Plans - DM Matt Monday September 15th, 2008 6:51:54 PM
Once the fight ends and the Knights have a few moments to rest and discuss their plans, most seem to think a visit to the Fixer's temple is in order. A few suggest sending pieces of Legion equipment to various places for study.
Arrak nods his agreement. "I think any consideration to Gargul's temple can only help your standing, given recent events. And letting those who need knowledge study these . . . things, should prove invaluable. I myself would like to keep a few tidbits for my laboratory.
"I leave the choice to you, but if you like, I can have my servants see to dividing up what should be studied and sending it to the proper places. Leave what you like, and we will see to it."
[ooc: posting of more substance will start soon. Just give me some info on what you want to do and how you want to do it, and we'll get moving. I assume that no matter what, a visit to PC is coming, so just tell me how you are getting there - Matt]
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Monday September 15th, 2008 7:40:47 PM
Dwight, "Yes, definitely time to fix stuff. I hope to add my small talents to the fixing of my own bow, perhaps tweak it some."
OOC: Would it be possible to 'fix' my bow, but change the arcanes from fire/ice to holy/??? Essentially, I need to make my bow more powerful, but it has to done by me to keep my sharpshooter perks. If not, that is fine, I'll just need to make a new one from scratch.
My gut says no. "Fixing" implies returning to its previous state. But I don't know enough about how Fixers work. POst on the rules board for an answer if you don't mind, and we'll go with the consensus there. -Matt
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Monday September 15th, 2008 9:15:01 PM
Sounds good to me.... me'd like the rest of me gear fixed up. Me could also do with some financial... rejuvination.... Fred needs a new scabbard.. :-)
VedikCurrent Spells AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Tuesday September 16th, 2008 8:37:33 AM
Vedik nods at Arrak's words.
"Arien do you have any teleport spells available? Lets finish this fine meal and travel to the Fixer temple in Plateau City. We probably have some things to take care of concerning the mansion as well. After that, put the orb in the cave and see about the Son's."
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday September 16th, 2008 5:42:45 PM
While the Group is talking Tratain makes the Orb is secure again in a sack he carries.
He says to Lord Arrak, "Since we are going to Plataue City we can drop off a set of Armor to the Temple of Gargul for study. Would you like a set for the Dragon Council? We also need to get a set to the Dragon Consortium. Could you handle that for us?"
He says to the Group "If we can't teleport today, we should head to the Cave first tomorrow to put the orb there. After that we can head to the City."
Plans - DM Matt Tuesday September 16th, 2008 8:13:28 PM
Arrak nods, "I can certainly handle delivery of two sets to the Council and the Consortium. Of course, I'm going to get my own curiousity satisfied as well. At my age, interesting discoveries are fewer and farther between. I tend to take my studies where and when I can get them."
Waving his arm wide, Arrak adds, "Stay the night. Rest, relax a few moments more. Then in the morning, travel where you might when fully rested. Or not, the choice is yours, but you are welcome." Other than that, he allows the group to discuss plans as desired.
OOC: teleporting to the cave, then PC? Also, is the full group now Tratain, Monthor, Vedik, Arien, and Dwight?
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Tuesday September 16th, 2008 10:03:51 PM
Dwight agrees with Tratain. The sooner the orb is placed back in relative safety the better for Plateau City, Arrak's begonia and our own uninterupted ability to rest.
Course, Dwight is really ready to just get his bow remade.
Arien(HP 67/67: AC: 14 (touch:14) Fly Wednesday September 17th, 2008 2:59:20 AM
"Not currently, I can memorize some in the morning if we choose to stay the night as Arrak suggests." Arien takes a drink of a particularly fine vintage of wine and waits for the group to make a decision.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Wednesday September 17th, 2008 9:24:35 AM
"I say we stay, if you're willing to risk our company. Although, truthfully, I'm not sure how much more damage we could wreck upon your home." he adds wistfully.
OOC: I just reread the Fixer restoration ability, some bad news: Fixing magic items takes a full day each (I'm guessing 8 hours work, like magic item creation is?). So its not just a question of getting drops. Unless we find another (several) high level fixer, we're looking at 20+ days of downtime. I'm not sure we can afford to wait that long with the Son's recovering strength Thoughts?
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday September 17th, 2008 10:21:28 AM
Tratain listens to the Others and says "Let us spend the night here. Tomorrow Morning we will teleport first to the Cave to store the Orb, and then to the City to Deliver a Set of Armor and then go visit the Fixers for as long as we need if they are willing to help. Lord Arrak, if you could pick out three sets of armor you think would be most beneficial for study, we will probably sell the rest."
OOC: We'll teleport to the cave, store the Orb, then go back to the City. I think the Downtime is Unavoidable, at least mostly. We can Prioritize things but we as a group have too much destroyed equipment to be very functional. As for Matt's question we are down to only 5 of us.
Plans - DM Matt Wednesday September 17th, 2008 4:40:16 PM
Arrak smiles and stands, bowing as he leaves the table. He returns in a few minutes with one of his assistants, asking the halfling to retrieve three sets of armor. "Take the ones that look the worst, and try to preserve as much as possible for our friends to take. Our purposes do not require anything more than a few trinkets."
