BigTim Monday December 4th, 2006 11:16:37 PM
Im sorry about not posting friday or today. I cant find my email from Kathy so am waiting for a resend so I know what the scene is.
Arminas Tuesday December 5th, 2006 1:26:50 PM
Having seen the elves privately mocking Bralin, Arminas decides to bolster Bralin's image in the eyes of the elves about camp. He can be heard saying:
"Sure, he is loud and clumsy, but you should see him fight."
"Yes, I know he has the manners of a badger, yet his heart is kind."
"No, I do not believe him to be as stupid as an orc. Really, look at him fashion the stone carvings. He must have intelligence."
"That is just a rumour. He did not try and kill me, and even if he did he could not succeed. Really, we are quite good friends."
When Bralin happens by, Arminas smiles and waves.
"See, we are buddies."
BigTim Tuesday December 5th, 2006 3:55:21 PM
Kathy resent the module so I will resume with a post this evening. Sorry for the delay.
ADM BigTim Wednesday December 6th, 2006 2:19:45 AM
The morning goes by uneventful, with most of the group doing their chores, or patrols, or other activities. The greenmage excuses himself from the entourage and asks to speak to the Elders privately. And off they go.
As everyone is sitting down for lunch a din of activity can be seen coming from where the town hall is being dug, a couple lads race by the makeshift dining area to the tent where the Elders are meeting. A few moments later they and the Druid move in hurried steps towards that area and as they pass by where you are eating, one of the Elders motions for you to come.
(assuming you all go) Upon arrival you see 3 groups of people, about 6 each speaking in hushed tones. The foreman walks up to the elders and give his account.
We began digging where the main floor would be when Lorimar let out a yelp and fell into what at first we thought was a sinkhole. Upon further examination....well, I think it would be best if you saw for yourselves.
After clearing the way of onlookers you are lead down a couple of wooden planks set on the ground at an angle leading into the Halfling type building. Smack dab in the center of the room you see a rather large hole, a little more than elf sized. A torch is sparked up and as you move cautiously to peer into the hole you see that it drops down maybe 5 feet onto a crude set of stone and earth steps. They lead down another 20' before the light from the torch stops. It obviously extends further down.
Did you go further down to investigate? Asks the Druid.
No, we helped Lorimar out of the hole, sent him to the healers to be looked at, and summoned you. We are not adventurers, we are builders and craftsmen. Investigating places like that is for people like them. <points to the Swords>
After looking at each other for a few moments, and whisperings out of the way, they all turn and look at you.
Any Wednesday December 6th, 2006 8:39:55 AM
"We would need to prepare for a search of this new discovery, but I agree with friend Lorimar, we could do this. I for one am willing, but we should council on this matter, and not rush off in haste. There is also the matter of the protection of the village if we are not here."
Turning to the other Sword's,
"What do you think my friends? It is no less dangerous than our recent excursion into the mines to rescue the children, but we know how that turned out. At least we will not have innocents with us to safeguard as we go."
Lorth Wednesday December 6th, 2006 8:48:55 AM
Lorth nods, "I will be ready to go as soon as the word is given. Until then we should probably post a guard here, in case something comes out.", he looks to Bralin, "I am willing to take that post.", he states.
Fosco Wednesday December 6th, 2006 10:25:53 AM
With a turkey leg in one hand and a mug in his other, I stand there with the others peering into the hole.
Watching and Listening to the goings on in what is to be their city hall, I look around at what they have done, seeing fine craftsmanship and making mental notes of some faults to address with the foreman later.
After finishing all the meat from the leg and draining the rest of the cup I set both down on a table, wipe my hands off on my pants and my mouth with the sleeve of my shirt.
Looking to the others: I will be right back. And don't anyone go in, let me scout first. You know, traps and such.
I then run back to my tent and gather my adventuring equipment, and walk back to the group.
Ok, I am ready whenever you are.
Harvest Wednesday December 6th, 2006 11:21:40 AM
Harvest Moon shivers with the dread of premonition. It is as she had thought. She peers from behind Anthos at the darkness within the hole.
"Paladin Lorth, Paladin Florin, can you feel a sense of evil from within the hole?"
CDM Jerry Wednesday December 6th, 2006 12:49:29 PM
Hey Big Tim. I know you're swamped right now with two games to DM in, so please could someone volunteer to help him out and post the reports each Monday until Kathy is done with her DM Vacation. :) Email me when someone has volunteered to help for a month and has made the report for last week.
Arminas d20+15=26 d20+17=33 d20+12=23 Wednesday December 6th, 2006 3:21:07 PM
Arminas looks down into the hole, and the stairs that lead down.
"Any, I believe that you are letting your thoughts of your dear Harvest cloud your judgement."
Arminas looks at Harvest and smiles:
"Forgive me, but you expressed concern for the elves digging. The reason for your concern is not apparent to me. This simply looks like the elves have discovered the ruins of an ancient settlement. While I do not desire to go below ground, I will bet you a gold piece that these stairs lead down to an empty storeroom. A few minutes from now we will be back about our patrols."
Arminas' possessions are few, and he keeps them in a small pack on his back.
"I will go down though just in case, and see if there are tracks of anything but cave crickets down there."
Actions Follow Fosco down into the tunnel, and check for tracks. Survival tracking 26 Spot 33 Search (secret doors) 23
Posting Report Wednesday December 6th, 2006 7:46:51 PM
for Swords of Light week of November 27, 2006
DM Kathy xxxxo
Any xxxxo Arm xxxxo Bra xxxxo Dav xxxxo Flo xxxxo Fos xxxxo Har xxxxo Lor xxxxo
o's = adm losing module and having to get a resend.
