Brother Bertram d20+8=27 Friday April 18th, 2008 7:12:09 AM
Bertram tries to detect if any of the creatures coming are undead. If so he will try to drive them from the area.
(Turn Undead(if detected) Rolled 27)
Lian Friday April 18th, 2008 12:58:29 PM
OOC: May post later.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR d20+22=33 d20+17=21 d20+2=15 d8+2=5 Friday April 18th, 2008 1:11:18 PM
Olana blinks, startled, this time getting hit by the ray. Another one like that and she will not be able to pull back her bow string. She continues to fire.
Hit once for 5
DM Jan d8=3 d20+12=14 d20+12=23 d20+12=21 d20+18=32 d20+18=23 2d8(3+3)+4=10 2d8(6+2)+4=12 d6+1=2 Friday April 18th, 2008 1:40:53 PM
Rolls...
The fight with the monster intensifies!
Ingrge, Gunther and Athalorn get to the rear of the creature (Ath on the ground, the other two airborne?). All three notice that the beholder has a thick length of chain embedded in its flesh that reaches to a metal ring in the tunnel floor, effectively tying it to the ground. The druid shifts shape, Ingrge sends his delayed spell off down the passge ahead.
Meanwhile! At the front of the beast, things start getting a little crazy, as both Lian and K'Nara move forward, closely followed by about 300 tons of orc. Lian hits the thing like a battering ram, successfully damaging two of the creature's eyes, while K'Nara connects with her sword. But it's a risky business, as their efforts are shared by both Falin's and Olana's arrows and about 6 or 7 spears hurled forth by the orc contingent, that all flash by, threatening to impale them to the beast.
Hurt badly, the creature roars, and opens up a mouth the size of the Giggling Ghost fireplace, displaying a rather impressive set of teeth. Naturally it tries to bite both Lian and K'Nara at once. CHOMP!
Attempting to chow down on Lian AC 32 for 10 DAM + Poison K'Nara AC 23 for 12 DAM + Poison
It's remaining eyes are all now angled toward the rear and go off simultaneously. However, only three of them are in any position to hit their targets, again ranged touch attacks going for
Athalorn AC 14 Gunther AC 23 Ingrge AC 21
-2 STR drain if hit, same SR as before if applicable.
The small green toad is sat on top of the beholder's head, lashing out with it's tongue at the three at the rear, with a decidedly 'C'mon! Bring it!' attitude.
Bert's attention toward the approaching creatures tells him they're all alive and kicking. Although Ath, Gunther and Ingrge could tell him they are not kicking exactly, but rather flying - the partial shadow of the tunnel ahead revealing great bat-like creatures with a wing span of about 6 ft and closing (now 40 ft away). And with all the shrieking coming from that direction it sounds to be rather a lot of them.
Brother Bertram AC 28 HP 134 d8=6 d8=8 d8=7 d8=2 d8=3 d8=7 d8=8 d8=7 Friday April 18th, 2008 3:50:03 PM
Bertram calls out, "No Undead, Ingrge!, and then sends a ray of light directly at the green creature atop the beholder's head.
(OOC Searing Light No Save(Resistance applies) 48 Damage)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+16=29 Friday April 18th, 2008 5:06:29 PM
Finishing his spell, a wall of stone suddenly fills the entire hallway just 10 feet past where Ingrge is, separating the party from the oncoming flying beasts and the expolsion about to come. Ingrge spell is enough to also make the wall 10 inches thick.
Just as the wall is finished and he is pretty sure the flyers were about to reach the wall he triggers his maximized delayed blast fireball as everyone hears and feels the loud thwump. (Surprise!!!)
Max Delayed Blast Fireball - 84 points; Reflex DC 30 for 42 points; SR 29 negates.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 185 d20+14=31 d20+14=16 d20+14=32 d20+14=21 d20+14=28 d20+14=21 d20+14=32 d20+14=15 d20+14=28 d20+14=31 d20+14=27 d20+14=25 2d8(8+4)+4=16 2d8(8+4)+4=16 2d8(8+6)+4=18 2d8(1+7)+4=12 2d8(5+1)+4=10 2d8(5+1)+4=10 2d8(1+8)+4=13 2d8(3+2)+4=9 Friday April 18th, 2008 5:51:06 PM
Athalorn's huge new form writhes in anger at the strange beast's continued attacks, as the shifter suffers a further drain to his strength. His twelve serpent heads snap dangerously at the Beholder's strange body, their power weakened somewhat by the beholder's draining rays.
If the creature's AC is 25... Eight of the heads manage to find purchase on the blubbery flesh, each one tearing and pulling in an attempt to fell the abherration.
Head 1 hits AC 31 for 16 damage Head 2 hits AC 16 and misses Head 3 hits AC 32 for 16 damage Head 4 hits AC 21 and misses Head 5 hits AC 28 for 18 damage Head 6 hits AC 21 and misses Head 7 hits AC 32 for 12 damage Head 8 hits AC 15 and misses Head 9 hits AC 28 for 10 damage Head 10 hits AC 31 for 10 damage Head 11 hits AC 27 for 13 damage Head 12 hits AC 25 for 9 damage
8 hits (if creature's AC is 25) for total of 104 damage
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Lian d20+21=30 d20+21=23 d20+21=31 d20+21=41 d20+21=23 d20+21=30 d20+16=33 2d6(2+5)+6=13 2d6(4+1)+6=11 2d6(1+2)+6=9 2d6(1+1)+6=8 2d6(2+5)+6=13 2d6(3+4)+6=13 2d6(2+2)+6=10 Sunday April 20th, 2008 1:26:59 AM
The monk activates his boots of Speed and pummels away. (+1 dodge AC)
(hits AC 30, 23, 31, 41(threat 23), 30 and 33, for 13, 11, 9, 8(21 if crit), 13 and 10 damage, breaks evil DR)[74 damage, if crit hits 87 damage]
Active Effects: Stoneskin 90mins Bears Endurance Freedom of Movement Blessed Hands Owl's Wisdom Boots 1/10
Highlight to display spoiler: {Lian's AC is reduced by 3 since he started wearing the orc bane tears. No headband. }
Falin AC 29 HP 161 d20+41=58 d8+7=8 Monday April 21st, 2008 12:03:25 AM
Falin watches as everyone comes in to perform close combat and he fires one shot into the fray.
AC 58 DMG 8
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
Stun shot: a successful Stunning Shot inflicts normal damage and stuns the target for one round. A stunned character can't act, loses any Dexterity bonus to AC, and takes a --2 penalty to AC.
Lian Monday April 21st, 2008 12:44:36 PM
OOC: Waiting...