Once the meal winds down, the Knights are left to their own devices until morning. The night is quite uneventful, and fairly silent, aside from anything you do. Arrak is nowhere to be found, having left directly after the meal.
In the morning, fresh and rested, the Knights prepare to leave. Arrak is still not back, though a halfling informs you that he has gone off on an errand. "If you desire anything, I am at your bidding," she says rather annoyedly. It is clear she would prefer to be somewhere else.
[can someone email me on where you are bringing the orb? I missed alot, and all I know is you devised some cave somewhere]
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Wednesday September 17th, 2008 10:04:17 PM
Dwight sleeps sounding in the mansion, dreaming of a refurnished bow, oaks sprouting root and even some begonias in full bloom.
Dwight tries to speak with the disgruntled halfling, adding in the halfling charm though he has nothing in particular to request but offers some thoughts on manicuring trees if she doesn't take any offense.
Arien(HP 67/67: AC: 14 (touch:14) Fly Wednesday September 17th, 2008 10:22:16 PM
Arien makes sure to memorize several teleport spells come morning, replacing higher level spell slots if needed. When the party indicates that they are ready he will teleport the group to the cave.
OOC: Actually the downtime sounds GREAT to me. I've been trying to get downtime for the last several years to scribe spells into my spellbook, something I've only been able to do (apart from the 2 per level for leveling up) once since I've been playing way back in '99.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Thursday September 18th, 2008 8:25:47 AM
Before bed the previous night, Vedik sees to the party's wands, drawing Woldsblood and recharging them somewhat from their heavy use.
In the morning he prays for his spells, and calls upon the gifts of Alemi to enhance his armor and shield. He then casts his normal warding magics.
OOC: Yeah I have a few weeks of magical item crafting to do. The lot of hero's always saving the wold or dying in the attempt. :) At night: 9 Draws of Woldsbood: 4 each (cant fail) 36 drops + 4 from storage. Wand of D. Door +1 charge : 4 drops Wand of Good Hope +2 charges : 4 drops Wand of Deathward (Tratain) +5 charges: 20 drops Wand of Resist Energy (Tratain) +6 charges: 12 drops
In Morning: 1 Draw, 4 drops. Magic Vestment on Armor/Shield : 2 drops 2 drops in storage
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Thursday September 18th, 2008 6:58:36 PM
To the halfling....
" Well, let's see... maybe some tea would be swell?..... "
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Thursday September 18th, 2008 8:02:37 PM
Dwight is ready to return the orb in the morning and then make haste to plateau city.
TratainCurrent Spells Friday September 19th, 2008 6:11:19 AM
In the Morning Tratain takes the group to the Orb chamber to seal away the Orb again. Then after that Task is completed he asks Arien to teleport the group to Plateau City, there the group will Drop off a set of Armor to the Temple of Gargul for Study, and then head to the Fixer Temple to see if they are able to help repair the groups gear.
OOC: The orb chamber is just a place were made to hopefully keep the orb safe while we couldn't carry it around with us. There is a picture linked from our woldipedia page.
Plans - DM Matt d100=90 ; Monday September 22nd, 2008 7:35:29 PM
While Vedik sees to replenishing some of the party's wands, Dwight attempts some small talk with the halfling. The day's stresses seem to have gotten to her, and she gives a loud harummpph! before stalking away. She stops when Monthor asks for some tea. Her back still turned, she seems to shiver, or shudder, a moment, then hurries off to see to the request.
In the morning, you wake to find a lavish breakfast set out for you. Scrambled eggs, toast, steaming hot sausages, and a variety of fruit. A note from Arrak sits neatly folded amid the trays of food:
Friends,
I have already begun some experimenting on this armor, and learned some quite interesting things about this Legion. I shall not say anything yet, so as not to unintentionally guide your own investigations. I find it better to allow ourselves to learn what we can by our own means. There is less chance of missing something that way.
I am off on my travels. I will deliver the armors to the Consortium and Council. The rest is up to you. I hope we shall speak soon. The Sons have not heard the last from us, and that orb of yours is quite dangerous in its own right.
So many tasks, so little time. I fear things will never become easier for you, with the path you have chosen.
Farewell, and good luck.
-A
After breakfast, Arien spends some short time memorizing his day's spells, and the Knights are ready to travel. Soon after, the mage weaves the arcane words that will take you to your next destination. With a flash, and slight tugging sensation, and a spot of queasiness that departs soon enough, Arien's spell ends, and you find yourselves standing in the cave previously prepared to house and protect the demonic orb.
[I assume regular teleport, right?]
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) d20+8=15 ; d4=4 ; d20+8=11 ; Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 2:37:47 PM
As the spell ends, Vedik takes to the air, looking for any obvious signs of tampering, or danger. He circles the cave entrance a few times, then lands.
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 6:02:08 PM
As the group enters the cave Tratain checks to make sure the Spells are still active as he left them. Once he is sure he uses his magic to place the orb back in its resting spot before telling Arien the group is ready to head to the City once again.
