Jova Monday July 23rd, 2007 11:37:40 AM
Jova rides on in silence. Diseased land, Sons of Dread, Marteus. An awful pattern was emergin in his lfe.
To the Portal Monday July 23rd, 2007 2:24:26 PM
The grass begins to thin as you continue on. Horvis, flying overhead, can now see that it disappears altogether ahead.
Soon enough, the party leaves the last of the grass behind, and finds itself trudging through dry, dusty grey dirt. The valley begins to narrow as you approach the end.
Horvis can see from his vantage that towards the end of the valley, there is a sudden drop on both sides and at the end, where the ground takes a sudden plunge well over 100 feet. He warns the party not to stray too close to the cliffs.
Now that you are closer, you can see that the stone construction is indeed some sort of doorway. Made of three enormous stones, two upright and one laid sideways over their top, you find yourself wondering what sort of beast was used to lift and arrange such obviously heavy rocks.
Troughton, seemingly unperturbed by the queasy feeling shared by the others, stumps along, talking all the while.
". . . and you see how the grass doesn't grow here anymore. Hasn't been a blade of grass in this part of the valley since the army of Aisildur was defeated in the second invasion, nigh on 500 years ago now.
"Guardians?" he says to Tratain. "Well, true enough, some things in the valley are guarded by nasty little surprises. But this here portal . . . not much need for a guardian, is there? Exactly what on the other side needs to be guarded? HA! No, no, anyone who is dumb enough can enter this doorway here, as long as they pay the price."
Looking around at each of you, he continues, "which leads me to the point I made earlier: I can help you get in, for the proper remuneration.
"Now, it takes some time to figure out what the current key is for the portal. Once I get that important tidbit, it's up to you to figure out how to get ahold of the key and get it here before the portal resets with a new key altogether. HA! Quite a few would-be adventurers have given up after a few such failures!"
Walking over to a spot near the portal, Troughton plops down on the ground and stretches his extremely short legs. "Here's how it works: something valuable needs to be put in the gateway before you can pass through. That something changes all the time. Usually stays the same for a couple of days, max, before the gateway decides it wants something different entirely.
"It's fairly impossible to bring the key with you the first time, short of being able to predict the future, so you've got to come up with a way to find out what it is, go and get it, and get back in time to use it.
"Now I'm your ticker for the first part, but the second and third are up to you. And, not to be rude, but since my value goes down significantly after I've imparted the information on the key, I'd prefer to have my own payment settled beforehand."
Troughton leans back, using his pack as a cushion, and pulls out some dried meat to munch on while watching the portal.
The portal itself appears to be nothing more than three large rocks. You can see through to the other side easily enough. You can see runes and scripts along the side and top, in a few different languages.
Monthor recognizes the sides as written in dwarven, and Arien can see the top is Elven, although a rather ancient dialect. The engravings on the stone are not words, exactly, but appear to be some sort of magical runes.
Spellcraft DC 30 Highlight to display spoiler: { the runes are not of any type you've seen since you began your adventures. They appear to have been made to power spells similar to those in existence today, although they seem to do so in an odd way. It's almost as if the makers didn't use the same magical language used in this day and age. In any event, the runes are essentially worthless now (except for scholarly study), and do not seem to be connected to any magical power any longer.}
Draax Tuesday July 24th, 2007 12:18:50 AM
Draax follows Troughton's example and takes a sit on the ground. He will let those that have knowledge in magic handle the rest of the discussion. He takes out his sword and places it on his chest as he leans back and closes his eyes.
Juliander Tuesday July 24th, 2007 9:25:35 AM
"Well good sir, it is nearly impossible for us to determine what appropriate payment might be without further information on what the wise Troughton Burk might find of value. Please do enlighten us." The bard smiles as he opens up negotiations with the gnome.
Monthor Tuesday July 24th, 2007 10:34:27 AM
Monthor reads out loud the sides written in Dwarven.
( Ooc> I'll be away from Thursday night to next Thursday night, possibly Friday night. Draax will cover. C.S. will be sent tonight.)
Lumi-Juova d20+14=28 d20+14=21 d20+14=28 Tuesday July 24th, 2007 1:23:26 PM
Lumi stalks the stone door, carefully looking around to see if there are any clues in recent visitors. A glance over the cliffs is worth seeing if there are any of these guardians that the human spoke about. (Spot:28, Listen:21, Survival:Tracking:28)
Coming back to where the Harmaa Ritari are gathering amongst the sickly grass, Lumi reports on the little he sees. Cocking an eye to the small human, the black striped wemic gives voice to his speculations.
"I think this talk of Guardians for the way points to this Troughton. Only a special sacrifice will open the door. Only Troughton knows what the sacrifice is. Unless we have magical means, there is no way to validate the story or coerce the information." Lumi smiles his closed-mouth smile and is careful to not show any teeth or claws. "And it doesn't appear that he is worried about being surrounded by nine very dangerous people. Which means you have the tiger by the tail, Master Troughton. Name your price, and we will have to pay it."
Negotiations Tuesday July 24th, 2007 1:51:36 PM
"Well!" Troughton exclaims at the liontaur. "I wasn't worried before! I thought you were kind folk . . . but now I'm getting quite a bit more nervous, thank you!"
He moves around to the other side of his pack, attempting to look nonchalant, but staring at Lumi in obvious fear. Sitting with his pack between himself and Lumi - he apparently thinks it might provide some bit of protection - he continues in a far more nervous voice.
"You all seemed to think I'm something or someone I'm not, when I just came to help you! I didn't have to walk back all this way after just walking out! Fine . . . well then . . . what I need right now - what I am always in need of - is a grant. It's much more costly than you'd think being a researcher. I need capital to keep me supplied so I can do my work without taking on questionable projects.