Florin Jadenth Wednesday December 6th, 2006 8:32:54 PM
Florin is more then willing to help with whats happening and heads with the others.
Before they move much farther Florin holds up the group a moment and speaks up to them, "Everyone, a day is coming soon that is special in my family and a tradition is observed by them and me which I try to continue so if you all would give me just one a moment I like to do something at this moment."
Florin pulls his backpack off and digs through it before pulling out a wrapped object and handing one to each person in the group, "In a few days it will be Giving Day and just incase there is no suitable time to do this then I wanted to do this now."
Lorth finds when he unwraps his gift a small silver statue of Gargul. Some of this silver work done by Florin.
Harvest finds when she unwraps her gift a string of beads with high woldian runes carved into each one. (meditateing beads.)
Any when he unwraps his gift finds a dark wood lute with silver decorations on it. Some of the silver work done by Florin himself.
Arnimas when he unwraps his gift finds a small silver statue of a elven ranger hunting. Some of this silver work also done by him.
Bralin when he unwraps his gift finds a nice small stone statue of a valiant looking dwarf riding a pony into combat.
Fosco when he opens his gift finds a set of silverware (spoon, knife and fork) with his initials inscribbed on the handles. The silver work partly being done by Florin.
Davros when he unwraps his gift finds a small diary with silver decoration too. It has the High Woldian symbol of memory on the cover.
Bralin Wednesday December 6th, 2006 9:17:17 PM
Bralin receives the gift from Florin with a nod of thanks.
Looking over the hole and the stairs, he hears Any's query. "Aye, we all should descend," he offers. "The Greenmage provides more protection alone than we do as a group. There is little danger up here."
With that, the warrior goes back to retrieve his pack, and returns in short order. "I should follow Fosco," he notes to the group as they prepare.
Davros Wednesday December 6th, 2006 10:07:50 PM
"Florin such a gift cannot be thanked for with words so instead I offer what I should have done formally and sooner - my hand and my friendship." Davros extends his hand for a heartfelt shake.
"I can't help but feeling that this discovered tunnel is connected to the bear attack. I think we should post ourselves as guards, prepare and go in at first light."
Fosco Thursday December 7th, 2006 12:50:40 AM
For once the halfling is at a loss for words, being given something like this. Mouth opening and closing as if he is trying to come up with the right words. Then walks over, and hugs Florin. Wiping some condensation from my cheek that must of come off Florin's jerkin, I quickly deposit the gift into my pants pocket. And unbelievably, they all fit without a bulge.
Lorth Thursday December 7th, 2006 7:40:37 AM
"Thank you Florin, for your gift. Certainly it is not expected.", Lorth smiles. He then wraps his statue carefully in some cloth and puts it away in his pack. Lorth then nods at Harvest and takes some time to concentrate on the area within the hole, however he doubts he will sense anything, unless something is hiding right around the corner. He lets everyone know if he feels anything of the darker persuasion.
Any Thursday December 7th, 2006 9:09:12 AM
Any accepts the wrapped gift from Florin, and upon its opening he stands holding the beautiful lute. He lifts it into position, and checks its tune with a light strum, adjusting one string with a deft turn of his left hand.
He looks as if he is about to play a tune, but instead he mutes the strings.
"Friend Florin, I have no words to express my thanks for such a gift. I believe I shall have to find those words before I can truly accept this magnificent lute. For now, know that you have given me a gift beyond the gift itself."
He bows deeply to Florin, and rising, he turns to an Elf elder standing nearby.
"We will accept your charge, indeed most are ready to go this instant. While we are below, please care for our animals, and place this lute in a place of safety and honor. By the time we return, it is hoped that I will have discovered the words needed to accept it properly, and we will have true reason to celebrate."
Turning to Arminas, Any softly says,
"My caution comes from our recent experience. My Lady is capable of making her own decisions and taking care of her own safety, and though I do worry at times for her, she has saved my life and yours more often than the reverse. This is one of the many reasons of my love for her."
This said, Any states that he is ready as soon as the others are. His pack is already upon his back.
DM BigTim Thursday December 7th, 2006 10:19:42 AM
After it has been decided that the group will proceed into the dark hole, Fosco easily lowers himself into it. Dropping only 5 feet after hanging his 3 foot self over the lip. Followed closely by Arminas.
The steps lead down some 40' and end at a solid looking stone door some 5' tall. There is no lock of any kind on the door nor is there any hinges or handles. And upon reaching the landing in front of the door, a single sconce to the left of said door comes alive with light, a bluish light, non fire but enough to illuminate the door and the 10 foot landing.
On the door there is writing, yet none can ascertain the meaning.
Harvest Thursday December 7th, 2006 11:57:30 AM
"That is so very nice of you, Paladin Florin." Harvest Moon's face lights with a smile as she explores each bead, reading the rune upon it. "It is very beautiful." She shows the beads to Anthos.
"Your family has a very gracious tradition, Paladin Florin. I am honored to have been a part of it."
But as Fosco Loamsdown lowers himself into the dark hole, the distraction of the delightful gift dissipates, drawing again to the potential dangers below. She flushes pink at Anthos' words of praise. On her way past, she touches him lightly upon the arm. Would that the simple touch could transfer the full wealth of feeling within her, but with the current situation such a hurried sign of affection would have to do.