Plans - DM Matt Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 7:29:41 PM
Vedik goes airborn to inspect the area, and finds everything as it should be. There are no obvious signs of danger. Meanwhile, Tratain reviews the magical protections set up in and around the cave, and similarly finds them intact. Arien rests briefly from his spellwork, while Dwight and Monthor stand guard over the others.
Finding everything in order, Tratain places the orb in its resting place, and signals Arien to move the group along. The mage begins his arcane chanting anew, and with another flash and incorporeal tug, you find yourselves standing in Plateau City, only a few paces from the location of your former mansion.
"Ack!" you hear a voice call out. Hmargret is standing nearby, looking over the area and pondering the large hole left in the ground from the house's disappearance. "Oh, Masters. It's you. Why . . . Masters!!! Your house! It . . . I . . . we . . . I mean," Hmargret goes into a fit of stuttering. Composing herself, she says, "What I mean to say is . . . your house up and disappeared. It wasn't us, Masters, honest. It just . . . wasn't, all of a sudden!"
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Tuesday September 23rd, 2008 9:23:13 PM
Dwight chuckles slightly to himself as Hmargret tries to disclaim losing the house he was in charge of. Course the truth is just as strange, "We all died and wished for the house, sort of," Despite his thoughts he allows Tratain to reassure Hmargret to whatever degree he sees fit.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Wednesday September 24th, 2008 7:58:24 AM
Once the orb is secured, and stoneshaped into the floor, and the cave entrance is stoneshaped shut again, Vedik breathes easier.
The old dwarf smiles at Hmargret. "Have no fear, I'm responsible for tha little incident. We'r sorry we were unable to return sooner. You musta been worrying constantly! Forgive me?" After that, he continues to more practical things. "Are ya ok? Have ya had a good place to sleep, and some rest since then? Did you have any costs related to the mansion, or your lodging?"
Arien(HP 67/67: AC: 14 (touch:14) Fly Wednesday September 24th, 2008 4:23:49 PM
Arien looks at the hole in the ground for a moment then shrugs while remarking, "Well at least it'll make a nice pond." Then looking at the others Arien continues, "Unless you have a dire need of me I'd like to head to the Star Mage's Guild as there are several spells I would like to add to my spellbook."
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday September 24th, 2008 6:42:57 PM
Tratain looks over at where the house used to be. He says to Hmargret "As Vedik says, It was our fault the house disapeared. Do you have somewhere to stay for a little while until we find or build a new place?"
He says to Arien "We'll send you a message when we find a place to stay, I'm going to bring the Armor to the temple of Gargul. Vedik, why don't you take the others to the Fixer Temple. I can meet you there after, Arien, you'll have to stop by as well or hand anything you need repaired to Vedik assuming we can convince the fixers to help us."
Plans - DM Matt Wednesday September 24th, 2008 7:35:07 PM
Dwight finds Hmargret's machinations quite amusing, and stands by trying to contain his giggles. Vedik takes responsibility for the mansion's disappearance, and the woman frowns. "You did it? I don't see how, Master. You weren't even here! You Masters might be rich and powerful, but some things are just quite impossible." She starts to walk away, continuing her inspection of the area and mumbling to herself, "Made a house disappear . . . making fun of an old woman, that's the real tragedy."
Arien takes his leave and makes for the Star Mages, already beginning to salivate over the new spells he wants to add to his collection. [give anything to Vedik if you like]
Tratain heads for the Temple of Gargul carrying one of the ugly sets of armor, and the others head for the Fixer's Temple, all agreeing to send word to the others as to their whereabouts and goings-on.
[we'll handle the fixers tomorrow, and everyone also post actions sufficient for 2 weeks. If anyone is visting places in the city during that time, speaking to people, etc., also say so and I will try to condense the two weeks into a short number of posts]
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Wednesday September 24th, 2008 8:13:36 PM
One post back...
Monthor runs up to Hmargret and gives her a big dwarf hug.
" Now now... what's this "master" stuff? The only thing Monthor's a master of is his own domaine! "
Monthor follows the others to the Fixer's table (stupid disjunction spell!!! ) and tries to get his gear fixed. Then he'll visit the local drinking establishments and spend some coin there... and try to win some arm wrestling whom ever is silly enough to accept his challenges. Of course, he'll try to right wrongs, protect the weak and helpless, kiss some babies, pet some dogs... etc.. etc,, etc,,,
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Wednesday September 24th, 2008 8:56:33 PM
Dwight heads to the fixers first to see if during the fixing his bow can be refurnished as well. Following that outcome, Dwight heads to the Catacombs for some new supplies and then sets down to the making of some new items.
OOC: I'll have to provide more details in a later post....been an absolute awful day....my job said your position no longer exists (high school math teacher...really!), but we have one math position open in the county (the further away of course) in 6th grade. So I ether go from teaching Calculus/Trig/Algebra to 6th grade math or become unemployed.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Thursday September 25th, 2008 8:24:41 AM
Vedik introduces himself and his companions at the Fixer temple. He ponders if they will recognize his name, if they will believe him, and if that will carry any weight. He will explain to the ranking priest their situation, how the items came to be destroyed, the sheer number of items to repair, and ask them for help. He will offer any remaining drops of Woldsblood he can draw in a day, if there is another who can repair items as he can.