Brother Bertram Monday April 21st, 2008 5:57:15 PM
Bertram squints after the light spell, trying to see if the creature was wounded severely, or if at all.
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance, Fly d20+16=35 d20+16=23 d8+6=13 d6=3 d20+11=31 d20+11=27 d8+6=8 d6=4 d20+6=22 d8+6=10 d6=4 d20+16=22 d8+6=13 d6=4 d20+11=13 d20+6=9 Monday April 21st, 2008 10:12:05 PM
Feeling puny and pathetic after several succesful ray attacks, the warrior attempts a full attack on the beast in front of him, knowing that in full likelihood in his current state he's not likely to hurt a fly. Still...miracles can happen...and apparently do...
AC 35/23 for 13+3 fire (double if crit., please) AC 31/27 for 8+4 fire (double if crit., please) AC22 for 10+4 fire AC22 for 13+4 elect.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Monday April 21st, 2008 10:51:56 PM
present
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR d20+22=31 d20+17=20 d20+12=23 d8+2=8 Monday April 21st, 2008 11:16:24 PM
Olana keeps firing, a grim look on her face. Thankful that the eyes are no longer pointing at her, nevertheless, she worries about those comrades behind the creature.
Hit once 8 Dam
DM Jan Monday April 21st, 2008 11:32:22 PM
Amidst the fight, a wall of stone suddenly appears to the rear of Athalorn, Gunther and Ingrge. It's closely followed by a muffled WHUMP! and the cries of the wounded as something goes off behind it, and the floor shakes.
Meanwhile, Bert's ray of doom obliterates the cheeky toad sat atop the giant beholder, and below it's business as usual as the others get to work. At the rear, Gunther's form is a little shaky but his sword manages to inflict damage, while alongside him the hydra chows down with it's vicious heads, rending and tearing. At the front of the creature, a couple of arrows fly, and the beast appears to be momentarily helpless as blades hacking at it's underbelly do dreadful damage.
In moments, it's over. Some of the orcs go through the motions of being a little put out, having been unable to get a blow in, but they're soon quietened down by the orc mage. Borden merely stands there surveying the damage.
The creature is now dead - a carcass.
Lian's fists have at some point blasted through some of the flesh and he can feel something hard in the beast's innards.
Meanwhile, slightly ahead in the tunnel, there is the occasional thud....... thud..... coming from behind the wall.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 185 Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 1:26:31 AM
Dropping pieces of the creature to the floor from his many mouths, Athalorn turns to face the wall, prepared in case Ingrge drops his spell or the things burst through, whatever they were.
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 6:56:10 AM
Well that was fun. I am pretty sure that I caught some of what was coming at us from the other side with my delayed balst fireball, but there may be quite a few, or none at all left. All I know is that they were flying fairly rapidly. So I guess what am saying is get ready for round two when I drop the wall. Borden do you and your crew want first shot at whatever is on the otherside of the wall?
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 11:21:32 AM
Bertam takes time to make sure that no one is too seriously injured before moving forward.
Lian Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 11:45:20 AM
(OOC: Was Mass Bull's Strength cast earlier? What Mass spells were cast?)
He deactivates his boots.
Keeping in mind that there is something up with the corpse, and not yelling at KNara about it so the orcs don't go to town on it, the monk looks up at the sound. "Its big, whatever it is." He says out loud to no one.
He prepares to cast Enlarge Person. His hands still glow.
Active Effects: Stoneskin 90mins Bears Endurance Freedom of Movement Blessed Hands Owl's Wisdom Boots 1/10
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 10:58:54 PM
Falin moves forwards trying to keep a clear line of fire at anything coming at them.
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance, Fly Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 11:58:32 PM
Gunther looks feebly over at Bertram. "Anyvay you can return my strength?" Then he looks over at the orcs and speaks in Common this time so everyone understands. "Ve don't vant to have all de fun. You vant de next monster?"
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 1:14:19 AM
Olana breathes a sigh of relief as the creature meets its end. What a horrible thing, and no doubt just a taste of what would come next.
She sees Falin advancing and gives him a look that says, hey, don't get too carried away, we'll die a horrible death soon enough.
DM Jan Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 1:19:40 AM
The orcs let out a cheer at the prospect of getting their teeth into some monsters - their mage rolls his eyes, Borden merely smiles.
The muffled sound beyond the wall continues - something savage - trying desperately to get through.
The hard thing inside the beholder corpse - it feels like a flat disc, maybe 12 inches across.
Odd.
Lian Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 1:31:12 PM
The monk quietly lets Ingrge know about the disc in the beholder, then borrows a dagger from one of the Emeralds.
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 3:06:47 PM
Satisfied that everyone is still alive and well, Bertram goes back to the more immediate problem of what to do once the wall is removed. He looks to Ingrge. "I have the necklace of fireballs we recovered ages ago? Any better suggestions, Friend Ingrge?"
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 5:01:02 PM
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
Falin looks back and smiles at Olana.
In response to hearing Bertram Falin mentions that he still has the fire elemental gem.
Athalorn Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 5:14:58 PM
....waits, his many heads ready for combat.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 5:37:50 PM
Ingrge waits until Borden and his crew move to the front arranging themselves how they want for their assault and watches as the Emeralds arrange themselves and then once everyone is ready dismisses the wall with a casual wave of his hand. As they move forward Ingrge will use the wand of restoration on any who need it.
(OOC: Let me know how many charges need to be expelled.)
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance, Fly Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 10:15:53 PM
The warrior sighs. Apparently Bertram cannot restore his strength which was sapped by the rays. Oh well. Watching the orcs surge forward, Gunther manages to stifle his jealousy. Surely he will not be as useful in the future combats but at least he can try. Patting his dire lion, Gunther tries not to let his frustration rub off on her.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR Thursday April 24th, 2008 12:27:48 AM
While everyone talks about the next assault, Olana quickly checks her arrows then walks over to Bertram. "Bert, some of us got hit by those strange rays, and we're feeling a bit.... well... wobbly at the knees. Anything you can do?"
DM Jan Thursday April 24th, 2008 1:43:25 AM
Everyone gears up for the disappearence of the wall. The thudding on the other side has increased dramatically, not in volume, but in frequency, making everyone wonder perhaps what they'll find on the other side.
The orcs give the hydra a wide berth then form up in a wedge shape in front of the wall, spears at the ready.
Lian manages to pull out the disc. It appears to have a depression at the centre that allows him to grip and rotate it, and at either side - flat, square pieces of metal, protruding from the circumference of the thing.
Spot check (DC 20) from everyone please.
