statues, is two giant tree where the arch was open for us to come back from the Neither Wold! that's what happen. Now what I'm afraid of is the Arch (leading to the other wold) is still there and the chimes just might open when there are ringing? I wish Luke was here, but I can lead you to the Abby!" Sly tell Peerimus of the events of back history and location.
"Better wait untill the rest of the party gets here or go ahead, you cannot miss the dirt road. We'll catch up! The choice is yours, my friend. But I would NOT go alone."
Luke seeing that the horse is now moving towards the town, He gets up on his paws and Barks! at Lady Salina. Goes to the edge of the woods and turns back Barking!! When he see that she's awake He'll tell her, "Wake! Big Trouble! Your needed!" Now goes to the edge of the woods again waiting for Lady Salina to follow!
Peerimus d20+21=28 d20+13=24 d20+7=24 Friday March 31st, 2006 4:12:39 PM
Peerimus whinny's and nods his head to Sly. It made little sense to shoot off with the group closing, Firngaer, hopefully had some useful information. Another snicker and the clomp of a hoof and Peerimus covers himself in Barkskin. It was likely he would be needing it within the couple hours the spell would last. Looking down at the tracks he followed, Peerimus moves a little further along before casting about inot the darkened night for the sight or sound of movement. [Spot 24 Listen 24]
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 110 Minutes
Firn'gaer Friday March 31st, 2006 6:23:35 PM
After watching the images in the Vision, Firn'gaer thinks he has an understanding of what he sees. "There." He says pointing out the window towards the northern end of Heranmar. "I can't tell if they've reached the gates, but it looks as if that is the direction it is being taken."
He turns from the window. "I can take us a great deal closer if not all the way. If you ready we can get going."
Providing everyone is ready, Firn'gaer will use Dimension Door to go to he north gates. He has a range of 880 feet with the spell.
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
One Plus Two Makes Three (DM/Al) Sunday April 2nd, 2006 12:12:38 PM
Sly and Peerimus remain by the side of the road, facing the moonlit field that leads off to the Abbey and the forest beyond. Peerimus the Horse clothes himself in Father's protective armor as he turns his senses to the east. To the druid's equine eyes, the moonlit landscape is as bright as day. Across the distance of several hundred yards the old ruined Abbey stands in relief against the forest beyond. Still, he sees nothing out of place. No distortion of air. No movement of grass. Nothing.
Savin, Jones, Silus Destin and Marten are now so close as to be able to join Sly and Peerimus at a whim. Jaeden, Father Jasper can be seen coming up the street.
Through his connection with Dalek, Jaeden feels the rush of the woods become the solid open road. He has a sense of noise from behind, a familiar sound that Dalek labels "Luke". In the glade, Lady Silverhand wakens at Luke's barking. She stands next to Yorrick and looks about herself, unsure as to what is transpiring. "Wake! Big Trouble! Your needed!" Luke's voice comes from the south.
"Yorrick? Yorrick?" Without fear of what might be the reaction from waking the great bear, Lady Silverhand kneels to whisper in Yorrick's ear.
Firn'gaer is so intent upon the view in the Vision, that he has not realized that he is alone in his room. Alone for now, but not for long. He casts a spell, and Peerimus, Sly, Savin, Jones, Silus Destin, and Marten all turn as the gnomish wizard steps out as though through a door between dimensions.
There is movement on the screen as it adjusts snapping back to the view of the single dot converging upon the two. The three move about. Just what the three are doing can be answered by only the wildest of conjectures.
(Firn'gaer Only: Highlight to display spoiler: {I'll give you this one for free because of your high INT. You realize that the Vision has most likely shifted to provide you with the last known view and in the process disregarded directionality. That means, that you now cannot rely upon the Vision to tell you in which direction the three dots are in relation to yourself without first, somehow, reorienting things. Though, I suppose that question of direction is pretty easily supplied through other means.})
=== OOC ===
Position Recap ============== Peerimus, Sly, and Firn'gaer are just outside the North Gate of Heranmar. Savin, Jones, Silus, and Marten are just inside the North Gate within sight of Peerimus and Sly. Jaeden, and Father Jasper are headed north up the street within sight of everyone at the Gate. Lady Silverhand is in the glade with Yorrick. Luke is just coming out of the woods. Dalek is headed down the North Road. Not yet in sight.
Savin Sunday April 2nd, 2006 10:33:49 PM
Savin looks around scanning the area for danger. He gives a visible start when Firn'gaer steps through the dimension door but quickly relaxes his posture.
"Well where is this thief? Where is the chime? Give me something to bash!"
Jaeden Ohm Monday April 3rd, 2006 3:55:38 PM
With the group in sight Jaeden hurries to catch up.
When he reaches them, "Any sign of the assassin?"
The warrior keeps part of his mind focused on the path he took to get here. He does his best to pass that image/memory to Dalek. A small headache begins behind his left eye as he applies a type of mental control that he's not used to.
Sly and Luke d20+5=25 Monday April 3rd, 2006 4:34:56 PM
As Sly sits on Peerimus, He points East ward for Firm-gare to orent Norny to see. Sly tell Preemius, " Look here come Luke, that means Lady Salina and Yurrick is not far behind! Over here! Luke!" Sly dismount asking Luke "Look over here There a scent of the killer going east!"
Luke will go to the spot that Sly is pointing to find and follow by tracking.
Luke tracking by scent 25 (natural Twenty)
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+21=26 Monday April 3rd, 2006 4:46:33 PM
Peerimus sits and slides Sly off. Once the Bladesinger is on his own feet again, Peerimus shifts back to his normal leather clad and face painted self. "Splitting up is likely not in our best interst." he says to Sly, "So Speed is also not as important." Knowing he will be moving much slower [30], Peerimus continues following the assassins tracks.
"My primary concern is the assassin and I have their trail." Peerimus's voice is gritty and low almost a growl. He stoops to touch the bent grass of a light footprint. They were not that far in front of him either. Again the he cursed himself for being so far from Yorrick. Together they would have been able to close on this assassin, but he could not now. Peerimus blows a long exhale and his shoulders drop slightly. No fault of thier own, but the group was suffocating him.
Peerimus shakes his head and pulls the stiff berry soaked hair from his face and starts off on the trail. [Track 26]
Yorrick lifts his head at Lukes barking and the whispers in his ear. His ward looked as if she might be leaving. Blinking his eyes to adjust to the dimmer light, the great Kodiak rolled his bulk upon his 4 powerful filled legs and gave a mighty yawn and stretch.
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.8 Minutes
What Waits At The Old Abbey (DM/Al) Monday April 3rd, 2006 10:09:10 PM
The core group is back together. Jaeden and Father Jasper catch up to the rest just outside the North Gate. Both Savin and Jaeden sound eager for vengeance of some sort.
From the road to the north come the drumming of hooves and Dalek appears out of the dark. Sly calls out to Luke, knowing that he must surely be somewhere behind. He points eagerly to the grass where Peerimus had been nosing the trail.
Peerimus returns to human form and cautions against haste. The Wold is darker through his human eyes, but he has the trail already and he follows it through the grass.
Luke arrives at last. Sniffing the grass where Sly points, he scents fresh blood. He follows in Peerimus' footsteps.
Back in the glade, Lady Silverhand remains at Yorrick's side. She looks in the direction in which the horse and dog had left. "Are we going?" she asks her guardian bear.
Meanwhile, Peerimus continues to follow the trail. The crushed grass tells the story of a petite footed creature fleeing with magical swiftness. And from all appearances, the tracks make a beeline toward the dark ruins of the old Abbey.
Firn'gaer is following the movements of the dots on the screen of the Vision. They come together in a rough triangle. And then they disappear.
=== OOC ===
Position Recap ============== Everyone is together except for Yorrick and Lady Silverhand.
Firn'gaer Tuesday April 4th, 2006 7:36:13 AM
Firn'gaer watches the others converge and then disappear from his view in Noxnyx. He snaps as he realizes he's still standing at the gates. He pulls a rod from his pack and using it, he casts a spell of flight. He quickly, as he can, shoots off towards the location of the others.
He lands with the others. "This place blocks the sight of Noxnyx. What is this place? Being unfamiliar with this area, what do we know?"
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 22 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Sly and Luke Tuesday April 4th, 2006 9:51:37 AM
Sly squats down, telling Luke "The assisan is using magic boots, but I know your nose! Go! Help! Peerimus!"
Sly gets up to follows the leader Peerimus, "She'll must have boots of speed or maybe some one is using magic on her??" All sorts of though goes through Sly's head as he runs behind the leader.
Luke get his orders fre Sly, picks up the scent and off he goes behind Peerinus, But slowly going ahead of him. With only one though in mind "get to the scent!'
Peerimus Tuesday April 4th, 2006 5:26:40 PM More good news The thought passes quickly as Firngaer annouces the disappearance of the dots. Peerimus continues following the trail. "We are near the abbey where the Chaos bell took us to Ice Vein I believe. The previous generation of the crones lie nearby as well."
Peerimus nods as Sly moves up alongside, "Very likely Striding boots, the prints are further apart then what happens when a being is hasted."
Yorrick looks at the small human woman and then the direction Luke ran off in and then back to her. "Gnnarrrr." It is low and a short sort of sound from the kodiak. Yorrick takes several strides after Luke and then looks back.
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.7 Minutes
Jones Tuesday April 4th, 2006 5:50:52 PM
Jones examines Marten and Silus to make sure that they're still in passable shape after their ordeal.
While doing this, he answers Firn'gaer with a question of his own, "What's a nox-nix?"
Jaeden Ohm Tuesday April 4th, 2006 7:04:10 PM
Jaeden greets Dalek as the horse reaches the party and buries its head into the warrior shoulder. He gives the enchanted steed a scratch under the jaw while he glances around to take stock of the situation.
Seeing that speed is limited by the ability to track he takes the time to answer Jones' question. "Noxy is one of five artifacts we quest to recover. He is a mirror that shows us the location of those marked by chaos. All of us show up..." he indicates the children of chaos, "... as do you. The other artifacts show up as well. Thats how we knew that Master Silus was in possession of one of the artifacts. What I'd really like to know is how the assassin came across that knowledge."
Savin Tuesday April 4th, 2006 8:52:24 PM
Savin waits for direction. He thinks chasing off into the night is a mistake, but he will follow the direction of the Peerimus.
The Silent Past (DM/Al) Tuesday April 4th, 2006 9:17:45 PM
Hot on the trail of the Thief/Assassin, Sly speculates as to how the creature must be moving so swiftly. Luke, trailing, Peerimus, slowly overtakes and then passes him.
Firn'gaer, finding himself left behind, casts a spell and then takes to the air. Catching up with the rest, he informs the others that the place they are approaching must be blocking the sight of the Vision in some way. As the group is fast approaching, there may soon be a chance to test that theory. The wizard from the North asks about the area.
As the group nears the ruins, Peerimus answers. His simple statement, that the Chaos Bell took them from here to Ice Vein leaves out a great deal of detail. The eerie howling manifestations that ran up and along the walls the last time they were here. The fight with the cleric and his minions. The iron golem named Kulak that had burst from the basement. This time, however, the building is very still.
Jones eyes Silus and Marten in the moonlit darkness. To Jones' trained eye, they show no signs of residual poisoning. But such a thing is difficult to determine without a more thorough examination. They are both decidedly still wounded, and yet they follow the group without a complaint.
Jones also asks about the Vision of Noxnyx, and it is Jaeden, now reunited with Dalek, who answers, calling the artifact by the same familiar name used by the Circle of Far and Away.
Savin follows along. And the Abbey draws near. The tracks most decidedly lead to the broken doors that front the old building. The bell tower, so imposing before, now looks unsound. Part of its wall is crumbled away. The interior of the building, seen through the front doors that stand open on broken hinges, is a patchwork of darkness. The party carries no light, and even to those with Low Light vision the interior is hidden and indistinct. Shapes of darkness alternate with shapes of light where the moonlight shines through holes in the ceiling and walls.
The place is silent as the grave. And yet, at the same time, the old broken down building is heavy with a sense of history.
Father Jasper Wednesday April 5th, 2006 5:16:51 AM
Father Jasper Who has been following up until this point stop and points of we need a plan of attack here i am sure that the assasin know that we will follow adn has a plan for this and i am sure that if we just wing it one of us is going to die. Firn'gaer is there and magice here, wards or other wise that you can see
Jasper pull a rod (extend) from his pack and casts bless on the party then grabs a small stone from the ground and cast daylight (extended as well if able )again if able will cast bull str on Jones (extended also 20 min )
Active Spells Bless ( 20 min) Daylight stone (20 min)
Occ Jon sorry about the not posting but my young lad broke his leg on friday and its been a bit hard to find the time to post
Sly and Luke Wednesday April 5th, 2006 9:40:10 AM
As Sly with Peerimus, he points of the five black mounds, "There rest the five witches of old. They gave up their lives keeping the portal open to let us Children back into the Wold again, alive."
Sly turns to the two trees (one leaning on the other (Making a round X), "There was the Arch!" Sly now turns to the Abby, "Oh! Boy! Does this place have a history!"
Luke arrives a little ahead of Sly but Behind Peerimus, He is sniffing around the Bell tower. "Here!" is all he said.
Jones Wednesday April 5th, 2006 3:37:04 PM
Jones resolves to keep a casual watch on Silus and Marten to provide healing if needed.
"Do you know how many of these chaos artifacts there are for you to hunt down, and what's supposed to happen when you find them all?"
Peerimus Wednesday April 5th, 2006 4:28:13 PM
Peerimus stops and goes into a crouch to lower his target profile to any who may be watching. "The good Father Jasper is correct. The assassins knoww far too much to not know about our ability to easily follow them and assuming they chime would have produced a noise when struck, I do not think that is the reason they blinked out of Firngaers sight. Means this place has somethin to do with it..." Peerimus stops in mid thought stroking his chin. "Or they teleported or something like that."
Looking towards the darkened building, "The trail leads in there and I intend to follow it until it eludes my skill." Peerimus nods as Jasper starts casting and he casts Protection from Energy [Fire]
"Keep alert. Any other prep spells? Jones you watch out for Silus and Marten. Jeaden, Sly and Savin stay right with me. Jasper and Firngaer, keep an eye for enemy casters and counter them."
Peerimus stalks forward, following the trail.
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, *Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.7 Minutes
Firn'gaer Wednesday April 5th, 2006 6:31:59 PM
"I can if they are present, Father Jasper." He says but turns his attention to Sly. "Portal...hmm..." The wizard says stroking his bearded chin. "Where did this portal go? I wonder if it's linked to the theft?" He says talking to himself aloud.
"The items, there are five items in all." He says to Jones. "There is Vision of Noxnyx, the Amulet of Seribond, Faraday the Circle of Far and Away, Xaos the Chimes and...I can't seem to remember the last one." He say placing his hands on his hips. "The items have different abilities to allow Destiny's Chosen to complete their destiny and prevent the awakening of the Destroyer. After we have recovered Xaos, it will allow us to travel to the realm where the essences of the Destroyer is. Then with the last item we will call forth the Destroyer, prematurely mind you, and do battle with him in a less powerful form. At least that's the idea anyway. Any of this making sense to you, Jones."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 22 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Traces of Habitation (DM/Al) Wednesday April 5th, 2006 9:45:39 PM
After the hurried journey from the Inn to the North gate, Father Jasper finally recovers his wind and his voice. As the party stands before the old Abbey, he casts Alemi's blessing upon the group and also brings forth a light bright as day. It lights the front of the building from below casting shadows along the crumbling roofline. The bell tower looms above, like a giant creature looking down from above.
Father Jasper also touches Jones with a spell, and the man feels his muscles swell with strength. Then the priest of Alemi calls for a plan.
Meanwhile, Sly indulges in a little history. He makes a mark on one of a pair of trees. Once a portal to the Land of the Dead, they now appears no more than old trees. Luke sniffs at the base of the bell tower. The wardog has been here many times. The tower stands above him, as though looking down. But aside from that, there is nothing.
Jones keeps an eye on Silus and Marten. Marten stands a few paces before the caravan master, as though protecting him. He turns to the Abbey and holds his hands out before him as he did at when the group first encountered the caravan. After a moment of concentration, he turns back to Silus and shakes his head.
"Marten detects no presence of evil within," he informs the group.
Jones also asks about the artifacts, and Firn'gaer answers.
"Errrr, that's not quite right." The whisper comes from the brass circle that the wizard has brought along with him. Larger than a the head of a good sized human, it is somewhat awkward in the gnome's grip. And now the Circle speaks. "I've been sort of quiet. Because everyone else has always told me to shut up. Especially, well, when things get ... tense. But, er, you got it a bit wrong there, Firn'gaer. I'm the one who takes you to the Place Out of Place. Once you're there, you use Xaos to call the Avatar of Chaos before its time. And once you defeat it, you use the Shroud of Atman to resurrect Chaos and scatter it back out across ... well, everything."
"Not meaning to correct your or anything. But that's the way things are supposed to go."
Peerimus casts a protective spell upon himself, and then forges ahead. The light from Father Jasper's stone lights the ground. But the light is hardly necessary, as there appears to be a lot of recent activity through the front doors of the Old Abbey. The grass nearby is well trampled. And there is a path worn in the dust within the Abbey from the front door, around an area of fallen masonry and shattered floorboards, and straight to a door leading down into a basement or cellar. All is dark down in the basement. Silent and dark.
Savin watches off to the side, ready to fight if necessary. Jaeden stands with Dalek. The out of doors is kinder to the mounted man. From the North come Yorrick with Lady Silverhand walking by his side. It's difficult to miss the light of Father Jasper's stone. It shines like a beacon, visible from quite a distance away.