Harvest lowers to hands and knees next to the hole and tips her head sideways to see down the hole after Fosco and Arminas. With a look of tense expectation, she awaits Paladin Lorth's word of the evil from the hole.
It is almost a relief when there seems no result.
Harvest slips down into the hole. At the door, Harvest Moon casts a spell that she has kept with her for many days. Then she touches the writing upon the door. (Cast Comprehend Languages)
Davros d20+11=14 Thursday December 7th, 2006 4:39:01 PM
Davros drops down into the hole by hanging onto the ledge and then lowering himself. Not nearly as graceful as those who have already entered, he then needs to pick himself up and dust himself off.
Approaching the door, he makes out what he can of the writing, (decipher script 14) and then casts detect magic off of a wand and scans the door and surrounding area for magic auras.
Sensing the excitement, a rat pokes his head out of Davros' cloak and begins to look around. Everyone gets the distinct feeling that they are being "ordered" about as Whiskers gestures first to one and then to the others as they walk by. Seeming satisfied that everyone is performing as expected, he then settles into a posture of command upon Davros' shoulder. Davros merely shakes his head as he continues to concentrate.
Fosco d20+9=13 Thursday December 7th, 2006 8:17:50 PM
Will search the stone door(?) for traps and/or a hidden handle. Search: 13
Florin Jadenth Thursday December 7th, 2006 8:37:31 PM
Florin smiles and is pleased the gifts go over better then he had expected and takes Davros's offered hand, shaking it gently and smiling, "Thank you Davros and I just hope in the short time I been with you all that I been of as much help as you all have been to me so far in our adventuers and that there are many more to come."
Florin smiles and nods to Bralin and the others and looks to Harvest, "I had and have many things against my family but this was a tradition I did enjoy as a child and now older I find the experience of shareing it with others, one that I enjoy also."
Florin smiles at Any's comments and nods to him, "I understand my friend and once we return maybe a song? I would enjoy hearing one as from what I've heard from the others, your hands are quite skilled with the lute."
Florin smiles at Fosco, he reminding him of the halfling member to the Shields, Belkior in some ways and pays the man on the shoulder, "Some people were harder to choose for then others. You and Harvest were ones I was unsure what to get. However Harvest is someone who I believe the beads for meditateing purposes will come in handy for and I have noted your enjoyment of good food." Florin grins, "An I figured a good halfling should have a good set of silverware to eat with. I'm just greatful you gave us your whole name Fosco when we met or I wouldn't of had your initials. An of course I'm happy for my small talent in silver working."
Florin is ready and as normal has his gear with him. When he slips down in the hole with the others he looks to the door and frowns as he knows he can be of little help with this inless it need knocked down. For now he pulls his sword and readies himself just incase a fight is to come.
Arminas d20+15=29 d20+17=26 d20+12=14 Thursday December 7th, 2006 10:25:23 PM
Arminas gratefully accepts the gift Florin offers.
"The craftmanship is extraordinary, you are very gifted. Thank-you, I will treasure this. It is the only item I own of sentimental value."
Arminas wraps the statue and places it carefully in the bottom of his pack.
Arminas moves down the stairs and is startled to see the sconce light up.
"Forgive me Harvest, I was wrong. This is much more than an old store room. I wonder if instead of opening this door we were to seal the passage. Preventing anyone from coming up this way would solve the problem I think. Unless there are creatures who would be impossible to seal out of the tunnel."
Arminas frowns.
"I am afraid I know little of what dwells underground, except for badgers. Here, let me once again search for tracks to see if anyone has passed this way recently."
Arminas once again searches, this time with more care as to be able to discern if tracks are upon the path.
ADM BigTim Thursday December 7th, 2006 11:58:31 PM
Arminas' investigations show that nothing, except for the current party, has been down here for a long, long time. Cobwebs, musty, moldy scents and the dirt is revelant to that revelation.
Fosco and Arminas find that there are no secret or hidden openings of any sort to be found. Or the stone door to be trapped.
Davros - the script on the door doesnt make any sense to you whatsoever.
Harvest - (forgot how to post private posts so ill email you)
* just for reference, the stone door is 5'tall and 3'wide. the floor in front of the door is 5'wide and 10'long and the ceiling is 6', with roots growing down from it. the stairway is 4'wide and 40'long. *
Any d20+4=12 Friday December 8th, 2006 8:32:43 AM
Any also looks at the language above the door. It is possible he has seen it somewhere in his travels,(decipher script-- 12) but nothing seems to make any sense to him. He asks the others if they have seen this before.....
OOC--Will post more later when there is more time.
Lorth Friday December 8th, 2006 9:03:34 AM
Lorth descends into the hole with the rest of the party. He unslings his shield then slowly slides his sword from its scabard. No reason to be caught unready he thinks. He waits towards the back of the group while the more arcane inclined study the runes on the door.
Harvest Friday December 8th, 2006 9:41:21 AM
"Oh ... " Harvest puts her hand to her mouth as the characters upon the door reform and shift position like bugs crawling about in formation.
"It says, 'To go left you must go right.'" The brown girl looks about her in the light of the odd blue torch. "I wonder what that might mean?" She reaches for the torch on the left wall. In the confines of this small tunnel it is not difficult, even for her five foot height.
Davros d20+5=18 Friday December 8th, 2006 4:34:56 PM
"Arminas' idea has merit, but we can't take the risk. We must determine what is here so that the elves know they are safe."