Ingrge's wall comes down, and beyond it - a thousand faces let out an angry, deafening screech. Leathery winged terrors all, stacked up, now surging forward.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+18=28 Thursday April 24th, 2008 6:55:01 AM Spell Effects: Cat's Grace; Bear's Endurance; Freedom of Movement; Stoneskin
Rousing herself from her uncharacteristic fugue, K'Nara reaches her left hand into the top of her magical Haversack, drawing out a bag. The leader of the Emerald Dragons rummages through it and pulls out a white ash staff with inlaid silver runes.
"Gunther!" she says, waving the staff. "I can use this to counteract the effects of that nasty old...whatever it was's...rays." K'Nara extends the hand with the staff in it, tapping Gunther on the shoulder.
OOC: made a Use Magic Item check of 28 to use this Staff of Healing. Gunther's player needs to roll a d4 PER CHARGE to see how many points of Strength are Restored by the Staff--K'Nara will definitely use as many charges as are needed to completely Restore Gunther to fighting trim.
Oh...and sorry about the extremely late posts. Life surely can suck.
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance, Fly d4=2 d4=4 d20+3=9 Thursday April 24th, 2008 9:31:13 AM
Gunther grins as K'nara ministers to him. "Tank you!" he says as he flexes his newly returned muscles. "Dat should even tings up."
Gunther looks over at the winged menaces beyond but can't see anything out of the ordinary...whatever that is in this place!
OOC: Jan, can I pretty pretty please have 2 charges of that wand since Donna wasn't able to post yesterday?
~~Jan~~Yeth yu cannn~~
Lian Thursday April 24th, 2008 11:51:51 AM
(OOC: About how big is the disc?)
He stows the disc in his tunic, not sure if putting it into an extradimensional pants pocket is safe, then he rejoins the group... he hears the screeches. Disc looks like a clockwork gear of some sort. He thinks to himself.
Falin AC 29 HP 161 d20+26=46 Thursday April 24th, 2008 2:24:51 PM
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
Spot 46 (nat 20)
"Why did we come down here? Someone remind me?" Falin says with a smile as he watches the littel creatures surge forward.
"Can someone do some type of an area affect to them? I have nothing."
"Olana, I have an idea. Come grab the other side of this." Falin pulls his portable hole out and begins to unfold it handing the other side to Olana.
"As the surge forward we move forward and then fold them up inside of it."
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 185 d20+25=30 Thursday April 24th, 2008 3:10:48 PM
The druid move sin front of hos companions, trying not to block Ingrge's line of sight nut hoping the creatures will attack him first.
ooc: not sure if I would get attacks this round?
Spot check: 30
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+17=34 Thursday April 24th, 2008 6:13:39 PM
Qickly casting Ingrge figures to lend a little hand with this combat and casts wind wall where the wall of stone one was. Sr 34
Brother Bertram Thursday April 24th, 2008 8:57:39 PM
Bertram readies some spells in his mind, waiting to see if Ingrge requires assistance, not wanting to disturb his friend's plan.
"Why, Falin," K'Nara says as she crosses over to Athalorn's behemoth-sized shape, "We're here to be good neighbors!" She glances back over at what's left of the Siamese Beholders. "Of course...there goes the neighborhood!" She taps Athalorn with the Staff of Healing.
OOC: K'Nara's Spot check is 6; her Use Magic Item check is 35 and she's just used another charge in the Staff to return 4 Strength points to Athalorn.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR d20+15=16 Friday April 25th, 2008 10:41:46 AM
Looking at Falin like he's nuts, Olana nevertheless grabs the other side of the hole. She has to admit, her weapons of blade and arrow would be useless against these things.
DM Jan d4=4 Friday April 25th, 2008 11:12:54 AM
Bats. Hundreds, maybe thousands, ranging from the tiny pipistrelle to fruit-bat sized (bodies ranging from 3" to 14"). And being country folk, most will have seen bats plenty of times before. But these look different - larger mouths, and long, needle-like fangs, and they approach on a wave of dread that is astonishing in its severity.
The windwall goes up! The little ones are stopped, but some of the big ones start squeezing through. Three end up in the portable hole, but there are more coming through at a rate of 8 per round, and this round the remaining 5 head up toward the ceiling, wheeling, maybe awaiting their bretheren.
An entire wall of bats now faces the group, most held back by the wind wall spell, little horrific faces twitching, wings flapping, and the noise - a collective deafening screech making it hard for anyone to make themselves heard.
Both Falin and Athalorn spotted a circular depression and a glint of metal in the wall to the left, right before it was covered by bats, ie. it is about 3ft beyond the wind wall.
Everyone Will save DC 20 or be paniced for 4 rounds. (Same panic reaction as with dragons frightful presence).
((OOC - Jay, about 12"))
((OOC - folks, the site is going down for maintenance this weekend. So if you can't get in, you know why. Shouldn't take long by all accounts.))
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 185 d20+23=35 d4=1 d20+15=27 d20+15=18 d20+15=20 d20+15=25 d20+15=26 d20+15=22 d20+15=32 d20+15=21 d20+15=35 d20+15=24 d20+15=21 d20+15=22 2d8(5+8)+5=18 2d8(8+7)+5=20 2d8(3+8)+5=16 2d8(5+4)+5=14 2d8(5+4)+5=14 2d8(3+1)+5=9 2d8(3+2)+5=10 2d8(6+1)+5=12 2d8(6+3)+5=14 2d8(4+2)+5=11 2d8(3+2)+5=10 2d8(1+5)+5=11 Friday April 25th, 2008 12:19:23 PM Will save 35, healed 1 point of strength
Unafraid of the strange creatures, the Huge Hydra's strange and serpentine voice begins to emanate from all 12 heads at once, creating an echo like repetition of his words.
"A strange fixture in the wall.... Lian, would that disssssc sssslot into it?"
His heads then begin snapping at the few bats that come through.
Heads hit: AC 27 for 18 HP AC 18 for 20 HP AC 20 for 16 HP AC 25 for 14 HP AC 22 for 9 HP AC 32 for 10 HP AC 21 for 12 HP AC 35 for 28 HP (Critical) AC 24 for 11 HP AC 21 for 10 HP AC 22 for 11 HP
(Sorry Jan :|)
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Brother Bertram d20+17=20 15d8(1+3+7+1+5+8+8+5+8+3+1+6+1+8+4)=69 Friday April 25th, 2008 1:13:29 PM
Bertram swallows the panic of seeing that many bats coming at him. He quickly releases a spell to work in conjunction with Ingrge's spell. A whirling sheet of steel blades fills the area chopping up anything foolish enough to enter.