Second priority for Vedik is his crafting, he has 25 more days of that to do. Should the Fixers be able and willing to help to the point that he wont be spending the entire two weeks repairing items, he will craft.
In his 'Free' time beyond the 8 hours a day repairing or crafting, he will seek out those who study lore, and try to find one learned in the ways of architecture and engineering.
OOC: Vedik was one of the early fixers, before they really organized and had temples and such. May carry some weight if anyone from the old days is around. :) There is at least 20 days worth of items to repair, possibly more. Vedik can draw 36 drops a day, it takes 27 drops and 'a day' (likely 8 hours similar to crafting) to fix each item, so Vedik can offer 9 drops a day to the temple if needed. Vedik is looking for a Loremaster mentor, as I want to take that PRC at 18th.
Arien(HP 67/67: AC: 14 (touch:14) Fly Thursday September 25th, 2008 3:57:48 PM
Arien leaves his now defunct magical items with Vedik for repair and heads off to the Star Mage's Guild where he spends the two weeks studying and adding spells to his spellbook.
DM Matt Thursday September 25th, 2008 5:36:33 PM
post will be late tonight, heading to my local game in a minute.
TratainCurrent Spells Thursday September 25th, 2008 7:08:16 PM
Tratain takes the Set of Destoryed Demon Armor to the Temple of Gargul. He tells the priests there that he has brought it there for them to study as is part of the deal the group made at one point to have one of thier comrades returned. He will stay and answer any questions they may ask about the Legion, and return if they ask him too.
During the rest period the group has Tratain will help at the Fixer temple in any way that he can. He will also spend time at the War Cathedral with his fellow Followers of Domi, helping there also in any way that he can.
DM Matt Friday September 26th, 2008 7:18:03 AM
Some of the Knights visit the Fixer's Temple. A few of the oldest recall the name Vedik, and marvel that he is somehow alive again, and apparently now younger than they. All of the Fixers recognize the name Grey Knights. One of the elders immediately calls a meeting in one of the Fixer's halls, and you find yourselves ushered to a long table opposite a group of 10 of the priests.
"We are most eager to provide any help we can," says the man who seems to be their leader. "We know of your deeds, and what you have done for the people here in the city as well as abroad. I had not yet heard of your most recent encounter with the Sons, but I am sorry for those you lost.
"We will attempt to provide as much help as we are able. Leave what you want restored with us, and my priests will do what they can. If you must leave the city again before we are done, you are welcome to leave more with us, and pick up the repaired items upon your return.
"All that I ask is that you remember our Temple. If we should ever have need of your help, I hope you will provide it freely in return for our services here."
[if everyone could talk via email and give me a list of items you want repaired in the priority you want it done, I'll do some calculations over the weekend and list what gets done within 2 weeks]
When Dwight asks about his bow, the priest smiles. "Unfortunately, the ability to fix does not incorporate the ability to alter. We can restore it to its original state - with Alemi's blessing, of course - but we cannot alter its composition or its magical components."
After leaving the Temple, Monthor spends the next two weeks drinking and carousing in a variety of taverns, and generally having a grand old time.
Dwight spends some time crafting [add 2 weeks to whatever you are working on].
Arien spend his time deep in study, preparing new spells to be added to his spellbook.
Vedik spends a few days asking about town for learned men, especially versed in architecture and engineering. At first, the search is difficult, but after awhile, he begins to turn up names here and there. He continues his investigations, hoping to find enough information to decide on the appropriate scholar for his purposes. [I will figure this out asap - didn't you all have a scholar on retainer for the orb or something?]
Tratain first heads to the Temple of Gargul to deliver the armor. "Hmm," muses one of the priests as he examines the set. "Yes, one of our brothers had a dream that someone would come bearing gifts. I can only assume you are he.
"Thank you for this strange delivery. We will see what we can find out about this Legion, and if the offend the Great Lord, we will surely take action.
"But tell me, my son, have you been saved? Have you accepted your impending death and given yourself to the Great Lord? I suggest you spend some time at the temple. One can always learn more of how they can serve Him." As the priest talks, his eyes burn with religious fervor at the prospect of such a powerful new recruit to the temple.
Extracting himself from the conversation as tactfully as he is able, Tratain hurriedly leaves the temple and makes for his brethren of Domi. Reaching that temple, he finds a far more comfortable environment. He spends some time meeting with the priests and warriors there, and helping in the temple's daily activities.
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:58:43 PM
Dwight thanks the priest for the service which he can provide, for his bow and other items.
Aside from a short trip to the catacombs, Dwight spends his time crafting a new bow. [2 weeks...got it]
OOC: the email list for Dwight looked fine. Thanks for doing that, I've still got very little time/energy given the unnecessary chaotic mess my job is currently.
