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?"
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Sunday May 18th, 2008 5:55:57 PM
Pace...pace...pace. The longer he stays in one place the more he realizes how much he hates this tower. Gunther sidles over toward the orcs. If he has to be in this god forsaken tower, it's a small comfort to be close to kin, however distant.
Brother Bertram Monday May 19th, 2008 7:45:32 AM
Bertram sees the animals calming and starts keeping watch for yet any other problems as the group deals with the strange man.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Monday May 19th, 2008 11:35:05 PM
K'Nara arches an eyebrow as she eagerly awaits the response of the zookeeper.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday May 20th, 2008 1:31:43 AM
Olana lowers her bow slightly, especially as the creatures appear to be getting less agitated. She wish she could say the same for the orcs.
DM Jan Tuesday May 20th, 2008 1:57:17 AM
The unkempt man rises to his full height (of around 5' 10"). "My name is Kernorn, and these -" he says stabbing a finger toward the cages, "are my friends. Aberrations, indeed. Fine to talk about aberrations when I'm stood here in front of a talking ball of fire, eh?" he taps his nose. "Eh? You're one to talk." He stands on tip toe for a moment, enabling to see the rest of the group over the shoulders of the orc blockade and the hydra. "Emerald Dragons.... can't see any dragons. I can see orcs, though. "Look - if you don't like what you see here, then take my advice and leave this place, before the masters of this terrible mountain find out. If it wasn't for the fact that they have Edgar, I'd be leaving, too - if I could. I don't make the kind of monsters they want willingly."
Borden smiles at K'Nara, showing a full set of teeth and tusks. "If he's the one producing all these hideous things, then we should kill him - problem solved." He steps forward, pulling his sword.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Tuesday May 20th, 2008 8:36:47 AM
The muscular warrior lays a hand on Borden's shoulder. He speaks in a very respectful tone in Common so that all of the Emeralds can understand him. "Sir, although this man is making the monsters, he's not the one in charge. If we kill him, then the ones holding him here will just find someone else to take his place and we'll have to come back again. But if we kill the ones who give him the orders, then we can put an end to these monsters."
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Tuesday May 20th, 2008 1:12:57 PM
Athalorn resists the urge to kill the man there and then, but barely. His voice rises still further.
" Fire is an ancient and powerful force of nature, in all ways natural. A double beholder that is sewn together is not. I will destroy these poor souls, and their maker. If that is you, then take that as a warning you pitiful wreck! Now who is Edgar? And where can I find these masters?"
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 20th, 2008 3:42:02 PM
Bertram waits to see if Athalorn is going to boil the man's blood or continue to converse. In the meantime he continues to try and keep the animals calm.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Tuesday May 20th, 2008 7:09:38 PM
"Gunther has the way of it." K'Nara speaks firmly. "Kernorn says he wouldn't have made what we've seen willingly--if we stop the 'masters' then we'll stop the production of the monsters." The tall redhead strides forward, glancing at the shapeshifted Athalorn as she goes to where the keeper of the creatures is standing his ground.
"Athalorn..." she tells the druid in a low-pitched voice, "...I don't care for the creation of the unnatural things we've seen, but we don't have the right to slaughter this man's friends, either." The leader of the Emerald Dragons looks Kernorn up and down.
"The orcs you see are the native inhabitants of the lands around Mount Bone. They have come because of the increase of obviously unnatural monsters that threaten their tribes and families...monsters that come from here. They are of a mind to kill whatever they feel will continue to be a threat. I, however, don't believe you are a threat...especially since you speak of the masters of this place as though they hold this 'Edgar' hostage." K'Nara puts a hand on the keeper's shoulder.
"Tell us whom Edgar is...tell us what you know of these 'masters' that appear to be the true threat to everyone here, and I...and the rest of my family--the Emerald Dragons--will do what we must to safeguard you, Edgar and the people of Izen."
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Wednesday May 21st, 2008 1:30:03 AM
Olana looks on warily. The creatures she has seen in the cages don't exactly indicate a sound mind regarding whoever bred them, or accumulated them. Even Culverwood's denizens weren't as off the wall as these critters. Still, she trusts K'Nara and stands down.
DM Jan Wednesday May 21st, 2008 2:09:42 AM
The orcs leader re-sheathes his sword and shrugs. "Good counsel," he says in common. "Might as well cut this off at the root." He folds his arms, and settles to listen to this strange human creature.
A few yards away - "Pitiful wreck yourself, you sanctimonious -" The strange man stops and blinks as K'nara approaches.
No love lost here, is there? Shifter v Monsterologer. Do they have the measure of one another? Makes one wonder perhaps about relative politics and attitudes in druid circles.
After a bit of stuttering and a strong attempt at regaining his composure - "Edgar is my friend. We also live in the wilds of Izen, after being exiled from Dirt City a few years ago. Thrown out we were, no doubt due to folks's attitudes." <glare at Athalorn> "But one day they took him! And they make me create powerful monsters. I know it isn't right, and I know the monsters sometimes die." he clenches a fist. "I feel it. It weakens me, you know.... "As for the masters, well - they're wizards - necro magicians - evil bleeds from them. I always thought they were a myth, but -" he gives a sigh. "You don't want to talk to them. You want to leave them well alone in the depths of the mountain."
