Arriving at the Fort (DM SteveK) Thursday April 18th, 2013 11:08:47 AM
Zeoll tells his friends his dreams, and suggests that we have to look for that hill. Once on the road, he casts a couple defensive spells. The liontaur leads the group through field and forest following the elder's directions, using his own natural expertise to guide them toward the hill he saw in his vision.
Restlin asks if they really calling this thing Mr. Spikey? Once again in nature, he relies on those who aren't quite as helpless in it as he to guide them.
Bosk scratches his head about Zeoll's dream. Perhaps we should start by seeing if there is a Mailed Fist outpost around here? A quick search confirms there is not. An even quicker chance meeting with Trella, the old woman, confirms that the group of mercenaries that had taken over the fort were Mailed Fist, "probably the monster's first meal."
Zane sees no reason to hang around here, and with the information about the Mailed Fist, is ready to look for this fort.
Wyaar says that's as good a plan as they are going to get. He heads off with the others. He'll take as close to point as he can with an arrow resting ready on his bow as he peers about.
Beriothian also thinks it sounds good. He asks for any preparations beforehand, as there is no telling when that thing will attack.
Valla doesn't have very good dreams... (nice description by the way!). He wakes and douses his face with water and prepares for the day. The elf takes his place among the group, bow in hand and arrow knocked. He racks his brain briefly thinking of the length of time his flame arrow spell.
........................... The heroes travel a mile through the woods on an abandoned track leading to Quinn's Fort without incident. The sharper members of the Iron Adventurers note a complete lack of forest animals in the area, and soon they get to the ruins. The Fort is on a low hill, cleared of all vegetation 500 feet from the base of the hill, but being abandoned, there are waist-high grasses, shrubs, and saplings on the lower edges of the hill. At the top of the hill, they see the fort has been burned and tumbled, with little remaining.
It is mid-morning on a cloudy day. The Iron Adventurers are currently standing 500 feet from the south side base of the hill on which the ruined Quinn's Fort stands.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Thursday April 18th, 2013 7:49:56 PM
Zane will cast Mage Armor first, (7 hour duration) then Heroism, (70 minute duration) and Resist Energy: Fire (70 minute duration)
"Every thing else I cast is short duration, so I'm as ready as I'm gonna be."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) d20+18=31 ; Thursday April 18th, 2013 9:51:46 PM Well, the good news is that the ground is cleared, and I don't see any gigantic scaly monster patrolling. I think I'll hold of on transforming for the moment... but I don't like that the animals are avoiding this place. If there wasn't a constant danger they would likely have moved back by now.
Beri looks around for signs of what could have scared off the wild life. Perception = 31
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian d20+12=28 ; d20+12=20 ; Thursday April 18th, 2013 11:09:04 PM
Valla peers across the landscape, keeping very aware along with Beri, all his spells are shorter duration. Something tells me its not a firey beast. Else why would it run from flame breathing hell hounds.. just a hunch.
His arrow at the ready, charged with his arcane energy. Valla falls into formation and approachs the fort, looking for any signs of another way inside except the obvious front door. Or if anything is ontop, or peering at the group.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Thursday April 18th, 2013 11:12:34 PM
"Hmm..." Wyaar looks up at the ruins, the cleared space and the silent woods devoid of life and then looks towards Beri. "Beri, think you could get a birds eye view of the place? Fly well out of bow range and make sure nothing is in there waiting for us?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) d20+7=11 ; d20+14=33 ; Friday April 19th, 2013 7:58:32 AM
Restlin looks upon the fort and sees one thing: adventure! The wizard and cleric of Waard claps his hands together, eager to rush towards the danger, kick down the door, and rescue the damsel. He realizes there's probably no damsel, but wouldn't it be great if there was one?
He takes a moment to cast Mage Armor on himself (7 hours) since he's keep on not being stabbed. He approaches with the group, keeping an eye out (perception: 11), but mainly focusing on figuring out what kind of critters common in this area might be making this place a home (Knowledge, local: 33. 31 if geography is more appropriate).
Arriving at the Fort (DM SteveK) Friday April 19th, 2013 9:36:14 AM
Zane casts Mage Armor, then Heroism, then Resist Energy: Fire. He is ready as he's gonna be.
Beriothian sees good news that the ground is cleared, and there isn't a gigantic scaly monster patrolling. Not liking the no signs of normal wildlife, the druid looks around for signs. There does seem to have been the passage of something bipedal and at least Medium sized and recently.
Valla peers across the landscape, keeping very aware along with Beri. Something tells him its not a firey beast or it wouldn't run from flame breathing hell hounds.... The elf is ready for immediate and nasty violence as he looks across the open, exposed ground where the Iron Adventurers would be easily seen by anything that could be observing from the yawning ruins of the fort on the hill.
Wyaar looks up at the ruins, the cleared space and the silent woods devoid of life and then looks towards Beri, suggesting a birds-eye view may be useful here.
Restlin looks upon the fort and sees one thing: adventure! The wizard and cleric of Waard claps his hands together, eager to rush towards the danger, kick down the door, and rescue the damsel. He realizes there's probably no damsel, but wouldn't it be great if there was one?
Bosk and Zeoll remain silent, assessing the open ground and the ruined fort in a commanding view of the surrounding area.
.......................
At the top of the hill, the fort appears to have been burned and tumbled, with little remaining but piles of stone and lonely, broken stretches of wall.
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Friday April 19th, 2013 10:21:57 AM
"Well," says Zeoll, "Misterr Spikey seems frriendly to me. Why don't we just call out ourr halloos and hope he comes out to chat?"
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 53 of 66 Spells Friday April 19th, 2013 10:35:49 AM
Sorry for the missed post. I keep thinking I will post on the morning, forgetting that I am not getting up at 6:00 over break.
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 53 of 66 Spells Friday April 19th, 2013 11:02:15 AM I wish that we were close enough to detect evil before approaching the fort. Zeoll, are you able to get a sign from the birds or whatever it is you look at to tell if something evil is around? I really don't have that many long duration spells, but if we determine there is another group of evil things I will cast magic circle against evil on myself, giving protection to all who are within 10ft of me.
As the group determines if they should proceed forward Bosk casts Chill Touch on himself.
Active Spells ---------------- Chill Touch 8 charges left
Held Action to cast Magic Circle against evil if an identifiable evil monster appears or resistance against fire if a fire enemy appears
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Friday April 19th, 2013 5:32:00 PM
Zeoll says that the secrets of nature are more enigmatic since the Wold changed. Sorry.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Friday April 19th, 2013 11:02:04 PM I can change into an air elemental again so I can fly... but remember, I can't speak in that form and I only have limited transformations each day... if you guys think it's a good idea I'll change forms now.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Saturday April 20th, 2013 11:49:04 AM
"Scouting ahead is a better idea than not. Even if you can't speak you can let us know if something else is up there."
But.. that's not really the Iron Adventurer way is it?
"Eh, let's just charge."
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Saturday April 20th, 2013 6:32:35 PM Cast invisibility on one of you, and then scout a vit maybe?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Sunday April 21st, 2013 7:26:25 AM
"That's a good idea. Beri's not as sneaky as he used to be. If Valla casts invisibility, and I cast fly, we should be able to scout ahead w/o issue...and it looks like Wyaar volunteers! Excellent. Let me know when you're ready."
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Sunday April 21st, 2013 3:05:53 PM
Wyaar gladly volunteers.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Sunday April 21st, 2013 3:47:26 PM "I can go if you want me too, and I can recast fly if needed. Just sitting around is not going to get us anywhere."
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Sunday April 21st, 2013 4:11:26 PM
Guys, now is the day i must leave.and be offline.for a few weeks. Ill be back in early may. So not forever away. But.i.dont think ill be able to post regularly if at all.. Sorry about this.. If someone could sub for me for this short.time id be thankful.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Sunday April 21st, 2013 10:15:41 PM
ooc: that's not too long. Take care Valla, we'll see you soon.