DM Matt d20=16 ; d10=7 ; d4=1 ; d6=2 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+10=12 ; Monday September 29th, 2008 7:10:44 PM
"We can assign a number of our priests to assist in this project," the elder says. "Offhand, I know we have 16 novices available. Let me think . . ." he ponders for a minute. "Yes, we have a few of the more experienced brothers as well. Unfortunately, many of our stronger brothers are out working other projects and cannot be disturbed, but I think we can help you nonetheless.
Over the two week period, the temple provides a total of 26 Fixers, though most are novices, and only one or two are ever available at one time to mend the various magical items. Most of the priests spend their time drawing woldsblood for those strong enough to reverse the effects of the disjunction.
After two weeks, the Fixers have been able to mend a total of 18 of the Knights' items. [I saw Arien's list, but I'll leave it open-ended in case you want to change the order. Just decide which 18 it is before leaving Plateau City]
The elder is quite dejected at the end of the two week period. "I just thought we could get more done," he says sadly. "Well . . . at least if you leave the rest with us, we will be able to mend it all soon enough."
That being resolved, what else is everyone doing during the two weeks? Unless you are all sitting around watching the fixers, you can get plenty of other things done if you like.
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Monday September 29th, 2008 9:58:55 PM
Walking around the outskirts of the devastated city, Dwight finds a stout stick that promises to be the future bow of choice. He sets to work channel, widdling and honing his skill on the wood.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Tuesday September 30th, 2008 9:51:27 AM
Vedik shakes his head at the elder. "Brother, you know as well as I that our work is never finished. But what you have done here is helped us greatly. We will not forget it. Thank you." He extends his hand and embraces the senior cleric.
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday September 30th, 2008 5:30:45 PM
During the Two Weeks that the group spends in the City, along with donating his time to the Cities Temples of Domi, Alemi and Gargul, Tratain also attempts to locate any more information on the Legion in the Cities Libraries. (I also believe the group Hired some scholars to look for information for us. Tratain will try to get in touch with them and see what they have learned if anything.)
Tratain will also Send Message spells to Lord Arrak to see if he has had any new information surface regarding the Son's of Dread. If he has and the Dragon wishes to talk during the time the group is resting Tratain will Windwalk to his Lair to meet with him.
Tratain also wanders the City to see how the reconstruction efforts are going, and helps if able.
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Tuesday September 30th, 2008 9:27:28 PM
Monthor decides that he needs to add a little more "prestige" to his name. Thus, he seeks out the Adventurer's Guild in Plateau City and petitions to be admited to their organization as an initiate.
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Tuesday September 30th, 2008 9:29:22 PM
ooc> I should probably use it's right name.. :-) Monthor seeks to join The Woldian League of Adventurers
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Thursday October 2nd, 2008 11:24:37 AM
Dwights hears mention of Monthor wanting to join the WLA and leads him to the right man. (Been a member of WLA since level 2)
DM Matt Saturday October 4th, 2008 10:49:33 AM
Dwight handles some crafting, and helps Monthor locate the appropriate contacts within the WLA. Arien continues his arcane research, while Vedik assists in the Fixers' repair work. His consolation brings a smile to the elder's face. "True, son, very true. Our work is never done. But what worthwhile work it is! Why, if there was nothing left for us to do, then what would we do?" He shudders involuntarily, "One hesitates to imagine such a perfect world, eh?" he adds with a wry smile. Clapping Vedik on the shoulder, he sees to any final requests of the Knights, then heads for his offices within the Temple.
A few of the Knights pay a visit to the scholars hired to investigate the Legion and the orb. You are directed to an aging man with a short, gray beard. He smiles when you approach and collects a few old, battered tomes, clearly preparing to impart an education.
Clearing his throat, he says, "Erm . . . yes . . . well, it seems this Legion of yours is from a whole other plane altogether. Of course, they used to be far more active in the Wold proper. See here," he flips through one of the musty books and settles on a horrific drawing. What you all now recognize as Legion warriors are depicted standing around a wooden rack with a man tied to it by his ankles and wrists. The man, naked and bloodied, appears to be undergoing some form or other of torture at the hands of the warriors. The old man flips a few pages to show similar depictions of Legion-human relations, then claps the book closed.
"Difficult to look at, I'd say," he mumbles. "So, as I was saying, long, long ago the Legion was quite active throughout the Wold. There were numerous cults worshipping them. In fact, a few such cults were actually able to construct various implements to facilitate travel between the Wold and the Legion's plane.
"Unfortunately for all of us, your she-demon found one of those implements. That . . . orb, as you call it, is actually quite an exciting specimin. For lack of a better name, I have decided to term it an 'inter-planar transition device.' Yes, I think that name is quite apt. You see, it's actually very interesting: the orb, or any other transition device, when properly activated, allows for safe travel to or from the Legion's realm. Why, one could move armies using such a device. Of course, you'd have to work out the force modulation problems such a large portal would cause . . . ." Sensing that he may be losing his audience to the boredom of academic discussion, he clears his throat again.