(OOC Blade Barrier 69 Hp Damage to any in the area or that attempt to come through. )
Lian d20+26=27 d20+30=47 Friday April 25th, 2008 2:09:32 PM
(Save Nat 1 for 27 failing, laughing gives him a second roll and +4 vs fear. Saved with 47.)
Everyone within 50 feet of Lian gain +2 vs fear.
Lian begins laughing and shakes off the effects. "Yeah maybe Athalorn." The monk heads to the wall and tries the disc in the slot.
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance, Fly d20+8=16 Friday April 25th, 2008 11:57:28 PM
Covering his ears from the horrid sound, Gunther begins to panic. He rapidly heads backwards in an attempt to get away from those horrible screeching things. (Will=16)
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+14=21 Saturday April 26th, 2008 2:51:41 AM Spell Effects: Cat's Grace; Bear's Endurance; Freedom of Movement; Stoneskin
K'Nara gulps at the sight of the living wall of bats trying to get to the group, but her spirit, though shaken, doesn't falter. OOC: K'Nara barely made her Will save with a 21. Snarling an expletive in Elven, K'Nara returns the staff she'd been using to the haversack.
"We can't hear ourselves think!" she gripes, then blinks...then a grin steals across her face.
"If we can't hear--then they won't hear, either..." the blade singer says, using her free hand to help her cast Silence in the area just beyond Ingrge's Wind Wall.
OOC: K'Nara is casting the spell on a point in space, calculated so that the zone of soundlessness is beyond the barrier that is the Wind Wall--the party should be uneffected...as long as they remain on their side of Ingrge's spell.
Lian Monday April 28th, 2008 11:34:58 AM
OOC: Checking in...
Brother Bertram Monday April 28th, 2008 1:02:46 PM
Bertram sees Gunther fleeing and calls out in a roar, "Blood Brother Gunther, I NEED YOU!" He knows he cant physically stop the warrior but hope that his cry will pierce the fear surrounding him.
Falin AC 29 HP 161 d20+6=13 d20+6=23 Monday April 28th, 2008 2:24:26 PM
Falin folds the hole up to keep the bats from getting back out. and places it in his pocket. "They willk die from lack of air soon enough." He tells Olana.
Will save 23 (used hero point)
Falin begins to turn from the bats, but then gethers himself up and turns back to face the coming wall of bats.
Falin sees the fear take Gunther as he moves from the front of the group. Quickly Falin takes out an immovable rod and sets it directly in front of Gunther's center mass in an attempt to stop him from running too far.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+17=18 d20+17=35 15d4(4+3+4+3+1+3+3+2+2+3+1+1+1+2+3)=36 d20+17=26 Monday April 28th, 2008 7:31:43 PM
Ingrge begins to panic a bit as the emormity of the number of bats facing them sinks in Will save 18, but hears Lian's laughter and manages to recover fairly rapidly. Reroll used hero point Will save 35
Hoping that the orcs are actually oing to do something about the bats making it through the wall Ingrge focuses again on the ones trapped on the otherside of the windwall and cast a spell and sets the spell to catch the most bats he can within his 40 ft circle of death.
Circle of death - Fort DC 25 SR26 or 36 hit dice of bats die.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Monday April 28th, 2008 10:19:34 PM Spell Effects: Cat's Grace; Bear's Endurance; Freedom of Movement; Stoneskin
"Gunther!" K'Nara snaps. "Get BACK here!"
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 -7 STR d20+12=32 Monday April 28th, 2008 11:00:53 PM Ugh... Olana is thinking as they are beseiged by the strangest and most awful bats she has ever seen. Their aura appears to wash over her; maybe it's because she's focussing on catching some of them with the portable hole. Or maybe it's some of her past experiences reminding her that this really isn't that bad.
She takes a step back as Falin retracts the hole. Looking at that whirling blade barrier, they were liable to get covered in goo if they weren't careful.
She pulls out a shortsword, in case one of the bigger ones comes close.
DM Jan d100=94 d20+16=31 d20+16=35 d20+16=23 Monday April 28th, 2008 11:15:06 PM
Rolls....
.....acid for blood....
Athalorn's formidable hydra form snatches 4 of the loose 5 big bats out of the air and bites them in two. They have a bitter taste, acrid and nasty, and it begins to burn.
The bats' aura takes it's toll on some, and Gunther finds himself being flanked by two of his orc bretheren in a break for the exit. In Gunther's path - an immovable rod appears that'll hit him right in the gut and wind him unless he tries to avoid it (Reflex DC 15). Both Borden and his mage lieutenant shrug off the evil effects of the creatures. The other orcs look toward anything else that attempts to get through, although there's hardly room to swing a cat right now.
Then! K'nara's spell comes into effect, along with Lian's reinforcing laughter, the latter girding the will, the former dampening the horrific presence of these things, allowing another Will Save of DC 11 for those who failed.
Up at the wall, Bert's Blade Barrier gets to work, slicing and dicing dozens and dozens of bats and Lian is faced with a problem. If he moves past the windwall without cover, he will be splattered in minced bat goo, and perhaps Athalorn will be able to tell him how that feels. The disc should fit into the slot, though. He just has to make a choice. Right now the blade barrier-pulped creatures are slapping against the walls on either side.
(Any contact between bare flesh and bat blood = 4hp acid burn damage per round. Water will neutralize and stop any more damage.)
Behind the wind wall, Ingrge's spell inflicts terrible damage. An added incendiary spell from the orc mage adds to the carnage, but still the creatures keep on coming. It's endless.
3 more big bats manage to get beyond the blades and attempt to fly up to the ceiling.
The one bat from the last round descends quickly and tries to attack Olana and bite. 23 misses.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 185 2d8(3+3)+5=11 d20+15=28 Tuesday April 29th, 2008 1:40:49 AM
Athalorn uses his huge form to move closer to the Wind wall, hoping to give Lian some cover while he tries to place the disc in the slot. His many heads rear up, trying to avoid the flying bat flesh, and one snaps out and strikes at the bats coming through the wall.
Hits AC 28 for 11 damage
Move Action: Towards the wall Standard Action: Attack bat
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance d20+8=25 d20+9=22 d20+15=24 d8+23=30 Tuesday April 29th, 2008 12:14:38 PM
Hearing the others call to him (and of course, thanks to K'nara's spell!), the warrior is able to snap out of the gut wrenching fear that had a hold of him (Will=25). Noticing the rod in front of him, Gunther deftly dodges it (Refl.=22) as he smiles at Falin. "Tanks."