"Right now, for instance, I'm working on a book about the migratory patterns of ogres indigenous to Izen and the Red Hills region. You can imagine how costly that can get.
"So let me think . . . I could conceivably finish the work in about a year . . . multipled by 7 . . . add extra for summer . . ." he continues mumbling for a few moments, deep in thought and counting through his fingers a few times. "I'd say five hundred gold should do it!" he says with a smile to Juliander.
"And for that, I'll learn what your key is, help you use it, and be here when you get back. Of course, that's five hundred gold plus the rights to your story inside, no less."
Meanwhile, Monthor studies the dwarven runes on the portal, but finds that without any magical training, he can do no more than tell that they are, in fact, dwarven.
Draax Tuesday July 24th, 2007 3:35:03 PM
Draax opens an eye and looks over at Troughton and Juliander. He would normally let Juliander handle the negotiations, but if 500 is all the little man wants, Draax has a hard time keeping his mouth shut. He speaks up, not realizing that he just cut Juliander off.
"If you do everything you say you will do, then 5 hundred is a fair price, it is a little higher than I was thinking, but still a very fair price. I think we can meet that price if you can do what you say you can do. We will give you half up front and the other half before we pass through the door. If we return, I will even double it.
When/if we make it back, my story is yours, I will not speak for the others, they can tell you their stories or not, it is up to them. I do have one stipulation for you, my soon to be good friend Troughton. I require that while we are gone, until we return and until we tell you our story, you cannot tell anyone where we have gone or even that you have met us. I do not want to return to find a town of people standing in front of me with their hands out."
Draax opens the other eye and looks directly at Troughton, "OK, you help us get through the portal and keep your mouth shut about our business until we return and tell you our story. We agree to pay you 1500 gold; 250 before we search for the key, 250 after we find the key and get ready to go through the portal, and 1000 when we return. Are we in agreement?"
Tratain Tuesday July 24th, 2007 4:54:32 PM
Tratain thinks hard for a moment and then says "We will give you the ammount of gold that Draax has offered. But I have a few stipulations. We want to see this story before you publish it. Also, while we will tell you everything that has happened to us inside, I would like the names and places changed. I would rather have the book represented as a fictional tale, rather than a true accounting of our trip through here. This place is very dangerous, I do not want young adventurers who may not be prepared to read this and think it would be a grand idea to travel here, they will probably get killed. While the events in the book may be true, I would like it represented as fiction. It may help the book sell better also, plus my friends and I do quite a bit of other adventuring. If you are a talented writer perhapse we could tell you some of our other tales for you to write about to fund your research."
Jova Tuesday July 24th, 2007 5:34:06 PM
Jova rides up to the group. Listening to the negotiations of the dwarf sounds ok to him. This new liontaur though, is a bit scary.
Dismounting, he walks a little ways away from the others. He peers down the cliff face as though he has found something. "Luni, can you join me for a moment."
If the liontaur comes over, Jova explains what they are going to do. What Fae skerrin is, and what they plan on getting out of the adventure. Throwing caution to the wind, he also explains the offer of the admission to the Consortium. All of this, of course, out of earshot of the dwarf.
Lumi-Juova Tuesday July 24th, 2007 8:45:48 PM
The large liontaur's ears prick up and he backs off a pace when it seems that Troughton is intimidated by his words and manner. That is in fact rather startling to Lumi, and he's not quite sure of what to make of it!
It is with a sigh of relief that the tiger-striped wemic moves away from Troughton and with Jova. As they get alone together, Lumi seems to stiffen up again, as if he is on his guard about something. He listens to Jova, his black eyes giving away nothing.
"I have also been invited to join the Consortium", he tells the tall man, "and which is why Omrad sent me to meet you and the other Ritari. As to the home of the elves and what is there, I suppose that this Verash the Sage will be able to tell us more, yes?"
He glances back at the man who seemed so frightened of Lumi, and lowers his voice still more to Jova. "I didn't mean to scare the man. But wandering alone out here, it seems safer to assume not everything is as it seems."
Monthor Tuesday July 24th, 2007 8:58:12 PM
Monthor gives Draax the evil eye. Really, offering so much more coin then asked will only awaken suspecion in the little researcher. But what can you do? What's offered is offered.
" Just make sur ye spell me name right. M-O-N-T-H-O-R. "
Juliander Wednesday July 25th, 2007 9:47:47 AM
Seeing that the negotiations with Troughton have taken on a life of their own, Juliander crosses his arms casually and relaxes to watch as the other Gray Knights open up bidding on the gnome's "grant." Curious that they would pay the gnome to fictionalize something that the bard will likely do in song for free, sans the fictionalization. However, since Juliander isn't one to spend a person's money for them, he remains quiet, though his eyes narrow in amusement.
Negotiations Complete! Wednesday July 25th, 2007 1:20:41 PM
Troughton visibly straightens at the mention of additional money. "Too kind! That's what you are! Why, that much gold could fund my research for years! I accept."
In reply to Draax, he says, "Worry not about my telling tales out of turn. In fact, I propose to wait here for you anyway. Reentry can be . . . tricky . . . sometimes. There might be something I can do to help, who knows? Then again, as someone pointed out, it can be dangerous here. I don't suppose anyone would be willing to stay behind and provide a guard for me?"
Looking to Tratain, Troughton's grin sags. "Fiction? Hmm . . . I've never done fiction . . . . Well, the knowledge is what I want the most. If it must be fictional, so be it. You have my word on that." He bows deeply to Tratain, almost falling forward on his short, stumpy legs.