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 d20+21=35 ; Monday April 22nd, 2013 6:18:11 AM
If someone is going to be sneaky, Zeoll will hold off on the shouting HALOOO! and just wait quietly, watching.
Perception 35
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Monday April 22nd, 2013 12:55:43 PM
Bosk watches as Wyaar gets enchanted for his investigation. Briefly he remembers when he was the first one to charge into battle or to investigate, but it seems Gargul and Jancassis have decided to make their followers draw more upon their own powers and less upon the god's. That is not to imply that he considered himself weaker, but rather that he had matured slightly and was beginning to realize that he failed to see his own limitations. Limitations he was sure hard work and proper strategy would remove. A temporary inconvenience.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Monday April 22nd, 2013 5:21:31 PM
ooc:checking in for sheriff report
Planning a Scout (DM SteveK) Monday April 22nd, 2013 5:57:49 PM
Zeoll feels "Mister Spikey" is friendly to me. Why don't we just call out and hope he comes out to chat?
Bosk wishes they were close enough to detect evil. He looks for other methods to scout.
Beriothian volunteers that he can change into an air elemental again so I can fly... but remember, I can't speak in that form and I only have limited transformations each day... if you guys think it's a good idea I'll change forms now.
Wyaar states that scouting ahead is a better idea than not.
Valla suggests invisibility.
Restlin likes Vallas idea.
Wyaar gladly volunteers.
Zane can go anywhere and also cast Fly, so urges action.
........................
Ooc: sorry for the late post and a post that isn't going anywhere, but I don't want the DM to take over and make your characters do things. Who is casting Invisibility on Wyaar? Who is casting Fly on Wyaar? What route/direction/skill rolls is Wyaar using to Scout?
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 d12=6 ; d12+22=23 ; Monday April 22nd, 2013 6:54:52 PM
Zeoll notes that he speaks Auran, if that would help communication with anyone in elemental form.
He is getting antsy, so he sets aside his shield, says a prayer for guidance, and casts his Summon Fey Friends 1 spell as a first level Sorcerer Spell. Rolling randomly, he gets ... d12=6 ... a leprechaun. Note that its CN is two alignment steps removed from Zeoll's NG.
Zeoll bows politely and asks the fellow to please go scout around the top of that hill invisibly, and to come back in time to tell Zeoll what he sees. Diplomacy (with a +2 fey bonus) 23.
DM SANITY INFO ==========
Current Effects: Mage Armor 6 hrs False Life (+12hp) 12 hrs Taur's Try Centaur
Cleric Spells (underlined = cast): 0: guidance, det magic, light, stabilize 1: bane, command x4, elf vision 2: calm emotions, hold person, enthrall, faerie fire.
Sorcerer Spells cast today: 1st lvl: 2 of 8 (mage armor, SFF) 2nd lvl: 2 of 4 (false life takes up two slots) Pick from: 0: read magic, det poison, taur's try, det magic, flare, prestidigitation; 1: true strike, charm person, mage armor; 2: false life
Other daily use abilities: Laughing Touch used 0 of 8 Channel Energy 1d6 used 0 of 8 Hide Away used 0 of 8 Spread the Word: not available Meta Rod of Extend: used 0 of 3
Also used: Scroll of Silent Image
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Monday April 22nd, 2013 7:59:01 PM ooc: as i said, I MIGHT can post from time to time, luckily today is one of those times.
Being my suggestion and all, guess its a bit annoying that I dont have either fly nor invisibility prepared for the day.only an array of damage spells and a few personal buffs. Although I do have a scroll of fly, and using it is no issue if its needed.
ooc2: Since i cant guarantee I can post tmw, whoever Subs for valla, use the scroll or a spell if helps. I dont think its a good time to use the bows power to cast an unprepared spell though. Id petition to use that when absolutely necessary
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Monday April 22nd, 2013 8:17:18 PM I have fly prepared and can cast detect evil on Wyaar if he still wishes to scout ahead, but perhaps we should wait and see what Zeoll is doing first. The cleric glances over at Zeoll, a little curious as he has never seen a leprechaun up close before.
ooc: If Wyaar wants I will cast the spells on him now, but I would prefer to wait and see if we can get the leprechaun to do it first.
ooc2: I can fill in for some of the posts for Valla, but I am not particularly skilled with all magic characters. Perhaps a couple of us could tag team it to fill in for Valla while he is away?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Monday April 22nd, 2013 9:12:10 PM I've never seen a leprochaun in the Wold before, this is a rare treat. I'm guessing this guy has a knack for being stealthy, perhaps Wardd is on our side today.
If we already summoned the leprechaun lets not waste any more time.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Monday April 22nd, 2013 9:38:05 PM
Checking in
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) d20+14=16 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 9:36:31 AM
"Huh...that's a good idea too."
Restlin will wait and see what this leprechaun does. Hopefully Zeoll can negotiate with it. He does ponder what he knows about the creatures for anything that may be useful (knowledge, arcana: 16).
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 d20+12=26 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 2:41:31 PM
Wyaar waves to the fey as it scurries off.
"No need for the spells then." But he'll keep an eye up on the ruins, searching for anything that might react to the presence of the leprechaun.
Perception 26
Doing a Scout (DM SteveK) Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 2:42:49 PM
Zeoll casts a spell and a small man that looks like a mix of elf and halfling with a wicked grin appears; a club in one hand and a bottle in the other. "Who calls on Darby O'Gill of the Little People?" it demands in a surprisingly deep voice. It's eyes narrow at Zeoll. "Oh, ye want to play a game, do ye? Very well!" The little man pulls a swig from his jar and disappears.
For half a minute the Iron Adventurers wait impatiently for the Leprechaun to return (ooc: 5 rounds) and then Darby is back. "Like you said, fair Cradled One, I have come back in time to tell you what I have seen, but I haven't agreed to tell you or your sasanach friends anything at all!"
The gleam is back in his eye. "What will you give me, what unique bit of magic, that is worth it to me to tell you what I've seen? Quickly now, for the spell that binds me has little time left!"
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 4:23:37 PM
Zeoll laughs. "Well played, my frriend! And I have just the game forr you!"
The liontaur takes out a set of jacks that he received as a yule gift a few seasons back:
a small cloth bag containing a game of miniature caltrops and a rubber ball.
"Just the thing forr fun and sporrt!" says Zeoll. "And by 'sporrt,' I mean putting the caltrrops on yourr frriends' chairrs just beforre they sit down!"
"It is yourrs, my good fey. May you use it most joyfully."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 7:17:28 PM If it's a magic item you would like, I have just the thing for you. It will protect you as you journey through this Wold. Beriothian hands the leprechaun a magical glass bracelet he received one Valentine's Day.
ooc: I already removed the magic items from my list in preparation for the upcoming magic item deletion (before someone thought to add that we had a while before we had to finish this), but if you like I can restore my character sheet so you can see the details of the item.
Glass Bracelet A beaded bracelet made of fine green glass beads. When called upon once, it will provide it's wearer a +4 sacred Fort save bonus, then it becomes mundane.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Tuesday April 23rd, 2013 8:38:01 PM
Zane looks at the creature, he would consider thwacking it side the head, but it's not his to deal with. He just draws his sword and prepares for the upcoming encounter....
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Wednesday April 24th, 2013 2:21:26 AM And if you tell us what we wish to know, I'll give you a taur sized flask of flaming gnomish.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Wednesday April 24th, 2013 8:17:35 AM
Restlin has a triangle that will summon a halfling chef to cook a feast for a bunch of people, but he'd like to hold on to it. Still, if none of the other goodies tempt the leprechaun, he'll offer it up.
