Lian Friday June 13th, 2008 10:33:15 AM
Lian moves out of the tunnel as Knara says and takes a position of defense near the red head to defend against any incoming melee combatants.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Saturday June 14th, 2008 1:54:20 AM
Still shadowing Gunther, Olana glances back, seeing some of the others emerge. What the heck was happening there?
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Saturday June 14th, 2008 7:56:19 AM
Sneaky...sneaky...sneaky...what would Milo do. Gunther does his best to keep moving around the edge (though he makes sure he is making double movements 60 ft) and toward the hooded figure.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+19=27 ; d6=2 ; d20+14=16 ; d6=5 ; d20+9=17 ; d6=3 ; Saturday June 14th, 2008 5:04:17 PM
K'Nara's sharp hazel eyes whip around the perimeter of the cavern, noting that Borden and what was left of his troops faced one of the necros...and the Kernorn was in the vicinity of another. She plucked arrows from her hip quiver and aimed at the Necro near Kernorn (at entrance #3.)
She let loose three arrows. (OOC: first shot hits AC27 for 2hpd; second shot hits AC16 for 5hpd; third shot hits AC17 for 3hpd.)
Lian Sunday June 15th, 2008 11:22:07 AM
Lian stands in defense of Knara.
DM Jan d20+15=26 Monday June 16th, 2008 1:12:41 AM Map
Athalorn streams across the cavern in a blaze of fire, and the hooded figure (at 4) appears to watch his progress, then stretch out a hand. As the sleeve of the robe pulls away, the flesh looks withered beneath. A ray of darkness shoots out from the figures pointed finger - straight at the Shifter! Casting Ray of Exhaustion Hits AC 26 (need touch attack to succeed) IF successful: Fort DC 16 - only fatigued if successful. Otherwise exhausted.
In the center of the cavern, all hell is let loose as the crowd of monsters below the floating hooded figure turn on the orc aggressors. The monsters are rampagers - ugly, seven feet tall, thick tails and long, taloned arms, who's head seemed to have been pushed down into their chests, where white ryres and hideous teeth are on glorious display. They appear partially armed, their movements this round seem different - cohesive, purposeful, not like the confusion of before. Borden and his men have no alternative but to turn their efforts to these beasts, and the fight begins!
Oh but look! Two of the awful rampager beasts have broke away and are sniffing the air. They head right for Lian and K'nara. Their talons appear to drip with some kind of viscous liquid. One more round and they'll be upon the two Emeralds.
K'Nara's arrows whistle through the air toward a slight figure huddled in tunnel 3. Small hands are twisting in the air, which stop abruptly and the small figure takes two invuluntary steps back. Too far to hear if there any sounds of pain. Kernorn looks K'Nara's way, nods, then keeps on running. He looks to be heading toward a large cage at the upper far side of the cavern.
Ingrge's spell goes to work and halts collapse of the tunnel. Close by, the earth shifts, and the blunt figure of an earth elemental rises alongside Bert.
Down at the south side of the cavern, Gunther and Olana continue west. Close by are a group of weird-looking creatures that look like huge, drooling spiders. Spellgaunts. Right now they're huddled together, and seem confused, as they need guidance or control of some kind.
And overhead, the tiny dragons keep on flying.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength Monday June 16th, 2008 6:47:08 AM
Using a charge from his maximize rod, Ingrge begins casting and sned a fireball streaking to the area centered 19 feet above the rampagers and orcs (hopefully engulfing the floating figure as well as the top foot of the 7 ft tall rampagers) 60 points damage, reflex save DC 26 for 30 points.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +2dodge (from dodge and haste) Monday June 16th, 2008 10:07:35 AM
The elf reactivates his boots of speed and casts Enlarge Person on himself. He steps inbetween the rampagers and Knara.
Active Effects: Stoneskin 90mins Bears Endurance Freedom of Movement Blessed Hands Owl's Wisdom Boots 2/10 Enlarge Person
DM Highlight to display spoiler: {Remember, Lian is not wearing his headband of wisdom, but is wearing his Tears vs dragons and orcs.}
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+17=33 ; d20+12=19 ; d3=1 ; d20+12=32 ; 2d8+2=13 ; 2d8+2=6 ; 2d8=8 ; 2d8=12 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 10:54:22 AM
Athalorn resists the worst of the tiring magic, though he feels some fatigue as a result. Still, the burning elemental barrels into the necromancer that has attacked him, flailing with huge arms.
Hit AC 19 for 13 damage and 8 fire damage Hit AC 32 for 6 damage and 12 fire damage
Brother Bertram Monday June 16th, 2008 5:59:56 PM
Seeing that the tunnel is now safe, Bertram sends the elemental lumbering towards the nearest enemy, with instructions to attack.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+20=33 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+10=18 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 10:35:22 PM
K'Nara puts her faith in Lian's hand-to-hand skills and continues to provide cover for the retreat of Kernorn, hoping that the monstrologer can continue to lead the bulk of the creatures away from the cavern. The chestnut-maned fighter glances down at her hip quiver and notices that she's carrying some special arrows which she plucks from the container.
"You know...I always wanted to see what these things can do..." Three more arrows fly at the smallest necromancer...golden-tipped arrows.
OOC: The first arrow hits AC33; the second hits AC18 and the third hits AC18--each arrow that actually hits the necro will do 20hp lightning damage. From K'Nara's CS, here is the description for the arrows she's just used: 4 Golden-tipped arrows (+1--become a bolt of lightning when fired that strikes their target for major pain (20 pts dmg), but the lightning only effects the target it hits)
K'Nara now has only one of these arrows left.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Tuesday June 17th, 2008 1:00:35 AM
"Dis is going vay too slow!" Gunther hisses to Olana. "Let's pick up de pace." Gunther charges toward the foe that Athalorn is engaging, eager to join in.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +2dodge (from dodge and haste) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 10:34:37 AM
Lian waits for the collision.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday June 17th, 2008 11:24:33 AM
Olana nods at Gunther and quickens her pace. However, she'll stick to the wall to give herself some distance and a better viewpoint of the whole of the cavern. No telling when any of these strange beasts would stop contemplating their navels and decide to attack.
DM Jan d20+14=32 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+14=24 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+9=27 ; d6+5=10 ; d6+5=11 ; d6+5=11 ; d6+5=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; 2d6+2=9 ; d3=2 ; 2d6+2=11 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 12:02:01 PM
There is a spectacular WHUMP! and a blaze of light at the center of the cavern as Ingrge's fireball goes off over everyone's heads. One of the battling orcs turns around, giving the wizard an 'Are you serious??' look. However, despite a few frazzled topknots, the orcs fare better than the rampagers and the airborne necromancer. There are howls of pain, the necro's robe catches fire, causing him to move sharply toward the northern section of the cavern and come to land not far from Tunnel 3.
At the tunnel 3 entrance, lightning jags around the small figure already crouched there. And whatever else happened, there don't appear to be any spells forthcoming, yet.
Kernorn has now reached Edgar's cage and is fiddling with the lock.
A little further south of Kernorn's position, Athalorn and his foe battle in a whirl of flames. A blow ignites the necromancer's robe and the cowled figure hisses. He then throws back his hood, revealing a scarred and rotting face. It is a terrible visage, suggesting its subject is more than halfway down the road to lichdom. Sounds come forth through blackened teeth, and suddenly it is as though the face takes on a new dimension of horror. The approaching Gunther and Olana (both now in attack range) can only feel revulsion as they look upon it.
Necromancer casting FEAR. Ath, Gunther, Olana - Will Save DC 15 or be panicked. Partial save = shaken.