'to go left you must go right' It says. Lets check the sides of this short hall for secret doors." Davros retrieves his everburning torch and begins to search.
skill check: search on wall to right side of door - 18
Arminas d20+12=29 Friday December 8th, 2006 4:49:43 PM
"Well, if you are sure we need to continue then I'll try and find another passage. Really though, it is much nicer outdoors."
Arminas decides to help Davros search for doors, and searches carefully along the walls on both sides of the door.
Search 29 (to find secret doors)
Any (2nd post) d20+5=8 Friday December 8th, 2006 6:37:59 PM
Any starts to search with the others for a secret door, but then stops to puzzle over the meaning of the cryptic message as Harvest translates for the rest.
To go left, you must go right
What can this mean?
Florin Jadenth Friday December 8th, 2006 11:55:38 PM
Florin smiles to Arminas and nods to him, "Your welcome and I didn't do all the work. If I would of then trust me, you wouldn't beable to make out what the figure is. I'm still a novice when it comes to making things of silver or smithing."
Florin listens to what is said and frowns some as he closes his eyes, thinking before speaking up, "Is the stone that lit up like a door knob?" Florin shrugs and smiles sheepishly, "Might sound kind of dumb but just thought maybe it was giving a clue to turning something also or such."
Florin hopes not to get laughed at on the idea as he just thought it was worth a try.
ADM BigTim Saturday December 9th, 2006 1:09:43 PM
As the small landing begins to get crowded, Any , Arminas , Davros , Harvest and Fosco begin searching for secret or hidden doors and as Fosco and Arminas learned when searching the door, there are no discernible exits other than through the stone door ahead.
Lorth takes up a defensive position on the stairs, making themselves ready should the need arise.
After Harvest reads the message off the door, Lorth takes some time to think about the words. To go left you must go right Then adds that maybe the sconce is part of the message.
Harvest Saturday December 9th, 2006 1:17:43 PM
Harvest grips the torch, prepared to pull it from its sconce. Then, at a spark of intuition, she attempts to turn the torch as if a lever mounted upon the pivot of the sconce.
Any (2nd post) d20+10=27 Sunday December 10th, 2006 10:27:50 AM
A Any watches Harvest test out a theory, he continues to puzzle out the cryptic clue.
"Perhaps there is a maze within, and in order to follow the correct path, the 'right', we must take the left hand turnings."
spot-- 27
Lorth Monday December 11th, 2006 7:31:32 AM
Lorth says nothing else he just keeps is eyes open and waits, just incase something hostile shows up. He will follow along anywhere the party decides to move to.
Arminas Monday December 11th, 2006 1:12:20 PM
As he cannot find any secret door, and the walls seem to be closing in on him, Arminas moves to the back near the stairway.
"Excuse me, pardon me."
Finally, he is within reach of the exit if needed.
"Well, the door seems well sealed to me. Best to collapse the tunnel and go back to the sunlight."
ADM BigTim d20+20=40 Monday December 11th, 2006 1:39:23 PM Lorth watches. Any watches.
Just as Arminas moves back to the steps for some fresh air Harvest twists the sconce. Turning it to the right, you hear first nothing. Then you hear what sounds like a swooshing sound then rock scraping on rock then a few clicks and then, a hum. About 30 seconds later the stone door shakes a little then begins slowly moving to the left. The scrape of stone on stone, long since standing sounds irritating to most, causing you to pull your hands up to muffle the sound coming into your ears. The first thing to assault your senses is the smell. The smell of centuries old must and dust emanating out from the room. Then, a sound. Horrible sound. Like of a dog moaning just before death overtakes it. Then, all light, the blue light from the sconce, and the torches you carry, both normal and magical, goes out. Then, just as fast as it took your lights to go out, the room beyond lights up.
Directly across from you, approximately 30 feet across is a bookshelf. from ground to the ceiling some 20 feet up, filled to overflowing with books and scrolls and loose papers. On the left and right wall, some 20 feet across, are writing tables with benches. 5 on the left wall, 6 on the right with ink wells, quills and papers strewn on top on all save for 2. (one left, one right) A dusty, yet discernible rug covering the whole floor can be seen, and felt once you step into the room and at each corner is a sconce like that outside the room, but instead of the blue light these sconces produce normal light like that coming from a torch. Enough to bright the whole room.
Just inside the doorway, to either side of the door is a chest. Wooden and iron bound in relatively good condition.
Harvest Monday December 11th, 2006 4:12:49 PM
Harvest Moon is wide-eyed and very quiet. Hands clutched together, she peers into the room, leading with her small nose as though scenting the air.
"The spell of Comprehension is still upon me, Anthos." She reaches out for his hand. "Shall we enter?"
Davros d20+3=17 Monday December 11th, 2006 7:11:16 PM
"A long forgotten library?", Davros muses aloud. "Certainly the books and tomes beckon, but what was that awful moaning sound?"
Oh well, 'tis the life of an adventurer. Davros enters the room and focuses his detect magic spell to look for any possible auras.
skill checks: spot 17
Any d20+10=14 d20+10=13 d100=85 Monday December 11th, 2006 7:12:43 PM
"By all means my Lady. You read, and I will guard."
He takes the proffered hand, sheathing his dagger to allow a free hand to do so, and follows her into the room, bare sword in his other hand.