Leprechaun Bargain (DM SteveK) Wednesday April 24th, 2013 10:34:05 AM
The small man with a wicked grin pulls at his beard in consternation. "Faith and Beggorah! I am trapped, I am, by me own bargain! For I would dearly love the little caltrops, ye ken, but I had said for the unique magic that would satisfy me, and cannot take them as the gift." Neither does the Leprechaun want Beri's beads, "for what would I be wanting more fortitude, the now?", he claims while patting his bottle. And so goes the other offers until Restlin describes the Triangle of the Halfling Chef.
In a trice, the man snatches up Restlin's magical trigangle. "The bargain is struck! On yon hill I be seeing. Running for all I was worth, I made it to the top before having to turn and get back to the Cradled One. But I saw no living thing in the ruins, only the burned timbers and tumbled stone of a dream that died. There still was one area of flagstones near a semi-intact wall that looks to have been inexpertly cleared and a path running down the hill from it. That's all I seen and yer magic be done!"
The leprechaun turns as if to go, then looks back over his shoulder. "Cradled One and followers of the Fickle Lord take heed. I need only a small unique magic to please me, but if you find what you seek, a greater magic bargain will you need. Something that can jump even between the lands." And at that, Darby O'Gill disappears and the Iron Adventurers are left with their decisions and actions.
.....................
The Iron Adventurers are at the treeline of the forest and 500 feet of cleared space (with bushes and small trees) lay between them to the base of the hill. The burned and tumbled ruins of Quinn's Fort are on top of the hill.
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Wednesday April 24th, 2013 11:54:42 AM
"Huh!" says Zeoll.
"Well, thanks Rrestlin! Would you like the jacks, since you lost yourr trriangle?"
The liontaur gives the jacks to his comrade.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Wednesday April 24th, 2013 5:16:48 PM
Zane, decides it's time to go, they've waste enough. He casts a Shield spell, and runs ahead, towards the old fort.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Wednesday April 24th, 2013 7:55:38 PM What a strange little man... well, are we ready to move on then? I'm not sure we can do much more prep, We'll just need to be prepared what ever dangers may be waiting for us unseen.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 d20+12=31 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2013 8:57:37 PM
"It would seem Zane is ready." Wyaar says as the elf prepares himself and then charges on up ahead.
The paladin shakes his head and the moves up after his companion, bow ready and eyes searching.
Perception: 31
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Wednesday April 24th, 2013 11:14:49 PM
Bosk follows immediately behind Zane figuring at to be a good tactical position. Keep your eyes peeled. There may yet be danger the little one failed to detect.
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Wednesday April 24th, 2013 11:44:15 PM
James posting for Valla
The scarred elf watches as the leprechaun vanishes and Zane charges forward. Not sure what else to do Valla follows towards the back of the group.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Thursday April 25th, 2013 8:00:22 AM
"Ah well, easy come, easy go. Still, a good meal sounds pretty nice right now."
The wizard accepts the caltrops. They may need to get out of dodge quickly in the next few hours. He grips the holy symbol on his neck & says, "Waard ol buddy, I'd sure like to know if anything magical is around. Think you could help me out?"
OOC: Detect magic osiron. He'll scan the area they're approaching for anything that registers.
Turning to Valla, he continues, "seriously, this divine magic stuff is so much easier. I can't tell you how many times I lost my eyebrows or stained my hands purple during my apprenticeship."
Restlin is ready to move on. He tries to stick in the middle of the group.
Running and the Hill Top (DM SteveK) Thursday April 25th, 2013 11:07:09 AM Zeoll doesn't quite know what to think of the leprechaun, but gives the jacks to his comrade in compensation.
Zane decides it's time to go, they've waste enough. He casts a Shield spell, and runs ahead, towards the old fort.
Beriothian considers the strange little man, then wants to know if they are ready to move on then?
Wyaar points out that Zane is ready. The paladin shakes his head and the moves up after his companion, bow ready and eyes searching.
Bosk follows immediately behind Zane figuring at to be a good tactical position. Keep your eyes peeled. There may yet be danger the little one failed to detect.
Valla watches as the leprechaun vanishes and Zane charges forward. Not sure what else to do Valla follows towards the back of the group, bow out and ready as ever.
Restlin accepts the caltrops, then has a one-sided conversation with Wardd. The mystic soon figures out that detecting magic while walking has drawbacks. He's only able to scan a 60 degree cone per round, and only out to 60 feet, and only gets a sense if there is magic or not (without strength, type, or exact location). Even worse, it reduces his movement to 1/2, so while Restlin is moving forward at 15' per round (half speed move + action to detect), the others are moving at a run.
In a matter of seconds, Restlin is alone at the edge of the forest with all his companions at least 60 feet away and lengthening their distance.
...................
Some race on ahead (120' feet per 6 seconds), some trot (80' per 6 seconds) some lumber behind (x3 speed for running in heavy armor: 60' per 6 seconds), and some move more slowly. With 500 feet of open space, the Iron Adventurers are soon strung out in a line from tree to base of the hill very, very quickly.
It takes Zane, Bosk, and Valla 30 seconds (5 rounds) to cover the open ground to the base of the hill at a run. Wyaar, in his mithril breastplate, takes another double handful of seconds. And eventually, Restlin, Beri, and Zeoll (who has no problem matching the speed of anyone) also arrive. The mad dash hasn't left anyone winded, but sweat has started among the hairline of some adventurers.
Luckily, nothing jumped out and attacked and no snares were hidden in the tall grasses, especially since to run, Zane, Bosk, Valla, and Wyaar all had to lower their guard to run and would have been absolutely at the mercy of any surprise attack...
Yet the Iron Adventurers are still seemingly alone in the deserted wilderness.
Being at the base of the hill and committed themselves, there is little to do other than move up, this time at a more normal pace with weapons at the ready and capable of defending themselves. The group continues until they are at the top of the hill and the scene is exactly as Darby described.
The heroes see general burned timbers and tumbled stone with grass growing between flagstones that indicate this area has been like this for a while. There is one area of flagstones near a semi-intact wall that looks to have been inexpertly cleared. The floor has a mural of an handsome, armored man receiving a torc from an old woman, with an adoring crowd looking on. The stone nearby is deeply gouged in parallel marks.
Know Nature DC10: Highlight to display spoiler: {They are Animal/monster claws}
Know Arcana or Religion DC20: Highlight to display spoiler: { one mark looks like a bell, one a line with a ball on the end , and one a torc.}
Perception DC10: Highlight to display spoiler: { A well-worn trail leads from the cleared flagstones down the side of the hill to a Cave.}
.......................
Run: A character can run for a number of rounds equal to his Constitution score on the local scale without needing to rest.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist d20+9=16 ; d20+6=7 ; Thursday April 25th, 2013 8:57:23 PM
Zane is oblivious to noticing jack, so she casts a spell, keen edge on his elven curve blade. He doesn't know what, but something here is off, he can feel it in his bones.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) d20+14=19 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+18=31 ; Thursday April 25th, 2013 9:13:54 PM
Beriothian looks around the area with the eyes of a well trained druid. I don't like the looks of those parallel marks. Those look like claws to me, and whatever did that had no problem carving those gashes into stone, and I'm afraid my skin isn't quite as tough as this rock. Hopefully whatever made those grooves isn't the same thing that wore a path down to that cave in the distance, otherwise we could be in for a rough afternoon.
Bosk, I think now might be a good time to reiterate my weekly suggestion that the party stick together instead of splitting up as we race towards our goal. Either way, I will be keeping pace with you as we head down... keeping you a few steps in front of me of course.
The druid gives his large friend a wink.
If we are heading into a cave I think it's about time for me to transform... I'm thinking an earth elemental for the cave, unless someone can suggest a wiser course of action.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Thursday April 25th, 2013 9:37:42 PM
Once at the top of the hill with no immediate danger in sight, Wyaar will stay by the others at the top, but will perform a slow circle in spot for the next several seconds, searching for evil around them. (Detect evil, one round sweep.. think it takes 6 rounds to complete a circle?)
~~~~
Not that it matters in this case, but a mithril breastplate is considered light armor for movement. Movement should be unhindered...