Two of the orcs at the front are whispering to one another, and one of them passes back a comment in orcish. "I bet this is the beetle man." Others of the orc contingent nod their heads.
Over by one the cages, one of the shadow wolves approaches Bertram, its claws click click clicking on the stone floor, even though he can hardly discern it's form. It's eyes regard him curiously.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Wednesday May 21st, 2008 7:23:48 AM
OOOh, wouldn't this just be lovely is we have managed to stumble upon the Sons of Dread. We could possible take care of several things at once.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Wednesday May 21st, 2008 12:42:08 PM
The huge elemental, wreathed in flame, stands proudly. Could it be possible that the flames rage fiercer at the monstrologer's attitude?
He reaches out a hand to grasp the man by the throat, but stops half an inch short, so that his heat singes the man's clothes. "Made you did they? They made you create those things? You had no choice? You are sick, and deserve whatever fate is coming to you. This lady is in charge, but were she not so gentle a person, you would be dead. One more false look and i will kill you, wreck."
He moves away, allowing K'Nara to take the lead in the conversation.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Thursday May 22nd, 2008 12:59:55 AM
The warrior looks over at the orcs who are talking amounst themselves. "Erklären Sie mir mehr über diesen bettle Mann." he says quietly in orcish.
Highlight to display spoiler: {"Tell me more about this bettle man."}
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday May 22nd, 2008 2:16:35 AM
Eyes moving between the two antagonists, Olana wishes Milo were here, because he might have said something funny to diffuse the situation. Oh well.
Brother Bertram Thursday May 22nd, 2008 8:08:25 AM
Bertram watches the wolf calmly, speaking soothingly as it approaches. He finds a bit of jerky in his pouch offering it to the creature gingerly, not caring to lose a finger to the animal.
DM Jan Thursday May 22nd, 2008 11:32:22 AM
A couple of the orcs confer with Gunther in low orcish tones. "All kinds of strange things in Izen, the unusual becomes the usual, but this man - beetle man, flying through the air astride the largest insect ever seen," the orcs nod at one another, "yep - it's worth a second look. We wondered where he'd got to. Thought one of the clans had shot him down and eaten him for dinner." They grin.
Over at the cages, Bertram becomes the shadow wolves' best friend, and as the jerky appears, the second of them is at the cage bars in moments.
The orcs close to the strange old man back off as their leader approaches. Borden pulls his sword. "Enough of this. How many of these wizards are there, and where are they? Talk, you stringy human and stop wasting our time. It's time to end this once and for all and right now you're just in my way."
Kernorn's shoulders fall. He points, in the direction he was heading. "That passage leads to the interior of the mountain. And there are four of them. And - you need to watch out, the smallest is the worst. I can help. No doubt there will be more of my creatures on guard. But what about Edgar?"
Ahead, the passage extends, partially lit - the occasional torch offering a pool of light. It seems extend for about 100 yards then then dips.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday May 22nd, 2008 9:01:39 PM
"Describe to me your friend Edgar." K'Nara bids Kenorn. "We need to know him when we see him--if Edgar is the result of crossing a gorgon with a shark, or the like, then you'd best make sure we'll recognize him or we might confuse him for some of your forced creations. We've got to go stop whomever is threatening the area, so we'll be using lethal force." The blade singer eyes the mage before her, finding anyone who would so obviously tinker with the natural order of things very odd and personally objectionable.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Thursday May 22nd, 2008 10:21:43 PM
Ingrge listens closely wanting to find out perhaps the best way of combating these or other creatures.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Friday May 23rd, 2008 1:20:08 AM
The warrior chuckles at the orc's joke. He waits patiently while the others gather information, knowing all too well from the past that rushing in is not always the best plan.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Friday May 23rd, 2008 12:39:04 PM
Athalorn stays behind K'Nara, waiting for the prompt to head down the tunnel, and using his energy to calm himself down.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Saturday May 24th, 2008 3:05:06 AM
The leader of the Emerald Dragon waits for an answer.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance Sunday May 25th, 2008 1:58:52 PM
As the warrior hangs around with the orcs, he begins to pick his nails with the blade of his sword. Waiting was never his strong point, and he's anxious to get on with the inevitable fighting so that they can get out of this accursed tower.
Brother Bertram Monday May 26th, 2008 2:18:57 PM
Bertram feeds the next wolf as well and then asks the gentleman in charge of the zoo, "Would these fellows be a help?"
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+15=21 ; Tuesday May 27th, 2008 11:46:51 AM
Listen 21
Trying to catch what the orcs are talking about, Olana also waits. Especially for for the description of this odd man's sidekick. She sees tunnels full of weird monsters in her future and isn't exactly delighted at the prospect.