Jova and Lumi walk off to talk in quiet whispers together, out of earshot of the group.
Troughton nods to Monthor, then scribbles something in his notebook. "Fiction though, master Monthor. I am sworn to fiction, it seems."
With that, Troughton goes back to rummaging through his pack. After a few moments, he emerges with a pair of dark wooden sticks with small runes carved on them, a pewter bowl, and some incense.
"Now, here is how this works. It's going to take me the better part of a day, if not until tomorrow, figuring out what you'll need to pass through the gate. What you all need to do is figure out how you plan to obtain whatever material or particular thing the gate wants. The key changes every few days, but it's always something very expensive. By the time I determine what the key is, we may have days, or we may have hours, before it changes. Then we have to start all over again.
"I need to get to work. Please, give me sufficient peace and quiet that I can concentrate. Planar travel isn't simple, you know!"
With that, Troughton walks over to the gate and sits down cross-legged in front of it, about a foot from the entranceway. He keeps the items from his pack next to him on the ground. It almost looks like he is meditating.
Izen Wednesday July 25th, 2007 1:23:11 PM
Izen, standing off to the side quietly, listens to Troughton's negotiations while absent-mindedly rolling a coin between his fingers.
When Troughton requests that someone stay behind as a bodyguard, he sighs and flips the coin. It lands in his hand, and he looks down at it. Shoulders sagging ever so slightly, Izen steps forward and says, "I'll stay behind with him. He may need some protection out here while he waits for the group to return.
CDM Jerry Wednesday July 25th, 2007 2:07:41 PM
Hey friends. I need the report for last week posted. Email it to me too please so I can cross it off my list. ;)
ooc SteveK Wednesday July 25th, 2007 3:14:48 PM
I'm going on vacation 30 July to 10 August. Is there someone who would like to keep Lumi sniffing around and looking for something to hunt? :)
stephen.knotts@us.army.mil
Tratain Thursday July 26th, 2007 12:22:17 AM
Tratain steps back and waits for Troughton to work his spells and hopes that the group will be able to aquire whatever is necessary to open the portal.
OOC Posting report will be done tomorrow on my day off :) So strapped for time right now.
Arien d20+27=38 Thursday July 26th, 2007 12:28:16 AM
The elven mage studies the portal and the runes around it. After the negotiations are complete with Troughton, Arien relays what he discovered relating to the runes.
Jova Thursday July 26th, 2007 6:32:03 AM
Jova continues chatting with Lumi.
"Although your demonstration sir, was, shall we say impressive, it did not allow for 'how' you prefer to fight. If you could tell me it would bode well. Tratain, Arien and Draax are all solid fighters. They use their heads as much as their weapons. Hard to read Juliander. Monthor is, well Monthor. A dwarf on a quest to kill everything, you will see hom jump to battle. Izen is sneaky, does alot out of sight. Horvis advances quickly as well, he has the ability to assume many forms. I am still figuring where i should be.
"So, if all else we could team up and help one another. If our styles can compliment, and not confuse.
"The stranger seems to be starting whatever needs to be done. You are rtight not to trust anyone. This group has a circle of assassins after it now. Spns of Dread as well. A careful eye, will keep you, and hopefully us alive."
Monthor Thursday July 26th, 2007 8:51:24 AM
" Can we go now?... "
ooc> And with that I'm off for a week. Let's try not to get Monthor killed AGAIN please :-)
Draax Thursday July 26th, 2007 11:19:59 AM
Draax sits on the ground again and waits with the others while Troughton does his thing.
Waiting for the Portal Thursday July 26th, 2007 4:49:45 PM
As the day continues, the party waits around the portal. Some conversations pop up, and some are content to sit back and relax.
Troughton continues to sit in front of the portal, mumbling incoherently every so often.
After a few hours, he reaches out and grabs his incense. Setting it up in front of him, he lights it, then picks up the two engraved rods and holds them out in front of himself.
He stays in this position for nearly an hour before relaxing momentarily, then lights more incense and resumes his trance-like state.
Evening begins to set it, with no appearance of a halt by the short scholar. As the sky darkens, it looks like the group will be spending at least part of the night while Troughton continues his odd work.
Lumi-Juova Thursday July 26th, 2007 5:46:45 PM
The large liontaur carefully considers Jova's words before replying in his pleasant baritone. "I am surprised, Jova, for I had thought I demonstrated most of my talents outside the village." His eyes cloud over for a moment when remembering the fear in the villagers' eyes. "I am a hunter and tracker. I prefer to sneak up on my prey and then quickly strike, hard and fast. Those few times I have worked with a group, I have tended to be the center of the enemies' attention. This has allowed my companions to use missle weapons, flanking attacks, or (and he pauses slightly) or spells to weaken the foe."
"I am surprised that you say Arien is a warrior." the white Lumi continues, "I had thought from his attire that he works in magic. As do you?" The last is said questioningly and again with a tenseness out of character with the confident wemic.
Juliander Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:23:33 PM
Juliander bows low to the liontaur, "I am what I am... that is to say that I do not limit myself to a single word description whenever possible." The human smiles, "It is safe to say that I possess a collection of useful skills and abilities that are social, martial, and magical in nature."
Draax Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:35:01 PM
Draax raises an eyebrow when he see that it is beginning to get dark. He looks over at the little man and wonders if the man did not con them out of 250 gold pieces. He sighs as he realizes that all he can do is wait until the man finishes whatever he is doing. Draax decides to gets up and begins setting up camp.
Monthor Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:37:34 PM
Seeing that they will be staying the night in this spot, Monthor gets ready for a long night. "OK ladies, who will be joining me on first watch?"