What is this place?
spot 14 listen 13
85%chance to comprehend languages as a bard feat
Bralin Monday December 11th, 2006 8:05:26 PM
Bralin turns his head and calls back up the passageway to the elves. Surely they are near enough to hear him. And should this room prove more dangerous than it appears, someone should know what happened.
"A room!" he calls. "Ancient and filled with tomes and charts. We enter."
With that the dwarf pulls his axe and advances until he straddles the threshold.
Bralin inspects the door that slid away - its thickness, its composition. "Fosco, is yon chest trapped?" he asks, pointing to the one just to the left of the door.
If not, the dwarf tests the weight of the chest. He wants to get a feel for how fast he can get it in position to block the door should it slide back.
Florin Jadenth Tuesday December 12th, 2006 12:06:22 AM
Florin looks at the library from where he stands, not yet in the room as he lets the others go first who wish to go in first. It reminds him alot of the library at home but it is abit bigger then the one he knew as a child.
Florin shakes his head quickly and grips his sword as he keeps his guard up.
(Sorry for missing a post.)
Lorth Tuesday December 12th, 2006 7:36:39 AM
Lorth also moves up to the door, but he does not enter. He guards and if the door suddenly starts to close he tries to keep it open.
Arminas d20+10=17 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 2:45:06 PM
Now they have gone and done it. The corridor was clearly sealed, and the tunnel could have been collapsed. Now they have awoken something. The moaning sound makes Arminas cringe.
Shrugging his shoulders, Arminas walks back toward the group and looks through the door.
"I hope this turns out better than it sounds. Something horrible has happened."
Listen 17
Fosco d20+9=14 d20+15=26 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 3:14:51 PM
Cautiously entering the room, I take a long look around, noting the whereabouts of everything and everyone. Weakly smiling at Florin I go to the chest Bralin pointed out and begin searching it for traps. Search: 14 Looking at Bralin. Nope, doesnt appear to be trapped.
Will step to the side to let Bralin test the weight.
ADM BigTim 6d6(6+1+6+3+6+3)=25 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 3:54:40 PM Harvest and Any enters the room first. Upon walking up to the bookshelf you see many books and scrolls. Most books written by people you have never heard and maybe a few you have. Just at first glance, without taking the time to look, you see alot of works on Agriculture and Biology, some on Warfare, and some on Religions just to name a few. Just as you reach for what seems like a spellbook, you hear a loud EXPLOSION from the doorway.
Davros enters and uses his detect magic on the room. Many scrolls and books on the shelves shimmer with magical auras. As well does the ink wells and quills. Turning to look at the 2 chests, just as Bralin hefts one to test the weight, you see a glow of magic as the trap goes off.
A lightning bolt shoots out from the chest, destroying it in the process, and slams into the chest of Bralin. 25 hit points of damage. Reflex dc16 for 1/2, rounded up.
Fosco, Lorth, and Florin are all thrown back from the concussion of the blast.
As the smoke and dust settles from the lightning bolt, and with Bralin sporting a blackened area on his chest, you do notice that everything else is still where it was before the blast.
Florin Jadenth d20+6=11 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 6:19:08 PM
Florin stands slowly after being shot out the door way by the blast and shakes his head abit to clear the cobwebs from his mind before speaking slowly, "Well, that was refreshing. Miss my human ears, they aren't as sensitive."
Florin moves towards Bralin to check on him, "You okay Bralin, everyone else okay also?"
(Heal:11)
Bralin (62/75 hp) d20+4=9 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 7:42:57 PM
Satisfied at Fosco's answer, Bralin grabs the chest...
KABOOM!
The dwarf hadn't so much as flinched before a bolt of lightning picked him up and slammed him against the doorway. Smoke wafts up from a dark black spot on his dull black platemail. [Reflex 9]
From his new spot on the floor, Bralin regards Fosco levelly.
Florin casts a very helpful healing spell, and asks if he's OK. "Aye," he growls in displeasure.
Holding the halfling's eyes in his gaze, Bralin points at the OTHER chest, and lifts an eyebrow inquiringly.
Harvest Tuesday December 12th, 2006 9:16:20 PM
Harvest Moon dives for the floor, fetching up behind one of the benches and peering over the top as the ringing within her ears clears away.
"We are not pressed for time," she observes. "Might it not be wiser to wait until Fosco Loamsdown completes a thorough and unhurried search? What do we have to gain from haste?"
Davros Tuesday December 12th, 2006 10:46:08 PM
"Agreed." Davros then turns to focus his detection upon the other chest, the doorway and along the walls.
"Are there any other doors?"
Fosco d20+9=22 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 11:30:47 PM
Looking at Bralin with a mix of worry and apology I shrug. Haven't checked it yet.
Without being told to I move over to the other chest and examine it for traps. Search: 22
Any d20+10=27 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 11:56:16 PM
Any drops to the ground as the chest explodes in Bralin's hands.
"I agree. Before we destroy anything else, and maybe get someone killed, let's take a little more time to check things out before we start moving things around."
Seeing that Bralin is at leats alive, he moves closer to the Dwarf.
"Do you require more healing? If not, then let's let the others search more fully, while we stand the guard."
Having said this, Any looks around the room once more.
Spot 27
Arminas Wednesday December 13th, 2006 12:20:04 AM
Arminas is knocked back by the blast, and his hands rise to his ears. Luckily, he is unhurt. Perhaps if he does not add to the comments about Bralin's lack of care he may remain so.
So, he stands and looks into the room.