DM Jan Tuesday May 27th, 2008 12:07:41 PM
A lot of feet shuffling and sighs of exasperation accompany Kernorn's long and loving description of his friend Edgar who - at the end of it - sounds like a cross between an enormous green june bug and a cockroach. Going off the description alone its carapace is about 10 ft in diameter.
Borden's had enough. "All right, now shut up about the beetle and tell us about our foe, and where they are." He's about ready to employ lethal force right now. His mage lieutenant smiles.
The monsterologer points down the tunnel that leads to the interior of the mountain. "There are four - two men, a woman, and a child. They're all human, or at least they were once. "That tunnel leads to a giant cavern. The cavern is the center of the mountain. There are four other exits like this one. I know one of them will be guarded by Alexandra, but right now I don't know which one. "The necromancers have their own little hovels within the cavern. That's where they live. That's were they do their dark work. That's where Edgar is - in a cage. And that - is where they are keeping the 'horde of darkness'." He shrugs apologetically. "I wouldn't have helped them, but Edgar... Anyway, the horde are a legion of monsters, probably about 70 strong by now." He stares at K'Nara and Borden. "Do you HAVE to use lethal force? I mean, maybe I can... lead them off, and camp out with them somewhere..."
As for Bert's question, the man steps forward. "Better that we let them go," he says. "it's safer for them, and they have their own mind. They'll join us if they want to."
He starts to open up more of the cages.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 27th, 2008 6:28:46 PM
Bertram steps back out of the way, still regarding the wolves, wondering whether they will leave or stay. He keeps an eye on Borden to make sure he doesn't do something rather, well, "Orcish", that they would all regret.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Tuesday May 27th, 2008 11:03:04 PM
Stepping out of the way of the beasts, Ingrge shakes his head as his suspisions about the SoD seem to be coming true.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Wednesday May 28th, 2008 8:12:20 AM
"So to the cavern my friends?" the elemental asks, frustrated with this wait.
DM Jan Wednesday May 28th, 2008 4:55:19 PM
Borden sends two of his scouts forward, then sets off at a slightly slower pace with his main group. One of the orcs has Kernorn by the arm and his dragging him along. All kinds of weird creatures are starting to emerge from their cages, acting bewildered, looking this way and that.
(Emeralds following the orcs?)
The tunnel continues into the mountain's interior, at a slight downhill gradient. It's back to torchlight once more, and the journey seems to go on a little longer than everyone originally assumed. Kernorn appears quite befuddled when it comes to the practicalities of distance.
However!
Eventually, a source of light can be seen ahead. Distant grunting can also be heard - echoing - as if the sound is coming from a large hollow space.
And Borden's scouts appear to be lying prone, on the tunnel floor, about 30 ft ahead.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+1=18 d20=5 Wednesday May 28th, 2008 4:58:53 PM
The tall, chestnut-maned woman's eyes narrow in thought.
"So Edgar is the giant beetle-creature that's been seen flying around the area?" K'Nara muses aloud. "Such a creature was reported to be mounted by a rider. I hope the people who've captured your friend haven't been making him do things that will end up causing someone to kill him." The blade singer huffs out a breath.
"If you believe you can aid us in keeping some of these monsters from attacking us and, thus, becoming fair game to be attacked back," K'Nara says to Kernorn, "Then by all means accompany us and you can try to do whatever you believe will work. I'd rather engage my true enemy than waste time and energy on creatures who aren't here by choice. As for leading them away and camping out with them somewhere...I can make no guarantees on that--you're in the heart of Bone Mountain, which is within the borders of Izen, so the only one who can give you permission to do that would be Borden, here." She bobs her head at the orc leader.
"We could use some information on Alexandra, too--in case we run into her..." While Kernorn is (hopefully) cooperating with that, K'Nara nudges Borden and steps to one side for a semi-private powwow.
"The more Kernorn describes what is happening," she tells Borden, "The more I'm inclined to agree with my fellow Emerald Dragons: this whole 'monster army' concept smacks of a plot by the Sons of Dread. I don't know if you've been able to keep up with non-Izen matters, but the SoD have been mobilizing rather dramatic and large-scale plans that have been effecting the very Wold itself. Be on your guard for your own sake, because if this is another SoD plot, then I'm sure they'd just love to get their hooks into you--especially since Izen used to be Marteaus' old stomping grounds."
addendum since I was writing my post while the DM was puting hers up on the board:
The Emerald Dragons allow the orcs to take the lead (this istheir mountain, after all!), alert to whatever may come their way...like the sudden appearance of orc scouts lying on the floor.
"Eyes and ears open." K'Nara barks, looking around and trying to Spot or Hear anything.
(OOC: voluntary Spot check is 18 and Listen is 5.)
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 d20+25=29 ; d20+19=22 ; Wednesday May 28th, 2008 5:27:00 PM
Athalorn stays back a little, wary that his current form will alert anything to their presence very quickly. He looks around carefully when the orcs are found scattered around the floor. And what was that grunting? The shifter volunteers to venture forwards first.....