Firn'gaer (second) Wednesday April 5th, 2006 9:51:40 PM
"My appologies, Faraday. I didn't mean to forget you and your roll. I'm sorry." He says to the Circle of Far and Away. "I don't mind if you talk. If you want someone to talk to I'll be happy to converse with you."
Savin blinking 1/7 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 10:19:03 PM
Savin looks at the others and then back at the abbey and then back to the others. He then sees Peerimus start to move forward and rushes forward and places a hand on his shoulder stopping the druid from advancing.
"We all have roles in the group. Yours is to lead. Jaeden's is to chop people up and trample them with his horse, (Savin grins at Jaeden), Firn'gaer's is to blow large groups up and mine is to scout. Then Jasper's role is to try and fix me up after a stubble across something. I go first in these situations."
Savin will grin at the cleric of nature and and then activate his blink ring. "Besides, I have a new toy to play with."
Savin will dart forward and keeping low hustle up to the abbey, scanning his head left and right. He will move up to the door way and peek in.
Sly and Luke Thursday April 6th, 2006 7:18:07 AM
Sly slaps his forehead (Slap!)then tell all, "NOW! it all makes sence! Five artical the Ring, the Neclace, the Vision Glass, the Chimes and the Black Sword! And the five Witches! Oh! We're in for the fight of our lives!" Sly faces Peerimus.
Luke Sits there next to the Bell Tower, asking Sly "What Now? Wait for Savin?" panting with his thung out.
Peerimus Thursday April 6th, 2006 9:16:16 AM
[multiple post day] Peerimus stops with Savin's hand to his shoulder and glances up at him. "The trail leads to teh basement door. I really do not want to have a closed encounter fight with them. Trail now suggests certainly more than our solo assassin. Savin, get to the door, open it, peak in and then get back here."
Jones Thursday April 6th, 2006 9:48:29 AM
"Thanks Firn'gaer that pretty well sums it up, but I do have a couple more questions. The circle is an artifact of power and not a circle of witches? And do you have all of the artifacts except for this Xaos one?"
Firn'gaer Thursday April 6th, 2006 10:18:54 AM
"That is correct." He says to Jones. "Faraday is the Circle of Far and Away. We have three of the five. The thief stole Xaos and Atman's location is still unknown, for now."
He directs, his, questions to any of the members from the area. "What more can you say of this portal and its destination. I'd like to know more about this because I feel a sense of coming full circle about this." He says. "How many of you went through this portal and what can be said of the other side?"
"Savin don't be in such a rush. I know everyone is in a hurry to exact revenge and all, but I think we need to look at what this place represents. The thief fled here for a reason and I'd like to know what that is. The answer lies within what happened the last time you were here. So please, can someone tell me what happened."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 21 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Peerimus Thursday April 6th, 2006 11:23:04 AM
"We have been here multiple times Firngaer. So it would depend. The bell tower there used to house the actual Chaos Bell, The gate made by the trees, soley existed while the Crones held it open. Sly was the only one who went through and again the gate leads to the Realm of Shadow. Now last time I was here, involved an iron golem who through the Chaos Bell I believe became self aware. We left him here when we went to Ice Vien and who knows where he then went."
"Answers lie through the basement doors and sitting about out here will not answer any of them and certainly not why the thief came here, but to deliver the Chimes to someone who went through that door. Which puts the Chimes through that door."
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, *Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.7 Minutes Protection from Energy Fire
Firn'gaer d20+7=19 Thursday April 6th, 2006 11:42:00 AM
[Second post]
The wizard rubs his chin then retrieves Noxnyx and Faraday. He focuses his thoughts again on Xaos willing its signature to appear in the mirror.
If it doesn't, Firn'gaer will ask Faraday. "Can Noxnyx look across planar boarders to see Xaos? Also, could you transport us there should we need?"
"All I ask is to take a few moments and think about what is drawing us here. This has nothing to do with a murder. I think this is entirely to draw us here. Therefore, I'd like to figure out what information we may have and don't know before we charge in headlong, as usual."
Int check DC19
Sly Thursday April 6th, 2006 6:46:51 PM
"Oh! My Gosh! Am I the only one left that went through that Gate back into this Wold? What do you want to know? I'll try to remember!" Sly tell Firm-gare while scratching his head.
"Savin was with us before Peerinus, Firm-are joined us in Ice-Vane, Jaeden Joined us in Floating City, you know the one with many layers. Fr Jasper and Lady Salina joind us a little later, and finaly Bro Jones joined us a little while ago. My gosh! how time Flies?" relates Sly.
Exploring Avenues (DM/Al) Thursday April 6th, 2006 9:42:29 PM
Savin steps up before Peerimus enters the Abbey. It's his role to be the Cat's-paw. To probe the way, to trip the trap, to be the bait, to take the fall. He activates his new ring and his form begins to flicker rapidly in the light of Father Jasper's Daylight stone. Peerimus points him to the basement door, and Savin makes his way across the floor. The basement door, like the front door, also hangs loose on its hinges. There is no need for Savin to open it, as it hands wide open anyway. Light from out front spills over Savin's shoulder revealing a set of old wooden stairs that lead down into darkness. More light might help the human monk to see better.
Outside, Sly Foxx makes a connection between the Five Crones and the five artifacts. While Jones receives the last few pieces to fill his puzzle and round out a picture of just what he's getting into.
"Thanks," the voice of Faraday replies to Firn'gaer, and as the wizard fills Jones in, it makes little noises of confirmation and agreement. "Yup. That's right. Uh-huh. Hmmmm ... Never know what you might find ... " It almost seems as though the artifact just likes to hear the sound of its own voice.
The tiny nagging voice of suspicion tickles Firn'gaer's mind, and he asks about the portals. Peerimus and Sly answer the best they can. The wizard calls for a more studied approach to the bloody mayhem that has been visited upon the group this night. And, to that end, he silently wills the Vision of Noxnyx to reveal the Chime of Xaos. Firn'gaer feels nothing. Even more to the point, nothing appears on the screen.
"Across planes? Yes, I can take you." The Circle of Far And Away says in reply to Firn'gaer's questions. "But ... Noxy doesn't see very well across planes, and, like I said before, without him to see for me, it's dangerous for me to take you anywhere. Distance doesn't bother him much. In fact, I'm pretty sure he doesn't really know what distance is. Or did I say that? But, he doesn't see across planes well. Anywhere in the Wold, though, if Noxy can see it, I can take you there. Just ask, and we'll see if we can get you there."
"Hum dum-dee dum ... " The artifact hums happily to itself.
It is Peerimus who points out the only lead the group has that is back by solid practical evidence. The trail into the basement.
Sly and Luke Friday April 7th, 2006 8:06:30 AM
Sly look to Peerimus, taking his sword out from under his back pack, Tells the leader "Ready when you are! Luke come!"
Luke jumps up and quickly comes to Sly "Alright Boss!"
Peerimus and Yorrick Friday April 7th, 2006 3:40:59 PM
Peerimus waits by the door of the delapitated building for Savin. "Remember Savin is going to report back, so no one goes dashing in." Overhearing part of teh conversation Firngaer is haveing he calls out to Savin, "Test the door way with something other than you, it very well may be a planar gate."
Upon seeing Peerimus the big bear breaks into a lnad chewing gait and quickly arrives at the druids side, his furred bulk dwarfing the lean frame of Peerimus
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, *Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.6 Minutes Protection from Energy Fire
Jones Friday April 7th, 2006 3:52:19 PM
"Sorry to be a bother but does divination magic work to find the artifacts or just the mirror?"
Firn'gaer Friday April 7th, 2006 9:13:22 PM That's what I was afraid of.
"Be careful, Savin, this is a trap." He says in response to Peerimus
He responds to Jones query. "No, I'm afraid I don't have the divination ability to seek the artifacts with out Noxnyx's.
"It appears that there are few reasons why Noxnyx can't see find the other artifacts. It is being masked by powerful magic or it is not on this plane. I suspect the later. I also think the portal to the Realm of Shadows has been open again hence the location."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 21 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Savin blink 2/7 d20+13=30 d20+13=21 Friday April 7th, 2006 10:11:52 PM
Savin decides that more direct action is needed. He moves up to the side of the basement door and instead of going through the door, He will blink through the wall moving into the room. When he rematerializes, he will crouch done and see what he can see.
spot 30 listen 21
Father Japer Friday April 7th, 2006 10:50:33 PM
With the patiance of age Jasper will wait with the other until Savin reports back,
He makes a silent pray to Alemi for luck and hopes for the best here
Waiting For Savin (DM/Al) d100=63 d6=1 Saturday April 8th, 2006 1:39:31 PM
Yorrick comes out of the lumbering out of the dark and into the circle of Father Jasper's Daylight. Moments behind, Lady Silverhand appears as well, quiet as ever.
The rest of the group wait for Savin to enter the basement. The wait is only broken by Jones who asks if anybody had thought to find the artifacts through divination. Firn'gaer responds that they have so far not had divination of any significant nature available.
Faraday breaks off his tuneless humming momentarily for a suggestion.
"Er, if you want to find Xaos, I could ask Noxy where she is. If you'd like, that is." Then it continues on with its cheery humming, an avant-garde counterpoint to the eerie old Abbey, background music for the night scene.
Inside, Savin approaches the door to the basement. Though it is his role to be first into danger, that doesn't mean that he need necessarily court danger. Distrustful of the open doorway and it's dark interior, the clever monk decides to use one of the powers of his new magic item to circumvent the doorway itself. (50% chance to materialize within the wall. 51 or Greater is Safe = 63)
To Savin's eyes, the Wold is a mix of the Gray Ethereal Plane and the normal colors of his own reality. Savin steps through the wall next to the doorway and into total darkness. Savin's stomach leaves him and the Wold spins end over end. It is only when his shoulder strikes something solid that he realizes that he had been falling. (15 foot fall. No Dex or Tumble due to Blinding from the darkness. 1 hp damage from the fall, but 1/2 taken away from Blinking leaves no damage.)
But the fall does not end there. Savin continues down a dirt incline, sliding, rolling and finally fetching up against level ground with a clatter. (Clatter?) His eyes adjust quickly after that, and though he cannot see the area around him, he can see the trapezoidal figure of the doorway. It looks down on him from above, backlit with Daylight.
A quick internal check reveals himself to be unhurt. Within the reach of Savin's hands, the floor feels earthen. It feels earthen to one of Savin's hands. Savin's other hand runs over a lattice of shapes. Some of the shapes are smooth to the touch. There is also a moistness here. He comes across one that is jagged sharp. Another falls away from his groping hand and clatters as it strikes others of its kind. There is a sickly smell of corruption in the air, a smell like rotted meat.
Meanwhile outside, all is quiet. What's happening inside? Is Savin in trouble?
Firn'gaer Sunday April 9th, 2006 6:09:33 AM
"Yes, could ask where Xaos is. I would appreciate that." He responds to Faraday.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 21 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Sly and Luke d20+6=16 d20+6=10 Sunday April 9th, 2006 7:21:41 AM
Sly who was standing next tp Peerimus, will not go down on one knee to look inside of the the basement, (after all he never went into this part of the Abby.) Sly sees only a black,nothing. hetries to hear, again nothing. "Hmmm! not normal!" he think to himself, Sly tell Luke, "Luke! I need you to go back to my room at the Inn and get my back pack and bring it to me."
Luke takes off, sniffing the ground, (Hewill use tracking by scent, to go back to the Inn for Sly's back Pack.)
Meanwhile Sly ask, "Does any one have a torch I can use?"
OOC; I don't know how long (in rounds)it will take for Luke to go to the inn and back.
Father Jasper d20=19 Sunday April 9th, 2006 1:07:43 PM
Hearing the request from Savin ( listen check 25 I think) jasper reaches into his pack and grabs out his everburning torch and looks over the side to where Savin is calling from he drops the torch down to savin
Jaeden Ohm Sunday April 9th, 2006 2:11:24 PM
Having been ready to advance with Peerimus, Jaeden is left to stand guard as Savin changes the course of events. He waits for Peerimus to make a call.
***ooc***
sorry for the missed posts. Had to fly off to NY real quick and thinks got hectic.
Savin blinking 3/7 d20+13=21 d20+13=28 d20+13=28 Sunday April 9th, 2006 9:40:11 PM
Savin stands up feeling more embarrassed than hurt. He quiets and extends his senses to try and pick up anything, trying to will his eyes to adjust to the darkness.
spot check 21 listen check 28
If he senses nothing, he will call out to his companions. "I am alright! Be careful, the floor drops off suddenly. Don't come in without light. I don't know if I am alone in here but I don't see anyone."
If Savin does hear or see something then he will remain silent and move towards the sound as quietly as he can.
Move silently 28
Father Jasper Sunday April 9th, 2006 10:47:57 PM
Occ Opps wrong person on the request for light but i will give the torch to sly instead and drop the light stone to savin
Sly Monday April 10th, 2006 3:35:01 PM
Sly is kneeling looking into the darkness, not wanting to yell, but does look back to the rest of the party, Anybody ave a torch we could use? I left mine back in the Inn!"
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+21=37 Monday April 10th, 2006 4:12:15 PM
Peerimus keeps his eyes to the interior of the house, but his ears easily tell him of Yorricks arrival and all too familiar grunts and smell. His hand reaches into the space between them and is quickly rewarded by Yorricks tongue a nibble and his quite cold and wet nose. Eyes still afixed in front of him, a light dances through them and a great smile finds a place upon his face. Not quite what I had in mind on not going through the door. But. Peerimus mentally shrugs.
Father Jasper tosses the small stone with the Daylight spell and the druid pays attention to it, hoping very much the doorway is not a gate of some kind.
Assuming the stone skips into the basement...Hearing Savin call out that he is alone and all right, Peerimus gets up and moves swiftly towards the basement doorway. Yorrick right behind him and with a wave to everyone else, "Let's go friends." Once down, he begins scanning the ground for additional signs of passage. [Track Survival 37]
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, *Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.5 Minutes Protection from Energy Fire
Multiple Bogies. (DM/Al) Monday April 10th, 2006 9:07:15 PM
"Yeah sure. Right," the brass Circle chirps to Firn'gaer.
Meanwhile, Sly enters the Abbey and moves to the basement door. It's still dark down there, even with the light from the Daylight spell behind him. He calls for a torch, and Luke makes to run all the way back to the Inn when Father Jasper enters as well. Walking to the basement door, he takes out an everburning torch. The torch he gives to Sly, and the Daylight stone, he throws through the door.
The stone goes through the door and bounces once on the wooden steps before striking with a thud on the dirt floor beyond. Downstairs the entire basement is now as brightly lit as a day at full noon. Savin finds himself at the bottom of a large hole. A long time and many adventures ago, a different group, not yet called the Southern Lights had stood around this hole. Down below was a metal ring protruding from the earth, part of a thing still mostly buried in the ground. Luke remembers. His master Trace had reached out to touch the ring, touching the Chaos Bell for the first time in millennia.
Now the bottom of the pit is filled with bones. Fresh bones too, from the blood and scraps of meat that still cling to them. There are long bones, legs and possibly arms, twisted and splintered, cracked open for their marrow. Some of the bones are clearly human. There is a skull with the top crushed in, possibly to expose the brain.
The basement is unoccupied. As Savin stands he sees that he stepped through the wall and straight out into open air. The open basement is devoid of furniture. There are scraps of paper, typical of the wrapping that binds iron rations. Bloody tattered clothing. There is a flash of yellow in one corner. It looks like hair. No. It's a wig. It's a blonde wig, and around it are the remnants of a disguise kit.
This basement looks as though it's been occupied for several weeks.
One last thing catches Savin's eye. On the floor at the edge of the pit is a curled roll of parchment, doweling is attached to one end. From where he's standing, the parchment looks blank.
Upstairs, the rest of the group hears Savin call out. He's alright. Peerimus and Yorrick move inside with Jaeden outside to stand guard. Without the Daylight stone, the outside is now dark, lit only by the ghostlike, silvery light of the moon.
Peerimus inspects the floor of the Abbey. The thick dust is much disturbed along several main pathways. Normally the tracks upon a hard wooden floor would give up nothing more than the fact that creatures had passed and many times. However, the creatures that made the tracks appear to be very distinctly from each other. The druid clearly identifies at least three sets of tracks. One is clearly a Large creature, at least as large as Yorrick, but bipedal. The other two are of a medium build, but one of the two has a much slimmer footprint and a lighter tread.
Outside with Jaeden, Firn'gaer waits for the artifacts. If they communicate, it is in silence.
"Um, he understands. I think," the Circle says at last. "He's looking now. He said that Xaos ... well the best translation is, 'displaced her probability matrix'. Noxy's sort of difficult to understand. But, if Xaos has gone very far, it won't be easy to tell how far. Or in what direction, for that matter. The need for fineness of measurement increases exponentially with distance. But once he finds her I could take you there."
Suddenly, the view screen jumps. The dots are back on the screen. One, two, three ... Four. There is a fourth. No. Five. One of them has an extra intensity to it, and intensity that indicates two dots in one space.
And, at the same time, Jaeden, on watch, notes a glow of pure cold blue radiating from a place over the hill to the northeast. Silus Destin follows the warriors gaze. He shares a look with Marten.
"They've come," he says.
Savin d20+16=28 Tuesday April 11th, 2006 12:06:19 AM
Savin will deactivate the ring of blinking as he looks in horror at the bones at the bottom of the pit. Looks like he fell into something nasty's lair. It was a good thing that it wasn't home at the time. He will reach down and grab the scroll, tuck it away for future study and then climb out.
