The Party Splits (DM Cayzle) Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 10:58:27 AM
The Pilgrims, with Manfrey, have already walked off (OOC: I mention this because Theo seemed to think they were still here. They are not.).
Harley takes the two children back to their village. Catrina says to Xenia, "Please don't make me stay there! Please take me to be a hero, like you said."
The boy has his mouth too full of chocolate to say anything.
Now Angus, Wynn, Xenia, Theo, Belkior, and Syr remain. The blue jagged tower rises over the ridge ahead, a quarter mile away. The sun is bright and the sky clear.
Angus and Belkior seem to want to ride back. Xenia, Wynn, and Theo seem to want to go to the Tower. Syr seems happy to see the Tower too, though he pretends to be resigned to it, for Angus's sake.
What's next?
=====
Private for Harley: Highlight to display spoiler: {Where exactly do you arrive back? The farm? The village? The inn at which you stayed the night? What do you do there?}
Xenia d20+22=37 Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 11:18:30 AM
"Don't worry, Cattie. We'll take you ... with us. That's pretty wild to see. Disappearing like that." Xenia reaches out a hand to pass through the space where Harley and the two children had been not a heartbeat ago. "Pretty wild."
Then she springs into the air.
"Hey, hold up." Zipping along low to the ground, the dark girl quickly catches up to the six headed to the tower. "Hold up, Marj. We're gonna go with you. Leastwise as far as the tower. Make sure nothing happens to you and all, you know."
"Sure is something, huh? That tower, I mean." Xenia rises higher up into the air and scans the terrain up ahead. "Wynn says it wasn't like that last time he was through here. Shaped like lightning, that is. Yup. Sure is something."
Rolls and Actions Spot 37 (just looking over the way ahead for anything unusual.)
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Angus Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 1:18:01 PM
Upon hearing Catrina desparate plea, Angus throws up his hands in frustration "Thats enough. The kids will not be comforatble in the village the just ran away from, as Belkior so rightly observed. Syr, please let me hold Harley flail as I want him to come back to me so that he can take me back to the kids as I originally hoped. We need to take them back to the orphanage outside of Plateau City. We can have Buckle test some of their skill for use as adventureres. I will take the kids back to the plantantion myself if I have to, once Harley gets me to Plateau City."
Angus will look to Belkior "Do you want to come to Plateau City as well?"
To everyone before the group heads in too many directions "I do not see a solution here that will allow all of us to investigate the tower and maintain our responsibility to the kids. Help me out here as Merrydale is not an option. We can even test the kids potential on the way to the plantation."
Theodore & Macaw Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 2:12:21 PM
"Hey! Wait up!" Theodore calls out as Xenia flies off after the others. Macaw takes off from the wizard's head to give chase, but the half-elf is too quick for the bird.
Theodore begins to run in the direction of the tower. He laughs as he races through the grass and over, up, and down hills.
Harley Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 9:39:44 PM
Harley teleports back to the inn. Before heading out to find Miss Ammabelle he sits and talks to the two children.
"Don't worry we won't leave you here if you do not want to stay. We will take you with us, but we need to see if we can convince your brother to come back. Can you stay with Miss Ammabelle for a short time until we come back to the village?"
Harley then takes the kids to find Miss Ammabelle. He pulls her aside and lets her know what is going on.
"Can I leave the children with you and return to my friends? Will they be safe with you and wil you be safe?"
Belkior Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 10:08:10 PM
The halfling cleric looks over at his friend and companion. Belkior shakes his head in confusion.
"Angus, I'd love to go to Plateau City. I've been meaning to make some magic items since we fought that dragon. I suppose that it only seems like months ago, but we've simply been dawdling as we go back there."
"For one, I'm wondering how Buckle is making out. And I'd like to get back to the Float, too."
"So, ready whenever you are."
More Splits (DM Cayzle) Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 7:56:44 AM
In Merrydale, Miss Ammebell is glad to see Bab and Catrina. Bab rushes to the teacher, but Catrina is a little more reserved. Harley gets the feeling that she didn't expect to ever visit Merrydale again, and she looks a little trapped.
Miss Ammebell is full of questions. First and foremost, where is Manfrey? Harley lets her know what is going on. She tells him that the children will be safe with her from any local threat. "Nothing in Merrydale will harm these ones," she says.
She asks him if the Crimson Shields will be meeting with the town council again. And can she bring Bab home to his family?
Bab clutches his chocolate and chimes in, "I want to see my mommy!" He takes another big bite of candy, perhaps anticipating that once he gets home, he won't be keeping anything that is leftover.
A Quarter Mile From The Tower Of Boydos, Belkior and Angus prepare to head back to Merrydale, then to Plateau City, then home to the Float. Angus is concerned about taking care of the kids, and Belkior is looking forward to some down time.
An Eighth Of A Mile From The Tower Of Boydos, Xenia and Theo catch up to the Pilgrims. Xenia engages Marjery in conversation. The former priestess welcomes the shadowdancer and asks to hear more about Wynn's adventures in the Tower. Why did he enter? What happened there? Theo runs up, guided by Macaw.
The Tower is getting very close. Xenia and Theo can almost see the base. It seems to be standing at the top of a low rounded hill that is cleared of all brush and scrub.
Xenia links arms with Wynn, smiling in that This-Is-My-Guy-Ain't-He-Great sort of smile. The flight of the weerdo black bird catches her eye. Theo Wizard Guy. Seems nice enough. But you gotta be a little ... different ... to hang out with something like that.
"Seems safe enough," she reports. (Based on DM's non-reaction to my previous spot check.) "But you gotta wonder why no one lives around here. Why is that, Wynn? Huh?"
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Angus Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 9:59:47 AM
Angus looks down at Belkior "Well it is you and me then, plus the kids once we pick them up."
Angus gets a smile on his lips "Do you have that Air Walk spell that Harley keeps talking about? If not I can turn us into air elemental and speed our journey back to Merrydale."
If Belkior casts the Air walk spell then the two travel that way, if not Angus will cast two extended polymorph spells so that he an Belkior can travel at 200 feet per 6 sec. for 20 minutes (8+ miles min. 12+ miles if we hustle). Angus will cast another polymorph on each of them if necessary (4 - 6 miles of travel per spell).
Theodore & Macaw Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 11:55:03 AM
Theodore catches up with the tower-goers, one arm moving in the traditional runner's pump, the other pushing against his left side.
"Oh boy!" he says, slowing to take several deep breaths. "I haven't run like that in a while."
The sight of the tower's base gives Theodore another shock of pleasure. "Almost there," he chirrups.
Macaw alights on Theodore's noggin and peers about. "Worms?"
Belkior Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 10:10:31 PM
The halfling cleric nods to his companion.
"Certainly, Angus. I suppose that I do have that spell memorized. Let me cast it and we'll fly away together."
Syr Thursday April 24th, 2008 2:42:07 AM
Syr joins Xenia and Theo, seemingly unconcerned for the children since Harley seemed more than capable of handling them. Looking ahead he asks Xenia, "Any reason why it's blue?"
Wynn Thursday April 24th, 2008 8:11:35 AM
"The last time I entered the Tower of Boydos it was a different place completely. The tower appeared to be of normal shape and made of smooth stone. It was of course a deviously magicked place. To enter we had merely to compliment a door that was shaped like a giant mouth and spoke to us. It was terribly conceited and required much reassurance about what a fine door it was. The inside of the tower itself was even stranger..."
Wynn does his best to answer the pilgrim's questions, but his thoughts are divided by the split in the party.
Harley Thursday April 24th, 2008 10:26:13 AM
"Don't worry Catrina you do not have to go home if you do not want to. This will be a safe place for you to wait until my friends and I are ready to leave back for Plateau City."
"Bab we will take you back to your mom shortly."
Three Ways (DM Cayzle) Thursday April 24th, 2008 4:34:30 PM
Belkior and Angus use magic to head back to Merrydale at flying speed -- ooc: Is this air walk or wind walk? The latter is much faster.
Harley reassures Bab and Catrina. He vouches for both their safety and the fulfillment of their destinies. Miss Ammebell volunteers to keep the two kids with her for tonight, and asks Harley to come to a Town Council meeting in the morning.
Xenia, Wynn, Theo, and Syr travel with Marjery and her pilgrims toward the Tower. As you get closer, you smell the tang of lightning after a thunderstorm in the air, although the sky is clear and almost cloudless.
At last you stand before the tower. You are about 300 feet away when you walk over a ridge and see it. It stands on a hill, blue and jagged, like a bolt of force leaping up into the clouds, or maybe down from the heavens.
You see a group of people at the base of the tower -- humans, mostly, and dwarves. If you are very sharp eyed, you may note that -- if you make a spot check vs DC25 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {one of them is Bralin.}
Note: Did Syr give Angus Harley's spare flail?
Xenia d20+22=34 Thursday April 24th, 2008 4:50:21 PM
A giant talking mouth-door. A tower that turns into a bolt of blue lighting. Xenia strides along beside Wynn as he tells his story. Everything is so weerdo here. The crazy dwarves. Everything.
But it's hard to think bad of it with the day so fine, walking with Wynn and all.
"Huh?"
"Hey! You see that?" A dark finger picks out one of the figures clustered at the base of the tower. "It's Bralin! He got here 'afore us." (Spot 34)
"HEY, BRALIN!" She waves an arm wildly in the air. "IT'S US!
"He's a friend. C'mon, lets go." And the rogue takes off at a run, down the ridge and toward the distant hill.
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Angus Thursday April 24th, 2008 5:15:06 PM
Angus enjoys Belkior's Wind Walk spell "This is great Belkior! If Harley can not get us back to Plateau City and the plantation I could travel the entire distance as a cloud. I bet the kids would love it as well."
Angus spreads his arms and enjoys the ride.
Upon arriving in Merrydale, Angus will seek out Harley and the kids "So how was everyones trip?"
Angus will bend down in front of Bab "I will hold the rest of the chocolate as it looks like you have had enough for today. We will save some for tomorrow."
ANgus will look up at Harley "So, tomorrow we head for Plateau City?"
Bralin d20=13 Thursday April 24th, 2008 6:27:28 PM
The black-armored form of Bralin stands at readiness near the base of the tower. He carries his shield, but his weapons are all stowed. His helmed head with shut faceplate swivels slowly as he regards both the group near him and those approaching from over the hill.
The dwarf makes no sign of recognition. He merely waits, looking more like an immovable automaton more than a flesh and blood being.
Belkior Thursday April 24th, 2008 10:50:24 PM
The halfling cleric nods to acknowledge the thanks from Angus.
"Glad to be of service. Now, let's see what we can do about the children. Maybe they'll want to stay here, or maybe we can take them to the orphanage outside Plateau City."
Syr Friday April 25th, 2008 1:42:23 AM
Syr smiles when Xenia recognizes Bralin, "Well, these Boydos people can't be all bad. Bralin seems to be pretty calm with them. I trust his judgement, Manfrey might be in good hands."
"Hey Wynn, I wonder how the others are doing? Personally, I'm a bit nervous, things never seem to go well when we separate." He subconsciously fingers the flail tucked into his back belt.
Wynn d20+8=19 Friday April 25th, 2008 8:03:12 AM
The bard follows Xenia towards the tower and greets Bralin with a nod of his head. He scans the tower looking for any sign that it is indeed the same place but perhaps just an illusion [Will=19]
Theodore & Macaw d20+5=13 d20+5=14 Friday April 25th, 2008 10:55:51 AM
(OOC - Can we tell how many people are at the base of the tower?)
(Theo Spot 13, Macaw Spot 14)
"Hmm," Theodore muses when they top the hill and see the tower below. "What would Bralin be doing here?" he tries to ask Xenia, but she is already running down the hill.
Theodore instead turns to Wynn. "I don't recall him saying he had business here."
Peculiar, but the others didn't seem concerned. Theodore continues forward, only tripping a couple of times, fairly irregular for the physically challenged fellow.
Xenia - OoC Friday April 25th, 2008 11:21:58 AM
Good question, Shegger.
In keeping with that, would it be possible for Xenia to get more detail with that Spot check? Not only the recognition of Bralin, but the arms and armor of each of the persons up ahead? Any spell component pouches or holy symbols. Also the details of the tower at that point and what the collective group of persons appear to be engaged in?
All of this, of course, before anyone approaches near enough to trigger any action on the part of the others. Or, because, the spot came before Xenia's hail, the details might even abort that action.
DM Cayzle Friday April 25th, 2008 7:56:17 PM
Friends, the Wold will be down this weekend for back-end improvements and back ups.
I'll post as soon as I can, but it may be Saturday morning. If you can't get online, worst case scenario. that will be Monday's post.
Sorry for the delay. Real life is nutso for me recently.
Two Scenes (DM Cayzle) Saturday April 26th, 2008 4:37:21 PM At the Tower of Boydos
It is a scene of weird chaos. A dozen dwarves in grey and white, with beards shaped to look like forked lightning bolts. Maybe half that number of pilgrims dressed in penitential robes -- new but recently beat up, stained, and scuffed so as to look worn and humble. And standing among them, Bralin, the very image of a hero -- and it is clearly he, Xenia thinks.
The dwarves are in constant motion. The pilgrims are generally still, but they become animated when one spots the oncoming group. Xenia sees signs of arms and armor under those robes. No obvious signs of casters -- though if a holy symbol is under a robe, it would be hard to spot -- or near impossible.
The Tower itself is like something out of a tale or dream. Smooth and polished blue, like jagged glass it claws its way out of the ground, thrust into the soil, maybe, from above, or trying to burst out into the sky.
There is no sign of a door.
Syr, Wyn, Theo, and Xenia in the lead come closer to the Tower -- right up to it? Syr sees Bralin and is reassured. But the monk remains nervous with the party split. That can't be good. Or safe.
Wynn greets Bralin and wonders if this is all an illusion -- it is so different from when he was here last time. But to every test he can think of, Wynn figures that he is seeing this scene as it is. Reality here truly is strange -- and perhaps this impresses on the bard the power of the demigod who sleeps here, so close by.
Theo wonders why Bralin is here. But with a little reflection, perhaps he will recall the last things the hero said to the group: [OOC: March 8 post] Bralin suggests that the party should seek the kids, and he and Sherrol's crew can head for the Ga'alians towards the Tower of Boydos.
In Merrydale
Belkior and Angus arrive in town on the back of the East Wind, and a wild fast ride it is. They find Harley and the two kids at Miss Ammebell's house, in a scene of domestic order and peace.
Angus saves Bab from getting sick, taking away a much-diminished block of chocolate.
Angus asks Harley if he too is willing to head to Plateau City tomorrow.
The girl, Catrina, chimes in, "Oh, me too! You won't leave me here?"
Belkior asks if the kids will stay here, or go to the orphanage.
Bab says that he wants his mom, but Catrina looks unhappy. "I don't want to stay! I want to be a hero, and have adventures! What orphanage? That doesn't sound heroic!"
Miss Ammebell looks unhappy. "Thank you for recovering these two. I'm sorry you did not bring back Manfrey too. But what makes you think you can just take one of our village children away with you when you go?"
"You WILL appear before the town councl tomorrow morning, right?"
Wynn Monday April 28th, 2008 7:32:26 AM
Wynn directs his questions directly to Bralin. "What exactly is going on here Bralin. Have these pilgrims gained entrance to the tower? And what of the tower, has it done anything since your arrival?"
"Hey, Marje," the rogue leans over to whisper as loudly over the commotion as she dare, "looks like you're not the only ones with this idea. I mean, lookit 'em. They're dressed in the same fake pilgrim outfits you got on."
Xenia runs her eye over group of pilgrims already up there with Bralin, picking out any children among them.
"Just where did you find this Lore you was talking about, Marjie? And what 'xactly did it say about coming in here with old roughed up pilgrim outfits?"
From the corner of her green eyes, Xenia watches the Ex-Ga'alie for the small telltale signs that speak of lying. (Sense Motive 20)
Active Effects: Message(110m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Theodore & Macaw d20+5=19 d20+18=20 d20+9=14 Monday April 28th, 2008 9:20:19 AM
Theodore continues on towards the tower. He's a bit concerned to be around such a large group of religious fanatics. He nods and smiles at Bralin as they approach.
The tower holds the most interest for the wizard. He scrutinizes the structure, trying to ascertain what it is made of, where's the entrance portal, about how big around it might be and how high it goes up. (Spot 19, Knowledge Arcana 20, Knowledge Religion 14)
Macaw is dozing on top of Theodore's head.
Angus Monday April 28th, 2008 9:32:39 AM
Angus shakes his head at the teacher "We will take Bab to his mother is he chooses and it seems he has. If Catrina wants to choose a different life it is up to her as he is of age. Also, we will meet with the council if it fits into our schedule as we are leaving with Harley in the morning."
Angus sits down next to Catrina "We are going to the orphanage as it is a safe place to test your skills. Belkior and Harley can test you for the priesthood, I with your Arcane talents and Buckle for your martial skills. Buckle is a former guardsman that lives at the orphanage. It will not be easy and you will have to work hard. Make sure this is a path you want to take."
Bralin Monday April 28th, 2008 10:42:56 AM
As the group closes, Bralin recognizes them, and raises a hand in greeting. The dwarf also lifts his faceplate, allowing the group to view an expression of annoyance.
"Hail," he answers Wynn. "Nay, the tower has not changed since my arrival. Nor have these former Ga'alites gained entrance. The priests of Boydos" -- Bralin nods toward the dwarves -- "appear to wait for a priestess. Tis difficult to assess their intent. They cast some spell that pops them from place to place with much noise but little purpose. They are most unpredictable."
His tone of annoyance rises during the last few sentences. Apparently "unpredictable" is not one of the warrior's favorite traits.
Belkior Monday April 28th, 2008 10:58:15 PM
The halfling cleric nods to acknowledge Angus' words. Belkior then speaks to Catrina in a attempt to persuade her to go to the orphanage.
"The first thing that an adventurer needs to learn is how to protect themselves. And, sometimes, learning how to protect others is a step towards doing that. I don't think that Angus was suggesting that you be a ward of the orphanage but, rather, one of the ... warders might be one word. You're old enough and strong enough to help look after the little ones. While you're doing that, Buckle can probably give you some weapons training. And we stop in from time to time, and can arrange training in matters arcane or divine if that is your bent."
"But first, of course, we will meet with the Merrydale Council."
Syr Tuesday April 29th, 2008 7:40:30 AM
Syr looks over at Marje, "A priestess huh? Wouldn't know where to find one of those, would we?"
Syr smiles at the dwarf, "Getting in should be easy, as long as we don't have to catch one of these head standing dwarves. Theo, can't you just do your thing and pop in there? Maybe open the door from the inside?"
Tower and Council (DM Cayzle) d20=11 d20=9 d20=19 Tuesday April 29th, 2008 11:08:32 AM
At the Tower
Wynn asks Bralin what is going on, and Bralin explains as best he can: They are waiting for a priestess.
Xenia sees no kids in the new group of pilgrims. She flits back to talk with Marjery as the pilgrims walk toward the tower. She seems willing enough to talk. "I know," she says, "those other pilgrims are friends of mine. They are waiting for us."
"And we wanted to show respect by wearing these simple robes. But they looked too new, so I told my friends to scuff them up and make them look shabby, out of respect, to show our humility."
"And that was my idea. Ga'al is -- was -- a proud god, and I thought it would be wise to show that we are not."
Xenia senses no sign of annoyance. If anything, she gets the feeling that Marjery is being intentionally patient. Especially when Xenia calls her outfit "fake."
Theo takes a good look at the Tower of Boydos. It has clearly been raised by magic, and likely not by mortal magic. It is 50 feet in diameter at the base, and streaks up into the air almost 1,000 feet high. It forks and branches like a thunderbolt frozen in mid-strike. The surface is glassy, and there are no windows.
If Theo touches it, then Highlight to display spoiler: {A spark of static leaps to Theo's finger when he brings it close. The surface feels smooth and cool.}
If Theo circles it, then Highlight to display spoiler: {On the far side, where it touches the earth, there is a wide crack in the base of the tower. A crack wide enough for a man to squeeze through.}
Note: Bralin can look at those spoilers too.
Theo's guess is that it might be a mythical substance called Glasteel, but such a quantity! It begs for an immortal explanation.
Syr figures that Marjery is the priestess the pilgrims have been waiting for. And he asks Theo if he could just teleport into the Tower.
Marjery calls out to the waiting pilgrims when she is in voice range. "Well met, friends! I have brought an innocent, and these good adventurers have come to keep us safe. Welcome them and greet the Innocent as the Hero he will become!"
The pilgrims join together in a reunion of friends. There are hugs and handshakes. All of the robed figures bow when they meet Manfrey, and treat him with great respect.
In Merrydale
Angus tells Miss Ammebell that Bab will go back home, but Catrina is old enough to decide for herself. He describes the orphanage to Catrina, making it sound more like a school for young heros than a place for lost souls who have no parents. She seems convinced. Even Miss Ammebell seems satisfied.
Belkior reinforces what Angus says. Both say that being a hero is hard work, and takes effort. This seems to strengthen the girl's resolve. Catrina looks down at her calloused hands. "I am not afraid of hard work," she says quietly. "Especially to be something more than what I am now."
In the morning, bright and early, it is time for breakfast again at the Thirsty Lad, and a meeting with the town council -- Simmay Swanfeathers, an elderly female halfling druid and farmer and the leader of the council; Hned Cooper, a bespectacled middle-aged man, owner of the general store; Emery Winston, a farmer and leader of the local militia; and Tem Goodbarrel, owner of the Thirsty Lad.
The elderly halfling druid starts by asking for a full report. And especially what happened to the boy, Manfrey. They have been briefed by Miss Ammebell on he way that the Hmeckers basically sold their kids to strangers, and they are not kindly disposed to the farming family.
They especially want to know if the boy is safe with the strangers. And will the girl be safe if she goes off with you. Why should they stand by and let their youths be taken away?
"Hope you don't mind me saying, Marjie. Just one girl's way of looking at things and all, you know. But, I'd think a god could tell clothes you put on special just to impress him and clothes you really wear all the time."
"It's, like, in here, you know." Xenia touches a place just over her heart. "Any god worth following can see into there and figure you, no matter what clothes you're wearing."
"That's just me, though, and my thinking. Don't know much 'bout religiosity and such."
"Mind if we stick around for what happens, Marje? Would be nice to be able to go back and tell Cattie and Bab how their brother turned out."
Theodore & Macaw Tuesday April 29th, 2008 12:42:16 PM
"I suppose I could try," Theodore responds to Syr. He looks speculatively at the purple building. "But then something that houses a god would probably have defenses against that sort of thing. Let me take a gander at it, first."
Theodore circles the tower, peering closely at the smoothness. He places a tentative hand to the structure and quickly pulls it back with a gasp. He touches it again, wincing, but not withdrawing his fingertips this time.
After circling the tower once, he returns to the others. "It seems there's a way in on the other side," he says. A hint of something twinkles in his eyes. "Anyone want to take a peek with me?"
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Harley Tuesday April 29th, 2008 3:29:14 PM
Harley adds "I can help test you Catrina once we get you out of this village. Wait till you see the Plateau City as it is the biggest in the Wold, dangerous too. You will have to be wary and listen to your teachers."
Harley looks down on Miss Ammebelle "We can not leave until the morning, so go get the council ready as we will be ready to leave after breakfast."
Harley pats Babs head "Ready to go see your Mom?"
Bralin Tuesday April 29th, 2008 4:14:04 PM
Bralin nods when Theo mentions the way in. "A crack in the ground at the tower's base," he supplies. "Tis wide enough for one to squeeze in....if they chose. I have not seen any here attempt it."
"I have send word of this gathering to Jarlwolf, requesting instructions," he informs Syr. The dwarf is clearly prepared to wait until those instructions arrive.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Tuesday April 29th, 2008 10:17:36 PM
The bard takes a seat on the grass and ponders the tower before him. "Perhaps this would be a good time to question the scroll. Perhaps it knows more of what goes on here."
ed. JohnP - to fix the link in post name
Belkior Tuesday April 29th, 2008 10:58:53 PM
The halfling cleric waits for his opportunity to address the village Council of Merrydale. Once he has been asked to speak, Belkior stands and smooths out his vestment bearing the symbol of Alemi.
"If Catrina comes with us, we had suggested that she go to a small farm outside of Plateau City. She could help run the farm and learn some skills useful either for a settled life or as an adventurer."
"Will she be safe? Very likely she will be. Certainly no more, or no less, than she would be if she stayed here in Merrydale. Will she learn about the Wold and herself? Of course she will."
"Personally, I think that she would be happier there than here. Even without ... well, how her family let her go ... I think that she wants to get out and see the Wold. This way, it would be safer and more controlled than if she simply left on her own."
Angus Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:01:32 PM
Angus is surprised by the councils reaction and is glad to hear Belkior's wise words. "My small friend is very wise." Indicating Belkior.
Angus clears his throat "Did you have these questions and concerns for the Ga'alians as they left the village with the three kids?"
Angus waits for the answer before continuing "Manfrey has choosen to stay with the Ga'alians. We attempted to change his mind we he chose to stay. We respected his decision. We want to return Bab to his mother and we accepted Catrina application for training. We leave shortly. We wish you and your village well. Bye."
Angus turns to leave.
Harley (second illegal post) Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:02:48 PM
Harley will teleport Catrina, Angus and Belkior to the Orphanage outside of Plateau City.
Syr Wednesday April 30th, 2008 5:13:27 PM
"Instructions? Bah, Where is the old Bralin? come join us for a bit. We don't need instructions to venture off the beaten path..." He pauses for a moment, "Of course that has led us to split the group three ways. There is certainly something said for order."
Syr raises his hand with a smile, "A peek? Count me in." He follows Theo around to the other side. "Maybe I or Xenia should go in first?"
Xenia 2nd Post d20+17=25 Wednesday April 30th, 2008 5:32:33 PM
The girl rogue seats herself on the grass next to Wynn, but pops right back up at his mention of the weerdo, mind-invading Wee Gee Scroll.
"Um ... " she says, sidling away from the scroll as much as she is drawn to the mystery of the crack in the ground that Bralin's discovered. "Hey, Marjie. What was it you planned to do once you got here, huh? Didn't have anything to do with crawling into a hole in the ground, did it?"
Moving up close, she turns her head and hooks her red tresses over the back of her ear. The better to hear any sounds from within. (Listen 25)
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Angus (second illegal post) Thursday May 1st, 2008 10:31:31 AM
Angus yawns deeply.
In and Out (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 1st, 2008 6:02:39 PM Into the Tower
[OOC -- just to be clear. The entrance is a crack in the Tower, not in the ground. The crack starts right at ground level, and extends up maybe 10 feet. It is about two feet wide at its widest.]
Xenia again talks to Marjery, this time criticizing her choice of clothes. The cleric sighs. "I guess freedom means freedom to do what you want. I want to wear this to show my respect, and my followers want to do as I do. Acting individually comes hard for us."
Xenia asks if she minds if her friends come in. Marjery answers, "I do not know what dangers are inside, or what you hope to gain. Please do not spoil this for us. But freedom means that you should please yourself, and I do not think the Tower will be closed to you. So come if you like."
Theo thinks about trying a teleport. He sees the entrance and tells his friends. He seems willing to enter.
Bralin tells the party that he has sent word to Jarlswolf, and is waiting for a response.
Wynn thinks about using the scroll. Of course, it has already been used once today (DM Post of 3 April). So that means waiting for tomorrow to use it.
Syr is willing to enter, and tries to convince Bralin to join the party.
Xenia asks Marjery what she intends to do in the Tower. The former cleric of Ga'al says that she does not know exactly. "The Tower is different every time it is entered, or so I have read. You cannot predict what you will find. We hope to enter, protect the Innocent, meet with Boydos, or contact him somehow, and offer him our devotion. Legend says he may bless the Innocent. Other than that, who knows? Boydos cannot be forseen."
Xenia listens to the crack in the tower (not the ground). At first she hears a pattering, like falling raindrops. She keeps listening, and hears more. Over a few minutes, she hears a voice speaking in a language she does not know. Then she hears a battle. Then silence. Then a crackling and sparking.
Marjery and her fellow pilgrims get together. Marjery casts a spell on a few of her friends, starting with Manfrey. Spellcraft DC17: Highlight to display spoiler: {Status} Then the whole group squeeze into the Tower. Three of the Dwarves come to see them enter, and start singing, "For he's a jolly good Boydos!" Do you follow immediately?
Out of Merrydale
Harley offers to evaluate Catrina, and delivers Bab to his mother.
At the council, Belkior answers the concerns raised honestly and with obvious good will. Angus is less diplomatic, and questions the town elders. "Did you have these questions and concerns for the Ga'alians as they left the village with the three kids?"
"Of course we would have questioned the Ga'alites," says Tem, "We would have stopped them! If we had known what they were up to! But we didn't even know they were in the area until long after they left!"
Angus basically declares that the council has no choice in the matter. Considering the obvious power of the strangers -- the stories of teleporters and wind walkers has got around -- the council seems resigned.
"We cannot stop you from taking whoever you will take," says Simmay, the eldest. "We are grateful that you are leaving us the little one. And we pray that Alemi will guide his priest to do right." She nods to Belkior.
Angus turns to leave, and Harley teleports his two friends and Catrina to the Orphanage. [OOC: Do I need a teleportation error check from Harley? Or do you have some way to guarantee safety?]
"Yeah." Xenia tips her head to one side and favors the ex-priestess of Ga'al with a quizzical look. "Must not be too easy to, you know, like, be free. 'Cause, dunno if you've noticed, but you're all acting all individual like by all being the same."
She shrugs.
"But as long as it, like, makes you happy, you know."
"Well? We going in?" she asks the others. "I mean, we seen 'em to the tower, and they got here just fine. I don't hear nothing inside 'xcept a bunch of weerdo noises. All seems pretty harmless to me."
"Whaddya figure can happen, huh? Boydos turns 'em into a bunch of goofpegs like them?" The slim rogue flips a wrist, pointing in the direction of the chorus of dwarves.
"You wanna go in, Wynn? Or should we just go catch up to Angus and them rest, huh?"
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Harley d100=67 Thursday May 1st, 2008 9:12:19 PM
Teleport check.
If that is not OK let me know and I will use a hero point.
Belkior Thursday May 1st, 2008 11:02:23 PM
The halfling cleric retches, staggering slightly from the effects of teleportation. If Belkior had suffered from the the short range teleporting before, this was a entirely new thing. Seeing nothing close by, Belkior carefully sat down on the ground while he waited for the Wold to stop spinning.
"Just a wait a second ... let me catch my breath ... I'll take you in to see Buckle and the children soon enough ..."
Wynn Friday May 2nd, 2008 7:41:42 AM
"If we don't go now, we'll never find them in there" the bard exclaims. He pulls Xenia up from the grass and calls to Syr and Theo. "They're going in! We'd better follow!"
Wynn moves towards the crack in the tower and readies to enter. If Syr and Theo make to enter Wynn will slip through the crack.
Xenia 2nd Post d20+17=23 d20+22=40 Friday May 2nd, 2008 8:56:35 AM
OoC: To help move things along.
Of course she follows her guy. Who could think anything else?
Holding tight to Wynn's hand, she listens for the weerdo sounds. Her sharp eyes probe for danger. Or, maybe just for any sparkly stuff that might just be laying around. (Listen 23, Spot 40)
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Angus Friday May 2nd, 2008 12:55:52 PM
Angus is pleased to finally make it to the orphanage. "Thanks Harley."
Angus looks over at Belkior "Now for the down time you were looking for."
Angus will take Catrina to Kay and Buckle and introduce her "Kay, Buckle, this is Catrina, she wants to learn the trade of hero. I was hoping that the two of you would assist me if see what qualification and talents she has. I also expect to be staying on if we can make a room for me. At some point, I will see if I can build a small house on the plantation as I think it is time to retire of serious adventuring. I hope there is room for me here."
Angus puts his arm around Catrina "Get yourself settled in as we start your training tomorrow."
-----------------------------------------
OOC: It has been fun playing with everyone, but it is time to retire Angus and move on to other things. Good Luck in the game.
Theodore & Macaw d20+20=29 Friday May 2nd, 2008 1:58:44 PM
Theodore notices the spell that Marjery casts. (Spellcraft 29)
"I guess we're going in," Theodore says to Syr. "Age before beauty!" He sweeps his hand towards the crack motioning for Syr to go in first. A silly grin adorns the wizard's face.
After Syr enters, Theodore squeezes in after him, blinking his eyes quickly to adjust to any new light sources.
Macaw has opened his eyes and gives the crack a suspicious look.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Bralin Friday May 2nd, 2008 3:23:44 PM
Bralin doesn't react to Syr's barb. "Sending the messengers fulfilled multiple objectives," he replies stoically.
Everyone else appears intent on entering the Tower. Shrugging, the dwarf follows Syr in.
Syr d20+10=28 Friday May 2nd, 2008 6:05:28 PM
Syr looks the wizard up and down... "Age before beauty? why should scrawny go first?" He snorts once and moves to the crack.
Just before entering, he looks back at Xenia with a raised eyebrow, "The last one in is a rotten egg?"
Using his short frame, he moves into the tower slowly checking for anything out of the ordinary. (Spot 28)
Stormy Weather (DM Cayzle) Saturday May 3rd, 2008 10:48:35 AM In the Tower
Xenia talks a little philosophy with Marjery, but there is not much time for more than a little. With an "excuse me," she and her fellows, plus Manfrey, enter the Tower.
Xenia asks Wynn if he wants to follow. The bard is quick with an affirmative, and gives chase, knowing that it would be easy to lose them in there.
Xenia follows too.
Then Theo, Syr, and Bralin enter as well.
It is hard to know what is ahead, since the pilgrims are ahead of you. But you squeeze through the crack, and move ahead.
Clearly there is some magic at work here. The base of the Tower is only 50 feet in diameter, but you travel for more than that before the crack opens into a room.
By the way, you all hear the grinding, like a millstone, of ground glass. Bralin notices that the crack behind you closes as you enter. You will not go back that way.
The crack opens into a large room. It is clearly an infirmary of some kind. You see beds filled with wounded soldiers. There are a few priests with glowing hands moving among the wounded, touching them.