Spot = 29 Listen = 22
DM Jan ((OOC)) Wednesday May 28th, 2008 5:58:37 PM
((Sorry about the rush, only I couldn't wait - I'm off to the Hollywood Bowl in half an hour - Police and Elvis Costello. Won't be back till after midnight, and well, you know how the posting would be at that time of night! :) ))
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance d20+3=19 ; Thursday May 29th, 2008 1:09:43 AM
Gunther gladly follows along with the orc contingent, glad that the ball is rolling once more. Sword in hand and dire lion by his side, the warrior glances around at the downed orcs and sighs. Odds are they're not taking a nap, which more than likely means something nasty's ahead.
Scanning around the warrior takes a quick looksie for anything out of the ordinary. (Spot=19)
OOC: Jan, how much time has passed? Just wondering what spells are likely still in place and which ones might have expired.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday May 29th, 2008 8:57:32 PM
K'Nara continues to strain her eyes and ears for a sign of what may have happened.
DM Jan Friday May 30th, 2008 2:06:32 AM
Time passed - approx 45 minutes.
"Sons of Dread?" asks the orc leader. "Another problem to cut down?"
A few yards away, Kernorn is struggling with the orc who's dragging him along, the 'dragging' part obviously rubbing him up the wrong way. In the midst of it - "Alexandra?" he says to K'Nara. "Oh, she's nothing to worry about - she's a spider. Will you let go of me you big, snaggled-toothed oaf!"
K'nara, Ath and Gunther can all see there is something 'dead' wrong with the fallen orcs scouts, in fact Athalorn notices blood, splattered and glistening darkly in the dim tunnel.
They are both lying in roughly the same spot in the tunnel, about 6 ft in front of the party. Borden signals his men to halt immediately.
Ahead, the light is brighter, the strange noises continue, and the tunnel appears to be taking a turn to the right.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Friday May 30th, 2008 5:41:36 AM
Athalorn, still ablaze, begins to move slowly down the corridor.....
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Friday May 30th, 2008 5:42:16 AM ooc: Need to update my AC and work out which spells are still ongoing... will do that later, sorry Jan.
Brother Bertram Friday May 30th, 2008 4:22:59 PM
Bertram whistles softly to the two large wolves, curious to see if they follow. He then follows along with spells at the ready, unsure what they were going to find ahead. If it involved followers of Marteaus however, he was more than willing to show them the error of thier ways....
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Friday May 30th, 2008 8:08:24 PM
K'Nara remembers to look UP as well as around...
Lian Monday June 2nd, 2008 10:11:50 AM
OOC: I'm back. Can I get a run down of the last few weeks? Two lines is enough.
The monk stands in the wings trying to look like he knows whats happening.
~~Jan~~ OOC - good summary by Simon below, Windorn might need a read.
Lian Monday June 2nd, 2008 10:17:17 AM
OOC: How did the meeting with the Grey Knights go?
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Monday June 2nd, 2008 12:24:19 PM OOC: Jay - can't remember where you left, but to be quite honest not much has happened. After the fight with the double beholder thing, we ran up some stairs and found those weird monster experiment things in cages. After a quick row with Athalorn the fellow has told us that he is made to do the experiments by some nasty wizard chaps, who we believe to be the Sons of Dread. (I don't know who they are actually - any info on these chaps?)
We are just wandering off to a big cavern to find them but have stumbled across the bodies of some our orcs who lie on the ground. That's it really... i think.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement, Cat's Grace, Bear's Endurance d20+3=10 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 3:02:21 PM
More than a bit edgy, the warrior once more scans the immediate area for signs of what might have killed the orcs. Spider...hmmmm... He looks over at K'nara. "Through de tunnel?" he asks hesitantly.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+15=22 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+14=18 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 7:20:56 PM
Olana holds up her hand, then examines the walls, floor and ceiling where the orcs have fallen/
Spot 22 Dungeoneering 3 search 18
DM Jan Monday June 2nd, 2008 7:32:27 PM
Bert discovers that not only are the two shadow wolves following - at a distance - but the miniature purple worm and the dire toucan are, too.
As everyone has a look at the immediate area surrounding the fallen orcs, there appears to be some graffiti, about human waist height, a curly design, like a large, calligraphic first letter of a manuscript, on the right side of the tunnel.
Ahead the strange creature noises continue.
Kernorn peers at the wall. "Never noticed that before," he says with a shrug.
"Is it some kind of trigger?" Borden asks the Emeralds. "And if my men activated it? Is our enemy now forewarned?"
Brother Bertram Monday June 2nd, 2008 8:14:49 PM
Bertram examines the mark looking for anything he might recognize.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+23=31 ; d20+29=35 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 8:58:38 PM
Ingrge jions Bertram to see if he can tell what the symbol is. Knowledge arcana 31, Spell craft 35.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Monday June 2nd, 2008 11:16:47 PM
"The writing may be a clue." K'Nara agreed. "Let's give Ingrge a chance to see if he can tell what it says before we go forward."