Meanwhile! While K'Nara lays down some covering fire, Lian faces the oncoming menace of two rampagers (AC 23). The monk feels the ground beneath him undulate a little as Bert's shambling earth elemental comes to stand alongside. Both are attacked abruptly and without preamble, and the rampagers swing out with their poisoned claws and nasty, long teeth:
Lian - rampagers trying to hit with ACs 32 claw, 32 claw, 13 bite, for DAM 10 +6 claw acid, 11 +4 claw acid, 9 bite damage+poison
Bert's Elemental - trying to hit with ACs 24 claw, 33 claw, 27 bite, for DAM 11 +6 acid, 6 +3 acid, 11 bite dam+poison
The dragons are still flying. The clutch of spellgaunts, spooked by the fear spell are beginning to shift toward the center of the cavern.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+23=43 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+10=28 ; 2d8+2=12 ; 2d8=6 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 1:38:00 PM
Athalorn shrugs off the effects of the fear, his strong mind almost impervious to the spell, though he is shaken.
He continues to attack the demi-lich, one attack missing but the other fiery arm crashing into the creatures torso
Hit AC 28 for 12 damage and 6 fire.
Do I get an AoO for the spell being cast?
~~Jan~~ go for it
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, flying, Bull's strength d20+15=17 ; 32d6=113 ; d20+18=29 ; 5d6=12 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:25:02 PM
Tracking the path of the necromancer flying accross the cavern, Ingrge smiles and leveling his staff toward his chosen foe, sends another spell shooting through his staff. A thin green ray streams forth Ranged Touch AC 17: Disintegrate - 113 points damage. SR 29 negates. Fortitude DC 27 for 12 points
Brother Bertram d20+8=14 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+8=28 ; 2d8+10=22 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:28:46 PM
Bertram leaves the elemental in full attack with the creature on it. He then grabs his axe and runs toward the undead, Gargul's work utmost in his mind. As he runs he shouts out, "Begone from our presence, In the Name of Gargul!"
(OOC Attempted to Turn Undead First Roll was 14 If allowed to use a hero Point my second attempt is a 20. Elemental's first attack hits AC 28 for 22)
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp d20+20=32 ; d20+14=32 ; d6=4 ; d20+9=12 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 10:31:42 PM
K'Nara plucks up her final golden-tipped arrow and shifts her aim from the small necromancer to the one that just fled Ingrge's fireball spell. Her next three shots swiftly fly at the slightly-toasty necro...
(OOC: the first shot (and final Golden Arrow) hits AC32 for 20hp lightning damage; the second shot hits AC32 for 4hpd; and the third shot hits AC12 for 6hp damage.)
LianHP 146, AC 38 +2dodge (from dodge and haste) d20+19=20 ; d20+19=30 ; d20+19=22 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+14=31 ; 3d6+7=11 ; 3d6+7=13 ; 3d6+7=16 ; 3d6+7=17 ; 3d6+7=15 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 11:40:26 AM
The rampagers try feebly to hit the large monk, but all for not.
Using his boots and his large size, the monk lets loose his flurry on one poor rampager. (Hits AC 20(nat 1), 30, 22, 21, 38 and 31, for miss (the nat 1), 11, 13, 16, 17 and 15 damage, has reach of 10 and breaks evil DR)
Boots 3/10
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Wednesday June 18th, 2008 9:13:42 PM
K'Nara waits to see if her arrows were at all effective...
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+12=25 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+10=11 ; d8+2=4 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 12:52:19 AM
Will Save 25 = shaken.
By all the trees in Culverwood, what WAS that ugly thing, wonders Olana on the approach to the necromancer currently on fire just north of tunnel 4. Her reaction toward it affects her aim. nevertheless, the arrows fly.
Probably 1 hit for 4 (dang)
DM Jan d20+14=33 ; d3=3 ; d20+14=27 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+5=7 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d20+9=28 ; 2d6+2=6 ; d20+14=15 ; d20+14=29 ; d6+5=11 ; d6+5=7 ; d20+9=12 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 1:54:15 AM
The necromancer landing to the north of the cavern is suddenly surrounded by lightning, that skitters from one of K'Nara's arrows and zig zags around his cloak. The effect is closely followed by a snakelike trail of light that sizzles on impact. And to add insult to injury - one of the orc's spears land THUD! - only six inches away. The necro now seems immobile, slumped against the wall and tiny flames still lick at his cloak.
Borden and the orcs are still busy with the rampagers. And, so it seems, are Lian and Bert's elemental.
The enlarged elf and the elemental do a reasonable amount of damage. Nevertheless, the two rampagers have enough strenth to swing in with clawed arms and terrible jaws. Attempting to hit Lian, AC 33, 27 for claw damage 6 and 5 +acid 1 and 1, and a bite ac 28 dam = 6 Attempting to hit elemental , AC 15, 29, for dam 11, 7, bite ac 12 (Icky rolls!!)
The diminutive figure in tunnel 3 backs into the shadows.
Over on the far side of the tunnel - at the northern edge, Kernorn has got the cage door open, and a hideous, giant creepy crawly thing emerges. The monsterologer clambers quickly on its back and the insect takes to the air with a rapid whirrrrrrring sound. Bert and the orcs hear that almost subsonic sound again, and immediately, the huddled crowd of spiders begin to scuttle across the cavern, toward tunnel 2, in the wake of the now long gone dinosaurs and elephants. The tiny dragons dip their wings, alter course, and head for the same exit.
As for the necromancer battling Ath (with Gunther and Olana now in melee distance, and Bert now in ranged distance), the figure stops in its tracks as the holy words of Domi echo through the cavern and his skin grows pale and sickly. The man (although it's hard to tell the gender) cackles and throws up an arm. And at once the ground begins to crack in the immediate vicinity. Four, no - five places appear like gopher mounds, and a skeletal arm reaches out from one of them.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+12=25 ; d20+12=15 ; 2d8=11 ; 2d8+2=6 ; d20+12=27 ; 2d8+2=13 ; 2d8=9 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 3:01:26 AM
Athalorn once more tries to engulf the man with flame and beat him with his powerful arms, including an attack that the shifter manages to land while the necromancer casts his spell.
Hits AC 25 for 6 damage and 11 fire damage. Hits AC 15 (miss I assume) And AC 27 for 13 damage and 9 fire damage
LianHP 146, AC 38 +2dodge (from dodge and haste) d20+19=32 ; d20+19=22 ; d20+19=28 ; d20+19=35 ; d20+19=31 ; d20+14=27 ; 3d6+7=15 ; 3d6+7=14 ; 3d6+7=12 ; 3d6+7=22 ; 3d6+7=17 ; 3d6+7=14 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 8:48:52 AM
Realizing the creature didn't fall on his last attempt, Lian continues his assault on the same creature he attacked the first time (#A). He stands his ground, Dodge going to #A. His hands and feet glow with a green flame, making him look like a pinwheel firework. (Hits AC 32, 22, 28, 35, 31 and 27, for 15, 14, 12, 22, 17 and 14 damage, breaks evil DR, reach of 10)
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement d20+6=12 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+11=27 ; d8+35=43 ; d6=5 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 9:35:21 AM
Shaken to his core, Gunther is just about to bolt from the combat when something snaps in him. No, not this time! (Will=12, Hero pt. for 21). Stepping forward, he takes a savage swing at Athalorn's opponent. His muscles flexing, Gunther grins as he cuts deeply into the necromancer. (AC27 for 43 + 5 fire)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength d20+15=35 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+15=27 ; d20+15=16 ; 4d6=10 ; 4d6=19 ; 4d6=11 ; 4d6=13 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 10:36:10 PM
Deactivating his boots and coming to the ground Ingrge looks to see where he is needed and or who needs help. Aiming his staff he lets fly with a spell through it targeting the Rampager facing Borden. Scorching Ray.
TAC 35; crit 29, for 10 points + 19 crit points TAC 27 for 11 points TAC 16 (probable miss) for 13 points
Brother Bertram d20+8=19 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=14 ; 2d8+10=15 ; Friday June 20th, 2008 7:26:44 AM
Bertram sees the skeletal figures climbing out of the ground and immediately calls upon the power of Domi and Gargul, again attempting to rebuke the undead abominations. Meanwhile the Elemental swings again at its foe.
(OOC Turn Undead 19(level 15), Elemental hits AC 14 for 15 Damage)
LianHP 146, AC 38 +2dodge (from dodge and haste) Friday June 20th, 2008 10:45:24 AM
OOC: Checking in.