Knowledge Religion or Bard Lore DC12 to see that Highlight to display spoiler: {these are priests of Alemi}.
But Xenia sees more: Highlight to display spoiler: {}there is something wrong with the priests. They move like they are suffering from arthritis or some joint problem. They seem pale, too. And they move with greater deliberation, and less speed, than one might expect, like they are being very careful, or something.
You hear a crash of thunder. Looking out the open windows of the room, you see that it is night outside, and there is a storm. When the lightning flashes, you see that there is a great battle being waged outside, on a flat plain that is filled with armies.
There is a door on the other side of the room.
Marjery moves to the side, and the pilgrims follow her, making room for you if you choose to enter.
At the Orphanage
Harley's teleport brings this half of the party to the orphanage outside Plateau City with exact accuracy -- and into a rainstorm. Belkior feels a little discombobulated as he gets wet. Angus is looking forward to some down time, and contemplates retiring from the heroic life.
Catrina, on the other hand, has the resiliency of youth, and calmly takes it all in.
But all is not well at the Orphanage. Kay and Buckle are glad to see you. "Thank the gods!" Buckle says. "They always seem to send you just as we need you most!"
"Fram and frangle." Xenia presses closer to Wynn, her green eyes wide with the fear of a trapped animal.
"Lookit them guys, they're moving, like, real careful. Like their old, or walking on eggs or sump'in. Wonder if it's dangerous out there?"
"If ... if you want, I can go out that door there and take a look. Don't even have to open it. Whaddya say?" (If asked to, Xenia activates Ring of Blinking. She hides and walks through the door without opening it. Outside, she takes a look around, picks up an object dropped by a slain combatant, and then returns the way she came. See rolls for more specific actions below)
Rolls and Actions Hide 40 Move Silently 33 Spot 42/Nat20 (To identify race, country, anything that might identify the different sides in the battle outside. Or, otherwise spot anything dangerous or unusual.) Listen 37/Nat20 (To identify languages or other unusual sounds of the battle. Or, otherwise hear anything dangerous or unusual.)
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Wynn d20+6=13 d20+6=16 d20+1=21 Monday May 5th, 2008 7:59:29 AM
The bard scans the area, looking for the source of the sound [Spot=13]. Wynn has been in the tower before and knows that all is not what it seems [Will vs illusion=16], He tries to discern whether the clerics are actually healing anyone in their care[Heal Check=21 nat 20].
"Stay close" he whispers to Xenia. "We can't afford to be separated in here."
OOC The die rollers appear to be broken! Fixed
Theodore & Macaw d20+9=12 ; d20+11=19 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 10:33:45 AM
"Priests of Alemi," Theodore whispers to the others. (Knowledge Religion 12)
The numerous bits and pieces of the things going on lead Theodore to believe they are in the midst of an illusion. (Will save 19 to disbelieve)
"There were no windows on the outside, nor a battle, nor a storm," he comments. "I think this is a vision of another time or place."
Although he believes they are in an illusion, Theodore doesn't know what to make of it. Was someone trying to show them something? Were they in danger?
Atop Theodore's head, Macaw sits with half-lidded eyes. He doesn't seem particularly interested in what's going on.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
OOC - See ya, Angus!
Bralin +8=8 ; +8=8 ; d20=5 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 11:32:20 AM
[OOC - not sure about the roller. Multiroll doesn't seem to be working.]
[Knowledge Religion 13]
Bralin notes the closing gap, but as Xenia has already called out a warning, he says nothing. In like manner, he makes no attempt to add to her observation concerning the priests of Alemi.
The dwarf approaches one of the priests, asking softly. "Who are these warriors? What manner of aid station is this?"
Syr d100=72 ; 1+23=24 ; 1+47=48 ; d4=3 ; 1-5=-4 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 3:54:45 PM
Moving into the open room, Syr looks around and sighs to Wynn, "It would have been nice to have a certain halfling nearby. We really need to catch up with those guys. There is only a little war in the way."
Hearing Xenia's plan to reconiter, he shakes his head, "Xenia, it's your call but it might not be best to possibly get separated out there?"
The elf moves closer to Bralin, intrigued to hear the answer of these priests and warriors.
(OOC: Wierd, Unless I'm a really bad roller, the die roller only works for Theo?)
Belkior d20+15=16 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 9:32:34 PM
The halfling cleric steps forward to greet Kay and Buckle even as the woman makes her announcement. Belkior can't help but worry since he remembers who the Crimson Shields took the house from.
"A ghost? What can you tell me about it? Is it threatening, or simply bothersome?'
While he waits for a response, Belkior remembers what he can about undead and similar things. Unfortunately, he seems to still be rattled from the teleport ... Knowledge Religion = 16 (natural 1)
Harley d100=48 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 9:38:15 PM
If Harley stays at the orphanage:
"What do you mean you have a ghost? Is it violent? Do you need Belkior, Angus and my help in getting rid of it?"
If Harley teleports back to the tower:
In the morning Harley teleports back to the spot near the tower (48) that he studied. He moves closer to the tower and casts Locate Object on his Flail. He circles the tower trying to get a fix on his Flail and/or the group. If he picks up a reading on the Flail and that it is inside the tower, but he cannot find a way in then Harley will cast Find the Path on a way in.
OOC - Remaining Spell list to follow.
Tales of Undeath (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 6th, 2008 4:48:15 PM
[OOC: I hope my players will forgive the moving hand of the Deus Ex Machina. But with Angus retiring and Belkior going walkabout for 6-8 weeks, I think the best thing is to move things forward somewhat. JohnP and JimF, please see my e-mail.]
[OOC on how illusions work. Friends, note that the old mindset of earlier versions does not apply. There is no "disbelief" roll or save vs illusion. You just get a save when you study it closely or interact with the illusion, automatically. In my personal interpretation, "study" means take a full round to just look at it; "Interact" means to touch, or to attempt to touch, or to attack, especially on a hit. An illusion's AC is 10 plus its size modifier.]
At the Orphanage
Angus decides that if there is a threat due to some ghost, then his first responsibility is to see to the safety of the children, and Catrina. He takes that as his mission, explains his reasoning to his friends, and makes an exit.
Belkior asks for more details. Harley is a little distracted, thinking about the rest of the party, perhaps in danger at the whims of a mad demigod; he thinks about returning there in the morning.
Buckle says that the ghost is a strange beast with six limbs -- but it is white and semi-transparent and walks through walls. The spectre has been roaming the orphanage calling out some name. It is really scaring the children. One of the gardeners -- a fellow named Johan that Buckle hired to help out with the grounds -- stepped between the ghost and a child that was nearby ... the ghost brushed against Johan, and his hair turned white!
At the Tower
Xenia suggests that she can go sneak around and get more info.
Wynn and Theo study the area, but it seems in every respect real to them. The storm and battle rage beyond the windows. There are moans from the wounded in the beds.
Wynn looks to see if any actual healing is taking place. It seems to him that the priests are honestly trying, and at least there is no bleeding, but the wounds on the bed-ridden soldiers are not being magically healed. He notes that the priests are moving slowly and stiffly, as if they were afflicted somehow.
Bralin calls out to one of the healers of Alemi.
Syr watches the priests. He urges Xenia to stay close.
Bralin's soft reasonable words might as well have been a shout for death. The priests recoil from him, and one shouts a warning: "We are attacked! Attacked in the infirmary!"
All four healers raise their bare hands and call on Alemi to turn you away. The hands glow -- clearly they are trying to turn you as if you were undead! Of course, nothing happens to you.
[OOC Note: Please feel free to place yourself on the map freely, within reason.]
Syr AC 31/30 HP 142 X21 d20+18=22 ; Wednesday May 7th, 2008 3:09:05 AM
Syr holds up his hands, "Hold! We are not attacking! Along with these pilgrims, we just wished to see the tower. I didn't know we were stepping into this." He waves a hand around at the wounded on the beds. In a calm placating voice, "How about you tell us what we can do to help? When we entered the tower, there was no war raging around." (Diplomacy 22) The monk walks calmly into the room as he speaks, making no hostile moves towards the priests.
Looking over at Marjery, he asks her, "Any chance you can get your people to help these priests with the wounded? I'm sure they could use an extra set of hands." With a wry grin, "Alemi might be your god of choice for the next few minutes."
Something tickles at the back of Xenia's mind. Or, rather, not the back, but the side, or something not quite in sync with what is, or was or will be. Something about going back into time, Alemi, Domi, Gargalus ...
Then it's gone.
"Dunno if I like this 'other time or place' stuff, Theo. I mean, how do you get back from something like that?"
Then her sharp eyes pick out an odd inconsistancy.
"Bralin, it's like they don't understand you. Or maybe they can't hear you. But we can hear and understand them."
"What a weerdo thing."
An idea strikes the dark girl and she goes, leaping away from Wynn's side. With a piece of chalk plucked from out of her pouch she writes in large letters on a nearby wall.
NOT ATTACKING. TRAVELERS. WE'RE LOST!
Position: W24
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Theodore & Macaw HP 42/42 AC 20 (mage armor, see invisibility, protection from arrows, total defense) Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:16:35 AM
"Whoa!" Theodore throws up his hands in a similar motion to Syr's, except not half as gracefully, and rather than an act of placation, it seems more a feeble attempt at defense. "Don't attack! Don't attack!"
Macaw flies up into the ceiling, leaving his master high and dry.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Bralin Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:52:23 AM
[ooc - Bralin is at AA22]
Bralin scowls in confusion at the Healer's response. There is obviously some mistake, but he cannot determine what caused it.
His companions jump to diffuse the situation, and the dwarf feels he can best help that cause by not doing anything. And so Bralin just stands there, watching. He does glance over at P9, looking to see if anything is obviously wrong with the man.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Wednesday May 7th, 2008 7:11:45 PM
Wynn watches in fasciniation as Xenia scrawls her message on the wall. He wonders just what the healers see that would cause them to react in such a hostile manner. "Do we appear as ghosts to them?" he whispers to Theo.
Harley Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:27:09 PM
Harley can't do anything about leaving until the next morning so he sits tight. If Belkior and Angus decide to pursue the ghost then he will help them.
Belkior Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:44:50 PM
The halfling cleric wonders exactly what he has got himself into. It could really be a ghost, or it could be something else. Either way, the orphans and other residents need to be protected.
"Where does this thing appear? Can you take to where I might see it?"
Do they know they are dead? (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:09:19 AM
At the orphanage
Angus has gone off to ensure the safety of the children. Harley and Belkior are willing to investigate the ghost itself. Buckle suggests that if they wait for nightfall, they might find the apparition wandering the halls of the orphanage, searching for something, it seems. Buckle shows them where all the ghost sightings have taken place.
After night falls, the two comrades find themselves wandering all over the orphanage. Well after sunset, when the moon is high in the dark night sky, they are on the grounds outside the orphanage proper. They see a figure materialize. It is a taur -- a centaur or a wemic, surely. The figure is dressed in simple garb, and carries no weapons. It is a male. As they watch, the figure wanders closer, and soon they can hear it.
"Domisha! Domisha! Where are you, my child! Domisha! Oh, my daughter! Where could you be? And where is your friend, Melanin! Girls? Children? Where are you?"
The undead spirit does not seem to notice Belkior and Harley.
In the Tower
Syr gestures for peace. He declares that the party is not attacking. In a calm voice, he tries to reason with the healers. He asks Marjery if she and her folk can lend a hand with the wounded.
Marjery commands her pilgrims to protect the boy. She directs three to come closer to the healers, with open hands and no weapons drawn. She calls out, "We can help you! We are healers too."
Xenia is getting a little nervous. She realizes that the healers do not understand Bralin. But the party can understand the healers. How odd!
The rogue has a clever idea! She scrawls a message on the wall with a piece of chalk. If they cannot understand speech, maybe they can understand writing.
[OOC: Xenia, please add an xp bonus of 250 xp to your sheet for a great idea.]
Wynn has an insight as well! Maybe the party appears to be undead to the healers. [OOC: Wynn, please add an xp bonus of 100 xp to your sheet for a clever realization.]
Theo echoes Syr, begging the healers not to attack.
Bralin knows that something is wrong. What is it? He looks closely at a patient.
And it seems that Wynn is right. The priests recoil from you. There are shouts of dismay, "What manner of undead are these that move SO fast!" ... "One is scrawling runes of power, or a curse, on the wall!" ... "That short one is attacking a patient!"
Bralin sees clearly that the patient before him is pale, white, cold, and clammy. His open gut wound is clearly a mortal one, and should have killed him by now. Perhaps it has! But the patient moans and turns as if in agony. Yet he is -- without any doubt -- dead!
And so is the healer in front of him. He has no wound, but he is pale and lacks the warmth of the living. He is not breathing. Surely the healers are dead too!
In fact, you note that the healers move very slowly and stiffly [OOC: They take only a move action or a standard action each round]. Their movements remind you of zombies, although these undead have minds -- delusional minds! They speak as if they were alive and you were undead!
The priests H5, H2, and H3 use their action this round to move closer ... and to take out warhammers! H4 takes a five foot step and draws a hammer. H1 casts a Bless spell.
Cayzle: probably not. Maybe a dagger or small weapon.
Xenia (AC 24; HP68/68) d20+24=31 ; d20+14=32 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 11:43:01 AM
"Farble!" the rogue swears as confusion continues to rule the day. "Lookit them! Sump'in's confoozling everything the little weerdo's see!"
"Think we can get through without hurting them?" she calls out. "If we wanna get out of here without killing 'em all down, we gotta get to the door over there."
"I'm gonna make a run over there and see what's on the other side of the door. Syr, can you draw the weerdos to you so they won't be attacking the Ga'alies? We gotta herd everyone across to the other side."
Xenia whispers to her ring, and begins blinking in and out of reality.
"I'll be back," cries the dark rogue, before she slips into shadow and flies off across the room, unseen and unheard.
Rolls and Actions Activate Ring of Blinking (7/7 round)
Hide 31; Move Silently 32 (-5 penalty taken for full speed)
Position: Z13
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(2/5m) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Question: Is Fly still in effect?
Cayzle: You got five minutes on it, right? Let's say you have 2 minutes left, OK?
Sounds good. I've changed the positioning and edited the post to reflect flying.
Bralin (AC 27, 121/121 hp) d20+16=29 ; d8+5=10 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 4:58:10 PM
Bralin frowns. These appear as undead, and yet do not.
A painful flashback to a journey through Koshe Marr provides his solution. The dwarf casts a spell and smacks H4, unleashing the healing power of the gods. He carefully watches the priest/zombie's reaction.
[Cast CLW spontaneously over Magic Stone. Touch atk hits Ac 29 for 10 hp healing/damage. If undead Will Save DC 14 halves damage]
Spells Prepared - Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, *Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), Resist Energy (cold), Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 - Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, Summon Monster III 4 - Freedom of Movement }
Belkior d20+15=25 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 10:25:29 PM
The halfling cleric tries to determine what type of undead this thing might be. It seems like something that Belkior should remember from his schooling. Knowledge Religion = 25
"Harley!," Belkior whispers. "Let's follow this apparition to see where it goes. Oh ... and don't get in it's way!"
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+4=7 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 10:39:52 PM
The bard readies to defend Manfrey and the pilgrims if necessary. One hand rests on his longsword, while the other brings his buckler to bear [Held action: fight defensively using full combat expertise - Hit AC=7; Effective AC=31]. The bard does his best to interpose himself between the pilgrims and the ghostly clerics.
Syr AC 31/30 HP 142 U13 d100=26 ; Friday May 9th, 2008 12:29:40 AM
Hearing Xenia but not acknowledging her, he moves quickly into action. Charging up on a patient, he feigns an attack on the 'man' only to hit the bed beside him rather hard. He screams loudly as he pummels the bed.
(OOC: Cayzle, I generally post Syr's ending position in the post name title, so he moved from x21 to U13)
Theodore & Macaw HP 42/42 AC 20 (mage armor, see invisibility, protection from arrows, total defense) Friday May 9th, 2008 9:54:42 AM
As the others begin to take action, Theodore collects himself and nods to Wynn. "Okay. I'll stay here with you and watch over the pilgrims."
The wizard takes up a defensive posture, planting his staff firmly on the floor and attempting a stern look.
"Stay close to us," he says to the group without looking back.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Harley Friday May 9th, 2008 1:18:18 PM
Harley nods in agreement to Belkior. He falls in behind the cleric so they both can see what is ahead of them.
Revelations (DM Cayzle) d20+5=15 [AoO misses] d20+6=20 [save for half] d20+7=24 d20+7=23 [2 atts on Bralin] d20+7=19 [att on Syr] d20+5=7 [att on G8] Friday May 9th, 2008 1:30:50 PM
At the Orphanage
Harley and Belkior follow the ghost at a safe distance. It is truly a genuine ghost -- a lost soul, a spirit drawn into the Wold for some purpose. The wemic male continues to search the Orphanage and the grounds. He is clearly looking for two girls, one his daughter, and he has yet to find them. He does not threaten anyone, although he quiets when he sees other children, and looks at them sadly.
In the Tower
Xenia activates her Ring of Blinking and heads toward the door. She gets more than halfway across the room this round, unseen.
Bralin has a key insight, and wants to cast a spell. But he does not choose to cast on the Defensive, and thus provokes an Attack of Opportunity from the undead healer. It swings: a miss! Bralin cures the undead healer (H4) -- and the fact that it is damage reveals it to be truly undead! The creature makes its save, and takes only 5 hp damage. It screams in astonished pain -- "It inflicted wounds on me!"
[OOC: Bralin, were you more than a guest player, I'd give you an RP bonus. Alas, you will have to settle for kudos and props! Well done!]
Wynn steps forward to protect the pilgrims. Theo stands fast, with the same intention.
Syr moves forward into the chamber. He intentionally misses a patient with a false swing, thus making a target of himself.
Marjery shouts, "To the door! To the door! Cross now!" She sticks close my Manfrey, and the Pilgrims start across the room. As she passes Wynn, she says, "Thank you!"
[OOC: I have taken some DMish liberties in placing Wynn and Theo. Hope that's okay. Let me know if not.]
The healers attack the two party members who are the most threatening.
H3 and H4 use five foot steps to flank Bralin, and they both attack. The two attacks hit AC24 and AC23, but both of those are misses.
H1 moves toward Syr but does not have a free path to charge. H5 does charge Syr, swinging his hammer. His attack hits AC19, a miss.
H2 attacks Pilgrim G8, who, as it turns out, is wearing studded leather armor under his robe. A wild miss.
Bralin (AC 27, 121/121 hp, Power Attack[7]) d20+10=29 ; d20+10=27 ; d10+17=20 ; Friday May 9th, 2008 3:07:19 PM
"They are undead!" Bralin calls out.
For the dwarf, the discovery simplifies matters a great deal. He draws his waraxe and slams it into H3, before stepping around it toward the pilgrims.
[Atk H3, hit ac 29 for 20 hp damage] [5' step to Z21]
(OOC - disregard second d20 roll. For some reason I thought I had a crit.)
Spells Prepared Highlight to display spoiler: { 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, *Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), Resist Energy (cold), Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 - Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, Summon Monster III 4 - Freedom of Movement }
Xenia - OoC Friday May 9th, 2008 3:11:06 PM
This round Xenia will fly through the door and look around. She will still have a standard action left after that, and what she does then, depends on what she sees. Could you please send me a description? Maybe by email if you don't want it revealed.
Cayzle Friday May 9th, 2008 5:03:46 PM
Xenia sees that beyond the door is a 10-foot wide corridor, marble floors, granite walls and ceilings, heading into mist after 20 or 30 feet.
There is no lock on the door -- it pulls open from inside the room.
No more than a fleeting shadow, the dark rogue zips through the wardroom from hell. A quick rush at the door and she's through. Like a spirit, she blinks through to the other side.
Weerdo. There's nothing here.
Just as swiftly, she backs out the way she came. Passing back through to the sickroom again, she calls out to the others.
"All clear! There's no battle on the other side of the door! It's just an empty hallway. Get everyone over here and I'll open the door."
Rolls and Actions Hide 44/Nat20; Move Silently 17 (-5 penalty taken for full speed)
Position: AF4
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(2/5m), Blinking(6/7) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Cayzle Clarifies Saturday May 10th, 2008 6:48:00 AM
Note two earlier posts: "Looking out the open windows of the room, you see that it is night outside, and there is a storm. When the lightning flashes, you see that there is a great battle being waged outside, on a flat plain that is filled with armies." And also, "The storm and battle rage beyond the windows."
There was never any indication of battle behind the door. The storm and battle in the night are outside the windows, and illuminated only by flashes of lightning.
Xenia - OoC Saturday May 10th, 2008 8:26:46 AM
No, that's true. But it's a natural assumption, that if there's a battle outside the windows, there would be one outside the door as well. Just taking that idea and running with it. Part of the charm of the tower, I'm sure.
Cayzle Clarifies Some More Saturday May 10th, 2008 8:47:49 AM
Note that the AC of the healers is 14-16, depending on dex.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+9=14 ; Saturday May 10th, 2008 12:36:07 PM
The bard moves with the pilgrims, shielding them from any attacks. [Held action - defensive fighting w/ full combat expertise; effective AC=31] "Quickly Marjery, before they can react" he urges them forward.
New Position = W15
Syr AC 31/30 HP 142 V12 d20+18=26 ; d3=2 ; d20+18=33 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+18=34 ; d20+13=17 ; 2d6+7=14 ; 2d6+7=15 ; 3d6+7=19 ; 3d6+7=23 ; 2d6+7=11 ; Saturday May 10th, 2008 8:48:12 PM
Confused the elf looks closer at the creatures around him, "But Bralin, they are priests of Alemi, these are the good guys!" As the pilgrims are herded toward the door, the elf frowns in disbelief. With reluctance, he mutters, "Never leave a foe behind you" and unleashes on the priest. (H5, Att 26,33,21,34,17 dam 14,15,19,23,11=73)
He then moves back 5' to protect the pilgrims from any rushing healers.
Theodore & Macaw HP 42/42 AC 20 (mage armor, see invisibility, protection from arrows, total defense) Monday May 12th, 2008 9:26:39 AM
Like Syr, Theodore is uncomfortable taking up arms against the priests, despite Bralin's revelation. He keeps his head on a swivel and his quarterstaff held protectively before him and manages not to stumble as he moves to Y18.
"Would you like any help, Bralin?" he hollers at the dwarf now flanked by two of the priests. His attention shifts between Bralin and H2 who is within range of melee should he decide to engage their group.
Macaw remains up in the ceiling, hopping from rafter to rafter, keeping position above Theodore.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Harley Monday May 12th, 2008 9:08:54 PM
Harley will continue to follow the ghost with Belkior.
"It doesn't appear to see us. Perhaps we can find out more about these 2 girls."
Belkior Monday May 12th, 2008 10:00:42 PM
The halfling cleric watches the ghost move through the orphanage. Harley's suggestion makes sense to Belkior but he doesn't know where to begin.
"Maybe we can pray for divinatory magic in the morning? Do you think that it's worthwhile using a Commune spell?"
Role Call ADM Scott the Southern Tuesday May 13th, 2008 12:42:47 AM
Since the newest chapter began "The shields are sundered"
A few missed DM posts as you can see, The w/e of April 26th the Wold was down and that played a factor, help us out Cayzle?
Just for consistencies sake, I didn't give anyone credit for posting multiple times between DM posting although technically, you did exactly the right thing on the days the DM didn't post.
Xenia flies through the far dor and then back again. "All clear!" she calls, beckoning to both friends and pilgrims, giving everyone a pretty good idea of her location.
Wynn, continuing to protect the pilgrims, urges everyone forward. Theo keeps pace.
Bralin attacks the undead healer of Alemi. And although his attack lands true, it fails to damage the creature. The weapon passes through the creature, inflicting no damage.
Syr attacks with even more vehemence than Bralin, but he too is powerless to harm the priests.
Marjery listens to Xenia and Wynn. "Come on!" she tells her followers. She shouts to Xenia, "Open the door, please!"
One healer shouts out, "Heal them!" All five cast spells. H1, H5, and H3 all cast defensively. H4 casts and then steps up five feet to deliver his touch. H2 casts and does not move. He is holding the charge.
Touch Attack rolls: Touch AC 19 and 17 vs Bralin. Will save 15 for half damage, please. Damages: 17 and 14; Syr
Touch Attack rolls: Touch AC 10 and 19 vs Syr. Will Save 15 for half damage, please. Damages: 16 (probably did not land vs touch AC10) and 13.
Priests are AC15. Only H4 has taken damage -- 5 hp.
Belkior and Harley watch the ghost move around the orphanage on his futile quest. They do not speak to the spirit or come too close to it. At dawn it fades away.
Belkior ponders casting Commune or other divination spell.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+9=19 ; d8+5=9 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 7:49:43 AM
Wynn continues covering the passage of the pilgrims through the hospital ward. He moves with Marjery and the others, lagging slightly behind to ensure that none of the undead clerics harm any stragglers. If any of teh clerics move to intercept the fleeing pilgrims, Wynn will engage. Once Xenia has ushered Marjery and especially Manfrey through the door, Wynn calls out to Bralin and Syr, "Let's go! We are through!"
[Wynn moves to Y12 and holds his defensive position, full combat expertise; held action hit AC19 for 9 HP, effective AC=36]
Xenia (AC 24; HP68/68) d20+29=36 ; d12=10 ; d20+19=20 ; d20+22=30 ; d20+17=34 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 9:17:38 AM
The door swings inward, as though of its own accord.
"Pile through!" The voice of the red-headed rogue shouts. "Best not go too far, though. Don't know what's out there. Cluster 'round the door. I'll check first east then west."
"Syr, can you pertect the doorway from the weerdo Alemi Guys once we're through? Keep 'em inside the room. Least till I see which way is safe?"
Then Xenia zips through the open door, rising up and up. Poised in the darkness near the ceiling, she looks first east then west, peering at the mist that stands a way down the corridor.
Questions: What is the lighting situation in the corridor? Sources? Brightness? How high are the ceilings. Might be a good idea to specify a general ceiling height for all indoor settings, DM. I tend to go 3D on a fairly regular basis. Guess I should have asked this earlier, but are we in combat rounds?
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(17/20rnds), Blinking(4/7) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Corridor Clarification (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:52:46 AM
The corridor ends in the door. There is only one way forward. The corridor is ten feet wide and ten high. The walls, floors, and ceiling are all of the same blue glassteel as the outside of the Tower. Light is present without any source. Shadows (if any) come from light sources you all might carry. The corridor gets misty up ahead 30 feet or so.
Xenia (AC 24; HP68/68) - OoC Tuesday May 13th, 2008 11:01:06 AM
Sorry, but could we get further clarification?
What door are you speaking of in your clarification? From the map it appears that the corridor runs East/West. Is that correct? By one way forward, do you mean north?
I'll probably post more after further clarification. Possibly approach the mist.
Corridor Clarification II (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:32:04 PM
Sorry for the confusion. Here's a new map.
Bralin (AC 27 (touch ac11), 106/121 hp) d20+13=32 ; d3=1 ; d20+13=23 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:45:50 PM
Theodore asks if Bralin requires aid. "Nay!" the dwarf responds, just before his axe passes harmlessly through the foe and he himself is struck by multiple spells. [Will saves 32 and 23]
As Bralin is contemplating this development, Wynn calls that the pilgrims are through. Which is just as well.
The dwarf turns and moves away from the two undead attacking him. Once clear, he stows his axe. He makes a note to correct this glaring defeciency in his weaponry at the first opportunity.
[Move 40' to AD15]
Xenia (AC 24; HP68/68) - 2nd Post Tuesday May 13th, 2008 6:50:40 PM
"I'm gonna take me a look at that misty stuff." With those words, The rogue floats down the corridor toward the mist.
OoC: If the mist retreats, Xenia will float as far as she can this round up the hallway. If the mist does not retreat, then she will leave five feet separating her square and the edge of the mist. From there, she will try to pick out sights or sounds from beyond.
Active Effects: Message(110m), Fly(17/20rnds), Blinking(4/7) Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+9=21 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 7:04:31 PM
Wynn follows the retreating horde of pilgrims, providing cover as he goes. He finally arrives at the door near the north end of the infimary, where he waits for his comrades to clear the room,
New position=AD-4 if Wynn can make it that far while maintaining a defensive posture (I note that few if any clerics stand in my way. Effective AC=26]
Theodore & Macaw HP 42/42 AC 16 (mage armor, see invisibility, protection from arrows) Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:30:51 PM
Keeping an eye on H2, Theodore takes a deep, resolute breath and moves to AA8, staff held defensively before him, ready for the expected attack. Macaw glides above the wizard, surveying the situation from up high.
Xenia's reassuring voice lifts his spirits that they are almost free, and from the corner of his eye he sees Bralin disengage and follow towards the door.
"Syr! Don't get left behind!" he calls.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Syr AC 31 HP 142 (position=rear of group) Wednesday May 14th, 2008 1:09:40 AM
Calling to Marjery, "I thought you said this was a good place for kids to get a blessing or something, where did you lead us???"
"No worries guys, I'm right behind you." He steps back quickly (5') before turning and chasing down the others. Planting him self at the rear of the group, Syr readies to push away any of the 'priests' that attempt to follow. He also gives a running commentary on anyone pursuing for those at the front of the group.
(OOC: Never figured out Syr's touch AC before but how does his wisdom,dexterity, ion, dodge, and monk bonus work so touch AC 23?) Let me know if I'm wrong.
Into the Corridor (DM Cayzle) Wednesday May 14th, 2008 10:59:02 AM
[OOC: Syr's touch AC is high enough to dodge the healer's touches.]
Xenia moves toward the mist. It is just mist, so far as she can tell, like an obscuring mist spell, to compare it with something she probably has encountered before.
The pilgrims move on toward the open door. Wynn and Theo shepherd them along. Then Bralin and Syr bring up the rear.
The undead healers see that you are intent on leaving. "Protect the patients! Let them go!" one of them shouts.
In short order, you are all in the corridor. It is constructed, walls, floors, ceiling, out of the same blue glassteel that you saw outside. A sourceless glow of illumination provides light.
Assuming that you move forward, you find that the misty corridor extends for as far as you explore. Maybe you travel for a few dozens of feet. Maybe a few hundred. Maybe a few miles. You cannot say. But eventually, one way or the other, Marjery will call for a halt to rest, unless one of you beat her to it.
[OOC: Belkior, Harley, do you wish to continue with the ghost option? Or rejoin the party? Now is a good time to teleport back, if you so desire.]
Xenia d20+17=37 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 12:45:08 PM
"I guess if Boydos was gonna make you a hero it wouldn't be the easy way. Huh, Manny?" Xenia looks back through the open door watching the scurry of undead Alemi's as the group moves off into the mist and the scene fades into the whiteness of it all.
"Seems right to me, though. You know what I mean? It's not like you go around being all heroic 'cause you got powers. Folks who got no big powers can be heroes too, you know. You gotta think it takes more guts for the guy who ain't got no pertection to run into a burning building and pull folks out, than it does for the guy who's got special training and knows he's got, like, less chance of being burnt."
"Whaddija think back there, Manny? Were you scared? I get scared. All the time." She takes Wynn's arm as they walk through the mist. "Helps to have someone around that you can rely on."
Later, the girl rogue settles by Wynn's side when the collective group pauses for a rest.
"Anybody bring any food? Water? Don't look like there's much of that here. Could be we'll need to find a way out of here pretty soon, lest we starve to death."
At intervals, Xenia listens into the mist, guarding against surprise approach. (Listen 37/Nat20)
Items Expended: Winged Boots 2/3
Theodore & Macaw HP 42/42 AC 16 (mage armor, see invisibility, protection from arrows) Wednesday May 14th, 2008 4:20:50 PM
Theodore is relieved as the priests call off the attack. Macaw settles back on the wizard's head.
"Bizarre," Theodore says, giving the others a significant look. "I sure wish I had known we'd be coming this way. I would have done some research on Boydos and his tower." Macaw shakes his head.
Theodore doesn't seem to notice that the hall stretches onward, neither does he seem to pay any attention to the mist. His interest seems focused on what's beyond the mist. What's next? What's at the end of the hall?
When Marjery asks to stop, Theodore realizes that he could use a rest, too. "I have some rations and water," he replies to Xenia as he rifles through his haversack. "Here we go."
He offers his waterskin to any who want a drink and produces five packages of rations. "I wonder how long we'll be in here?" he asks, giving his meager stockpile a stern look.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: permanent Phantom Steed: 11 hours from summoning Mage Armor: 11 hours from casting Protection from Arrows: 11 hours from casting
Belkior d20+4=10 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 9:37:43 PM
The halfling cleric considers his options, debating whether to ask questions of his god. Alemi prefers that his priests be active, so Belkior thinks that he will first exercise more mundane methods of information gathering.
"Harley, I'm going to the nearby farms to see if they can shed any light on this ghost. Perhaps it has bothered them, too, or they might know something of it's origins. Want to come with me?"
After breaking his fast and praying, Belkior will walk out the lane to the farm road that runs past the orphanage. He doesn't think that it matters which way he goes, so he turns away from Plateau City and walks to the first farm in that direction. As he approaches the farm buildings, Belkior will ensure that his vestments and other symbols of his worship of Alemi are plainly displayed.
"Excuse me! Hello there! Belkior Fitzhugh, one of the sponsors of the children next door! Anyone home?"
Gather Information = 10
Once someone responds, Belkior will pollitely visit for some time (including accepting any snacks that meet his dietary requirements) before asking any quesitons.
"Ahhh ... the children have been plagued by a ghost lately. The ghost of a liontaur, if you can believe that. Do you know anything about it?"
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Wednesday May 14th, 2008 11:46:08 PM
Wynn takes his leave of the infirmary and joins Xenia in the passageway. " I have rations and water to last one week" he tells the rogue. "They will last this group but one day."
Wynn enjoys the armth of Xenia's body against his own as she rests against him. His mind wanders back to when he first entered the tower of Boydos several years previously. Not that much had changed.since then...little made sense and mist and fog obscured the way. The bard spends a few moments cleaning the parchment of its previous questions and answers in hope of seeking advice the following morn.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 (position=rear of group) Thursday May 15th, 2008 10:07:56 AM
When the group stops, Syr remains vigilant at the rear of the party and leans up against the glass wall, "I like walking probably more than the next person but this is frustrating. Guys, we seem to be moving but going nowhere. Do you think we missed an opportunity back in that room given to us by Boydos?"