Lumi-Juova d20+14=22 Thursday July 26th, 2007 11:10:02 PM
Seeing the gathering dark, Lumi will pitch in to help, as well as to see how this group does it. Bringing a medium-sized felt tent out of his backpack, the liontaur sets up the willowy frame until it looks like a sage colored hummock. questing about, Lumi will help gether firewood as well as lighting a small and safe cooking fire. (Survival:22)
"Don't ask me to cook", he tells the others, "I have been known to burn water!"
Jova Friday July 27th, 2007 1:38:23 AM
Looking to lumi, a bit of surprise, then mirth. "Lumi, as you will soon learn, 'warrior' is more of an attitude, than a title. Arien weaves magic, it is true, but has the warrior spirit. This is not a hunting party. Well for you to recognize it as so. "
Jova wanders about, talking to hmself, or communicating with Z one never knew.
Arien Friday July 27th, 2007 3:19:40 AM
Arien smiles as it grows dark and watches his companions get ready for the night. "I have found that while the ground does make for an interesting resting place, lately I have been experiencing a growing desire for something more that hummocks, rocks and roots. So if you don't mind I believe that I shall retire someplace a bit more...restful."
The elven mage withdraws a trio of spell foci and after contemplating them a moment casts a spell. After Arien finishes the spell a faint shimmering appears in front of the mage that the party, and Troughton should he take a moment to observe, can see. Arien pockets the spell foci and with a smile says, "You are free to join me if you like, unless of course you have a special attachment to sleeping on the ground."
That said the elven mage steps through the shimmering portal and vanishes into the spell. Should any of the others follow Arien into the portal they will find a large room beyond with silken curtains cordoning off rooms for the individual party members, each designed with the owner's race in mind.
Large pillows make beads for the two Tauric companions. For the others, large four-poster beads that somehow are just the perfect hardness with large pillows and carpets layering the floor. The center of the room is dominated by a large table, overflowing with food and drink of every type imaginable. A second table, smaller has a dozen chairs or cushions for the party members to rest on. Servants stand at the ready to fetch whatever their guests might wish to partake of.
Key to the Portal Friday July 27th, 2007 3:33:02 PM
Anyone not sleeping in the magical room Highlight to display spoiler: { Troughton works through most of the night. Or, more aptly, he sits meditatively, ocassionally waving a wand or lighting incense, through most of the night.
In the early hours of the morning, before the sun has even hit the horizon, he suddenly stands up and announces, "I got your answer! Though you're not going to like it, I think."}
Looking around, Troughton sees that not all of the group is present. "Hhmmph! I'm not going through this twice. Let's wait until everyone is here."
Once morning comes and anyone inside the portal has emerged, Troughton clears his throat and addresses the group. "As I said, I found the key, but you're not going to like this.
"The gate has specified that it wants some enchanted gold bars. 10,000 gold pieces worth, to be precise. The enchantment doesn't much matter, as long as the bars emanate some sort of magic for the gate to gobble up. What you do is, you put the bars - or whatever the key happens to be - right there inside the portal," he points to the stone structure. "The gate will take care of the rest from there."
Looking around, Troughton's face appears a bit apologetic. "I don't know who carries 10,000 coin worth of gold bars on them. Now everyone's going to blame old Troughton if you can't get through the gate, right?
"How . . . how will you get the key in time? As I said, there could be a day, there could be three days, but it will change soon enough, and the gate will want something altogether different."
Lumi-Juova Friday July 27th, 2007 5:04:03 PM
Setting up his tent, Lumi is startled at the magical mansion Arien has set up. Cautious about the door, he lets several of the others to go through before he does himself. Impressed with the being, the tiger-striped white liontaur is willing to grab some food, but then apologizes to Arien before going back outside.
"Looks great, but I'll stand guard over the little man." A little hurriedly, the liontaur moves back outside and takes a deep, appreciative breath.
Through the night, Lumi will stand guard or if someone else comes out, will rest half in, half out of his felt tent. He sends the owl that has been with him to go out and hunt some fresh food for itself.
In the morning, the large liontaur is completely without ideas to find 10,000gp in enchanted gold bars. Upending a small leather purse into one hand, he laughs at the sky. "I can provide 37 gold pieces to the pile. Now we only need nine thousand and a bit more!"
Monthor Monday July 30th, 2007 2:29:16 AM
Monthor takes the first watch and then he takes Arien up on his invitation.
Draax Monday July 30th, 2007 2:42:25 AM
Draax takes the second watch and tries to think of ways to get the enchanted gold bars.
He waits until they are away from Troughton before he begins discussing the gold bars. "I guess we could melt the gold down ourselves and make it into gold bars. Arien could cast an enchantment on them and we are good to go. The wizard's lab back at the estate should have something that can heat the gold until it melts or at least I hope it does. A teleport spell could take one or more of us there and then back. If we could do that it should not take more than a day."
Draax waits to hear what the others think of his idea and if anyone has a better idea.
Jova Monday July 30th, 2007 2:52:06 PM
Jova had taken the offer and stayed in the mirage. This was good. They could always use such a place to rest, if only for the protection that it gave.
In the morning, he calls Z to his side. With his rod of extending he casts his usual spells. Mage armor, shield, and the steed. All to last until the next day.
"I agree with Draax. The only other option would be to contact Lord Arrak, maybe he has the gold bsrs."
Lumi-Juova Monday July 30th, 2007 2:53:51 PM
The night had passed without event. The others looked as if they were going to leave, so Lumi packs up his tent, and moves off with the,. He had no idea where they could come up with more gold, or the enchantment.
Draax Monday July 30th, 2007 3:40:46 PM
Draax nods his head at Jova's suggestion. "Good call Jova, I did not think about him. He probably have a few lying around."