Reversing his course once more, Gunther flies toward the nearest bat creature on the roof, intent on repairing some of the damage done to his ego. Embarrassment based rage produces a strike that is more powerful than accurate. (Power Attack +5, Hits AC 24 for 30 dam)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+17=35 Tuesday April 29th, 2008 6:14:15 PM
Momentarily changing tactics, Ingrge focusses instead on the bats that are near the ceiling and are grouped close together. Using his rod of maximize her casts a spell trhough his staff aiming athe batt nearest the center of the ones that have gotten through. Maximized chain lightening - 80 points priamry and 40 points to each secondary up to 15 more targets. Reflex DC 29 for 1/2 damage SR 35 negates.
Lian d20+23=36 Tuesday April 29th, 2008 6:30:12 PM (While Lian is laughing everyone within 50 feet gets +2 vs fear.)
He abandons his casting decides to test the slot. He dances through the barrier with the gear in hand, laughing at is and the whole situation. (Reflex 36 vs the Barrier)[If he saves, he take no damage. If he fails he takes half and its further reduced by the Stoneskin.]
(OOC: Not sure how far the slot is away. Also what is the DC is for the Blade Barrier. But as Lian is a Hero and Dragon, this is UNIMPORTANT! Mwah!)
Active Effects: Stoneskin 90mins Bears Endurance Freedom of Movement Blessed Hands Owl's Wisdom Boots 1/10 Lesser Courage
Brother Bertram Tuesday April 29th, 2008 8:13:36 PM
Seeing Olana's condition, Bertram moves to her and releases a spell. A soft glow surrounds her and she appears noticeably better to those around her.
(OOC Restoration)
(( DM Jan OOC)) Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:41:36 AM
((Oww oww, migraine, post first thing tomorrow, I promise. Sorry folks.))
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Wednesday April 30th, 2008 10:40:18 AM I was hoping something would happen to allow me to post. BWAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Falin looks over at Lian making his way towards the indention. He places the portable hole in his pocket and places the immovable rod back in his pack. He moves towards where Lian is in case something should happen and Lian needs any help.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+16=28 d6+3=4 Wednesday April 30th, 2008 11:45:48 AM
"Thank you!" Olana exclaims, pausing for a moment while Bert's spell takes effect. "Isn't this fun?" she adds to the dwarf, before preparing to take one swipe at the bat who's trying to bite.
Hits AC 28 for 4
DM Jan Wednesday April 30th, 2008 12:02:48 PM
Partially shielded by Athalorn (who takes half Lian's dam), Lian leaps nimbly past the blade barrier, and slams the disc into the indentation in the wall.
And illuminated by Ingrge's chain lightning spell - that has everyone's hair standing on end and leaves spots dancing before the eyes....
The wall around the disc dissolves, becoming a 6ft wide arch that stretches from floor to ceiling. And there are steps leading up!
And as fried bats hit the tunnel floor with a thud, and Gunther is patted on the back by one of the orcs for power slicing one of the critters in two, there's probable cause to wonder -
It's gonna be interesting, getting to that arch, what with the blade barrier, flying acidic bat innards, and live bats, an' all...
Lian's already through, and both he and Falin, and Athalorn can see that, at the top of a short flight of steps beyond the arch - there's the disc, set into the wall, like it has transported itself there - out of harms way.
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Wednesday April 30th, 2008 12:25:48 PM
Falin looks backwards and yells to everyone "Up the stairs." He turns back and pulls out his decantur of endless water.
He sets his feet and says the command word. A geyser of water flies forth. He attempts to keep the bats at bay while everyone makes it through. Hopefully some of the water spray will wash the acid off of anyone getting hit.
After everyone is through he will follow up behind walking backwards to continue to keep the water going.
Lian (down 6 hp acid) Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:01:08 PM
The monk places the disc into the slot, if it fits.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 175/185 Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:20:19 PM
Athalorn's many serpentine voices speak at once, hissing to his companions. "Move to the stairsssss, friendsssss. I will cover you...."
He moves so as to block as much of the path as possible while not moving into the way of the blade barrier.
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-9 strength)
Brother Bertram Wednesday April 30th, 2008 3:00:29 PM
Bertram drops the blade barrier as the first person reaches it. He will then follow the others in bringing up the rear, another spell already in his mind, ready to be used as soon as he can reach those stairs.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Wednesday April 30th, 2008 11:16:06 PM
Ingrge follows the others up the stairs waiting to see if he needs to block entry from winged foed.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday May 1st, 2008 4:01:09 AM
K'Nara also makes for the stairs, crinkling her nose at the sight (and smell) of exploded acidic bats.
Lian Thursday May 1st, 2008 12:39:51 PM
The disc hovers in the Hand's hand...
~~Jan~~ Jay, I took your action of a couple of rounds ago, placing the disc in the wall. A little clumsy but I need to keep it moving. That and I'm running out of bats. :)
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Thursday May 1st, 2008 10:18:23 PM
The warrior and his dire lion bolt up the stairs after his comrades. He's not quite certain whether to be excited or frightened of future combat.
Lian Friday May 2nd, 2008 6:49:21 PM
OOC: Checking in and waiting for DM to catch up and run out of bats. :)
Brother Bertram Friday May 2nd, 2008 8:03:05 PM
Bertram bats at the bats as they bat thier wings in his battered face.
(OOC Checking in ;))
K'Nara Friday May 2nd, 2008 8:15:59 PM OOC: checking in as well.
Athalorn Saturday May 3rd, 2008 6:07:05 AM
Checking in
DM Jan Monday May 5th, 2008 1:14:55 AM
((OOC - sorry about the late post folks! I blame Iron Man!) Just hadta go see it.)
"In twos, and orderly!" yells Borden, as the archway appears and the group's escape route becomes evident. The blade barrier winks out - and the hydra stands to block flying critters as everyone makes a dash for the stairs. No one gets any acid damage this round thanks to Falin's geyser of water.
Everyone is now beyond the wind wall and vulnerable to whatever lies behind it. Bats flit everywhere, and the stairwell is in danger of being filled with them, along with everyone else. Down the main tunnel, there is a distant thud thud thuds, coming closer.
Can the archway be re-closed?
On the stairwell, torches highlight the wall with the embedded disc in the wall at the top of the steps, and there's a 90 degree left turn and more stairs leading up.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 175/185 Monday May 5th, 2008 2:52:45 AM
The hydra remains at the rear of the party, making sure as few of the bats as possible get past him while the others try and close the entrance.