Climb check 28
He will carefully pick his way over to the rest of the group and mentally prepare for the coming of the crones.
Sly Foxx Tuesday April 11th, 2006 7:47:36 AM
Now that there is a light, and Savin has light also, Sly turns to Peerimus as the big bear lick his master face. "Peerimus, I have never been in this part of the Abby before, when I was here last, I had just knock on the door. When they would not open the door I went to sit under a tree back there.
I have a feather fall ring, Do you want me to go down to see if Savin is alright? But how I get back up, I'd need a long rope!"
Sly will wait for and answer from the leader.
OOC; Sly did not hear Firn-gare said about what he's seeing!
Firn'gaer Tuesday April 11th, 2006 8:37:41 AM
"Five more signatures?" He says as looks into Noxnyx. He looks up as they foes advance. "Get out here now!" He yells to the those in the abbey. "We've found Xaos!"
As he does, he puts away the two artifacts he carries. "Sorry Faraday, but I think it'd be safer if you and Noxy are not left out."
"Jaeden, Jones form a line but lets find out if they are hostile first. Jasper something to bolster us would be nice...just in case. Don't wait for the others to come out."
I have a bad feeling about this. Five signatures...one is Xaos and the other four...past Chosen?
"Rufus stay close."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibilty Extended Fly - 21 minutes
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door*, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Peerimus and Yorrick Tuesday April 11th, 2006 11:34:06 AM
As the druid examines the tracks he talks to Savin, "What have you found? Looks like a group of three. One large biped 2 humans one of which is likely female, possibly elven. Makes some sense, Firn said he had three dots before they vanished." The druid sniffs and wipes his nose at what is in the basement. "Whoever they are, they have been here a little while and carry the stench of death with them."
Commotion and Firngaer's voice of alram causes Peerimus to instantly stand and bolt up the stair towards the front door. "Hole's just become unimportant Sly."
Reaching Firngaer, "Five now you say," and he is shaking his head slightly. "I will be struck dumb Savin if the crones crest that hillock."
"I agree Firngaer, we need a line and to move away from this building to a better field. Jaeden you are our oak, Father Jasper stay close to him. Yorrick and Luke will be your left Jaeden. Firngaer and I will stay back to direct and range them with spells. I will bring in assistnace rapidly and try to wall one or two from the rest of thier group."
Savin, you, Sly and Jones should circle right and flank them. use your speed to get close...quickly." Peerimus pats Yorrick on the head, "Ready my friend." As he looks to the companions about him he nods and then pauses, "Apologies Silus and Marten, I have no idea of your abilities and Silverhand, it would be better if you just hid in the abbey." Peerimus fastens on his belt pouch.
Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: *Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, Greater Magic Fang, *Protection from Energy, Nuetralize Poison, Stone shape Level 4: Command Plants, Freedom of Movement, Dispel Magic, Ice Storm Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Flame Strike, Wall of Thorns Level 6: Heighten Baleful Polymorph Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Cast: Longstrider 11 hours Barkskin 109.5 Minutes Protection from Energy Fire
Jaeden Ohm Tuesday April 11th, 2006 4:37:46 PM
Three crisp steps towards the lights and Jaeden pulls his greatsword, defining for the time a 'frontline'. He looks at Luke and Yorrick, planning for a moment how to not get tangled with the beasts.
Once set, he relaxes and waits. It is at this point that that Silus Destin's comment registers. "What do you know Silus? Who's come? Are these the Crones or some new foe?"
The Fury of the Crones (DM/Al) Tuesday April 11th, 2006 10:41:17 PM
The party gathers, preparing for the worst. Sly prepares to go down after Savin. But Savin, after collecting the blank scroll, comes up the wooden stairs, leaving the Daylight stone in the basement.
"Really, Noxy, you don't sa ... mphfmelfpf ... " Faraday's voice is muffled as Firn'gaer calls for the others and stores the artifacts for safety.
Peerimus formulates a quick battle plan, directing forces to the necessary places.
Jaeden steps to the fore, but takes the time to speak to Silus Destin. The Caravan Master's face is painted with surprise as he watches this mixed group of a adventurers prepare for combat.
"It ... Yes," he replies, "It ... They must be the Five Crones. The stones of the old ones lies over that hill. I must go ... " he draws a breath " ... and report that I have lost their commission."
"You ... have not recovered it, by any chance, have you?" he asks Savin. "I didn't think so." With a look of resolve, he turns and marches swiftly up the hill. Marten, surprised, hurries to catch up.
But, even as Silus begins his climb, they come, gnarled old women they may be, but as they crest the hill, they burn with power. Lady Justice leads, small and bent of back, still she walks with the air of a juggernaut. Her one metal arm creaks, filling the air with dreaded thunder. Behind the group is Lady Watcher, hanging back, she listens, with the ruby that replaces her missing ear. The others have been seen by Sly, perhaps by Savin. Wisdom walks on the right hand of Justice. Her eyes see all and know their truth. To the left of Justice, with but one wooden arm on her body, Lady Mercy floats on the air. Magic crackles about her , whipping through her hair and clothes. And just beyond the others, her eyes replaced by pearls of the darkest black Lady Sorrow hobbles along. From her wizened form pulses a void, the depths of which might contain the souls of thousands.
Angry blue light strikes sparks in the night as the Crones march over the hill presenting a face that none has seen for an age upon age.
Then they stop. And the fire of their coming ebbs, drawing down and away. In the wake of the Crones' waning fury, both Silus Destin and Marten drop to their knees, their heads fall into their hands as though to hide their faces.
It is the Chosen Ones. The voice of Lady Wisdom echoes in the heads of all. Even the animals hear the voices in their heads.
"I'm sorry, Wise Ones," Silus Destin cries out into the night. "I've lost the thing that you entrusted me to bring to you. There is no excuse for my failure. I throw myself on your mercy."
You have returned the Chosen Ones, Silus Destin. Again the voice of Lady Wisdom.
We did not know you, Chosen Ones. The voice of Lady Justice.
I could not hear you, above the din of the other voices. This time it is Lady Watcher. I hear all. And I could not find you.
But now they have returned. This time the voice is one that you have not heard before, but the Crone who still flies above the earth, wisps of white hair lifting on the wind like things alive, she turns her face toward the group. Silus Destin, I am Lady Mercy. And I have been charged with shepherding the Chime of Xaos down through the ages. It is a thing not lightly lost.
Champions, I hear all things. This time the voice of Lady Watcher again. It is my charge. And I remember all things that I hear. In all of all the things that I have heard and all the things that I remember, from Watchers down through the Ages of the Wold, there has never been a time when we did not know of you. Your existence comforts us. You have been her for us as we have been here for you.
But for the first time, we cannot feel you.
Rise Silus Destin. And you as well, Paladin Marten. The voice of Lady Justice speaks in the heads of all. You have returned the Children of Chaos to us. And we will find a way to retrieve Xaos.
The Fifth Crone says nothing at all. Instead her dark unseeing eyes stare off into distant realms the likes of which one can only imagine.
=== OOC ===
Take your time with any questions you may have. And feel free to discuss this among yourselves. Read this as many times as you need. I know it's long. And I know I've hit you guys with a lot of little nagging mysteries these past few days. Believe me, they all get resolved. Somewhere down the line.
This is a perfect time to temporarily suspend the single post per day rule. I'll try and respond as much as I can to your posts as they come during the day.
Jaeden Tuesday April 11th, 2006 11:30:12 PM
As the Crones approach Jaeden begins to grow angry. Here are the selfish beings that have taken away choice. Here are the Crones who at a whim feel the right jerk him around from one place to the next.
He didn't really know he felt this way. But nevertheless the anger was there, growing up to the point where they began to speak.
And in their voice he heard the echo of destiny. And so his anger died in the same minute he realized it existed.
Relying on the tactic he usually uses to find out about a situation, he keeps quite and listens.
Savin Wednesday April 12th, 2006 7:13:04 AM
Savin steps forward happy to see the old crones again. Though they jerk him all over the Wold, for some very odd reason, he takes comfort in their presence.
He will step up, bow and ask, "My ladies, I have a question for you. Recently we have seen our old companion Niobe. She said she was training with who I assumed was you. She also told us she was going home.
When we were attacked in the Inn and the artifact was stolen, we were told of a girl assassin with tattoos like ours. Could Niobe be involved in this somehow? Could she have been poisoned against us?"
Father Jasper Wednesday April 12th, 2006 7:24:03 AM
Father Jasper holds in a ready position and waits for someone or something to attack... Without eaven realizing it he begins to chat a prayer to Aleni " My lord Please watch over us and protect us, watch over us in our quest for we try to restore balance as you resotred balance once before plesase hear me and if you sould call us home, know that we are ready and face that challange with open hearts and souls ." Jasper will ready Flame strike for casting
Active Spells Bless ( 20 min) Daylight stone (20 min)
Sly and Luke Wednesday April 12th, 2006 8:40:09 AM
Sly watches the women coming down the hill, his heart leaps in his chest, if he was not a half-elf tears would run down his cheeks. This was almost like seeing his mother again.
Sly steps foward, then goes down on one knee, "It does my heart good to see all of you again. But I had to do things that I could not help, But must suffer for my deeds.
I know when I join this group Children of Chaos, I was very young with no experiace, that it was a mistake that the Bell had taken me along with the rest of these people. Every thing was as you Ladies told me it would be, the Good, the Bad, the Joy and the Pain.
The biggest Pain and crime I had to do was to Kill my Mother and sister Ruby! they had no body Just their heads attach to a monster's body. I had to distroy them. Now i'm ready to take my punishment."
Sly bows his head, and he hope to be brave enought to take his punishment like a man.
Luke listens to Sly tale, then advances to his side, sitting next to him. The dog just watches the ladies.
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday April 12th, 2006 9:26:20 AM
Relief comes across Peerimus and then a small whistful smile at the thought of one of his last statements. Struck dumb indeed The druid takes in the power that radiates from the Crones as he moves forward, his hand going to Yorrick for a moment.
Firn'gaer Wednesday April 12th, 2006 11:34:57 AM
Firn'gaer sees the Crones come into view and his tension eases, slightly. The threat of a fight is fading, only to be replaced by the worry of what they see. The Crones have shown themselves. All five have come into the open to the group. It's not a omen of good-tiding. Firn'gaer fears the opposite and this nagging feeling he had when this all started agains wells within him.
"Ill-omen..." He says on a low voice as he looks upon the Crones.
As they approach, the wizard kneels briefly in respect for the wise women. Returning to his feet he looks around to the others and tries to judge their reactions to the Crones appearance.
[OOC - It looks like I'll have internet access while on vacation. So I'll be able to keep up with posts and email.]
Respect and Understanding-Addendum (DM/Al) Wednesday April 12th, 2006 1:05:08 PM We have seen Niobe. She was brought to us by Ruby Foxx some weeks ago, Savin. The voice is Lady Wisdom. We almost did not know her. At first, we too thought she had changed. But soon we found that it was more than that. We no longer know any of you. I, who see all Truths, both large and small, no longer see the Truth that was once so strong within you, Savin.
Niobe may be a part of this, but we do not know. The Wold is steeped in uncertainty for us. More so than ever we remember. Something has changed. We do not know why. But, perhaps the answer lies in the reason for the theft of the Chime of Xaos.
Please rise. The thoughts of Lady Justice have a deeper sound within the head. We understand your respect. Please understand as well, that we have as much respect for you. Sly Foxx, there is no greater punishment that any could inflict upon you than the one which you inflict upon yourself. But know that many would say that sending one through the doors of death would be preferable to leaving them in a fate worse than death.
Lady Mercy rises higher into the air as Father Jasper begins an incantation that to any with a craft in spells is magical in nature. Her hair floats about her and the wrinkled skin around her eyes narrow in disapproval. Arcane energies gather around her, filling the air with a palpable charge, like tiny insects marching across the skin.
Do you threaten us? The question booms in the heads of all.
And Lady Watcher who hears all and remembers for eternity, echoes Firn'gaer's words. Ill Omen, indeed.
=== OOC ===
Keep in mind that the visible casting of spells is often seen as an attack if there is no prior consent to the casting from those around you.
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+17=30 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 3:02:16 PM
The large bear grunts as the energy levels increase about Lady Mercy and Peerimus is quick to put a calming hand to him and to then move forward and interpose between Father Jasper and The Five. Towards the crones he says, "The good Father Jasper has ever been prepared to defend us and sometimes he is overzealous in that." Peerimus turns his head to Jasper, "There is nothing to be concerned about with the Crones. We are likely more safe than we have been since our births Father"
Looking back to the Five Peerimus's head cocks to the side. As it often does when starts puzzling through some matter or another. After a few moments he looks to Firngaer, "Faraday said the Chaos Beast never seems to remember, Perhaps he has begun to and now is working actively, calling to him from the void those who would support him, delay us and ultimatelu give him the time he needs. They would be our counterparts, bearing similar marks, probably detectable by Noxxnyx as Chaos touched." The druid falls silent and his hand moves to his chin. "perhaps..." The word is slow and soft.
Possible-Addendum (DM/Al) Wednesday April 12th, 2006 3:14:36 PM That is possible.Lady Wisdom in your head once again. We lose you within the voice of others.
I hear a babble where there should be clarity.Lady Watcher.
I do not understand why this should be so.Wisdom again. But in the ways of Chaos, all things have their possibilities.
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday April 12th, 2006 4:02:30 PM
Peerimus nods as the crones speak, "Perhaps it is the awakening of the Fey world and Father from his long slumber that has created a faint conection for the sleeping Chaos as well." Peerimus speaks more to himself then directly to the Crones. He knows he is heard and is not trying to be otherwise, but the tone is of a man simply speaking thoughts aloud as he travels down a logic path.
Savin Wednesday April 12th, 2006 7:15:45 PM
Savin listens to the crones and then says, "Let me be sure that I understand our situation. Our talkative little artifact friend told us of our destiny. We are to be instrumental in bringing back the "Avatar of Chaos" before he is prepared and then using the artifacts scatter him across the cosmos or at least the Wold again stopping him from messing up the normal cycles of life.
It seems that this has been our destiny throughout the eons, a cycle that repeats itself over and over. I am not sure but it sounds like our souls are reborn or reincarnated to before this task when necessary. Guess that doens't matter since I can't remember any of the times before. Still this Avatar of Chaos must be tired of losing everytime and has changed tactics? He has created his own team of heroes to confound or at least delay us so he can gather strength? If they can beat us to the items and hide them or protect them effectively, this could be a major problem.
What do we do? Chase them down now and try to eliminate them and recover the chimes or try and get the other items first. Personally I would rather eliminate the threat but if we lose that battle, the Wold could be in serious trouble."
Father Jasper Wednesday April 12th, 2006 8:35:17 PM
Father Jasper Replys I mean you no harm " he stops the spell and holds his palm up " but uncertain times, and those of trouble sometimes make people uneasy my pardon, I hope there is no disrespect intended, Alemi blessing on you and my aplogys to you"
Active Spells Bless ( 20 min) Daylight stone (20 min)
Firn'gaer Wednesday April 12th, 2006 9:40:55 PM
"That makes sense." He says to Peerimus. "The rebirth of Ebyron and his highly chaotic nature may caused the Destroyer to stir prematurely. Perhaps since he sleeps or is dispursed he doesn't remember or at least not everything. Ebyron's awakening has given him more memories than he would have normally. He's taking actions to prevent his defeat again."
Who Watches Over Who (DM/Al) Wednesday April 12th, 2006 9:58:02 PM Uncertain times.Lady Justice echoes the words of the Alemite priest. Though old and frail in body, her spirit stands solid as an immovable rock. It is times like these when even Justice cannot bring peace. Apologies are accepted. And our respect is returned to you.
We have witnessed the rise of the Fae King Ebyron. The voice of Lady Watcher, younger, a voice firmer than the rest.
We cannot see beyond the soul's passing from the Wold, Savin.Lady WisdomOver the Ages, each group to us has been unique. Many also fall, and many leave the quest. That is great many souls to pass from age to age. But all things are possible.
You are correct though. The Bell lives in you and your line so that Chaos does not become whole and overwhelm all existence. In this, we have always been you Shepherds and your Servants. It is one of your destinies.
The thing that is happening now, though, has never happened before. Chaos has never become aware before his time. But anything is possible.
Again, Wisdom says the words, ... anything is possible.
You will do what you must. And what you do is what you do. This is a new voice, deep and hollow. The fifth Crone raises her head. This is Lady Sorrow, so different from her old self, she looks out with her black unblinking eyes. Not because it is your destiny. But because you are champions. You are heroes. You do because it is what you are.
Do not look to us. We can no longer touch your heroism. Look to your selves, Children of Chaos. Look to yourselves.
Sly and Luke Thursday April 13th, 2006 6:59:56 AM
Sly gets to his feet, stand strait with his shoulders back. With the words still ringing in his ears 'Look to Yourselves'
To himself he relates very lowly, "I have no home, no family, no parents, no sister (Ruby) and no wife (Recena the gyspie), So there for my sword will alway be yours until I fight no more!"
Luke who was beside Sly side heard what was said, now he will tell Sly (loud enough for the Crown to hear) "Me stay too! You go! I go! never part."
Sly look to the Witches and tell then about Luke, "This is Luke, a dog I addopted a long time ago. We the Children was fighting a from of Vampire. When a sprit in a from of a green bird entered his body, but never left the dog body. So today he has a sole, he talk, fight like a Barbarion, and has grown a bit over the years. What he's saying is he want to be a Child of Chaos too. Please forgive him, he has a big heart."