Plans for the Gold Monday July 30th, 2007 4:40:52 PM
The group moves off a bit and discusses the turn of events. Troughton sits patiently by the portal, reading a book and mumbling to himself while he makes notes on the pages.
Various ideas for coming up with the gold bars are tossed around, but no consensus reached yet.
Horvis Monday July 30th, 2007 9:51:05 PM
The eagle wakes from his slumber where he had been perched. When Horvis is informed of the need for a large amount of gold, he offers some suggestions like the others.
"I put all my cash with yours, so I have nothing to add. If we had the cash, surely one of you could teleport back to Plateau City and purchase the gold from a merchant or jeweler? Does one of have a spell to temporarily put a glamer on items? Failing that, isn't there a shop in Plateau City where you can buy enchantments along with items?"
Tratain d20+7=14 Monday July 30th, 2007 10:44:31 PM
Tratain glances at Troughton when he tells them what they will need for the gate and attempts to determine if he is being truthful or not.(Sense Motive 14)
If tratain thinks that he is being Truthful Tratain says "I can use our statuette to contact Lord Arrack and see if he can give us any idea's on where to find that much enchanted gold Bars. If he doesn't know We can teleport back to Plataue City and go to the catacombs and see if they can provide us with what we need."
Tratain Monday July 30th, 2007 10:47:11 PM
Tratain will also pull out the Scroll Give to the group by Queen Maab with the Never Fading spells of Find Portal and Open Portal and attempt to use it and see if it has an effect.
Adm Joe Monday July 30th, 2007 10:51:45 PM
Posting Report for week ending Friday July 6th
M T W R F DM X X X X X Tratain O X X O O Jova O X X X X Monthor X X X X X Izen O O X O O Arien O O X X O Horvis O O O O O Draax X X X X X Juliander X X O X O Lumi X X O X X
Juliander Tuesday July 31st, 2007 1:10:02 AM
Juliander shrugged, "I also included the majority of my monetary wealth in that last Catacombs transaction, though if we're all completely strapped I suppose that we could sell a few items in order to get the money."
Plans for the Gold (continued) Tuesday July 31st, 2007 12:20:21 PM
Tratain eyes Troughton warily, but he senses that the little man is indeed being truthful, though Troughton seems quite nervous at having delivered the bad news.
Troughton breaks into the discussion and says, "The enchantment part isn't really your issue." He points to Arien. "He can do whatever you need. See, the gate doesn't care what the magic is, it just wants the magic. You'll find that's true most everywhere in Fae Skiemir. Heck, give the gold some magical protective quality . . . make it shine with artificial light . . . do anything to it you like. It's easy enough. The hard part is finding the gold.
"I hope you're not mad at me. I told you people go crazy trying to get into this place. By the time someone gets ahold of the key, it's already changed to something else entirely and they have to start all over!"
Discussion centers around shopping in plateau city or contacting Arrak. At the mention of teleporting, Troughton nods vigorously. "That's probably your only bet to make it in time," he says.
---------------------------- OOC: I don't know what Queen Maab's scroll is supposed to do. Can anyone point me to something in the archives? Sorry, it was well before my time in the Wold, I think.
If someone can make me better informed, I'll figure out what, if anything, it can do for you.
Draax/Stan Tuesday July 31st, 2007 5:09:28 PM
OOC: The following refers to the scroll:
The Scroll of Guidance (DM Cayzle) Friday August 19th, 2005 6:57:04 AM This is the Thursday DM Post.
The initial investigation of the scroll is fruitful -- any divine caster can use it. There are two spells on the scroll:
Find Portal -- a second level divination that locates the nearest gate into or out of a valley in Maab's realm.
Open Portal -- a fourth level transmutation that opens a portal in close range.
However, these spells can only be cast from the scroll -- they cannot be prepared in your head.
The party takes a break from the intensity of meeting a Power and enjoys a few jokes. The relief is welcome especially given that the party's trials are not over.
"Oh no little buddy, we are not mad at you. We just need to figure out what we need to do to make it happen. So do not worry about it, just remember that the dwarf is always the hero."
Draax Tuesday July 31st, 2007 5:22:02 PM
Draax eats a small breakfast and puts aways his sleeping gear. He forgot all about the scroll until Tratain mentioned it, but has no idea whether it would help in the current situation. He waits to hear what the group decides to do.
Horvis Tuesday July 31st, 2007 9:28:55 PM
The giant eagle waits with increasing impatience while the others debate.
"I can sell one or two of my items to raise the cash, if you like. I don't always use all of my Tears anyway."
Juliander Tuesday July 31st, 2007 10:26:08 PM
Horvis's suggestion spurs further ideas for Juliander, "I can also assist with raising the money by selling items as well. I have a wand that I almost never use. It shoots magic missiles... five at a time... and has actually never seen use, so it is fully charged."
Jova Wednesday August 1st, 2007 2:07:32 AM
Jova moves over to Lui and introduces his familiar Z to the wemic. He also introduces Z to Lumis owl, and vice versus. The animals with the group need to know one another asmuch as the people.
While people are giving up items to find the gold for the entrance fee, Jova contemplates the issue.
"Out of curiosity, what happens if we just ask the gate again? Maybe it will have changed by now, and we have the desired key. Interesting."
Lumi-Juova Wednesday August 1st, 2007 2:08:56 AM
The hunter yearns for the hunt. All this debate is not suitable for him. He accepts the friendliness of Jova nad his bird.