Bralin (106/121 hp) Thursday May 15th, 2008 11:17:02 AM
As Syr is guarding the rear, Bralin positions himself near the middle of the group, among the pilgrims.
A halt is called. When the subject of food arises, the dwarf looks at the priestess. If she be a true cleric, she has the ability to pray for a spell to provide food. Bralin knows he can, buts he waits to see if she'll make the offer.
As for Syr's other question, "What opportunity? We were attacked," he asks curiously.
The Next Day (DM Cayzle) Friday May 16th, 2008 12:10:47 AM
At the Orphanage
Belkior finds out that this ghost is known in the area. It does not seem to want to hurt anyone, but it has frightened many and hurt a few who came too close. It seems to be looking for someone.
No one seems to know any more details, but rumors say that the apparition started appearing not long after the orphanage was founded. It has increased its appearances, though, and focussed more on the orphanage than originally.
[OOC to Harley -- PLEASE let me know if you wish to rejoin the party here now!]
At the Tower
That night, or what passes for night here in the heart of madness, there is a chance to rest and recoup. You have the chance to gain back spells, eat, sleep, and talk.
Xenia takes the chance to talk with Manfrey. He seems a little shy but opens up to the woman. He says he wasn't afraid. "Heck no! There were more of us, and they were slow and mostly dead like." But it was very strange. He says he looked out the windows as they passed by, and he wished they could have gone to war like that. He agrees about learning more. He says he wants to learn to be a warrior, or a knight.
Marjery conjures water with a minor spell and the Pilgrims pass around bread and cheese that they had wth them.
Theo wonders about the Tower, about what is next, and about how long the party will be in the Tower.
Wynn considers asking the scroll a question. Now that it is morning, he can do so, if he chooses.
Syr is impatient with the walking and wonders if the they are wasting their time. Bralin does not seem to think so. But how can you tell in such a strange place?
As day begins, or as you think it would, were you outside the Tower, Marjery seems especially happy. "I have been praying to Boydos each day, and this morning he answered my prayer and granted me miracles to replace those formerly granted to me by Ga'al! Now maybe I can claim Boydos as my master!" She says she thinks this is a good omen.
Up ahead, in the mists, you hear a sound like thunder far off.
Wants to go to war ... That's what he said. He wants to be a hero so he can go to war.
With her bedroll folded up under her as a cushion, Xenia sits on the translucent blue floor of the tower and contemplates the why's and the what for's of where they all have come to this morning.
"Hey, that's great Marjie." With a subdued smile she looks up at the human woman and congratulates her on her achievement. "So, whacha gonna do now? I mean, what kinda things do you feel Boydos want you to go out and do?"
"We met one of your fellow Ga'alies a week or so back. He was all for beating folks down and giving them the heart seat. Said it was the will of Ga'al. What's the will of Boydos, Marjie? He want you to go off to war or sump'in? Stir up lightning in a bottle? What?"
Syr AC 31 HP 142 (position=rear of group) Friday May 16th, 2008 10:40:56 PM
Answering Bralin, "Opportunity? I was just thinking that there was maybe something we were supposed to accomplish? Talking to the patients, finding something in the room. What if Boydos wanted those undead priests of Alemi out of his temple? For that matter, are we in his temple still all I see is mist." He pauses for a moment, "Boydos is an unpredictable god right? Why make the entrance so simple as a job through a hospital? I'm thinking there was more to it."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Monday May 19th, 2008 8:45:17 AM
The bard wakes from his rest and then turns his attention to the magical scroll. "I am Wynn Brightsong", he writes. "I am in the 'Tower of Boydos'. I wish to escort some pilgrims to safety, how should I proceed? Which direction should I go? What is Boydos?"
"I hope I've asked the right questions" he speaks to the Shields as a whole.
Theodore & Macaw Monday May 19th, 2008 9:37:11 AM
Theodore wakes with a yawn and a stretch. He moves a short distance away from the others to sit cross-legged with his spellbook. He hums a tune as he scrutinizes the pages.
"Um, um, um ... You ... You sure you wanna ... " The rogue vacillates between fight and flight as her One and Only Guy prepares to take on the dreaded Wee Gee Scroll.
Finally, in the end, she presses her body up against his back, reaching around to hug him with all of the will, good thoughts, and luck that she can muster. Then she backs away to a respectful, and hopefully safe, distance.
Bralin 2d8+7=16 ; Monday May 19th, 2008 1:57:00 PM
"Mayhap" Bralin admits to Syr. "Yet, that unpredictability makes it impossible for us to know." And, having decided he will not be able to figure it out, the dwarf puts the matter from his mind.
Prior to sleep, Bralin casts a healing spell on himself, and heals his wounds. [CMW - 16 hp healed]
In the morning, he withdraws the obsidian sphere he uses to commune with The Chamber, and prays for his standard spell set.
Role Call ADM Scott the Southern Monday May 19th, 2008 2:43:09 PM
DM posts only on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Everything okay Cayzle?
Harley's last post was Monday. Did Matt mention going out of town and I missed it?
DM Cayzle OOC Monday May 19th, 2008 7:45:15 PM
Thanks Scott for reminding me. I'm sorry for my shoddy posting. Real life, yadda yadda yadda ... no excuse. I'll post tonite and every evening this week, so help me!
Boydos, Breakfast, and Beyond (DM Cayzle) Monday May 19th, 2008 7:58:58 PM
It's morning, and Xenia congratulates Marjery on her new communion with the lord of this strange place. Xenia asks Marjery what Boydos wants her to do now. Marjery answers that she has really had enough of gods telling her what to do, and she's hoping that Boydos will just let her do what she wants. That's freedom, right? So far, no urges from on high!
Syr wonders what Boydos intended by the encounter with the undead healers. He seems to assume some will or purpose or direction. But Wynn may have a partial answer ... Bard Lore DC15: Highlight to display spoiler: {Are concepts like "intent" and "purpose" inimical to the pure chaotic madness of Boydos?}
But maybe Wynn is too occupied to ponder that. The bard focusses on the divination scroll, and writes a question. A question that prompts no answer at all. The scroll remains blank.
Bralin may have an inkling at an answer, or at the impossibility of obtaining one.
Theo prepares spells (thanks for the e-mail Shegger!).
Marjery gets her folk together to go on after a simple breaking of their fasts. "Well," she says, "this misty corridor offers two options. Towards the thunder" -- the sound has continued faintly through the night -- "or away."
Trepidation and timorousness takes to its heels. "Woo, you go girl! Freedom. Yeah! Take back your life!" The dark skinny half-elfish girl raises up her hand to have her palm slapped in mutual feminine fellowship and accord by this new-born and decidedly with-it girl initiate of the Weerdo god Boydos.
"Back that way's all sealed up, guys. The wall's closed, and all there is are weerdo undead Alemi's. Lets go on, how 'bout?"
Then, without skipping a beat, she steps around behind Wynn. Behind, so as not to expose herself to the scroll in his hands.
"You alright, Wynn? Hon? Wee Gee Scroll didn't get into your head or nunthin, did it?" Concern fills her whisper as she places a hand upon the blade of his shoulder, and peers around to the side to capture any expression available from his ear, and the bone of his cheek.
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Tuesday May 20th, 2008 9:29:02 AM
Theodore reverently closes his book and stows it back in his haversack. He stands and Macaw glides down from his ceiling perch to land on Theodore's head. The bird uses beak and talons to arrange a comfortable nest in the wizard's hair.
Catching Marjery's question, he replies, "Toward the thunder, then." He looks down the misty hall, squinting his eyes. "I don't know. I hope there's not a storm within the tower. That would be silly!"
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Harley Tuesday May 20th, 2008 12:22:42 PM
OOC - Yes, out of town again. Didn't have internet access like I thought I would.
Harley wonders how to get rid of a ghost.
"Belkior should we try to solve this ghosts problem?"
OOC - is John still gone?
Bralin Tuesday May 20th, 2008 1:00:18 PM
Bralin nods in agreement to Theo. The dwarf places himself amidst the pilgrims, trusting Syr to bring up th the rear again.
The Lightning Leap (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 20th, 2008 2:01:51 PM
OOC to Harley -- My friend, John (Belkior) is on walkabout, and Jim (Angus) has retired. Maybe Harley has a dream in the night. Maybe he has some other intuition. But it might be best for all if Harley let Belkior and Angus handle the ghost off stage while Harley returned to his friends. Okay?
So the group of Crimson Shields and would-be Boydosians walk through the misty corridor toward the sound of a storm. At length the corridor opens in the middle of a glass-steel cliff! The cliff, like the side of a canyon, rises above and sinks below, at least 50 or 100 feet in each direction before getting lost in mists. There is another cliff almost 100 feet to the other side of the canyon. You cannot see the floor of the canyon below nor the sky above ... mist, twilight, and rain blocks all visibility after 50 to 100 feet.
It IS raining, hard. And there are bolts of lightning striking with great frequency. You have to shout to be heard.
Columns rise from the floor of the canyon, to about your current height. They are like stepping stones in the river of mist below you. Wet, slippery stepping stones.
The lightning often hits these stepping stones when it crashes down.
On the far side of the canyon you can just about make out another opening across from you.
Syr Tuesday May 20th, 2008 5:35:45 PM
Syr peers out into the mist trying to discern what the holdup is for. Seeing the chasm, he frowns in puzzlement, "Boydos likes a challenge, eh?" Calling out to Xenia, "If we have no other choice, I would guess that the best person to test it is either you or I? What do you think?" The elf hunches his shoulders, when a blast of thunder is particularly close and the sound shakes the group, "Any chance we can put some sort of rod on one of the far 'islands' to make sure we and the pilgrims avoid the lightning? If Angus were here, I'd bet he could levitate something over there to attract it. Personally, I can't think of anything that I have."
"I can get across, Syr." The dark rogue squints her eyes as she estimates the intervening distance. "I can fly across easy enough. Gonna do that now, in fact."
"I'm not worried 'bout me or us." She begins to un-do the bundle and run the length into a loose coil. "But we gotta get all these folks safe across, and far as that goes, I'm less worried 'bout the lightning, than I am about them falling down into that ... well, that wherever it goes down there." She reaches into her haversack.
*flup*
A coil of silk rope hits the floor.
"Looks to be some eighty, ninety feet 'cross to the other side. If anyone's got another coil of rope, we can span the gap with a guide rope. Maybe we can even rig a harness so's folks can climb over."
"First, though, I'm gonna take a look over to the other side."
She leaves the rope in a neat coil and whispers, first to her boots and then to her ring. Her slim form begins to blink, tricking the eye.
"Be back in a jiff." She says, and then fades into the sporadic shadows.
Shooting across the chasm, the rogue fetches up on the east side of the far opening. Spots play across her eyes, afterimages from the latest flash of lightning. She ducks her head around the corner for a look. She listens for sound. Then she flies back across.
Rolls and Actions Hide 28 (-5 Penalty for full movement), Spot 23/Nat1, Listen 24
Active Effects: Fly 5/5min, Blinking 6/7 rounds
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+4=21 ; Wednesday May 21st, 2008 8:02:47 AM
The bard pulls a matching length of rope from his pack and ties the two together with a secure blood knot. "I've nothing to act as a lightning rod" he calls out above the thunder. "Does anyone have any protection spells that we might ward ourselves with?
Wynn anxiously waits for Xenia's return. Potion in hand, he is ready to fly in pursuit at a moments notice
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Wednesday May 21st, 2008 10:40:02 AM
"Oh...wow." Theodore sweeps the impressive view with his hungry eyes. "It looks dangerous."
Macaw pecks his head to bring the wizard back to reality. Theodore blinks as he redirects his attention back to his friends.
"Unfortunately I have neither rope or a metal rod." He smiles to himself as the image of a particular gnome shaking his head in disappointment comes to mind. "I could take three others over to the other side without worrying about lightning or falling," he declares. "But that would be all for today. I can also give one person some resistance to the lightning."
He then watches as Xenia flies out into the storm. "Oh, please be careful."
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Bralin Wednesday May 21st, 2008 4:23:07 PM
Totally encased in metal, Bralin regards the lightning strokes with a sour expression.
"I too have a flying potion," he volunteers. "As well as a spell that may provide a single person some resistance to electricity."
Faced with the lightning storm and a seemingly bottomless chasm, Syr has the interesting idea of using a lightning rod to draw the bolts away from the party. But what rod?
Xenia points out that the greatest risk may be to the pilgrims. She suggests a guiderope and harness to help others across.
But first, she scouts it out. She flies across. On the way across, just by chance, one bolt strikes down next to her. Xenia, please make a Reflex save vs DC14 or take 8 damage (save for half (or none with evasion)). On the far side she sees that the tunnel continues and gets misty again. On the way back, it's another bolt that comes close, for another save or take 17/8/0.
Wynn is ready to fly to Xenia's aid, but she seems able to handle it. He gets a rope ready.
Theo volunteers thoughts about how his magic might help. He seems very aware of the danger.
Bralin too might have an answer using magic. But how much magic will it cost to bring everyone over?
Marjery, listening, seems grateful that you all are concerned for her people. "If you can get Manfrey across unharmed, that is the best I could ask. The rest of us can try with a rope and hopping from island to island. I too can offer some lightning resistance. It did occur to me that we might face shock damage today!"
Twice, the plucky rogue veers, avoiding the lightning strikes at the very last moment, arriving back completely unscathed.
"Nothin' on the other side." (At least I assume so, Cayzle, as you mentioned nothing about the spot and listen checks.) "Clear to go. 'Xcept for the lightning. That's some pretty mean stuff up there. I know our guys can take a strike or two. But, I'm not sure about the rest."
"We need someone strong on both ends to hold the rope down. Less we got pitons. Anybody got pitons?" (Would Pitons be part of a climbing kit? If so, Xenia will hammer one home.)
"I'll go back across and watch the tunnel. I can dodge the lightning. 'Can almost see it coming before it starts."
Rolls and Actions Reflex 21 & 20 (No damage from Evasion.)
Active Effects: Fly 47/50 rnds, Blinking 5/7 rounds
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3
DM Cayzle Thursday May 22nd, 2008 4:53:34 PM
Yup, nothing else of note on the other side.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] d20+6=14 ; d20+11=29 ; Thursday May 22nd, 2008 8:34:20 PM
Wynn takes a quick rummage through his pack, but as he suspected, there are no pitons. I can always use this fly potion to get someone across, but I cannot protect anyone from the storm." Wynn offers the potion to Syr if he wishes to escort the young lad across the chasm.
When it is Wynn's turn to cross he nimbly makes his way from outcrop to outcrop [Balance=14] and dodges any lightning [Reflex=29; rink of blinking activated to take 1/4 damage?]
Harley Thursday May 22nd, 2008 9:20:10 PM
Harley finds Angus and Belkior. "I think you guys can handle the ghost. I will travel back to the group as they may need a healer even though I am not as good at that as Belkior."
"Take care my new friends and be safe."
Harley will teleport abck to the tower an try to find a way in.
Xenia (2nd Post) Friday May 23rd, 2008 8:57:57 AM
"Did I hear someone say sump'in 'bout a metal rod?" the rogue says upon her return.
"I got a crowbar. That might work. Don't know how you'd set it, but I could fly it out to wherever you needed it."
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Friday May 23rd, 2008 9:11:13 AM
Theodore shakes his head as he looks again out over the lightning riddled chasm. "Well, I'd be halfway towards the bottom before I'm halfway towards the other side. I'm just going to blip over there. I can take three others with me."
He motions for Manfrey to come stand by him. "Two more."
Xenia eyes the assembled group and her gaze rests upon her ex-dwarven companion.
"Um, considering all the climbing and dodging and zipping that's gonna have to happen out there ... maybe you better take Bralin too."
(OoC: Anyone else amongst the pilgrims who looks like they might also be slow or encumbered?)
Bralin Friday May 23rd, 2008 10:14:13 AM
Bralin's sour look continues, as Xenia points out his obvious lack of mobility. The dwarf pulls out a potion and hands it to the priestess. "Flying potion" he tells her.
Looking back to Xenia, he says with certainty, "Once I am across, If ye can get the iron bar over to those pillars [points to I22], I can summon aid to set it."
With that, he joins Theo.
Jumping Jacks! (DM Cayzle) Friday May 23rd, 2008 12:42:48 PM
Wynn chooses to hop from "island" to "island.
It is a DC11 Jump check to hop across a five foot gap. DC21 to hop a 10 foot gap. Don't worry about diagonals. The very first jump is at DC6 or 11 because you can get a running start. These DCs include a +1 circumstance mod for rain and slipperiness.
If you fail a jump check by less than 5, you don't clear the distance, but you can make a DC 15 Reflex save to grab the far edge of the gap. You end your movement grasping the far edge. Getting up then requires a DC 15 Climb check.
When you land, make a Reflex DC save vs lightning bolt. Damage is 3d10 -- you can roll your own damage as you hop. If you are dangling and you fail your save vs lightning, then make another climb dc 10 check or fall.
Keep in mind the MAP! The way I figure it, the path requiring the fewest jumps is this:
O10-O13 - DC11 with running start. O13-O15 - DC11 Then walk to O17 O17-R20 - DC21 R20-P22 - DC11 Either P22-O24 and O24-O26 - TWO DC11 checks OR R23-P26 ONE DC21 check.
That's either 5 or 6 saves vs lightning.
Note that you cannot take 10 or 20.
If Wynn still wants to try it, get rolling!
Xenia offers to hold a crowbar and fly it somewhere. But how to ground it?
Theo expects to use dimensional magic to get across. He offers to take three with him. Two plus Manfrey.
Xenia thinks Theo should take the stalwarty Bralin. But the dwarf has a fly potion. Bralin tells Xenia he has a way to help ground the crowbar/rod.
Manfrey says, "How can I be a hero if everyone keeps treating me like a baby! Let me jump! You can, um, tie a rope on me or something."
Marjery answers, "You'll do what's right and that's that!" She does not seem to have convinced him, judging by the boy's defiant look.
========
Outside the Tower, Harley appears. A gang of electric dwarves comes up to him. One hops up and says, "Hey!" Another hops and says "Ho!" They start alternating their hopping and greetings among themselves: "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!" "Hey!" "Ho!"
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Friday May 23rd, 2008 7:24:04 PM
The bard readies to leap from pillar to pillar and then thinks the better of it. One of the gaps looks a little to far for him and he rethinks the situation.
Xenia darts back out into the chasm, trailing the rope behind her. She follows the direction of the armored dwarve's pointed finger to the column of rock standing off to the side.
Once there, she quickly draws out the crowbar and drops it on the surface of the column before darting away again to the far ledge.
"All set!" she calls. "Someone come over to help anchor this end."
Active Effects: Fly 45/50 rnds, Blinking 3/7 rounds
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3
Syr Sunday May 25th, 2008 8:10:01 PM
Seeing Wynn begin to make the trek across, the elf unwinds his rope and begins making a harness on the first pilgrim telling him, "Just untie it once you get across and we'll go with the next person." Calling out to those ahead, "I'll anchor the base and hold the safety rope in case anyone slips. Softer to the dwarf, "Bralin, once you finish your rod planting, do you want to join me on the safety rope just in case someone slips?" Syr loops the rope a couple times around his own waist and makes room for the dwarf in front of him.
(OOC: I'm assuming we can take 20 to tie the harness?)
Bralin Monday May 26th, 2008 9:11:50 AM
Bralin gets a puzzled look at Syr's request. "I'm to hold the opposite side," he notes.
The dwarf points to one of the pilgrims, whoever looks least capable. "Join us," he says. Then he looks to Theo. "We are ready."
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Tuesday May 27th, 2008 9:18:28 AM
"Manfrey, stop being so difficult," Theodore scolds the youth. "Part of being a hero means knowing your limits. I know that I could not make it over this. Neither can you, at this moment. Maybe after a few years of training this obstacle will be no problem for you. But for now, you would die if you tried. Come with me and Bralin and I'll zip us over to the other side."
If Manfrey agress, Theodore will take him, Bralin, and Marjery to the other side of the chasm via Dimension Door.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Spanning the Gap (DM Cayzle) d4-1=0 Tuesday May 27th, 2008 10:52:51 AM
Wynn reconsiders hopping across.
Theo blips himself, Bralin, Marjery, and Manfrey across the chasm.
Xenia sets the crowbar off to one side lying on top of a pillar. From a very limited Web crawl, it seems to your DM that a potential lightning rod placed protrudently above the targets it is intended to protect would be most effective. This placement seems to fail that test. So I arbitrarily rule that the crowbar as currently dropped results in a 10 percent "miss chance" for any lightning strikes. Better refinement can increase that to a 50 percent miss chance.
To place the crowbar, Xenia must brave the storm again. Bit no bolts come near her.
Syr makes a rope harness for a pilgrim.
Bralin gets ready to grab onto the end of the rope, holding fast.
How do you get the rope to bridge the gap?
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Tuesday May 27th, 2008 6:33:27 PM
With a sigh, the bard quaffs his last potion of Fly. While waiting for the magic to take affect, he looks around for someone to ferry across.
Hopefully his Ring of Blinking will reduce the chance that he and his charge will get hit.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75] Tuesday May 27th, 2008 6:34:02 PM
With a sigh, the bard quaffs his last potion of Fly. While waiting for the magic to take affect, he looks around for someone, a pilgrim, to ferry across.
Hopefully his Ring of Blinking will reduce the chance that he and his charge will get hit.
"Don't look like the crowbar is doing much good over there," the girl rogue observes from behind the crew holding the rope on the far side of the gap. "I think maybe it needs to go up high."
"Can you, you know, Theo, maybe magic it up some way?" she asks.
"I'm gonna go back out there and help 'em across." Xenia flies back across to the first pilgrim hanging in the harness.
"Alright. See that big gap out there? The one in the middle? Well, this is how we're gonna do this, you're gonna just step off. Alright? Don't worry, the harness is connected to the rope. You're gonna just hang, and I'll push you over to the other side."
"Alright? You alright with this? 'Kay? Lets go."
Active Effects: Fly 45?/50 rnds
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3
Syr Wednesday May 28th, 2008 6:38:48 AM
Bracing himself, Syr anchors the near side as the pilgrims begin to make their way across. "Hey Xenia, can you take one end of the rope over to Bralin while I hold this end? We'll be get these folks across in no time."
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) d20=11 ; Wednesday May 28th, 2008 10:49:05 AM
"I don't have anything prepared at the moment," Theodore hollers over the thunder in answer to Xenia.
He then looks to Bralin. "Are you tying that rope off somewhere?" The wizard glances around at his immediate surroundings, looking for something that could anchor the rope.
If nothing, Theodore motions to Manfrey and Marjery. "Here's your first chance to be a hero, Manfrey. Help us to grab ahold of this rope and hold it taut for the others to come across." The young mage steps up behind Bralin and grabs a part of the rope, adding what little strength he can. (Strength check 11)
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Bralin Wednesday May 28th, 2008 11:36:17 AM
"One moment," Bralin tells the mage.
The dwarf casts a spell, causing a small earth elemental to appear upon the pillar where Xenia placed the crowbar. [Summon Monster III]
In a deep, echoing rumble, he calls out to it. [Terran Highlight to display spoiler: { Grab the iron and descend into the stone, so that it is embedded upright in the top of the pillar. Embed one third within the stone.}
Bralin then grabs the rope, and ties a loop, which he steps into. "I have no means but myself to anchor the rope, " he tells Theo.
Harley Thursday May 29th, 2008 9:16:58 AM
Harley eyes the singing dwarves. He doesn't think he will get much help from them. So for the time being he ignores them. He makes his way over to the tower and tries to find a way into the building.
If he cannot find a way in, he will cast locate object and see if he can triangulate on his flail he gave to Syr.
Sparking the Gap (DM Cayzle) d4-1=2 (how many bolts); d100=82 ; d100=3 (rod deflects? 1-40=Y); d4-1=0 (how many bolts); d4-1=0 (how many bolts); d4-1=1 (how many bolts); d100=44 (rod deflects? 1-40=Y); d20+2=4 (Simon's save); 3d10=18 (Simon's Damage) Friday May 30th, 2008 12:01:10 PM
REMEMBER! All Lightning saves are Reflex saves at DC14 for 3d10 or half (damage further modified by evasion, blink, etc). If you fail, roll your own damage.
Bralin summons an earth elemental to hold the crowbar upright and anchor it into solid rock. [OOC: Kudos on a good idea.]
Bralin, Theo, Marjery, and Manfrey brace themselves to hold the ropes that Xenia brought over.
Xenia returns to the group of pilgrims to help the next one over. On that return trip, two lightning bolts flash at her. Are they negated by the rod? One is! The other requires a save.
On the other side, the pilgrims hold the rope secure.
The first pilgrim -- a fighter, by her arms and armor -- goes across first to test the idea. First she takes off and stows her chain mail. "It just slows me down," she says.
She starts across, with Xenia and Wynn both flying at her elbows to lend a hand. Between the flying helpers, the harness, and the rope, there is no danger of falling. But the danger from lightning remains (albeit mitigated by the improvised lightning rod).
Luck is with this Pilgrim, or maybe Boydos, and no bolts flash down close by during the transit!
On the way back, Xenia and Wynn also encounter no bolts.
Second Pilgrim (of eight): one bolt! The pilgrim, an unarmed man carrying only a backpack, fails his save and suffers 18 points of damage! Instant death! -11 hit points!
Marjery cries out, "Simon! No!" she gasps. "Why didn't I cast Resist Lightning before I got over here?" She immediately casts the spell on Manfrey.
Do you wish to continue this strategy? What will you do for the last one or two pilgrims left holding the rope on the original side of the chasm?
(By the way, Wynn and Xenia have to save vs the bolt that killed Simon, too. You can roll your own damage, though, if needed.)
==========
Harley enters the Tower of Boydos through the same break in the base of the tower. It is not closed. It brings him into a series of misty corridors. Soon he is quite lost. But his locate spell gives him a sense that his friends are within range. Or at least, that his flail is!
Apology and Announcement! (DM Cayzle) Friday May 30th, 2008 12:04:47 PM
Friends, I apologize for the poor posting. Real life has been harsh to me. But I have good news for the Wold, for the game, and for me! Carl has agreed to co-DM this game, and with his addition, the DM quality and both meet and exceed the best I could have hoped for alone.
We are still working out the nature of the sharing of the role, but I am sure only good things will come of it.
Many thanks to Carl for his enthusiasm and efforts, both in the past for the Wold in general, and in the future for this game in particular!
By the way, I will post as soon as there are enough posts to move the game along later today or Saturday. At least we'll get three DM posts out of this poor week, I hope.
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) d20=3 ; Saturday May 31st, 2008 3:26:32 PM
Theodore continues to hold the rope. (Strength check 3) He lets out a remorseful cry when the pilgrim is struck and killed by the lightning. He grits his teeth and tries to hold on even tighter.
Macaw silently sits behind the group watching the dilemma unfold.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Bralin Saturday May 31st, 2008 4:23:02 PM
The dwarf's face clouds when the pilgrim is struck by the lightning. But Bralin cannot think of any alternatives. He continues to play anchor.
Xenia d20+16=28 ; d20+16=20 ; Sunday June 1st, 2008 9:16:10 AM
The flash clears once again from Xenia's eyes, blinding white dying to spots of blue before the chasm, death and tragedy, returns to her eyes.
"Oh. Poor guy." But no poorer than the thousands who died in the Big Float when the Crying Woods attacked. Or the poor girl, sucked of her life, on the road to the plantation outside of Plateau City. Or Gordo. Or Lang. People die. Can you take on the responsibility for that? Feel the pain for them all? For everyone?
"STOP! The crowbar's not working." She looks skyward. "I'm gonna go higher. Draw the lightning to me. I think I can dodge almost all of it."
She reaches back for a scroll. The haversack knows which one. They she flies to Bralin.
"Cast this on me," the rogue says over the claps of thunder. "It'll pertect me some from the lightning."
"When I get into place, GO!" she shouts across to the people still on the other side. Then, with the spell in place, Xenia draws her shortsword. Blade of dark steel raised on high, she flies up into the teeth of the lightning. 40 feet up above in the center of the chasm, she holds her blade up to catch the bolts.
"GO! Don't leave me here for long!"
Rolls and Actions Reflex 1 28 Reflex 2 20
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3
Wynn [AC=26; HP=6875] d20+11=27 ; 3d10=13 ; Sunday June 1st, 2008 1:27:14 PM
Wynn manages to avoid the majority of the lightning bolt's damaging effects [ reflex=27, 1/2 damage further mitigated by blinking = 7hp damage].
Rather than risk the slower and decidedly more treacherous rope crossing, Wynn returns to the pilgrims and offers to carry one across. "Hurry" he encourages a pilgrim, "she can't dodge those bolts forever."
Active Spells / Effects Fly 28 rounds Blink - ring
Carl Monday June 2nd, 2008 8:37:27 AM
-Lurking-
Hi guys, looking forward to joining in. Thanks for having me!
Syr Monday June 2nd, 2008 9:30:30 AM
Syr's face sinks as he watches the pilgrim take a bolt. "Muttering to himself, "Boydos is a fickle god." Seeing Xenia rise above it all to deflect the lightning, he quickly urges the other pilgrims on. When Wynn appears, Syr tells him, "Tell Xenia not to worry about me, I'll take my chances with the rope and speed." Once everyone is across, he ties the pilgrim's chainmail to one end and gets ready to jump across.
Bralin - 2nd post Monday June 2nd, 2008 9:43:30 AM
Bralin wraps the rope around himself to prevent if from falling, and then casts the spell off the scroll onto Xenia.
Harley Monday June 2nd, 2008 12:48:42 PM
Harley lets the locate magic move him towards his flail. He gets his regular flail and shield ready in case he is attacked.
Human Lightning Rod (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 12:45:59 AM This is the Monday DM Post.
Xenia asks Bralin to read her a scroll. He does so. Then Xenia bravely steps up -- or flies up! -- to take the brunt of the lightning.
If she chooses to be a target and to make her evasion-fortified Reflex saves as normal, then for any given bolt that would hit a pilgrim, there is a 60% chance that the bolt will hit Xenia rather than the target.
If she chooses to make her saves normally but to give up her evasive save for half, then there is a 80% chance the bolt will hit Xenia rather than a Pilgrim.
If she chooses to give up her saves totally and deliberately fail her save, then it is clear that she will take the bolt 100% of the time.
Wynn continues to help the Pilgrims across, taking a more active roll.
Syr is ready to be the last across.
=====
Looking for his flail, Harley finds that the misty corridor reveals a door. From behind the door comes the sound of heavy snoring.
=====
[OOC: I'll post again as soon as I hear from Xenia about the degree to which she wishes to draw the lightning upon herself.]
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) d20=8 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 9:08:17 AM
Theodore gulps as Xenia flies up into the storm, brandishing the crowbar. "Oh boy, I hope she knows what she's doing."
The wizard continues to grip the rope and returns his attention to the next pilgrim coming across. (Strength check 8)
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Bralin Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 10:36:15 AM
Having cast the spell, Bralin can do no more than watch the brave rogue fly about in search of lightning bolts.
The dwarf grits his teeth, and clamps onto the rope. "Make haste!" he calls over to the pilgrims.
Human Lightning Rod, Part Two (DM Cayzle) 7d4-7=13 ; 3d10=21 ; 3d10=19 ; 3d10=22 ; 3d10=19 ; 3d10=14 ; 3d10=14 ; 3d10=24 ; 3d10=13 ; 3d10=18 ; 3d10=15 ; 3d10=11 ; 3d10=11 ; 3d10=15 ; 7d4-7=8 ; 3d10=16 ; 3d10=15 ; 3d10=13 ; 3d10=18 ; 3d10=17 ; 3d10=21 ; 3d10=15 ; 3d10=16 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 10:42:45 AM This is a supplemental DM post.
There are seven pilgrims still needing an escort That's seven return trips alone for Wynn, by the way ... we'll deal with that after.
Note that Xenia herself can fly back down for healing if she needs it, an option that may already have occurred to her.
Of the seven trips with pilgrims, there are a total of 13 bolts of lightning. Damages, after subtracting 20 points of electrical damage from each bolt, are 1, 0, 2, 0, 0, 0, 4, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, and 0. Total damage is 7!
Xenia, please confirm that the spell had a caster level of 7-12?
Now, as for Wynn, perhaps Xenia would like to protect him too on his return trips? That's another 8 bolts for total 0, 0, 0, 1, 0, and 0 damage. TOTAL damage from lightning: 8 hp!
Now EVERYONE is across! Manfrey is standing there gaping. "That ... that ... was incredible! You are a hero!"
Then he reflects for a moment. "Why didn't you do that for Simon?"
[OOC: Very well played, Xenia! Please accept a hero point for that!]
"He ... he-r-r-r-ro. Schmu-mu-mu ... Schmero." Or so it sounds like the rogue mutters under her breath as she lands behind the last pilgrim on the far ledge. Her legs, nerveless, begin to buckle, and she avoids a fall to the floor of the corridor only by willing her flight to hold her up.
"I didn't know, Manfrey," she replies. "It's 'cause I didn't know." She shakes her head and drifts toward Wynn. It would be so nice to just curl up with Wynn, to let him cuddle her and make it all go away. But when the cuddling ended ... they would still be here.
"You can't always know what's the right thing to do from the beginning, Manny. A lotta times you don't know how dangerous something is. You don't know how much of something you can take and so you don't know how much you can risk. All you can do is make your best guess."
"Sometimes, if you guess wrong, then folks die."
"Lets go. I want outta here. I want snacks. I want a comfy bed. I want a bath. And I want shopping."
With those words and a determined face, she floats off in the direction of the mist, hoping that the flying spell doesn't give out before the strength returns to her legs again.
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
OoC: The scroll was indeed for Level 7/20pts protection from electricity. Thanks for the point.
Harley (AC 28; HPs 85/85) d20+10=21 ; d20+10=23 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 7:46:17 PM
Harley listens at the door for any more sounds (listen 21).