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 171/171 Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 1:52:50 AM
....waits for Ingrge to investigate the symbol.
Lian Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 1:37:23 PM
(OOC: Nope, I know nothing about the Sons of Dread. Sort of sounds like an old grunge band though.)
"This is turning out to be a charming sort of place." He looks at some muck growing on a rock and compares the color to the back of his right hand.
DM Jan Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 7:07:08 PM
Bert and Ingrge take a look at the curly design on the side of the tunnel and discover a glyph. They can still see traces of the diamond dust needed in its creaton, and it appears to have been discharged.
Ahead in the tunnel, there is movement. A figure in silhouette, cloaked, face hidden, carrying a staff.
"Oh, and who comes to call?" the female voice purrs. "Orcs? I smell the magic you're carrying, orcs. It won't help you, you know. One more step and you'll die sooner than later."
"Silence, harridan!" bellows Borden. "We're here to tame your monsters, seeing as you seem incapable!" Borden's mage appears to be whispering to himself.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 10:13:05 PM 'Lucia,' K'Nara immediately communicates with her sword, 'Is there anything invisible here..?' She whirls to face the female staff-wielder, keeping her tongue and holding her actions until she can take a cue from Ingrge about how to handle the woman. K'Nara hopes that Ingrge's solution involves blasting the female off the face of the Yrth...assuming that the woman is one of the ones responsible for producing the monsters menacing the area.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 10:32:55 PM
The warrior's face breaks out in a grin...ooooo...something to kill...there, just ahead!! His orcs instincts tell him to charge in and kill. Ahh...but there is that little human part that speaks wisdom. "Oooh no... what for Ingrge to finish first...don't want to get on the wrong end of his spells!"
With his ability to fly now gone, the warrior moves over to the side and cautiously makes his way forward...making darned sure that he lets Ingrge have all the time and space he needs to do his thing.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+18=31 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 11:05:22 PM
Ingrge seeing invisible and arcane sight active looks ahead to see what is there other than their female visitor and then with a soft chuckle tries something a bit more subtle than the others are probably expecting. In fact neither the orcs nor the emeralds can see anything occuring. Then suddenly there is a vague shape of something near the woman. The female staff bearer suddenly finds herself faced with her most horrifying fear; Will Dc26 to recognize the image as unreal. If she failes fort DC 26 or die. Fort save and she takes 13 points damage
Phantasmal Killer - Will save DC 26: SR 31: Fortitude save DC 26
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 143/143 d20+14=30 ; 3d8+4=19 ; 2d8=14 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 1:56:08 AM
Athalorn surges forward in a rage, his fiery form radiating intense heat through the tunnel , and his body crashes into the woman with a fierce attack.
Slam attack hits AC 30 for 19 damage and 14 fire damage.
Active Effects:(assuming 45 minutes has passed)
Barkskin Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement
Lian Wednesday June 4th, 2008 4:31:33 PM
(OOC: What buffs has Lian got active?)
The hand of Domi casts Owl's Wisdom then activates his Blessed Hands.
{{~~ Jan~~ whatever you had before that lasts longer than three quarters of an hour.}}
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday June 5th, 2008 1:30:22 AM
Olana cocks her head. So.... orcs, but no mention about the rest of them? Were they effectively hidden in the gloom. So, she hangs back a little and tries to blend in, while bringing her bow to bear. No need to advertise until they were good and ready.
DM Jan d20+23=26 ; d20+14=21 ; 10d6=31 ; d20+19=36 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 2:23:16 AM
The verbal exchange sends a charge of adrenalin into the air, until the air crackles with the expectation of battle. Surrounded by orc bretheren, Gunther can taste it - the hunt, the kill. And in the midst of it - Ingrge's spell snakes forward, building in the ether, gathering a fear-inspiring illusion.
The hooded figure appears momentarily spellbound, (made save - just) and a sharp intake of breath is heard, until -
"How dare you! How -"
Her rage is interrupted as the fireball AKA Athalorn slams into her, carrying her backward and down onto the ground.
Borden lets out a cry, and all around the Emeralds, the orcs begin to charge forward.
Athalorn is now far enough down the passage to see what lies beyond - a yawning cavern, now only 15 feet away. And straight ahead - creatures, dozens, a sea of them, their eyes all turning to witness the commotion.
Below the Shifter, the hooded figure screams and cackles, her flesh crisping. She reaches out a hand -
Brother Bertram 7d8=31 ; 10d6=31 ; 10d8=41 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 7:34:09 AM
Bertram prays quickly and a beam of pure white searing light flies from the eye of Gargul imprinted upon his hand, striking the creature as it lies on the ground.
(OOC Searing Light No Save, Resistance applies First roll is Damage for normal creature, Second roll is if Undead, Third roll is if the creature is undead and very vulnerable to bright light.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+14=31 ; d3=2 ; d20+14=33 ; 2d8+4=13 ; 2d8=9 ; 2d8+4=8 ; 2d8=10 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 12:41:32 PM
Athalorn feels pained and weakened by the magic attack, but uses his immense size and power to burn and slam the woman. His voice sounds out as he fights. "Who are you, witch? And what are these creatures for?