Olana d20+20=30 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+10=15 ; d8+2=7 ; d8+2=5 ; Friday June 20th, 2008 1:14:43 PM
A quick glance shows Olana the situation on the ground and what looked the the beginnings of skeletons rising. Utterly glad to have Bert there laying down the holy word, she continues firing.
Maybe 2 hits for AC 30, 26, for 7 and 5 damage.
DM Jan Friday June 20th, 2008 1:15:07 PM
Working on post and map....
While various monsters and other odd looking critters make a beeline for tunnel 2 after Kernorn's call, the fight continues!
At the far end of the cavern, Ath's flames, Olana's arrows, and a deep, cruel blow from Gunther's sword finish off their foe, and the surrounding holes, their skeletal contents crumbling after the WORD OF DOMI!, shrink to nothing.
In the centre of the cavern, Lian's inspiring whirl of blows finishes off his opponant. The elemental stomps hard on the other one, and it's innards splatter outward along the ground in a gory display.
Borden's men are turning the tide, helped by Ingrge's spell, and the rampagers are vastly outnumbered.
Meanwhile, the eerie, subsonic call continues, as Kernorn - astride his giant beetle companion - appears to be herding his beloved monsters into Tunnel 2, intent on escape.
Three of the four necromancers are dead.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Friday June 20th, 2008 10:25:45 PM
"Oh, no, you don't..!" K'Nara hollers as the smallest necromancer seems to attempt to retreat down Tunnel #3. She immediately runs after the necro at top speed, in spite of being covered in opponent innards (OOC: thank you, Earth Elemental!)...
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Saturday June 21st, 2008 8:11:41 AM
The monk deactivates his boots and looks for his next opponent. Seeing a necromancer, literally, just yards away, he uses his great speed and moves for the necromancer, following in KNara's wake (avoiding any straggling spellgaunts or others). [280 feet full round movement running] He quickly othertakes Knara.
(Dodge vs necro)
Brother Bertram Saturday June 21st, 2008 11:58:38 PM
Bertram whispers a quick prayer of thanks seeing the undead crumble and stop rising. He looks over in time to see a gore splattered K'nara rushing towards the necromancer. He sees Kernom retreating with his creatures and notes with regret the loss of the unusual wolves. He moves toward the necromancer as fast as he can.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 d20+12=15 ; Sunday June 22nd, 2008 1:16:35 PM
Athalorn chases after the final necromancer also (120'), but keeps an eye on the fleeing creatures. Perhaps he should follow those instead?
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Sunday June 22nd, 2008 11:16:44 PM
Charging in, Gunther relishes kicking the last necromancer's butt.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Monday June 23rd, 2008 9:53:47 AM
Watching and sensing that things seem to be in hand, Ingrge uses his special sight to thoroughly look about the cavern. See invisibility and Arcan sight.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Monday June 23rd, 2008 11:28:00 AM
OOC: Checking in.
K'Nara, AC35; 182/182hp Monday June 23rd, 2008 9:55:19 PM
K'Nara is thinking that perhaps she is perceiving her pursuit of this last necro in slow-motion, like a dream sequence or a scene in some sappy romantic movie...but then, again...when was the last time the heroine of a love story was dripping with gory opponent innards..?
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday June 24th, 2008 12:22:01 AM
Olana lowers her bow. Was the necromancer dead? Good.
She sees most of the others dashing off toward the northeast area of the cavern, and so she heads around in that direction, skirting the current orc battle.
DM Jan 3d6+20=34 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 1:01:17 AM
As the Emeralds dash toward the north eastern section of the cavern, Borden and his men put the final touches on their own fight, bringing it to a howling and bloody conclusion.
Ingrge makes a scan of the cavern. The others' current target is lit up like a mid winter celebration. Elsewhere there is a slight shift in his perception as he begins to see what look like narrow sets of stairs cut into the walls - three of them in different places. And at the top of each - a fairly substantial magical aura - one that bleeds darkness, drawing the eye, making the head spin.
As for the monster horde, the tail end of the mad dash to freedom is beginning to disappear down the tunnel after the others. Athalorn sees two things of note - Kernorn still hovers astride the giant beetle at the entrance, and he seems to be beckoning to something. And just to the south of the entrance, a purple worm, about three feet long, is wriggling toward him as fast as it can.
Meanwhile!
K'Nara and Lian lead the charge toward the remaining necromancer who is crouched in semi darkness in one of the escape tunnels. Lian is there first. The figure throws back his cowl, and the face of a very young boy stares up at him. "No, I'm just a boy! Help me!" he says, pointing a finger at the approaching K'Nara.
There is a whisper in the air as the others approach, like a death knell. It curdles the stomach, urges one not to breathe, as the air momentarily becomes foul. It is a feeling of utter dread, and no one feels it more than K'Nara.
Casting Finger of Death on K'Nara.
Fort DC 22 offers partial save, collecting only 34 damage.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Tuesday June 24th, 2008 1:56:25 AM
Athalorn sees the purple worm, and he decides to separate and head that way, sure that the Dragons will be a match for the necromancer. He does shout to them that he has seen the creature, making sure Ingrge knows in particular. He then shouts to Kernon. Hoping his deep voice carries.
"Is this another foe Kernon? Tell me what is going on!"
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp d20+15=29 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 2:12:09 AM
The amazonian redhead pelts up to...a child in dark robes...a child who begs for mercy. K'Nara immediately drops her guard.
"Tell us how we can he--aaaAAARRRRGH!" The leader of the Emerald Dragons suddenly screams in sheer agony as the eldritch energies of the horrible spell sear throughout her nervous system, causing the tall woman to topple like a felled oak. For a moment there is no movement from K'Nara, prompting the eyewitnesses to wonder if the warrior's vaunted constitution failed her in this instance, but then her body shudders and she rolls to her side, both fists clenching as she pushes herself up off the ground so that she is on one knee and obviously healthy enough to get up.
"Someone is gonna get a spanking." she growls through grit teeth, her hazel eyes narrowing as she looks upon the face of the necro youth.
OOC: K'Nara made her Fort Save with a result of 29; she takes 34hpd though.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) d20+19=26 ; d20+19=27 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+16=36 ; d20+16=28 ; 3d6+7=20 ; 3d6+7=19 ; 3d6+7=12 ; 3d6+7=15 ; 3d6+7=20 ; 3d6+7=22 ; 3d6+7=23 ; 3d6+7=17 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 3:01:58 PM
Not even pausing in his motions, Lian thinks for a moment, Domi, forgive me if this IS a child., then he hears the unmistakible scream of his leader behind him as the boy points. Then he prays silently, Nevermind. If the kid is being controlled, he can be raised and I will be held accountable, if he is working for them, then I will make it swift. And with Knara's words ringing in his ears, "Someone is gonna get a spanking." Lian knows, Knara would do the same. He attacks the necromancer child. (hits AC 26, 27, 26, 32, 39(threat 23), and 36(threat 28), for 20, 19, 12, 15, 20(42 if confirmed) and 23(40 if confirmed))
"Hey look, this one is soft and squooshy." Cheers the elf. And he begins to laugh. (Lesser Courage, just in case)
(boots still active, 4/10 rounds)
(please disregard the d3 rolls, they were issues with my connectivity and the buttons :))
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement d20+11=23 ; d8+35=39 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 10:05:47 PM
Watching K'nara fall, Gunther is filled with a horrible rage. With no thought to his personal safety he rushes the "boy" and hacks mercilessly at it. Blood shot eyes glare at his opponent as he howls in wordless rage. (AC 23 for 39+5 fire)
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp Tuesday June 24th, 2008 10:50:51 PM
K'Nara tilts her head to one side, solemnly considering the youngster who cast such a terrible and lethal spell...then she draws her sword.
"I'd like to introduce you to a friend of mine..." the leader of the Emerald Dragons says ironically, "This is Lucia, the Bright Flame of the Culverwood." As she speaks the name of the sword, the blade erupts into magical flames. "Lucia, this is...Dead Meat..."