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) d20+4=15 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=24 ; Friday April 26th, 2013 10:52:04 AM
"Well, Beri's right, but look...there's more too it."
Restlin traces some of the carvings in the stone. "Look. This one's a bell. Here's a torc...and that one over there is a...what is that? A line with a ball on the end. Maybe a morning star? Maybe one of those ball in a cup games the kids play when they're too bored to do anything else? Whatever made these scratches is probably intelligent."
Restlin summons a light spell before popping into the cave with everyone else. He heeds Beri's advice and stays close. If the rest of the party is willing to move at the needed speed, he'll recast detect magic again and keep an eye out for any.
Knowledge, Arcana: 32
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian d20+3=17 ; d20+12=18 ; Friday April 26th, 2013 11:48:05 AM
ooc Post Coming
Knowledge Arcana = 17 Perception =18
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Friday April 26th, 2013 11:53:59 AM Perhaps we should check things out first, see if we can figure out what is down there before charging in. However the cleric realizes it is already too late as the others head off towards the cave. He takes his spot, second from the front, and joind the decent. Before we enter, lets scan the area for evil so we can prepare accordingly.
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian d20+11=16 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+11=28 ; Friday April 26th, 2013 12:03:32 PM
James D posting for Valla
Guys, we should listen to Bosk and be prepared for a fight. Beri is correct, those marks are claw marks and I am willing to bet the thing that made them is none too friendly. Do we have any way of telling how deep the cave is? It would be nice to cast some defensive spells before we enter the cave, but considering the the cave in the ring, the Illithid cave, and the cave the witches were casting their spell in were all so large our buffs wore off before battle begun it might be a moot point.
Zeoll uses his nose and tracking ability to see if any creature has been in this area, or on the path to the cave recently. He casts a Taur's Try and a Guidance. He remembers how Mr. Spikey smells, and sees if he can pick up his scent:
Survival / Track 18
Down the Hill towards the Cave (DM SteveK) Friday April 26th, 2013 1:38:34 PM
Zane is oblivious to noticing anything, and prepares by casting Keen Edge on his elven curved blade, feeling something is off, he can feel it in his bones.
Beriothian looks around the area with the eyes of a well trained druid. He thinks it may be about time to transform for combat, and also cautions the others to stick together.
Wyaar will stay by the others, performing a slow circle doing a Detect Evil sweep, but finding no evil auras within 60 and in line of sight. He had an easy time keeping up with the others since he only wears the light gleaming mithril armor!
Restlin sees even more than Beri, tracing out a Bell, a Torc and ... a line with a ball on the end. Whatever made these scratches is probably intelligent! He stays close, summoning a ball of light to go with them to the Cave 500 feet away in the side of the Hill.
Bosk suggests to check things out first, see if we can figure out what is down there before charging in. However the cleric realizes it is already too late as the others head off towards the cave. He takes his spot, second from the front, and joins the decent.
Valla agrees with Bosk to prepare for a fight. Beri is correct, those marks are claw marks and I am willing to bet the thing that made them is none too friendly. He asks several questions as the Iron Adventurers walk down the hill towards the Cave.
Zeoll can pick up that Mr. Spikey has been at the cleared area and has used the path within the past hour!
...................
The Iron Adventurers head down the worn path towards the Cave, some eager to come to grips with something on this silent hill and some urging caution.
Strangely enough, it is Restlin and his ball of Light that is leading the way to the cave, with Bosk, Zane, Valla, and Wyaar all trailing behind!
ooc: Attached is a map. Please post ending location of your PC at the bottom of your post. If Player does not give an exact square or if the square cannot be reached in one round, the DM will choose location based on my best guess to intentions of the Player.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Friday April 26th, 2013 8:04:09 PM
Zane weaves a spell as he moves forward to AF,12. He shimmers and blurs as he casts Blur on himself, keeping his blade ready, "Might wanna let me get up towards the front, unless you expect us to get snuck up on from behind."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Friday April 26th, 2013 8:27:12 PM
Beriothian trudges on, happy with his position right behind Bosk. He keeps pace, not putting any extra space between them. ooc: I'll give exact coords when Bosk moves Also, I believe I am now transformed into an earth elemental, but if not I do so at this time
Bosk AC: +1 for Haste (27/13/24) CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Friday April 26th, 2013 11:18:29 PM
Bosk examines the countryside around him to determine what the surrounding landscape is like, thinking that it might be wiser to march two by two as opposed to a single file line in order to allow of the combat hardened players room and line of sight should an enemy come out of the cave.
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Friday April 26th, 2013 11:22:27 PM
The scarred elf keeps his position. Although he doesn't have the best line of sight he figures it wiser to have the more heavily armored meat shields stand in front of him while prepares his spells.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Sunday April 28th, 2013 9:04:10 PM
ooc:umm.. looks like we are only adjusting our marching order this round
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Monday April 29th, 2013 7:42:17 AM
Wyaar wil move t the front
------
Could have sworn o posted. Can't see the coordinates on my phone
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 d20+20=34 ; Monday April 29th, 2013 10:05:41 AM
Zeoll will stay in the back, or next to last. The DM can position me, thanks!
Do we have a light source? Is it dark in there?
Zeoll looks and smells and listens, after saying a little prayer: Perception 34.
Cave and Monster! (DM SteveK) Monday April 29th, 2013 11:53:46 AM
Zane and Wyaar adjust themselves to be at the front.
Restlin still has his light. (ooc: upon which object did Restlin cast the light? Per the Pathfinder spell, it must be an object, not just a floating globe.)
Beri wild shapes himself into an earth elemental. (ooc: using Elemental I or II?, different sizes, powers etc. please specify.)
At Bosk's suggestion, the group realigns itself into a 2-by-2 walking order with Zane and Wyaar, then Bosk and Valla, then Beri and Restlin, with Zeoll taking up the rear.
Zeoll sniffs the air, the distinctive smell of the Monster they saw in the Wood is getting stronger as they approach the Cave.
It takes a minute for the Iron Adventurers to reorganize and finish walking down the hill and are now on an even level with the Cave. Restlin's light and the daystar shines enabling the front heroes to see the Cave goes back into the hillside, at least 15 feet, but probably much more.
The group doesn't get any closer than 20 feet of the Cave entrance before one of the boulders on the hillside transforms into the large, green, spike-covered, tail-lashing, torc-wearing monster that the group saw in the Woods!
It roars and waves its claws in the air, spikes growing and receding all over its body, and slashes the air at anyone who takes a step towards the Cave!
................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 40 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 40 rounds (ie 4 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 30 rounds
Please reduce spell durations accordingly (example) There are 40 rounds left on Zane's Shield spell
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Monday April 29th, 2013 12:30:31 PM
Wyaar holds up a hand to the group behind him, "wait, do not charge. Let us see if it is evil".
Move action detect evil on Mr Spikey. Equivalent of full three round study per Paladin SA
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Monday April 29th, 2013 4:50:54 PM
OOC: Restlin will cast it on his dagger. It's got a grip, doesn't weigh much, and it's easy to throw.
Restlin will wait for Wyaar's word. If it comes back that this thing should die, he'll cast Black Tentacles directly under it.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Monday April 29th, 2013 5:27:07 PM
ooc: read carefully. It... slashes the air at anyone who takes a step towards the Cave! let's take a step step back (literally) and show it we aren't being aggressive and aren't entering the cave... and Wyaar, consider holding off casting for, it make your spell as a sign of aggression.
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 d20+40=49 ; Monday April 29th, 2013 6:35:10 PM
Clearly, Zeoll thinks, this is the time to use some bardic music to Fascinate the fellow! But wait! Zeoll is no more a bard! Ugh.
He does tell everyone to NOT attack! "Therre is everry rreason to think this is or may be a frriend." he says softly.
He creeps up to within 25 feet -- not close enough to prompt an attack. Then he tries out all his languages, speaking soothingly: Common, Liontaur and Tauric; Celestial; Fey: Sylvan; Terran, Auran; and Giant.