Hits AC 31 for 13 damage and 9 fire damage Hits AC 33 for 8 damage and 10 fire damage
Ignore the d3 roll.
Active Effects:
Barkskin Stoneskin 90 Freedom of Movement
Lian d20+21=22 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 2:33:58 PM
(OOC: Nevermind with the Owls Wisdom then, didn't realize it took a month to get this far. :))
Last round: Cast Bull's Strength
This round: Activates boots and charges in with the orcs. If he can manage it, takes a swing at the hag in the hood. (Hits AC 21, natural 1 miss)[whiff!]
Active Effects: Stoneskin 90mins Bears Endurance Freedom of Movement Blessed Hands Owl's Wisdom Boots 1/10 +1 Lesser Courage
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday June 5th, 2008 6:09:52 PM
"I guess asking to borrow a cup of sugar is out?" quips K'Nara, hefting Lucia in her hand and eying the monsters beyond where Athalorn and his foe are grappling each other.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement d20+11=20 ; d8+25=29 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 12:08:18 AM
The lust builds to the point until he can no longer contain it. Rushing forward with the horde, Gunther presses forward toward the figure. If he reaches it he attacks with pure raw strength. (AC20 for 29...as if that could hit!!)
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+22=28 ; d20+17=24 ; d20+12=15 ; d8+2=6 ; d8+2=9 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 2:12:22 AM
Olana pulls back her bow and starts firing at the cloaked figure in the midst of flame and light and elf and human.
Lian Friday June 6th, 2008 11:46:42 AM
OOC: Pausing to rock DM to sleep... with a real rock.
~~Jan~~ LOL
DM Jan d20+19=30 ; d20+19=24 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 1:10:52 PM
As everyone starts to advance on the enemy, what lies beyond in the cavern becomes all too clear - giant creatures! Huge grey critters with long snouts! Big, heavily-muscled lizard creatures with tails like flexible battering rams. Baby dragons! Other weird, indescribable things. All watching the fight going on in the tunnel entrance.
The figure on the ground beneath Lian, Athalorn and Gunther, not to mention a whole lotta orc, starts to burn from fire and holy searing light. The colour of the flame flares green in places, as magical protections take some of the damage and used up. It does in fact start to get a little toasty for everyone else, too, in the immediate vicinity - Ath's fire elemental shape, making it difficult for some to get a blow in.
The hood of the cloak burns away, revealing a woman of middle age, her skin already blackening. "Swamp pox on you all!" is her only reply to Athalorn's questions. In desperation, as her hair starts to catch fire, she takes in one, deep breath and lets out a horrible wail.
Wail of the Banshee 40ft radius. Fort Save Negates DC 19 or death. SR = 30
It's the last thing she'll ever do.
Six of Borden's men drop, blood pouring out of their ears.
The awful sound bounces around the cavern. Around and around and around. And immediately there is a stampede, as the elephants and the dinosaurs try to make for every available exit.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+17=21 ; d20+14=30 ; d20+14=17 ; 2d8+4=13 ; 2d8+4=13 ; 2d8=5 ; 2d8=11 ; d20+25=34 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 3:07:52 PM
Athalorn shakes his huge head at the hideous noise, flames leaping from him as he does so. He manages to avoid the worst of the effect, but still that indescribable wailing pains him.
If she is still alive, he carries on his brutal assault:
AC 30 for 13 damage and 5 fire damage AC 17 for 13 and 11 fire
If she is dead, he stands and then looks for signs of more danger.... (spot 34)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+12=18 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=31 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 7:25:15 PM
Muttering under his breath as he watches his last spell dissipate with no effect, Ingrge starts thinking of what to do next when evertything goes south and this horrible blood cuddling screamong wail reverberates through his body, down deep into his soul, knocking him to his knees. Truly stunned he feels himself fading and being pulled into the land of the shadow as the wail echoes and reverberates off the walls and through him from head to toe. Fighting with every ounce of his will and strength, he still feels his life force oozing away, Failed first save DC 18, burning a hero point DC 16 it doesn't appear to help him in any way and he begins to see red spots flashing before his eyes. As the elder elf begins to fade to black his last thought is that Caeryn is going to really be pissed that he didn't make it back and he manages a soft chuckle. Almost as he seems to accept his fate and that he is going to die a tiny spark of defiance flares up and for a moment it seems that all is not lost, burned second hero point DC 18, but ingrge remembers nothing else as he passes into unconciousness.
Alive but lying unconcious near the rear of the party.
Brother Bertram d20+14=27 ; Saturday June 7th, 2008 9:54:24 AM
Bertram sees Ingrge fall and groans, fearing the worst for his friend. He is able to avoid any ill effects from the powerful sound and immediately summons a large hand, placing it in the path of any creature trying to get at Ingrge. He begins pulling Ingrge out of harms way and will begin checking him to see what needs done.