*Not yet, K'Nara...but soon..!* Lucia telepathically makes the minor correction in an eager tone.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Tuesday June 24th, 2008 11:35:06 PM
Marking the placement of the invisible stairs and what they lead to a shiver rus up and down his spine. and he tries to point them out to Father Bertram as well.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Wednesday June 25th, 2008 1:08:52 AM
Olana gasps as she approaches the tunnel at the north eastern side of the cavern. Lian kicking and punching, and Gunther - dear groves of Culverwood, it was just a boy! She looks toward K'nara, but their leader seems also intent on cutting the child down. What in all the wildwoods' names had just happened here? And what was that awful feeling she had felt just a moment ago?
DM Jan Wednesday June 25th, 2008 1:59:50 AM
The young boy goes down in a flurry of feet and fists, his head bouncing hard on the ground. The attack is quickly followed by a massive blow from Gunther's blade that nearly cuts the lad in two. Mortally wounded, he grins, and blood oozes from between his lips. His chest rises once, twice, and is then still. The eyes remain open, staring sightlessly up toward the ceiling.
Borden and his men approach, weapons ready, but stand down as they can see the problem has been well and truly taken care of. All of them take in the slight, fallen figure, and then Gunther, K'nara and Lian. A few eyebrows are raised. Followed by a few shrugs. Hard to guage humans. And elves for that matter. They were all dangerous, and doubly unpredictable - even the young.
Over by the other tunnel, where Kernorn and his beloved Edgar hover, the small worm approaches the monsterologer. To Athalorn it might seem a little ridiculous. Purple worms were legendary foes. But one so small as this? Kernorn holds up a hand. "Let him come. And let me leave this place with all them?" he gestures toward the retreating horde of panicked monsters thundering off down the tunnel to safety. "I can take them toward Blackbird. There are many places we can disappear. And they'll trouble no one. I swear."
As Ingrge marks the sight of the steps and beckons Bertram, something happens not long after Gunther's howl ricochets around the cavern. The darkness at the top of each set of stairs appears to fall and lose substance. A slake of it drifts past the wizard and the dwarven cleric, laced with enough dread to make the spine shiver. It carries traces of a whisper.
A temporary end, at best. You have not seen the last of me. And each time you strike me down, I will grow stronger...
Whatever lies up those steps now seems undefended.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Wednesday June 25th, 2008 2:37:37 AM
Athalorn hesitates, his body still aflame, and he nods his huge head to Kernorn. "Go with haste." He then watches the stream of strange creatures flee, before turning back to the party. They seemed to be looking up, some of them.
Brother Bertram d20+20=23 ; Wednesday June 25th, 2008 6:08:43 AM
Bertram feels the dread growing within him, he tries to identify what manner of thing they were facing.
((ooc Knowledge Religion roll 23)
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 10:39:04 AM
The monk stands, breathing heavy, looking at the orcs, and then at Olana's shocked expression. "I... he..." The hand of Domi looks at the childs rent form. "What was I supposed to do under the circumstances? What I witnessed him cast." He looks at Knara and then proceeds toward the stairs.
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp Wednesday June 25th, 2008 11:13:46 AM
The human blade singer blinks down at the lifeless body of the boy, a thoughtful frown on her face. The sword in her hand flares up for a moment before extinguishing so that K'Nara can re-sheathe the weapon.
"Sorry, Olana," the redhead tells the ranger, "Lian was right--the boy...for all his youth...cast a lethal spell. We had to attack." K'Nara turns to Kernorn.
"I wish you the best." she says to the monstrologer. "Although I don't personally agree with your outlook on creating these creatures in the first place, I believe that you all have the right to live in harmony with nature. Go with the gods." Lucia takes that time to point out what Ingrge has seen: a set of invisible stairs.
"Oooo..." K'Nara hums, moving over to where the sword tells her the flight up happens to be located, "...what's up here, I wonder..?"
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Wednesday June 25th, 2008 11:37:45 PM
Panting with the rage that is still pent up, Gunther shifts left and right, looking for something more to kill. Not finding any outlet for his aggression, the warrior's paces...quickly at first and then slowing. Finally able to control the fear induced anger, Gunther takes up a spot nearby K'nara, his hands shaking. He glares at the orcs, almost daring them to second guess his right to defend the love of his life.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Thursday June 26th, 2008 11:42:44 AM
OOC: Checking in...
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Thursday June 26th, 2008 12:52:11 PM
Olana nods at Lian and K'nara, not doubting them. It was a shock to see such a thing, but the eyes could play tricks. She backs off, and looks out into the cavern.
DM Jan Thursday June 26th, 2008 1:03:52 PM
"Thank you," says Kernorn, his words accompanied by a great sigh of relief. His beetle companion dips low enough to scoop up the miniature worm, and then they're off - down the tunnel and away.
The cavern abruptly becomes a more quiet place. Torches flicker in sconces here and there and a myriad of shadows dance on the walls. It is a gloomy place in the innards of the mountain, the overall sense of evil appears cowed, but not necessarily fully abated. A charnal house lies at the centre - dead rampagers and two dead orcs.
Borden sends three of his men to collect the fallen orcs, and his mage and three more toward stairway #3.
There's a heart stopping moment as the biggest spider ever beheld in the Wold emerges from one of the tunnels, scuttles quickly across the cavern, and enters the tunnel where Kernorn and his collection of creatures have gone.
Stairs #1, #2, #3 - who's exploring? And where?
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Thursday June 26th, 2008 2:09:53 PM
"Should we go and help them?!" He asks Knara.
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp Thursday June 26th, 2008 5:15:59 PM
K'Nara blinks as the humungous arachnid ignores everyone else in the cavern and follows the monster exodus out of the place.
"Um...no, Lian..." the leader of the Emerald Dragons says, "...I believe that we've just witnessed Alexandra--you remember how Kernorn was concerned that she might be a bit...nervous?--anyhow, I believe we've just seen Alexandra rejoin her friends. But we'll keep an ear out in case she was just looking for dinner." The tall human female looks around.
"There are three ways to go, it seems." K'Nara pointed out. "First let's see if there are any magic booby traps..." So saying, the blade singer casts Detect Magic in order to see if anything has been ensorcelled.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Friday June 27th, 2008 1:45:48 AM
Athalorn rejoins the party, and looks around at the scene. When the monstrous spider scuttles past them, he stares with a blank look of bemused fascination. What in the Wold were all these things? He shakes his head, then turns to the task at hand. "What are we expecting to find up there?"
Brother Bertram Friday June 27th, 2008 5:18:22 AM
Nothing comes to mind about what might have sent such a chill through them all, So Bertram prepares to climb the stairs, not sure what to expect.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Friday June 27th, 2008 7:39:39 AM
The elf shrugs, "I figured I'd ask."
"Whatever we find, I suspect it knows we're here." He smirks. "In any case, we might as well prepare for the unknown." Suggests the Hand.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Friday June 27th, 2008 5:42:25 PM
You want I should send a little something up there ahead of our arrival K'nara? If so speak now before our intrepid eager beavers spoil the chance?
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp Friday June 27th, 2008 9:56:19 PM
"If you have anything left, Ingrge," K'Nara answers, "Then sending something ahead would be best."
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Friday June 27th, 2008 10:02:02 PM
The warrior paces, anxious to find out what all of this was about.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Saturday June 28th, 2008 10:23:24 AM
Smiling Ingrge faces the stairs that the group is going toward (#2) and using his maximize rod sends a fireball 20 feet past the top of the stairs, 10 feet off of the ground. 60 points damage Reflex DC 24 for 30 points
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Monday June 30th, 2008 1:39:50 AM
The sight of the huge spider scuttling across the cavern, has Olana pulling her bow taught - purely a reflex, and she tracks it across the cavern.
What else was likely to come running from these unknown passageways, she wonders, and stands guard.
DM Jan Monday June 30th, 2008 1:51:38 AM
K'Nara's detect magic lets her see that the 4 dead necromancers in various places in the cavern are all illuminated by a magical aura. Maybe they have items. As for all the stairs - nothing - except for a general creepy feeling. Bert will sense nothing divine, though. What had been here, was purely arcane and rotten to the core.