If the creature understand any of those, Zeoll will say a prayer and then talk to it: "Excuse us, good creaturre. We only want to talk with you. We arre frriends."
He'll continue in this vein in an effort to befriend the creature.
Diplomacy 29 (oops, wrong mod on the roller sorry), 30 if it is a magical beast.
DM SANITY INFO ==========
Current Effects: Mage Armor 6 hrs False Life (+12hp) 12 hrs Taur's Try Centaur
Cleric Spells (underlined = cast): 0: guidance, det magic, light, stabilize 1: bane, command x4, elf vision 2: calm emotions, hold person, enthrall, faerie fire.
Sorcerer Spells cast today: 1st lvl: 2 of 8 (mage armor, SFF) 2nd lvl: 2 of 4 (false life takes up two slots) Pick from: 0: read magic, det poison, taur's try, det magic, flare, prestidigitation; 1: true strike, charm person, mage armor; 2: false life
Other daily use abilities: Laughing Touch used 0 of 8 Channel Energy 1d6 used 0 of 8 Hide Away used 0 of 8 Spread the Word: not available Meta Rod of Extend: used 0 of 3
Also used: Scroll of Silent Image
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Monday April 29th, 2013 7:28:04 PM
Valla nods at Beri's Wisdom and does hi best to keep Zeoll from moving towards the cave, not stepping aside for to allow the taur to pass. Best say what you want from back here. Let's not provoke it.
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Monday April 29th, 2013 7:34:03 PM
Bosk also listens to Beri's suggestion and takes a 5ft step step back and to the West, hoping to prevent Zeoll from moving towards the cave and get the creature to relax a little more. I think Beri is right for once. Perhaps advancing forwards is a little premature at this time if we wish to make friends.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Monday April 29th, 2013 7:35:08 PM
Zane considers trying to cow the creature, but he guesses the others might not like that.... Zane refrains from attacking, but he does prepare to counter attack if the critter advances or attacks....
Zane will also repeat Zeoll's question in Draconic and Woldian Below.
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Monday April 29th, 2013 8:58:07 PM
"Surre, surre," mutters Zeoll, following the guidance of his friends. "I wasn't planning on getting too close anyways."
Cave and Monster! (DM SteveK) Tuesday April 30th, 2013 11:02:38 AM
Wyaar holds up a hand to the group behind him, "wait, do not charge. Let us see if it is evil". The paladin concentrates only upon the monster, and sees that there is no great evil in the monstrosity.
Restlin will wait for Wyaar's word, readying a Black Tentacles spell.
Beri offers a tactic, to back off and show they aren't entering the cave. The druid notes he is too late to caution Wyaar, the paladin has already cast his spell.
Zeoll clearly calls for the others to NOT attack, in fact, there is everr rrason to think this is or may be a friend. He moves forward, but still behind the line of warriors. The liontaur doesn't know what the monster will consider a line is crossed, but if he is behind the lead heroes, it should be safe enough. Zeoll tries to speak with it using his considerable language skills.
Valla nods at Beri's Wisdom and does hi best to keep Zeoll from moving towards the cave, not stepping aside for to allow the taur to pass.
Bosk also listens to Beri's suggestion and takes a 5ft step step back and to the West, hoping to get the creature to relax a little more, and also reinforcing the edict to not aggravate the creature.
Zane considers trying to cow the creature, but he guesses the others might not like that. Still, he refrains from attacking, only Readying a thrust if the critter advances. Finally, the dark elf tries a few more languages. ................
The Iron Adventurers adjust themselves, several moving back, Zeoll moving to the flank and forward the better to speak with the creature, and Zane holding his ground, weapon at the ready for an immediate strike.
The large, green, spike-covered, tail-lashing, torc-wearing monster bobs his head up and down when Zeoll speaks in common, but none of the other languages seem to affect it.
" ld kjf s goi[ a; algr p-= ai]=ba lj30 59=- 03y a ljga [=-ni0 09i [io rgqeg0i pqobk ]qpi=aqu!!!" it roars, growls, and clicks.
It continues to flail its arms, and Zane realizes a disturbing fact. His weapon is not in range of the monster, but the monster has long enough arms and tail to strike Zane easily!
................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 41 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 41 rounds (ie 4 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 31 rounds
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Tuesday April 30th, 2013 3:04:10 PM
Restlin notes the head bob.
"Wait, common? You speak common? DO YOU UNDERSTAND US?" A bit more quietly, he continues. "Zeoll, say something nice to it. Tell it that it's spikes complement its scales and reptilian charm."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) d20+1=14 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2013 5:26:16 PM
Beriothian tries to determine the language the creature is speaking in. Acting on Restiln's comment that the creature appears to understand Common, tries writing on the ground, hoping to find a method of communication that will work.
Nod if you can read this.
ooc: knowledge linguistics = 14
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Tuesday April 30th, 2013 5:32:37 PM
"That's what I alrready did, frriend Rrestlin," Zeoll complains. "Let me think about this!"
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Tuesday April 30th, 2013 7:05:39 PM "We really need to hurry this up. Playing one fish, two fish with this guy is burning up time."
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Tuesday April 30th, 2013 10:02:23 PM
James posting for Valla
You fools are wasting time and probably just irritating it. For a while Valla begins to miss the quiet of the Illithid's temple. Pulling a scroll from his pocket he calls out to the creature, If you can understand me, I have a scroll of tongues that will allow me to communicate with you. Please give me a sign if you will allow me to cast the spell.
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Wednesday May 1st, 2013 12:07:05 AM
Bosk sits in quiet contemplation as he tries to decipher the unknown language.
ooc: Sorry for the short post. I tried treating this as a cypher, but it has beaten me if there is one. Cool fact, yf you use the brackets to break it into smaller segments the first part can read "To her I was" and treating the brackets like a new cipher with a mathematical component you can get the word seductive, and I have gotten some interesting sentence fragments dealing with claws or some perfect wrong, but I cannot make it all fit together and think it is a bunch of interesting coincidences.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Wednesday May 1st, 2013 12:57:20 AM
"The beast is not evil... if we do not have to fight it, we should not. It seems intelligent enough to perhaps let us pass peacefully if we can find a way to communicate with it."
~~~~
James.. you have have too much time on your hands with school out
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Wednesday May 1st, 2013 4:59:09 AM
Zeoll grins at Valla. "Valla, you arre my herro. Please do use the scrroll."
Cave and Monster! (DM SteveK) d8+6=8 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2013 12:15:56 PM
Restlin notes the head bob. "Wait, common? You speak common?" Mr. Spikey again nods his head!
Beriothian tries to determine the language the creature is speaking in, but it is a forlorn hope. The druid also tries writing on the ground, and Mr. Spikey again nods!
Zane is getting antsy, worrying about his Shield spell expiring before he gets into combat.
Valla pulls a scroll of Tongues and tells the creature that they'll be able to talk. Mr. Spikey again nods yes and then waves his arms about. (Pantomime Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Mr Spikey is agreeing with the spell and warning the group about getting to close to him at the same time.}
Bosk sits in quiet contemplation as he tries to decipher the unknown language.
ooc: LOL! I didn't know I was that good. I literally just raked my hands over the keyboard a couple times! :-)
Wyaar assures the others that the beast is not evil, and suggests that if we do not have to fight it, we should not.
Zeoll grins at Valla. "Valla, you arre my herro. Please do use the scrroll."
.................
At Zeoll's urging, Valla uses the scrolled spell as Mr. Spikey approaches, continually looking about to keep all the heroes in his line of sight.
Tongues is a touch spell, and Valla soon finds out that there are so many spikes that are growing and receding that it is impossible to find a safe spot. The elf comes away with a bloody hand, but the spell is complete! (Valla takes 8 damage from the barbs)
And it still does nothing.
