The Spark Activates – coDM SteveK Friday September 27th, 2024 7:15:56 AM
Gaffer activates the Spark and the Time Transporter flashes.
The heroes find themselves on a gray level floor, 50 foot square. All about them is blackness and the stars. There is nothing at all on the square, not a speck of dust, not except for one large lever canted at a 45 degree angle.
The heroes find they can breathe, are not affected by weightlessness, and Nira can immediately tell that the preparation spells are all still intact, which means they probably aren't on another plane.
..............
Map in Email
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=37 ; Friday September 27th, 2024 8:16:31 AM ~~~
”Um, before I start pulling levers and stuff like that, I was thinking – perhaps some sort of Divination might help. Of course, I am most definitely going to be checking for traps and other nasties.” Yrűl stated quietly. Somehow it just felt wrong to make a lot of noise out in this empty vastness. Looking around she felt far from comfortable. Enclosed spaces were far more to her liking.
~~~
Perception: 37: to spot anything ‘odd’/worrying/unusual.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+33=53 ; Friday September 27th, 2024 10:49:06 PM
Nira keeps hold of Gaffer's hand and tries to ascend 5ft off the ground. She wants to test that she still has control of her flight out here and make sure she doesn't float off into space. When she's confident she has control she'll let go.
She responds telepathically to Yrul's question. "The only divination I know will take 10 minutes to cast. Unless I try casting a miracle, but I'd rather keep hold of those until we really need them"
Nira cautiously approaches the edge of the square and look down to see what's below them.
"If you don't find any traps, perhaps we could pull the lever remotely though with a mage hand or unseen servant spell? Maybe even a summons of some kind?"
---------- Move: Move to AF16 (5ft high if she has control of her flight and doesn't float off into space, otherwise stay on the ground) Perception: 53
Spells in effect: Arcane Sight ... Barkskin ... Contingency (FoM) ... Darkvision ... Mage Armor ... Magic Vestment x 2 ... Moment of Prescience ... Overland Flight ... Resist Fire (5) ... Roses Temperature Control ... See Invisibility ... Telepathic Bond
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Saturday September 28th, 2024 9:02:27 AM ~~~
”You should probably save your magic; it’s way more powerful than mine. As for a volunteer to pull the lever, I could always find one, but that doesn’t feel very nice; so I’ll do it myself. After all, I have to back my skills you know. It wouldn’t be fair to ask someone else to do it.” Yrűl replied mentally. She smiled. It seemed that she was finally getting the hang of it..
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Saturday September 28th, 2024 10:05:55 PM
Without knowing what to expect next, Desdichado stands still - axe in hand - watching Nira test her levitation and Yrul examine the lever.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 Saturday September 28th, 2024 11:29:56 PM Maybe we could look around a bit before pulling levers?
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+38=44 ; Sunday September 29th, 2024 7:29:14 PM
Now that they have arrived safely, Gaffer hurries to cast a couple more spells, and seeing that he doesn't need to change form in this environment he makes sure his metamagic rod is handy.
That done, he'll help the others inspect their surroundings. Particularly the platform for any possible details not obvious on a first glance.
----- Perception: 44 ----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Sunday September 29th, 2024 11:49:52 PM
Courtney, you have mail. :)
Jericho Space, 0.4 minutes – coDM SteveK Monday September 30th, 2024 7:48:30 AM
0.4 minutes
Yrűl is quiet in the huge, open space, and sees what she can see from 15’ away from the lever. Even at her distance, she notes two further details. The first is the head of the lever looks like the Maharaja’s Seal; that leering, condescending face. The second is that there is, indeed, a magical trap, a Fireball, that will trigger if the lever is thrown!