At the Gate Wednesday August 1st, 2007 12:54:14 PM
Tratain withdraws a scroll and begins to read from it. The air around the portal seems to darken every so slightly, and a chill breeze wafts through. The stones in the gate shudder, then fall silent, the air returning to normal. The gate stands as it did before, a mere window to the grass on its other side.
"Huh . . ." says Troughton after a pause. "Never seen anything even get that close without using an actual key . . . ." He shrugs, and pulls his notebook out to make a few scribbles, eyeing the scroll all the while.
"Dwarf . . . equals . . . hero," he mumbles as he writes another line.
Others in the group offer to sell various unused items to raise the money, then Jova raises a question.
"Well," says Troughton, again warming to his subject. "We can, of course, seek the key as often as you like. Or, that is, until I need to get some new supplies," he adds, shaking his bag for effect. "We will indeed learn the new key once it is chosen, though I fear you won't be in any better a spot.
"You see, just like the elven city itself, the portal craves two things: gold, and magic. You can bet your last button every single key will involve both of those things, and quite alot of the first.
"Why, I'd say you're getting off light, what with only needing some gold bars. I've heard tell of one sad bunch who needed to get an enchanted gold necklace hidden away somewhere in the monster preserve. By the time they found it and got back, the gate wanted a golden magic staff! HA!" he trails off in laughter for a few moments.
"Yes, well . . . whatever you'd like me to do, I can do. Seek the key again? Whatever you like."
About one hour has passed since you woke and got the news from Troughton.
Juliander Wednesday August 1st, 2007 6:28:54 PM
Juliander watches with hope, and is disappointed at the failure of the scroll. "Looks like we'll have to do this the hard way. If we have teleport spells ready, we should get moving on this."
Arien Wednesday August 1st, 2007 7:04:34 PM
"I sure wish we knew this before we spent all that money." Arien says sourly looking at the portal. Arien shrugs and returns through his spell portal for a bite of something to eat.
Draax Wednesday August 1st, 2007 10:25:19 PM
Draax looks at the results of the spell from the scroll and shrugs his shoulders. "I guess we have to do one of the other options."
Unable to teleport or talk to Arrak, Draax takes a sit and hopes the group will have better luck with the other options.
Monthor Wednesday August 1st, 2007 10:34:03 PM
Monthor says a couple of curse words when the scroll is unsuccessful. He takes a few breaths and turns toward the group. "OK, I guess Arrak is the next option. Someone contact him and see if he has any bars he can spare. Tell him we will pay him back when we get back."
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] Wednesday August 1st, 2007 11:08:59 PM
Lumi is in complete agreement with Draax. Wtih the limited options, it looks like the spellcasters will have to make the arrangements to get the gold.
"I think this Arrak person sounds like the best option." It is a throw-away kind of comment, but the white wemic hopes that action is taken to avoid what Troughton said COULD happen.
Tratain Thursday August 2nd, 2007 12:22:25 AM
Tratain says "Hrmm I think the fastest way would be for me to recall back to our house in the City, Visit the catacombs and then Recall back here, it shouldn't take too long"
Decisions Thursday August 2nd, 2007 5:02:15 PM
The group is dejected at the scroll's failure to open the gate. Discussion ensures, and there seem to be two choices prevailing: either talk to Arrak, or return quickly to Plateau City.
Troughton sits quietly and watches the goings-on, occasionally writing a few notes in his book.
---------------------------------- OOC: if possible, choose one of the options by tomorrow so I can start you down whichever road you choose. I want to get you into some action before too long.
Jova Thursday August 2nd, 2007 6:58:22 PM
Since Tratain was the designated leader, and he picks recalling, Jova nods in affirmation.
"Get to it then."
Horvis Thursday August 2nd, 2007 9:18:06 PM
The giant eagle moves closer to his companions since it seems that they will be travelling soon.
"I can sell my items, if need be. Or someone else can do it."
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] d20+14=23 d20+14=32 d20+14=29 Thursday August 2nd, 2007 9:48:21 PM
"Right!" exclaims Lumi, tail lashing at the knowledge a decision has been made. "The cleric of Tomi returns to the City to gather the gold."
"If you need, I will stay here and prrrotect Troughton until Tratain's return."
If, however, the cleric suggests that the group stick together, Lumi is willing to follow orders.
(Spot:23, Listen:32, Survival:29)
Monthor Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:00:52 AM
"Me stay and guard the little guy also."
Juliander Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:03:20 AM
Juliander stands aside, waiting patiently as Tratain makes a decision. He is ready to support the group either way.
Draax Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:03:50 AM
Draax positions his gear to make it comfortable for him to relax on, "No need for everyone to go, so I will stay here too."
Arien Friday August 3rd, 2007 3:45:50 AM
"I can keep us comfortable here while we wait for whomever goes to fetch the gold, so I will stay here as well."
Tratain Friday August 3rd, 2007 7:32:46 AM
Tratain says "Ok, Jova, Juliander and Horvis can come with me to the City to buy the Gold. The rest of you stay here, we'll be back soon."
Tratain gathers up the three people he mentioned and casts Word of Recall bringing the 4 back to the partys house in Plataue City.
OOC: Could we handle the Transaction through e-Mails, it'll be alot faster than waiting on the actual catacombs I think
Back Home Friday August 3rd, 2007 2:32:58 PM
OOC: absolutely, we'll keep moving Monday assuming the bars were obtained and deal with the rest via email.
As part of the group settles in to await the travelers, Tratain, Jova, Juliander and Horvis stand together as Tratain speaks the word to send them back to Plateau City. Suddenly, in a brilliant flash of light, the four disappear from sight.
"Whoa!" yelps Troughton excitedly. Settling back down, he fishes around in his oversized pack, and pulls out another bottle of wine, uncorking it and offering it around before taking a swig himself.