Ingrge's fireball explodes spectacularly in the vicinity of stairway #2. The light it throws indicates that all three stairways have some kind of cave at the top of them, and by the lack of anything happening up there, suggests there is little or nothing nasty to flush out.
All three caves appear inert.
Borden and his men have reached the cave at the top of #3. "Gold!" announces one of them. There is a cheer.
Athalorn Huge Fire Elemental Form: AC 45 HP 112/143 Monday June 30th, 2008 2:00:26 AM
Athalorn heads to the top of cave 2, following in the path of Ingrge's fireball. If he is sure there is nothing to worry about, he changes back into human form at last.
Brother Bertram Monday June 30th, 2008 3:14:10 AM
Bertram follows the others, still worried about the unknown they had just faced. Hopefully it would meet a foul end very soon.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Monday June 30th, 2008 11:48:56 AM
The monk stands awaiting suggestions from Knara.
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp Monday June 30th, 2008 11:02:19 PM
"Well, big surprise..." K'Nara says a bit flippantly, "...all four of what's left of the necros have magic auras radiating from them--we need to check out the bodies because the gods only know what kind of arcane items might be on them." So saying she goes to the nearest dead necro and begins to remove/reveal anything that shows up with a magic aura.
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 1st, 2008 6:49:01 AM
Bertram looks at the bodies distastefully then shrugs and moves to check the body closest to him for anything that appears to be of value.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Tuesday July 1st, 2008 9:17:31 AM
Ingrge strolls along behind Athalorn waiting to see if and where his services are going to be needed.
LianHP 146, AC 38 +1dodge (from dodge) Tuesday July 1st, 2008 10:10:14 AM
"The last necromancer we ran into had that nasty staff. These guys likely have just as nasty things and likely evil things too." The elf looks with distgust at the bodies. "Sure its safe to touch them?"
K'Nara, AC35; 148/182hp d20=19 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2008 10:42:52 AM
"No." K'Nara answers Lian's question almost cheerfully. "But then, that's what being a Dragon is all about...going boldly where no adventurer has gone before and taking ludicrous chances with unknown enchantments..." She continues to search the body she had approached earlier.
OOC: Voluntary Search check is 19.
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 d20+15=17 ; d20+15=19 ; Tuesday July 1st, 2008 11:58:59 AM
While the others search the cavern and the stairs, Olana stays on 'creature alert', just in case.
Spot dc 17 Listen dc 19 ... gee whiz...
DM Jan Tuesday July 1st, 2008 12:13:54 PM
Cavern -
K'Nara, Lian and Bert check the bodies of the fallen necromancers and discover:
The orcs have formed a line from the cave - down the stairs - and onto the cavern floor, and medium sized heavy sacks are being passed along in a chain, ending up in a pile in the cavern below.
Cave #2 -
Athalorn and Ingrge reach the top of the steps are confronted by a grisly sight. Stacks of small human bones, skulls, and the desiccated remains of what look like they might have been children. Deeper in the cave, 7 pairs of small human eyes are watching the two adventurers from the shadowy depths, through the confines of metal bars.
Cave #1 still unexplored.
Olana sees no stray creatures on the loose.
Athalorn Tuesday July 1st, 2008 2:32:35 PM
Athalorn, now in human form, hurries quickly over to the small figures. Bending low, he speaks in a soft voice to them, his inner rage burning but not showing. "Don't worry, little ones. We are not going to hurt you. My name is Athalorn, and this is Ingrge Nightseer. We're going to try and help you...."
He waits for a response, and looks to Ingrge for a spell to release the children.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement d20+3=16 ; Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 12:48:12 AM
Shrugging the warrior heads over to the unexplored cavern and has a look around. (Spot=16)
Brother Bertram 4d8=17 ; 4d8=24 ; Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 7:14:08 AM
Bertram puts what he can carry into his pack to examine when the group has time. He then takes a moment to heal the wounds he just noticed on K'nara.
(OOC Cured 41 used 2 Cure Serious)
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:56:01 AM
Quietly walking up to the bars (and gate?) and takes a magical look to see if there is any sort of magical protection on the gate or the children, the old elf first looks around to see if there is a key hanging around anywhere, and then after scrabbling around in the botton of his pack, pulls out a scroll that has obviously been there for a very long time and procedes to open the gate and remove the children. Scroll of Knock (scribed by Ingrge at 3rd level LOL).
Lian Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 11:06:00 AM
The elf looks at the loot, shrugs and eyes the nicest staff. "I should get a staff some day. One always looks dignified walking with one." He says seriously. "If I adopt a casual limp, no one would suspect me a fighter of any type." He smirks, looking at Knara. "A crippled monk. You know. A hopeless Gimp." He smirks and winks. The hand of Domi, at some point during the search, shrinks back to his normal size.
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 4:23:37 PM
"Thank you kindly, Brother Bertram!" K'Nara expresses her gratitude to the dwarf as she gathers up the magic items found.
"We'll Identify them later." she says, then grins at Lian's musings. "Naw, Lian--you'd be a hopeful Gimp." The tall blade singer winks at him. After stowing the magic items into her Bag of Holding, K'Nara walks over to where Ingrge is reading from his personal "artifact."
"Wow, Ingrge..." K'Nara says, peering over his shoulder, "...your handwriting sure sucked when you were young..!" Again the woman warrior is grinning and her tone is such that it's very obvious that she is merely teasing the weapon mage.
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:50:35 PM
Bertram smiles faintly then walks over to check on Gunther at the entrance to the unexplored cave. "What have you found Blood Brother Gunther?"
Brother Bertram OOC Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:53:11 PM
(OOC Bertram is will be on vacation the rest of this week and next sunning his short gnarly body on a beach in North Carolina. He will be back, tan, rested and ready the following Monday. If he is needed Jan has my updated sheet and you are welcome to use him as needed.)
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 11:44:28 PM
The elf regards Bert, K'nara and Lian with apprehension. "Have a care with those items, we know where they've been." She rolls her eyes at the orcs hauling sacks, then continues her guard duty.
DM Jan Thursday July 3rd, 2008 12:19:11 AM
((Sorry about the late post, folks. Think we can raise some cash if we put Bert in the brothels? ;) The 4th is almost upon us, so we'll play it by ear. No worries.))
Cavern -
The orcs have now emptied Cave #3 of its contents and are standing around a pile of sacks - all full of gold pieces. Some of the orcs are stood there grinning at it, others are all business, checking their weapons. Borden is stood there looking bemused. His second in command - the mage - approaches K'nara. "Find anything of interest?" he says in perfect common.
Cave #2 -
As Athalorn speaks, the eyes watch his and Ingrge's every move. And as the Knock spell makes the cage door open with a loud ~SNAP~, they remain silent but move quickly, jumping backward, pressing themselves to the rear of the cage. There are seven of them, all boys, roughly about the same age and height of the 'young' slain necromancer. None of them wishes to be at the forefront, none of them wishes to be hauled outside to a fate worse than death. It'll take a while to coax them out, and as for talking, one word emerges - "Hungry?" asks one of them hopefully. They're in bad shape. Skinny, filthy, dressed in rags.
MEANWHILE!
Over in Cave #1 -
Gunther and Bert explore. Here there are cots, some spare basic clothing, a cooking pot and some bones of dubious origin, books, rolls of parchment, what looks like a pitcher and bowl for washing. And on a table toward the back - a single egg - about a foot long, purple and faceted, like a jewel.
Brother Bertram Thursday July 3rd, 2008 4:46:39 AM
Bertram eyes the egg for a moment then goes to the parchment, quickly examining it for anything of value as well as information.
Lian Thursday July 3rd, 2008 10:07:23 AM
Lian eyes the wizard, never having heard him before. Curious. Did this orc look familiar? Was he with the group from the beginning?
Athalorn Thursday July 3rd, 2008 12:31:28 PM
Athalorn smiles at the lads, hoping to calm them somehow. "Hungry? We can find you food. i will be back in a moment."