Now that is very strange! Tongues spell should allow Valla to speak any language with any being, and yet he is unable to do so! Valla is able to catch a couple of words, but not anything close to a phrase. There must be something else that is involved with Mr Spikey. He understands Common, even written, but is only speaking complete gibberish!
";lk [a[oi name ;lka[=]f-34 w[pgeri fist 'k56[jwgbt[ damn [qiojv]eqpk 'w4 ] -0bpoegm guard qgrk]b w ;" growls the monster!
................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 42 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 42 rounds (ie 4 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 32 rounds
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Wednesday May 1st, 2013 3:35:17 PM
Valla looks puzzled. The spell seems to have only partially worked, I am not sure why. Are you you trying to say you are a member of the Fist and that you are guarding the cave? Are you able to write your messages to us in the dirt using your tail? Also, do you mind if I have the minotaur over there heal my hand? I'm afraid those spikes on your tail hurt quite a bit.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Wednesday May 1st, 2013 5:20:42 PM Perhaps the problem is that you are able to clearly speak and understand common, but our friend physically can't speak for some reason. Perhaps this is the perfect time to use our blessing of the Edge... though we've had bad luck with this int he past. I should be able to find out why they can't speak and what they are trying to tell us before the spell wears off.
ooc: again, I had cleaned up my character sheet for the upcoming great magic item removal, but I can restore my character sheet to the previous version if needed. Blessing of the Edge
Wednesday February 2nd, 2011 5:05:52 PM Player can do either one of these options, whenever they want. They can read the spirit of any one creature, once. If they know the creatures real name, the duration of the conversation is much extended. The questions will be answered by the spirit in a neutral manner, despite the alignment of the creature and ones weakness can be discovered as well as other things, but the spirits knowledge is limited to what the creature being read would know normally. (Six rounds or six minutes if the creatures true name is known.) OR The characters spirit will transcend their body and travel to The Edge in a flash of an instant. There, they can over look the cosmos of time and balance and ask any one question, as profound or mundane as they desire and receive an immediate answer, that is as correct as possible, depending on how the question was asked.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Wednesday May 1st, 2013 6:13:20 PM
Zane just shakes his head. "Lets make this easier, nodding means yes, shaking means no. Understand that? Are you guarding this area to keep the hellhounds out? Are you guarding this area to keep the hellhounds in? You will remember we killed the hounds as best we could, we want to stop them. if we go in there, can we close off the entry way they are using?"
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 d20+12=25 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2013 9:43:59 PM
"Excellent idea, Zane." Wyaar says and takes his eyes off Mr Spikey a moment to watch their surroundings to be sure they are still the only ones here.
~~~~
Perception: 25
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) d20+14=19 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2013 10:14:28 PM
"Hmm...this smells like a curse," thinks the wizard aloud. He ponders what could cause this & if there's anyway to undo it. Failing that, he tries to figure out what this thing could be.
Knowledge, Arcana: 19 (phooy)
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Wednesday May 1st, 2013 11:07:50 PM
Bosk curses his luck. A curse? I have prepared the remove curse spell almost every day since I learned it, and because of those hounds I switched it out for the day. If necessary I could prepare it tomorrow. As he say this he kicks at the dirt trying to think of something ingenious to do.
"Talking" with Mr. Spikey (DM SteveK) Thursday May 2nd, 2013 11:06:29 AM Valla looks puzzled. The spell seems to have only partially worked, he is not sure why. The scarred elf tries to give the monster 'yes' and 'no' answers. Each question comes with a nod or shake of the spikey head. Are you you trying to say you are a member of the Fist and that you are guarding the cave? "YES" Are you able to write your messages to us in the dirt using your tail? "NO" Do you mind if I have the minotaur over there heal my hand? "NO"
Beriothian thinks perhaps this is the perfect time to use our blessing of the Edge... though we've had bad luck with this in the past.
Zane just shakes his head. "Lets make this easier, nodding means yes, shaking means no. Understand that?" "YES" Are you guarding this area to keep the hellhounds out? "NO" Are you guarding this area to keep the hellhounds in? "NO" If we go in there, can we close off the entry way they are using? Mr. Spikey thinks a second or two, then nods his head, "YES"
"Excellent idea, Zane." Wyaar says and takes his eyes off Mr Spikey a moment to watch their surroundings to be sure they are still the only ones here. It does look like they are still just alone with the Spikey Monster.
Restlin thinks this smells like a curse. It would have to be powerful, and it does warp the normal limitations of a Curse spell, like there is some sort of magical anomoly in the area. The monster itself... thinking quickly, Restlin can't come up with an immediate answer, but he does get a clue that if he sits and thinks, he'll come up with the answer (ooc: if he thinks for a minute of time and takes 10 on all his Knowledge skills).
Bosk curses his luck. A curse? Thinking about it, the minotaur realizes that it makes sense, even though the group has not checked for any magic about the torc-wearing monster. He thinks hard and an image flashes in his mind about the cleared space and carved rock on the hill above...
................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 43 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 43 rounds (ie 4 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 33 rounds
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Thursday May 2nd, 2013 12:45:09 PM
Noting the group's success with communicating, he leaves them to it. He feels like he's on to something...it's just out of his grasp. He decides to hunker down and think his way through this...
(Taking 10. Knowledge, Arcana, local and history will be 24. Religion is 18, Planes is 23.)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Thursday May 2nd, 2013 5:51:44 PM I have detect magic I can use... also, I'm going to use gift of the edge now. Besides, with Heather no longer with us I fear the Edge may forget the blessing she bestowed on us. I don't have real long, so let me know what you want to have asked... Probably smartest to start with asking what our friend was trying to tell us, and if there is a way they can communicate to us directly.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Thursday May 2nd, 2013 7:21:15 PM "Are you here to stop the crossing of the hellhounds and other creatures like them? Are you here on purpose? Are you trapped here? Will you assist us in finding the cause of the hellhounds?"
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Thursday May 2nd, 2013 8:40:05 PM
"Is there a way to turn you back to as you once were?"
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Thursday May 2nd, 2013 9:55:34 PM
Zeoll agrees that is sounds like a curse. He ponders ways around this puzzle.
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Friday May 3rd, 2013 10:12:34 AM
Thinking back to the clearing on the hill, the image of the mural flashes in Bosk's mind. Were you by any chance one of the Children of Chaos? Did you scratch the image of the bell and torc up on the hill?
James posting for Valla d8=4 ; d8=4 ; Friday May 3rd, 2013 10:21:36 AM
Valla moves over toward the minotaur and holds his hand out to the horned cleric. The horned cleric places his wooden hold symbol against the wound and begins to start praying when he suddenly stops. [b]I almost forgot, I have some magic cookies you can eat that will heal you and allow us to save our spells should we have to face the hounds again.
As Bosk tucks the bloody holy symbol back into his belt Valla eats the cookies and feels the blood begin to stop dripping from his hand. A moment later he watches as new skin begins to weave itself over the crimson spot and in a moment it is good as new.
ooc: Two cookies used, Valla is fully healed.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Friday May 3rd, 2013 5:30:04 PM
ooc: checking in
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Saturday May 4th, 2013 8:36:51 AM
Zeoll begins to understand that the creature can comprehend speech? Just not speak it?
"I think we should make surre this crreaturre rreally does underrstand that we arre frriends," he says.
To the creature directly, Zeoll says, "Good sirr, my comrrades are currious, and have lots of questions, but I want to make something verry clearr. We arre frriends. We arre herre on a mission that I think involves helping you. Herre, let me explain."
Zeoll glances at Bosk, but then launches into a condensed version of their mission. The shard of the Chaos Bell. What they think about the creature in town. The Children of Chaos and how they figure in. Etc.
"Talking" with Mr. Spikey (DM SteveK) Saturday May 4th, 2013 11:38:44 AM
A minute passes before Restlin and Beri come back with their answers. ........................