(OOC Grasping Hand Made Save DC 27)
Lian d20+19=29 ; d20+21=24 ; d20+21=28 ; d20+21=23 ; d20+21=34 ; d20+21=39 ; d20+16=24 ; 2d6+6=15 ; 2d6+6=9 ; 2d6+6=11 ; 2d6+6=17 ; 2d6+6=18 ; 2d6+6=10 ; Saturday June 7th, 2008 11:07:49 AM
(Fort 29) (boots still active 3/10 rounds)
His eyeballs vibrate in his head at the sound.
Unaware of the weapon mage's downfall, the monk shakes off the sound and advances on the figure. He unleashes in the woman. (hits AC 24, 28, 23, 34, 39 and 24, for 15, 9, 11, 17, 18 and 10 damage, breaks evil DR)
If she is dead before Lian reaches her, he moves to the next clear opponent. (using whichever one of the above attacks :))
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement d20+11=26 ; d20+11=29 ; d8+25=30 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 9:31:07 PM
Shrugging off the ear splitting wail, Gunther sprints forward to the next available hooded figure, the lust of the kill urging him on. (Fort=26)
Power attack if in range of next opponent. AC29 for 30.
Lian Monday June 9th, 2008 4:41:18 PM
OOC: Checking in.
Brother Bertram Monday June 9th, 2008 7:22:15 PM
Bertram sighs with relief feeling the steady, if somewhat shallow pulse of his friend. He tries to wake him as quickly as possible, while keeping the ghostly Hand hovering in front of them for some measure of protection. He sorts through his healer's kit finding strong, bitter smelling herbs which he places under Ingrge's nose, hoping this will wake him.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+17=32 ; d20+22=32 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+12=20 ; d8+2=3 ; d8+2=7 ; d8+2=7 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 11:57:36 PM
Olana bears the sound with a sharp wince. She looks on in horror as Ingrge goes down, and attempts to shift into a position that will defend him and Bertram and will not move forward with some of the others.
Firing into melee - arrows hit 32, 23, 20 , for 3, 7 and 7 for anything that comes close.
"Bert? How's he doing?" Her voice is laced with panic.
As the final remnants of the female necromancer's spell fade to nothing, it is superceded by the howling and screeching of terrified beasts, bellowing out their own terrors at that awful sound. In the main cavern it is utter chaos. A seething mass of animals.
Kernorn the monsterologer is getting to his feet after crouching and cringing, his hands over his ears. "No, no, no, no," he is saying again and again. "They hate noise. They hate it." He dashes forward.
A HUGE beast with a tiny head, sharp teeth and powerful shoulders careens toward Borden, Gunther and the orcs (and everyone else) as they charge forward into the bowels of the cavern. It takes the combined efforts of Olana's arrows, Lian's pounding fists, and Gunther's blinding fast blade to bring it down. And even then, the momentum of the felled creature sends it sliding along the ground, grinding to a halt only three feet away from Bert and the fallen Ingrge.
Athalorn's keen eyes cover the cavern, and he sees, quite clearly, someone - another black-cloaked figure, carrying a staff - about 50 feet away from the party, in the centre of the cavern, rising up into the air, and hovering over the chaos below.
Elsewhere in the air - the small dragons are flying.
The body of the fallen female necromancer starts to dissolve.
(I have Gunther, Lian, Athalorn, Borden, Kernorn right at the edge of the large cavern, and Bert, Ingrge, Olana and K'Nara a few feet behind, still in the shadow of the tunnel. Sound about right?)
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+15=23 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 1:29:37 AM
(OOC: Sorry about missing the posts...K'Nara's Fort Save versus the Wail of the Banshee is 23; and I believe that the DM has the group placement pretty accrurate.)
The chestnut-maned blade singer winces at the frightful sound of the banshee, and blinks at the enormous mixture of creatures assembled in the cavern.
"Ingrge, what have y--" she begins to ask but then gasps as she sees that the weapon mage is down. She turns to Kernorn.
"If you don't think of something we can do to make those critters in there peaceful, there's gonna be a bloodbath!" she tells the monstrologer fiercely. "THINK of something!"
Lian Tuesday June 10th, 2008 10:28:29 AM
Lian takes a defensive stance and doesn't move forward. Even for a hand of Domi, the numbers were high. He's brave, but not suicidal.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Tuesday June 10th, 2008 12:53:50 PM
Athalorn also waits - though his huge elemental form may scare some of the creatures away. He takes the opportunity to observe the creatures in the cavern - are they moving away? Aggressive?
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Tuesday June 10th, 2008 11:14:31 PM
K'Nara wonders if she shouldn't swap out Lucia for an AK-47 but she's in the wrong game to do that.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Tuesday June 10th, 2008 11:31:01 PM
Panting and filled with blood lust, the warrior still has enough sense not to charge in while his friend hang back. Looking at Bertram tending to Ingrge, Gunther decides to wait until the mage gets back to his feet...or more likely...until one of the hooded figures presses the battle.
The Dragons stay put while one of their number is revived.