Lorth Wednesday December 13th, 2006 7:51:57 AM
Lorth flies into the hallway trying to break his fall with his arms. When the dust settles he picks himself up and orientates his senses. He then looks back into the room to make sure everyone is ok. Seeing that his friend Bralin is none-worse-for-wear he breathes easier, again taking up his guarding spot near the door. He watches Fosco anxiously...
ADM BigTim Wednesday December 13th, 2006 10:42:47 AM Bralin eyes the halfling after being knocked to the ground and having his chest hairs singed badly from the explosion of electricity. He doesnt have to say anything before Fosco is squirming to do his unvoiced bidding.
Any's search of the room finds there are no other doors or secret doors be in this room.
With a not so satisfactory look on his face, maybe from the last chest mishap, Fosco checks out the remaining chest. Does not seem to find anything that would constitute a trap and Davros doesnt detect any magical auras surrounding it either. It also does not appear to be locked as there is no padlock where one should be.
Florin, Lorth, and Arminas all stand outside the room, at the doorway peering into the room. Harvest watches from a safe spot.
From up the tunnel you hear someone shouting: Is everything ok down there, do you require assistance?
Arminas Wednesday December 13th, 2006 11:34:30 AM
Arminas stands guard by the door, hoping those who know magics and traps can make the room safe. Hearing the question from above he responds:
"Everything is fine, just a lightning bolt from an old chest. I don't think we require assistance, unless someone desires to check the next chest. Hopefully we will be back up soon with news."
Harvest Wednesday December 13th, 2006 12:10:48 PM
"Davros Sapphiredge," Harvest addresses the mage from without the depths of his concentration, "you may wish to give this particular book a thorough examination. It appears to be a spellbook, and as such, it may be protected by magic."
Harvest begins collecting the papers strewn across the desks with the full intention of withdrawing from the room to examine them above. Then her attention is drawn to the two desks that have no papers scattered upon them. Further, she notes, that there are only five desks upon one side whereas there are six upon the other.
"Does anyone else find this unusual?" she asks, revealing her observations to the others.
She shuffles to the two desks, clear of paper. Without touching either, she examines each to see whether the writing surface might be tipped up.
"Perhaps, there are no papers upon these desks because for some reason they must be tipped so that papers would slide off," she observes.
Then she goes to stand in the space on the Left Wall, where a sixth desk might stand.
"'To go left you must go right,'" Harvest Moon repeats. She turns, and points to the empty desk upon the right hand wall. Then she turns back to point at the space of wall directly before her. "I wonder why there is a desk missing here?" she asks.
Question: With the desks numbered 1 to 5 on the Left Wall and 1 to 6 on the right, 1 being closest to the door and moving outward, which are the desks that have no paper on them? Left#2 Right#2. Which is the space with the missing desk on the Left Hand Wall? #6.
Florin Jadenth Wednesday December 13th, 2006 7:58:49 PM
Florin watches and listens but is not to quick to go into the room till he knows everything is clear. When no more magic is detected and as long as it's not getting to crowded in the room he heads in.
Any d20+10=29 d20+5=16 Wednesday December 13th, 2006 10:02:38 PM
Moving up to look at the desk Harvest is standing by, Any wonders along with her about the placement of the desks, and the absence of papers on these two at the end.
Without touching anything, Any looks carefully at the desks.
"Harvest, perhaps we should have Davros and Fosco both look more carefully at these before we do anything."
Spot 29 search 16
Davros Wednesday December 13th, 2006 10:35:39 PM
"Aside from the various books and scrolls, I don't believe there is any more magic about the room. Nor upon the second chest, he adds with a sidewards glance at Bralin."
Davros begins to examine the book and any other glowing scrolls or books. "This is all very interesting, and I could probably spend the next month enjoying reading every last scrap of paper in this room, but this treasure belongs to the elves. I am sure they would be able to use any funds they could obtain from selling this stuff to financially support their new town. I'm sure the elders would like to take a look, but first we must be certain the area is clear."
Davros moves and begins to examine the desks.
Arminas Wednesday December 13th, 2006 10:45:24 PM
As everyone seems to be enthralled with the contents of the room, Arminas adds:
"Is it just me, or did all of you hear the horrific moaning just a moment ago. Before we start counting the treasure, perhaps we should find out if we are about to be attacked by ghouls."
Don't put illegal post in the post name. I don't consider conversation as illegal.
Lorth Thursday December 14th, 2006 8:09:45 AM
Lorth patiently wants outside the room for his more capable friends to examine it.
ADM BigTim d100=91 Thursday December 14th, 2006 2:49:57 PM
After the first desk, when Harvest begins collecting them, the papers disintigrate in her hands. You realize that age played a part in it, so after it, I am sure you chose not to touch any more of the papers.
Lorth and Florin hang back outside the room, watching.
Bralin stands there, getting his bearings after taking a lightning bolt to his body.
Any moves to the opposite side of where Harvest is, and without touching anything begins looking at the desks and the papers laying on top. Most of the papers are so worn with age, that any writing that was on it has long faded away, or is smudged past comprehension. Some papers stand out clearly, but the wording is beyond understanding to you.