It is still mid-morning, and the day is clear and bright. But, with the queasy feeling that won't seem to go away, and the sickly coloration of what little grass is nearby, it's hard to feel comfortable or happy waiting around the gate.
---------------------------------- Meanwhile, in Plateau City -
The four travelers appear instantly in the common room of the Plateau City house. You hear a woman scream, then breath a sigh of relief.
"All the commotion 'round here lately, I've been rather more jumpy than usual, masters. "Scuse a old woman," says Hmargret as she walks by with a broom in hand.
The house is still a bit disheveled, though it looks far more orderly than it did at your last visit. Hmargret must have been working hard the last few days to clean it up.
Moving quickly, the group heads for the Catacombs and makes the transaction, coming away with a large chest full of gold bars, which is even heavier than one would expect.
By early afternoon, you are ready to begin your journey back to the portal.
Draax Monday August 6th, 2007 1:26:51 AM
Draax continues to sit in a comfortable position, but although he looks calm on the outside, he is very wary and keeps his eyes moving as he scans the area.
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] d20=14 Monday August 6th, 2007 10:54:28 AM
Lumi spends the day circling the camp looking for any sign, taking his time (taking 20) since time is all he has. (Survival: 34)
He spends the rest of the day trying to ward off the sick feeling in the center of his stomach by speaking with the Harmaa Ritari, telling them of the dangers and people of the Ice Vien (isolated villages of hunters) and introducing the ones left to guard the camp to his companion, the owl Tarhapollo. In most of the stories, the Sne Kempje (frozen dead) and the mighty mountain of Burfells figures prominently, recounting feats of heroism for Lumi and past companions.
Since the owl doesn't seem to bring any food for himself back from his hunting trips, Lumi lets some carefully preserved meats soak in a briny water before feeding tidbits to the snowy owl.
sense motive DC 14 vs Lumi's Bluff Highlight to display spoiler: {In all his conversations, the white liontaur avoids any mention of family or other liontaurs in the Ice Vien. }
Horvis Monday August 6th, 2007 2:38:15 PM
The shifter changed back into his original form for the trip to and from Plateau City. If nothing else, someone needs to be there to carry the gold back.
If necessary, Horvis will sell two of his Tear's to cover the cost of the gold and enchantment.
Tratain Monday August 6th, 2007 4:58:36 PM
Tratain walks with those who came with him to the catacombs and purchases the Gold bars. He tells the store clerk that he needs an enchantment put on all of the bars such as continual flame and how much that will cost. Once done with the purchase Tratain will cast Windwalk on the group so that they may fly back to the portal quickly.
DM OOC Monday August 6th, 2007 5:03:30 PM
Hey guys,
Not many posts since Friday's, and nothing on how the travelers are getting back, so I'm going to wait until tomorrow to post the new turn (I'll try to check back tonight to see if anything new is posted).
Juliander Monday August 6th, 2007 8:01:23 PM
Assisting as best he can with the transactions at hand, Juliander is otherwise silent during the trip. He is clearly anxious to get back to the portal, so they may continue their journey. When Tratain casts wind walk to transport them back, the bard nods his agreement with the spell selection.
Back to the Gate Monday August 6th, 2007 8:14:02 PM
[must have posted right after Tratain]
Once the bars are purchased, the group gets together and divides the gold bars between them, with Horvis unfortunately taking the majority of the load.
Casting wind walk once more, Tratain causes the four travelers to float into the air, appearing to be near-insubstantial misty clouds. You experience much the same sensations as before, streaking across the hills and fields until the valley comes into view again.
This time, knowing exactly where you are going, it is a relatively quick trip getting back to the group, taking only a few hours.
Those waiting at the gate experience a quickening in the wind, followed by your four comrades setting down nearby, laden with shining gold bars.
Troughton springs to his feet. Not allowing the four even a chance to rest, he exclaims, "Finally! Get the bars over to the gate. Stack them just inside the columns. Hurry! Are they enchanted yet? Arien, can you cast a spell on them to be sure?" He certainly appears quite giddy with excitement, and a bit nervous.
"Everyone prepare. You'll only have a moment when the gate opens, and the gods only know what will be on the other side. You're staying to protect me, right?" he says to Izen as an afterthought.
Izen nods, a sad look on his face, then rushes to help unladen the travelers and stack the bars inside the gate.
Jova Tuesday August 7th, 2007 2:01:31 AM
Jova had left the phantom ghostly steed with Z to watch over as he had returned to the city with Tratain.
Upon returning, he leaps on the horse and moves to the gate, as instructed by Troughton. Z rests on his shoulder.
Draax Tuesday August 7th, 2007 2:38:01 AM
Draax readies his sword and shield as he gets ready to go through the portal. If the portal opens, he will activates his Endure Element tattoo just before he jumps through. If nothing is waiting for them on the other side of the portal, Draax will move out of the way of the members behind him and stay on guard until everyone is through.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=20 d20+14=30 Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:00:41 AM
As the wind whips the grasses, Lumi is up and alert, both pleased and a bit apprehensive about the quick return of Tratain and the others. If he had shown any hesitancy of their arrival, the large Lumi is quick to help carry the gold bars to the columns and stack them up where Troughton has indicated.
Lumi takes a moment to move over to the small halfling that is staying in the sickly fields. "Izen", he says in his pleasant baritone, "It is always easier to go forth and seek danger than wait at the hearthfire. And yet without those defenders, the hunters would have nowhere to return. You are a brave Ritari to stay behind." A quick nod, and Lumi-Juova turns to the gate.