Nira tests her magic, and sees she does have control of her flight; the gray, extremely clean platform acting just like the ground of the Wold. Floating, she lets go of Gaffer's hand and cautiously approaches the edge of the square, and look down. And there, there is another platform! It is perpendicular to the platform The Tide is on and its edge seamlessly connects at the edges (like .L where Nira is the “.” and the two platforms are the “L”). Her sharp eyes spot an identical lever in the center of the second platform. And among the stars in that direction, far beyond the platform, floats what appears to be a river of rocks, stretching across the starry sky from left to right.
Desdichado stands still - axe in hand, not knowing what to expect next.
Ramirez suggests looking around a bit before pulling levers?
Gaffer casts three spells and makes sure his metamagic rod is handy while looking about, particularly the platform. There are absolutely no other details on the platform not already seen; not a scratch. Above the heroes, however, the druid notes there are not only the far away stars. Above the heroes, there is the blazing sun, Thermo, but much smaller than when seen from the Wold. Two large balls and two small balls are near the sun, and off to one side, a flattened green and blue disc is also nearby. (Know Geography DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {the flattened ball has a green shape that looks like the Northern Continent!})( Know Planes DC 15:Highlight to display spoiler: { As expected, they must be in Jericho Space!})
..............
Map in Email
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=35 ; Monday September 30th, 2024 10:15:40 AM ~~~
”Okay, so there’s a seal there and a fiery trap. I can probably handle both, but...um...I should probably check the other one as well – first. In fact I think both would bear some close inspection.” Yrűl informed the others before moving forward to get a much closer look at the lever and its seal. Her initial thoughts were to deactivate the seal, then deactivate the trap, then throw the lever. What she was unsure of of was whether this was the real lever, or whether it was te other one; so before doing anything, she intended to study both.
”Um...Nira, can you check that I can walk over onto the other side without falling off? Or, I can try and you can catch me with all that flying if I do fall.” She suggested. Whilst she awaited more information, she studied the lever on her current platform.
~~~
Perception: 35: to spot anything new/more details. (once again the Perception rolls are abysmal. It’s becoming a distinct trend.)
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Monday September 30th, 2024 3:14:34 PM
Gaffer had kept his Airwalk spells handy, though looking at the surroundings he's a little unsure if they will work here. Yrűl seems justly concerned though so he'll cast one on them, himself, and anyone else who would like one.
As for the seal, trap and lever, Yrűl has been succesful so far and Gaffer has no problem with that continuing. "I'd suggest going trap then seal, and we may not even need to pull the lever?"
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground; Gaffer, Yrűl
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Monday September 30th, 2024 4:19:51 PM
Danko pulls us a cube and approaches Yrul... " Friend, this is a cube of force... It'll protect you from... well everything.... "
He points to the 5th side...
" If things go sideways... press this face... and it will errect a cube for force barriers to protect you... this face here... will deactive the barrier.... "
---------- Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil d20=18 ; Monday September 30th, 2024 6:38:12 PM
Desdichado stands patiently as Yrul does her sneaky trapfinding.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday September 30th, 2024 6:56:03 PM "Uh, there's another lever on this side" Nira alerts the others "I think we might be standing on a cube". To test her theory she moves over to the corner and looks down.
"That might mean 6 levers"
She absentmindedly tosses out an idea that could be good or bad. "We summon 6 things, stand inside the cube of force, and direct the summons to pull all of the levers at the same time". It's not so much an idea as just a thought. They need more information before jumping to such an action. Right now, Yrul tackling the seal seems like the best plan.
----------- Move: Move to AC16 and look down on both sides Move: See if she can take a step off the edge of AC16 to AC15
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 d20+18=31 ; d20+22=31 ; Monday September 30th, 2024 8:33:03 PM
kn geography = 31 kn planes = 31 (Ramirez relates the information in the spoilers)
Hmm I wonder if Nira is on to something. Let's see if there are 6 levers. And if there are, if we disable the Maharaja seal, will it stop whatever the creature is from getting released?
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Monday September 30th, 2024 8:51:50 PM
Hmerrin is willing to wait quietly while the sneaky people do their inspecting.
"You don't suppose the levers rotate the cube," he ponders.