Peerimus and Yorrick Thursday April 13th, 2006 4:57:53 PM
Peerimus nods some more to himself, Ah yes well all very good. I have created a possibility based on nothing that creates basis for what is going on. Nothing but possible, but the druid's stops his thinking and turns back to the crones.
"You sensed something near the Abbey and were coming to do battle weren't you? What were you expecting? How long has it been since you could still feel us? You tapped Silus and Marten to help you gather the arifacts thinking us lost hadn't you. For Silus to have the chiime and ready to deliver, it must have happened before we found Faraday. Did you know we have Seribold the amulet?"
Peerimus ends his string of questions knowing the answers could take him in another direction entirely.
Savin Thursday April 13th, 2006 5:25:02 PM
Savin ponders the crones words and then their course of action. He looks over to Peerimus and says, "Well I am glad you are the leader. Sounds like we have some tough choices ahead. In my opinion, we need to find out more about our counterparts and see if we can neutralize them. I don't like the idea of looking over our shoulders all the time."
Jaeden Ohm Thursday April 13th, 2006 8:20:36 PM
Still Jaeden listens and holds his tongue. His eyes flick from each person to another as they speak or ask questions. At some words he frowns and at others he nods in agreement. Yet others cause him to look to the sky, eyes drifting while he thinks it through.
Fear What Has Come (DM/Al) Thursday April 13th, 2006 9:49:13 PM Lady Justice steps toward Sly and Luke. There is a touch of kindness in the lines of her stern and wrinkled face.
We give thanks that you choose to lend your aide to all in this land. Each one of you. We saw Luke on the docks when he first stepped off the boat. If it were in our power to make him as you are, we would do so. The mark of the Chosen does not come to all. But others may join by their side and they are no less thought of than the ones who bear the mark.
We sense you in many places, Peerimus.Lady Wisdom's voice rises like the wind. But you no longer give us comfort. It has been a week two weeks, maybe three, some days after you left Ice Vein. We could not go to you except through dream, and even that avenue grew faint and unsure as you yourselves grew unsure to us. It is a great evil that can turn our peace into our unease. So when we came to meet Silus Destin, and we felt you so near, we did not know what to expect. We came prepared.
We have sought it since it was lost, after Chaos was restored the time before.Lady Watcher takes up where Wisdom leaves off. We have sought them all. We knew of Seribond and Far and a Way, north across the great ocean near the City that Moves within the Lake that Moves. The Witches of then North consecrate themselves to us. And it is through them that we knew.
We discovered Xaos well before you left for the cold of Ice Vein, and we have been moving it here in anticipation of your return. Silus Destin lead only the last leg of its journey here. We had faith in your return. All things must have faith. We have faith in you. It is good that you have Seribond.
Faith ... It is Lady Sorrow again. I fear what has come. The Wold is no longer One. Faith is all that remains to us.
Look to yourselves, Heroes. It is upon your shoulders that our Faith rests. Faith stands against Fear. The Fear has come.
Sly and Luke Friday April 14th, 2006 7:19:10 AM
Sly stands up strait and tall, about to ask the Witches a question, about a comment Niobe has made to him. (his sister Ruby)
His fear is that if Ruby is still alive and on the wrong side, well she now knows the Children of Chaos Weaknesses.
But in stead he agrees with Savin, "Your Right Savin, It will be tought enough to deal with the enermy, with out old Friends getting into the mix!"
Luke watches his masters back and the witches, just waiting for a word from Sly.
Peerimus and Yorrick Friday April 14th, 2006 2:13:03 PM
Things fall into thier place in the druids mind, it was indeed the stirring of the Fey King from the lands beyond that tipped Chaos to the Wold. Coincidencees were mounting and becoming evidence to that fact. So now where to go from here? With an active power set against them, it seemed foolish at best to employ Faraday to jump to the Chimes present location, but how could they learn more about who took the Chimes and who thier associates might be. Peerimus was at a complete loss save one narrow avenue and that would have to wait until the morning, but it would be a start.
Breaking from his own thoughts he nods in Savin's diretion. "I agree and I believe I will have a starting point come the morning." Peerimus then looks back the the Crones, "Yet another question if I may. Is the mirror the only way to locate the other artifacts, besides your own powers and they be masked? If taken off plane or placed in non or extra dimensional spaces?"
"I think everyone needs to be informed, my thought is at first light to speak with the stones and plants about the abbey and learn what we may. I also plan to try and scry on Niobe, Shiraz, Trace, Jurgen and even Sir Thomas. Others I would simply not know well enough and have nothing of thier possesions. This I think will give us at least a start. They likely know us far better than we know them. Our advantage in this sould likely come from Jaeden and Father Jasper, both being new in our quest."
Peerimus again adresses the Crones, specifically Lady Sorrow, "Fear not, we shall guard your faith and by our faith no fear shall stand."
Do What Is Necessary (DM/Al) Saturday April 15th, 2006 9:32:33 PM
Sly ponders the implications of what has been brought to light. And except for Peerimus, the rest of the Children of Chaos are silent. Whether from reticence, from perplexity, or from the depth of their thoughts, they say nothing.
Lady Wisdom answers Peerimus' last question. There are many ways to locate the five objects. Some ways are as simple as knowing them and trailing them through the myths and legends that they leave behind. But I suspect that you are speaking of The Chime of Xaos, Peerimus. And you are wondering whether it may be hidden by crossing to other planes. All things are possible in an infinite cosmos. But we know that The Vision of Noxnyx can see across some dimensional barriers. A bag of holding will not shield Xaos from the eyes of Noxnyx. Noxnyx has seen even into the vastness of Jericho Space.
We leave you now. The voice of Lady Sorrow. There is a wrongness to the Wold.
This we must investigate.Lady Mercy.
We will listen to the winds.Lady Watcher.
And we will do what is necessary.Lady Justice.
The Five Crones turn without another word, and they walk back up the hill. At the top of the hill, they continue, climbing up into the empty air before fading from view.
The front of the ruined Abbey is quiet. A breeze bends the grasses under the dark moonlit sky.
=== OOC ===
You know what you know. You got what you got. What you do now, is up to you. I'll entertain any questions to further clarify things that have been presented. Or you may pursue other avenues of investigation. You have at least one way available to the Chime right now.
Peerimus and Yorrick Monday April 17th, 2006 9:32:58 AM
Peerimus claps his hands before his chest and gives a slight nod as the crones depart. "As will we." The druid then turns back to those called to be the Wold's champions against the Chaos.
"One thing they said above all else I hope rings true to each of you. We are not here because of some great powers pushing us about like pawns for thier amusement. I personally do not believe we are destined to be marked with the tatoo and to take up the fight against the Chaos." The druid levels his gaze at each of his companions in turn. "We are here because our hearts call us as heroes to go where others fear to, to do what others can not and to see the good of the Wold not be turned or overun. We are here because we value the lives and well being of our people above ourselves. Like those of this town, of Floating City, the tribes of the Ice Vein and all the others in all the places we have and have not been."
"I have not said anything about this before as I too felt us each cursed in some way, flitted from here to there, but I was wrong. I felt a calling when I first came to the Chaos mark and tracked down Sly, Jurgen, Trace and the others. It was the call of adventure, of making the Wold a better place and that of a hero. The Mark and whispers of Father and Mother merely created an avenue for me. If I were not marked I would still be on the road and so would each of you."
"The Crones have put back into the the light, that which I had darkened. You must look back to yourselves on this as well. The game has chang greatly and those who are not hearing the call of the hero should go. Many have left this quest or have ignored the call, a few more will not matter. NO ONE here is trapped against thier will. To say so is simply untrue."
"For tonight, I do not believe the town is safe and I certainly do not think the abbey is with what Savin discovered inside. I am going to return to the Inn and gather what I left behind, I suggest the same for everyone else. We should lay the fallen in state as well. Perhaps a Gentle repose if you have it Father Jasper. I will then be going to the glade. In the morning I would suggest Father Jasper speak with Reena and Kom. I will be prepared to speak with the Abbey and the land about it. Firngaer will speak with Faraday and Nox about locating the Chimes and then we can decide from there learning what we have."
Father Japser Monday April 17th, 2006 9:50:09 AM
Jaspwer looks at the druid ands says with a bit of time I can do as you ask for both requests, also I am heartend by your words my friend, and your faith although I did not think this a punishment but a blessing by Alemi for I go where he sends me
Father Japser Monday April 17th, 2006 9:56:06 AM
occ my last three four posts before today did not show up agin and happy easter all
Sly and Luke Monday April 17th, 2006 12:51:00 PM
"Your right, Peerimus! At first I though it was a mistake, but now I know that it was the right path to take. After you, Peerimus! I'll get the rest of my gear, for me and Luke. Can I help any one with their Gear"
Sly will follow Peerimus to the Inn, If Peerimus has any other idea for Sly. Then he'll do as he is told.
Luke will follow Sly and Yurick.
Jaeden Monday April 17th, 2006 6:54:22 PM
Coming on the heels of his own 'hearing' of destiny in the Crone's voice, Peerimus' speech works as intended on Jaeden. Nothing in life feels quite like knowing your purpose.
Somehow it makes the terribly daunting reality of the future not so bad. Chaos itself... the rise of heroes... what will be will be.
He nods at the Druids suggestion of returning to the inn and remounts a saddleless Dalek.
Savin Monday April 17th, 2006 7:06:09 PM
Savin listens to the speech from the crones and then to Peerimus. He says with a grin, "I thought I was here for the loot!"
Savin then becomes more serious and says, "We need to be cautious on how we protect the items we already have. We now know there is a group of very nasty individuals with skills that exceed or at least rival our own. They were able to take out some powerful people very quickly. I would bet we are as much targets for them as they are targets for us. Can we take any precautions on protecting the items from simple theft?"
Savin starts moving back towards the Inn, with a heavy heart. Reena was a lot of fun. He knew she wasn't the right girl for him. A little to jaded and cynical but she shore did teach him a lot and to see her just cut down like a piece of meat. He is quiet for most of the journey back lost in his own thoughts.
The Day After Death (DM/Al) Monday April 17th, 2006 10:16:02 PM
The Children of Chaos collect themselves for a return to the inn where their things still wait. They go with a new purpose in their hearts.
"You mentioned Niobe." Silus Destin still stares at the place at which the Crones had faded in the air. "You may still have a chance to speak with her. She's contracted with me to return to Hook City tomorrow." At this news, Lady Silverhand, standing in the dark, raises her head. She looks at the tattoo on her hand as Silus Destin continues. "If it makes any difference, and I can't say this for sure, it was dark, and whoever hit us hit hard and then vanished like a ghost. But it sure seemed to me as though her hand was dark skinned."
Lady Silverhand makes her decision. On soft quiet feet, she approaches the Caravan Master. Without a word, she looks up into his face. Silus Destin reads from her expression.
"You want to go too." It is not a question. "Back to Hook City." He nods. "Alright. We'll have two ladies along for the return trip, Marten. We'll take the bodies of Kon and Reena back to their families too. After you're through questioning them."
The return to the Inn is uneventful. The streets are dark in the moonlight. The Inn still sleeps, a testament either to the relative quiet with which the group made their earlier departure, or to the amount of liquor consumed that night by the other guests.
The bodies still lie upon the floor, lit by the everburning torch in the corner. The blood has not even dried yet.
(Savin, Will Save please. And an INT check.)
=== OOC ===
I hear no objections to Peerimus' suggestion to spend the night in the glade. If you have other things to do this night, then feel free to back post. Otherwise, consider the night over and the new morning risen. You had taken the bodies of Kon and Reena with you last night in addition to your gear. This morning you waken in the glade.
Spellcasters, new spell lists, please.
Savin d20+11=18 d20+2=21 Monday April 17th, 2006 11:21:03 PM
Rolled 18 for Will save and 21 for Intelligence check. Get +2 on will save if it was an enchantment.
Savin moves along with the others and is sad to hear that Lady Silverhand was leaving them. Still he never felt he got to know her well. She was always so quiet. That wasn't a problem he shared.
Savin will sit in the glade and ask Peerimus, "So what is next. It is good to know we are heroes in our own rights and not just pawns but now what? The crones were always our guide. How do we find the other artifacts? I think we should use the circle and the book to find the others before the chime. The trail has seemed to have grown cold, but I have a feeling they will be coming after us again."
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday April 18th, 2006 7:37:01 AM
Sly chose to go back to the Inn, there he helps to wrap the bodies and clean up the blood. He now packs his all his stuff and readies to leave the inn. "I'll meet you people in the Glade.
In the morning you find Sly up a tree reading his book, waiting for the word to go.
Luke is sleeping with Yurrick, snoring in unisom.
Sly Spells
Lvl 0) Detect Magic - Read Magic - Flare - Ray of Frost.
Firn'gaer Tuesday April 18th, 2006 12:21:21 PM
Firn'gaer listens to all that was said and thinks of what it means. Is this the Destroyer's doing? He thinks. Someone or something moves against the Crones and us. Our new enemy is aware of our task. They are more aware than we.
He steps up to Lady Silverhand. "I'm sorry to see you go. May the fortune find you in your travels."
[In the glade] "We do need to keep the items safe. I fear we will be the hunted. Someone or something seeks to prevent us from doing what we all know must be done."
"The Crones may have placed the path before us, but it is us that continue to walk it. I'm sure they will assist again if they can, but we must look to ourselves now for what must be done." He says. "The dangers we've faced and the challenges we've overcome have been preparing us for what we do now. It is our destiny, together, we now face and together we will be victorious."
He takes out Faraday and Noxnyx. "Faraday you were about to tell me that it was the Crones Noxnyx saw, weren't you. I need you to ask Noxnyx look for Xaos for us, please. Also, can he look for the Destroyer? I wonder if he is awake. Do you think Noxnyx could see him?"
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Jaeden Tuesday April 18th, 2006 6:52:25 PM
Awakening in the glade Jaeden spends some time giving Dalek a thorough brushing. He knows it may be a while before things are this calm again and gives what comfort he can to the horse. Once it appears that the group is getting close to being ready to packs up his belongings and saddles the now mind-bonded mount.
He then takes his time with putting on his armor, making sure that the straps are snug but the fit is comfortable. He periodically glances as Firngaer and watches as the Gnome converses with Faraday.
Probing And Investigating (DM/Al) d100=31 Tuesday April 18th, 2006 10:03:27 PM
The next morning is another clear late Spring day. The morning is cool, especially in the shade of the trees that surround the glade. But as the day progresses, the air warms to a comfortable moderate temperature.
Savin hovers around Peerimus. The dangers that the night's revelations imply are considerable. And the monk appears worried.
Sly Foxx reads up in a tree while Jaeden spends time grooming Dalek. The warrior watches as Firn'gaer sits with both the Circle and the mirror-like Vision. As Jaeden watches, the Circle answers the Gnome.
"Well, no, I've never noticed that Noxy could see the Crones. I was ... I forgot what I was going to say. Must not have been very important. But, er, yeah I think we can find Xaos. We found her last night, didn't we? I don't think that would be too hard. But I'm not so sure about the Destroyer. That is to say, he doesn't really have form until Xaos calls him. That's what she does. Once we're in the Place That's Not a Place then she calls him and he takes form. But I'll ask Noxy. Couldn't hurt. He can see the Destroyer just as easily as he can see me and you ... "
As the Circle chatters away, the view on the screen of the Vision of Noxnyx jumps. One, two, three, four marks of intense moving color appear. No, once again there must be five. One of them has the intensity that indicates two signatures in a single space. When they move, they both move together. They move about, seemingly in proximity to each other. Though it's difficult to tell without knowing the scale.
"No, no, no, no, no. Well, I mean yes. A little. Look, I'm talking about linearity. No. It's not like that. A dimension is like a node of probability but it's not. Look, I know you don't understand." The Circle gives an sigh.
"You'd think after thousands of years I'd be able to explain Time and Space to him, but he still doesn't get it. I'm sorry, that's where Xaos is, but unless you can think of something, there's no way to tell how far away they are or in what direction. I can take you there, though. I don't need to know where it is to get us there just as long as Noxy can see it."
"Let me see about the Destroyer, though." There's silence for a moment. The vision dims, the colored signatures still move about on the dimmed screen. And then the screen returns to normal. "Nope. He says it's not there. Or, at least nowhere he can see."
"Anything else, Firn'gaer?" the Circle asks.
Meanwhile, Savin has the creeping feeling that someone is watching him. And, in a flash of rare and extraordinary insight, he suspects that this feeling might be a scrying.
Savin Wednesday April 19th, 2006 7:55:47 AM
Savin feels the hairs on the back of his neck rise and he glances around wondering if someone is spying on them. Seeing nobody, he will say to Peerimus, "I think someone is looking in on us. My Master used to have us scried upon when we were students to become aware of the feeling. Is their anything you can do about it?"
Savin's hands curl into fists. "I hate being spied upon. What if they are watching while we bathe. I feel so violated!"
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday April 19th, 2006 8:37:03 AM
Collecting his pack at the Inn and the dead, Peerimus leads the others to the Glade and sets a watch. The following morning he wades into the stream to prepare his spells for the day. The druid remains fully clothed during this. Not to long he sloshes out to lie back on the grass and dry.
Propping up on his elbows, "Good idea Firngaer." and he listens to the exchange. "I don't want to just yet go popping in, maybe in a few days, first..." Peerimus cuts short on Savin's revelation.
A little faster than I expected. "Well lets not just sit about all morning then. Gather up and let's get ready to move. The Crones are not just going to sit about all day for us. They said they had some items of interest for us and I think the sooner we have them the better."