He then quietly opens the door and looks in (spot 23).
Location: ? with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 0/3
Syr d20+14=28 ; d20+14=25 ; d20+14=16 ; d20+14=20 ; d20+14=27 ; d20+6=22 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 12:24:15 AM
Watching everyone across, Syr takes the end of the rope and proceeds across himself. Easily clearing the 1st two jumps, he stumbles on his way to the third. With a last ditch effort his hand catches the edge of the block (missed the DC21 by 5 if I figure it correctly). and pulls himself up (Str check 22). Finally, he rejoins the rest of the group with a smile. (OOC: let me know if he needs any reflex saves).
Watching Xenia suffer, he pats her on the back lightly, "Nice work, you did what you thought was right."
"Manfrey, is there anything you want to do for your fallen pilgrim? Interesting conversation you may want to have with Boydos... If not, we'd best be moving."
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) d20+5=6 ; d20+5=10 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 9:21:36 AM
Theodore is glad that everyone else made it safely across. "That's a relief."
He releases the rope and flexes his hands, now scraped and bruised from rope and fingernails.
Peering down the corridor, Theodore squints trying to make out what the next obstacle might be. (Spot 6) Macaw flaps back up to the wizard's noggin. "Do you see anything, Macaw?"
The bird glances down the passage. (Macaw Spot 10) "Clouds. Lots of clouds."
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Reunion (DM Cayzle) d4-1=2 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 9:29:06 AM OOC: This is the Tuesday DM post. Welcome, Justin, back to the game. I need a link to your online PC sheet and that link should be added to the Crimson Shields Woldipedia page, please. Assistant DM Scott can help with that.
Theo and Bralin brace themselves as Xenia's brave deeds keep the pilgrims from harm. Marjery bows and says, "Thank you for helping my people. We are deeply in your debt."
Almost forgotten in the theatrics is Syr, who, last to cross, makes his own way. With all eyes on Xenia, does anyone even notice Syr's stumble and recovery? The crackling rain and lightning have one last chance to do some harm to the party: two lighning bolts strike near Syr as he passes -- requiring two DC14 reflex saves -- you can roll your own 3d10 damage.
Once all are over to the far side, it is time to travel on. A short time of travel brings you through a corridor to an archway. Beyond is a room with a bed and two doors. One of the doors opens.
It is Harley!
And what of the figure on the bed? The sleeper is thrashing and groaning, trapped in a nightmare. And a closer look reveals Florin, still sleeping!
"Hey, Harley!" Much steadier on her feet after a bit of a walk. She looks at Florin, sleeping in the last place you'ed expect to find someone who just disappeared while traveling on the road.
"So, Marjie, whyn't you tell us a little about your God Guy, huh? I mean, you got powers from him, right? Means you must understand something of what he's about, yeah? Couldja explain why it is two of our friends show up here like this? Couldja tell us what it is we need to get out of here?"
She throws her hands up in exasperation.
Then the dark girl peers around the new cleric guy, who calls himself Harley. She looks into the door from which he has just stepped. "Hey, Harley ... Where's Angus? And Belkie?" she asks.
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Florin Jadenth Wednesday June 4th, 2008 5:06:54 PM
(OOC:Cayzle, is this what your wanting http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgzh7gcw_0dxrpggdz I sent a email containing this when I made it up back before I had to leave for awhile, I guess yahoo ate the email though. If you need anything else other then that then let me know.)
Florin wakes in a panic and looks around quickly before blining and looking towards Hatley first and then over towards Xenia and the others, "Wh...how in Domi's name...wheres the undead at..." Florin is quite confused and eyes the places wearily feeling something isn't right.
Trying to make the best of things though even with the odd feeling of something is wrong he smiles to his friends, "Is nice to see you all again. Umm Xenia, why do you look alittle frizzled?" Florin stands and checks his weapons, also checking to see if there is any torn places in him, if what he had seen was a dream then it seemed so real.
Florin believe he sees Bralin with the group also and blinks in abit of shock, "Well, looks like our paths cross again my stout friend. Ivy still laughs about that wedding challegne you gave. I doubt anyone would of stepped up on that one." Florin smiles, no matter the dream he had, he was home again with those he classed as family....well except the strange pilgrim looking people that he didn't know and the missing few group members.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] Wednesday June 4th, 2008 9:44:35 PM
Wynn accompanies Xenia down the corrdor. When he gets a chance to pull her aside he does so..."that was an incredibly brave thing you did back there" he gives her a brief kiss on the lips, "now don't you ever do that again" he whispers in her ear. A quick squeeze and he releases her to greet Harley and the unpredictable Florin.
Syr d20=3 ; d20=18 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 12:57:25 AM
Giving the paladin a punch in the shoulder, "Florin, is this where your wandering took you? To bed? Meanwhile, we've been dodging lightning, undead, and other hazards while you were getting your beauty sleep?"
The elf begins the introductions all around before prodding the others, "No offense Marjery but let's get out of this tower."
(OOC: both bolts missed)
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Thursday June 5th, 2008 9:00:13 AM
Theodore is surprised to see Florin and Harley. "Hey, guys! You're not just illusions, are you? This place is pretty weird."
Regardless of their tangibility, Theodore is glad to see them. "We could use all the help we can get."
"Help! We need somebody!" cries Macaw.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
A door for each of you. (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 5th, 2008 11:00:33 AM
OOC: This is the Wednesday DM Post! D'Oh!
Harley and Florin make a renewed acquaintance with Syr, Xenia, Wynn, Bralin, and Theo. Marjery introduces herself, as well as the boy, Manfrey, and the seven other pilgrims who remain of her followers.
The chaotic mad coincidence of meeting old friends here is not lost on the party, and the sheer chaos of Boydos, even asleep, can be the only explanation.
Inquiries are made, and Marjery says that she and her people used to be followers of Ga'al. But he died, and their heartseeds died, so they are looking for a new god, one who is not so ... um ... always telling you what to do.
She does not know what is happening, but she knows she wants to meet Boydos, and she has been quietly praying for that. All she can figure is to head onward.
The remaining door in the room opens into a long thin room. The room has 16 doors. Each door has a name on it. a closer look reveals that the names are your own.
"Ivy's got a lot to learn you, Florin, you know?" Xenia fires the comment back at the paladin's seemingly innocent question. She plants one fist on her hip and shakes a finger at Florin with her other hand. "You just don't go talking about frizzled when a girl's frizzled."
"You repeat these words, and you remember them good, alright?" The rogue's manner becomes solicitous, and she slips into a different voice. "'You look like you've had a hard day, dear. I'll make dinner. Can I draw you a bath?'"
"I wonder if these doors are, like, tests, you know? And I wonder if we have to do 'em alone or if we can gang up? I mean, have a small group tackle each door and help each other out. What do you think, guys? How about you, Marj? I mean, as a chosen of Boydos, what does your gut say?"
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Bralin Thursday June 5th, 2008 4:28:44 PM
Bralin clasps hands with Florin.
"Well met, my friend," he replies, adding "Tis rare for even dwarfs to accept the challenge. Tis merely a wedding tradition."
At the sight of the doors, Bralin nearly opens the one bearing his name before Xenia makes her suggestion. And a good one, at that.
"Mayhap one of us opens their door," he suggests, then he looks at Syr significantly.
Harley (AC 28; HPs 85/85) Thursday June 5th, 2008 7:27:58 PM
Harley smiles when he sees his knew friends. He moves over next to them and answers their questions.
"Belkior, Angus and I went back to the plantation without any trouble. There is however some minor trouble going on their. A ghost has been haunting the building and scaring the children. It appears to be harmless if you leave it alone. Belkior and Angus decided to stay back and try to get to the bottom of the problem."
"I teleported back in the morning and activated my locate object spell. In short, it led me to this room just moments before you entered."
"It is good to be reunited again. What have you found out so far?"
Harley stops talking and looks around the room with all the doors. His smiles goes away once he sees all their names on the doors.
"I guess they were expecting us."
Location: ? with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 0/3
Florin Jadenth d20+3=9 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+3=23 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 9:17:14 PM
Florin smiles as he is spoken to by Xenia and chuckles at her comment about how to speak to a lady, "I'll keep that in mind Xenia. It was abit hard to miss the chance to tease a friend when she has hair kind of standing up." Florin smiles more.
Looking to Bralin he nods, "I figured as much but it was still fun to see."
Florin takes the hit to the shoulder and gives Syr a light shove in return, "Nice to be back and you know, this bed just was calling my name....actually I was checking out a undead rumor and such. I guess I dreamed the final part but I was leading a group of undead hunters and Grims against a army of undead...the undead were followers of Domi and Gargul though and the healers were still healing their wounded...they didn't know they were dead...I and the men fought and fought but the enemy over took us and I'm sure I would of been ripped to pieces but here I am." Florin frowns since this dream seemed so real yet, "I have a bad feeling that it wasn't a dream as much as a vision from Domi. Something isn't right."
Florin looks to Marjery and Manfrey, "Greetings to you and your fellows. My friends here are helping you out and as long as they don't mind me coming along again I offer my sword and shield in you aid. My name is Florin Jadenth, paladin of Domi. Defender of his word and I act as a sword for him against those who try to harm his words or those unable to defend themselves...and as you could probably guess, I also am a undead hunter.:" Florin isn't sure what to make of these new people so keeps a eye on them for the moment to see if there is any noticeable reactions to his words.
(Spot:9 Diplomacy:13 Gather information:23 *nat:20 if this skill will apply*)
At the Doors (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 5th, 2008 9:42:40 PM This is the Thursday DM post, playing catch-up.
Xenia teases Florin, half seriously. She asks Marjery what she thinks about these doors.
The would-be Boydian (Boydoser? Boydite?) says, after a moment's thought, "Here is the first sign that we have made our presence known. Seems to me that we are each intended to pass the door that names us. Probably all at the same time. To do other wise seems against the spirit of the invitation, I think. On the other hand, maybe we are supposed to turn around and go back, or stand on our heads, or change our names, or who knows? Things are crazy in this place."
Bralin thinks that one person should try to open his door ... maybe a person named Syr?
Harley brings the group up to date on recent goings-on at the Orphanage. He seems a little unsettled to find his name here on a door.
Florin too has a tale to tell. And a sword to offer to Marjery. She answers, after a moment, "A paladin of Domi. Ga'al taught us to hate such as you. He saw Domi as his greatest rival. Tell me, is Domi a god of giving orders? Is he a god who commands? Because I have had enough of commands." You sense from her expression that her only regret is that she did not lose her heartseed sooner.
She adds, "But your words are sweet, and your friends have helped us unasked, so if you are like them, I can only offer my thanks for your kindness."
The doors await.
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Friday June 6th, 2008 9:44:24 AM
Although Florin and Harley's tale interest Theodore, the wizard finds his attention continually drawn back to his door.
Ah, the Unkown. I feel like we're good friends. Although, you're not always the most consistent friend. I wonder what you offer, today.
One bit of Florin's story does catch Theodore's notice. The battle with the undead.
"We went through a room with those that you speak of. Undead priests watching over the undead wounded," Theodore recounts. "The priests were wearing Alemi holy symbols, though. Not Domi or Gargul."
The curiosity is too much for the young mage and he decides to try his luck one more time. Roll the dice!
He approaches his door and looks up at the writing above it. "I don't see your name anywhere, Macaw. I guess you're coming with me."
Gently placing his hand to the knob, he turns and pushes/pulls the door open.
"Yeah. Spirit of the invitation ... " The rogue eyes her door with a dubious look. She sighs as Theo reaches for his own door.
"Maybe shouldn'ta oughta have gone into that crack in the wall in the first place. Oh well," she shrugs, "might as well." Xenia opens her door. Before stepping through though, she rushes quickly to Wynn's side. She throws her arms around his neck, kissing him with a fierce passion.
"You come out the other side now, you hear? If you don't, I'm not leaving. I'll stay here looking for you. Till the end of time, if I have to."
Then Xenia breaks away and enters her door.
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] Friday June 6th, 2008 7:26:01 PM
Wynn holds the rogue tight in his arms, accepting her embrace. "I'll wait for you on the other side..." he replies. "I don't know what awaits us, but be careful."
The bard goes to his own door and pauses a moment, waiting until Xenia has entered her door before stepping forward.
Florin Jadenth Friday June 6th, 2008 8:53:58 PM
Florin looks to the doors and then the others, blinking some as he is not sure about this whole door thing.
Delaying doing anything with any of them he looks back to Marjery, "Domi doesn't command every movement we make. It is easy actually to take the wrong step sometimes and have to seek forgiveness for such steps. We are free to make our own mistakes. I'm not a priest but Domi is a god of protection and thats why I work for him. I seek to protect those who can't to be their shield when needed and their sword. I guess in some ways you could say I serve Gargul to since I slay undead but I do that also in defense of people and also to bring peace to those dead souls."
Florin looks to the others and sighs as he sees doors being opened and walked through, "Theo, becareful ok? You to Xenia and Wynn. I believe since my little check happened that made me leave that none of you met Ivy yet. I still plan to introduce all of you to her."
Florin rests his hand on the silver dragon handle of his longsword Glimmer as he moves to look at each door till he finds his own. Glancing over at Syr, Florin cracks a smile, "Never thought a simple door could worry me so, you know? You better make it through this too my friend or by the time I find you I might of become a monk myself just to kick you in the butt a few times." Florin grins, joking to his friend.
Florin also looks to Bralin but is sure the sturdy dwarf will be find but none the less he speaks to him, "Well Bralin, whatever these doors hold can't be much worse then we already been through and seen right? I mean, we have seen Koshe' Mar (believe I spelled it right) and the foul creatures there."
Before he delays any longer Florin speaks to the others remaining, "Good luck everyone and see you all on the other side, where ever that is." With this Florin is ready to go and will open his own door ro go.
Through the Doors (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 7th, 2008 1:12:13 PM This is the Friday DM Post!
Brave Theo opens his door!
As he opens it, he hears a voice in his head. "Good! Now enter and close the door behind you, and we will begin."
Past the open door is a mist that does not spill out. It forms a wall into which you must step to pass through.
If you reach in and grope, you will find a floor, and about three feet to either side, a smooth wall. Looks like this door opens into a ten-foot wide corridor.
Xenia and Wynn embrace and exchange words.
Xenia finds the same, as do any who try their door. They too hear the voice in their heads.
Florin hesitates, taking time to talk. But then he too enters.
Will you all step through and shut the doors behind you?
"Begin, huh? Okay. Yeah. Let's get this over with," Out loud, the rogue replies to the voice within her head. Then she opens the second door and steps in.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d20+6=14 ; d20+7=24 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 10:43:14 AM
The bard closes the door behind him and cautiously advances down the corrdidor. "What next?" he thinks to himself. [Spot=14, Listen=24]
Bralin Sunday June 8th, 2008 12:14:21 PM
Bralin nods to Florin. "Aye," he answers.
The dwarf opens 'his' door and steps through, closing it behind him.
Florin Jadenth d20+3=14 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 9:28:57 PM
Florin looks in the room thats beyond the door and sighs abit as he steps into the room beyond it and closes the door behind him, figuring you never know what will happen till you start along.
Florin waits and watches, looking around the room as he tries to decide on what to do or see what happens next.
(Spot:14)
(Cayzle, Carl or Scott: I was wondering, what do I need to do to link my CS to my char's name? I figure I should be doing that like the others. I believe I was told once back before my unexpected leaving of the Wold for abit so I need a memory refresher. Also, is there anything else your guys need? Let me know please.)
Syr Monday June 9th, 2008 1:23:41 AM
Seeing Harley, he reaches behind his back and gives the man his flail. "Don't worry, we only used it to tenderize the meat for dinner a few times, Otherwise it's as good as new!"
yr grins at Florin, before reaching to open his own door, "That implies you could actually catch me first?" Shrugging once, he looks at anyone left in the room before calmly stepping through the wall of mist and closing the door behind himself. He looks around says, "Hello, anyone besides me in here. Maybe a guy named Boydos? or at least someone with a key to get out of here?" He reaches back and tests the knob too see if he can get back where he came from.
(OOC: Carl would be the super duper best person to ask as we owe him for alot of the stuff on the Woldipedia site. I use this... with an open bracket at the beginning and a closed bracket at the end. link href="http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfc9pdfr_0hd43c6"]Syr[/link
DM Carl (OOC) Monday June 9th, 2008 5:47:18 AM
Yup, what Scott said.
So for Florin it would be link href="http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dgzh7gcw_0dxrpggdz"]Florin[/link
with square brackets at the start and end.
Thanks to the sterling work of John our site designer, that text will remain in your post name field, so you won't have to remember all that fiddly code.
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Monday June 9th, 2008 9:38:41 AM
The hairs on the back of Theodore's neck move in response to the mind voice. With wide eyes, the wizard tries to pierce the gloom beyond the door. Unable to see past the mists, he makes up his mind and steps into the room, pulling the door shut behind him.
Macaw hunkers down on top of the wizard's head.
Theodore's head swivels as he moves slowly down the corridor.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Harley (AC 28; HPs 85/85) Monday June 9th, 2008 9:36:48 PM
Harley waits until everyone has gone through their doors. He walks up to his and looks at it. For a few moments. After a quick prayer to the gods he opens the door and walks through.
Florin Jadenth Monday June 9th, 2008 10:33:26 PM
Florin had shut the door behind him and stands waiting to see what happens still. He keeps his eyes open for anything. If nothing happens after a couple moments he will begin moving foreward to try and check the place out more.
(Spot roll is on previous post.)
Attacked! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 10th, 2008 12:13:11 PM This is the first DM post of the week.
You all step in and close the doors behind you. The mists lift. You are all in a huge room, about 100 feet wide and high. The sky, or ceiling, is overhead ... you cannot tell if you are out of doors or in some vast space.
If you make a spellcraft check vs DC25, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you figure the glass walls are force walls.}
But from the shimmers around you, you also see that you are each in a ten-ft wide and ten-ft high corridor, a kind of glass rectangular tube. At the far end of the tube is a door, and in front of the door is a monster. Each monster has an amulet of some sort around its neck. Or body, for those without necks.
Some of the monsters are tiny, some large. They are strange things indeed, mostly unlike anything you have ever encountered. Each of you has a monster to fight, even the pilgrims. The pilgrims seem mostly to be fighting lesser foes ... flying fish, kobolds, a hedgehog, some small shapeshifting thing.
You hear two voices ring out in unison. "Make it through to your door and out, and you will win! NOW BEGIN!"
Bralin (AC 27, 121/121 hp) 5d4+5=20 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 3:33:29 PM
A challenge by combat? Bralin nods grimly. He accepts.
The dwarf briefly wonders if he could find a way to help the pilgrims, but decides he will have to defeat his own foe first.
He reaches down and pulls...a wand. Five magic missiles streak across the intervening space to slam unerringly into his foe. [Wand of Magic Missiles (cl9) - 20 hp damage]
Bralin grins slightly. Let us see if this attack was anticipated.
Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (d) = Domain Spell 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), Resist Energy (cold), Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 -- Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, *Summon Monster III 4 -- Freedom of Movement }
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Tuesday June 10th, 2008 4:43:32 PM
As the mists clear and Theodore sees the stinker on the other side of the hall, he quickly wishes he had someone of stronger arm and stout body to lend him a hand.
He fumbles in his spell pouch and brings forth a small piece of cured leather. (Casts Mage Armor)
I am safe and protected from it all Whether thief's dagger or the titan's maul
"I'd like to go through that door you're standing in front of. And I'd really like to not have to fight you. I mean, it's not really worth fighting over, is it? It's just a silly little door. Really." This is all shouted because Theodore doesn't quite have the nerve to get much closer for a normal conversation.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
Xenia d20+22=38 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 7:13:23 PM
"Hi." Still floating in the air, Xenia gives her signature hand wave to the creature at the end of the hall. "I'm Xenia." She takes in the situation around her. All the folks down the way in their glass-ish sorta tubes. All set up so they can watch each other get torn apart by the monsters. Some god. A cruel god. A god who likes to watch others suffer.
"Hope you ain't been waiting long." Drifting down the hall way a bit, she eyes the monster blocking the way, searching for details. (Spot 38) "If I'd known you was waiting, I mighta hurried up, you know." Carefully, she measures the distance between herself and the critter.
The dark rogue whispers to her ring and the blinking starts again. It's hard not to be distracted by what's going on with the others to either side. But she'll need her concentration for what she's about to do. Still, she counts the rows from where she is, trying to memorize who is how many doors away from her.
Position: M16 (25ft move)
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (7/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:111/111 d20+3=7 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=7 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 9:21:49 PM
Florin frowns as he sees the creature down the hall from him, blocking the door, "I'm afraid your in the way. I would be greatful if you would kindly move." Florin has his bastard sword ready yet and whispers under his breath which causes the blade to crackle with electricity, he also holds the shield that has Domi's symbol on it in his other hand, "I'm afraid if you do not move then I must go through you, this is your only warning."
Florin readies himself and watches the creature to see what moves it might make.
(Dang, lagged on my rolls so ignore the last 2. Spot:7 Listen:5)
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AD3 d20+17=26 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 9:33:23 PM
Syr looks over at Bralin and watches as he attempts to attack the creature in his way. Turning back, he concentrates on the foe down the corridor in front of him. He moves forward cautiously. All the while, he holds out his hands and speaks to the oddity, "You have no reason to fear me. While I do revere Domi, I see no reason why Boydos would wish me harm. Please let me pass and no one will be hurt."
The elf takes a deep breath and looks over to his left to see how the others might be progressing. In particular, he is worried for the pilgrims. Turning back to the creature in front of him, "I am now going to approach you very quickly out of concern for my friends." (Diplomacy 26) To try and save time, the monk sprints down the corridor and finishes next to the door all the while muttering to creature, "Good.... Dog?" over and over.
Harley (AC 28; HPs 85/85) d20+10=28 ; d20+7=19 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 9:36:53 PM
Harley smiles when the challenge is issued. The smile fades a little when he sees he can only fight the one creature that is in his tube-like structure and cannot help his friends or the pilgrims. He looks closely at the creature in front of him, trying to identify it or any identifying marks or items it has.
Spot 28; Knowledge Religion 19
Harley decides to give himself some time to prepare for the creature. He casts an infrequently used spell, but one that is great for blocking a path. A Blade Barrier springs to life in front of the large creature, blocking its path to Harley.
OOC - Cast Blade Barrier in Ringed Wall form making a circle that basically circles through U18:V19; it will go from side to side and floor to ceiling and the creature will have to go through the wall twice to get to Harley.
Location: H18 with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 0/3
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d20+9=20 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+12=22 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 10:14:41 PM
Wynn looks around at the glass walls (Spellcraft=20, fail) "some sort of magic, but what?" he ponders as he squints a little to avoid being distracrted by the shimmering surfaces.
The little creature at the end of the glass tunnel gets his attention. What's with the amulet? he thinks. He tries to remember if he had ever learned about anything like this (Knowledge Arcana=10), but his mind is fuzzy. Is it some kind of enchantment?
Slowly and cautiously he makes his way down the glass corridor. When he is within 90 ft. he will start to sing (Fascinate/Perform=22)
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same,
Extra! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 10th, 2008 10:20:22 PM This is an extra DM Post.
Here is what you see facing you!
Syr - Mystical frog-man - half man, half frog, wearing a mage's robes. Bralin - Angry ShellGuy - a tiny humanoid turtle who looks pissed off. Florin - Blue Shimmering ElectroCrab - large in size Theo - Poison Tentaclawer - a large fellow with three tentacles and an octopi beak Wynn - Screaming Bone Lizard - some kind of skeletal crustacean reptile undead screaming thing Xenia - Wall of Water - and you can barely see it bearing down on you because it is transaprent. Harley - Green DuckMan - QUACK! QUACK! Manfrey - Dire Rat - eek eek! Marjery - Weresquirrel - or so you guess from the bushy tail
OoC: Even though the Wall of Water is transparent, would Xenia not see the Amulet that it is wearing about it's middle quite clearly?
Cayzle: Why, yes, as well as some shells, bones, and sand embedded in it. That's why the Spot DC to notice it was really not very high.
Duels A-Plenty (Part A) (DM Cayzle) d20+7=10 (FrogMan save vs his own Web) 10d6(5+5+5+3+6+6+2+4+1+6)=43 (bolt damage vs Florin) Wednesday June 11th, 2008 5:14:10 PM This is the second DM post for the week, part A.
Battle is joined!
Syr vs the Mystic FrogMan (AC15, entangled)
Syr is facing a medium size humanoid with frog-like features. He is wearing a traditional mage's robe and hat. He also has a cloak, bracers, a thin sword, a backpack, a quiver, and a small crossbow. Syr tries to be diplomatic while running flat-out right up to the creature. Syr sees that the door has a keyhole, and the amulet around the Frogman's neck is a key. The FrogMan takes a five foot step back (west) so that he is not right next to Syr, then casts a spell: Webs right on top of the FrogMan and engulfing Syr as well. Syr, the reflex save vs Webs is 16. If you fail, you are entangled. Please read the spell description for your limits on movement in the Web.
The FrogMan fails the save against his own Web, and he is entangled and cannot move.
Bralin vs the Angry ShellGuy (AC27)
Bralin is up against a tiny size turtle-man who is weilding a tiny glaive. A very sharp tiny glaive. Bralin uses a wand to hit the creature for 20 hp of magic missle damage. In response, the creature uses a run action to close the gap, ending the round right next to Bralin. He is not more than 2 feet tall, if that, but that glaive gives him a five foot range. The glaive is sparking with energy and is covered with barbs that look painful. The barbs bite into the turtle man's hands too. The creature also has a tiny cloak, bracers, gloves, and his amulet is a little box made of a turtle shell.
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin waits to see what the monster will do. He is facing a large size giant crab, cobalt blue, with crackling electric energy sparking off its shell. He gets his answer as the crab scuttles forward 30 feet and then sparks out a lightning bolt at Florin. Reflex save 14 or please take 10d6 damage (That's 43 or 21, save for half).
Syr, Bralin, and Florin can respond now. Harley, Theo, Wynn, and Xenia, look for Part B of this post later on tonite. A map will be posted later tonite as well.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:90/111 d20+10=17 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 12:22:46 AM
Florin frowns as the giant electric crab moves foreward and shoots a lightning bolt at him. See that distance is going to be just as bad from the looks as close enoucntering it, he moves foreward. Florin will also give the command word to make the electric on his bastardsword go since thats not going to be much help in this fight.
(I'm figureing it is to far away to move and attack in the same round.)
Cayzle: Unless you have some enhancement to your move rate, yes, it is. See map below.
Duels A-Plenty (Part B) (DM Cayzle) 4d4+4=14 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 12:35:54 AM
Theo vs the Poison Tentacrawler (AC20)
Theo is up against a large, vaguely bipedal figure with tentacles for arms and legs and more. Theo casts mage armor. The creature takes a double move toward Theo, moving 70 feet.
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
Wynn steps forward to try to fascinate the creature, but it is undead, and thus immune. It moves closer, opening its skeletal jaws to ... scream?
Xenia vs the Wall of Water (AC4)
Xenia activates her Blink ring again. She moves forward a couple dozen feet. She notes that the glass walls extend into the Realm of Shadows. The Wall of Water wiggles 30 feet closer.
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley's intuition is that this foe is some kind of Outsider, devoted to Chaos. He creates a Blade Barrier between himself and his foe. The DuckMan moves a little closer for a look, then uses a spell-like ability to cast Empowered Magic Missile on Harley. The damage is 21 hp to Harley.
The other monsters start to close with the Pilgrims.
Bralin (AC 27, 121/121 hp) d20+17=30 ; d10+10=18 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 8:00:10 AM
Bralin evaluates the turtle creature as it approaches - small and fast. This combat is a reversal of the traditional dwarf/giant combat. This god has a sense of irony.
The armored warrior drops the wand [free action], and pulls his axe [move].
Choosing precision over power, Bralin brings the head of his axe sideways across the creature, and then begins to circle around.
[Hit ac 30 for 18 hp damage. 5' step to I5]
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 68/68HP) d20+17=29 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 8:42:06 AM
"Yeah. That's it. Twist just a little bit closer now. A little closer."
"WYNN! I'll see you soon as I can get around!"
... now ...
Arms folded to her sides, the slim dark rogue flies directly at the approaching wall of water. She slows only when the Water Critter draws near, banking into a spiral that slides her neatly through the gap between the north side of the wall of water and the wall of clear wall stuff that surrounds them both. (Tumble 29 to pass through opponent's space.)
Passing by, she shoots for the door.
C'mon, c'mon. Just a little closer.
Then the door is there. And she blinks through it to the other side.
Made it!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Position: AE16 /Outside Door (120ft move with half speed through rows T-X)
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (6/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
OoC: You seemed to have missed Xenia's move action last round. She should have been at M16 on the map. I will play her from there, if you don't mind.
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) d20+20=34 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 9:17:11 AM
(Spellcraft check I forgot to do for last post 34)
Theodore crouches as the monster swiftly approaches, intent on battle. He prepares for the monster to attack before blipping out of harm's way and to the end of the hall. (Ready action Dimension Door to go to AD10 just before monster attacks.)
I want a door here, I want a door there To go from here to there through thinnest air
At the door, Theodore desperately tries to open the portal and escape the nightmare behind him. "Oh boy, Macaw! We're in trouble, now."
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 9 rounds
Harley (AC 31; HPs 64/85) Thursday June 12th, 2008 1:11:41 PM
Harley's smile turns into a grimace as the magic missile spell slams into him. He decides to cast 2 more defensive spells to try and protect himself from the magical duck.
Cast Spell Resistance & Quickened Shield of Faith.
Location: H18 with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Active Spells or Effects: Ring of Counter-spells: Dispel Magic Blade Barrier: 10+/11 minutes Spell Resistance (23): 11/11 minutes Shield of Faith: 11/11 minutes
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 0/3
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AD3 d20+17=19 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+18=35 ; d20+18=19 ; d20+18=29 ; d20+13=29 ; 2d6+7=14 ; 2d6+7=14 ; 3d6+7=19 ; 2d6+7=12 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 5:31:26 PM
The elf twists and turns his body with some difficulty to avoid getting caught by the spell (saved with a natural 2, phew). Grunting at the creature, "Are you more frog or spider?" Syr frowns at the door when he spots the 'keyhole'. Turning around to the frogman he moves toward him, "Sorry but it looks like I'll be needing that. Let's just see what we can do." He moves to AC3 and begins pummeling the ensnared creature into unconsciousness. (Attack 26,35,miss,29,29 damage 14,14,19,12=59)
DM Cayzle to Syr Thursday June 12th, 2008 7:55:44 PM
Sorry, but the part of your turn that read, "he moves to AC3" -- that's not a simple five foot step. That's a full round's action and a Str check DC15 -- per the Web spell, even if you save, you still have to use a full round action and make a Str check to move. You need to move five feet to attack the FrogMan. To do that, you have to use a full round action and make a DC15 Str check. So you cannot attack this round unless you have a reach of 10 feet or a ranged weapon. Note that if you can attack with reach or a range weapon, the FrogMan's AC is at +4 due to cover provided by the Web.
Or if you have a flame source, you can burn the Webs away.
So try again, my friend.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d20+12=17 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 10:05:34 PM
Sensing an imminent attack from the creature, Wynn breaks into song with hope of neutralizing what he imagines will be a sonic affect. [Perform Countersong=17].
Fare thee well, my lovely Xenia, a thousand times adieu. We are bound away from the Holy Ground and the girls we love so true. We'll sail the salt seas over and we'll return once more, And still I live in hope to see the Holy Ground once more.
You're the girl that I adore, And still I live in hope to see the Holy Ground once more.
The singing half-elf draws his sword as he advances on the creature.
New Position =P14
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AB2 d20+7=27 ; d20+18=35 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 11:12:31 PM
Syr bulls his way through the web easily to reach the frogman (natural 20) and grabs the smaller creature by the throat (Grapple), "Now why would you want to do that for? I just want to get past and you and your web are slowing me down."
(OOC: I stand corrected, thanks Cayzle and I also appreciated the time it took for a hyperlnk in the DM post. Now if only I would have used it. When I read it, I wasn't sure if I could initiate a grapple but I figured the natural 20 should be good for something.)
DM Cayzle to Syr Thursday June 12th, 2008 11:21:06 PM
Well, we're getting there! The thing is, the Web spell says, "Each round devoted to moving allows the creature to make a new Strength check or Escape Artist check. The creature moves 5 feet for each full 5 points by which the check result exceeds 10." And if you devote a round to moving, there is no time left in the round to initiate the grapple. Sorry.
Duels A-Plenty (Round Two) (DM Cayzle) d20+13=31 ; d20+17=23 [conc checks]; d20+17=20 ; d20+12=20 [2 att on Bralin]; d20+18=33 ; 2d4+6=10 ; 5d6=21 [Crab att and dam vs Florin]; d20+22=25 [grapple check]; 2d6=4 [deaf duration]; 5d6=19 [Shout damage]; d20+8=16 Spell Penetration check; Friday June 13th, 2008 12:44:24 AM
This is the third DM post for the week.
Syr vs the Mystic FrogMan (AC15, entangled)
Syr pushes his way forward through the Webs, until he is right next to the FrogMage. Moving takes all of Syr's efforts for the round. The creature tries to cast a spell. First, he has to succeed on a DC20 Concentration check to cast because he is entangled. Then, he has to succeed on a DC20 Concentration check to cast on the defensive so that Syr does not get an AoO. The first check is a 31; the other is a 23. The FrogMan casts his Teleport without mishap, and blips away. [OOC: Syr does not know where he went; 20 feet worth of Webs provides total cover. But in fact, he blipped to H2. Syr, feel free to move howsoever you like: Toward the door in order to somehow pass it; or back whence you came in search of the key. Remember that it is a full round action to move through Webs, and the distance you travel is five feet for every five points by which you beat a DC10 Str check.]
Bralin vs the Angry ShellGuy (AC27)
Bralin takes a step, draws his weapon, and hits for 18 hp damage. The ShellGuy has DR2/- and only takes 16 damage. He too steps back, and makes two attacks with a full attack action. They both hit AC20, and so both miss.