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-8 strength)
Gunther AC 33, HP137/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance d100=37 d20-13=-9 d20+15=28 Monday May 5th, 2008 11:00:50 AM
Hanging back, the warrior stays behind the hydra, forming another line of defense against the bats and making sure that Athalorn has help getting through the portal.
Lian Monday May 5th, 2008 12:42:54 PM
The hand stands where he is and waits, providing some form of bat removal, but never really making a dent in the thick cloud of acidic flying mammals.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+9=18 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 8:07:27 PM
Moving up the stairwell, Ingrge sees the silver disc in the wall.
" I suspect that once we are all in and safe someone ought to remove that from the wall (voluntary Intelligence roll DC 18. Hopefully that should close the passage. If not then I will close it with a spell."
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Monday May 5th, 2008 11:55:52 PM
"Good idea, Ingrge!" K'Nara says, immediately heading over to the area with the disc. "Everybody, move!!! I'll yank this thing as soon as everyone is through the stairway and up top!!!"
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 6th, 2008 7:44:06 AM
Bertram moves along quickly with the others, ready to assist if needed.
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Tuesday May 6th, 2008 7:55:57 AM
Falin cancels the geyser and places the flask back in his pack. He quickly makes his way up the stairs and turns to see what will happen with door.
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday May 6th, 2008 11:46:18 AM
Olana makes a mad dash for the archway, hoping she isn't trampled by orcs on the way.
DM Jan Tuesday May 6th, 2008 12:11:21 PM
There's a mad rush and a lot of shoving and pushing as everyone heads for the archway and the stairwell. Down the tunnel, the thud, thud, thudding continues, like the footsteps of some great beast, getting closer by the moment. Athalorn, Gunther and Lian get a glimpse of a huge head - maw open wide, with a long, protruding tongue - before it's time to get beyond the archway and hopefully out of danger.
K'nara finds the disc easy to pull out of the indentation in the wall at the top of the steps, and once everyone is through, and she does so, the archway solidifies, becoming a solid wall.
The ground shakes, and beyond the now closed wall, those footsteps, and presumably the monster they belong to are closer and closer and closer - then they stop. There's a "RAAAAAAAOOOOOOOWWWWW!" that reverberates through the walls. Then the mighty footsteps begin again, and gradually recede.
The stairwell is cramped - packed tight with the Dragons, Borden, and thirty assorted orcs. Pikes graze the ceiling, everyone is wet to some degree and steam rises from the shoulders of some of the orcs, bringing forth the scent of orc and boiled leather. Adding to the mix - acid burned hydra, human and elf flesh - acrid and tickling at the nostrils.
With everyone crammed in it's hard to see, although torch light does reveal that a few bats have made it through and are flittering about near the ceiling. Some of the orcs begin to stab at them with their pikes.
Athalorn, Lian and Gunther have sustained another 4 HPs acid damage, minor but it will need patching up.
At the top of the stairwell - a solid wall. The indentation has disappeared.
And to the left - the stairs continue - up. No light, other than a distant glow ahead.
The Dragons hear the sound of Milo in the earpiece - "Hello? Hello? Anyone there?"
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 171/185 Tuesday May 6th, 2008 12:47:23 PM
Athalorn remains at the rear of the party and follows slowly, bending his many heads to avoid the ceiling. As he hears Milo's voice, he allows the others to communicate, sensing that perhaps the rogue would be more than a little perturbed at the sound of twelve serpentine voices in his ear.
Lian Tuesday May 6th, 2008 3:56:45 PM
OOC: Okay friends, I'll be away from a computer for an indetermined length of time starting at 2pm PST tomorrow afternoon. I'll try to find an internet cafe over there to look in from time to time.
[Can't remember if Lian grabbed his Continual Flame marbles, which would come in handy right about now.]
The elf suggests that someone move into the stairwell to search for traps or dangers.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Tuesday May 6th, 2008 8:14:21 PM
K'Nara--now at the rear of the entire retinue of combined forces--suppresses a sigh at the disorderly rush for the stairs (though with the way the ground is shaking at the footsteps of the unseen "new arrival" she can't really be angry...just a bit disappointed. However, all's well that ends well as long as none of their people got hurt by whatever-that-thing-had-been.
"Milo, my love..." coos the redheaded blade singer into her own communication device, "...it's been ever so long since you called. How's the weather? I hope you picked up some souveniers..."
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 6th, 2008 9:01:00 PM
Bertram hands the bullseye lantern he empowered with the eternal light of Domi to whoever is in the front, hoping it will help, well, shed some light on things.
(OOC Jan I cast that Continual Flame spell on that Lantern early in this module, just wasnt sure if you recalled.)
(~~Jan~~ Yep, no worries, Mark. It's just the current press of bodies, the light has no where to go, so the above move was the right one.)
Falin AC 29 HP 161 Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:32:18 AM
Spells: Freedom of Movement Stoneskin 90 Bears Endurance (Magikal Con 15) Bulls Strength (Magikal Str 11)
I am not sure if we still have the same pecking order. If so then I am back up front.
Falin makes his way up the stairs, but holds off waiting for someone to check for any traps.
He smiles when he hears Milo come across the channel. "Good to hear from you Milo," says Falin, "How's about you come on down here and check these stairs for traps."
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+15=23 ; Wednesday May 7th, 2008 4:16:08 PM
Olana takes Bert's lantern and pushes her way to the front. She smiles hearing Milo's voice.
Spot 23
DM Jan Wednesday May 7th, 2008 4:28:37 PM
((OOC - Folks, Jamie has to leave us for a while. I'd do this via email but for some reason mine's on the blink. So, I'm about to suggest an exit for his character below.))
More shoving and pushing in the gloom as the orcs get themselves organized. Borden's mage sends two of them up front to help with the scouting.
Earpiece: "Hi, er... actually I could use some help," says Milo. "I might have got myself into a bit of a scrape. Can one of you join me? Preferably someone who can shoot?"
Ahead now to the left, the stairs lead up toward a distant glow. The orcs begin to ascend. And now the noise has died down... is that music?
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:55:17 PM
Ingrge grimaces at the thought of yet another of the Emeralds departing particularly now that they are in side Bone Mountain.
K'Nara Thursday May 8th, 2008 1:13:18 AM
"We might have someone available for that, Milo." K'Nara says, glancing obliquely at Falin. "What do you say, sharpshooter? Up for a trip to Osto? I hear it's particularly...fragrant this time of year..." She grins at the elf and rummages to remove a battered brass bottle from her Haversack. If Falin agrees to go, K'Nara will use the efreet in the bottle to transport him to Osto.