Peerimus goes over and ruffles Yorrick's thick fur, "You to, silly old bear."
Jaeden Wednesday April 19th, 2006 2:01:33 PM
With Dalek brushed and his armor on Jaeden's eyes drift to the corpse of Kon. A good man there... stand up enough to be responsible and simple enough to remember how to enjoy life.
Murderous thoughts flash across his mind and he averts his gaze.
He hears Savin's comment and as discreetly as possible he goes about the camp, keeping a watch on the surrounding forest.
Sly and Luke Wednesday April 19th, 2006 2:56:44 PM
Sly climbs down from the tree, he calls to Luke "Luke! let's go for a swim. . ." Sly had just abot enough time to take his clothes off, when Luke can running and jump on Sly. Sending the bothe of them into the water, splashing and swiming intil the bothe of them Got hungery.
Sly and Luke drys them selve off, Sly ask Peerimus. "If we are going to Bring these bodies to Hook City! We better do it befor they get too smelly. Don't you think?"
Sly Spells
Lvl 0) Deteck Magic - Read Magic - Flare - Ray of Frost.
Firn'gaer d20+23=42 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 7:22:02 PM
"Is Noxnyx sure. Sly stay here." Firn'gaer says looking up and around at the group. Savin, Sly, Jaeden, Jasper, Peerimus, and me makes six...three artifacts...
"Yes, does Noxnyx know whether he had to look on a different plane to find Xaos. What is this your talking about, a Node of probability? Are you saying Xaos is in another dimension?"
Someone is scrying...on Savin...
His eyes meet Peerimus then to Savin. "Savin, move to the outside edge of the camp. If the spell on you it has a 10-ft range from you."
When Savin is sufficently far enough. "Sly, Peerimus were there any wizards in the list of past destine? I think there is another group of destine. Noxnyx saw five, yet we are at least eight. Unless they've found another way to get to the Place That's Not a Place, they'll be after Faraday next."
He turns to Father Jasper. "Protection is more of a divine domain than the arcane. If you have anything you can come up with, we'll need it.
[Spellcraft on Scry spell, DC42]
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Father Jasper d20+8=25 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 8:30:28 PM
Spellcraft on Scry spell, DC25
Will Spell Immunity work here
If so he willcast it on savin and make him immune to Scrying,
Waiting for the Watchers (DM/Al) Wednesday April 19th, 2006 9:46:39 PM
The feeling follows Savin as he makes it known that he is aware of the Scrying.
Peerimus reacts quickly, dropping small bits of misinformation, a bogus timetable and something about meeting the Crones for more items of interest.
Aside from Jaeden, who stands with a dark murderous look of vengeance, the other Children of Chaos appear without much care as well. Sly and Luke, in fact, go for a swim. Father Jasper places a preservative spell upon the bodies for the trip back to Hook City.
"Um, Noxy is never unsure, Firn'gaer," Faraday replies. "He either sees or he doesn't. But that's both good and bad. He can see things. But it's really hard for him to let you know where they are. You see, he doesn't look at the world like you or even like me. Let me see how to describe this. Every moment in every place everywhere in the cosmos an effectively infinite number of events are possible. For the sake of description, you could a point at which many different events could occur as a node, a Probability Node. You move from one Node to another and never see the others. You experience this as linear time. You see?"
"Noxy, on the other hand, sees them all. Or I think that's what he sees. Spend several millennia with someone and you still don't know everything about them, you know. To him everything happens at the same time and in the same place. You see?"
Firn'gaer, with a masterful grasp of Spellcraft discerns one limitation of the Scrying spell and orders Savin out of range. Has the command been in time, though? Has the Circle been seen?
The rattle of wagons precedes the arrival of the caravan of Silus Destin on it's return trip to Hook City. Marten walks by the side. With Silus on the bench of the lead wagon sits Niobe. In the second wagon is Lady Silverhand. Both women sit silently. Niobe in particular avoids everyone's gaze.
"We've come for the bodies." Silus hops down out of the wagon. "If you're through, that is. We'd like to help you to the greatest extent possible. But it would be best if we got an early start."
Father Jasper casts Spell Immunity upon Savin, and yet somehow the feeling of being watched persists the Immunity Spell does not seem to be effective. Then, a few minutes later, as sudden as it came, the feeling of being watched leaves Savin. A disturbing thing, the feeling had been with him for what seemed like a bit over ten minutes.
(Note, that I will not always tell you whether a spell is good for a certain application or not. It's up to you to risk it and potentially lose the spell. Risk is part of the game. Consider the spell used for the day. Spellcraft vs DC30 for the following: Highlight to display spoiler: {Certain philosophers of magic believe that Immunity to a Spell is only effective when a spell is first Targeted at a subject. Certain others say that Divination spells, as they do not affect a subject directly, are unaffected by Spell Immunity. But despite what the pundits and scholars say, it is possible that the spell failed because the Scrying had been of a Divine nature. And a Divine Scrying is of a higher level than the simple Spell Immunity is designed to handle.})
Sly and Luke Thursday April 20th, 2006 8:01:00 AM
Sly will sit oh his heels petting Luke.(Who is still damp from his swim with Sly.) He waits until he is told to move. Whenask if there was a wizard with this party, Sly thinks back "Yes! There were a few, i am one but a low level one, I use my magic for combat! I could go higher if I had my mother's book, But that's at the Elven Capitol. The Doll in the Little chest He was a wizard, and a few more that I cannot remember."
But when he sees the wagon with Silus seated on the bench and NIOBE by his side, this was too much for him. Sly will draw his basted sword and stat to advance the wagon, his gaze is on Niobe, with murder in his eyes.
Luke sits beside Sly, just panting and enjoying the day. But Sly started to draw his wapon, "Trouble" said Luke. Luke will try to stop Sly advance on the wagon. "No! No! Don't!" He Tells sly.
Savin Thursday April 20th, 2006 8:37:29 AM
Savin sees Sly's actions and will dart over to him placing both hands on his chest. He will look sternly into the young man's face and say, "You have known Niobe for a long time and she has fought by your side. You are going to condemn her on some circumstancial evidence. What is wrong with you? The authors of last nights outrage are long gone. Niobe is still here. Magicians are spying on us and Niobe is right there. Do you really think she is capable of doing those horrible deeds."
Savin turns away from Sly and will head over to Niobe's wagon and climb up beside her. He will gently turn her chin so her eyes met his. "Niobe, I don't understand what is bothering you and why you feel the need to shy away from us. I just want you to know that I will always consider you my friend and if you every need anything...all you have to do is ask." Savin will lean forward and gently kiss her on the forehead, lean back and look intently in her eyes. He will stay to hear anything she might say, but if she remains quiet he will grab her hand, give it a squeeze and climb nimbly down, respecting her privacy.
He will then help load the bodies into the wagons. When he hears Silus's offer he asks if they have any more of the beans for the journey he can spare.
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+11=20 Thursday April 20th, 2006 9:21:32 AM
Peerimus observes Savinand nods as the monk mentions the 'feeling' has moved with him and he will then nod to Firngaer. The druid simply says "We wait then" and he puts himself busy grooming Yorrick and looking over Luke until Savin reprts the feeling is gone. Upon the news, he continues going over Luke but starts speaking, "From here we go to the Abbey, I am going to talk to Mother and learn what I can about who and or what has been making a home there as of late. On the question of wizardry, Jurgen I believe was his name, an elf and rather powerful wizard and if I recall not completely right in the head. He would fit the scry and the smaller footsteps." Peerimus trails off and looks up as the sounds of wagons approach.
"Master Silus Good day to greet you." Looking to the others he nods and addresses each of them. Sly's reaction catches him slightly off guard, but thankfully Savin is ever the quick footed friend and is stopping him even as the druids mind forms the thought to do so.
"Savin is right Sly and I do not think good Marten would allow her to ride next to Silus if that were not the case."
Peerimus will first nod to Silus, "Father Jasper has done what he can to ease thier travel. Alemi cloaks them now in repose." With that he bobs his head to Father Jasper to assist him in 'loading' the Wagon Silus drives. With each body, Peerimus says a small prayer to Mother to accept back to the dust the empty bodies left behind by two fine souls. The druid moves to each rogue Silverhand first, "Pleasant journey's" and then to Niobe, "Do not forget the Token and remeber that you a good woman and I was blessed to know and travel with you."
Peerimus sees the wagons off and then turns to more business. "We now know they can spy on us, Spell immunity did not work which could mean a couple things. It won't stop a spell in progress, They were not using Scrying. We also know they only had 10 minutes which means the scryiers skills are comprable to mine in the ways of magic. Peerimus pauses to fish a rod from the well worn leather pack and grasping it in his left hand he places Greater Magic Fang on Yorrick, shares Longstrider and then gathers the entire group about and casts Pass Without a Trace. The Extend Rod is used for the day.
"I also think we should rotate who is carrying the various artifacts and no one carries more than one. Firngaer you've been seen with Nox a great deal, Let Savin carry it, I will carry Faraday and you can carry Seribild for the day. We will rotate every day. Do we have the ability to Detect the scrying Firngaer by spell? Even if we don't, be aware my friends. Knowing how often and for how long can provide information to us as well."
Assuming everyone is ready to move, Peerimus begins leading them back to the Abbey
Peerimus Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours Yorrick Greater Magic Fang, Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours
Firn'gaer d20+23=39 d20+7=23 Thursday April 20th, 2006 10:50:02 AM
"What your saying is that Noxnyx doesn't see as we would describe it, but instead sees the intersections of possible actions?" He says to the artifact. "We describe this as linear time, but to him these probability nodes...he sees them in all times at the same time? Is that right?" He says with a bit of excitement in his voice.
"Faraday, do you know if there is any other way to get to the Place that's not a Place without you? I want to know if they need you or if Xaos is all they need. Think hard."
While Faraday thinks, Firn'gaer focuses his thought again to Noxnyx. This time he tries again to look for Xaos.
**********
"Since the scrying eye was already in effect, the spell was ineffective. It should, however, work on anyother attempts if used beforehand. They've seen some of us, but..." He pauses. "He is known by Savin and he is a destined. We know this. This Jurgen, tell me more about him. I'd like to know more about this wizard we're dealing with. Are there any others."
"Sly!" Shouts the wizard. "This is not the time!"
**********
"I don't think that's a good idea. I'm not worried about Seribond, but Faraday is the next logical target. Our adversaries know Savin, so I don't want him keeping Faraday or Noxnyx. You or I should keep it." He says to Peerimus. "Our shapechanging keeps any items from being stolen. So in this case it is always over our dead bodies. Hang on to Faraday, but I'll keep Noxnyx."
"On another topic. I don't have means to Detect Scrying. I would however like to stop by the Catacombs and pick up my own Scroll of Scrying. I think it's time we find out who is tracking us."
"He should be no more than a bump in the road." He smirks. "After the Archmage, this guy might as well be an apprentice."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Father Jasper Thursday April 20th, 2006 8:00:07 PM
Jasper will help load the wagons and wait after that Holding himself aside listinign to the party speak,
Jaeden Thursday April 20th, 2006 8:45:02 PM
Jaeden too helps with the bodies and says his good byes. Unlike the others he ignores the ladies, not having bonded with either in the slightest. Instead his farewells go to Silus, Marten, and any guards that he recognizes from the first group of guards. He does of course give a final salute to Kon, the fallen soldier.
Alone Again. On Your Own Again (DM/Al) Thursday April 20th, 2006 9:43:51 PM
"Yes, that's right," the Circle replies to Firn'gaer. "Well, yeah. I think so. If I understand it right. That's the way I think he sees. From talking to him. Though sometimes it sounds like he experiences everything as ... well, a cascading wave of probability."
"Huh? Get to the Place That's Not a Place? I've always been the one to take everyone there. If there's another way, I don't know about it. Never really met anyone else there either. So if other people go there, I sure don't know about it. But Xaos can't take you there. I know that. And Xaos can't call the Destroyer anywhere except the Place That's Not a Place. hehe Imagine the mess if you could do it just .... "
Firn'gaer concentrates on the Vision of Noxnyx as the Circle of Far and Away continues to speak. The screen does not change.
While this happens, Sly Foxx turns on Niobe. There is murder in his eye. He draws his sword. In his mind, it holds all the weight of retribution. Large and heavy, something only a mighty Centaur could carry. Niobe stands, ready to fight or flee. But Luke and Savin step in. Peerimus adds words of sanity as well.
Niobe turns her face from Savin's kind words. "I let you down," Niobe says at last. "But I can't go on. I can't. I just can't. Sly, I ... " Her head is bowed, and her hands are motionless in her lap. Her misery and self torture are clear. She does not move as Savin says goodbye.
The bodies are loaded into the wagons. For the trip back, they're loaded with weapons and tools of masterwork craftsmanship. Not nearly as exotic as the cargo for the trip to Heranmar, but more in keeping with the small contingent of two men and two women who will watch over it.
"Sorry, Savin," the Caravan Master apologizes, "I sold all of the lentils while in town. They sell well. But the innkeep has a box. He might be willing to sell some to you." Thos are his last words as he climbs up into the lead wagon and waves a salute. Then the wagons rumble south down the trade road toward Hook City.
After the wagons disappear through the trees, the group heads for the Abbey. Once again, they are on their own. Their task is laid out before them.
The Abbey is different during the day. It has none of the spectral menace that it had at night. All of the flaws of age and neglect come to light in the daytime. The timbers are old and the stonework is crumbling. Within view are the walls of Heranmar. Traffic comes and goes outside the North Gate.
Around the Abbey are calf high grasses. A few bushes dot the landscape. Weeds poke their head through boards on the inside of the structure.
=== OOC ===
Do you all go to the Abbey? Or does anyone accompany Firn'gaer into town for the Catacombs? He's there already making a purchase, so he goes regardless.
Sly and Luke Friday April 21st, 2006 7:44:50 AM
Sly is stop by Savin, he look into the eyes of Savin, letting him have their say. He answers Savi "Remember I'm now a Blade-singer, I have to follow my oath! No matter how hurtful it is." Sly stand there with moving.
When Peerimus tells him that 'This was not the time!" Sly turns to the leader, "You must understand, the the Crime was not just a killing, It was a Slatter, and she's a Elf! and I will bring justice to her for her crime! BUT not now! Bigger danger awaits us. Do not worry I'll follow you Peerimus and your oders. I will let you know when I have to carry out my oath as a blade-singer. Lead on."
Sly look over his shoulder as Firn-gare yell at him, with half a smiles on his face, "I know! Frind, I know!"
Sly look to Niobe, "Remember! Some day I'll be in Hook City! You better have a very good reason to stop me from doing my duty!"
Sly and Luke watches the wagon disapear down the roar, Luke tell him "We go with Peerimus!"
Savin Friday April 21st, 2006 8:54:54 AM
Savin decides to head back with Firn'gaer. He pulls out the Bane of Seribone and hands it to Sly. "Watch this for me while I am gone. Doesn't make sense to carry it if they are scrying for me. You hold it for a while. I will bodyguard Firn'gaer and you take care of the rest."
Savin then moves over to Firn'gaer and asks, "Is it possible for you to summon a horse or something? You walk so slowly and I want to stretch my legs."
Jaeden Ohm while still at the glade Friday April 21st, 2006 12:35:30 PM
Jaeden takes in Savin and Firngaers conversation and recognizes their descision to split up. A frown creases his face but he doesn't believe speaking up will accomplish anything. He does what he can to help the situation when Savin gives him an opening.
Dalek, would you be willing to help me. I need you to take the Gnome into Town and watch over him for me. Let me know if anything happens to them.
A mental touch of agreement tells him the horse is willing.
"No need to summon anythin Firngaer. Dalek can take you. It should give Savin a good workout trying to keep up with him."
Already saddled Dalek moves to stand near the newly made Gnome.
Jaeden Ohm at the abbey d20+8=28 d20+2=9 Friday April 21st, 2006 12:39:39 PM
Approaching the Abbey Jaeden frowns for the second time already this day. A glance towards town shows him the nearness of activity. A glance at the abbey brings thoughts of Savins description of the boneyard within.
Not a good mix he figures...
While Peerimus and the others approach the building Jaeden pays close attention to whatever openings could spew forth nastiness and places himself between them and the rest of the party.
rolls and actions spot 28 (crit success) listen 9 Spot
Peerimus and Yorrick d20+21=29 Friday April 21st, 2006 12:45:12 PM
Peerimus nods to Sly I understand you oath to the elves. You must understand it as well friend. An Oath is not a thing lightly taken or asked for. Part of your duty is to protect the elves and teh innocents among them. All last night, during those terrible events it was you who were discouraging thought that Niobe could be repsoncible. 'Not her style' you said. Now in the morning light we know the killers hand was dark skinned that attacked Silus, we know others, likely former Called from the old days hunt the artifacts. We know a beast is with them. We know they possess magic skill to scry. What we have no knowledge of is Niobe's involvment in any way with the autrosities of last night."
"Sly, you must follow as you here the song of the elves and your heart, but there is nothing beyond proxcimity to link Niobe to the crime."
Niobe's last words to Savin disturb Peerimus more than he tries to let the others see. Surely there is more behind her sense of failure to us than merely leaving the quest. She knows many others have before her and some right in front of her. What is the meaning behind it and with Sly's reaction she will certainly not volunteer more. The druid stands tall and silent in his thoughts as the wagon pulls out. More symbols of life's great circle aboard than he cared to count. His bare right hand clenchs once and then be it by blessing or bliss the druids mind dismisses it and returns to the here and now of life.