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin moves forward to S8, read to fight. Unfortunately, the Crab is too far to charge. The Blue ElectroCrab steps forward ten feet and attacks with a pincer. Florin's metal armor and shield seems to make it easier for the ElectroCrab to attack him. The pincer hits AC33, inflicting 10 physical damage and 21 electrical damage. with a shock.
Also, the crab gets a free grapple attack (Improved Grab). Florin's Grapple DC is 26 (10+BAB+Str). The Crab's Grapple check is a +22. The Crab's grapple check is a 25! Not good enough to grab Florin!
Theo vs the Poison Tentacrawler (AC20)
Theo waits until the tentacle monster gets close, then Dim Doors just past the door to the space beyond it! He is through! He won his match!
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
Wynn uses his countersong to beat the undead's sound attack. He draws his weapon and advances, singing. The undead thing Shouts at him. Wynn can use his Perform check or his own save against the effect. The Save DC is 20, so the Perform Check 17 does not help. Thus Wynn now has to make a Fort Save vs DC 20. If he fails, he is deafened for four rounds and takes 19 hp sonic damage. If he makes the save, he is not deafened, and takes 9 hp sonic damage.
Xenia vs the Wall of Water (AC4)
Xenia cleverly squeezingly blinks past the Water Wall. She races to the door and Blinks through! She wins! Xenia is through the door!
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley quickly casts Spell Resistance and Quickened Shield of Faith. The former gives SR23. The Duck tries another empowered Magic Missile. The duck casts as an 8th level caster, and rolls a 16 -- not enough to break though. He quacks in annoyance.
==========
The other Pilgrims have started to engage their opponents.
OOC to Theo and Xenia: Highlight to display spoiler: {You both end up in the same place -- the doors lead to a grand chamber, like a throne room, with matching thrones. On the thrones are two giant dwarves. One is tall and skinny, with a little goatee. The other is tall and stout, with a full beard, and a smiling face. "Ha! First Round!" shouts the stout one. "Well Done! Pay Up, You Rascal!" The skinny one scowls and hands over two jingling bags.}
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d20+6=10 ; d100=14 ; Friday June 13th, 2008 8:13:38 AM
Wynn shudders under the creatures attack as the blast of sound penetrates his feeble attempts to defend himself. Unable to hear he presses forward to attack. He tries to activate his ring but cannot quite get the words out properly [Failed 20% failure chance].
New Position S14
Bralin (AC 27, 121/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) Friday June 13th, 2008 8:30:57 AM
The turtle creature wants to keep him from the door. No matter, it wasn't Bralin's intent. The dwarf is more interested in the sparking energy on his opponent's weapon.
Instead of moving forward, Bralin backs up. He drops his axe, sketching a spell and slapping his thigh even as the axe clatters on pavement. The warrior bends down only a little, catching the handle as it rebounds from the floor. In a flash, he is back up, awaiting his foe's attack.
[5' step to H5, drop axe, cast spell, pick up axe] [Cast Resist Energy (electricity, caster level 7, so absorbs 20 hp electricity per attack]
Spells in effect - Resist Energy (electricity) [20]
Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (d) = Domain Spell 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), Resist Energy (cold), *Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 -- Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, *Summon Monster III 4 -- Freedom of Movement }
Xenia (AC24, 25 vs Dire Rat, 50% Miss Chance; 68/68HP) d20+14=16 ; d6=1 ; 5d6=16 ; Friday June 13th, 2008 10:02:31 AM
The roguish girl spares the briefest of moments for an incredulous face.
The head dwarfish weerdos?
"Theo! C'mon, we gotta get these doors open. And I can tell you, picking the locks is gonna take too long."
"That one's Syr. That one's Bralin. That one's a one of Marj's folks ... " Going down the line, she points at each counting from memory. Burn down the doors or sump'in. I'm gonna go help folks out."
She picks a door to work on herself, and blinks through back through. Down the way stands Manny, with a big nasty looking rat closing in.
"Hold on, Manny!" Drawing her rapier as she goes, the dark rogue shoots down the glass corridor. She dodges away from the snapping teeth as she passes the rat, and plants herself between the boy and his foe.
"C'mon, you. You wanna bit on sum'pin, lets you and me go at it."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Rolls and Actions Ignore the rolls above. I mistakenly thought Manny was in the row below Xenia.
Position: N13 (100ft move, take AoO AC vs Dire Rat on AoO is 29 with Mobility.)
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (5/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:59/111 d20+17=25 ; d20+12=30 ; d10+6=7 ; d10+6=13 ; Friday June 13th, 2008 9:50:38 PM
Florin growls lightly under his breath at the blows given by the giant electric crab and is also glad for dropping the electric ability of his sword since he doubt it would harm this creature. Florin swings his bastardsword at the crab to try and return the favor though, feeling the blade sink in with both hits. He just prays this battle doesn't last much longer.
(Can hit AC:25/30 Damage:7/13 for:20)
(OOC:LOL, noticed something after looking over Florin's CS. If he survives this and gets back to town he really has to get some healing items.)
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AB2 d20+7=20 ; Saturday June 14th, 2008 1:45:41 AM
Puzzled that he was able to reach the little frog quickly but that he still had time to cast a spell he mutters, "Wow! darn little guy must be using that haste spell Angus told me about cause this little web sure didn't keep me from getting to him in time." He looks back at the door to see if the Frogman is behind him. Seeing no one, he presses forward moving 10'.
Syr wonders how the enWebbed FrogMage managed to cast his Teleport spell and get away. The simple answer -- he concentrated! One concentration check let him cast while entangled. A second check let him cast defensively without provoking an attack from Syr. With those two checks, the Teleport spell worked. [OOC: Sorry I did not make that clearer.]
Nonetheless, Syr decids to press on. He moves to Z2, pushing through the Webs by brute Strength.
The Frogman Casts a spell (Shield).
Bralin vs the Angry ShellGuy (AC27)
Bralin takes a step back, casts Electricity Resistance, and readies for an attack. And attacks come! The Tiny TurtleMan's first attack is a crit threat (Nat 19, Improved Critical) that confirms! The creature is using a +1 shocking viscious thunder glaive. The crit means means tripled base damage (+12+11+11) plus viscious damage (+9) plus thunder (sonic) damage (+9). That's 52 hp damage plus a Fort save vs DC14 or be deafened. (I'm ignoring the 1d6 shock damage since it does not apply). The barbs on the Glaive's hilt inflict 3 hp to the ShellGuy.
The creature's second attack hits AC31 for 15 to Bralin, and inflicts another 3 on himself. The ShellGuy has taken a total of 22 hp damage.
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin strikes back, hitting the Crab for 20. The Crab tries to pinch Florin, and it hits AC25 for 9 damage. More to the point, it grabs Florin and manages to get a hold of the paladin with its massive claws. Florin is Grappled and will take pinch damage next round with no need for an attack roll.
Theo
No post from Theo.
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
[OOC: Per the SRD: "A deafened character cannot hear. She takes a -4 penalty on initiative checks, automatically fails Listen checks, and has a 20% chance of spell failure when casting spells with verbal components." There is no chance of error in item activation due to deafness. Wynn can activate his ring. Please post again.]
Xenia
Xenia seeks to return to help her friends. She shouts to Theo, blips through a door, and moves to interpose herself between Manfred and the Dire Rat approaching him. She ends her turn in front of the boy, weapon drawn.
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
No post.
==========
Only for Theo and Xenia: Highlight to display spoiler: {The giant dwarves are both clearly upset that Xenia has returned to a fight. "This comes out of your credit!" the skinny one says to the stout one. "Fine! But maybe we can fix this."
Xenia hears them both address her with the same words: "Dear, come here now and do not interfere with the fighting. Do not worry, no one will get killed." These are essentially suped-up Suggestions. Please make two Will DC24 saves or follow the suggestions!}
==========
Map to come if/when I get a couple more posts this weekend.
Xenia (AC24, 25 vs Dire Rat, 50% Miss Chance; 68/68HP) 2nd Post Saturday June 14th, 2008 10:38:48 AM
Huh? Wha! The girl rogue nearly locks into a freeze as the voices invade her head. Her green eyes move from side to side, taking in the fighting and magicing and other manners of mayhem. Florin in the claws of the giant crab. Bralin cut badly by the tiny turtle guy. A trail of blood leaking from Wynn's ears.
"Ooooooooooooo!!!"
Yeah! 'Kay! A'right! The rogue thinks in reply. The tip of her rapier lowers, and she prepares to rise up and fly back down the magic hallway.
"Here's your chance for a taste of hero'ing, Manny. Think o' this though, and this is just what I think, the real hero'ing part is not the fighting. It's how you think and feel 'bout the fighting after it's done."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
OoC: This is a half post attached to last round's action. Full post will leave pending further player responses. Didn't want to upset the time sync. No Will save necessary.
Rolls and Actions See above
Position: N13 (100ft move, take AoO AC vs Dire Rat on AoO is 29 with Mobility.)
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (5/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d100=30 ; d20+14=21 ; d8+5=7 ; Saturday June 14th, 2008 12:44:10 PM
The only sound the bard can hear is the pounding of blood as it rushes back and forth past the battered membranes of his inner ear. The pounding is out of phase with his blinking (ring activated last round) further compounding his disorientation. Nonetheless, Wynn closes with his adversary and slashes at the creature with his adamantine longsword [%miss for blinking=30/pass, hit AC=21 for 7 dmg]
New position = T14
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:50/111 d20+17=30 ; d20+12=15 ; d10+6=15 ; d20+16=24 ; Sunday June 15th, 2008 2:33:17 AM
(OOC:Cayzle, I'm going to make to posts here a either or. Considering I figure it would be possible Florin's arm might be free for the first one.)
Florin growls out, "You might have me but I'm not going down without a fight you over sized side dish." With this Florin raises his sword to slash at the crab or it's claw. (Can hit AC30/15 Damage:15/miss)
(I didn't add or minus anything from my attach so if that post is useable then add or subtract as needed.)
If Florin's arms are totally pinned then he will do his best to break free, seeing little choice since he has no way of fighting like this. (Grapple:24 *to break free*)
Bralin (AC 27, 54/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) d20+19=27 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+12=15 ; d10+10=11 ; Sunday June 15th, 2008 10:24:54 AM
The glaive hits Bralin with a sonic concussion, which barely even registers due to the pain of the blow. [Fort 27]
Standing against the wall, he really has no options other than fight. Which he does. The axe flashes once, and again. [Atk ac 30 for 11 hp damage. miss ac 15]
Bralin begins circling once more. ['5' step toward the far door]
Harley (AC 34; HPs 86/107) Sunday June 15th, 2008 9:26:45 PM
Harley casts Righteous Might Using his Rod of Extend. He moves 15' closer to the duck.
Location: K18 with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 1/3
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Monday June 16th, 2008 12:30:43 PM
Theodore moves to Florin's door and tries to open it. (Is there a way to open from this side?)
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 7 rounds
Duels A-Plenty (Round Three-Point-Five) (DM Cayzle) d100=34 ; d20+8=17 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 4:55:59 PM
Catching up from last time:
Theo
Theo tries to open a door from the other side, but there is no handle and the door seems magically held.
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
Wynn advances and attacks, but cannot do more than nick the bones of the skeletal thing. (DR 5/blunt means that 7 hp damage is really 2). The undead lizard thing lunges, but fails to hit due to blinking.
Xenia
Xenia backs off, and then is no longer to be seen in the fighting arena. Now she and Theo are beyond the doors.
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley moves closer and casts a spell. The DuckMan tries another Magic Missile (its third and last of the day), but once again fails to penetrate the spell resistance.
==========
Only for Theo and Xenia: Highlight to display spoiler: {The giant dwarves are both clearly upset that Xenia has returned to a fight. "This comes out of your credit!" the skinny one says to the stout one. "Fine! But maybe we can fix this."
Xenia hears them both address her with the same words: "Dear, come here now and do not interfere with the fighting. Do not worry, no one will get killed." These are essentially suped-up Suggestions. Please make two Will DC24 saves or follow the suggestions!}
==========
Map to come later tonite. I now have Round 4 posts for Florin and Bralin. You two hold off while I get more Round 4 posts from the rest of youse for Round 4.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AB2 d20+7=12 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 5:18:21 PM
Syr continues trudging onward through the web looking for the frogman but makes very little progress.
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Monday June 16th, 2008 8:14:41 PM
One last look. One last look at Wynn and the others, fighting for their lives. Faith. Trust. It's hard. To put all that's warm, all you care about, into the hands of a couple of crazy giant dwarfs. Gambling with lives in way more true than any other.
"Hey! So I'm guessing you're Boydos. Am I right?" The rogue's voice rings out across the grand chamber even as she phases through the door. "I mean, that would sure 'splain the weerdos outside your tower here."
"Hey, Theo." She hails the wizard in a softer voice. "They don't want us going back in. They spoke that in my head. They promised that no one would die."
"Think we should trust 'em?"
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Position: AE13
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (4/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 9:12:05 AM
Theodore turns from the door as Xenia speaks to him. He looks from her to the two dwarves on their thrones and then shrugs.
"I don't know," he says softly. "Chaos isn't really known for being honest. Truth is more of an order thing, in my opinion."
He shakes his head and looks back into the passages where all of his friends are locked, fighting for their...health?
"So what's the point of this all? A test of bravery? A bet?"
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 6 rounds
Harley (AC 34; HPs 97/118) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 9:55:37 AM
Harley casts Divine Power using his Rod of Extend and casts Quickened Divine Favor. He stows his rod away.
He then dismisses the Blade Barrier (is this a free action?).
Location: K18 with Flail in right hand and buckler in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 2/3
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 10:45:41 AM
"Yeah," the rogue replies. "Probs both, I'm thinking. Not sure whether they're dangerous or not, Theo. Not yet, leastwise. I mean, one of them called me 'Dear' when they was talking in my head."
"Hi, I'm Xenia." She gives her signature hand wave. "Nice to meetcha, Misters Boydos. Um, I was thinking. If no one was going to get killed here, maybe, would it be asking too much to have stuff ready for when the folks get themselves outta there?"
"I mean, I'm thinking in lines of maybe, you know, food? I mean, being gods and all, you know, could you whip up a table full of mixed fruit, maybe some sandwich fixings, and an assortment of beverages?"
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Position: AE13
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (4/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Syr tries to move forward but this round makes little headway. The Mystic Frog casts another spell.
Bralin vs the Angry ShellGuy (AC27)
Bralin continues to fight on, inflicting 11 hp damage and shifting a step. The creature swings back twice, hitting AC31 and 28 for 14 hp and 11 hp, and inflicting 7 more on himself. He has taken a total of 40 hp damage.
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin is grappled. These are his options for things you can do while grappled:
1) Activate a Magic Item. 2) Attack Your Opponent with an unarmed strike, a natural weapon, or light weapon (You take a -4 penalty on such attacks) 3) Cast a Spell. 4) Damage Your Opponent (by wrestling). 5) Draw a Light Weapon as a move action with a successful grapple check. 6) Escape from Grapple with a successful grapple check. 7) Move: You can move half your speed (bringing all others engaged in the grapple with you) by winning an opposed grapple check. 8) Retrieve a Spell Component 9) Pin Your Opponent
A lot of options require a successful Grapple Check. That means, against this foe, that you have to make a Grapple check vs DC28. The check you make is 1d20 +BAB+Str, which for Florin means 1d20+16.
You cannot attack with your current weapon -- the bastard sword is too big. You can draw your dagger as a move action with a successful grapple check and then attack at -4. Let me know if you want any other info on your options.
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
WAITING FOR POST
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley beefs up with Extended Divine Power and Quickened Divine Favor. To dismiss the blade barrier will require a standard action, per the SRD.
The Duckman seems to be ready for something (readies an action).
Theo and Xenia
Spoiler for Theo and Xenia: Highlight to display spoiler: {Theo asks what the point of all this is. "A test of bravery? A bet?" The dwarves laugh together, and nod. The stout one says, "Yes, indeed! We wager on the outcome of the fights, and very entertaining they are, too!"
Xenia says, "Nice to meetcha, Misters Boydos." and the giant dwarves laugh again. "Oh, I'm not Boydos," says the stout one. "Me neither," says the skinny one. "I'm Jangle," says the stout one, "and this is my brother, Tangle." "Charmed," the skinny one says, ironically.
They seem distracted, as if paying attention to something else.
But the stout one smiles at Xenia's suggestion of food. "Good idea!" He gestures, and a table appears filled with meat and drink.}
==========
And the Map -- to come after Wynn posts!
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:27:44 PM
Xenia's practiced eye sweeps the tables for the best bits of food. Grabbing up a plate, she begins assembling two sandwiches, one for herself and the other for Wynn.
"I think I heard of you some place 'afore. Can't quite put my finger on where, but your names sound familiar"
"But if you're not, Boydos," she asks, "whatcha doing in his tower?"
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Position: around table
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (4/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Wynn [AC=26; HP=68/75] d20+11=12 ; d100=2 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 11:34:11 PM
Everything is going wrong for the bard. Perhaps it is part of the chaos of passing back and forth through material and etherial planes, or just bad luck. Be that as it may, his attempt to tumble past the creature is unsuccessful and his hit misses.
Tumble=12 Mischance=2
Syr AC 31 HP 142 AA2 d20+7=15 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 12:17:10 AM
Syr continues to make very slow progress and begins grunting his frustrations with each tangled step through the webs.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 2/3
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Wednesday June 18th, 2008 9:48:39 AM
Theodore decides to hold off on the food and drink for the moment. "What happens when they get out of those tunnels? Are there any more tests ahead?"
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 5 rounds
Bralin (AC 27, 29/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) d20+17=21 ; d20+12=26 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 9:53:35 AM
[OOC - For what its worth, Bralin's done 20, 16, and 9 damage to Rafeal here by himself.]
Bralin grunts at the impact of the turtle's glaive. It appears he has met a better warrior.
The dwarf begins his death song, a deep, bass, montone hum that would echo very nicely if he was in a cavern. As he sings, he attacks again. [ac 21 and ac 26 - miss and miss]
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:50/111 d20+12=26 ; d20+7=15 ; d3+5=7 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 2:02:43 PM
Florin sees little other choice so he releases his hold of his bastardsword, the crab was to strong to break free from easily anyway. After releasing his bastardsword he balls up his fist and begins slugging at the crab, "I hope I give you indegestion you shelled side dish." He almost laughs as he thinks of Syr commenting on him looking like a barbarian a long time back when the group went into that temple like place and ran into the wood creature that hurt Xenia pretty bad till he ran it through with his glaive and shoved it over the side with him too...He wonders if Syr will pick on his about thinking he is a monk now instead.
(Can hit AC:26/15 Damage:7/miss)
Duels A-Plenty (Last Bits of Round Four) (DM Cayzle) d100=49 ; d100=12 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 3:26:24 PM
Wynn tries to tumble past his foe and fails. That provokes an AoO. The undead lizard just misses as Wynn blinks out at the last moment.
Wynn tries to attack but his own blinking throws him off.
Then the skeletal creature attacks, and that too is a miss.
Duels A-Plenty (OOC Pre-Round Five) (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 18th, 2008 3:28:27 PM
I have Round 5 posts in for Xenia, Syr, Harley, Theo, Bralin, and Florin. Let's see if I can get a post in for Wynn. With luck, I can post the Round Five DM post soon.
Wynn d100=67 ; d20+14=17 ; d8+5=9 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 1:03:30 AM
The bard stabs at the lizard with his adamantine longsword [%miss for blinking=67/pass, hit AC=17 for 9 dmg], then steps back towards the exit without turning his back on the creature.
[OOC: Syr was in Z2 in Round 3 (See DM post of 14 June). In Round 4 he moved five feet to Y2, and in Round 5 he moved ten feet to W2. I go into this in detail because your stated position on the map does not match mine. We'll go with mine.]
Syr moves to the edge of the Webs. Next round he can move and act normally. He sees the Mystic FrogMan at the other end of the hall.
The FrogMan tries to delay Syr's approach by putting an Ice Storm in his path. There is no saving throw. If Syr chooses to enter the storm, take 3d6 bludgeoning damage and 2d6 cold damage (you can roll it). Moreover, until the FrogMan's next turn, movement through the Ice Storm is at half speed.
Bralin vs the Angry ShellGuy (AC27)
[OOC: Correction -- the ShellGuy has inflicted 13 hp vicious damage on himself and taken 45 from Bralin for a total of 58 hp damage before round 5. Thanks for helping me get that straight.]
Bralin, expecting the worst, having taken almost 100 hp damage, attacks and misses twice. The tiny raging TurtleMan attacks with that tiny but viscious glaive of his, hitting AC37 for 18, and AC31 for 11 hp. That brings Bralin down to exactly zero! Then Bralin disappears! So does his foe!
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Round 4: Florin attacks with his fists, hitting once for 7 hp nonlethal damage. The Crab makes a grapple check to crush Florin, rolling a 30 vs Florin's Grapple DC is 26 to do 13 damage.
Round 5: I need actions for Florin for this round and for round 6!
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
Wynn attacks, inflicting 9 hp damage, but only 4 of that affects the undead thing. Then Wynn backs away toward the exit. The undead thing follows and attacks, but misses.
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
The buffed Harley dismisses his spell and moves up, ready for action. The DuckMan tries a lightning bolt -- and his spell penetration check is a 19 -- not enough.
Theo and Xenia
Highlight to display spoiler: {Theo asks if there are any more tests. "Bah!" says the skinny Tangle. "We are not like Marteus, God of Tests! We are just having a little fun, is all. The best part is that I'm thinking you are maybe even real, from outside the Tower."
"There IS no 'outside' the Tower!" shouts Jangle.
"Not that argument again, please," says Tangle.
Xenia asks Jangle and Tangle what they are doing here in Boydos's Tower. Jangle grins, and says, "We're not Boydos, but we know him real well. He's our dad."
Tangle looks at him incredulously. "No we're not! We're creations of his dreaming mind! I thought we agreed on that!"
Jangle chuckles and says, "YOU were all gung ho on the 'avatar' idea, so don't give me that!"
It sounds like they might get into an argument, but then one of them says, "Look!" and they turn to the doors, as if looking through them at the duels going on beyond. "I'll concede him," says Jangle.}
Spoiler for Bralin, Xenia and Theo: Highlight to display spoiler: {Bralin, you are in a large room furnished with chairs, tables, and two thrones. Two large-size dwarves are sitting on the thrones. There is a feast laid out on the table, and Xenia is making sandwiches. Theo is holding back. The stouter dwarf looks glumly at Bralin and says, "Well, I'm still up by one! and More are coming!}
Other Fights
You probably notice Marjery killing her opponent with a Flame Strike and taking its key. The other Pilgrims are also fighting as best they can. Two others seem victorious, and are headed for the doors. Another is down, and Manfrey seems to be wrestling his rat foe.
Bralin (AC 27, 0/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) Thursday June 19th, 2008 3:43:52 PM
Bralin is not sure what he expected to find in Gargul's Lands, but Xenia making a sandwich wasn't it.
A very puzzled dwarf wordlessly surveys the rogue, the wizard, the dwarfs on thrones, and finally, just now remembering he'd just been pretty much slaughtered, the condition of his own body.
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Thursday June 19th, 2008 3:58:18 PM
Eyes, cat wide, Xenia freezes. A plate, topped by a half built sandwich, rests upon the palm of one hand. A thin slice of roast beef, hangs, pinched neatly in two fingers of the other.
"Oh. Bralin. It's just you." The rogue lays the slice of roast beef atop the stack. "How'd yer fight go? You were taking on that little guy."
"This is Tangly and Jangly," she sucks the tips of her fingers before jerking a thumb over her shoulder at the two dwarf-like guys on the two thrones for guys like dwarves. "They ... um ... belong to Boydos. I guess. They're the ones who set all this stuff up."
"Hey. That room with all the undead Alemic priests who thought they were still alive, and that chasm with the lightning going off all the time, was that your making too?"
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Position: around table
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (3/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Thursday June 19th, 2008 4:39:38 PM
Theodore appears happy to have Bralin with them. He pokes the dwarf's shoulder to make sure he's real.
"Are you okay?" he asks. "There's food." The wizard points to the tables groaning with nourishment.
Macaw decides to flit over and have a look. His desired fare doesn't seem to be available as he searches the table, hopping about.
"Worms? Worms?" he calls.
"Well," Theodore continues his conversation with Jangle and Tangle. "If there are no more tests, how much further through this tower do we have to go."
He pauses for a moment and then turns to Xenia. "What are we looking for, anyway? I thought we just wanted to see Marjery and Manfrey safely to the tower. Are we going to see Boydos, himself?"
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 4 rounds
Harley (AC 34; HPs 97/118) Thursday June 19th, 2008 5:39:07 PM
OOC Minor clarification - Harley is large sized now.
OOC Question - Can Harley tell if the duck man has a weapon? Can he tell what the duck man's reach will be?
Cayzle -- Sorry! I'll fix your size next map. The Duck Man has claws on his wing-arm-hands, and a sharp beak.
Harley (AC 39; HPs 97/118) d20+20=24 ; d20+16=19 ; d20+16=25 ; d20+20=37 ; 2d6+14=16 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 10:35:12 PM
Harley moves closer to the duck. He stops 10' away from the creature and with his enlarge size lashes outs with his flail. He strikes cautiously so that he can defend against the duck's counter-attack (combat expertise for 5). Harley aims low on the duck and the chain of his flail wraps around the creature and drags it to the ground. Not wasting any time, Harley continues with his swing and smacks the duck pretty hard.
Touch Attack: 24 Trip Attempt: 25 (use hero point on the 19) Melee Attack: 37 Damage: 16
Location: U18:V19 with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 2/3
Wynn [AC=26; HP=66/75] d20+11=25 ; d100=1 ; d6=2 ; Thursday June 19th, 2008 10:54:22 PM
Wynn sees that his path to the door at the far end of the tunnel is unobstructed and makes his way towards it, tumbling away from the shrieking creature if necessary [Tumble=25]. Upon reaching the end, Wynn attempts to blink through the door, only to be repelled [Blink=1 fail, 2 hp damage]
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:37/111 d20+12=19 ; d20+7=12 ; d3+5=8 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+7=9 ; d3+5=8 ; Friday June 20th, 2008 7:06:18 PM
Florin continues trying to hit the crab with his fist as breaking the grapple would be abit useless of a attempt.
(Can hit AC:19/12 Damage:8/miss)
(Florin would of attacked the other round also so attack rolls. Can hit AC:27/9 Damage:8/miss)
(Whhoohooo, if Florin lived long enough he has done like 43 or such points of damage so far. Of course part of it is subdual.)
Duels A-Plenty (Round Six) (DM Cayzle) d100=99 [To which side does Wynn blink?]; d20+22=31 ; d20+22=33 ; 4d4+12=23 [atts on Florin]; Sunday June 22nd, 2008 12:02:23 PM
Syr vs the Mystic FrogMan (AC17)
No Post. Next time please post for two rounds.
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin continues to pummel the crab, inflicting 16 more hp subdual damage -- and the crab squeezes him back in return, inflicting 23 more points of lethal damage. Alas, this strategy does not seem to be working, since the Crab, though pretty beat up, is not as bad off as our Florin!
Wynn vs the Screaming Undead Bone Lizard (AC20)
Wynn attempts to blink through the door and out, but alas, misjudges the blink and end up stuck partway through. He has a 50-50 chance of ending up on one side or the other, and the DM's die roll puts Wynn soundly past the door! He escapes and wins! See spoiler below, please.
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
The large Harley trips his foe and then smacks it for 16 damage. The prone DuckMan activates a supernatural ability, which does not provoke an AoO and which bypasses Spell Resistance. It is an Aura of Fear. Harley must make a DC17 Will save or be panicked for 8 rounds; if he succeeds, he is still shaken for one round unless he has some immunity to fear.
After that, hoping the panicked Harley will not be taking AoOs, the DuckMan stands up. If only shaken, of course, Harley can take an AoO as normal (with the Shaken penalties). Note that you cannot Trip a creature standing from prone.
Also note that the DuckMan's Trip DC is a 16, and you fail on a natural 1, 2, and 3. DuckMan AC24, has taken 16 damage.
Theo, Bralin, Xenia, and Wynn
Highlight to display spoiler: {Wynn, Marjery, and two pilgrims (one really beat up!) come through their doors. Another pilgrim blips in like Bralin did, wounded, bleeding, and unconscious.
The newcomers see that they are in a Throne Room. The doors are behind you. There are two thrones, both occupied. The one holds a ten-foot tall skinny dwarf. He looks kind of constipated, an you will learn he gives his name as Tangle. The other holds a stouter dwarf, eight feet tall, smiling, called Jangle. Jangle smiles at all the newcomers, and laugh as Tangle hands him a bulging sack.
"I'm up quite a bit so far, hey, brother!" Jangle chortles. "Good work!" he says to Wynn and Marjery.
There are also tables and chairs, and the tables are set for a feast. Wynn sees Xenia has a plate with two sandwiches.
Resuming the conversation, Jangle tells Xenia that the undead healers was not him. "Probably a dream of Boydos's that you stumbled into. The lightning chasm, not us either, but we did see that. Sweet work with the lightning rod, there, cutie! That's what inspired me to bet on you all!"
"Dumb luck!" scowls Tangle.
Macaw looks for worms, and after a moment's search, finds some!
Theo, after noting that Bralin is tottering on the edge of unconsciousness, is interested in some answers. How much further through this tower do we have to go? Tangle looks puzzled. "How far did you want to go? Are you looking for something? Why did you enter the tower?"
"Why do you think you entered the Tower," asks Jangle.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:14/111 d20+8=25 ; d20+3=5 ; d3+5=6 ; Sunday June 22nd, 2008 1:13:33 PM
Florin continues his hammering of his fist to the crab, his lay on hands would not heal enough damage anyway so there was little reason to try just to be squeezed to death in the end. His summons up all the power he can into his swing (power attack) and is awarded with a hit and yet another miss, this one probably being his last he thinks as he awaits the squeeze.
(Can hit AC:25/5 Damage:6(+4 for power attack=10)/miss)
(I really need to look over my sheet more carefully though. The cloak of displacement might of made the first part of the battle easier and allowed Florin to survive longer.)
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Sunday June 22nd, 2008 7:41:04 PM
"Well, it just didn't feel quite safe for them priesty pilgrim guys yet, Theo," the rogue says in reply. "I mean, the tower and all. It was still too weird. 'Sides, Wynn was going, and where Wynn goes, I'm gonna go too."
"Wynn!" Xenia throws herself into the arms of most loved. "We got samwiches," she says, as if that explains it all. "So who's still out there?" The keen eyed rogue counts heads. "Syr, Florin, Harley, and Manny." She tuts over Wynn's various injuries. "Looks like a lotta us aren't feeling too good."
"Hey! Oh Tangle and Oh Jangle, um, since you're being so hospitable, how 'bout whipping up some nice comfy beds for the night, huh? And some baths. Baths would be nice. A big tub for me and Wynn to share, please."
The smile on her dark face falls then, and her eyes turn inward.
"Too bad you couldn't do nothing for Simon, though."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (2/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Harley (AC 30; HPs 97/118) d20+17=24 ; d20+18=23 ; 2d6+14=17 ; d20+21=41 ; d20+21=31 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+11=28 ; 4d6+40=51 ; 2d6+20=27 ; Sunday June 22nd, 2008 11:12:17 PM
OOC -- Where does it say that you cannot make a trip attempt on someone standing up?
Harley feels a wave of fear come from the duck man. His mind is too strong to be swayed however (will save 24). Harley lashes out with his flail when the duck leaves an opening by standing up.
AoO attack: 23 (I think this is a hit as I get +4 if he is prone) AoO damage: 17
The shaken Harley goes all out and attacks the duck man. He does not fight defensively this round or try to trip his opponent. He just grabs his flail 2-handed and adds a little more power to his swings (power attack for 1).
Melee Attacks: 41(31), 22 & 28 Damage: 51, 0 & 27
Location: U18:V19 with Flail in right hand and buckler and rod in left hand.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 2/3
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Monday June 23rd, 2008 7:00:30 AM
OoC - On Attacks of Opportunity.
AoO's happen *before* your opponent's action occurs. As your opponent, at this point, has not stood (is still prone) s/he cannot be tripped. Works the same for picking up after Disarm.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=66/75] Monday June 23rd, 2008 7:42:24 AM
The bard emerges through the door and stumbles to a stop, blood still trickling from his ears. He returns Xenia's embrace, but her words are lost on him. Her enthusiasm brings some relief as he assumes if danger were imminent she would not be so light hearted. He shakes his head in a vain attempt to regain his hearing, and looks about the room.
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Monday June 23rd, 2008 9:09:01 AM
Theodore seems to only just now notice that Bralin isn't in good shape. The wizard puts a hand on the dwarf's shoulder. "Maybe you should have a seat for a moment. You look about to fall over."
If Bralin allows it, Theodore will help the dwarf to a place to sit. And then others start coming through, most of them hurt.
"Hey, Wynn." Theodore gives the bard a quick smile before seeing to the unconscious pilgrim.
He squats over the body and looks over to Marjery. "Your friend could use some help, here."
Over on the table, Macaw seems happy to be gobbling up some worms.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 3 rounds
Bralin (AC 27, 0/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) 4d20+7=63 ; 4d8+7=28 ; Monday June 23rd, 2008 9:30:15 AM
Still very confused, Bralin allows himself to be led by Theo to a nearby chair, which he collapses upon.
It slowly dawns on him that he might still be alive, prompting the dwarf to takes some steps to see if just might stay that way for a while longer.
He casts a spell, healing a portion of his wounds. [CCW over Freedom of Movement] - heals 28 hp.
OOC - How many hp does Bralin have now?
Syr AC 31 HP 142 Y2 d20+7=14 ; d20+7=13 ; Monday June 23rd, 2008 10:34:29 PM
Syr continues to struggle in vain to get closer to the amphibian. He peers through the webs at the others beside him and realizes several of them have made it out. Frustrated he yells at the Frogman, "Just give me the darn key, I really don't want to have to hurt you! Isn't it enough just to watch me try and struggle back to the door?"