The druid turns slowly, and heads out of the cave to the others. "We have some captive children in here, half starved. Does anyone have some rations we can give them?"
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp Thursday July 3rd, 2008 5:34:51 PM
K'Nara responds immediately to the announcement of starving children being freed from captivity, striding over as she shrugs off her haversack.
"I have a week's worth of rations here..." she says, opening the pack and immediately fishing out the wrapped packs of jerky and dried fruit, which she then offers to the boys, eying them intently. After making sure each of the ex-captives gets a portion, K'Nara withdraws from them so that she can use her Ring of Communication and speak to the other Emeralds:
"I don't want to make everyone paranoid, but the last necro looked like a young boy...and all of the boys in the cell are amazingly like him. What are the odds that at least one of the necros knew how to...um...'jump' from one body to another--and may now be possessing one of the children..?" Even as she asks this question, K'Nara grimaces, because the last words of the boy necro had been his declaration to Lian that he was only a child--and to help him.
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Thursday July 3rd, 2008 6:16:35 PM
Ingrge responds to K'nara's query via the rings.
Well I did check them out visually, but It probably wouldn't hurt if Bertram had a looksee with his divine aids.
Lian Thursday July 3rd, 2008 7:45:38 PM
"I say we turn them all into slag and sort it out later." Suggests the elf, half-heartedly and smirking. He shrugs. "Zone of Truth all around, I say! Should be interesting. We could put them all to sleep and see if the necro can stay put..."
"Ingrge, would a Magic Circle of Protection versus Evil and a Dimensional Anchor filter out the necro-parasite? Keep it from jumping?"
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Friday July 4th, 2008 12:22:51 AM
The warrior eyes the egg warily...what are the odds that it's something good...in this place next to none. He leaves it be until Ingrge can clear it. As he hears K'nara over the ring, Gunther sighs. Oh well, at least maybe there's a chance at another fight. The prospect shakes a little bit of the ever present gloom that hangs about the warrior in this place.
Lian Friday July 4th, 2008 9:23:10 AM
OOC: Checking in... Have a good Fourth!!
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Friday July 4th, 2008 1:04:18 PM
Hmm, the elder elf thinks a moment about Lian's suggestions before responding.
Lian I think the circle could work, as long as the necromancer is not already inhabiting one of these boys or is already in the spell area. I am not sure that the dimensional anchor would work, unless they are actually shifting wold space, so to speak.
Lian Monday July 7th, 2008 11:49:48 AM
"Ingrge, If we stand in a Circle and then put all the children to sleep, might it stand to reason that the necromancer would have to return to its own body? If so, we should try to locate the necromancer's REAL body before we do anything. The original body already might be dead though." The monk suddenly looks stricken. "I just thought of something. What if there is some golem form that this necro can jump into? Like a flesh golem or even a whole series of minions? Perhaps its just using children so one is less likely to attack them."
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp Monday July 7th, 2008 10:20:19 PM
"Cast the spell, Ingrge." K'Nara bids the weapon mage, moving back to the body of the boy necro. "We'll see if I'm just being paranoid..." She unsheathes her sword as she peers intently down at the body.
"...or not."
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Tuesday July 8th, 2008 1:23:16 AM
Olana listens to the earring conversation while standing guard, and eyes the cave the young boys are in carefully. Well, things were going to get a whole lot nastier if that necromancer was hding within them. She fervently hopes this isn't the case. Better it be a monster... than this.. although she was sure that Kernorn fellow wouldn't agree.
DM Jan Tuesday July 8th, 2008 1:43:36 AM
The boys' eyes light up as K'Nara's food is offered, and they begin to push the rations hungrily between their lips. However, the attentions of Ingrge and Bert have them all clustered closely together, all scared witless once more.
There is nothing wrong with these boys apart from malnutrition. No evil can be detected. Sleep, truth - whatever is thrown at them - thse kids are clean.
Over by the fallen 'boy' necromancer. The corpse doesn't even twitch. If there's anything to back up his boasts while alive, it isn't here.
The rolls of parchment in Cave #1 seem to be arcane spell scrolls of some kind.
Lian Tuesday July 8th, 2008 10:03:58 AM
Lian seems almost ammused by the whole situation. "Well, I'm glad to see this isn't going to be easy. Life would be so boring if it was predictable."
Athalorn Tuesday July 8th, 2008 5:27:49 PM
Athalorn looks to the boys, speaking in a very calm manner. "We will keep you safe now, and no more harm will come to you, I promise. Are any of you hurt? Do you need water?" He offers his waterskin. If they are hurt, he will ask Bertram to take a look. "Now lets get you all out of here. Where is your home?"
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp d20=13 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 12:46:39 AM
Sheathing her sword once more, the chestnut-maned blade singer nods to Athalorn and Bertram.
"If you wouldn't mind keeping an eye on these lads, then, please," she asks the pair, "And find out about where they're from...whether they can go back there if we arrange for it...that would be nice." To the others, K'Nara issues a logical directive:
"These necros had to have some kind of headquarters...base...even a spot for them to catch a quick nap or the like. We need to find it and see if there are any documents or clues as to what they were doing here--and what they hoped to gain by forcing Kernorn to raise an army of monsters for them." So saying, K'Nara moves to any place that hasn't been Searched already and tries to see if she can uncover something useful.
OOC: K'Nara's voluntary Search check is 13.
Lian d20+4=17 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 12:21:28 PM
Lian moves with Knara, assisting. (Search 17)
Olana AC 26, HP 126/126 Wednesday July 9th, 2008 1:35:10 PM
Olana walks the perimeter of the cavern. No sign of any monsters. maybe she can relax, and then again... she continues on patrol.
DM Jan Wednesday July 9th, 2008 1:50:03 PM
While looking over the kids, Bert tells K'Nara and Lian that he and Gunther have already found evidence of cots and a living space, presumably for the necros, over in Cave 1. Bert found and collected 10 scrolls, which all seemed arcane in nature. And while the group were distracted by the incident with the children, Borden's mage, who had asked about any findings and not been given an answer, is now exiting Cave #1 with a large crystal egg cradled in both arms. He has a surprised and covetous smile on his face, that shows off a rather splendid array of sharp upper and lower tusks. There is nothing else in the Cave of any consequence.
Having not seen the full extent of Athalorn's fiery nature, the kids stick to him like glue, and give the orcs a wide berth. A few good dinners and some sunlight are all that seems to be in between them and good health. "Dirt City," appears to be their home.
Borden strides over to K'nara. "We should burn the bodies," he suggests, "and then get out of here. We have all the loot, and I want to make sure that monster lover is taking those creatures out of our territory. And then - "he gives her a wink - "all we have to do is decide on how to split the treasure."
Athalorn Wednesday July 9th, 2008 3:15:59 PM
Athalorn feels abashed by the attention the children give him. Usually Bertram is the caring one, not the shifter. But he keeps them close, and suggests they find fresh air as soon as possible. To that end, he begins walking towards the tunnel that the monstrologer had left through.
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp Wednesday July 9th, 2008 11:48:51 PM OOC to the DM: would that "egg" that you describe the orc mage carrying be the selfsame purple egg that Gunther secured earlier? Or is it a second egg?
~~Jan~~ same egg, left unsecured, until Ingrge could take a look at it, I believe. ;)
Not discovering anything that seems to point to what the necros' plan was supposed to have been, K'Nara nods at Borden's proposal.
"That makes sense." K'Nara agrees. "Anyone got any extra oil? I'll be happy to provide the fire..." The leader of the Emerald Dragons draws her sword and speaks its name, whereupon Lucia's magical fire flares to life.
Lian d20+18=33 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 12:02:47 PM
OOC: Said egg would not have left in orc mages care if that was the case. :) Lian would have made it clear it was not to leave without magical inspection. Besides, I don't think Ingrge would have allowed it either for that matter. ;)
Lian looks once in the direction of the thieving orc and then back. "Should he be looking THAT happy about some dodgy egg?"