Davros examines the books and scrolls that, with his percursory detection comes up glowing. Davros' eyes only Highlight to display spoiler: { Roll me a will save, dc19. When you picked up what Harvest said looked like a spell book, and as you stated, you examined the book and any other glowing books and scrolls. You set off a glyph on the spell book. Just make the roll and post it. I will send you an email telling you what, if anything, happened and you can roleplay that in your next post.}
Fosco goes from the chest to the desks and begins searching them without touching the papers for fear of ruining them more. Will require approximately 30 minutes time for Fosco to search all 11 desks thoroughly.
Arminas repeats yet again his discomfort in regards to the wailing heard as the door was opened.
Harvest d20+17=21 d20+4=23 Thursday December 14th, 2006 3:23:01 PM "We have found a room!" Harvest Moon cups her hands and calls back, adding to the words of Arminas Calaelen. "It will take some time to investigate. I will come up momentarily to describe it more fully to you. But, as Arminas Calaelen has already explained, we have encountered some danger, so please do not descend until we had found it to be safe."
"I will return above until Fosco Loamsdown has finished his examination," she says. The brown girl exits the room, but stops just outside the threshold. Her eye follows the outlines of the doorway, up, across the top, and then down again.
"I had thought the sound earlier no more than old air escaping through the door after many years, Arminas Calaelen," she says. "You don't think that perhaps we may have released something into the land above when we opened the door, do you?"
Idle speculation, however, is no more than that. Only time will reveal the secrets of the room. Harvest crouches into position, before running pell-mell up the stairs to leap up and catch the edge of the hole and scramble her way out.
Jump to catch the lip of the hole: 21 Climb to scramble up 23 vs DC15
Florin Jadenth Thursday December 14th, 2006 7:03:00 PM
Florin ponders things before calling on the power of his god as to allow him to detect evil in this area. He wonders if he should of done that sooner but leaves that thought as he trains his thoughts to the task.
The mention of the moaning also makes him do the detect evil search and he also replies to Arminas, "I'm rather hopeing what we heard was some type of machinery like that of the door opening."
Arminas Thursday December 14th, 2006 7:34:06 PM
Arminas shakes his head at Florins remarks.
"No, I remember it quite clearly. There was the sound of machinery, a scraping sound and then about half a minute later the door starts to open. Remember, it made a very annoying scraping sound as it opened. Then the smell of old stagnet air and mold came through the open door.
After that, there was the terrible moaning sound. It sounded as if something were dying. I don't think a door could make that noise. Perhaps Bralin has a better sense, as I do not know what dwells below.
Well Bralin, what is your opinion on the sound."
As Arminas speaks, he is surprised to see Harvest race past him to the exit.
"Hmmm, do you think we should follow her?"
Bralin d20+7=16 d20+7=27 Thursday December 14th, 2006 8:34:27 PM
The dwarf grabs the second chest and drags it into the middle of the doorway. Should the door close, mayhap the chest will block it.
He turns to Arminas. "Twas not natural sound," he replies ominously. As usual, Bralin doesn't elaborate. Instead he scans the room, thinking.
[Spot 16] [Knowledge Religion check on the sound: 27 (nat 20)
Any d20+10=13 Thursday December 14th, 2006 9:21:17 PM
"Arminas, I do not know if we have released something into the Wold, or if the sound we heard was simply the sound of air escaping from a sealed room. If we have released something, we will have to address that, but untill we are sure, we should discover what we can while we are here.
Harvest went to let those above know what we have found. Let us search carefully to avoid any more detonations like Bralin experienced."
So saying, Any continues to look carefully at the last two desks in the row.
Spot 13
Lorth Friday December 15th, 2006 7:21:39 AM
Lorth again waits near the door, he will not head upstairs unless all his friends retreat from the room.
Davros Friday December 15th, 2006 4:09:27 PM
Davros drops the book he was looking at on the nearest desk. He smiles as he wanders about the room looking at any interesting objects.
Arminas Friday December 15th, 2006 9:03:03 PM
"Any, I do not think anything has passed up through this door. I have been by it since it has opened, and have detected nothing."
((OOC - ACDM Jan)) Tuesday December 19th, 2006 10:55:47 PM
((Hey everyone, I suspect that Tim's power is out. I've just got messages from Jay Barber and Chris Lindsay - they've been without power in the North West area since Friday and have only just got it back.
Hang in there.))
Special Guest DM Kathy in a Return Engagement! d4=1 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 12:42:41 AM
[OOC: There are still lots of people without power here in the NW, and I guess BigTim is one of them. I'm one of the lucky ones; my power was only out for about 6 hours. Anyway, on with the adventure!]
Davros examines the book he found and accidentally triggers a spell! The area around Davros suddenly ignites with a whoosh!, and Davros takes 13 points of fire damage (Reflex save DC 19 for half). [OOC: I know BigTim said Will save, but I had no idea what spell he was looking at so I made it a Fire Trap.]
Harvest calls up her findings and scrambles up out of the hole. Several of the elves lend hands to help pull her up. "Is anyone hurt?" one of them asks.
Florin reaches out his senses, detecting for evil but finding none. At least, none within his range.
Arminas debates whether to stay down here or follow Harvest back to the surface.
Any makes a cursory search of the other desks, but notes nothing out of the ordinary.
Bralin goes through a mental list of the harmful types of undead he knows of. He realizes that anything truly malevolent would have attacked the party right away, and that many of the greater undead do not venture out in daylight. Perhaps the sound you heard was a mere remnant, a memory of someone who once used this strange underground room.
Or perhaps it was something you're just not familiar with...
Lorth Wednesday December 20th, 2006 8:04:36 AM
Lorth instinctively cringes when the flames burst around Davros. "Davros are you ok?", he asks. Lorth is ready to pull anyone out of the room or aid anyone who requires it.