(OOC: Sorry Cayzle, my home internet access went boom which is wierd considering my cable TV still works. No reason the cable modem should not. Position: Friday the 13th, he tried to grapple in the same spot as the frogman. Saturday he moved 10', Monday no movement, Wednesday 5' that should put him in Y2 and still spinning his wheels.)
(OOC:
DM Cayzle to Syr (Rounds Five To Seven) (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 7:11:34 AM Syr vs the Mystic FrogMan (AC17)
[OOC: Gosh, I gotta say, please please read the DM Posts. Like I said on Thursday, "Syr was in Z2 in Round 3 (See DM post of 14 June). In Round 4 he moved five feet to Y2, and in Round 5 he moved ten feet to W2. I go into this in detail because your stated position on the map does not match mine. We'll go with mine." Seriously, we'll go with my reckoning. Specifically, the Web spell rules say you move on a DC10 Str check, plus another five feet for every 5 over 10 that you roll. If you only moved on a 15, the rules would have called that a DC15 check! At this point, I'm going to rule that you waited in Round 6 at the edge of the Web ...]
Round 5: Syr moves 10 feet to the edge of the Web. The FrogMan casts Ice Storm.
Round 6: Syr waits for the Ice Storm to end. It does so at the start of the FrogMan's turn. The FrogMan casts Grease in front of Syr, 2-3-T-U. You can walk through the area at half normal speed -- each square counts as two -- IF you make a DC 10 Balance check. Failure means you can't move that round and you must then make a DC15 Reflex save or fall down. If you fail the Balance check by 5 or more, you fall down with no save.
Rounds 7-8: I need orders from Syr ASAP. If you want to see the results of your Round 7 orders before you post for Round 8, then I will make an extra DM post to bring you up to everyone else.
Duels A-Plenty (Round Seven) (DM Cayzle) d20+22=40 ; 2d4+6=14 [Florin is down!]; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 7:36:00 AM
Florin vs the Blue ElectroCrab (AC 17)
Florin continues to pummel the crab, inflicting 6 more hp nonlethal damage -- and the crab squeezes him hard with a grapple check 40. That hurts Florin to the tune of 14 more points of lethal damage -- and Florin is at -3 hp. Just as he goes unconscious, facing the clarity of possible death, Florin ponders for a moment the utility of that Cloak of Displacement in his backpack! [OOC: D'Oh! Well, as a player who has totally forgotten great magic items myself, I totally sympathize! Sorry!]
As Florin slumps, the Crab releases him, and he is teleported to the Throne Room (see below).
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley saves vs fear easily. He smacks the fragile bird as it stands up, and then smacks it hard again after that! Thin hollow bird bones splinter, and the creature crumples, dead after a crushing blow. Harley is now standing over the dead form of his foe. Harley's eyes are drawn to the key-amulet it wears.
[OOC: Al is exactly right about the Trip AoO. Thanks Al.]
Theo, Bralin, Xenia, and Wynn
Florin blips in, unconscious and bleeding. The giant dwarf named Jangle hands a bag over to the one named Tangle, smiling ruefully. Then you all hear a sound from behind Harley's door -- a THNACK! -- and both dwarves visibly wince. Tangle hands the bag back over to Jangle.
Xenia explains why she entered the Tower and asks the big dwarves if there will be beds. Tangle giggles and Jangle says, "We'll see. We have a palaver coming first."
Wynn, still deaf, struggles to take in the scene.
Theo urges Bralin to rest, and is about to ask Marjery if she wants to do some healing, when he sees that she is doing so already.
Bralin heals himself for 28 hit points, bringing him to 28 hit points.
A few more Pilgrims stagger through their doors, including Manfrey, who has a wide grin and a nasty bite on his cheek. Another couple blip in, bleeding and unconsious. Two Pilgrims remain unaccounted for, along with Syr and Harley.
MAP (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 7:44:43 AM
Showing Syr at the end of Round 6 and Harley at the end of Round 7.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=66/75] Tuesday June 24th, 2008 7:51:54 AM
The ringing in Wynn's ears finally stops and is replaced by the worst headache he has ever experienced. He wipes away the blood from his ear and smiles at Xenia. "It's nice to hear your voice" he means what he says. "Just what is going on here, and who are these two characters?"
Xenia (AC24, 50% Miss Chance; 60/68HP) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 8:53:54 AM
Xenia coos over Wynn's hurt ears.
"Um, that one's Tangle and the other one's Jangle. Or is it the other way 'round? Darn I swear I heard o' them some where before, you know. They say that they're sons or minions or sump'in of Boydos, but they can't decide which one it is."
"I mean, they're weird, but they don't seem like such bad guys."
"They made up all this food and stuff with just a wave of his hand. Tangle, that is. Or was it Jangle? And it's them what's responsible for all this door business too."
She leans over to kiss the blood from his ear.
"Not threatening. But more powerful than I've ever seen, Wynn," she whispers.
"And they say they wanna parlay 'bout sump'in."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m), Blinking (1/7)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 9:08:43 AM
As more people stagger or blip in, Theodore moves about trying to make them comfortable until healing arrives.
"Cuddling time is later," Theodore admonishes Xenia and Wynn. "Let's help these guys get back on their feet, first."
Not being a healer, himself, Theodore can do little besides direct those able to stand by their own devices over to one area, and move those unconscious or unable to move to another area. He brings food and water to those who request it.
His appetite satisfied, Macaw hops over to the immobile group of people and begins a soldierly march in front, apparently set to protect them from something.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 2 rounds
Harley (AC 30; HPs 97/118) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 12:37:27 PM
Harley kicks the bird for good measure, grabs the key and heads toward the door quickly. He opens and tries to find a way towards the other doors.
Bralin (AC 27, 28/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) d8+5=12 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 1:49:38 PM
Bralin snorts. The two dwarves, while apparently the cause of all this do not appear to be immediate threats. Xenia can banter with them.
The sight of the unconscious pilgrims shows his attentions are required there.
Ignoring the others, the black armored dwarf rises and heads over to help Marjery. He casts a healing spell on the first unconscious pilgrim he reaches. [CLW over Magic Stone - 12 hp healed]
Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (d) = Domain Spell 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, *Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), *Resist Energy (cold), Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 -- Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, *Summon Monster III 4 -- *Freedom of Movement }
Syr AC 31 HP 142 s2 d20+9=18 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+20=30 ; Tuesday June 24th, 2008 5:09:04 PM
Round 6 Frowning in concentration as he moves carefully across the slippery area (Balance Check 18) Syr looks up to see what his opponent may do in reaction.
Round 7: Assuming no suprises in Round 6, Syr makes a full move and attempts to grapple with the frogman (Touch Attack: Natural 20, Grapple check 30 (BAB+9, Str+7, Size? +4))
ROUND 6! Syr moves carefully through the Grease. Taking a double move, he ends up in 2I, right next to the spellcaster. He notes that the edges of the caster seems blurry. The Frogman casts Enervation, trying to drain Syr's life. His concentration check to do so on the defensive is a 35, no problem. His ranged touch attack hits AC10, however, and is a miss!
ROUND 7! Syr grapples the FrogMan. The FrogMan's Grapple DC is a 15, and Syr succeeds in grappling. Syr does normal monk damage as a result -- OOC: Please roll damage! Syr is entitled to a second grapple attack this round due to his high BAB; please roll that as well. The second attack, if successful, can be used to inflict more damage, or to pin the caster. Which is it?
Harley vs the Green DuckMan (AC24)
Harley grabs the key and makes his way out. The key opens the door, and Harley finds himself in the throne room, with almost everyone else.
Theo, Bralin, Xenia, Harley, Florin and Wynn
Wynn wants to know what is going on, and Xenia fills him in.
Theo does his best to organize and help the wounded. Bralin does the same, and so does Marjery.
The Dwarves seem intent on watching something -- the end of the last fight, most likely.
The final two pilgrims come in, one a winner, one a loser.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:/111 Wednesday June 25th, 2008 1:39:20 AM
(Cayzle: It doesn't matter really but I was wondering if I missed some things. Florin used power attack to add 4 points to his 6 damage to cause a total of 10. I doubt that was enough to kill the crab anyway but just commenting inless you can't power attack with your fist. Also, the crab squeezed Florin for 14 points of damage and he had 14, how did he go to -3? Just curious, 0 or -3, either way it was battle over.)
Florin sends a prayer as he is squeezed to death, wishing Jella the best and hoping his wife Ivy will be okay. However when he opens his eyes again and looks around he sees Xenia, Wynn, Bralin, Theo and some of the others, special the annoying bird since it is making alot of noise eating worms but he smiles some as he is just as confused as Bralin had been, "What the? If this is Gargul's realm then something is quite odd, and why are Xenia and such here, I'm pretty sure I didn't see them die."
Florin notes that he hurts and frowns more as he moves, pretty sure if you were dead that you wouldn't be hurting anymore, "Well, pain is a good reminder that your not dead. Who do I owe for this little miracle?"
Xenia (AC24, 60/68HP) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 9:23:01 AM
"Yeah. I guess your right, Theo." The rogue disengages from her beau.
"So, what's this 'bout a parlay?" she asks the Wrangle Twins as she sets about putting together small plates of food for everyone who's made it out of the challenge tunnels. "I bet your waiting on everyone getting out here, huh?" she says, in partial answer to her own question. "So you won't have to be saying everything over and over again like I been doing, as folks come out of them doors."
"Hey, Florin," she greets the paladin as he *blips* in just like Bralin did. "Don't ask."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
60/68HP
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 2:16:26 PM
Theodore continues to assist the injured and unconscious the best that he can. Keeping those who can't help out of the way of those who can.
"If you can walk, go get something to eat and drink," he says to those coming out of the passages. Otherwise, he does as either Bralin or Marjery ask.
When Florin appears, Macaw bird-waddles over to the paladin. The raven gives the man an appraising eye. "Dead? Dead?" He pecks him on the leg and shakes his feathered head. "Not dead."
The bird then waddles back to his guard duty in front of those receiving ministrations.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min 1 round
Harley (AC 34; HPs 97/118) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 8:23:21 PM
Harley slows down once he sees a lot of people in the room. He does a quick head count and notices that Syr is missing.
Metamagic Rod Usage: Extend (1-3): 0/3; Extend (1-6): 2/3
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 d20+20=23 ; 3d6+7=13 ; d20+16=33 ; Wednesday June 25th, 2008 8:25:04 PM
Syr hits the frogman sharply once in the chest to disrupt any spell he may attempt. (Damage 13, thanks C). Positioning his body on top of his foe, he tries to cover the man and places a hand on the overwide mouth.. The elf reaches for the amulet as the key to getting out of the room. Not really concerned with hurting his foe, he concentrates on just getting the amulet.
(OOC: Cayzle, Feel free to correct me but Syr is able to pin the opponent and then make two disarm attempts at his BAB? The first failed with a 3, no save needed as Syr has no weapon. It's actually a 27 on the 2nd disarm attempt, not a 33)
Bralin (AC 27, 28/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 9:37:36 PM
Bralin turns to look at Harley, not having seen her before. The dwarf's black platemail is battered, and he is freely bleeding from several fresh wounds. However, he is not immediately concerned with his own health.
"Aye," he answers, but he points at Florin.
The dwarf turns back to a newly entered pilgrim, and casts a healing spell on the man.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] d8+5=9 ; Thursday June 26th, 2008 11:28:50 PM
Wynn heals himself [CMW =9 HP] and listens to Xenia's explanation. It's hard to make sense of what exactly is going on , but the bards previous trip to the tower has prepared him for the unexpected.
Jangle and Tangle (DM Cayzle) d8=1 ; Friday June 27th, 2008 12:36:19 PM
[OOC to Florin: My apologies for messing up the numbers on your combat somewhat. But even in the most favorable interpretation, it was not close enough to make a difference to the outcome.]
Last of combat: Syr neutralizes his foe with a monk's skill in armed combat. He rips the amulet/key away and leaves the caster unconscious, behind him on the ground. A few moments later (well, maybe a few more than a few, since there are still those Webs to push past),
While waiting for Syr, Xenia asks the two big Dwarfs about the delay. She guesses it is to keep from having to say the same thing over and over. Jangle smiles and says, "Heroic and full of common sense. You are a good one." Tangle scowls and adds, "We couldn't be bothered until the fights were over."
At this point Syr has won, but is struggling through Webs. Tangle hands a bag. The two Dwarfs take out big square frames of wood strung kind of like a harp but with beads on the strings. Instead of plucking or making music, they start shuttling the beads back and forth. After a moment, Jangle grins and claims that he is ahead.
Tangle frowns and says, "For now."
Several party members take the chance to heal themselves and others.
Syr opens the door and steps into the Throne Room. The doors to the combat corridors disappear. On closer examination, you see that the two thrones are black and white. Jangle's white throne (Jangle is the stouter dwarf, about 8 feet tall) has soft cushions. The taller, skinnier Tangle sits on a hard, angular, black throne.
There are also tables and chairs, and the tables are filled with good food of all kinds. Even worms for Theo's bird familiar.
Tangle waves his hand, and some of you start to glow faintly, like a faerie fire spell. Marjery, Manfrey, and four pilgrims are glowing, as are Theo, Xenia, Wynn, Syr, and Harley are glowing. Bralin, Florin, and three pilgrims are not.
At the same time, Jangle waves of curing energy spread out among you, restoring 21 hp to each person. He speaks, this time in a formal tone: "My friends, enjoy your food, and congratulate the winners of our little diversion. They have earned great praise! After the feast is over, we will grant audiences before you go on your way."
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Friday June 27th, 2008 1:17:36 PM
With everyone back on their feet, Theodore sighs. His focus is drawn to the table of food. As he moves to get some nourishment, Macaw alights on the wizard's head.
Theodore seems not to notice as he sidesteps down the table choosing morsels to eat. With full plate and a mug of water, he squats down to eat his meal.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 59 min (estimate)
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Friday June 27th, 2008 3:08:33 PM
"That's a'cause girls got sense," Xenia replies to the shorter fatter of the TJ Pair. She waves at Syr as he comes out the door. Not an eye is bat as the doors themselves disappear.
"So, um, winning is good. And so is praise. Praise is good too. But, I can't help but notice that you been exchanging more than that. Bags of clinky stuff, if you know what I mean. Sounds like gold."
"You think just maybe kinda sorta, we could have earned some of that gold too?" she wheedles. "I mean, whaddya need gold for here in this tower anyway, huh? 'Specially when you can make stuff appear just from the waving your hand."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Fly (45?/50r), Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Harley (AC 34; HPs 97/118) Friday June 27th, 2008 10:00:41 PM
Harley is back to full strength after the curing spell from one of the dwarves. He wanders over to the food table. He casually casts detect poison on some of the food. If it is ok he wil eat some.
Harley remains quiet, in the background until he gets his bearings on what is going on.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Friday June 27th, 2008 10:54:14 PM
Florin feels alittle better now that he is healed abit. With this he stands and will sheath his sword before speaking to the two odd dwarf looking people, "I should of taken a different approach to that battle and I think I owuld of came out the winner. Maybe some day I will get another shot and trying it." With this Florin moves to get something to eat, poking Macaw once, "Thanks for the peck too feather head." Florin then tries to give the bird's head one stroke before speaking to Theo, "Little guy can grow on you though."
Florin eats alittle and listens to everything currently going on before pulling the cloak of displacement from his backpack and putting it on, "Buy something and forget to use it. Have to remember to get some healing items after we get back to town. Hopefully we'll have collected abit of money by then."
Thinking Florin also pulls Syr to the side and speaks to him a moment, "I never got a chance to before things happened when I first caught back up with the group. Here is 1,000gps for the moment to put towards the construction company you and the others own. I might beable to give abit more once we get done with all of this." Florin will hand over 1,000gps for the time being.
(Scott: Please make note that Florin handed over the 1,000gps now to ya for that. I'm deducting it from my sheet and will be going onto the google page to edit it later, this way I don't forget it in the future.)
Bralin (AC 27, 63/121 hp, Resist Energy [elec]) 2d8+7=14 ; Saturday June 28th, 2008 11:16:24 AM
Bralin rises from tending one of the pilgrims as the healing energy cures the man's wounds.
The dwarf adds another healing spell to his own wounds. [CMW over Identify- 14 hp healed]
Tis apparent these "kings" will not speak until the feasting is over. But Bralin doesn't much feel like feasting. He folds his hands over his chest, and waits, staring coldly at the dwarfs on their thrones all the while.
Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (d) = Domain Spell 0 -Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Light, Read Magic, Guidance, Mending 1- Command, Comprehend Languages, Entropic Shield, Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, *Magic Stone (d) 2- Hold Person, Resist Energy (fire), Resist Energy (cold), *Resist Energy (electricity), Identify (d) 3 -- Dispel Magic, Magic Vestment, *Summon Monster III 4 -- *Freedom of Movement }
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Sunday June 29th, 2008 3:52:38 AM
Puzzled Syr watches the others before whispering to Florin, "I know I've been a bit busy, but who are these guys? Are they the ones that run this crazy tower?" He watches the figures on the throne carefully and also observes Xenia's non-hostile action towards them. With a furrowed brow, he walks to the table and begins nibbling.
Accepting Florin's gift, "It might be a while before we get back at this rate but thanks! That reminds me, we probably need to give Lang's share to the kids."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] d20+6=8 ; Sunday June 29th, 2008 11:48:40 PM
Wynn recognizes the now familair feeling of a healing spell as it washes over him. While thankful for the assistance, he remains wary of the two dwarves and their offerings. [Sense Motive=8 yuk!]
Rewards to the Victors! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 1st, 2008 12:18:17 AM
After the meal, the two large dwarves wave their hands. The feast disappears and everyone's chair moves into a semicircle facing the thrones. It is kind of like some invisible giant is pushing your chairs from behind.
"First, for those who are confused," says Jangle. "We are Jangle and Tangle. We are ... brothers ... I suppose is as good a word as any. Are we dreams of sleeping Boydos? Are we the strange mad divided mind of the demigod? Two of his faithful servants? Honestly, your guess is as good as ours!"
"But we do pass the days, sometimes, in games of chance and challenge. You all have been very entertaining. And we thank you."
Tangle mutters grumpily, "I'd be more thankful if you hadn't done so well against my minions."
Jangle ignores him. "And so we are inclined to offer the winners some small thanks." He takes a bag from his pocket. and hands out some presents (as soon as you touch a present, you know more about it.)
"Theo, we have seen that your bird friend likes to ride on your head. We thought this might keep you free of distraction." He gves Theo a grey hat with a very wide brim, something like this one. "It was made from the hide of a shadow dragon, and if your familiar is sitting on it, he will be able to see any creature hiding in the shadows." [OOC: magic, grants a +10 competence bonus on spot checks]
"Wynn, you are clearly a romantic at heart. Take this as a reminder of the power of love." It is a ruby carved into the shape of a valentine heart. [OOC: nonmagical]
"Harley, you like to play the Big Man. But remember that small and little things have their places too." He gives Harley a jeweled egg made of gold and gems. There is a lens at one end, and if you look inside, you see a tiny diorama of a lake in a forest. [OOC: nonmagical, but beyond the ability of any Woldian jeweler to make without magic.]
"Syr, you would have won your contest much more quickly had you been able to ignore those webs. Next time, you shall." He gives Syr a small ebony spider. [OOC: Magic, possessor ignores webs.]
"And dear Xenia, your bravery is what brought you to our attention! Here." He hands her a crowbar. [OOC: magic. if held in one hand, confers electrical resistance 10. If held with two hands, 20. If held in two hands and you are grounded, 30. It also draws all druidic called lightning bolts to you, and lightning bolts cast by mages start at the mage's hand and then travel to you. It is also a +1 shocking heavy mace.]
"Marjery, your spells were very effective ...
" -- WAIT!" the priestess shouts. "We are here for more than just to entertain you and go! We came here to offer our service to Boydos!"
Jangle pauses, and Tangle speaks. "Is that true for all? Tell us, each of you, why you have come here."
"Why you THINK you have come here," interjects Jangle.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Tuesday July 1st, 2008 1:59:38 AM
"You mean to tell me these pilgrims came here seeking guidance and you put them through a trial by fire? If I was them, I'd be having second thoughts. And also... Entertainment? What are we bards?" Out of the side of his mouth he whispers, "No offense Wynn."
Syr steps forward and speaks to the throned figures in a more formal tone, "As to what we are doing here, I could say that I wanted to safely escort these pilgrims but truly, it was my own curiosity that motivated me to come. Wynn mentioned a few tales from his youth of the tower and I figured it was now or never. Granted, we do need to get back to the city to check on a few things but the deteor is interesting so far. I can say that while I revere Domi, I hold no grudge against Boydos."
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Tuesday July 1st, 2008 9:50:30 AM
"Well, yeah ... " Xenia thwaps the bar, a light experimental thwap, into the palm of her hand. Miniature white bright arcs of electricity crackle in a tiny miniature electric sort of way. Very cute. Especially in light of the fact that their little painful electric ways are unable to penetrate the lingering magic of Xenia's previously cast scroll.
"It's like Syr said. After a while you get a sense for when something is mostly safe, and when it's mostly not. Even though we said we'd only escort these ex-Ga'alies to the tower, it just didn't seem right to leave 'em there. It's just wasn't right. You know?"
*twap*crackle* *twap*crackle* *twap*crackle*pop*
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Tuesday July 1st, 2008 9:55:30 AM
At Florin's poke, Macaw puffs out his feathers in indignation and gives the paladin a dirty look. The raven avoids Florin's follow-up pet by flapping off somewhere else.
Theodore watches the bird go and turns back to Florin. "Sorry. He's a little tender, sometimes. Don't take it personal. I've known him for a few years now and he's usually this way. Yeah, I wouldn't say he grows on you, unless your alluding to like a wart or a blister. Then I would agree."
The thin wizard takes the hat from the giant dwarves. He bows, "Thank you." After a moment of inspection, he places the cowboy hat on his head. "How do I look?" he asks Florin.
Seeing something taking the place of his beloved perch, Macaw swoops in to land on the hat. He circles the top, scrutinizing the accessory. Finally, he tucks his legs beneath him and rests.
"I guess he likes it." Theodore smiles.
Theodore agrees with Syr's reasoning for venturing into Boydos' Tower. "Yes, I wanted to make sure these folks got to the Tower, safely. I was also interested to see what was inside."
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 58 min (estimate)
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Tuesday July 1st, 2008 10:45:48 PM
Florin was about to reply to Syr's question when the two dwarf's speak finally again and Florin figures this is enough to answer Syr's question.
Looking to Theo, Florin smiles and nods, "You look ok and I do not mind your little friend. Maybe I can get some treats later that he'll like."
Florin looks to Macaw on Theo's head before looking to the dwarves now and thinks before speaking when it's his turn, "I didn't have alot of choice in the beginning, some strange dreams or atleast they seemed like dreams and when I wokeup, here I was. Since my friends were here I figured I would join back up with them and help these fellows. Like my friend Syr there, I'm a faithful follower of Domi and offered my protection to these people here." Florin motions to the others that aren't members of the Shields.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Tuesday July 1st, 2008 11:59:10 PM
The bard claims his prize and pockets the gem after examining it carefully. "Thank you. I shall ensure it's safe keeping" he nods at the two dwarves.
When asked of his purpose in the tower, he explains. "I am here to ensure the safety of the young lad who has chosen to follow these pilgrims. He hopes to become a hero and take on great adventures, but he is still young and I am concerned that he does not understand the perils that may await him within the tower. Marjery believes that by bringing him before Boydos, a great gift will be bestowed upon them. I know of no such prophecy, and so I accompany them in case they may have need of me."
To each his own reason ... and reward (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 3:04:27 AM
Syr seems outraged: "You mean to tell me these pilgrims came here seeking guidance and you put them through a trial by fire? If I was them, I'd be having second thoughts. And also... Entertainment? What are we bards?"
Jangle looks abashed and defensive. "Well, it's not like you really exist. You're just dreams of Boydos. And besides, we didn't hurt anybody."
Tangle grins. "My brother is kind-hearted but deluded." -- "No I'm not!" Jangle mutters -- "and we do seldom get visitors. So what if you helped break the tedium of our days. We didn't ask you to enter our home."
Everyone gives a reason for being here ...
Manfrey says that he wants to be a hero, and to have adventures. Marjery wants to find a new god. Four of the seven pilgrims mostly echo her. A fifth says he is just following Marjery, and a sixth is just following one of the other pilgrims. The last says that since Ga'al died, he just wants to die too, and coming here seems like an interesting way to do it.
The giant dwarves listen, and then Tangle laughs. "You came to watch over a lad," he says to Wynn. "You arrived in a dream, somehow," he says to Florin. "You were curious," he says to Theo. "You want to protect innocents. You want a new god. You want to follow your heart. You want to be a hero." he points to each in turn.
"Each to his own reason! I love it! A more chaotic group we have seldom seen. You are well met here in Boydos!"
"Well, I think I know well the reward for those of you who seek a new god. Boydos would be happy to welcome you himself, but since he is currently off in dreamland, we can do the honors. Everybody who wants to honor Boydos, raise your hand now!"
He waits until this is very clear. Then both dwarves raise their hands too, and a long arc of chain lightning jumps from Jangle to Manfrey to Marjery to each pilgrim -- then to any PCs with hands held up? -- and then back to Tangle. The bolt leaps from outstretched hand to hand to hand.
All the mortals -- ie, all but Jangle and Tangle -- fall down dazed. A moment later they revive, and each has a mark on his or her palm. Every mark is different.
"And we do admire moxie in a boy," says Jangle. "Here, Manfrey. This is for you." He takes a ring from his bag and gives it to the boy.
Did any PC raise a hand to honor Boydos?
"Okay!" says Tangle. "That's just about enough excitement for today. Any last questions before we send you on your way to the wide world beyond the Tower?" He says this as a little dig at his brother, who does not seem to think that you all even came from outside the Tower.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 9:53:17 AM
"No clinkers?" The rogue puts on a disappointed face. When she looks again, there is no longer any sign of the bags of gold.
"Can you send us back to Floating City?" she asks, moving along a different track now that the gold is gone. "You know where Floating City is, right?"
"Hey, Wynn," sidling up to Wynn, she rubs up against his arm, "can I see the sparklie?"
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
OoC: No hand up for this girl. Boydos is a weerdo.
Active Effects: Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge, see invisibility) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 10:14:06 AM
"Bugs?" Macaw perks up at Florin's mention of potential treats. "Worms?" The raven tilts his head to give the paladin a stern one-eyed stare. Seeing that no desired morsels are immediately forthcoming, Macaw turns his tail feathers to the man and settle down again on his new pad.
Theodore declines the raising of his hand. Not out of disrespect, but more due to a lack of spirituality.
He is ready to leave, too, and the Floating City sounds as good a place as any.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 55 min (estimate)
Bralin (Sub/Al) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 11:09:01 AM
"I've a group waiting outside the tower," Bralin says. To the dwarf this fully suffices to explain his intents.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 11:37:50 AM
Syr gets up slowly and looks down at his palm, relieved that it bears no mark. Upon Xenia's question the elf chimes in, "Floating City would be most helpful. I certainly do not look forward to the long walk or even ride home."
Moving over to paladin, "Hey Florin, you should see the new place. It's not too bad, although it doesn't have that cool painting we had in the last one. It is a bit bigger though. Ajax still won't have a proper stable."
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:46:59 PM
Florin looks to the two dwarf gods he guesses and shakes his head some as they seem weird, Domi seems to him alot less chaotic. He like most others from the looks didn't raise his hand either.
He voices his comment too, "Where my friends here go I plan to go also. Not to mention Ivy is probably worried to death."
Florin looks to Syr and smiles at his comment, "I can't wait to see it my friend. Have to see if Ivy would like to come also and I'm sure Jella would love to see you again too." Florin smiles and thinks before speaking to Syr, "If I end up staying out there maybe I can see about haveing a couple add ons? You know, stable of course but I do tinker with armor and silver smithing so a small forge would be good. Have to look into investing and all." Florin doesn't jump to quickly on this since he has only just rejoined the group once again, he doesn't want to sound like he is moving in on them so fast, not to mention there was Ivy and Jella to consider.
Florin looks towards the two large dwarves and thinks before speaking to them, "I like to keep up on the various gods, specially those who may be friendly to Domi. Also I have a daughter who has yet to choose her path in life. Does this Boydos have some kind of holy book or such? Something stateing his beliefs? If so I would like one to have a look at." Florin leaves this as that before looking to the others and is also ready to go.
Looking towards Theo he grins and speaks to him, "Ahh, tell your friend Theo that once we get back I will see about hunting up some goodies for him, till then though he has to be patient." Florin figures why not try to get on the bird's good side, he seemed harmless enough.
Parting gamble? And Good-byes (DM Cayzle) Thursday July 3rd, 2008 1:25:39 PM
The two giant dwarves grin when Xenia asks for gold. Tangle holds up a large jingling bag. "Would you like to give back your Lightning Rod and take this bag and its contents instead? This bag holds at least 10,000 gold pieces. Or would you like to give up both for what's behind that door?" Xenia sees that a door has appeared on one wall.
Jangle asks, "Or would you like to make a wager? Roll equal or higher than me on this die [a d12] and you get the bag. Lose, and you lose the bag and the Lightning Rod!"
Jangle and Tangle have their bead-frames out, and if you make a Sense Motive check vs DC12, then Highlight to display spoiler: {you suspect they are already wagering among themselves on what Xenia will do.}
Theo is watchful and ready. Bralin seems stoic about joining those still outside the Tower. Syr is already thinking about home. Florin exchanges a few words with him on the subject.
The paladin has a thought, and asks if Boydos has a holy book or other such work. Jangle looks surprised, and then concentrates. A small book -- of free verse, as it turns out -- appears in his hand. He gives it to Florin. "My only request is that you lend or give it freely to any you meet who might find it interesting."
Marjery has a quiet word with Manfrey, and the two come over. "I don't think we want to leave, at least not yet, so this is goodby. You had no reason to love us, and yet you risked your lives for us. Thank you, friends."
Manfrey blushes, and looks at his feet. "You guys are great!" he adds, reaching out to shake Wynn's hand.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Thursday July 3rd, 2008 7:12:54 PM
Florin takes the book from the giant dwarf and nods, "I promise. Since Boydos and his friends have not been a threat to Domi and all I have no reason to do otherwise. After I offer the book to Jella to read and I myself have looked it over, I will see that the book is given to someone in the Float so Boydos word might be seen. Of course thats if that sounds reasonable to you."
Florin glances towards the doors that appeared and is curious but since the words were spoke to Xenia by the giant dwarves, he says nothing about the doors. He himself did loose his fight after all.
Looking to Marjery, Florin bows to the lady and speaks to her kindly, "I'm sorry I couldn't be of any more help to you in your mission here. I guess if I could of caught up sooner. You plan to serve Boydos but do not get offended as I wish Domi watch over you as well."
Florin turns to Manfrey next and looks to the young man before speaking, thinking over things abit, "Well, a fine hero you will become I think. May I ask if you have a decent dagger with you?" If Manfrey doesn't have one already Florin pulls the masterwork dagger and the blacksheath from his boot and holds it out to the young man, "A good dagger can save a man's life. A gift to you and I hope it helps you."
Florin figures the dagger will be easily replaced so new big deal and the young man could use it more then he.
The dark rogue fixes the TJ Twins with a narrow-eyed stare, and finds ... That you can see less than you usually can when you're looking through a narrow-eyed stare. Possessively, she hugs the cold iron bar to herself, shielding it from any and all snatchers of magic bars.
"You know, I heard that Waard says that to court with risk is to rise close to godhood. Or sump'in like that. But sometimes Waard can be as big a nut bag as you guys. This here bar ain't just a thingie of magic. It's a trophy. It says, I went into the weerdo tower and I came out with a magic bar."
"So I'm keeping it."
"You sure, you wanna stay here, Manny?" she asks. "Your brother and sister are on the plantation out Plateau City way. I mean, that's an awful long ways away. You might not ever see them again."
"You might wanna think twice 'bout passing that book 'round, Florin," she whispers "It gets around to too many people we might have all these weerdos standing on their heads and spouting blahblahblah, you know? Like them dwarves. All 'round Floating City"
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Bralin (Sub/Al) Thursday July 3rd, 2008 11:35:20 PM
"Ye'll be missed in Jarlwolf, Florin. The valley's a wilder place with the Swords of Light now scattered to the four winds."
"Stones protect you and yer bride in Floating City. Stones protect you all."
"And don't let yer father bully you, Florin." The dwarf gives an unaccustomed wink. "Yer the master of yer own house now."
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Friday July 4th, 2008 3:30:06 AM
Syr walks over to Bralin and shakes his hand. "You know you always have a home at the Float if you need it."
The elf looks over at the dwarves, "Xenia made her choice, now if you will kindly show us the way out of here?"
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 16 (mage armor, see invisibility) Friday July 4th, 2008 1:30:29 PM
Theodore is relieved that the group's latest adventure is coming to an end. He says his goodbyes to the Boydosians. He also gives Bralin a handshake.
"I haven't known you for long, but I already feel like we're friends," he says with a wide smile. "I hate to see you go, but wish you the best."
Macaw dozes atop his new cowboy hat perch.
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent Mage Armor: 10 hours 50 min (estimate)
Farewell to the Tower (DM Cayzle) Saturday July 5th, 2008 9:07:43 AM
Manfrey takes the dagger and thanks Florin.
Xenia chooses to keep her Lightning Rod.
The party says goodbye to Bralin. The dwarves wave their hands, you blink -- and you are all standing outside the Tower again.
The dwarves who guard the Tower -- now having abandoned the electricity theme, evidently -- are fully dressed from head to toes in brightly dyed silk. They are holding copper picks and steel axes. Their garb includes hat, gloves, shirts, leggings, the works. The Tower is now a square stone ediface made of different blocks of rock. Obsidian, schist, basalt, and others only a sage of the earth (or maybe a dwarf) would know. It is quite the dwrf fortress. There are many cats wandering around, some following the dwarves.
"I need a drink!" says a dwarf.
Another falls down and sleeps on the ground, after complaining about the lack of a bed. Yet another is crying on the shoulder of a friend. Others seem ecstatic.