Nodding to Savin, "Good idea. This moment out, take someone with you no matter where you are heading. Meet us at the Abbey when you are through Firngaer." Peerimus gives Yorrick a pat and starts down the road. He speaks with the others as they go, "I am going to take flight shortly, I want to locate a small pond or other pool for the scrying later."
Shortly after leaving the main North gate Peerimus shifts to a great eagle and takes up a position about 150' above the group. Circling and riding the eddies from field and flower he casts his sharp eyes about for a source of water suitable for his Scrying attempts. [Spot 29]
Once the Abbey is arrived a, Peerimus asks no one go inside and he moves to the stone entryway. "Thier perseptions are much different than ours and the fewer nearby the better." Kneeling down, Peerimus brings his lips to just above the stone and closes his eyes. Softly he begins speaking in an ancient and mostly forgotten language. His right hand grasps a mistletoe wrapped piece of ash and his left gently touches the stone. All sound and sense outside dims for the human. It is he and the stone, quietly he whispers to stir the earth's spririt. Invoking both Father and Mother as amster and caretaker of the rock to awaken and speak to him.
[Peerimus casts StoneTell 10 minutes casting]
to the stones "I have been here once before the last time darkness was upon you. Two others were with me then, Can you tell me of any noble race or ignoble race that crossed you that same night?" Level 0: Create Water, Mending x2, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic, Detect Magic Level 1: Endure Elements, Faerie Fire, *Longstrider, Obscuring Mist, *Pass without Trace, Produce Flame, Goodberry Level 2: Barkskin, Chill Metal, Lesser Restoration, Animal Messenger Level 3: CMW, *Greater Magic Fang, Protection from Energy, Speak with Plants x2 Level 4: Scrying x3, Dispel Magic Level 5: Animal Growth, Heighten Scrying x2 Level 6: StoneTell Spell Staff: Commune with Nature
Peerimus Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours Yorrick Greater Magic Fang, Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours
Firn'gaer Friday April 21st, 2006 5:12:44 PM
"Faraday," He says with a pause his voice getting as soft as possible, "Do you transport us through time? When you take us to a node? Are we traveling to the point in time when those possibilities would meet?"
[OOC: I assume the reason it didn't move was that Noxy was already focused on Xaos.]
He continues to look into Noxy.
"Faraday can you have Noxy look for the Shroud?" He says.
**********
"Yes, I can conjure a horse to ride." He says to Savin. "I can imagine my diminuative speed is a little frustrating to a speedster like yourself. It's a little frustrating for me as well."
Jaeden offer Dalek as an alternative. "Many thanks, but I think he might be a bit more than I can handle. A pony may be the limits of my ability to ride but I will try anyway." He steps to the magnificent warhorse. Turning to Jaeden, "Some assistance, please." Once on, Firn'gaer appears to have some familiarity with riding, but it looks ackward.
"Is anyone else coming?" He says to the others. "This may be our last time to be in civilization for a while again."
**********
Before they leave, Firn'gaer poses a thought for consideration. "It might be safer to look for the Shroud first before going after Xaos. If it is a good distance from here, it will place our opponents a distance too far to be a threat at this point. Once we have the Shroud, we can then go on the offensive to gain Xaos, but on our terms." He says to the others. "Think about it."
Before leaving, Firn'gaer hands off Faraday to Peerimus and places Noxy into his pack. "Be careful of watching eyes."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Father Jasper Friday April 21st, 2006 6:46:09 PM
Jasper waits by the abby, not needing to buy anything and staying to help setup a night camp Jasper spend the rest of the evenng talking to Jaeden and Sly hoping to strike some cheerful conversation to raise the spirits of his comrads
Jasper says a pray before bed Spells 0th Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic 1st Magic Weapon, Magic Stone, Endure Elements, Bless, Divine Favor -- Domain Cure Light Wounds 2nd Aid,Gentle Repose X 2 (cast), Hold Person, Bull's Strength, , -- Domain Cure Moderate Wounds 3 Dispel Magic, Summon Monster III, Daylight, Wind Wall -- Domain Cure Serious Wounds 4th Neutralize Poison, Divine Power, Summon Monster IV -- Domain Cure Critical Wounds 5th Flame Strike X 2, -- Domain Cure Light Wounds, Mass
Sly and Luke Saturday April 22nd, 2006 8:28:24 AM
"No Fern-gare! I'll stay here with Farther Jasper and Jaeden, Peerimus is flying off to take a last look see before going into the Abby. Don't worry I'll be good" Smiles Sly.
Luke Bark twice, "Bark! Hurry back Bark!"
Sly then want to explain his actions, as of late "Jason remember when you were holding Niobe, trying to stop her from killing herself? I can along to sent her to Ruby my sister, Well she took her to the Witches and saves her life! Well you see elves don't kill them selves, We die in battle or let out guard down and let the enermy kill us. That's where I first suspected that Niobe was being possest, and I just comferm it when I treaten her with excution. She wanted me to killer and put her out of her situtation. I would never kill Niobe, I know that rouge too well. I will do my best to release her from her pain, Never kill her.
I know i'm still young and hard headed, Being fourty of woldian years. I must learn to trust all of you and not to go at it alone!."
Sly turn and Takes out the Smuff box, opens it, takes ut the little key and inserts the key onto the lock, 'Poof!' There at Sly feet is the Beautiful Ivory and Gold Chest. Sly put's the Scribon (necklace of holding) next to the doll Of Ilsidure. Sly closes the chest, and after it is reduce to a small Snuff box again, He'll put it away again.
Death Comes to the Innocent (DM/Al) d20+26=33 d20+13=21 d20+6=14 d20+5=10 d20+22=39 Sunday April 23rd, 2006 11:23:10 AM
Sly Foxx explains as the group misinterprets the actions prompted by this Bladesinger creed. Who can tell how far the damage goes when one has been shattered as greatly as Niobe appears to have been. The road over which Fate's wagon rolls is paved with tragedy, and only heroes walk the mile.
Before leaving, Firn'gaer has a few more questions for the Circle of Far and Away. The Circle is silent for a moment.
"Well, if you consider that when I take you somewhere, the time you would have taken to get somewhere if you had, say, walked doesn't happen then I suppose that would mean we're traveling through time. Or at least across time. But that's true of any form of Teleportation, isn't it?" If Faraday had hands, he would most likely be scratching his head. "If you mean can I take you into a point forward or backward in your linear timeframe, then I think the answer is no."
"Atman. Right. I'll have Noxy look again." Another short wait. "Nope. Still can't find her. Strange. Noxy says that he can feel her, but he can't see her. I'm not sure what that means. I don't think that's ever happened before. Must be something new. But a lot of things are new this time. But, then again, there are new things every time. But I mean they just seem newer than usual." Fortunately for everyone within earshot, Firn'gaer hands the Circle to Peerimus before it can go on.
Savin and Dalek accompany Firn'gaer into town. The monk moves at a pace that even Jaeden's warhorse has difficulty keeping up with.
At the Abbey, Jaeden and Sly stand guard. Sly takes the Amulet of Seribond into safe keeping, storing it with the doll-like figure of Ilsidur in the magic snuffbox. Father Jasper eyes the Abbey as a place to set up camp. And Jones stands silent as Peerimus sinks deeper and deeper into the earth-mind seeking a place in which he might speak with the stone arch of the building.
"The three were here." The stones speak in a voice cultured by their shaping by human masons. "The ones we had seen here longer than you. The biggest one who ate the flesh of living meat. The vile one, who clothed himself in melted bones of the earth. And the slight one who tread lightly upon the ground." (You have 11 minutes on the spell, Peerimus. If you have further questions, you may ask them in a backpost.)
After speaking with the stones, Peerimus turns into an eagle and leaves his companions on the ground. The land around Heranmar is more suited to running water than to standing pools. But the ocean catches Peerimus' eye and he remembers that there would be plenty of suitable pools of water on the beach in a few hours when the tide recedes.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
In town, Firn'gaer and Savin enter the little shop that Silus Destin had pointed out to the group. Dalek waits patiently outside. Several customers move between tables of items. A plump woman with rosy cheeks chats with the proprietor of the shop. A woman in a headscarf tows a dark haired girl child behind her, holding her hand as she examines bolts of cloth. An old man in a wide-brim hat sorts through a barrel of apples. (Savin Spot 21, Firn'gaer Spot 14, Dalek Spot 10)
Firn'gaer and Savin enter the portal to the Catacombs and conduct their business, and when they emerge the scene has changed little at all. The two women still shop, but the old man has gone his way.
As soon as they step out the front door, however, Firn'gaer hears a voice from somewhere to the left, and his craft of spells tells him that it is a high level incantation. A cloud of sickly yellow green forms in the road, enveloping four townspeople. With strangled cries, each crumples to the ground. The cloud drifts to the northeast. In it's path, ten feet away, two townsfolk stand gaping, unable to move. Three more stand 20 feet away, equally frozen with fear.
A high silvery female laugh comes from the left.
"They die so easily," taunts the voice. "But we know you're made of stronger stuff."
=== OOC ===
Savin, Firn'gaer, Dalek as controlled by Jaeden, and Peerimus (Who can't help but see the cloud from above.)
The shop with the portal to the Catacombs is the north most one in the group of three to the left of the Southgate on the Map of Heranmar. Savin, Firn'gaer and Dalek are out front. Peerimus is 150 feet above the Abbey. The cloud is in the road just north of Savin, Firn'gaer and Dalek and it's traveling northeast.
Savin, Firn'gaer and Dalek only: The voice came from somewhere to the left, down the row of buildings. If you go after the voice, I'll need Spot and Listen Checks, please.
Firn'gaer d20+8=25 d20+6=22 Sunday April 23rd, 2006 8:04:23 PM
Firn'gaer sees the cloudkill spell moving northeast.
[Listen DC25, Spot DC22]
"Micel Lucan Hege" He cries after moving towards the fog. An barrier invisible to all save Firn'gaer and other capable of seeing what cannot be seen springs up between the cloud and its path.
Spell: Wall of Force, range 75-ft; He will make it 20-ft high and 50-ft wide centered on the first group closest to the cloud. He will place it 5-ft from the people.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours Wall of Force - 11 rounds
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Savin d20+13=31 d20+13=33 d20+15=26 d20+11=21 d20+13=24 Monday April 24th, 2006 9:52:08 AM
Al, Made my spot check before I went into the catacombs of 31.
Savin will pursue the voice trying to avoid smashing into the new wall of force springing into existance. He dashes around the corner and takes a look for the diabolical voice and evil person who could just so easily kill people.
He spots it (natural 20) and if he can will summon his spiked chain from his glove of storing and swing it at the legs of the voice hitting a touch ac of 26. Savin will then try and trip the person? strength check 21. If he fails in his strength attempt, he will drip the spiked chain.
first spot check 31 second spot check 33 listen check 24
[ Note that Savin Spots nothing unusual before he goes into the store that contains the portal to the Catacombs. --Al ]
Jaeden Ohm Monday April 24th, 2006 1:16:37 PM
Confirming his earlier fears Jaeden is distracted by the distress Dalek imparts to him. He urges to horse to be calm and observe and quickly makes an assessment of the situation.
A glance upwards shows Peerimus aloft and likely able to see whats going on.
"Sly, Jasper, quick back to town. The others are in trouble!"
Without another word the warrior moves out towards the north gate with as much speed as possible.
notes going to need some indication of arrival time
Dalek Monday April 24th, 2006 1:21:16 PM
Dalek keeps an eye on the goings on, intending to avoid harm but to be available in case a hasty retreat is needed. He moves as necessary to avoid the cloud and trys to work his way closer to the south gate.
notes intentions: dalek is trying to keep watch on the south gate and the happenings of the confrontation. If these goals come into conflict he will keep tabs on the confrontation. he will not risk himself unless it is absolutely critical to save someone.
Jones Monday April 24th, 2006 4:13:39 PM
Hearing Jaeden's command to get back to town, Jones leaps to his feet and rushes after him. Movement seems to give back his voice, "Finally some action. I don't know much about all this chaos hocus pocus mumbo jumbo, but I know how to run from place to place!"
Father Jasper Monday April 24th, 2006 6:09:14 PM
Jasper also startes back to town with all due speed after Jaeden anounces that there friends are in trouble
Peerimus and Yorrick Monday April 24th, 2006 8:31:01 PM
The druid bows back to the stones, (OoC Though they are typed in repetition, Peerimus waits for each answer before moving to the next question) "My thanks my ancient friend. I must ask for as much as you can tell me about them. I know race is hard to interpret for me, but I would ask if you know male from female and elf from human? Were his feet hooved and did his head have horns? Of the one who was clothed in the earth, Was a bird with him or did he carry a large wooden staff. Did you hear any of them speak while they were here? Peerimus takes in the sea and knows to tidal pools he would find there and they would have to do. The eagle dips his left wing and soars towards the abbey but then notices Jaeden and Father Jasper practically running towards town. Something is wrong and haste is needed Peerimus' mind flashes to Firngaer and Savin in town. Both are capable of extraordinary escape and speed, but. The eagle shrieks as he cuts low over the two men as it easily overtakes them and lands about 120' in front of them. The Druid shifts into a horse and sits back to make the climb aboard easier.
Yorrick senses the uneasines in the others around him in whom much faith has been placed by his chosen friend. The bear rises and moves with the men a bellow rings out towards Peerimus, whom he knows is the eagle.
Father Jasper Monday April 24th, 2006 9:15:26 PM
As soon as able Jasper will take the offered ride
Back For More Fun (DM/Al) d20=2 d20=5 d20+14=21 d20+14=18 d20+22=40 d100=72 Monday April 24th, 2006 9:30:16 PM
OoC: Back post
"The Mother and Father are Male and Female," the stones of the arch reply. "So too, one of the three was Female. Two were Male. The female was one of many who live below the ground. There were no hooves, nor horns, nor birds. The large one sometimes carried a staff. The one clothed in melted earth was as the ones of the town, but with a darkness about him, deeper than the night."
"They spoke amongst themselves often. But unlike you, Favored Son, their voices were but the buzzing of the wind to us."
The stones go silent, and Peerimus takes to the skies.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Firn'gaer identifies the Cloudkill spell from personal experience. How could he forget the spell that nearly killed Rufus and himself in the hall of the Mad Gnomish Archmage? He quickly throws an invisible Wall of Force up between the frozen townsfolk and the approaching killer mist. As expected, the cloud continues its drift to the northeast. As it encounters the wall it begins to spread outward, flattening against the wall, elongating, and slipping around the sides of the wall, closing in.
The terrified townsfolk watch as the swirling cloud towers 20 feet over them, like a giant wave that threatens to crash down upon them at any moment. They stand, frozen from shock and fear.
Dalek stands with Firn'gaer watching the south gate. People scramble in panic. It's difficult to tell friend from foe. Dalek's master, Jaeden, runs for the north gate with Jones, Father Jasper, Sly Foxx, Luke and Yorrick close behind. The nearest entrance to the walled town is the north gate. They are only a few short minutes away. But a lot can happen in a few short minutes. Peerimus screams out of the sky and becomes horse, waiting for someone to mount.
Savin runs south along the fronts of the building in the direction opposite that of the killer yellow-green cloud. He rounds the corner of the last building. Through the most improbable of fortunes, his eye catches a shadow in the lea of the building. The shape of a wide brim hat, the outline of the body, it's the old man from inside the shop. But the voice, it wasn't an old man's voice. No matter, with a snap of his fingers, a spiked chain comes into Savin's hands. He aims low and feels the chain sweep against legs.
The figure does not even attempt to resist the trip. It goes down, and Savin's chain strikes again (You have Improved Trip. It allows a second strike on a success.) The chain slams glances from armor, taking a gouge out of the ground. (Hit AC21, Miss even after -4 for being prone.) His attack of opportunity also fails to penetrate protective armor as the figure stands from prone and tumbles effortlessly 20 feet away and out of range. (Hit AC18, Miss)
"I can see why he doesn't like you." The voice is decidedly female. And with his divinely inspired but temporary acuity of eyesight, Savin can see the traces of make up with which she had passed herself off as an old man.
"Oh Savin. Oh. Yes. That's good. I love that." The voice she mimics is Reena's, then she laughs. "Oh the things you hear in the middle of the night. Was she as good for you as she was for me?"
"This has been fun." Her voice purrs. "I'll have to come back tomorrow. If I bring friends, maybe we can kill even more people." She laughs again, and in her evil mirth she says, "And I don't think there's anything you can do to stop us."
She flicks her wrist and a scroll unfurls. She reads quickly, and the last thing that Savin sees before she winks out is a pink eye that peers out from under the wide-brimmed hat.
The killer mist closes in on the townsfolk on the other side of Firn'gaer's Wall of Force. In five or ten seconds it will envelope the nearest group. Moreover still, like an equally deadly cloud, these new foes threaten not only the lives of the Children of Chaos, but all the innocents around them as well.
=== OOC ===
The shop with the portal to the Catacombs is the north most one in the group of three to the left of the Southgate on the Map of Heranmar. Savin, Firn'gaer and Dalek are out front. Peerimus is 150 feet above the Abbey. The cloud is in the road just north of Savin, Firn'gaer and Dalek and it's traveling northeast.
Savin d20+15=25 d100=86 d20+9=22 d20+18=35 d100=76 d20+9=18 d20+13=25 Tuesday April 25th, 2006 12:51:07 AM
Savin yells, "Firn'gaer, get over here! Invisible opponent!"
Savin then dances forward to within 5' of where he believes the hateful woman with his spiked chain whirling. He sends it forward in a circular motin trying to ensare her once again. Since he saw her tumble away and then cast a spell, he thinks he knows where she is. The chain wraps around something and he gives it a yank pulling the pesky female's feet out from under her.