Brother Bertram Thursday May 8th, 2008 7:47:18 AM
Bertram does his best to make himself prepared in the narrow confines. He groans inwardly hearing that another Emerald Dragon was going to leave.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 171/185 d20+19=28 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:06:52 PM
The Hydra makes way for Falin to get past, and turns to follow the otehrs up the stairs. And what was that distant noise? Music?
Listen=28
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-8 strength)
Falin Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:18:14 PM
"Yeah, I can go." Says Falin with a hint of sadness in his voice. "I'll try to get back as soon as possible."
He hands the 4 immovable rods and the fire elemental gem to Olana.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance d20+3=22 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 1:56:49 PM
Clapping the archer on the back, Gunther grins at him. "Promise to bring back a souvenir." he teases his brother in arms. Taking out one of his water skins, the warrior pours it on the acid burn, trying to dilute the burning substance. He offers his skin to any who might need it.
As his friend the hydra speaks of music, Gunther turns his ear and listens (Listen=22). "Yeah, I thought I heard someting too." With a grimace on his face, the warrior redoubles his grip on his sword and is ready to move out with the others when they advance.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday May 8th, 2008 11:03:14 PM
Olana flashes an angry look at K'Nara, her emotions for the moment getting in the way of what was best. Why Falin?? Why not Olana...? But of course Milo had asked for a shooter, and Falin was the best. Anger pales, leaving disappointment in its wake - an easier pain to bear. "You be careful," she says to Milo over the earpiece. "And you - " to Falin - "you look after him, you hear?" as she takes the rods and the gem.
DM Jan Thursday May 8th, 2008 11:15:55 PM
While the Dragons take care of their own business for a moment, Borden has sent a couple of scouts up the steps. Gunther's water skein bath stops the acid from doing any more damage. (Same needs doing to Ath and Lian. Otherwise another 4 damage.) And the faint sound of music does indeed drift down the stairs. It's quite pleasant, but going off the grimaces and comments, certainly not to the orcs taste.
The efreet in K'nara's bottle is in its usual petulant mood, and will perform the task - grumbling all the way.
The two orc scouts return, and in gutteral common - " there's a wide passage - lit - at the top of the stairs, and on both sides are cells, cages, containing hideous animals."
And right at that moment, the ground shifts slightly beneath everyone's feet. It lasts maybe 10 or 15 seconds, a gentle undulation.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 171/185 Friday May 9th, 2008 1:43:34 AM
Athalorn bends his necks low to Gunther, the ones which had burned with the acid, hoping the warrior will pour some water on the wounds for him. He then begins to travel up the stairway.
"Let us wassste no more time, friends. I do not know what the rippling ground is, but I do not wish to wait here to find out."
Active Effects:
Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-8 strength)
Jamie OOC Friday May 9th, 2008 2:20:55 PM I wanted to thank everyone for the fun playtime and for letting me jump in and out so often (at least it seems that way to me). I really do like the interaction with all of you guys. After my military stuff throughout the year I hope to be back.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 50/50??, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Saturday May 10th, 2008 1:48:05 AM
Taking his skin, Gunther quickly pours his water on Athalorn and Lian and then readies himself for what is surely an impending battle.
Brother Bertram Sunday May 11th, 2008 11:57:45 PM
Bertram tries to imagine what they might face ahead and prepare spells for it.
(ooc sorry gang for the light posts, real life has been interrupting my gaming lately)
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp (Subbed by Nellie) Monday May 12th, 2008 10:19:10 PM
Listening attentively to the orcs report, the bladesinger lets out a little huff at the slight tremor. "A trap no doubt. Still, no sense in just rushing in..." K'nara looks over at the dwindling ranks of the Emerald Dragons, her hazel eyes calculating. "Ingrge, Olana, Athalorn...we're going to need to get past those cages without attracting too much attention to ourselves. Do any of you have any spells that might be useful?
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 171/185 Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:31:59 AM
ooc: checking in
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:45:12 AM
Olana thinks for a moment. "Not really," she admits to K'Nara. "The only thing I can suggest is to be quiet, and not rattle any of those cages."
DM Jan Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:55:03 AM
((Donna's interwebz ist kaput, Jamie's had to back out, Jay is in Italy, some of us are getting bitten and sucked dry by the mosquito named Real Life - we're in good shape! :) ))
The druid in hydra form ascends the stairs. At the top he can see a flat corridor ahead - roughly the same size as the other tunnels have been.
There is light here - coming from what look like cells lining both walls on either side. In the nearest cells - movement. Something sticks out a long proboscis, there is a grunt, a squeak - all kinds of goings on by the looks of it. It looks a bit like a zoo!
And way down the corridor, music, and someone singing. An odd song, too - like something you'd hear in a tavern, rather than in the depths of a place like Mount Bone.
Back down at the base of the stairs, Borden has a quiet word with K'Nara. "We're going up," he says.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 13th, 2008 8:05:57 AM
Bertram follows with the others, eyeing the creatures in the zoo. He cant help but wonder what purpose it serves.
Athalorn 12 Headed Hydra form: AC 46 HP 171/185 Tuesday May 13th, 2008 12:46:01 PM
The druid waits, deciding against changing form again in order to conserve his powers and in case they are attacked. They could do with Milo here right now, he considers. But with an army of angry Orcs, there was little room for stealth anyway.
His serpent voice fills the room.
"Likely a trap, that will release these creatures. I could move down the corridor through the air if needssss be?"
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:39:56 PM
well I suppose if you want me to use up several spells I could possibly make it so we would avoind all contact with them but it is still going to be uncofotable for us. I sy we should just try to stay to the midle and not mess with the cages.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+15=21 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+17=29 Wednesday May 14th, 2008 1:21:40 AM
Olana nods at Athalorn and Ingrge's assessment, and sets off down the passage - right in the middle, all quite like...
Spot 21 Listen 14 Move silently 29
DM Jan Wednesday May 14th, 2008 1:37:08 AM
And so!
The group start to move along the corridor, where they behold some strange sights. For within the cells lining either side, are creatures from nightmare - and none of the usual critters usually found wandering the wastes, either. Giant insects, a pair of blue gargoyles, a miniature purple worm, a dire toucan, a griffon that has scales rather than feathers, a giant vampirric spider, some creatures are so unusual they defy description. The whole shebang suggests selective breeding. There's an artist - a specialist at work, here.
And after the fight with the double beholder creature - it perhaps makes one wonder if the creatures on display here - are just the small stuff....
About 50 ft ahead - the singing stops, and a man emerges from one of the cells. Dressed in an odd collection of ragged cloths, he's a middle aged human with a long beard and a generally unkempt look. He looks momentarily distracted, but then he looks up and sees the advance party of elf, hydra and orc.
