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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