(ooc He hit a touch ac of 25, making his 50% miss chance with an 86. Strength roll of 22 to pull her feet out. Taking 10 I believe it is doubtful that she can resist)
After pulling her feet out, Savin decides to try and hold onto this vixen. He follows his chain down and initiates a grapple. (ooc Hit ac 35 with a 76 chance to miss invisible creature. Grapple roll is 18.) He tries to grab onto some arms to foul any attempts at pulling weapons or cast spells.
spot check 25
Sly and Luke d20+4=18 d20+3=17 Tuesday April 25th, 2006 8:27:53 AM
Sly runs after the others, "Hey! Wait for me! I have this pebble on my boots." Sly gets the rock out, then runs after his friend.
Whe Peerimus come racing by, Sly will try to jump on his back and ride after his friends.
Luke runs after Sly.
OOc: jump 18 - Ride 17. (I think I made it not sure?)
Sly's Spells
0 - Dtect Magic - Read Magic - Flare - Ray of Frost.
Firn'gaer d20+10=24 Tuesday April 25th, 2006 12:02:51 PM
"No, save the people!" He shouts while pointing towards the townsfolk frozen with fright.
No time...what to do...
Firn'gaer focuses his thoughts and decides he'll have to risk failure. With an arcane gesture and speaking, "Aetstandan" Firn'gaer attempts to undo the spell.
[Dispel Magic - DC24, 13th level caster]
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours Wall of Force - 10 rounds
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Dalek Tuesday April 25th, 2006 1:07:23 PM
Dalek keeps his vigil and transmits information as best he can to Jaeden. Noxious stink... people reek of fear... the one you know as Savin looks to be fighting, nothing... small man focused on the stink... Humans in danger...
Jaeden Tuesday April 25th, 2006 1:09:18 PM
Reaching the Peerimus horse Jaeden pauses for just an instant and places his had on the horses neck. "Take Father Jasper." With only those words he continues off as fast as possible.
Jones Tuesday April 25th, 2006 5:01:51 PM
Jones chases after Jaeden faster than it looks like his short legs should carry him.
Sly Tuesday April 25th, 2006 5:34:37 PM
Sly To Jaeden, "Hey! Pal! what do you think? With Me sitting here? Chicken Liver??
What do you want me to do? Peerimus." ask Sly.
OOC: Jason read my post?
DM/Al - Addendum Tuesday April 25th, 2006 5:57:43 PM
I've been asked to provide a better idea of where things are in relation to each other.
Father Jasper Tuesday April 25th, 2006 6:33:41 PM
As soon as able Jasper will take the offered ride if able Jasper will also ready a spell for casting (flame strike)
Jaeden Ohm Follow Up Post Tuesday April 25th, 2006 7:24:13 PM
It is unclear if Jaeden hears Sly's question or not. What is clear is that the man doesn't stop running to answer.
OOC Sorry Ceil, didn't mean to diminish Sly or his steal his intention. Jaeden has a vague idea of whats going on through Dalek. He gets the sense that a healer might be necessary right away because of the danger the townsfolk are in. If Sly is pissed at the perceived slight RP it up :D
They Know Where You Live (DM/Al) Tuesday April 25th, 2006 9:16:18 PM
Around the corner at the end of the row of buildings, Savin attacks the last known location of the mysterious woman. His Chain sweeps through the air in which she stood. He leaps in, following with a grapple. But he finds himself grasping at empty air. There is nothing there for his hands to seize. (BTW, you may never Take 10 when unwanted consequences may result. You must always roll and risk critical failure. In the Wold, in fact, the New Attack rules place a Critical and Automatic failure at either a 1, a 2 or a 3.)
Sly Foxx makes a running leap and lands behind Father Jasper on Peerimus' back. With the extra load, Peerimus the Horse is moderately encumbered. But it's still much faster than going on foot. Jaeden, in his heavy plate armor, runs on without noticing the extra rider upon Peerimus. Jones, skates along, quite quickly for such a small fellow.
Back at the shop, Firn'gaer weaves his hands in a spell, a spell to send away the Cloud. The sickly yellow vapor closes in from both sides, roiling down upon the pale and cringing townsfolk.
Then it disappears.
The center of Heranmar is clear. Sobs and grateful exclamations float on the air from the five townsfolk huddled in the middle of the road. They've been saved from certain death. This time. Aside from that, the town is filled with silence. Everyone else has fled. Nothing stirs.
There is a clatter of hooves. Father Jasper rides a horse at a breakneck pace with Sly Foxx behind. The priest is ready to bring holy fire down upon their foes, but there are none to be seen. Yorrick and Luke arrive close behind. Then Jones, and finally Jaeden.
In the street before the late-coming Children of Chaos, two men comfort three women, while beyond them four more people lie still and unmoving upon the cold earth.
It would appear that their enemies know things about them. Worse yet, they can strike at the group at the times of their choosing. At them, or at anyone around them.
Father Jasper Tuesday April 25th, 2006 10:50:35 PM
Jasper drops down to the ground off Peerimus with fury in his eyes, uncomon for a passifist priest, " Bastards Face us come out and fight Cowards, attacking the defenceless townsmen, come out and face me and feel the wraith of Alemi" No more of these games if you want a fight come on and dance, and my mace shale crush your face you want a fight we will give you a fight if that is what you want " Turning to Firn'gaer I think we has no choice but to use Faraday to go to get them or they will keep this attacking from shadows til we all fall, Peerimus I want your opinion but I feel that we need to take the attack to them, and the only way i know to do that is Faraday, this has been my feeling for some time now but I was hopeing there might have been another way but there is not and the time for action is now we have to do this soon or die" the normaly calm priest face red with anger still and he looks like he could kill anyone with a glare. ( the old saying if looks could kill)
Sly and Luke Wednesday April 26th, 2006 6:47:34 AM
As Sly slides of Peerimus, he yells at Jaeden, "Sorry! I didn't see you getting on peerimus! I almost hit you with my foot! You must watch those elven flying feet!"
Sly pats Peerimus neck (in horse shape) whispers to him "You know he has the sliperest armor around, I almost fell off, but i found a good grip just in time!"
Sly listens to the mad Frier! "Wow! Look at our Priest go! I bet he would have made very good fighter!"
Luke come so Sly, then look back towards Fr. Jasper, tells Sly "Ha! And you call me Barbarian?"
Savin d20+13=31 Wednesday April 26th, 2006 8:28:22 AM
Savin curses to himself when his chain doesn't make a connection. He will stop and listen closely for a few seconds hoping he just missed the assassin, rather than she teleported away or something.
If he hears nothing, he will summon his chain back into his glove of storing and head back to the others. When he gets there, he reports, "I am not sure if she was an assassin or a mage. She had pink eyes and used makeup to disguise herself. She did use a scroll to escape but I believe some thieves can do that.
She mentioned another and that they were going to come back to kill more people tomorrow. It definitely sounds like a trap. They want us to chase them onto a battlefield of their choosing. Still I don't know if we have much choice. We can't just let them kill others in attempts to lure us.
If we decide to get some of the other items, we need to leave soon. I doubt they would attack innocents if we weren't here to feel guilty about it."
Savin pauses and then says, "Oh she did mention that, and I quote, 'I can see why he doesn't like you.' I was able to get my chain on her for a moment surpising her I think. Can anyone think of someone in our past that doesn't like me? Seems impossible I know. This mixture of good looks and charm is hard to beat!"
Peerimus and Yorrick Wednesday April 26th, 2006 8:35:43 AM
Peerimus snorts at the sight in the town, it is not different than what he expected to find. No one he knew dead and several that he did not. Yorrick moves in and the druid shifts back to normal. His face unhappy at best. "The stones eliminated anyone I thought it could be who bore a mark, so they would have been signed before my time." listening to the priest shout intot he empty streets and looking back at the bodies, "Unfortunately they seem to know all there is to know about us and can strike whenever they like, where ever they like and with Noxy unable to see the shroud I can think of one thing and that is we leave. They want us, they have to follow and we are putting in some distance. Staying only brings more combat to the area. Get your things, first we are headed to the glade."
Not in much mood to talk Peerimus turns and starts back for the small glen. More quietly to himself as he moves "Faraday, can you take us back to our first meeting place?"
Firn'gaer Wednesday April 26th, 2006 9:31:32 AM
Relieved at his success, Firn'gaer breathes a sigh of relief. He scans the area for signs of invisible opponents.
"Father Jasper, I think you may be right. For the sake of the innocent, we'll have to take the fight to them. Sooner over later." He says. "I don't see an alternative. They may attack the town again should we leave. I think we don't have much choice, even if it is a trap." He looks around at the others. "Does anyone have any ideas."
"If we go, I say we go as soon as possible, today even."
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours Wall of Force - 9 rounds
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Jones Wednesday April 26th, 2006 2:55:26 PM
On his arrival, Jones surveys the scene. Not seeing anything, he asks, "Uh, why were we in such a panic to get here?"
Father Jasper Wednesday April 26th, 2006 4:29:03 PM
Jasper points to the dead almost yelling still enraged and just a bit put out "thats why" " any other stupid questions" calming down a bit sorry jones the slauter of innecent people is a cowardy act that realt pisses me off. Jasper will walk over to the afor mentioned dead and say a blessing of Alemi on the " Alemi bless you and keep you; TAlemi make His face shine upon you,And be gracious to you;Alemi lift up His countenance upon you,And give you peace. Jasper will follow the party to the glade after the blessing
Jaeden Ohm Wednesday April 26th, 2006 5:51:18 PM
Knowing his arrival is too late, and knowing his skills not well suited to dealing with the aftermath, Jaeden reunites with his mind bound steed. He sends a tendril of mental assurance but discovers his care is not needed. Dalek is fine and unbothered by events. The distress he had sent was more of warning then true distress.
The fighter scratches Daleks neck and listens as the others speak of their plans. Yet again he frowns. This time he doesn't stay quiet. He motions the 'Children' to gather close and speak softly enough that only they can hear.
"Friends, we need to stay calm and think. Why would this foe do this? What could they possibly gain by randomly striking out at townsfolk? The only think I can think of is that they seek to push us into a foolish descision. They know of the artifacts so it stands to reason that they may know of their function. Think for a moment about what traps you could put in place if you knew you could force an opponent into a location of your choosing. Whatever you think you could plan would likely pale in comparison to what a devious mind could come up with."
"I do agree with Peerimus that we should put distance between us and the townfolk, but I don't think we should port right away. It's too obvious.
"Also, I think we need to return to the abbey before we leave. This attack happened just as we were about to enter the abbey. Perhaps we were being led away..."
Death and Decisions (DM/Al) Wednesday April 26th, 2006 8:54:46 PM
Savin makes a final search of the area in the aftermath of the attack. He neither hears nor sees sign of the mysterious woman in disguise. Either she is no longer here, or her ability to conceal herself is beyond his means to detect.
He rejoins the others to find expressions of anger and outrage along side calls for calm and careful thought. What are the choices? To walk into a situation that could very likely be a trap? To go somewhere entirely different and draw the attention of the killers away from the town?
The high cruel laughter of the mysterious woman echoes in the minds of both Firn'gaer and Savin. Her delight in death was readily apparent. Might the Children of Chaos return to find the town a single mass grave? Would the Crones, protectors of the Gateway Downs be able to stop these vicious killers? They had come over the hill the night before prepared for battle, not knowing what they would face until they saw it. Would they come to protect the town?
"Thank you. Thank you for saving us." The words come from one of the five survivors. A man, he and his wife cling to each other as though they would fall without each other's support. One of the others, another man, you recognize him from the bar the first night in town. He looks away in shame. He was one of the dock workers who had sided with the disagreeable Crispin.
It is difficult for Jones to miss the four unmoving figures lying in the road when Father Jasper shouts out and points to them. As the Father prays over the bodies, a wailing cry draws attention to a woman in apron and skirt standing in the open doorway of a nearby building. Heedless of her own safety, she rushes toward the group and falls to her knees before one of the bodies. My son. My boy. Pepitto. She wails and sobs, cradling the young man's head in her arms.
Savin Wednesday April 26th, 2006 10:21:10 PM
Savin looks on in shame as the woman wails over her lost son. He intellectually knows it wasn't their fault but still feels somehow guilty.
He starts following Peerimus back towards the glade and says,"I think Jaeden is right. As much as I want to smash these foul people, we could be doing the Wold a bigger disservice if we fail. I vote we go and retrieve the other artifacts. They might have some powers that could aid us in the confrontation with our counterparts.
Who has the talking circle these days? Maybe it can tell us of the powers of the other artifacts and we could see if we should persue them. Either way, I think just blindly trying to attack them is a mistake. Lets double our guard, both with magic and vigilence and be ready for an attack but not play to their tune. We can always track them. Lets find a battlefield of our own."
Sly and Luke Thursday April 27th, 2006 9:17:35 AM
"Your right! I agree, we should pick our battles. But still I would like to see what's in the pit??" Wonders Sly.
Luke looks to Sly, "Oh! Oh! Sly is thinking, trouble for me!"
Jones Thursday April 27th, 2006 12:26:33 PM
Jones blushes, "Err... um... must have been out of breath."
Jaeden Thursday April 27th, 2006 1:49:41 PM
As the group returns to the Glade and Savin voices his agreement Jaeden looks at the monk in surprise. He was sure Savin would be the last to agree to not blindly porting in.
"I still think the first thing we do should be to go back to the abbey. The timing of that attack was a bit too timely for my liking."
notes Jaeden is on horseback
Firn'gaer Thursday April 27th, 2006 3:11:06 PM
"It's not needed. I only wish we could have save everyone." He says to townsfolk.
"We only have two left, Xaos and the Shroud. We can't go after the Shroud. I've already looked. Noxnyx can't see it. It's being shielded from view. So that leaves us with Xaos. It's the only one we can find and it is unfortunately the most dangerous one to go after."
**********
There is talk against going on the offensive. "None of you understand the position we're in. We have no choice but to go on the offensive. Yes, I'd like to have another choice, but there isn't one. Look around, if we leave the townfolk will most certainly pay for our actions. While I understand our task has greater consequences than the deaths of a few individuals, I will not allow it to happen. All of you should feel the same. We are in a tough spot, but we could be at Xaos in an hour and we stand a better chance than the folk of this village do against that woman and her master."
**********
The group continues to head back to the Abbey. Firn'gaer pulls out Noxnyx. "Here take him." He says handing Noxnyx to Savin. "I'm staying. They'll be back soon. Maybe today, maybe tomorrow either way I'll make a stand here and deal with them when they return. Alone if I must. This time when they try to get our attention, I'll have a surprise of my own." He turns back towards the village.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Peerimus and Yorrick Thursday April 27th, 2006 5:34:37 PM
Like a nest of bees in his mind behind him the bickering over the best course of action begins. Would the town be mercilously attacked if they leave? How long would they wait to strike if they did? Some of the best traps and ambushes are those that strike when the prey was weary. That last thought soured his stomach. Peerimus halts his walk toward the gate at Firngaers proclomation and looks to the others.
"I have Faraday Savin. They may be connected but I do not think so. Likely the catacombs was staked out and they waited for a small group of us to be about."
Again they held precisely none of the cards and standing in times square awake and alert every hour of the day while the enemy rested and prepared was the stupidist thing he had ever heard.
"Firngaer? where on the offensive would you like to go? The abbey Jaeden may be correct there may be a tie. Savin talked of bones and refuse of recent use. Implies a lairing. Perhaps we simply use Faraday to teleport into the blind unknown and see if our complete lack of battle plans and sheer Waard faith holds?"
Peerimus shakes his head slightly, "If we strike now we do so unprepared, woefully so. We have no idea of where we will appear, Faraday has proven he can not exactly pop in right next ot the object. We arrived a good distance from the caravan. If they are in a building or basement several hundred feet may as well be the wold."
"And it is not a woman and her master, it is three Chaos marked champions set upon the path to revive the avatar. The stones did say one was like of these towns folk and likely a resident then. What I do not want to do is have a tactical discussion that I am not very good at anyway in the middle of the blessed street for all to here. Might at well send them a paige and tell them we'll be there in two hours on a field of thier choosing and don't worry our spell com;iments will be partially exhausted and ill chosen for a deadly encounter." Peerimus cuts himself off finding his voice raising and drifting into a rant. he shakes his head again.
"Close to me my friend." he says to Yorrick. "For lack of anything elses ressembling a sane thought I say we move on the abbey ruins. It is a location, it is close and has been used recently. Firngaer, in a town of more than a thousand souls against a teleporter there is nothing you can do except witness the deaths of those who are trying to protect. Come with us to the Abbey."
Peerimus Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours Yorrick Greater Magic Fang 22hours
Sly and Luke (Part 2) Thursday April 27th, 2006 6:20:35 PM
Sly look toward Fern-gare, "Friend Fern-gare, Peerimus is right, they are trying to seperate us. That way the'll get every thing they want, with out too much effort. Don't let them doo that, come with us."
Luke sits next to his master, watching firn-gare, hope to see him turn.
The War Between Peace and Death (DM/Al) Thursday April 27th, 2006 9:22:30 PM
And the struggle continues on. On the one hand is the potential death of innocents. On the other is the prospect of unknown ambush.
The Children of Chaos toss the dilemma back and forth between each other. They grapple with it within their own minds, first on the way back to the glade, and then, as they detour toward the Abbey. Firn'gaer is most certainly right. There is only one more Artifact who's location they know, the Chime of Xaos. The whereabouts of the Shroud of Atman are as of yet unknown. And, in a way, there seems very little choice. Their foes have shown themselves to be full of cruelty and evil. And there are so many ways through the town.