Lian stands on his head to entertain the children while plans are formed. (Balance 33)
K'Nara, AC35; 182hp Thursday July 10th, 2008 7:06:56 PM OOC: Doh! Gunther DID leave the egg untouched until Ingrge could check it out--and he would NOT have minded if one of his "brother orcs" came along to do something with it...so the orc mage (who HAS been with the orcs all this time) isn't really "thieving"...it's just very, very likely that he's holding the equivalent of a magic nuke. ;D
K'Nara glances over at the mage, who is looking VERY pleased with himself.
"Wow--looks like you did find something interesting!" she points out the obvious with a twist of her lips. "All I got was some jewelry, a couple books and a cloak."
DM Jan Friday July 11th, 2008 12:30:58 AM
Borden gives out the word to some of his men, and with their oil and kindling and K'Nara's blade, the corpses of both ally and enemy are put to the torch, while Bert voices a stern blessing from Domi. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on various points of view, the entire cavern starts to smell like a barbeque.
Falling in behind Athalorn and the boys, the orcs begin to move out. "Are we going home?" asks one of the boys.
The orc mage nods and smiles at K'nara, while cradling the egg like it was a baby as he rejoins his group.
Athalorn Friday July 11th, 2008 2:09:01 AM
Athalorn keeps one eye on the orcs and the egg, and the other on the path forwards. "Aye, we are going to take you home. Sunlight and fresh air will be good for you, and perhaps we can find you some more food." He heads out of the caverns.
Lian Friday July 11th, 2008 8:38:20 AM
Lian watches the children, more to have something to do, but also to look for signs of anything out of the ordinary.
K'Nara Friday July 11th, 2008 10:39:46 PM
K'Nara makes sure that the rescued children are all accounted for.
Lian Monday July 14th, 2008 10:48:57 AM
Lian waits, having more to contribute at this time.
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Monday July 14th, 2008 10:59:37 PM
The warrior walks over to Borden's mage and bluntly asks him what he has. "So, what is that ting?"
When Borden talks about heading home, he grows somber. "Don't forget about your uncle sir. Ve vill need to tend vith dat problem ven ve get back."
K'Nara Monday July 14th, 2008 11:31:04 PM
Waiting for something official to happen...
DM Jan Tuesday July 15th, 2008 12:40:49 AM
And so!
Our heroes set off along the tunnel. This particular exit proves to be an easy one, and in the space of a couple of hours along a gradual incline, the group emerges onto the eastern flank of the mountain. Outside it's beginning to go dark, and Borden suggests a camp. "After all," he says with a big toothy grin, "it should be safe enough, for now, providing those monsters and that crazy creature lover have kept their promise."
He sends off four of his men. Two return a sort while later with two slaughtered deer. A campfire is built.
After a rough count up and appraisal, there appears to be :
(( XPs = 7,000))
Enough gold in the sacks for 15,000 GP each, and it is divided out.
Then: Ring of Invisibility Ring of Wizardry 1 Ring of Evasion Ring of Protection +3 Ring of Lightning Resistance, major Ring of Blinking Ring of Wizardry 2
4 Daze Monster scrolls 3 Magic Circle against Good scrolls 3 Shrink Item scrolls
1 staff of Swarming Insects 1 staff of Necromancy that exudes E V I L in a sickening wave.
2 Amulets of Health +4
Cloak of resistance +5
All the above in the hands of the Emeralds.
1 egg - crystal, amethyst coloured. (approx 1 ft long), in the hands of the orcs.
The orc mage regards Gunther for a second, and then pats the bag containing the strange egg. "A good question," is his answer. "A creature egg of some kind, might be a dragon's egg."
While the meat cooks, Borden lights a pipe. "It seems I need to go and talk with my uncle," he says to K'nara. "Harrassing your borders, you say?"
The seven boys are still following Athalorn around. Although the meat roasting over a spit has them somewhat distracted. It'll be a two day hike to get these boys home.
At some point, the other two orcs return and tell of Kernorn and his crowd of creatures, heading north toward the dark mass of Blackbird Forest.
Decisions required: How to get the boys home. How to divide up the non-monetary loot.
Lian Tuesday July 15th, 2008 11:46:43 AM
"Don't we have two teleport rings? Can't we accompany the boys one at a time via a teleport, might take awhile though. Or Ingrge might have a teleport circle ready?"
(Lian shows interest in the Ring of Blinking)
OOC: DM, is the XP and gold okay to add to our sheets?
~~DM Jan~~ Oh, heck yes :)
Athalorn Tuesday July 15th, 2008 12:37:48 PM
The shifter nods at Lian's suggestion. "Aye, let us get these lads back as soon as we can. Do any of you have family?" His question is directed to the boys.
Lian d8=3 d8=8 Wednesday July 16th, 2008 10:47:38 AM
Lian looks expectantly at Ingrge and Knara.
DM Highlight to display spoiler: {rolled 3 for hit points... if I remember, you can spend a hero point to re-roll but have to keep what was rolled, Right? Re-roll 8}
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 16th, 2008 3:21:02 PM
Bertram marches along with the others, glad they were leaving but still troubled by what had possed that warren of evil.
(OOC Back all Vacation was great, Had surgery when I got back, turned out to be nothing major. Bert is ready to get back in the saddle!)
K'Nara Wednesday July 16th, 2008 6:52:24 PM
K'Nara nods at Borden's words.
"It would seem so, Borden." she confirms. "As you know, the Emerald Kingdom is now reorganizing its government--I would like to be able to propose a joint venture between the Kingdom and Izen to maintain the Trade Road...this way the resources of neither of our countries will bear the complete burden of making the route safe for the merchants that both Izen and the Kingdom need. What do you think..?"
The blade singer has something to say on the strange egg-like crystal:
"I have to wonder whether or not that crystal egg thing is actually a creature of some kind." K'Nara muses out loud. "Kernorn is a very dedicated man--I doubt he would have abandoned that egg without sticking around long enough to take it back into his care...at the very least, he would have said something to us if he knew there was the egg of some creature still in the quarters of the necros." The chestnut-maned leader of the Emerald Dragons tilts her head to one side as she thinks the situation over.
"We really ought to investigate exactly what that crystal is." She glances at Lian, who is obviously eying the ring of blinking and grins.
"Sure you couldn't use a boost to your health...?" K'Nara asks in a sly sort of tone, her hazel eyes sparkling with humor.
Olana Thursday July 17th, 2008 12:17:48 AM
Once out of the mountain and back into open countryside, Olana breathes a sigh of relief. And as they set up camp, her thoughts turn to her beloved Milo. Was he still in Osto? Was he safe?
Gunther AC 33, HP133/137, SR13 Stoneskin 70/70, Freedom of Movement Thursday July 17th, 2008 12:36:33 AM
The warrior shrugs, knowing that K'nara can make sure that everything is safe and spilt up fairly. Once back in the open, the cat trainer takes a deep breath of the fresh air, never more happy to be out in the countryside once more. His dire lion roars cheerfully as he pats her on the mane before snuggling up toward K'nara. He nods at her suggestion. "Yes Borden, sir. If you need somevon to help your represent de orc Nation in any upcoming talks, I vould love to help in any vay possible."
DM Jan Thursday July 17th, 2008 12:37:26 AM
The boys answer Athalorn a little too readily. "Yeah!" "Sure we've got family." "We don't belong at the poorhouse!" Which is probably exactly where they belong, doomed to a life of drudgery - at one of the Houses, on board one of the passing ships. Out of the fryng pan, into the fire.
Borden picks a sliver of venison from between his teeth while talking to K'Nara and Gunther. "I think an alliance would be a good idea," he says. "Nothing more contentious than a border road." As for the egg, the orc leader raises a thick eyebrow and regards his mage lieutenant. "What's so special about that thing, and what were you intending to do with it?" "Sell it," answers the mage, his expression even, giving nothing away. "It's a dragons egg. It'll fetch a good price." he points toward K'Nara. "They can take a good look at it, but they stripped our enemy of their magic trinkets. There they have things of equivalent value."