However, Kernorn has now dashed out into the cavern after muttering something unintelligible to K'Nara and is heading north along the cavern wall. He takes out a whistle and blows - the sound is nothing to human and elf ears, but to orc and dwarf - a low peeping sound - that certainly seems to hold the attention of the dinos and the elephants. Those creatures quickly shift direction and head for Kernorn. They appear to be heading off and disappearing down another tunnel to the north of the group.
"Forward, now!" Borden yells at his men, "Before that hovering menace can gain control of anything." The orcs charge quick and low into the interior of the cavern, their objective - the hovering dark figure at the centre.
And at the centre of the cavern, the Rampager monsters appear to be gathering, below the hovering figure. Elsewhere, a group of other strange creatures - Spellgaunts - are clustered together at the far side looking bewildered, while the crystal dragon wyrmlings circle high up near the ceiling, their path suggesting it is thier own as they look for a way out.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength 10d6=40 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 8:23:17 AM
Making a slow recovery, Ingrge shakes his head as if to clear it and then smiles weakly at his freinds.
"Well, That was unexpected."
Getting up and brushing himself off he takes stock of his situation and deems that he isn't quite ready to cast a spell yet so grabs a wand and fires off a charge aimed at the floating dude in the middle. Lightening bolt 40 points damage, reflexDC 22 for 20 points
Lian Wednesday June 11th, 2008 10:46:44 AM
The monk would love to lay down some sort of cover for the orcs, but, alas, Domi doesn't allow it... shame really. Lian anticipates the worse for the remaining orcs.
Brother Bertram Wednesday June 11th, 2008 8:40:25 PM
Bertram grins seeing his friend waken. He turns back to the ongoing battles, wishing he could help more.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Wednesday June 11th, 2008 11:57:54 PM
His ability to fly already used, the warrior hedges toward the hooded figure in the back of the room. He begins skirting around the edge of the room, cursing the fact that he never figured out how to used ranged weapons effectively.
Lian Thursday June 12th, 2008 11:23:38 AM
The monk finally notices Ingrge as he stands up. "Getting to where you have to lay down after casting huh?! Getting old my friend." He smiles.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday June 12th, 2008 11:46:42 AM
Olana breathes a sigh of relief as Ingrge re-awakens. Seeing Gunther set off into the cavern, she follows quietly, bow still drawn.
DM Jan Thursday June 12th, 2008 12:15:58 PM
As the horde of larger creatures disappear in a stampede down the tunnel to the north of the group (2), Ingrge's spell cracks out through the empty air, dazzling and powerful. It batters and jags against the hooded figure in the air, who lets out a howl of rage. It's followed by another howl as one of the charging orcs manages to hurl a spear, hitting the figure in the thigh. Hands twirl furiously, and suddenly there is movement in the tunnel entrance where the Emeralds are standing. Odd though - no monsters, or walls of force, or bursts of energy - instead there is a sharp ~PLOP~ as a large splat of mud drops to the floor. An innocuous thing perhaps, until any dwarf worth his salt realises a small but critical keystone in the ceiling of the tunnel entrance has been transmuted into mud. The tunnel (1) begins to groan and shift above everyone's heads.
Out in the cavern, Gunther and Olana (I have them moving clockwise around the bottom of the cavern at the south tunnel 5 entrance) see the following -
Borden and his orcs are almost upon the horde of monsters seething below the hooded figure at the centre of the cavern. Weapons are drawn and a clash is imminent.
Off to the left, on the western side of the cavern is a huddle of creatures and beyond - another tunnel (4) and another hooded person - on the ground and paying sharp attention to what is happening in the centre of the cavern.
To the north, heading in an anti-clockwise direction, is Kernorn - hugging the wall, approaching tunnel (3)
And the tiny dragons are still flying in a graceful circle above everyone's heads.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Thursday June 12th, 2008 12:22:33 PM
Witha howl of frustration, Athalorn charges into the cavern, towards the hooded figure in tunnel 4.(moves 120')
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Thursday June 12th, 2008 2:28:55 PM
"That does it..!" K'Nara says, sheathing her sword. "Everyone--out of the tunnel! NOW!" Even as she orders so, the chestnut-maned blade singer sprints out of the passageway.
"I may not be the expert that Falin is..." the leader of the Emerald Dragons mutters, "...but I'm willing to give this a shot..." K'Nara removes her shortbow from its holder, squinting around to see which target is the likeliest.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Thursday June 12th, 2008 7:16:22 PM
Surprised not by the plop itself but that the spell had actually worked on worked stone, Ingrge quickly moves into the cavern quickly tosseing up a spell of his own to try and keep the unnel from totally collapsing. Almost as fast as the tunnel begins to collap[se another tunnel is being built underit supporting what is there and not allowing the current wall to shift. Wall of stone
Brother Bertram Friday June 13th, 2008 6:57:09 AM
Bertram quickly reaches in his pouch and crushes a small gem. Instantly a large Earth Elemental appears. Bertram orders it to preserve the tunnel.
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