But to follow blindly is a dangerous course. Dangerous in the extreme.
Firn'gaer hand the Vision of Noxnyx to Savin, then head back to the village.
The rest of the group continues on to the Abbey. It is as they left it not minutes ago. An examination of the ground reveals again the tracks of at least three separate creatures. In the basement, the blonde wig and the remnants of the disguise kit remain in the corner. Against one wall is a shallow hole filled with excrement, a makeshift toilet. The feces appear to be a mix of medium and large size humanoids. The pit in the middle of the floor differs from the hole for the toilet in that its sides are smooth, as though with age. It was dug a longer while ago and only recently, has been used as a dump for rotting bones. Sifting through the bones reveals several skulls, deer, cattle, sheep, and five that are most definitely humanoid. Many of the longer bones have been twisted and splintered as though by a great force. There are sharp teeth marks on many of the bones as well.
A best estimate of the length of time for this occupation would be anywhere from two to four weeks.
=== OOC ===
That's the info that I think you can quite readily discover by combing the Abbey with your collective skills. If there is something else you'd like to try, or something else that you think I've missed, feel free to attempt it.
BTW, anyone going with Firn'gaer?
Sly and Luke Friday April 28th, 2006 6:52:34 AM
Sly watches as Fern-gare hands noxie to Savin, then he turns heading toward the town. Sly heart is heavy, Sly know that this party need a good wizard. he also knows that his magic is not strong enough for the enemy their about to face.
A Sly watches Fern-gar walk away, he whispers a good-by and all the luck of Domi can give him.
Sly will follow Peerimus, and any orders he will give him. Sly bend over and ask if Luke would keep Fern-gare Safe!
Luke Sits next to Sly. Wondering what is going on, when ask He follows Fern-gare (by his side}, to town.
Firn'gaer Friday April 28th, 2006 8:10:12 AM Outside the village "Bones and refuse? So the abbey is a home for animals. I'm sorry, but my mind is set. If there something at the Abbey that gives more than hunches, send Dalek to retrieve Luke and I. Until then I'm staying and protecting the town."
He reaches over and scratches Luke behind the ear before continueing back inside the wall.
In town Firn'gaer heads back to the shop. Inside he speaks to someone who works there. His topic is the man in the pointy hat from earlier that day.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Peerimus and Yorrick Friday April 28th, 2006 8:31:33 AM
Peerimus arches a brow towards the wizards, yes animals that utilize disguise kits and the toliet. Firngaer starts away and the druid just moves to the arch of the abbey, "and so he goes to watch them die." he says quietly. "and now our chances to get the Chimes have dropped."
Peerimus takes a seat, "Savin get out Nox and lets see if we can find Xaos."
Peerimus Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours Yorrick Greater Magic Fang 22hours
Jaeden: At Firn's Departure Friday April 28th, 2006 1:09:41 PM
"Alright Firngaer, if you see Dalek assume that means we need you here right away."
The warrior isn't happy with the party once again splitting up but he doubts he can stop it. It can no longer be said the he again frowns... this day he seems to be holding that face constantly.
Jaeden at the Abbey Friday April 28th, 2006 1:12:11 PM
"Sly, can you tell if there is any magic here? Jasper, can you do the same for the taint of evil?"
"As much as I really don't like the idea... we may not have any choice but to use Faraday. Certainly we need to prepare to the utmost possible... but I see little other choice."
Savin Friday April 28th, 2006 4:13:28 PM
Savin takes the artifact Nox from Firn'gaer and frowns. He glances over at Peerimus waiting for him to say something as the leader. When the druid is silent, Savin blows his cork.
Firn'gaer your an idiot. You just a stupid idiot! Where do you think your going? I have concerns that we can take on this counter group at all and now you want to split us up? What are you going to do if they show up? Do you think you can battle them alone?"
Savin takes a deep breath and counts to 10 and continues on in a normal voice. "Stay with us. If you think we should go and try to beard the beast in his lair, then I will stand beside you. If we fail, then Chaos gets its chance and the Wold ends as we know it but at least we will have died trying.
Splitting us up will only ensure all of our failures. Stay with us, work this artifact (Savin holds it back towards him) It is beyond my comprehension and we will see if we can survive together."
Sly and Luke Saturday April 29th, 2006 8:45:32 AM
Sly watchs Fern-gare enter the gates, He turn to reply Jaeden, "Yes I can detect magic, I can read magic, But right now I cannot Dispel magic, that's a third level spell! I have to study that spell over night. Do we have enough time for that?" ask Sly, not to be mean but but just wondering.
He speaks again to Jaeden, "I know the danger we face, and I was hoping that if I send Luke with him, That hard headed Wizard would change his mind!"
Luke walks beside Fern-gare, follows him every where he goes. The dog ask the wizard "You in trouble? Because Sly send me to protect you!"
Sly's Spells
0) Detect Magic, Read Magic, Flare, Ray of frost.
1) Magic misselsX2, Shocking Grasp, Feather Fall.
2) Flaming Spear, Levetate, Web.
3) Lighting Bolts, Fire ball, Fly.
Death Pressure (DM/Al) Saturday April 29th, 2006 3:34:20 PM
Pressure, applied in the correct place, will fracture the hardest of gems. Such is true, apparently, of men and the bonds between them. As Peerimus walks to the archway of the old Abbey to watch Firn'gaer and Luke depart for the town, he calls to Savin for the Vision of Noxnyx. Savin, in a burst of passion, pleads with Firn'gaer to stay. He takes out the Vision, explaining that he does not know how to use it.
Sure enough, when he looks in the screen, it is readily apparent that the view that it shows is nothing but the area in which the group itself stands. Savin can identify each and every one of his companions. Fortunately, though, Peerimus has Faraday. With the Circle out, all that is required is a simple request, and the view in the Vision jumps. On the screen are Four dots of intense color, very similar to those that had represented the Children of Chaos. No. On second look, there are Five dots. One of the dots appears to be two together. They overlap and move together. Five Chaos signatures all together, one of which must be the Chime of Xaos. They move about each other in random patterns. None of them strays off the screen and away from the presence of the others.
Jaeden arranges with Firn'gaer for a signal. He will send Dalek if Firn'gaer is needed. Then he asks Sly and Father Jasper if they might search for signs of Magic or Evil. Sly replies that he can Detect Magic and Read Magic as well. But that he cannot Dispel it. (Sly, are you going to cast Detect Magic and have a look around?)
Firn'gaer walks the short distance into Heranmar. Luke trails behind. Every so often, the wardog asks if Firn'gaer is in trouble and reminds him that he and Sly can protect him. A group of people mill about around the North Gate. They peer in as though afraid to enter. Various different conversations recount the terror, debate the safety of re-entering the town, and speak of what could possibly be done to protect themselves from such terrible and unexpected attacks.
The gnome passes through the crowd. Silence rolls like a wave as he and Luke pass by. All eyes watch as they enter the town and make their way back to the small shop that houses the portal to the Catacombs.
"Man with the hat?" The proprietor is the same man that Firn'gaer had seen earlier. He looks up, his eyes glassed over with shock. "Never seen him before," the man answers. "That's the same with most who use the Catacombs. I see them once or twice, then never again. He came in before you did. Came out just before you went in. You're the one stopped the cloud, weren't you?" The man's voice begins to crack. "Thank you. They were good people. All of them good people."
=== OOC ===
Sly, you can copy the spell into your spellbook. First you must find a copy of the spell. You can buy a scroll in the Catacombs and use that. Or, you might ask Firn'gaer. After that, you need a 24 hour period in which you do *Nothing* but study that spell. You must stay in one place and do nothing but study. You can't go anywhere, do anything else. One whole day. That's what I give you days of freetime for. Right now, it would be rather difficult to find freetime with the threat hanging over your heads.
Also, keep in mind that you could cast it directly from a scroll if you'd like, and it would only be slightly less powerful than if you had cast it from memory.
Sly and Luke Sunday April 30th, 2006 7:17:23 AM
Sly takes his book out, Thumbs through the pages. With a look of disapointment ha tells Jaeden "I'm soory But it seems that Dispel Magic is not one that I copied from my mother's book, But if I see or had a scroll I could cast it or Study it for a whole day! And that is imposible right now, I have to go with what I have in my head. But if you want me to cast Detect Magic, I can cast that now?"
Luke follows Fern-gare, walking next to his side, he even enters the Catacomb with Him. Luke ask Fern-gare, "Friend Wizard, Please buy scroll Dispell Magic (level 3) for Sly. He give back coins to you."
Firn'gaer Sunday April 30th, 2006 8:02:33 AM
As Firn'gaer leaves, "No Savin, I am unwilling to sacrifice the towns folk. If Gargul should decide that my time in the Wold should end here then so be it. But I will not leave the people here at the mercy of that butcher. Nor do I plan on standing around here debating this. As I said."
**********
"No, Luke, I'm not in trouble." He says to his furried companion. "I'm not going to leave the towns folk defenseless. She killed them without remorse. She killed them to get our attention. That makes us partially responsible and I can't leave knowing that that vile creature could attack again. Not if I can do anything about it." His fists clench and his knuckles whiten. "She will receive the same mercy she gave. The same."
**********
"I only wish I could have saved the others." He says lowering his head. "I fear it may not be over. I plan on hanging around until my companinos can locate the murderers. Just in case they come back."
"I wish I could, Luke." He says to the awakened animal. "Don't have the coin. I don't even have the coin to maintain my guild membership." Not that it matters really anymore...
After leaving the store, Firn'gaer will wander about the town.
Reminds a lot of home. Small villages with people wandering about. I can't...no won't leave these people to be massaqured. I don't understand why they can't see that. Better that we should protect...even if I fall another will rise...
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Peerimus and Yorrick Sunday April 30th, 2006 1:49:58 PM one down, two if you count Luke, blazes three if you count Dalek "They accompished thier mission quite well. We have lost three of our number and they had to barely lift a finger. Jeaden Sly get Luke and Dalek back here, if Firngaer wishes to pitch a hopeless defence instead of striking at them, though striking in of itself is fool hardy at best, his choice. You have an hour to get there and back. Faraday get ready to transport us to Xaos, unless we all have to be present when you begin."
Assuming Faraday can start and then everyone just needs to arrive Peerimus continues. My spells were not set for combat, I will attempt to counter the enemy caster, Jasper you heal our fighters, that is your number one priority. Jadean, Sly, Jones Savin and Yorrick. Pick and drop a single opponent, do not split up. There is only 4 of them, one is likely a caster and I will hold him off. Likely the large creature, I think a taur, is the most formidable fighter. Look for him first."
Peerimus looks at the group, a stern countenance on his face "it takes Faraday about an hour so we can start to gear up spell wise with a good estimation of when we are leaving." The druid then gives a short bow and moves off a few feet and sits in the grass. Mother? Father? I ask for your blessing and strength for us and those of the people of this town. If we fail, He leaves the thought unfinished.
Father Jasper Sunday April 30th, 2006 3:34:58 PM
Jasper Holds his tounge saying all he had to earlier he stands aside and waits for the party to make up its mind, he will however pray while waiting
Sly and Luke (Part 2) d20+5=17 Sunday April 30th, 2006 6:53:54 PM
Sly runs to the end of the road, Then wistles for Luke, "TTWWEEEETT! Luke! Come! Needed!" Sly will walk back to the party.
Luke hears Sly wistle, "Luck to you Friend, Master call me." (listen - 17) Luke runs to Sly.
Sly and Luke Monday May 1st, 2006 8:41:18 PM
Sly and Luke goes back the the rest of the party, he and Luke wait for further orders.
Firn'gaer Monday May 1st, 2006 8:55:00 PM
Sly returns after a short time and informs Firn'gaer and Luke that a decision of action was made.
That was quicker than I would have expected.
The wizard returns with the his two companions. Back out to the Abbey. The sight of earlier differing opinions.
Quiet and in his own thoughts, Firn'gaer doesn't say anything to any of the others.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Savin Monday May 1st, 2006 8:56:19 PM
Savin can't believe that Firn'gaer would leave them at this juncture. He had much respect for the mage but that has been shaken. How could they trust him in the future if he was just going to abandon them now?
Savin hears his instructions and will walk up to Jaeden. "Do you think we should take out their fighter first? I would think we should go after a spell user first. They tend to be easier to kill before they get their spells on. I agree we should gang up on one quickly but it will leave others exposed."
Countdown (DM/Al) Monday May 1st, 2006 9:40:19 PM
The party is galvanized into action.
"I'll get right on it!" Faraday chimes in as Peerimus calls for a jump to the location of the four unknown Chaos signatures. "We'll be there in a wink. Yup. Be there in a wink."
Sly rushes toward the town and whistles for Luke. The wardog heeds the call, and followed by Firn'gaer, returns to the party.
All together once again, Savin speaks quickly with Jaeden about tactics. A fight is coming, perhaps a desperate fight for their lives. Faraday works in silence. The figures still move about on the screen of the Vision of Noxnyx.
Fifteen minutes pass. Thirty, forty-five ...
== OOC ===
If you plan to cast any spells before hand, or list any other preparations, this is the time to do it.
Sly and Luke Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 7:32:49 AM
Sly trie to explain hs feeling to Fern-gare, "Don't worry my Friend, I don't have the time to study the spell, I tried to copy that Dispell Magic from my Mother's book, but never had the time, I was always is a scuffle of one kind or another. Even now, I don't have time to study the spell from your book! I have to go in combat with the skill that I have learn along this path I have chosen. I must depend on my friends and not to try to go at it alone. Together We are stronger than the enermy thinks." Sly turn to Luke asking him "We are going into the big ring Taraday (Sly points to the talking ring) Are you ready to fight?"
Luke answers, "Yes!"
Sly smiles at Luke, at the same time he take out the Little Chest out of his pocket, Opens it, He takes out Scribon and slips it into his little pouch (on his belt) then putting away the the little chest.
Now Sly and Luke are ready.
Firn'gaer Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 11:31:54 AM
Firn'gaer smiles at Sly's attempt to ease the tention. "Sly since the few months I've been on this path, I've learn one thing. Everyday is a potential dangerous situation. I prepare everyday as if I were going into combat. That what's it felt like these few weeks. We can discuss this more at length when we return." He pats Sly on the chest. "Let's get ready. There's some retribution to hand out. I'm for opening a big can of it."
"Just before we go, I'll cast Haste. When we arrive, I'll see if there will adequate space for Mass Enlarge."
Spells for Preparation Shield using extend rod. Haste using extend rod.
Active Spells Detect Magic See Invisibility Extended Mage Armor - 22 hours
4 -- black tentacles, dimension door, mass enlarge person, polymorph
5 -- empowered fireball, telekinesis, wall of force*
6 -- chain lightning, mage's lucubration
* -- Spells cast (r) -- racial spells
Jaeden Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 12:36:31 PM
The moment soon to be at hand Jaeden makes his final preparations. Packs are stowed, straps are sinched, and blade is given a final once over.
The warrior looks up at Savin's question. "To tell you the truth I don't have much experience in these types of fights. I've probably fought more one on one and more mass battles then anyone here... but small group is new to me. That said, I agree. Mages need to go down quick. Priests should follow, and finally the mellee. But... that order is usually secondary to acting as a unit." He shrugs, "at least in larger scale battles it is."
He calls out to Peerimus. "Peerimus, are you sure you can eliminate the casters on your own? Both Savin and I feel that they should be the primary targets if possible."
Peerimus and Yorrick Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 3:41:41 PM
Peerimus merely nods at Firngaer as he arrives with Luke and Dalek. He was hoping most was nothing more than misunderstood intentions and that the mage was more than willing to move against teh enemy rather than waiting for them to strike again. Peerimus maintains hsi self created delusion of a connection to the Wold Through the first 20 minutes of Faraday's preparation. He then stands and gives his own gear a quick once over.
"Savin and Jaeden, I will handle the spell caster, with Firgaer. Gang up and take down any melee threat they have." He holds a hand up for Jaeden "I never said eliminate, I said handle. From everything we know of their power, I and Firngaer are just as powerful as they. The plan is to counter the caster, if we are able we will counter any cleric as well."
The druid then looks directly at the mage, "That said my friend I don't have any of my most powerful spells left and it is possible our opponents have a couple I can not counter so when we first arrive hold off on the Enlarge, you may have to counter the first big casting they try."
"ALso everyone remember, Faraday is not precisely spot on, we may have a bit of distance and substance between us and the enemy."
Peerimus Longstrider, Pass Without a Trace 22hours Yorrick Greater Magic Fang 22hours
Father Jasper Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 5:31:20 PM
Jasper makes ready his own weapons and armor " says a blessing "Lord Alemi watch of us as he strive to make balance to this land as you did and give us the strengh to over come evil in any of its forms" With this he is cast bless
Jones Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 5:45:51 PM
Jones paces pack and forth nervously with a clear desire to be doing something, but he doesn't offer any ideas on a course of action.
Savin Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 7:08:56 PM
Savin summons forth his spiked chain. "I will either try and trip or if large sized, disarm one of the melee types. That should give the rest of you enough of an advantage to neutralize him quickly. If needed I will then close with a spell caster as fast as I can. Grappling them tends to slow down the spell casting."
Savin gives his spiked chain a twirl, and asks Firn'gaer, "How long does the enlarge last? Might make sense to cast it now? That way if we are traveling into a trap, you will be freed up to counter."
Jaeden (second illegal post) Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 8:02:22 PM
"Alright Peerimus, I can play it that way." Jaeden nods to Peerimus' response. "Can Yorrick understand me directly?"
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