"Oh....." he says, and turns and starts to run in the opposite direction.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Wednesday May 14th, 2008 1:13:17 PM
Athalorn, in hydra form, begins to gag at the sight of such unnatural horrors. Angered and nauseous that anyone could be so corrupting as this, he then sees the unkempt man fleeing. His huge form twists and turns, then suddenly ignites in a blaze. Healed and angry, he then gives chase, his extra speed helping the huge inferno through the corridor.
Swift Action: Wildshape into Huge Fire Elemental (Heal 14 HP) and give chase
Active Effects Barkskin Bear's Endurance Bull's Strength Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement Enfeebled (-8 strength)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Wednesday May 14th, 2008 8:16:48 PM
Figuring Ath can catch and stop our newest friend from departing too quickly, Ingrge peers in at the beasts in their cages.
Brother Bertram d20+20=30 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 9:13:15 PM
Bertram sees Athalorn in pursuit and figures he wont be seeing that odd man anymore. He turns to look over all of the creatures, trying to remember if he recalls anything ever mentioned about such things in his temple days.
(00C Knowledge Religion Roll 30)
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp (Subbed by Nellie) d20+1=2 ; d20=6 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 10:11:09 PM
K'nara grins as Athalorn gives chase to the man, though she does activate the communication ring. "Make sure you don't get too far away from the main group. We don't want to be have to haul your fiery butt out of a trap."
Looking around at the strange menagerie, K'nara tries to assertain whether or not there is another nearby danger. But with so many strange sights and sounds, for all she knows this whole room is one big trap. (Spot=2, Listen=6)
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Wednesday May 14th, 2008 10:19:03 PM
The warrior peers inquisitively into the various cages. Oooo....some of these could make wonderful pets! But gaging by Athalorn's response, that might not be the most acceptable choice. Ahhh...but wouldn't it be fun to have a griffon....no...no...focus Gunther! The warrior reaches out and pets his dire lion for comfort. Her natural mass and power seems so right and normal, especially considering the things in this place!
Looking over at K'nara and Ingrge, Gunther stretches his massive shoulders. "Ummmm...vell...vhat next?" he askes uncertainly.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday May 15th, 2008 1:43:09 AM
Olana ducks instinctively as Athalorn changes into a ball of fire and hurtles off. She nocks an arrow and - not wanting to get her eyebrows singed - follows at a slight distance.
DM Jan Thursday May 15th, 2008 2:17:20 AM
At last! Something to chase, and maybe skewer on the end of their pikes. Six of Borden's orcs take off after Athalorn and Olana in the corridor. The orc mage glances toward Borden who merely nods. Some of his boys need to let off some steam.
The flames are causing some of the creatures in the cells to start howling and screeching in fear, and the man dashing off is casting - although his spell seems to be aimed at the cages. "Stop it! Stop it!" he's yelling. "You're frightening them!" He's now only 20ft ahead of the Shifter. Olana and the orcs are about 30ft behind Athalorn.
Meanwhile! A good, headlong dash behind this little party are the rest of the group.
Ingrge notices that all the cages he peers into look very clean, and there is food and water. Someone is taking good care of these unusual critters. Bert's recollections lead him to only one conclusion, and it isn't a particularly learned one. After all, the potential subjects had always been an odd lot, and because they bypassed the usual political machinations between followers of various deities, what was recorded was fairly sketchy. Still... was this the work of a druid, or a ranger specializing in the breeding of monsters? Going off the variety of creatures on display, this was the work of a master.
With all the current commotion going on - firey elementals, orcs dashing about, howling creatures, it IS difficult for K'nara to concentrate on looking out for signs of danger. After all - all it would take was for some of those cage doors to open... However, things look fairly secure.
Gunther's lion has her ears back, and teeth bared.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Thursday May 15th, 2008 12:56:32 PM
The elemental burts after the man. Athalorn makes sure he moves right behind the target, so that his flames dance and tease his heels, then he shouts; his deep and echo-like voice yelling at the man.
"Stand your ground, stranger, and I will not harm you. Flee more, and I will burn you to a cinder."
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday May 15th, 2008 3:49:19 PM
"Athalorn--stop the man, but don't kill him." the leader of the Emerald Dragons barks out loud. Wincing at the cacophony of protests from the caged creatures, K'Nara turns to Borden.
"I'd say that man is the keeper of these critters," she tells the orc leader. "I'd rather have him alive to answer some questions...if you don't think it would be too much to ask your troops. I know how you all love some...eh...good, clean fun in battle and all..."
Brother Bertram Thursday May 15th, 2008 4:06:56 PM
Bertram looks quickly to see if he can find what serves as food for the poor creatures. If so he will put some into the cages as best he can, while trying to sooth the creatures.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Thursday May 15th, 2008 9:19:34 PM
Well, whoever he is, he can't be too bad is he is taking care of these beasts as well as it looks. Now I may change my mind if I find out he is the one creating these abnormalities.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Friday May 16th, 2008 12:06:46 AM
Scratching his nose, the warrior shifts restlessly from foot to foot. There's got to be more to it than this...someone more to chop down. Their missions are never this cut and dry. Never, ever.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Friday May 16th, 2008 1:44:29 AM
As part of an impromptu posse of spear-weilding orcs, Olana advances warily toward the strange man being pursued by Athalorn.
DM Jan Friday May 16th, 2008 2:24:03 AM
The strange, unkempt man grinds to a halt. Borden, in agreement with k'Nara, has given word for his men to stop the chase. Nevertheless all six who were in pursuit can't help stand there behind the fire elemental, putting on a good show of aggressive and threatening behavior, teeth bared and looking at the guy like they want to tear him limb from limb. "Who ARE you people?" the man demands, wild-eyed. "And how did you get in?!"
Creatures in the cages are beginning to settle a little. But none of them will come near, even if Bert tries offering them food. But none of them seem undernourished. One cage holds a pair of wolves; their legs and torso's appear faded and insubstantial, as though they are made of shadow. Only their eyes appear real and solid, and burn an intense red as they regard any of the group looking in at them. The cage next door holds a neat pile of large green eggs.
As for Gunther's worries on the mission... it's a big mountain, and whatever is going on here in this particular spot, the tendrils of necromantic magic are currently thin on the ground.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Friday May 16th, 2008 7:23:49 AM
Speaking in a deep voice again, flames leaping from his torso as he yells dramatically, Athalorn responds to the man. "We are the Emerald Dragons, and these creatures are aberrations of the natural order. Now I will ask the questions, little man. Who are you and what are these things? Why do you keep them?"
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