Emulating Draax, the tiger-striped wemic ensures his pack is strapped tightly to his broad back, and the rest of his euqipment is battle-ready. Unsheathing his hand-and-a-half sword and the dull gray axe, Lumi flanks Draax to the left.
Giving an eye to Monthor, the wemic explains his reasons. "I will follow Draax and immediately go left to protect his one flank. He will need another warrior to move to the right."
He then flicks an ear towards Tratain to ensure himself that the BattleLeader agrees. (Spot:20, Listen:30)
Monthor Tuesday August 7th, 2007 12:00:49 PM
Monthor moves to Draax's right... ".. That would be me... "
Portal to Fae Skiemir Tuesday August 7th, 2007 6:24:36 PM
The enchanted gold bars are stacked carefully inside the portal [ooc: I missed where Tratain requested they be enchanted when purchased]. Given the amount of gold, the stack is quite high, well over Troughton's head. THe short man whistles as he looks over the finished product, but quickly jumps back as a light humming comes from the pillars.
As you watch, the two side pillars begin vibrating slightly, then moreso after a few more moments. The humming becomes louder and louder, then turns into a loud, high-pitched scream, as if the wind were whipping past your ears at a trememdous speed. The air around you begins to shimmer and sparkle.
Suddenly, a tiny ball of light explodes above the gold, as if the very sun had blown up, but been contained within some sort of cage. The ball is so bright you are forced to avert your eyes until it dims, and once you can look back, the gold is gone, replaced by the slowly turning, shining ball. The screeching sound gets louder, and the ball begins to shake.
In a fraction of a second, the ball increases to the size of the portal itself, and seems to explode outward from the opening, nearly enveloping Draax, Lumi and Monthor, before suddenly imploding on itself and ballooning out of the other side.
After a few reverberations and rebounds, the light settles inside the gate, and fades to the intensity of a bright, shadeless day. The screeching dies to a hum, then disappears completely.
You can see glimpses of branches and leaves through the light, which are definitely not present on the other side of the stone pillars. THe glimpses are fleeting, as if the light were opaque in places, and shifting its composition every so often.
. . . here a leaf blows in an unfelt wind . . . there a branch sags as if a bird had landed on it out of sight . . . here the sound of twigs snapping . . . there the trill of a small squirrel running by unseen . . .
"By all the gods, it actually worked . . . ." breaths Troughton. Pulling himself together, he says, "I mean . . . of course! You see! Troughton Burke never fails when he sets himself to task! HA!"
Becoming more somber, he continues, "I guess this is where we part. I hope a few of you return to give me your tale." With a very inept salute, he says, "Good luck, sirs. You'll need it. . . . Now you've got about five minutes before this thing closes and we start all over. Get to it!"
OOC: do whatever you want to do within five minutes, and give me an order of who enters the gate first, second, etc. The gate is wide enough to go 2 by 2, except for Horvis and Lumi, who are a bit too wide.
Juliander Tuesday August 7th, 2007 8:48:00 PM
Juliander's eyes widen as the gate opens, the magical display causing him to blink and twitch as it expands and contracts. Once the gate has settled however, he remembers that they have business just past, so drawing his crossbow and loading it he announces, "I'll take up the rear guard. Lets get moving on friends."
Lumi-Juova (AC 26, 30 vs AOO, HP 124/124) d20+14=27 d20+14=34 Tuesday August 7th, 2007 8:54:26 PM
The great liontaur will blink away the sparkles from his eyes, and then give a stutter step, catching himself leaping towards the gate. Bringing a bit of self-control on himself, Lumi casts endure elements, then waits until Draax enters the gated area.
Then the white wemic leaps after the knight, stepping immediately to the left and moving on 15 more feet (50 foot movement) to allow the other Ritari to follow. He scans the area around thier entrance intently, looking for any dangers to his companions. (Listen:27, Spot: nat 20!)
The white owl, Tarhapollo, keeps tight hold of the pillion on the liontaur's back, fluffing his feathers against the sudden movement.
Horvis Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:05:05 PM
The centaur follows the liontaur through the gate. Years of wandering have lead Horvis to be somewhat cautious, so keeping Lumi-Juova in front of him and probably between danger and himself, is the smartest option.
Horvis doesn't shift, not knowing what the portal might do if he were in another shape.
Draax Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:31:23 PM
As soon as the portal opens, Draax is the first one through. He has his sword and shield raised; ready to defend himself and those behind him. Once on the other side, if there is room and nothing hostile in the area, Draax will move 15 feet forward and stay in a full defensive manner until everyone comes through.
Jova Wednesday August 8th, 2007 3:52:56 AM
Jova waits while the warriors go first. Then Horvis. Juliander wants rear guard, so Jova spurs his horse into motion following the centaur. He goes through the portal, veering to the right as they come out, roughly 30 feet. There he is prepared to cast a spell if need be.
CDM Jerry Wednesday August 8th, 2007 7:10:45 AM
Ok, CDM not so happy here. 2nd week in a row friends with no report. No post from Tratain since Monday. You ok Joe? Email me the report please and let me know if I can help.
Dragon games need to set the example folks. Let's get in the habit please.
Arien Wednesday August 8th, 2007 10:21:06 AM
Arien watches solemnly as the portal opens, there would be no turning back at this point. Arien takes a quick moment to mentally catalog all his gear, then deciding that he was as ready as he was going to get, follows Draax through the portal. On the other side of the portal Arien crouches slightly, spidering sideways and watches for activity as the others come through the portal.
Tratain Wednesday August 8th, 2007 12:57:41 PM
When the portal opens Tratain says "Monthor and Draax go through first, I'll follow then everyone else. I'm not sure if there will be trouble as soon as we pass through the gate but be prepared for it."
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