Restlin notes the group's success with communicating and leaves them to it. He feels like he's on to something...it's just out of his grasp. He decides to hunker down and think his way through. It takes a minute, but Restlin realizes that the creature, at least outward appearance, looks like a Barbed Devil (ooc: Restlin knows everything about Barbed Devils from the Bestiary). He also notes the Torc around the monster's neck is similar to both the Torc in the mural within the ruined fort AND the scratched torc symbol. The monster must be the Mailed Fist leader who is wearing a cursed magic item!
Beriothian activates his Gift of the Edge. He gets no suggestions from the other Iron Adventurers, so asks; "What is our friend trying to tell us, and if there is a way they can communicate to us directly." As familiar with Zeoll, the druid's spirit is whisked away and in a trice, Beri feels as if he is standing on the Edge of the Wold. Winds buffet him along with wisps, mere echoes, of conversation from the past, the present, and the future. He casts his question out of the Edge and waits.
A voice sounding like a younger Beri whispers. " We just saw a man's head blow up without us having any chance of saving him or preventing this destruction."
Another voice shouts. "Run away, kiddies, you can't survive in Rum!"
A voice cajoles. "Eating greens is a special treat, it will make you grow big and strong like a sailor."
And then a conversation whispers about the druid. Woman: Take this torc, Sir Maran, as a token of your lordship of Quinn's Fort, and protector of Threshold. Man: Thank you, Trella, I will wear it proudly. (pause, then incomprehensible roars, growls, and clicks) Woman: Fool! Now you are my guard as long as you live. Never able to speak to any creature, you will guard this Cave from anyone save me for as long as you live!
Beri blinks and he is back in his body.
Zane continues with his questions. "Are you here to stop the crossing of the hellhounds and other creatures like them? NO Are you here on purpose? YES Are you trapped here? YES Will you assist us in finding the cause of the hellhounds?" YES (and the monster draws in the dirt, jerkily, difficultly, until there is a Torc and a line with a ball.)
Wyaar helps with another question "Is there a way to turn you back to as you once were?" YES
Bosk heals Valla with a couple of magical cookies and asks more questions. Were you by any chance one of the Children of Chaos? NO Did you scratch the image of the bell and torc up on the hill? YES
Zeoll asks even more questions. The creature can comprehend speech? Just not speak it? YES "Good sirr, We arre frriends. YES, the creature nods. Then the liontaur launches into a condensed version of their mission. As soon as Zeoll mentions the Bell and Shard Mr. Spikey capers about and begins nodding fervently. YES< YES< YES< !!! And Mr. Spikey points into the Cave!
As any Iron Adventurer takes a step towards the Cave, Mr. Spikey stands and roars, and threatens anyone making any movement towards the Cave. .....................
The Iron Adventurers, especially after Restlin and Beri tell what they have discovered, are convinced they have all the pieces to the puzzle of Threshold. The monster is actually the Mailed Fist leader Sir Maran, who was turned into a guardian creature who can't speak by a Cursed Torc given to him by.... Trella of Threshold! And though unwilling, Sir Maran the Monster is still compelled to guard the Cave where he claims holds the Shard that is powering the curse and magical anomoly around Threshold!
There are a few loose ends, like how to end the Curse without killing Sir Maran, is Trella a pawn or Player, and what do the hellhounds have to do with all of this, but everything else makes sense!
................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 53 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 53 rounds (ie 5 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 43 rounds
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Saturday May 4th, 2013 12:24:36 PM
"Hmmm.." Wyaar considers all that has been said. "If we stay away and make no move to enter the cave will your curse allow me to subdue you at a distance?"
He figured its a long shot, but you never know.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Saturday May 4th, 2013 1:30:47 PM
"I don't know about you folks, but I'm all for heading back to town and 'convincing' Trella to undo this nonsense. I know we have a mission and all, but this is just wrong.
"You there, Mr. Spikey! Does Trella have something to undo this curse on you?"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Saturday May 4th, 2013 6:06:25 PM Guys, from what I saw she was no pawn. She reveled in capturing Sir Maran. I agree we need to do what we can to free him from her clutches, but let's not rush into this. I would hate to see sharing the same fate.
Beri's mind goes back to the catacombs under Hook City, where he was briefly possessed by the spirit of a powerful wizard after touching a cursed necklace. Had a magical member of the IA been caught in that trap things would have been much worse for the party... perhaps for all of Hook City.
James posting for Valla Saturday May 4th, 2013 9:37:55 PM
Valla scratches his head. Any idea what the line with a ball on it represents?
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Sunday May 5th, 2013 8:23:02 AM
Zeoll guesses: "The 'ball' is not a ball, it is a cirrcle, and it rreprresents the torrc. It means the currsed fellow is on a leash. He can help against the hell hounds, but he can only go so farr, then he is at the end of his leash."
Zeoll suggests that subduing Trella and then charming her is a good way to get her to lift the curse.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Sunday May 5th, 2013 8:33:08 PM "She may have cursed him, but if so, she's a lot more powerful than us I think. What we need to do is trick her. Only a couple of us return to the village, looking like we got our butt kicked, the others either sneak in or invis in, and we spring the trap on her once she shows her hand."
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Sunday May 5th, 2013 11:39:48 PM
Bosk thinks for a moment, hoping to come up wit a plan before leaving, unless the group can think of a way to enter today and minimize the chances of being discovered. Sir Maran, is there anything in the curse that would prevent us from damaging or destroying the torc that binds you? Would a spell along the lines of remove curse be sufficient to safely restore you? If not, would you be opposed to letting us restrain you so that we can safely enter the cave without being attacked or hurting you? Tomorrow I could prepare some shape stone spells that could keep restrained with hurting you, or if you prefer, I have much alcohol on me. Perhaps you could drink enough to remove the threat?
"Talking" with Mr. Spikey (DM SteveK) Monday May 6th, 2013 10:21:56 AM Wyaar considers all that has been said. "If we stay away and make no move to enter the cave will your curse allow me to subdue you at a distance?" The monster pauses, and considers, and then shrugs his shoulders in an unmistakable gesture. Sir Maran just doesn't know.
Restlin is all for convincing Trella to undo this nonsense. "Does Trella have something to undo this curse on you?" Sir Maran responds with a vigorous head nod YES, and again points into the Cave.
Beriothian tells the others that the Edge revealed that Trella is no pawn, and rushing about may put the heroes in the same fate as Sir Maran.
Valla scratches his head. Any idea what the line with a ball on it represents?
Zeoll guesses about the ball and stick. The Torc is obvious now, and the ball and stick should be the same. The liontaur suggests that subduing and charming Trella is a good way to get her to lift the curse.
Zane suggests that Trella is more powerful than she let on earlier. Maybe tricking her would do the job?
Bosk thinks for a moment, hoping to come up wit a plan before leaving, unless the group can think of a way to enter today and minimize the chances of being discovered. Sir Maran, is there anything in the curse that would prevent us from damaging or destroying the torc that binds you? The former Mailed Fist mercenary sadly nods his head. YES Would a spell along the lines of remove curse be sufficient to safely restore you? NO Would you let us restrain you so that we can safely enter the cave without being attacked or hurting you? YES Perhaps you could drink enough alcohol to be removed as a threat? Shrug, then YES ................
The party is evenly divided, questions, binding, and returning to town. They are going to have to come up with at least a majority agreement.
................. Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 53 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 53 rounds (ie 5 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield): 43 rounds
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Monday May 6th, 2013 10:43:37 AM
Zeoll lays out some options.
(1) Subdue good Sir Maran here and investigate the cave. We may be able to get him drunk, or shoot him with blunt arrows from afar off, or use magic to control him. We might be able, with his cooperation, to tie him up or bind him somehow.
(2) Try to overpower and subdue, or maybe trick Trella into removing the curse.
Zeoll says that it seems to him that with the shard, it may be more possible to defeat Trella.
He asks the poor cursed guardian, "Will Trella somehow know if anyone enters the cave, or takes anything from within?"