A battle-hardened female adventurer and two fellows walk up. "Bralin! Lem's Lugnuts! Where have you been! We've been going crazy hanging out with these wacky dwarves!"
[OOC: Friends, please add 6,500 xp base to your sheets (Florin, half that). Please send me any nominations you might have for hero or RP award consideration -- Carl, you too please! Sorry the Dwarves could not send you home ... per Woldian rules on Immortal Powers, Boydos cannot reach beyond his own area.]
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Sunday July 6th, 2008 6:42:00 PM
Wynn returns Manfrey's gesture and shakes the lad's hand. "You handled yourself well back there Manfrey. You'll make a fine hero and adventurer once youv'e gained some more experience. I wish you well, and hope we might meet again. I'd be happy to write a song about your exploits."
With his final farewells to Manfrey and Marjery, and an admonition to be true of heart and kind of spirit, Wynn is transported from the tower. He is relieved to be outside the strange world of Boydos. Once outside he shows the rubie to Xenia. "How much do you think it's worth?" he asks her.
The dark rogue holds the gem up to the light. She whips out a large round convex lens mounted onto a black horn handle and examines the heart shaped ruby through it.
"Dunno, Wynn. Looks like a ruby o' some kind. If that's what it is, then you're looking from a hundred to five thousand gold clinkers." (Appraise 8)
"Sure is pretty, though," and she favors Wynn with a big coquettish smile.
Nothing like sparklies to take a girls mind off of a very long impending walk.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Resist Energy-Electricity/20 (70m)
Expended: Winged Boots 1/3, Scroll of Resist Energy CL7
Harley (AC 34; HPs 118/118) Sunday July 6th, 2008 10:38:48 PM
"Thank you for the jeweled egg made of gold and gems. The craftsmanship looks quite remarkable. I am a follower of the Wold Gods and cannot have allegiance to Boydos."
Harley stows the jeweled egg carefuly so that it wil not break during his travels. He eyes the new tower and the new dwarves. Or maybe the same dwarves, but different clothing.
"Where to now? Back to the plantation to check on Belkior and Angus?"
OOC - character sheet to be updated shortly.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Monday July 7th, 2008 12:03:09 AM
(OOC:Will work on CS shortly, debating on what class to level up, paladin or undead hunter.)
Florin looks to the others and then at his surroundings before shrugging some. He wasn't going to complain, he was out of the tower and maybe the group would find something interesting on the way back to the Float. He was a undead hunter after all and anything of that nature caught his attention.
Florin looks to Bralin and pats the dwarf's shoulder, "I must admit I'll miss you my friend. You watch your back and I'm sure we'll meet again eventually."
Looking to the others and stretches some, still feeling the sting from the blue electro crab battle, "If we have to move on I would suggest we see about getting anyone still injured healed up or atleast resting." Florin shrugs as it wasn't his decision though, he left the matter to the group and whoever the current leader would happen to be. He knew Angus was the leader but since he isn't here he wasn't sure who so Florin was just voicing his opinion.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Monday July 7th, 2008 9:30:41 AM
The elf looks around, recognizes his surroundings, and sighs, "It looks like we do have that long walk home after all." He stands there for a moment watching the dwarves until the female adventurer wanders up. Introducing himself with a handshake, "You must be one of Bralin's new mates.You've doen a good job taking car of him." Syr grins at the Bralin on that pronouncement, "Oh! can you point the direction to Platueau City and tells how many days away we are? Any shortcuts would be much appreciated."
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 16 (mage armor, see invisibility) Monday July 7th, 2008 10:33:36 AM
Theodore smiles once they are back outside. "It's good to be under the sky again, huh?"
Macaw seems to agree. The raven quickly leaps into the air to survey the surrounding landscape.
"I can conjure us all up some mounts tomorrow morning," Theodore says, adjusting his new hat. "I agree with Florin that we could use a rest. Preferably a small distance from this tower." He says the last in a soft voice.
Which way next? (DM Cayzle) Monday July 7th, 2008 7:51:09 PM
Outside, although the Tower is different, the terrain is the same. This is Boydos's Tower, changed again.
Wynn shows off his jewelry. Xenia suspects the value of the bard's ruby heart is toward the high end of her rough appraisal. Maybe more.
Harley wonders about where to go next.
Florin says goodbye to Bralin, and he wonders who will be the party leader. The paladin helps get everyone back up to full health. Theo agrees that a rest is the right idea.
Syr introduces himself to the adventurer waiting for Bralin. Her name is Sharoll, and she has a breastplate and a nasty scar across her nose. She leaves off rubbing it long enough to offer a hand. "Meetcha," she says, grinning. Her grip is very strong.
"Plateau City, hey? Well, you'll have to walk through the Culverwood or the Scab one way or t'other. You're an elf? Crow flies over the Culverwood from here. Me, not wanting to die, I'd take the Spice Trail south, Pullman's Crossing and the Tears, then to Aisildur if you dare, or Dirt City if you dare, an then a ship to South Harbor. Long ways, though."
[OOC: This map may help show you what she means. You are currently in the Cinnamon Valley.]
"But what, you high-power folks can't use magic to get there?" she asks, boldly.
[OOC: Thanks to Shegger for PC sheet and award nominations. More, please!]
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 Monday July 7th, 2008 11:07:27 PM
(OOC:Considering I got in towards the tail end of things I feel abit dumb about voting for reewards for anyone. I mean, looking over the stuff isn't quite like having actually been there to experience it as Florin. Towards the end though there was some good rp between most of the char's I think.)
Florin still votes to have a rest so everyone is in better shape to travel. Florin hopes no one is taking his votes for trying to step back into the leader position since he doesn't want to go there again, not inless the group has changed more from when he was last in that position.
Florin smiles at the comments of Syr though towards the lady introduces herself and shakes his head. Florin looks around and wonders where to rest and such, "I like your idea of alittle ways from this tower though, just incase. Till I look over this book from Boydos alittle I still don't know much about him."
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Tuesday July 8th, 2008 12:12:41 AM
Syr groans when he hears the woman's long and taxing trek home. He shakes his head sadly, "Nope, no magic form me just my own two feet."
He looks over at Florin, "Boydos? Be careful my friend, based on what we just saw, you probably have to read the book from right to left and back to front."
Looking around at the others he comments, "Let's get away from here and then get some rest. I'm all for pushing on but we can be smart about it. Besides, if we take the direct route, I'm sure we can save days of travel time." He winks at Sharoll after the last comment.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Tuesday July 8th, 2008 7:38:55 AM
Wynn slips the ruby into his pouch and then spends a moment considering their options for travel. "As much as I feel at home in the Culverwood" he begins, "I've no great love of the sea. The way east, through the Windbourne Hills and the Scab is much shorter, although fraught with it's own perils. With magic steeds we might make good time of it"
The bard hopes his council is taken, for his last venture from Izen to Plateau City was marked by several days adrift in the flotsam of his own ship. Several very hard days where he watched his crewmen sink below the waves one at a time.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Tuesday July 8th, 2008 9:27:43 AM
"If only it weren't too far to trek back to Merrydale," the rogue grumbles. "Then at least we could have a bath! But now we know why no one settles around this weerdo place. Could make you crazy."
"Anyone see a nice little stream or sump'in? You know, when we came in? Maybe we could camp there for the night."
"And why don't we just 'Port home, huh? I mean, Harley, you 'ported to Plateau City with Angus, Belkie and them two kids, right? I mean, we should tell Cattie and Bab what happened to their brother, shouldn't we? Though he didn't seem to care much 'bout them in the end there, did he?" Her slim shoulders shrug.
"'Sides, that's where Belkie and Angus are. Right?"
Theodore & Macaw HP 42 AC 16 (mage armor, see invisibility) d20+5=14 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 9:38:12 AM
When the option of sea travel is brought up, Theodore smiles. "I remember that we used to have a magical boat when I lived in Dirt City. It was pretty crazy. It could change from a boat, to a ship, to a large raft. We never did find the figurehead to it, though." He stops talking and stares at the ground, lost in nostalgia.
After a few moments of wistfulness, the wizard trains his attention from the ground to the sky, searching for something. Spotting Macaw, he furrows his brow, obviously attempting to communicate with the bird.
His face turns uglier as he seems to be concentrating even more ferociously. Of a sudden, he throws his hands in the air, "Oh, come on, Macaw! Don't be such a stinker all the time!"
The raven continues to circle before plummeting from the air like a striking hawk...directly at Theodore.
The wizard's eyes grow large and he turns to run from the feathery, black missile. Unfortunately, he steps on the hem of his pants and tumbles to the ground in a heap. Macaw pulls up and lands gracefully next to his collapsed master. He preens under his wings as if nothing were amiss.
Theodore props himself up on his elbows to give the bird a nasty look. "Would you be so kind as to check for a spot we might camp for the night? Please."
The bird doesn't even acknowledge the wizard before leaping back into the air to search for a good resting place. (Macaw spot 14 to find a good spot)
Harley (AC 34; HPs 118/118) Tuesday July 8th, 2008 1:00:38 PM
"I can teleport us back to the plantation. It will take a few days as I can only get 1 spell per day. We can start tomorrow morning if you want."
Harley moves out with the group as they try to find a campsite.
The Fast Way Home (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 9th, 2008 2:47:20 PM
The party considers the looong trip home.
Florin thinks resting the night -- a bit away from the tower -- would be good.
Syr is up for a rest, and for the "direct" way home ... through the Culverwood.
Wynn thinks about magic steeds and a ride through the Windbourne Hills.
Theo helps look for a place to rest. His sea memories seem sweeter than Wynn's.
Xenia is interested in a rest for the night, and asks Harley if he could not teleport the party.
Harley says he can do it, though it might take a day or three.
The group finds a pleasant clearing with a brook nearby to camp in. The next morning, Harley is ready to start teleporting. Where are you going? How many trips will Harley require, exactly? and are there some rolls needed to see if the Teleportion goes awry?
Once you get where you are going, what do you intend?
Harley (AC 34; HPs 118/118) d100=89 ; d100=24 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 6:55:48 PM
"I can teleport 3 people with me each day. So after 2 days there will be 7 people teleported. How many are going to the plantation? I think with Belkior and Angus gone, it should only take two days. As I have teleported there before and was able to study the are carefuly, my chance for error will be quite small."
Teleport checks 89 & 24 - success!
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Wednesday July 9th, 2008 9:32:10 PM
After laying out bedrolls with Wynn, the girl rogue pulls off her boots and pads off down the bank of the small shallow brook. From behind the screen of light greenery come the sounds of splashes, the silver tinkling of water, and "... ook ... cold ... cold ... ooooo cold ..."
Minutes float by.
Xenia returns dressed in nothing but a light red half sleeved shift, her slim dark legs showing from beneath. Across the front of the shirt, in bold black letters, deformed only by the rise of her small breasts, reads the legend, "What do you mean, the dragon wakes up?"
Her cheeks dimple in a satisfied smile.
"Freshing," is all she says.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"All set here," she chimes in the next morning. "I guess maybe we should oughta take over the kids for a while. Give Kay and Buckle some time off. I mean, before heading back to the Float."
"You gotta see the new place. We haven't even had time to decorate it yet. Plenty of room. Specially ... " Xenia's face falls. " ... I mean ... with Lang gone and all."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Wednesday July 9th, 2008 11:02:10 PM
Wynn spends the night with Xenia and awakes refreshed. He offers to stay behind while the the first group teleport with Harley. "An extra day back in Cinnamon Valley won't be a hardship" he offers. With that he takes out the battered journal from his pack and begins recording his recollections of the last several days.
Florin Jadenth AC:23 HP:21/111 d20+6=9 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 11:33:30 PM
Before trying to get some sleep Florin tries to use his heal skill to increase his healing over the night but his concentration seems to be else where.
Other then this he will strip off his armor to get some sleep, wearing only the blue tunic and pants he normally wears under the armor. He also rolling out his bedroll.
In the morning Florin will also go to wash in the stream, first making sure that no one else is using it before him. After he is done he will dry off and get dressed in one of his spare sets of clothes before coming back to meet back up with the rest of the group.
Hearing the others speak of the releporting an how long it will take to get everyone to where they are heading, Florin nods, "I don't mind waiting abit longer if others would like to go first. Gives me time to see Bralin abit longer and such so I don't mind."
Harley 2d8+11=19 ; 2d8+11=20 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 1:31:31 AM
2nd post - forgot to do my cure spell!
Harley will spontaneously cast Cure Moderate Wounds twice on Florin before going to bed for the night (replace silence & align weapon).
He gets back 19 & 20 hit points.
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 d8+3=11 ; d8+3=6 ; d8+3=8 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 1:54:32 AM
Syr displays a big grin when Harley offers the group a shortcut, "Finally! A spellcaster with more use than just healing around here."
He looks over at Florin and his injuries and immediately regrets his words. When Florin offers to stay behind the elf comes up to him, "I'm still figuring out this Domi thing from time to time but I think he might grant me the skills to heal you? I'm not too sure as I've never tried it on someone else..." The elf looks a bit nervous and lays a hand on Florin's wound while fingering something beneath his (Cure Light Wounds 11,6,8).
As the healing begins to take effect, the Syr does a little bounce before resuming the healing, obviously please with the results. When complete, he looks at Florin, "Sorry, that's all I can do. However, why don't you, Theo, and me go back the 1st day? I know you want to visit with Bralin but we need to get you to see Belkior. Your health must come first. I'm sure the two love birds won't mind some quiet time." The elf smiles at Xenia and Wynn fondly while looking at them."
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) d100=32 ; d100=12 ; d100=81 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 10:36:47 AM
"I'll go back with you, Harley," Theodore says. "I can also use that spell twice a day. So, if you take me tomorrow morning, I can study the area a bit and then come back the same day so that we should be able to get everyone there in just one day."
Theodore also uses the brook to clean up. His hair is sopping as he slips into his bedroll and quickly falls asleep. Macaw finds a nice branch to roost in for the night.
Next morning, Theodore goes along with Harley to the orphanage. After spending a few hours surveying the area to get a better feel for it, he teleports back to the camp.
I beseech the powers to bend time and space Port my tangible form from here to this place
(32, made it)
With only Xenia and Wynn left to come over, Theodore should have no problem. "Are you guys ready? Then take a hold of my hands. Here we go."
I beseech the powers to bend time and space Port my tangible form from here to this place
(12, made it. Disregard the 81)
Spells Active: See Invisibility: Permanent
(OOC - Daily spells up on my online sheet, Cayzle.)
Back to the Plateau (DM Cayzle) Friday July 11th, 2008 7:23:25 AM
There's no question that magic is much faster than walking! The next day, Harley moves half the party -- Syr, Theo, Florin, say. That day, Theo studies the area. Later in the day, he returns to the Tower, and then comes back with Wynn and Xenia.
Final farewells are said to Bralin, and maybe to the dwarves and the adventurers with Bralin.
So by the end of the next day, we see the party reunited at the Orphanage. For the first time in what seems like forever, Syr, Wynn, Florin, Theo, Xenia, Harley, Angus, and Belkior are all together.
Belkior and Angus have a tale to tell. Seems a pair of young Taurs were given into the Orphanage's keeping when it was in the Float. A ghost of a Taur came to check up on the cubs. Belkior and Angus found the taur kids still in the Float with three Taur guardians. As soon as the ghost found out that the Taurs were in the Float, it left.
The two still feel that they should stay here for a while, though, just to make sure that things stay calm and safe.
Here, close enough to the amenities of Plateau City, you all feel safe and at rest for the first time in a while. Maybe now is a chance for a breather? A little R&R before heading back to the Float? OOC: Feel free to visit the Catacombs, craft items, train, and relax.
Harley Friday July 11th, 2008 9:56:49 AM
OOC - Cayzle should I get the jeweled egg appraised in the catacombs or role play it here?
OOC - Is there any magic/treasure that needs to be divvied up?
Theodore & Macaw (see invisibility) Friday July 11th, 2008 11:47:17 AM
Back at the orphanage, Theodore asks for a tour of the grounds. He seems to get along well with the children. Macaw, on the other hand, disapproves of any unnecessary touching or petting. He spends most of the time flying about looking for dead things or dropping twigs on unsuspecting targets.
When he has the time, Theodore retreats to a quieter place where he infuses himself with new abilities.
I command this magic stitched upon my soul Forever and ever, whatever the toll
Give me sight of the invisible world So that I may see true power unfurled
He opens his eyes and they now glow a soft blue. (Cast Permanency and Arcane Sight. Gives up 1,500xp.)
I command this magic stitched upon my soul Forever and ever, whatever the toll
Understanding, the first step to friendship Words are the currency from my tongue's tip
As he speaks, he offers a small clay model of a ziggurat before him. The model shatters when the spell is completed. (Cast Permanency and Tongues. Gave up 1,500xp.)
The next day, he again sets aside time for his spells.
I command this magic stitched upon my soul Forever and ever, whatever the toll
The lowest Goblin or highest Dragon I now understand every jargon
Theodore sprinkles a mixture of black and white into the wind. (Cast Permanency and Comprehend Languages. Gave up 500xp.)
I command this magic stitched upon my soul Forever and ever, whatever the toll
I summon the strength to peel back the gloom Show me the darkest corners of this room
He blows a puff of something orange into the air. (Cast Permanency and Darkvision. Gave up 1,000xp for a total of 4,500xp. Updated on sheet.)
All of this takes two days, during which Theodore feels drained and sleeps often.
OOC (DM Cayzle) Friday July 11th, 2008 5:13:29 PM
If you want to do anything with the items you got in the Tower, please do it here, NOT on the Catacombs board.
Aside from the items from the Tower, I think that's it? Correct me if I am wrong.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Friday July 11th, 2008 8:21:06 PM
Wynn spends a few days refamiliarizing himself with the grounds of the plantation as well as with the children who stay there. He regales the older children with the exploits of the Shields, always careful to focus on the bravery and guile of the others. He tells them of Manfrey, the boy so eager to become a hero, and how he overcame the dire-rat , but also how concerned he was that the boy be given the time to train and grow with experience.
When given the opportunity, he rides to Plateau City and visits a jeweler to have the ruby appraised, and then set into a golden broach that can be used to fasten a cloak. The setting he selects is oval, with golden leaves that encircle a ring of small amethysts, within which the heart shaped ruby is set.
Whilst there he visits the catacombs as well and makes a few purchases.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Saturday July 12th, 2008 9:16:56 AM
"This is wood from Cinnamon Valley." Xenia places her hands upon the large branch that she had cut from a nearby tree before teleporting to the plantation outside Plateau City. "I'm gonna make it into a bow. In honor of Lang. You never met him," she explains to Catrina and Bab. "He was a member of our group until just recent. He got killed down by an evil priest of Ga'al just a week or so before we come on you guys."
"We buried him alone, way out in the middle of no place. 'Cept for his dog. Sunshine wouldn't leave. Poor pup. Someone's gotta do a memorial for Lang, you see. So I'm making this bow. 'Cause he was a ranger of the woods."
"Heroing can be dangerous stuff. I don't know if your brother's quite got the feel for that yet. Here, I mean, you know?" The rogue places a finger upon her heart. "There's an excitement part of it too, and I think Mannie's got himself all caught up in that right now. It's not like he doesn't care about you. He knows where you are. Heroes roam, you know. I bet he'll probs make his way out to Plateau City to meet up with you. Someday. It's 'cause real heroes care, you know. You'll see him. And he'll be a real hero then."
"Hey. Did you wanna go in to Plateau City with me and Wynn? I gotta buy some tools if I wanna start making this bow. Whaddya say?"
Florin Jadenth Sunday July 13th, 2008 7:50:09 PM
(Went ahead and took the AC and HP's off for now since I figure we'll get enough time to rest and heal fully. Not to mention the help Florin got from his friends."
Florin thanks Syr and Harley for the healing and smiles to Syr as Syr is happy to find out more about his own abilities, "Congradz Syr, looks alot like my own lay of hands to be honest, it can be a life saving gift to be sure."
At the plantation, Florin looks around the place curiously for awhile. Seeing if Syr or anyone else would like to give him the tour. As he goes along with whoever is willing he speaks, "So this is your new base of operations? It is quite large for sure. Alot bigger then the apartment in the Float."
Thinking of Jella and Ivy, Florin stops dead in his tracks and frowns some, "Shoot I bet they are worried sick. I should see about returning to the Float if possible, atleast long enough to get them here. Thats if the group has no problems with Jella and Ivy being here also." Florin ponders his choices at this moment and snaps his fingers, "Has any of our teleporting members been to the Float? If so then I could send a letter with the person so he can teleport Ivy and Jella back with him. Would be much easier."
If having Jella and Ivy teleported to the area is a viable alternative then Florin will get a paper and pen and begin writing a letter for Ivy. After he gets done he will see if someone has a candle he can borrow for just a moment and will drip wax on the back and seal it with the crest on his family ring, "There we are. I believe both should be staying with my parents at the moment on the noble section of the Float. If this letter is given to Ivy then I'm sure she'll come along with whoever is willing to get her. Also I'm sure my parents can't arrange for any of Ivy and Jella's things to be sent here. They should only pack what is needed." Florin smiles, thinking whoever goes to get Ivy is going to have fun with that, Ivy will probably want to pack up everything but she should be atleast partly reasonable on packing none the less.
With this done Florin moves over to Syr and speaks to him, "I think I will hold on to the little money I have left still to invest in some healing items. However, on our next amount of loot we are able to pickup I will invest more into the buisness. I figure I still have some catchingup to do on that."
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) 2nd Post Monday July 14th, 2008 9:24:25 AM
"So we're standing here and looking over at the wall, and we see this just one shriveled body on the road up ahead. It's lying there. Just lying there."
"That was our first sight coming up on the plantation. It was this poor girl. We buried her over there. Belkie consecrated the ground."
"Huh? Base of operations?" Xenia pauses in her tour to answer Florin's question. "Nah. This is where the orphans live, Florin. Our new place is back at the Float. On Merchant Level. Wait'll you see it. Lots of space. It's really two big plots connected by a gate."
"Anywho. That's the big hole where a bunch of ghouls and ghasts came up and ... "
A Little R&R (DM Cayzle) Monday July 14th, 2008 1:28:19 PM
As the Crimson Shields settle in to a bit of a rest, they come to understand that they spend about a week in the Tower, though only a day or two seemed to pass therein.
Theo trains and prepares new magic ... and as new permanent spells settle into his very being, he gains abilities unknown to common man.
Wynn visits a jeweler in Plateau City, and after a short examination declares the cut stone to be worth 10,000 gold, roughly. With the right buyer, maybe more. He is willing to give the 10 large ones immediately. How much would Wynn like to spend on the setting, and does he take any particular care to select a jeweler for the job?
Xenia, having selected a piece of wood to craft into a bow, visits Plateau City and buys excellent tools with which to work. [OOC: Is Xenia intending to speak with the other kids from Merrydale? Keep in mind that Bab returned to his family there, and only Catrina went on to the orphanage for training.]
Florin, concerned about his family, looks into the mails. He learns that there is a regular traffic in teleporting couriers between the Float and Plateau City. The Star Tower has a service, and the WLA has a few teleportation circles as well. Prices for transport of goods are in the 10 gp per ounce range, or around 1,500 gp per person. Members of the Star Tower and the WLA can get reduced rates. Florin does not investigate rumors that there is a grey market traffic as well, for an even higher price.
But the upshot is that he can write and send his letter for a not unreasonable (to a rich adventurer) price.
OOC: Is Xenia intending to speak with the other kids from Merrydale? Keep in mind that Bab returned to his family there, and only Catrina went on to the orphanage for training.]
No. Never made it to Merrydale.
Sorry, forgot that Bab went back home.
Harley Monday July 14th, 2008 8:33:44 PM
Harley will ask Wynn which jeweler he saw about the item he received at the tower. If Wynn recommends the jeweler, Harley will visit it and get his piece appraised.
Otherwise he relaxes at the plantation getting to kow the area and the people better.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Monday July 14th, 2008 9:09:40 PM
New tools laid out before her, Xenia spends days in meditation over the piece of wood. Or, maybe she's just delaying, afraid she'll mess it up. When will she ever be back in Cinnamon Valley to get another?
Syr AC 31 HP 142 h2 Tuesday July 15th, 2008 12:07:55 AM
Syr spends the time relaxing and just playing with the kids. During one of the quiet moments, he thinks of Gordo and his playing gradually develops a purpose. Without speaking of it, he slowly teaches a few of the older kids a few wrestling moves, adjusting their balance here or pointing out an opening there. To the children, his tone is light but those looking closely see a slight wrinkling at the corner of his eyes showing his intensity.
At Florin's mention of the business, the elf sighs, "Don't sweat giving more, everyone but me has only chipped in a grand. Speaking of which, I'm getting a bit impatient. Any idea when everyone wants to head over to the Float. The kids are obviously doing well."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Tuesday July 15th, 2008 8:08:30 AM
When confronted with the true value of the stone, the bard pauses to reflect. He casts detect magic on the stone and assuming it does not reveal any hidden qualities, the bard hesitantly decides to sell the ruby to the jeweler for the offered price.
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 9:25:22 AM
The newly upgraded Theodore spends a lot of time resting. Acquiring the new abilities has drained his energy.
And Macaw doesn't seem to appreciate the eerie blue glow from Theodore's eyes. The raven keeps his distance and continues his frequent hunts for bugs and mischief.
Role Call -ADM Scott the Southern Tuesday July 15th, 2008 6:43:21 PM
Cayzle XOXOX Florin XOXOX Syr XOXOO Theo XOXOX Harley XOXOX Wynn XOXOX Xenia XOXOX
Belkior is inactive
Only 3 DM posts. All players posted to each DM post (except yours truly for the weekend)
Cayzle, a bit more consistency please? We need a bit of time before killing off Florin... err I mean adventuring.
A Little More R&R (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 7:32:38 PM
[OOC: Thanks for the attendance posting. I promise five DM posts this week. This is the second of five, and as this is only Tuesday, I am on track so far!]
Syr spends time with the children of the orphanage. He finds that some kids take quickly to his tutelage; others are slower to catch on. But he feels that if he made a consistent effort, he could teach these youths. [OOC: With the Leadership feat and a little off-stage time, it would be very reasonable to teach a number of kids to be first level monks or warriors. Without the feat, it would take a significant commitment in RP and game time to accomplish the same goal, but that too is possible.]
But then Syr thinks about returning to the Float. There is business there too.
[OOC: Feel free to head back to the Float whenever you wish. One thing I hope the last module revealed is that I like the PCs to take charge fo their own fates and actions.]
Theo rests up.
Wynn decides to sell his non-magical ruby heart quickly. In a couple days, he is 1,000 platinum pieces (10,000 gp) richer.
Harley also takes his reward to the jeweler. This is a funnier proposition. It is not magic, but it was clearly made by magic ... magic not known to the civilization of Plateau City. The jeweler is willing to buy it for 5,000 gold, but Harley gets the feeling that he might well get a better price if he were to put the word out in certain scholarly and arcane circles. Does he do so?
Xenia gets ready to start her crafting. Or does she?
Florin Jadenth Tuesday July 15th, 2008 11:19:06 PM
Florin looks to Xenia and smiles, "Ahh, sorry Xenia, been away to long so I wasn't sure." He leaves that as is and allows Xenia to continue her talks with the kids.
Florin spends time with Syr the most for now, watching him play with the kids and grins as a thought comes to mind. Florin moves and tries to tackle Syr while he isn't looking. (Didn't do any rolls since it's for rp purposes and not meant to cause injury.)
Florin is glad he isn't wearing his armor, specially if he actually gets Syr tackled and calls out, "Come on kids, get him. Now's your chance." Florin grins more, expecting to get a couple punches to the arm over this but he couldn't resist picking on his friend.
After all this Florin smiles to Syr, "It has been too long since I been around all of you. An it will be nice to be around you. I been trying to learn about the elven people more but the Swords couldn't help out too much except the little time we spent with some elven people who were making there own home."
Florin is also ready to return to the Float but only when the group is ready.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 11:34:37 PM
"So you didn't decide to keep it after all, huh?" Xenia lays her head upon his broad chest in the darkness just before sleep. "You don't need it anywho. You already got heart."
And one dark finger traces a shape in the center of his chest.
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Wednesday July 16th, 2008 10:27:47 AM
After a couple of days of nothing, Theodore begins to feel it. A city boy, he's not used to the slower pace around the orphanage. He amuses himself by putting on shows for the orphans. Grand illusions, and concussive fireworks displays. He even works his magic directly on the children, giving them the power of flight or the ability to breath underwater, or even turning them into their favorite animal for a few moments.
Theodore seems to enjoy the excitement he provides. His thoughts frequently turn to home in Dirt City and his master Geoffrey whom would put on similar displays for the children there.
When not with the children, he spends time with his still new friends, trying to get to know them better. One question that he's been eager to get an answer on is, "What is the purpose of your group?"
He recalls his time spent with the Dark Horse Guild back in Dirt City and their many adventures and general wackiness.
A note on xp and leveling (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 16th, 2008 12:00:17 PM
Friends, as you update your PC sheets, please be extra careful with your new xp total. DO NOT assume you will have leveled.
Please do send me sheets in e-mail as well as post them to g-mail, as well. And CC Carl too.
Syr Wednesday July 16th, 2008 2:02:39 PM
He takes Florin's attack in stride and immediately seeks to escape the hold. Grunting with the exhertion, he fights half-heartedly with the pile of bodies around him. When Florin asks about elves Syr looks away uncomfortably. "Sorry big guy, my parents died on the Float when I was quite young and my family became Mother Flauset. I can't really say that I know much about them. To be frank, I can't even speak the language." He shrugs once, "When I met Prionel and his people, it was like meeting a people for the first time."
After a few days he waits until everyone is gathered together, "Guys, it's been nice spending some time here but I'm getting an urge to get back to the Float. Shall we?"
[OOC: Thanks, who knew Syr's leadership feat would come in handy in this way.]
Florin Jadenth Wednesday July 16th, 2008 11:57:58 PM
Florin looks to Syr and smiles saddly, "Sorry if I brought up a bad memory Syr. I think you told me that once actually. I guess I been away from the group so long that I had forgotte. I would try and get info on elven culture from one of the others but I do not know if anyone else knows much about the culture. Maybe Wynn has spent some time with elves. They say bards travel alot."
Florin smiles at the mention of the Float and looks to Syr, "If nothing else Syr, I will travel along with you and the others can return alittle later when they are ready." Florin shrugs, not minding really and figures if they are careful that the travel surely won't be that bad, "Reminds me, back at the Boydos tower I had to use my fist some. You have a new amount of respect from me, it's not as easy as it looks by any sense."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Thursday July 17th, 2008 7:26:09 AM
Wynn gives Xenia a warm embrace and lays quietly, listening to her breathing as she falls asleep.
The Kids Are Alright (DM Cayzle) Thursday July 17th, 2008 8:15:36 AM
A few days pass, and the kids really enjoy being with Syr and Florin. All of them enjoy the break in routine, and more than a couple really seem to have an intuitive grasp of the discipline needed to be monks. One of these, actually, is Catrina, the girl from Merrydale, who Syr thinks would make a fine monk.
Just as importantly, the interaction between Florin and Syr show the kids that even heroes can have fun, and that all paladins are not stick-in-the-muds, and that adventurers are friends, too.
[OOC: Syr, if you would like to take on several of the kids as apprentice monks, that would be fine, especially given your Leadership feat. So far as I can tell from your PC sheet, you have a cohort but no followers. having a few low level monks as followers is a good option.]
The monk and the paladin also talk about their backgrounds and the upcoming trip to the Float.
When not distracted by Syr and Florin, Theo entertains the kids as only a wizard can -- but as they seldom do, valuing mystery and aloofness over games and amusement. But then, Theo has never been one to flaunt his powers or lord it over others; he is more one to share a laugh, and now he demonstrates that friendship and humility are more powerful than mystery. More powerful, anyway, at winning the hearts of children.
As Theo turns one child into an eagle, and makes another invisible, maybe the thought crosses his mind that he would like some kids of his own, someday? Of course, Macaw is kind of like a spoiled child, sometimes!
Xenia and Wynn enjoy some quiet time together.
[DM OOC: When you are ready, I'll assume that Harley teleports you to the Float. When you go, please let me know where you will go and what you intend to do. My personal intention is to allow some down time, if needed, or we can launch right into the next thing. And "down time" can take as little as one quick post to conclude. As you all wish.]
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Thursday July 17th, 2008 9:47:03 AM
Indeed, Theodore enjoys his time fooling around with the kids. His laughter is as loud as any other's. But there is also an under current of sadness.
Why couldn't I have had friends like these when I was their age? Where was my fun? My chance to laugh and be happy?
Just for a moment the look of joy and amusement vanishes and is replaced by a heavy brow, a curled lip, and clenched teeth. This moment passes just as quickly. How could he be angry in the midst of such innocence and joy? A deep, shaking sigh and everything is right again.
Later on that night, Theodore cries quietly in his room. Macaw watches unnoticed from a perch beyond the window.
"Have you been to the Floating City, before?" Theodore asks Harley when they have a moment alone. "If you can teleport myself and a couple of others there, I can spend a few hours studying the area, come back and get the rest of us just like we did to get here."
Theodore begins to push the group to move on. He thirsts for the bustle of city life.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) d20+19=20 ; d20+19=30 ; d20+5=25 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 10:44:12 AM
After fretting for days, the girl rogue finally lays out her brand new shiny suite of masterwork tools. Off to one side is the curving branch that she had cut, special from Cinnamon Valley, the place from which Wynn had come.
The final ingredient is a wand. Just a little thing, a blessing of the gods to give her just the right edge. Zammo! She speaks the magic words.
Nothing happens.
Xenia shakes the wand. (To get all the magic up into one end, you understand.) Then she looks straight down into the point. (Never recommended with a loaded wand.) With a shrug, the rogue tries again.
This time, it works. She feels the blessing, and she settles down to carve.
A flake here, a flake there. It's not as hard as she had imagined. Almost as though the bow were already in the wood, and all she had to do was to uncover it. In seeming no time at all, the nice short compact bow was done. All that need left to be done is to spiff it up with neat little carvings and stuff.