"Sorry. So, as I was saying, this orb is really just a tool to help the Legion, or anyone else, travel back and forth between the Wold and their plane. Modified properly, it could actually be used for inter-planar travel from a variety of other realms as well. Of course, such travel would only work if the orb were in its proper location. See here." He rustles around and grabs another book, opening it to an odd picture: the orb, or an object exactly like it, sits in the middle of what appears to be a broad basin, possibly some sort of fire pit or open kiln. The caption beneath the drawing labels it The Forge of Erythrain.
"You see . . . well . . . this is the distressing part. See . . . that demon of yours . . . she really didn't know what she was doing with this device. It is . . . well . . . broken. From what I've read, I predict it's going to get more and more unstable until, one day soon, it simply fails." Seeing hopeful faces among the Knights, he quickly adds. "Fails, in this instance, is not a good thing. I don't mean to say it would simply stop working. Well, I guess actually it would.
"You must understand, these devices seem to have been constructed quite ingeniously. Instead of using them to create a new portal each time one is used, these devices are the portals. Or, rather, they house them. There is an open inter-planar portal inside that orb as we speak. The orb's magic is really centered around containment. It holds the portal shut until the user says otherwise.
"So you see, if the orb fails, the portal doesn't go away. The containment does. Then we just have an open portal to whatever plane of existence the orb is keyed to when it fails. And to make matters more frustrating, there is no way to know what plane that will, because that bedamned demon messed the thing up so badly!"
Lowering his head, he mumbles, "Then we're all out of luck."
TratainCurrent Spells Monday October 6th, 2008 3:55:06 PM
Tratain Listens to what the Scholar says and relays the Information to comrades. He tells the Man "We Have the Orb stored in a Forbiddance spell at the Moment. Do you think that will keep it from spilling out any more demons while it is there?"
Tratain will also go speak with Lord Arrak and tell him what they have found out about the Orb, and ask him about what he has learned about with the Son's of Dread. He will also ask his thoughts on what was said about the Orb.
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Monday October 6th, 2008 8:46:38 PM
Dwight ponders what Tratain says regarding the orb. "It's like a dead tree branch, some of them we just have to wait until time makes it fall. Not good in this case. Are there magicks powerful enough that perhaps we could stop time around the orb, to perhap delay the collapse for a few more hundred years or something."
Expecting a 'no' answer, Dwight questions further, "Based on the most recent uses of the portal by the Legion, can we project when the "one day soon" will occur? I'm hoping this is just a tactic used to scare us halflings, and I'll add, its working."
DM Matt Monday October 6th, 2008 10:21:14 PM
The elderly scribe, who introduced himself as Laribe, ponders Tratain's question. He wanders off, mumbling to himself, and retrieves another book from a nearby shelf. "Let's see . . . forbiddance . . . forbiddance, ah! Here it is." Flipping through some pages, he raises an eyebrow and nods. "It might help. That it might.
"Then again, it might not. I think that as long as the orb is intact, the spell will prevent anything from happening. But if the orb fails completely, well, that's a different story. At that point, it's really more of a rip in the fabric of the Wold. It would be akin to you knocking a hole in that wall yonder. A physical passageway, not a magical means of travel.
"I just don't know for sure. The protective spell might still prevent any problems. Or, the failed orb may - and I say may! - not be affected at all. Oh, but it would be interesting to see, I'll say that!"
Turning to Dwight, he smiles. "Stop time? No, I should think not. The best method would be to repair the orb in its original forge. Or destroy it, though that would be a shame to lose such a scientifically valuable find, I'd say."
When Dwight mentions the Legion, Laribe stops. "The Legion, you say? They've been after you? Hmm, that it quite interesting. Maybe . . . oh, I don't know . . . maybe they want the orb back - that demon did steal it, I'd wager - maybe they want it back to fix it and ecure themselves another tool for entering the Wold. Any skilled Legion engineer could repair it at its creation forge. Yes, I dare say that's what they're up to.
"You know, I've been wondering since I was given this research commission: how does the Legion know where the orb is? How would they find you, or it, to get it back? Can they sense it? No matter. It's beyond me, unless I had one of them to study. Or question, better yet!"
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Tuesday October 7th, 2008 2:22:03 PM
Vedik absorbs the information and ponders the next course of action regarding the Orb.
"Do we know where it was forged? I'm reasonably confident I could repair it if we get there. "
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday October 7th, 2008 7:38:29 PM
Tratain waits to see if the scholar has any idea where the Orb was forged, after the son's were dealt with the Orb would have to be taken care of. If the Scholar has no leads as to where to bring the Orb Tratain will attempt to contact Lord Arrak, and ask him about it at the same time as he asks about the Son's.
DM Matt Tuesday October 7th, 2008 7:56:44 PM
Laribe lets out a loud, long sigh. "Heroes . . . ." he mutters. "I never know if it's a lack of sense, or an over-urgency to kill another dragon. They never listen!" Looking up again, he realizes he is talking out loud and gulps audibly. "Um . . . sorry, just ranting there.
"Where was it forged? Well, didn't you notice the book I showed you?" He grabs one of the previous tomes and opens it again to the picture of the orb (or an orb just like it) sitting on some sort of blacksmith's firepit. The caption reads The Forge of Erythrain.