He thanks Maran for his patience.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Monday May 6th, 2013 3:43:50 PM
"Why would she send us here if she has this beastie guarding it? Was she hoping it would kill us? I mean he looks tough, but there are a lot of us. I've come to peace with the fact that I don't scream 'natural born killer' but we're packing a minotaur!
"Regardless, Mr. Spike...err, Maran indicated what we need to break the curse is in there. That's more important to me than revenge right now. Has anyone asked if he would stand aside and let us past? I'd hate to leave him helpless with horse-sized hellhounds running around."
SteveK: It is evident that the curse forces Sir Maran the beast to defend the Cave. He can't stand aside.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Monday May 6th, 2013 7:18:07 PM "Well, get him a drink, then when he's not looking, knock him out."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Monday May 6th, 2013 7:36:22 PM Getting our friend drunk is a novel idea, but I'm against anything so barbaric as the blunt arrow idea. Seriously, we're better than that. How about we simply ask our friend whether we stand a chance against Trella, or if she has a specific weakness.
He turns to address Maran again. Marnan, you know the situation better than us. Is our best course of action a direct assault on your captor? Would we want to attempt to get the shard before stopping her? Do you know of a weakness of hers we should be seeking out before attacking? And in the picture you drew, does the torc represent you, and the line and ball the relative location of the docs? And the hounds important in all this?
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Monday May 6th, 2013 9:07:58 PM
Bosk removes a gallon of Ale from from his bag and set it in front of him. I have plenty of ale here whenever you are ready. As soon as these guys are finished with their questions I will bring it as close to you as I can. The horned cleric waist patiently glad to see that alcohol is once again the solution to life's problems.
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Monday May 6th, 2013 9:12:07 PM
James posting for Valla
Valla thinks about all the clues the group has received so far and ventures a guess. Is the symbol looking like a ball on a stick the an item that can remove the curse from you? Is it hidden inside of the cave?
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 d20+14=21 ; Tuesday May 7th, 2013 10:16:40 AM
Zeoll says a prayer for guidance, then speaks to his friends using his bluff skill to do so secretly ... Bluff check 21 does the job ... Zeoll suggests leading the fellow out of line of sight of the cave, then casting Extended Enthrall, which will hold him enthralled for two hours. That's the time you can use to get in and out of the cave. And if he wants to listen, maybe he can deliberately fail the save, to make sure he is enthralled. Worth a try?
DM SANITY INFO ==========
Current Effects: Mage Armor 6 hrs False Life (+12hp) 12 hrs Taur's Try Centaur
Cleric Spells (underlined = cast): 0: guidance, det magic, light, stabilize 1: bane, command x4, elf vision 2: calm emotions, hold person, enthrall, faerie fire.
Sorcerer Spells cast today: 1st lvl: 2 of 8 (mage armor, SFF) 2nd lvl: 2 of 4 (false life takes up two slots) Pick from: 0: read magic, det poison, taur's try, det magic, flare, prestidigitation; 1: true strike, charm person, mage armor; 2: false life
Other daily use abilities: Laughing Touch used 0 of 8 Channel Energy 1d6 used 0 of 8 Hide Away used 0 of 8 Spread the Word: not available Meta Rod of Extend: used 0 of 3
Also used: Scroll of Silent Image
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Tuesday May 7th, 2013 11:57:36 AM
Restlin nods. "I like Zeoll's idea. Let's give it a shot."
"Talking" with Mr. Spikey (DM SteveK) Tuesday May 7th, 2013 1:34:33 PM
Last Questions "Will Trella somehow know if anyone enters the cave, or takes anything from within?" SHRUG would he stand aside and let us past? (sadly) NO Is our best course of action a direct assault on your captor? SHRUG Would we want to attempt to get the shard before stopping her? (thoughtful) YES Do you know of a weakness of hers we should be seeking out before attacking? (points to Cave) YES And in the picture you drew, does the torc represent you? NO (points to torc on neck) and the line and ball the relative location of the docs? NO And the hounds important in all this? NO Is the symbol looking like a ball on a stick the an item that can remove the curse from you? YES Is it hidden inside of the cave? YES ..................
Through much trial and error, it is determined that Sir Maran-cum-MrSpikey can indeed move away from the Cave as long as he is closer than anyone else.
Leading the creature back to the woods, Bosk gives Sir Maran a barrel of ale which it greedily drinks down. And then Zeoll begins singing and (more elegantly than getting a monster drunk, thinks Restlin) Enthralls Sir Maran is enthralled, and the group returns to the Cave and are able to see inside. It has taken a couple minutes for all preparations and movement, but soon the heroes are standing in front of the Cave....
The tunnel to the cave looks natural and is large, a full 15 feet across. It goes 50 feet straight in before turning left, beyond sight. It is dark, and the heroes must provide their own light. The floor is smooth, but littered with broken stone.
......................
All heroes get 6,300xp in defeating the monster/ Mr.Spikey/ Sir Maran
......................
Since leaving Threshold (Mage Armor, etc): 1 hour 83 rounds Since arriving at Quinn's Fort (Heroism, Resist Fire): 83 rounds (ie 8 minutes) Since began run to the Fort (Shield expired): 73 rounds
Zeoll AC22 with shield, HP56+12 Tuesday May 7th, 2013 2:24:21 PM
Zeoll continues to concentrate on the Extended Enthrall, giving the rest of the Iron Adventurers two hours to complete their investigations.
If possible, he would like Mr. Spikey to be out of line of sight of the cave mouth.
HP: 52/56 AC:(25 haste + Shld-6mins) 20/ F: 16/ T: 14 CMD:21 Valla Crudarian Tuesday May 7th, 2013 5:45:31 PM
Happy with the result of his inquiries and being the one to get a concrete answer about the ball on a stick Valla picks up his bag and follows the others into the cave taking a position in the middle of the group. I'll have to hand it to you, that went better than expected. The Iron Adventurer's I left at the Temple of the Illithid would have charged, likely killed Mr. Spikey on accident and found a way to start the place on fire...but the day's still young I suppose.
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Tuesday May 7th, 2013 5:55:55 PM
Bosk makes a note to himself to pick up more ale the next time they pass through town and smiles as the group enters the cave. His father had always told him that a fine wine can bring even the worst of enemies together and he is glad to see that the same concept can be applied to a gallon of ale. I have a light cantrip prepared, but I will have to cast it several times and it might give our location away. Does anyone have some sunrods or torches we can use? If not, I have some magic everburn candles, but they don't produce as much light as a torch.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (saving grace active) Tuesday May 7th, 2013 6:10:37 PM
Beri raises an eyebrow at Valla. Impressive. Not sure if I missed something, but I completely misinterpreted those drawings. It's good to have you back.
Zane Stormfront AC 29,26,23 CMD 27 HP 73/73 25 Fire Resist Tuesday May 7th, 2013 6:18:06 PM "I got a headband I'll loan out, it has a continual flame cast on it, I don't need a light so I'll go in first, if that's OK?" Zane recasts shield on himself.
Wyaar (JonL) AC 25/17/23 CMD 25 HP 71/71 Tuesday May 7th, 2013 10:54:53 PM
"Go first if you wish Zane, I will go second if someone can provide me with a light... I seemed to have misplace my floating torch.."
Wyaar will go behind Zane. No ioun torch anymore =(
Bosk AC: 26/12/24 CMD:22 HP 66 of 66 Spells Wednesday May 8th, 2013 12:06:56 AM
ooc: How wide is it in the cave?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: 18/17/16 CMD: 19 HP: 61/62 (Spells) - Mage Armor (7hr) Wednesday May 8th, 2013 9:42:28 AM
Restlin will cast light for anyone who requests it. He casts it on his own dagger as well before entering, preferably flanked on all sides by hardier members of the Iron Adventurers.
"Oh Valla, you don't know the half of it. You guys remember the time I blew up the zombie kitchen when the only way out was filled with poisonous gas? Good times, eh?"
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