Rolls and Actions UMD 20/nat1 then 30 vs DC20 (Burned 2 charges: Wand of Guidance) Craft (Bowyer) 25 (Natural 20!!!) Crafting Note: 25*12=300. Shortbow =300 sp. 25 is over twice DC12 so 1/2 time. Finished in half a week.
Expended: 2 charges Wand of Guidance
OoC: Dang. Forgot to subtract the gold spent at the Catacombs when I sent you the last CS, Cayzle. I'll fix that tonight and resend. Also include the materials for this crafting.
Harley Thursday July 17th, 2008 12:50:44 PM
Harley does not accept the offer from the jeweler. He follows his intuition and searches out more another opinion. Perhaps at a local church or in the arts district.
Malfus Al'Garik (DM Carl) Thursday July 17th, 2008 6:31:19 PM
Initially Harley's attempts at a sale meet with minimal success. But it seems he has put the word about in the right circles. He is approached at last by a slight fellow with a sour expression and fastidious beard. He is immaculately dressed, to the point of prissiness.
"My name is Malfus Al'Garik, of the Sages' Guild" he snaps. It is clear he considers talking to the likes of Harley as significantly beneath him. "I understand you have an item for sale which might be of interest to me. I'll see it now." He stands there, tapping his foot, exuding impatience, as he waits for Harley to present the egg. He takes the object in his hands, turns it a few times, runs his fingers over the surface, taps it lightly, places an ear to it, tuts in a disappointed manner, then suspends a pendulum over it and observes the way it swings. Finally he peers into the lens and examines the diorama within. All the while he maintains the expression of a man with far far better things to do, and far far better people to be doing them with.
"Hmf. A shame. Later period Gruwellan. His early work was far superior, of course, though not a patch on the master, Mageliani. And only a single piece. As a matching pair, these are an pretty enough diversion. Without its twin though, hardly worth my time. Still, one can hardly expect an adventurer" (he enunciates the word in the same way one might describe a particularly repugnant case of the pox) "to know of such things. I suppose it's a mercy you didn't try to cook it for breakfast. I'll give you 7000 gold for it, and consider yourself lucky I'm willing to part with that. "
He keeps hold of the golden egg as he reaches for his belt pouch.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) - 2nd Post Thursday July 17th, 2008 9:11:40 PM
Wood chips still clinking here and there, flakes of white against her dark clothing, Xenia appears just in time to hear the suggestion made by Theo Wizard Guy.
"We used to always just take the teleport pad. You wouldn't believe how much they've raised the prices, though. 1500 klinkers per person!!! Fifteen hundred! But I guess you coulda seen that coming from across the lake, what with all the rebuilding going on after the Fey King crisis. They got everyone over a barrel."
"If you think you can make it, Harley, that would be great. Otherwise, we could pay all chip in to send you both across."
Florin Jadenth d20+3=19 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 9:48:44 PM
Florin smiles and looks to Syr, "Looks like the kids are learning more lessons then just monk skills and such. I think they might be abit young to learn the sword though so no use for me to try anything." Florin smiles, knowing he will get leadership training later when he finally takes his last training in the WLA but that was a ways away, he didn't have the money to donate for that. Florin's mind does go back to little Jella though, she was only 5 and he had been teaching her how to handle a dagger and later was working with a shortsword, between teaching her of the ways of a paladin. He however never went out of his way to make her think he expected her to be like him, she needed to choose her own path in life.
Florin looks to Syr, "Heh, if you start teaching I might take some beginner tips from you too. Not that I plan to be a monk you know, just might come in handy one day."
He hadn't taken time for this in some time so later when he can Florin will slip off and practice with his bastardsword "Glimmer" since it's his weapon of choice. If any of the kids do follow him or anything then he will becareful to keep a eye on them, speaking to any who watch, "Ahh, like Syr, I have to keep in practice too." Florin will look over any gathered kid/s and thinks before moving to get a decent stick or so, making sure it is not to long or heavy, "If you like to try I will show you the correct movments. Just remember though, any weapon is to be respected, the moment you don't, it will teach you too."
Other then training some, spending time with the kids and with Ajax which he summons and will let the kids have a small ride if they wish, Florin just tries to relax.
In his offtime Florin will pull out his tools for silverworking and just kind of mess with it to see what happens. (Craft silverworking:19)
Syr Friday July 18th, 2008 12:54:52 AM
Syr shrugs his shoulders, "Teaching? I dunno... what with the business and all. I'm not quite sure that I have the time. I suppose I could show them some tips from time to time..." His brow wrinkles in thought, "Do you really think they want to learn? Sure some of them have promise..."
When Florin offers to join the class, the elf chuckles, "What do they say again about old dogs and tricks?"
The elf waits patiently for the others to prepare to leave but seems to be watching Harley a bit more than is necessary.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) - 2nd Post Friday July 18th, 2008 11:05:42 AM
*ffffff-tuk*
Needs some work.
*ffffff-tuk*
The pulls not as smooth as her masterwork bow. That throws off the aim. But this is her bow. Made with her own hands. And who knows. Maybe, with a little practice, someday she could become a master bow maker.
*ffffff-tuk*
"You wanna try, Kyria?" Xenia turns to the little blonde haired girl sitting nearby. Xenia's special friend. She's grown so much. Maybe ten years old from the look of her now. And now a nut brown, tanned by the sun. Living out here on the plantation looks to have been good for her.
Xenia strings up her old bow, the masterwork one she'd bought at the Catacombs. Short as the bow is, it's still a bit big for the girl.
*f-shuk*
The arrow buries itself into the ground a short distance away.
"Here. Lets work on your release ... "
The afternoon passes. Some arrows actually hit the target. In the end, Xenia gives the masterwork bow to little Kyria.
"We're leaving for Floating City soon, Sweetheart," Xenia says, bending for a hug. "But I'll leave that bow with you, and you can show me what you can do next time we come out."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Friday July 18th, 2008 9:42:47 PM
Wynn watches Xenia with her new bow as she teaches her protege. He smiles and returns to his writing. When teh rest are ready to go to Floating City, Wynn will accompany them. He is anxious to return to their home to see what progress has been made in their absence.
Ready to Return to the Float (DM Cayzle) Saturday July 19th, 2008 1:40:16 AM
Theo's play with the kids makes him realize the Crimson Shields are giving these orphans gifts that many have not had the chance to enjoy. That he himself did not enjoy. That's a sad thought, but maybe it is a happy thought too. Either way, the mage is ready to go to the Float.
Xenia is busy making her bow. She finds that she has some skill for it. When it is done, she spends some time with one of the wards of the orphanage, one with whom she shares a bond. The girl does not say much, but she looks up to Xenia, she can tell, with a little more than some hero worship and love.
Xenia tells the group that teleporting to the Float is way expensive. If Theo and Harley can manage it, the group should be okay ... and it seems likely they can.
Harley finds that a sage has heard of his egg, and is interested in buying it. [OOC: Please do continue the bargaining with DM Carl. Either we'll assume that the trading happens while the group is still on the Plateau, of Harley can teleport back and forth if the negotiations drag out.]
What does an off-duty paladin do? Well, Florin makes good use of his time fooling around and training with Syr and the kids, and also with the sword later on, again with kids. Add in visiting with his holy mount -- and a few "pony rides" -- plus puttering around doing silverwork and his own private practice, and Florin's days are very full.
Syr enjoys the interaction with Florin and the kids, but watches Harley too. Thinking about getting back to the Float, maybe?
Wynn updates his journal and just relaxes. He too is ready to go back to the Float.
Is everyone ready? Where in the Float are you going, exactly? When? How do you appear? what do you do after that?
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) - 2nd Post Sunday July 20th, 2008 8:32:23 AM
"Everything on Open Level is *BIG*!" Xenia throws her arms up under the wide open sky (the real sky) as a counter point to the massive temples and palaces that surround them.
"Gold is where all the richies and nobles live. [i]It's where Florin's folks live too," she whispers to Harley and Theo, as part of the Gold Level part of the tour.
"This is Merchant Level. We got our new digs here. We'll come back up here so lets move through real quick."
"Barracks Level is where the City Guard does their city guarding."
"Fence Level. This is where we used to live. 'Afore the Fey King had the Crying Woods tear the Float down. The Giggling Ghost is here too. You'll like it. Best inn on the Float."
"And this is Trash Level." The rogue stops at the bottom of the final underramp as the terrific stench of the place rolls over her little tour group. The tremendous poverty and suffering speaks for itself.
OoC: I have jpegs of the group's old apartement, the layout of the Plateau City plantation and others. How do I get a login on Woldipedia to upload these?
Harley Sunday July 20th, 2008 11:54:19 AM
Harley contemplates Malfus's offer. It is better than the last offer by 40%. A lot of what the man says goes right over Harley's head. One thing does catch his ear and that is that fact that there is a twin to the egg. Harley really doubts there is a twin to the egg considering where and who he got it from. That little bit of information causes Harley not to trust the man's offer. He wonders if there is more to this egg than meets the eye.
"You say it is worth more with its twin? Well then I will just have to go back out adventuring and find the other one. This way I can maximize my profit by selling both at the same time. Malfus, I thank you for taking the time to educate me on the value of my egg. Where can I find you when I have both?"
Harley retrieves his egg and goes back to his companions and gets ready to go to the floating city.
OOC - character updated on google docs. Do you want an email copy?
Malfus Al'Garik (DM Carl) Sunday July 20th, 2008 4:07:36 PM
The prim fellow's eye's go wide as his bluff is called, and the colour drains from his face.
"You- you'll just go out and find another one? A relic from the second age? Are you mad? Have you any idea how rare these things-"
He stops, hands over his mouth, aware of what he has just said. Backpeddling furiously he says "Ah, that is to say, I know a collector who might be willing to part with enough to make it worth my while to up my offer a little. Ten thousand, and not a copper bit more. If you need to think about it you can reach me by enquiring at the Sages' Guild."
Syr Monday July 21st, 2008 9:25:37 AM
Assuming the party travels back to the Float, Syr immediately breaks away, "Guys, I gotta beg off Xenia's tour." He grins at Xenia, "I've been here once or twice, I think. Besides, I have to go check on Dotta and Shield Construction to see how things are going. I'll catch back up to you at the house." He looks over at the paladin, "Hey Florin, want to come?"
(OOC: How many weeks have we been gone?)
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Monday July 21st, 2008 11:49:00 AM
Theodore is ready to go. As soon as Harley takes him over, Theodore can look around a bit before coming back to get the others.
Home Sweet Home (DM Cayzle) Monday July 21st, 2008 5:58:40 PM
Harley and the sage continue their bargaining [DM OOC: Feel free to continue that, and we will retcon the results into the game as needed]. Harley gets ready to return.
Theo and Harley are the first to go, so that Theo can get to know the place and then help ferry the party. By the end of the day, the Crimson Shields are home.
Belkior joins the party and returns with you. [OOC: John P tells me he will be rejoining us soon, yay!]
Angus stays here in proximity to the Orphans and the advantages of Plateau City.
Xenia offers a tour of the Float. Syr offers a tour of the business. Seems that Theo will have a lot to see, should he choose to go a-sight-seeing
A couple of the orphans ask Syr to take them with and train them to be monks in his service. Does he allow that?
[DM OOC: We are close to a new module, folks. Please take a day to catch up RP-wise. Any special actions before we jump into it?]
Florin Jadenth Monday July 21st, 2008 8:02:43 PM
(OOC:Cayzle, computer use is abit limited right now. I will get my CS updated as quick as possible. To save time could Florin see about getting some healing potions like csw or such right here in the game.)
Florin smiles and nods to Syr, "I'll come along. I need to see if I can get some healing items too." Florin looks to the others, "Enjoy the tour guys. Have fun Xenia. Ohh." Florin pulls out the letter he had wrote to Ivy and Jella and grins, holding it out to Xenia, "Would you mind dropping this off at my house on your tour. I jotted the location of the groups new home on here after you explained to me back at the orphanage. I like everyone to meet Ivy."
Florin heads off with Syr, and talks to him about stopping at the GG a moment. At the GG Florin goes in and speaks to Happy. This being the first time heh as seen Happy in sometime, since the Fey King stuff. He explains to Happy about his marriage to Ivy and such and asks if it would be possible to have a small gathering (just Ivy, Jella and the group). Since this may cost more then Florin has considering he needs to buy some healing items he hopes Happy will allow him to pay the bill later, offering a signed IOU since a paladin is usually good for his word.
With this done Florin slips back out and heads the rest of the way with Syr, "We have to go back to the GG later. I hope you and the others won't mind. I think it's fitting that we have a nice meal as a group in the GG like old times. Not to mention maybe Ivy won't want my head for vanishing for awhile on her."
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Monday July 21st, 2008 8:16:16 PM
Lying on her back, Xenia kicks her feet, a pillow over her mouth to cover the sounds of glee.
Her bed! Her own bed!
Outside, the light from the magic ceiling bathes Merchant Level in afternoon glow. It lights the balcony outside the room, the room that belongs to Wynn and herself. It lights the nice woods just beyond the stone wall. Their own stone wall.
Tonight she'd wear the satin Chemise for him. So smooth against her skin. So smooth beneath his hand.
Night would come soon enough to all the levels.
And tomorrow? Tomorrow begins the investigation. The investigation into Lord Perimon. The guy who sent the settlers into the Crying Woods in the first place. The guy who took Prionel prisoner. The guy probs responsible for the attack during the times of the Fey King.
Might take 'bout a week to dig out just what he was up to. A week to find out just how bad he really is. Then would come the thieving. Bit by bit, thieving everything he's got. Thieving him blind.
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 9:35:26 AM
Theodore sticks with the tour group, listening attentively to Xenia. "Are there any places in the city where students of the Art congregate?" he asks her. If there are any such places, Theodore makes a note to visit them, later.
He also asks Xenia, "What is the purpose of your group?"
PC Sheets (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:47:26 AM
Cayzle OOC: Yes, please put them on Google and send them to me too. No hurries.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) - 2nd Post Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 11:05:42 AM
OoC: Flashback
"Well, there's the Star Mage's guild in Plateau City," Xenia says in reply. "I mean, if you can pop around the way you been doing, Theo, don't see no reason why you couldn't go see them there."
The rogue takes a quick look over her shoulder, a look back at the Jadenth estate. No one but a snooty Major Domo there to take Florin's letter. Would have been nice to see what Ivy looked like.
"You know, Theo, never understood why them Star Mages never had a place out here on the Float. Maybe you could talk 'em into letting you start a chapter. Or a tower. Or a coven. Or whatever you call that stuff."
"As for the Shields, it's in the name. We pertect folks. Orphans. Lost druids. Stuff like that. What do you think? Of the group, I mean?"
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 5:38:54 PM
Wynn re-aquaints himself with their abode in floating city. He does the rounds of the neighbourhood, looking in on local shopkeepers, speaking with the neighbours, and regaling patrons of the local watering holes with stories of the Crimson Shields, Plateau City, and Cinnamon Valley. His songs, poems and stories feature the heroics of Xenia, Syr, Belkior and the others, his own part having been insignificant in comparison. On more than one occasion he raises a glass in memory of Lang, the best damn bugbear anyone could ever hope to meet.
At home the bard falls easily into the quiet life. Mornings on the small veranda with a mug of steaming 'Kaffe' and Xenia, an hour or so of weapons practice, albeit always at a much more relaxed pace than the others, and a few hours of 'puttering' about the house repairing anything that appears to be in need of repair, or anything too small for Syr and his workforce.
The nights are for Xenia and him. He had wondered at times if his feelings for the dark-skinned rogue would wane with time, but to his surprise they had deepened. He looked forward each evening to the night, and their time together.
Belkior Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:53:59 PM
The halfling cleric listens intently as his companions discuss the recent events.
"It appears that I have missed a lot of happenings. Can anyone briefly tell me what has occurred?"
Harley Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 11:03:53 PM
Harley turns back around when the man, Malfus increases his offer to 10,000 gps. He ignores the man's mad comment. He slowly returns to stand in front of Malfus, turning the precious egg over in his hand. Harley gives the egg a long hard look before making his decision.
"Malfus, I think we are both going to make out well on this deal. I accept your offer of 10,000 gps. Thank you for the fair deal."
Harley goes with the sage to collect his money.
After he gets his money he heads over to the catacombs for a quick purchase or two.
Syr Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 2:03:29 AM
Before leaving the orphanage the elf stands in the middle of the small pack of children smiling happily. Syr shakes his head fondly at the children, "Give it a bit more time little ones. No need to grow up so fast. But you all keep practicing and I'll be back to test you."
Once back at the Float, Syr breathes in the stale air from the crowded city, "There is no other place I'd call home." He breaks away from the others to head down to Shield Construction.
On the way to work, Syr chats with Florin, occasionally pointing out a building that their crew did work on. He enters the offices of Shield Construction and immediately spies Dotta. With a smile he rushes up to give her a strong hug before whispering briefly in her ear. When he notices her peering over his shoulder he takes a step back and introduces the two of them. "Dotta was quite a find at a time when this city really needed it. She's the best construction foreman in the city. Wood, stone, thatch, you name it!" Leading Florin through the warehouse, he talks about the trade arrangements they've made with the elves for raw materials giving most of the credit to their foreman. Later, he sits down with Dotta to discuss business.
(OOC: I'm gonna assume 3 months has passed.)
Role Call -ADM Scott the Southern Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 2:21:48 AM
Cayzle XXXOX (Missed DM post) Florin OXXOO Theo XXXOX Syr XXXOX Xenia XXXOX Wynn XXXOO Harley XOXOX
Malfus Al'Garik (DM Carl) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 3:51:39 AM
Malfus hands over the whole pouch of gold. The resentment that glitters briefly in his dark eyes is swiftly replaced by a look of avarice as the egg is handed over.
"Marvelous" he breaths, stroking the egg. Harley is completely forgotten. "The workmanship! I'd heard, but never dared to dream..."
He wanders off and is soon lost in the crowd.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) - 3rd Post Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 9:59:08 AM
"Since you went back with Angus?" Xenia shakes her head. "Not much. After you left, we went into the Tower of Boydos. Yeah. I know, bad move. But it didn't seem real safe for those ex-Ga'alies."
"The inside is all weird and shifty. All in all, nothing real threatening. There were these two guys, Tangle and Jangle. Ginormous dwarves with amazing powers. They could make stuff appear just by waving their hands. But they were pretty friendly, and mostly just interested in betting and watching things fight."
"There was also this, place, like, we'd stepped into the middle of a war. There were all these clerics of Alemi there. They were, you know, zombies, but they didn't know it. You woulda thought that was pretty weird."
"I think we were only in there a couple of days. But when we come out, looks like a week or more's passed by."
"Heard you put down some ghost things out at the plantation. I tell you, that place is, like, this magnet for the undead or sump'in."
Have you been half asleep? And have you heard voices? (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 12:57:55 PM
Florin goes shopping locally for a few healing potions. He can easily find cure light wounds potions for 100 gold each, and cure moderate wounds potions for 500 each. Cure serious wounds potions will take a little looking. That's without bargaining or doing anything else to look for a deal DM OOC: I can think of a couple ways to get better deals, but don't want to tell you them. Think of one or two yourself and we'll see. Or pay for convenience!]
Florin finds that Happy makes it easy for him. Of course he can throw a private party at the Ghost! And of course his word is bond on the expenses -- Happy pretends to be offended at any other suggestion. He tells Florin that he has a very nice roast of lamb that will be perfect for the affair. Any special requests for decorations or entertainment? Happy can have a house minstrel, or whatever Florin likes. Happy asks if this is a surprise party?
After the touring, Xenia just revels in being home.
Theo asks where mages gather in the city, and of course, since the Float is to its core a magical place, there are lots of sites that attract arcane interest. Garfold's Tower of Timelessness, say, or Critaceous' Certified Curios. The House of Gnerwen attracts its share of casters. Though some look down on it, Professor Nightshade's Taxidermy Shop is a trove of a certain kind of lore. Not to mention diverse taverns and watering holes that cater to the more cerebral crowd. Theo does not have time today to do more than collect names of places to visit later!
Theo and Xernia have an interesting conversation about the Crimson Shields.
Wynn spends the day sniffing around his old haunts. There are welcomes from many, though some familiar faces are not to be seen. The most ominous note: rumors of plague, especially in the Trash Level. But he is glad to come home and spend the evening with Xenia. Home at last.
Belkior and Xenia compare notes about recent events.
Harley drives a hard bargain with the quirky scholar and returns to the Float as well. Time for some shopping!
Syr bids the children farewell and engages Florin in conversation. But the business of business fills his thoughts. Dotta and her crews have been very busy still patching up damage done by the agents of the Fey King and his allies. But the work has gone much faster than expected. The Float is teeming with Fixers of Alemi, who walk around helping out without pay. Some people fear the way their hands glow, not to mention the drops of blood they pull out of the air to use in their work. But there's no question that the city would be in far worse shape now without them.
[DM OOC: Let e know in e-mail more about this business, please. Is it for profit? Send Carl and Cayzle some details, please.]
It is a busy first day back, and at night you all fall into sleep easily and deeply.
And maybe it is no surprise that in your dream, you all see each other, sitting in chairs in a circle. A strong but older man in a blacksmith's apron stands at the center of your dream circle.
Xenia, Wynn, Syr, and Belkior recognize this man. It is Domi, the god of bravery, who set you on your mission to stop the agents of Ga'al in the southern Windbourne Hills. But Theo, Harley, and Florin sense immediately that they are in the presence of divinity.
You have done well, oh children. You have been brave indeed. Some have fallen away into the dark, as I knew they would. But fate and more have conspired to put other able heroes in their places. You get a feeling of sadness tempered by hope from the god, as he no doubt intends.
You have done well in my service, far from your floating home. And you see that you have returned here in time to continue your heroic work now, when you are needed. But I will not send you off to your labors without reward, nor with mysteries unrevealed. Come, ask me your questions, and then tell me if you would prefer a blessing, or a boon. The blessing will help you with your greatest weakness. The boon is a favor that you can ask of me -- to be fulfilled right now.
Come, my heroes! Be brave, and speak.
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 8:48:49 PM
It's the Power Dream again. Xenia takes a moment to admire the look of stately calm and self possession on Wynn's face. It's in the eyes. Yup. Must be in the eyes.
Then the Domi guy says something about boons and blessings, and the Xenia's own eyes go wide.
"Um, um, if you don't mind, I got a question. Well, it's two questions. I mean, when you say boon to fulfill right now, do you mean I could ask for five hundred thousand gold klinkers to take with me and spend any way I want to? Or, or, could I ask you go give me the power to 'port myself, like Theo, any time I wanted, as many times as I wanted, forever?"
There is a pause. It's a speechless kinda pause. Mostly 'cause the rogue is speechless with the thought of it all.
"Um ... second question is ... " She scrapes together a modicum of composure. " ... I mean, as a god, you know. As a god who's interested in pertecting folks, like I hear that you are. Couldja tell me, what do you think my greatest weakness is?"
Belkior Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 9:50:14 PM
The halfling cleric ponders how he has become fated to meet with the helpmate of his deity so many times. Belkior's training, and personal experience, has shown him that these meetings are frequently portents of great change in the Wold. And great change usually bring sboth opportunity and danger to the mortals who become involved in the dealings of the Gods of the Wold.
"Excuse me, Domi. Could you tell us more of what our task will be?"
Belkior nervously swings his bare feet above the floor, resisting the urge to wrap his toes around the legs of the chair as he would a thin branch in the top of a tree. After waiting for the God to reply to both his question and Xenia's, Belkior states his request.
"I am unsure whether I desire a blessing or a boon. Either way, I wish to protect and preserve my companions."
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Thursday July 24th, 2008 12:30:59 AM
Wynn remembers the last time he was give the opportunity of a gift...the Knot of Druiss was not so kind to him. He had learned to live with the affliction of webbed fingers and gills, and they had even been useful on a few occassions, but the memory was still fresh in his mind and begged caution.
"Domi " he asks, "When we overcame the Ga'alian priest in the dragon's lair, and Syr ripped the heartseed from his chest, was this the cause of the withered heartseeds elsewhere? How did our actions have such widespread effect?"
Given that Domi does not grow impatient with the questions of mere mortals, Wynn will ask for a blessing. "I have many weaknesses great Domi" he starts, "Xenia is perhaps my greatest. I would wish for a greater ability to defend her and my companions from danger. " With that simple request, the bard retakes his seat and awaits judgement.
Syr Thursday July 24th, 2008 11:07:43 AM
Syr sits quietly while others speak, weighing the blessing vs. boon in his mind. As the others mention protecting each other as their weakness, the elf finds his thoughts drifting toward the orphans and not the group. Coming to a decision quickly, he smiles at the man.
Standing up in his dream, he comes before the man head bowed in respect, "I can understand everyone's hesitancy and it's hard not to look a gift horse in the mouth. However, my trainings have consistently led me toward improving myself and my abilities. As you are in close contact with one that I revere, I will trust in his judgment. Please grant me a blessing to aid my weakness?"
(OOC: guys, I'm off on vacation from the 28th-6th. Any volunteers to take Syr then?)
Edited per player request. --Al
Al - OoC Thursday July 24th, 2008 11:20:03 AM
I'll take Syr.
Harley Thursday July 24th, 2008 12:39:26 PM
Harley is in awe when one of his favorite Gods of the Wold visits the Crimson Shields. He is struck speechless at first, unable to answer the blessing or boon request. After his companions begin to speak, Harley is able to gather his thoughts and provide an answer.
"If it is your desire, I too would like a blessing that will reduce my greatest weakness."
OOC - on vacation August 4th through 8th. Anyone want to sub?
Al - OoC Thursday July 24th, 2008 6:19:39 PM
Unless anyone else speaks up by tomorrow afternoon, I'll keep Harley going too.
Answers, Blessings, and Boons: Part One (DM Cayzle) Friday July 25th, 2008 6:49:08 AM
Domi smiles at Xenia's frankness. I like your boldness, Hero, he says. It might help you to think of a boon as a miracle, or a wish.
I am a smith, and so I would say that your weakness is that you are weak.
Belkior asks, "Could you tell us more of what our task will be?" The god answers, Rarely, the gods set a task for a mortal. But more often, we Gods of the Wold prefer to let you mortals find your own way. The path ahead is the path of your own choosing. Be brave and choose well.
Wynn asks about the relation of the party deeds and the recent happenings with regard to heartseeds. Domi answers, By destroying that cleric, you made it easier for other adventurers to do their own job. Those other heroes destroyed the mother heartseed plant in Aisildur, and that caused all heartseeds to wither. Your part was important but incidental to that. if the dragon had converted however, the cleric's revenge -- achieved on dragonback -- would have been catastrophic.
Wynn asks for help protecting others. Good answer, says Domi, smiling.
Syr and Harley ask for a blessing.
Florin and Theo remain quiet. Domi looks at the two, and says, Be bold, now.
[OOC: Xenia has yet to choose boon or blessing. Theo and Florin have yet to say anything. I'll post this evening or after those three have posted. Harley, Syr, Wynn, and Belkior may post too, of course, but since they have already chosen, it is not essential, and I won't wait for them.]
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Friday July 25th, 2008 10:01:08 AM
(OOC - Sorry, apparently I did not hit the submit button on my post yesterday.)
Theodore is awed to be in the presence of a deity. His second one, but Domi exudes beneficence and calm rather than Marteaus' loathing and disdain.
"I'm sorry," he says to Domi, bowing from his chair. "I'm a bit overtaken by the situation."
As the others speak and ask their questions, Theodore is able to ponder his own choice. He nods his head resolutely.
When he has a chance, "I would ask a boon of you. I fear that my body is too frail to stand up to the power of my enemies. Could you improve my physical constitution, so that I might better withstand the weapon strikes that will surely come my way?"
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Friday July 25th, 2008 11:42:09 AM
His words strike her heart, and her heart, it resounds like a drum. That Wynn would think of her first. Suffused in a wealth of feeling, the rogue nearly misses the words spoken by the god of protection.
"Um, thank you. Domi. Your Grace." Xenia, face flushed red under her dark skin, stumbles through a more demure tone of voice. "I think, if you don't mind, that I'd like a boon too. I heard of this wizard Bond, sump'in that lets you talk to each other through your thoughts. You can talk no matter how far away you are."
"I'd like that for the Shields. So we can work better together. For anyone who is or becomes a Shield. I mean, if that's not askin' too much, Your Grace."
"You know, I keep gettin' the feeling that we met somewhere else 'afore. Not last time, like, I mean, I keep seeing this dragon. And a big battle with orcs and stuff."
"Dunno where it comes from."
"Your Grace."
Syr Friday July 25th, 2008 8:44:47 PM
In the dream, Syr waits patiently in front of the man to bestow his blessing. However, once Xenia responds, he is surprised by her selfless request. He nods to himself with approval that her request speaks well of her heart.
Blessings and Boons: Part Two (DM Cayzle) Friday July 25th, 2008 10:53:01 PM
Domi nods and then reaches out toward you. A light with no visible source grows brighter and brighter until everything is white. When you wake up ...
Wynn finds under his pillow a Rod of Enemy Detection.
Xenia finds that she and Wynn (only) are joined as by a permanent Telepathic Bond.
Belkior finds that he has gained a +2 sacred bonus to his Strength.
Syr gains a +2 sacred bonus to his Charisma. So too does Harley.
Theo gains a +1 sacred bonus to his Strength and +1 to his Constitution.
Florin, who was too shy to speak, gains no boon.
It is a new day in the Float -- a day for a party for Ivy?
Xenia (AC24, 68/68HP) Saturday July 26th, 2008 8:48:37 PM
"I had the most won'erful dream, Wynn." Xenia rolls over to place her chin upon his chest.
"You were great," she thinks, with a smile, cat satisfied. Then ...
"Hey!" It sounded different. "Did you hear that?" In her mind, it sounded different. "I mean, did you hear that in your head, Wynn?" The dream! The dream was true!!!
The next few moments are spent scrambling about the two houses of the properties. Knocking on doors and rousing the others. Can she talk to the others with her mind? No. Only she and Wynn. It isn't till late in the game that she realizes that she's running around in just her panties and filmy chemise.
++++++++++++++++++++++
After breaking fast, Xenia kits up for work. She kits up for war.
"I'm going out for a bit, Wynn. Gonna try and find out what Lord Perimon's been up to. I'll be up to Alder House first and look up Tarketh. Then maybe stalk around, see if I can't find Perimon's place."
"Love you," she thinks to her sweetie.
Xenia leaves the properties. Next stop, the Circle of Alder, Gold Level, between Copper Way and Ruby Walk. They were the ones who opposed Perimon's settlement in the first place. If anyone would know about him, it would be them.
OoC: Note, Telepathic Bond documented on CS under Feats.
Wynn [AC=26; HP=75/75] Sunday July 27th, 2008 7:00:10 PM
Wynn hears Xenia's mental aside and smiles. "It was you who were great" he thinks. His mind returns briefly to the last several evenings when they had finally had time alone together. "It was you who were great!". The bard's last thought, laced with a hint of lechery sends the rogue running about the house in her 'smalls', much to his amusement.
Once Xenia has determined that her ability is limited to the two of them, he offers to accompany her to find out about Lord Perimon. "Perhaps we can also find out about Prionel and the fate of his people at the city in the trees".
Belkior Sunday July 27th, 2008 10:45:51 PM
The halfling cleric feels his body ripple as Domi gestures towards him in the dream. Belkior's small frame is more muscled and sturdy even if he feels awkward. When he wakes in the morning, the Paragon finds that he needs to re-learn how to handle items and even move, now that he is suddenly stronger.
Question: Cayzle, I had e-mailed you last week about updating Belkior's CS. Specifically: - can he add the magic items that he had been working on crafting? - any experience or other award?
Theodore & Macaw (arcane sight, comprehend languages, darkvision, see invisibility, tongues) Monday July 28th, 2008 9:47:19 AM
(OOC - Updated sheet in link above.)
Theodore wakes up feeling stronger and sturdier. He grins foolishly as he pulls his satchel on, the weight not as much of a nuisance. "Oh boy! Thank you, Domi!" he says to the roof of the apartment, not knowing anywhere better to direct his gratitude.
"Well, I'm going to do some exploring," he says to his group. "I think I'll stop by the Certified Curios for a bit and then check out the Tower of Timelessness. If you need me, I'll probably be at one or the other."
Syrdeth Redbow pauses above his washbowl, his face reflected on the surface of the water. Is that a steelier glint at the corner of his eye? A firmer set to his jaw?
Charisma. A subtle thing.
He watches as a smile touches the lips of the reflection on the water. A smile of approval. A smile of greater confidence.
Whatever it is, Syr decides, it's good and it works.
He dips his hands into the bowl to wash his face and ready for the day and the trip down to Fence Level and the offices of Shield Construction.
OOC: Final Bookkeepings and a Welcome (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 29th, 2008 7:43:04 AM
Friends, here are some hero point and RP awards for the just-finished module. These are in addition to awards already granted in-game.
Syr - 3 hero points (note leadership role in the Undead Infirmary, ditto pilgrim ferrying). Wynn - 2 hero points (note bravery in ferrying pilgrims across chasm) Florin - 1 hero point Theo - 2 hero points, 300 xp award for Macaw's antics Belkior - 1 hero point, 300 xp award for interacting with the Goncklyn family in Merrydale. Xenia - 2 hero points (note leadership role in the Undead Infirmary), 200 xp award for RP with jangle and Tangle. (Xenia already got an in-game award for her lightning rod trick) Harley - 2 hero points
Note that to an extent these are arbitrary, so apologies if anyone feels slighted. Also, I was sorry not to get more nominations.
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Justin, playing Florin, said on July 22 that he would be out of touch for just a day or two. But he has not posted since then, so I can't say what is going on. Thus, (A) it may be unfair of me to award him no boon from Domi -- I may retcon that after I hear from Justin. and (B) until I hear otherwise, we'll give Florin his party today (see below) and give him an honorable exit from the game for now.
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And let me add some good news! We have a new player, Jeff Luddington at icurbstompu at yahoo dot ca. If you have not done so yet, please shoot him a welcome e-mail. He'll be joining us soon.
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Arrgh! Not enough time in the day. I'll post the start of the new module between 10 and 12:10 today eastern time.
LOG ON