"This," he taps the picture, "appears to be your orb. It sits in what I suppose to be its creation forge, judging from the text here. Now, the name, Erythrain, that's an interesting one. See, it's not the name of any place in the Wold I've ever heard tell of. So I started doing some research."
Heading back to his bookshelf, he retrieves an overly-large book that appears to be an atlas. Returning to the table, he drops it with a wham! and turns the pages to a large, stylized map of the Wold. He stamps a single, stubby finger down in the center, in the area labeled "The Vague Lands."
"As close as I can figure, hundreds of years ago - I'd say at least 600, judging from what authorities I could locate - there was a city-state called Erythrain. It was apparently known the Wold over for its beautiful red marble buildings. The city was located on a medium-sized volcanic island in what is now called the Vague Islands. No other nation in the Wold could find or duplicate the extraordinary red stone mined by the Erythrainians, and the city was quite profitable because of it. As is typical, with great profit came greater greed, and the rulers of Erythrain were constantly seeking to expand their borders, waging war with the other island nations around them. After many years of war, the surrounding nations got quite tired of Erythrain's empire-building, and banded together against their enemy. They devised what they thought was a cunning plan to begin underwater excavation below Erythrain's island, hoping to undermine the city's structural integrity and force it to collapse into itself. Once that was achieved, a traditional assault could be mounted."
Clearing his throat, Laribe stands and begins pacing, as if lecturing in front of a classroom of eager students.
"Unfortunately, the engineers in charge of the project weren't as good as they thought. They dug too much, and ended up undermining the island's volcano, which began to collapse. Once that collapse began, the volcano erupted violently, and the entire island was engulfed. Most of the island sank, including the grand city of Erythrain, and the surrounding nations achieved their goal, albeit not quite the way they had expected.
"Now, the local fishermen down there can still see some of the taller towers of Erythrain underneath the low tide on a very clear, calm day. Some of them claim to hear the city's bells on foggy nights, though this is widely disclaimed as superstition. I can't really pinpoint the city, as there are no reliable maps of the area from that far back, but the locals down there might be a bit more helpful."
Pointing back at the picture of the orb and forge, he continues, "Now, as far as I can tell, the Erythrainians were greedy, but they weren't demon worshippers. I couldn't even find references to the Legion that far back. Instead, I believe some cult or other of demon-worshippers must have used the sunken city to their advantage, constructed a forge, and set to work bringing the Legion's minions into the Wold.
"I therefore suspect that this cult was water-based, or else how would they survive down there to operate the forge? I don't know where they would have put their forge, or how they would have managed it, but I would lay my piddling salary on one thing: it wasn't made from that pretty red stone. From what I read, most of that was ruined by the volcano, so I'd wager the forge would stand out like a sore thumb in that red city."
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Tuesday October 7th, 2008 9:57:29 PM
OOC: That's an awesome map, I had not seen that one before.
Dwight listens as best he can, and later tries to mention to others the Vague Lands might be a good place to build that temple that is also on our ever-weighty list of things to accomplish.
"I have just one more question for now, " Dwight interjects. "We now know this is a portal that opens somewhat sporatically on our end, does the legion likely have a similar orb or controlling device on their end? Based on what we have seen, the legion seems to be able to return by the use of our orb to their plane, is this something that could be duplicated by us? Not that I want to go in blind, but would like to know all of our options....Perhaps we could force the Sons to enter the portal and let them destroy each other."
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Wednesday October 8th, 2008 9:02:29 AM
"Hrmm" the old dwarf scratches his beard. "Well, If we're to travel to these vague lands we may be able to deal with two things at once. They may not know much of Gargul there."
DM Matt Wednesday October 8th, 2008 2:32:06 PM
OOC: I will post later. Just want to point out that I was assuming this is towrad the end of the 2 weeks, and everyone might have gone together to visit the scholar. So if Monthor or Arien want to post, nothing is stopping you.
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday October 8th, 2008 7:52:11 PM
Tratain says "Aye, its possible Vedik. Though having to navigate about under water is probably going to be a pain, we'll probably have to buy some equipment so we can function underwater for a while and possible fight underwater aswell. We should also see what Lord Arrak has to say about it."
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Wednesday October 8th, 2008 8:29:06 PM
From out of the shadows Monthor steps out and stands next to Tratain. A new badge bearing an ornate "W" is now sown on his cape.
" A necklace of adaptation would deal with the breathing issues. We'd still have to worry about the underwater pressure and the coldness. Stabbing weapons are best underwater..... Me read it somewhere... yes, me does read.... "
DM Matt Thursday October 9th, 2008 2:22:17 PM
"Temple?" Laribe chimes in at Dwight. "Oh, I don't know about a Temple in the Vague Lands. Rather godless folk down there. Who would they want to worship?"
"Now, as for opening the portal. It can definitely be opened in its proper fashion by using the orb in conjunction with its creation forge. Placing it in the forge should create a gate to the Legion's realm. As for there being a similar device on the other end, I think the answer there is 'yes' also. These devices, when used properly, should - and I stress should! - transport the user to the location on the target plane near the paired device. In laymens' terms, this orb will bring you to another orb."