Any 2d8(1+5)+5=11 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 8:41:50 AM
Any instinctively ducks when the fire trap goes off in Davros' face.
"Are you all right? I feel that we should leave this room. There is evidently a great deal of magic in this room, and whoever left it protected it as well. Let us leave for now, and let those who are better equipped to do so disarm and search this room."
So saying, he sings a minor melody under his breath as he takes Davros by the arm (CMW for 11 hp), and leads the way out of this room.
Once on the surface, he explains what they have found.
Arminas Wednesday December 20th, 2006 10:31:50 AM
Arminas follows Harvest and Any to the surface, and breathes deeply the fresh air. Looking up, he can see Ewan flying in lazy circles.
Why anyone would want to live underground is beyond me.
Speaking to the elves, he adds: "It is as they say. Probably it would have been best to have sealed the tunnel, but now I am unsure."
Harvest d20+14=25 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 11:33:55 AM
Harvest Moon winces as the sound of a flash comes from the hole behind her. (Listen 25)
"I think that we are well enough," she replies to the elves. Squatting low, she turns her head and attempts to see back down the stairs. "But the dangers below are significant and very clear."
She removes a rope from her haversack and plays it out, down into the hole before searching for a place to which to anchor it.
"I do not think that we can afford to seal the room and ignore it, Arminas Calaelen. This room is so unusual that I cannot help but think that it is in some way connected to the attack of the bears. I think that we must investigate the room below in order to ensure the safety of this elfish town."
Davros d20+5=14 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 2:38:30 PM
OOC-thanks for the fill-in Kathy.by the way the spell was feeblemind and I failed the save.I will accept the previous result if you want to keep it.
reflex=14
Davros yelps as the flames engulf him briefly. "AAAH! Curse me for a novice! I should have checked it for magic wards. I'm allright. Thank you Anthos for the quick heal. Although I deserved to keep the wound as a reminder of my own clumsiness."
"I would like to suggest that compared to the elves, we probably ARE the best equipped to deal with, and disarm the traps in this room. If we leave any intact, Do we dare trust that none of the curious elven children will sneak in here and activate something? I do not want any unnecessary blood on my hands."
With that, Davros activates detect magic again and examines the spellbook for any more auras.(WITHOUT opening it! :) )
Florin Jadenth d20+3=8 d20+3=9 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 3:41:16 PM
Florin takes a deep breath at how many traps seem to be going off and slowly moves into the room with his detect evil still active, wanting to check the room out and giving a warning before entering also, "I'm going to see if anything radiates evil in here also or if I can pick up anything odd."
(Spot:8 Search:9)
Bralin Wednesday December 20th, 2006 9:37:31 PM
The dwarf stands in the doorway, waiting. The room is well protected, and Fosco and Davros are likely best equipped to deal with it.
DM Kathy Thursday December 21st, 2006 1:28:34 AM
More cautious now, you continue your examinations. Fosco finds and disarms a couple of traps. Davros detects no further auras on the book he holds, but Abjuration auras on a couple of other books in the room promise a lively time to come. Florin still detects no evil, however.
Up above, Arminas is all for re-sealing the underground room, but Harvest is not so sure. She gets out a rope and looks about for someplace to anchor it. There is a likely-looking boulder nearby.
The elves, for the most part, seem content to wait for news of your discoveries, but one or two display an almost Halfling-like curiosity. "What did you find?" a young woman asks eagerly. "What's down there?"
Lorth Thursday December 21st, 2006 7:14:17 AM
Lorth adjusts his position by the door making sure he can see whatever is going on in the room, but not entering it. "If anyone is in need of healing or assistance, please let me know.", he says quietly. Other than that he just waits...
OOC-to DM ,not a post Thursday December 21st, 2006 9:18:33 AM
Any already explained to the villagers what has been found underground, at least what the adventurer's know about it thus far.
Harvest d20+5=20 Thursday December 21st, 2006 3:22:39 PM
Harvet Moon circles the boulder, pulling the silk rope behind her. She knots a sliding loop and draws it tight. (Use Rope 20)
"It is no more than the single room," Harvest replies. "So far that is all that we yet know. It is as Anthos has described. I do not believe that there is any more that we can tell you about it before it has been made safe to read the books and otherwise explore the room."
"It should not be too much longer, I do not think. But that is best left to Fosco Loamsdown to decide. It appears that he is well versed in such things."
Davros Thursday December 21st, 2006 11:22:52 PM
Davros gathers and sets aside all the books that have abjuration auras on them.
"Fosco, these may have slight problems" , Davros says with a smile. "We must be very cautious, some of the traps may ruin the book they are in."
Arminas Thursday December 21st, 2006 11:57:22 PM
Arminas calls down Ewan from the sky.
How was your hunt?
Arminas rubs Ewans feathers and tries to gain the desire to go once more below ground.
"Harvest and Any, what shall we do? It is crowded below, yet I feel we are of no use up here."
Arminas looks at the rope work and adds:
"Nice work Harvest, it should hold well."
Any Friday December 22nd, 2006 12:19:02 AM
Any nods at Harvest and Arminas.
"Let us wait a moment as you have suggested. I know I cannot do more than I have done in the room below untill it has been cleared, and Davros and Fosco are the most able to do that task."
So saying, he seats himself on the edge of the pit, and calls down,
LOG ON