One or two of the orcs are wandering around asking if anyone wants to wrestle - the Emeralds included.
Another hour or two and it'll be getting quite late. Wolves can be heard, howling in the wilds, although the campfire is likely to keep them away.
Athalorn Thursday July 17th, 2008 1:51:24 AM
Athalorn muses over the boys. He leaves the boys alone for a moment and speaks to the rest of the Dragons. "I think these lads have no home at Dirt City, though I may be wrong. If they do not, and their families are gone, shall we take them to our Tower?"
Brother Bertram Thursday July 17th, 2008 8:01:55 AM
Bertram listens quietly. He finds rock candy in his pouch, passing it out to the children after they are fed. For no other reason than to keep them quiet for a few minutes. He muses over what gold he has wondering how best to take care of the children. He is proud and happy when he hears Athalorn mention bringing them home. After the dragon attacks at the tower, there were plenty of people still grieving over the loss of loved ones. He was sure they could find each of them a home.
Lian Thursday July 17th, 2008 11:16:43 AM
"Health?" He looks at Knara. "I thought this 36K gold piece belt did that?" He pokes his finger on the thick leather belt around his waist. "You know, I thought that vampire clerk at the Catacombs was sniggering about it." He looks aggrevated. "I'll have to put my foot right up his..."
"Wrestling you say?" He says, glancing at the orc who suggested it. "What are the rules?"
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Thursday July 17th, 2008 2:24:37 PM
Umm, I think that if you try and sell that dragon's egg, if that is what it is I might have to let Maab know about that. In fact, if you want we could perhaps call her when we exit the mountain and perhaps she herself will reward you for the egg, if that is what it is.
Lian (ADM JAY) Thursday July 17th, 2008 6:40:41 PM
OOC: I'll be needing to know a few things... Is Olana DEFINITELY leaving for a time? And what are Gunthers and Bertrams levels (after updating) for the up coming module?
I am DMing us for a few months and need to know so I can slaught... murd.... brutal...... provide a fun enviroment for the DM.... I mean players.
Bertram and Gunther should also, please, consider posting their sheet in the header.
Brother Bertram OOC Thursday July 17th, 2008 8:27:04 PM
Bert's current level is 15, his sheet is updated in the woldepedia, minus any treasure from this module. I will start posting it.
Jay B ~ Thanks Mark!
K'Nara Thursday July 17th, 2008 11:53:40 PM
"We took the items that radiated magic from the bodies of our enemies." K'Nara concedes to the mage. "That doesn't mean we have to keep them for only our group...after all, your brethren collected the gold they found and yet all of us have gotten shares. So it is with the items that we won in battle. Is there anything in particular you wanted..?" She gives the mage a level look, more than willing to be fair about the orc getting his fair share of the magic items as well as the Emerald Dragons.
Olana Friday July 18th, 2008 12:20:48 AM
((OOC - yes, Jay. I need to step out for a while.))
At some point during the night, Olana approaches K'Nara.
"With your permission, I'd like to set off for Osto. I'm worried about Milo, and I thought I could scout the north western edges of Culverwood while I'm at it. It's not like I'm stranger to the forest."
DM Jan - OOC Friday July 18th, 2008 12:24:10 AM
((Folks, I'm taking three months leave. Just something I need to concentrate on for a little while. You're in Jay's capable hands. Have fun!))
Athalorn Friday July 18th, 2008 1:55:36 AM
As the party and the orcs settle into their camp, Athalorn steps over to Olana. "Take care on your journey my friend, and if you ever need anything, just call for us. He embraces her, then turns back to the camp, making sure the lads are settled.
Lian (ADM JAY) Friday July 18th, 2008 6:40:23 AM
Lian hugs Olana. "And give Milo our greetings! DON'T BE GONE TOO LONG!!"
K'Nara Friday July 18th, 2008 11:06:59 PM
post pending!
DM Jan Monday July 21st, 2008 11:29:55 AM
Final offer. The mage offers to trade the dragon's egg for 1 staff, 2 rings and 1 amulet (take your pick amongst the loot.) Will the Emerald Dragons choose to become part of the egg's destiny or not? Will it matter?
An agreement on the Izen/Emerald border - equally shared revenues, costs and protection - seems agreeable to the orcs, and should provide a fairly solid, guarded route for those traveling east and west.
The following morning, it's time to break camp. Borden shakes hands with K'Nara - a rather stimulating, bone-crushing affair - nods at Gunther, and sets off with his men. Maybe it's time to go home. The boys need delivering, and who knows what might be waiting? An adventurer's work is never done, after all.
((Jay takes over from here.)) As soon as all posts are accounted for. ;) Jay B
Lian Monday July 21st, 2008 11:59:45 AM
"Well, the egg should go to someone able to control and tame the creature. Maab is an option. A trade is agreeable to me. However, I'd say give our new friends the nice looking staff. We wouldn't want them to have to deal with the evil nasty staff, which will be destroyed regardless, I'm sure. The amulets look identical and as for the rings, I suggest the rop, one of the wizardish ones and either the invis or blinking." The hand looks KNara. "But it up to you in the end."
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Monday July 21st, 2008 5:48:10 PM
It matters not to me what the trade is, nodding to the orc mage. I just want to make sure the dragongets to where it needs to get to. No offense.
Brother Bertram Monday July 21st, 2008 7:10:29 PM
Bertram is gladdened to see the children's future being cared for as well as the trade road issue being settled. He hopes to see the egg fall into good hands but that isnt his first concern. He is still very troubled by whatever that foul creature was that disappeared early on. Sooner or later it would be back and he wanted to be much, much more prepared. He lets the others dally over the treasure. He would be content to get back home and perhaps consider how best to spend the gold.
K'Nara Monday July 21st, 2008 11:30:13 PM
"If that is your price, mage," K'Nara says, "Then you can go back to your brothers and tell them that you were able to drive a bargain with the leader of the Emerald Dragons." She grins at the mage and then speaks to Ingrge a bit privately:
"As you are the resident mage of our group, I leave it to you to pick the items to give to the mage." As soon as the deal is done, K'Nara makes sure that the egg is secured.
"You're probably right, Lian." she agrees with the monk. "We will need to find a way to get in touch with Maab and find out what this egg is and whether she wishes to take it into her care."
And speaking of taking people into their care...
"We can take the boys back to Madyrn...the facilities there will be considerably less crowded than anything that Dirt City might have." K'Nara points out. "If Madyrn doesn't have some kind of orphanage, then we can put them up at the castle and...uh...train them as pages or the like." Her canny hazel eyes swept over the youngsters. "Unless you'd rather go back to Dirt City..?"
Gunther Monday July 21st, 2008 11:53:49 PM
The warrior sighs as talk of splitting paths with the orcs comes up. It had been nice, despite the environment to be with his brethren for a short time. Now it was back to "civilization" and niceties. Before they leave, Gunther makes sure he gives the orc who he had struck on the jaw earlier a chance at a sparring match, just to clear the air. Then, after all the treasure is divvied up, Gunther nods back to Borden and gets Delilah ready for the trip back home.
OOC: Been awful busy lately. Will probably be Wed. before I can get my sheet updated.
Athalorn Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 1:40:43 AM
Athalorn waits to see where the boys would rather go. Perhaps they would come to the tower?
As for the treasure, he has no need of any of the items, and so he waits while the others discuss the finds with the orcs. But the dragon egg was of more concern. Was it of a normal dragon?
Ingrge: AC 28, HP102/102, stoneskin 70/70, SR 18, freedom of movement, Bull's strength Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:34:52 AM
Looking at K'nara for a moment and then at the Orc mage, The elder elf nods and then quickly selects the 4 items.
Ring of wizardry 1 Ring of protection +3 Staff of Insects Amulet of health +4
Perusing the scrolls he also includes 2 daze monster scrolls to the pile.
Lian Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 4:08:20 PM
The monk is happy with the trade and then seeks out the necromancers staff. Holding it in his gloved hands, he says, "I'd really like to break this in two and use it to start the camp fire tonight." He looks at Knara.
LOG ON