Looking askance at Monthor, Laribe mumbles something about "funny pages" not counting as real reading, but is careful not to openly insult the intimidating dwarf.
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Thursday October 9th, 2008 7:41:20 PM
"Very interesting," Dwight thinks for a moment, an uncommon trait for a halfling. "Would jumping through the portal, grabbing the orb, and coming back through essentially end the threat from the legion? I mean, then both portals would behere in the Wold, and should the device ever fail, it would be like a permanent transport from say Plateau City to some other distant place; that we may wish to visit often ( like our new castle ) Or would the close proximity, be similar to putting a bag of holding inside another bag of holding....BAD!?! " As he finishes it seems he speaks of the 'Bad' from personal experience, or perhaps it just a quick flashback from being stuff in a bag just a short few weeks ago.
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 d20=9 ; Thursday October 9th, 2008 8:34:56 PM
The ornate badge becomes a bit more visible and everyone can now see that there are additional letters. The Woldian League of Adventurers monogram (WLA) can be now clearly seen.
Monthor listens carefully to the others convers but likely misses Laribe's banter about the funner pages ( listen check 9).
" The bag of holding thing me'll pass on... Me's already been sent once to see daddy Gargul over a similar trick... {stupid skulls....}"
" Your plan sounds too easy Dwight... maybe if Arien could use a spell to bring us back with both orbs it would work. "
DM Matt Sunday October 12th, 2008 6:24:49 PM
"Hmm," Laribe hums as he taps his chin with a finger. "You are quite astute, my halfling friend. I suppose if you had both orbs on the same plane, they would still function the same, creating gates between themselves. Of course, we have no empirical evidence, but theoritically I don't see an issue. The danger, I guess, would be that if the Legion ever took the orbs back, well, they'd have their portal intact.
"Now, what I was going to say, as a word of warning, is if the two orbs ever touch, the scant authorities I have consulted seem to indicate that both would be destroyed. If, for instance, one were to enter the Legion's plane, and touch the two together, they would likely be destroyed within a matter of minutes. Or, bringing the other one here and touching them would do the same."
Coughing, he continues, "Now, I've noticed that no one asked for my guidance here - more's the pity - but I must say, in my opinion destroying these things would be the best option for all involved. And by all involved, I mean Woldian civilization at large. Of course, history is replete with stories of mortals thinking they can contain such poweful artifacts and use them to their advantage with no ill effects, so by all means, try that course as well if you like." He seems to have taken on a slightly sarcastic tone toward the end of his speech.
VedikCurrent Spells AC 31 (13 touch) HP 214/214 (Wings) Monday October 13th, 2008 9:53:22 AM
The old dwarf frowns at the mention of destruction, both because he'd prefer to keep them, and because he accepts the wisdom of the sages words.
"Would you suspect the other orb to be about the same distance from the portal as what we observe on this end? Could we simply wait for it to open again, and take the fight to them, going through the portal and throwing the orb at the other, then return by our own power?"
DM Matt Monday October 13th, 2008 7:17:31 PM
"Unknown," Laribe mutters, almost to himself. "Oh, sorry, I was only half paying attention. Hrm . . . I do not know for sure, but I suspect that it wouldn't work exactly that way unless the orb were rejoined with its creation forge. I suppose anything is possible. But from what I can tell, this orb of yours isn't operating as it should, due to that silly demon's meddling. Rejoined with its forge, it will function properly, no doubt. But otherwise? I can't say for sure, maybe so, maybe not.
"You see, these orbs seem to function like two ends of a bridge. When both are intact, one transports the user to the other. When one is . . . less than intact. Well, I can't say for sure if you would arrive in the same proximity or not."
TratainCurrent Spells Monday October 13th, 2008 8:31:41 PM
Tratain says "Would we be able to destroy the Orb if we took it to the Forge? Make it so that the Legion couldn't use it anymore to anchor the portal on this side? If so do you have any idea's on how we could go about doing it? The orb is too dangerous to keep intact here, we have to be rid of it forever."
MonthorHit Points:(152 of 155) AC 25 Tuesday October 14th, 2008 8:07:52 AM
Monthor listens intently,
DM Matt Tuesday October 14th, 2008 5:00:43 PM
Laribe sighs, and continues, "Unfortunately, I only know one way to destroy the thing. . . . what a shame, too, such a thing to study! But it is too dangerous . . ." he seems to be half-talking to himself, half-answering Tratain.
"The only way I can discern is touching the two counterpart orbs together. That means activating the orb at its forge, and either taking it through to the other side, or going across, getting the other orb, and bringing it back.
"There may be other ways, but I can't find anything about them."
[sorry for the early post, have some evening appts tonight and may not be home until late]
Dwight hp 99, ac 16 Tuesday October 14th, 2008 10:03:18 PM
Dwight kindly thanks Laribe, and promises to find another topic or additional information to help peek his interesting in the future; which of course implies a future revenue of sorts .
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With the group, Dwight inquires, "So do we have any good leads to the Sons of Dread? I suppose they are the main target, though they are likely to be more ready for us than last time. However I feel I learned a bit as well. Course I just hope i can remember it when needed."
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