Considering the Situation: Jericho Space, 0.5 minutes – coDM SteveK Tuesday October 1st, 2024 7:42:18 AM
Yrűl doesn’t feel she is doing very well, but her expertise is able to overcome a lack of discipline. She moves closer (ooc: AG,20) and sees the trap is over the Seal and would trigger at a touch. This Seal is different, because it seems to be not magical, but a physical part of the lever.
Gaffer casts Airwalk on all the heroes, whether they use it or not is, of course, an individual choice.
Danko pulls out his Cube of Force and offers it to Yrűl, showing her which rune protects from everything and which deactivates the magic. To offer it, he has to move to stand next to the Drow. (ooc: move to AF,20)
Desdichado stands patiently as Yrul does her sneaky trapfinding.
Nira alerts the others of another lever on her side: they may be on a cube themselves! She tests her theory, and yes: there is another platform that meets up with the first two… and it also has a lever in the center. If the other sides are the same, they are indeed on a cube in Jericho Space. 6 levers? The elf-girl offers a plan, and makes another test, still in Overland Flight mode, and moves to the third platform. Yes, her feeling of gravity has changed to the new platform that she is over. Yet because she is flying, she is currently prone on the new platform. (ooc: at Y,16) And looking straight up, she sees a new view of Jericho Space: only showing the darkness and the stars with no other objects close enough to see.
Ramirez thinks Nira is onto something, and proposes a different plan.
Hmerrin is willing to wait quietly while the sneaky people do their inspecting, and offers another idea.
...........
The heroes have the initiative.
Map in Email.
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Tuesday October 1st, 2024 9:14:06 AM ~~~
”Right, so, maybe we take a quick walk around old cubey here and make sure that only one has a seal. If that’s the case. This one is a physical, not a magical one, but that doesn’t change much for us Shadow dancers. It can still be bypassed. I think. The thing is, just touching this lever will set off a fiery explosion and I bet it won’t be a little one. For me, it’s not a big issue as shadow dancers are really rather good at getting out of the way of such things, but maybe you guys should hand around on another face of the cube. What do you think? Personally, I’d prefer t take a quick look at each lever and then come back to tackle the seal. There might be some more traps.” Yrűl smiled encouragingly as if discussing some tasty delectables for dinner. She didn’t appear at all worried about the daunting task at hand.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements. Air Walk
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Tuesday October 1st, 2024 4:31:34 PM
Desdichado thinks that Yrul has a sound plan. Investigate all of the levers, see if there are any more traps, and then make a decision on what to do from that information.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Tuesday October 1st, 2024 6:17:03 PM
Hmerrin nods at the plan.
"Hokay. Everyone pick a direction and find out a) if we're on a weird cube b) if there is a lever in every face of the cube and c) if that ugly mug is on all the levers.
Oh, and probably a good idea not to touch anything yet."
The fighter dutifully moves east (off the AL12 side) and hopefully air walks himself down/across the expected cube face to see if the expected lever has an expected face.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday October 1st, 2024 6:50:19 PM
Gaffer isn't sure he'll be able to find traps as well as Yrűl, but he'll stick close to them to make sure nothing untoward happens as they move around.
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground; Gaffer, Yrűl
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Tuesday October 1st, 2024 7:00:46 PM
Danko smurks and quickly casts.
He then points to a spot on his left...
" Hey folks, this is Irving. Irving is an unseen servant.... when time comes, he call pull the levers.... I can also summon more servants to help out... "
---------------------------- Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10 Unseen servant - 17 hours
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 Tuesday October 1st, 2024 7:08:06 PM So if we are on a cube....is there a creature inside it?
Ramirez moves to an unoccupied side, to help determine if it is a cube. And wonders how big the creature is...
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+33=44 ; Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 2:34:08 AM "If it's inside the cube, what will happen once it's released? Will the whole cube disappear?" No-one knows the answer of course, but it's another thing to consider.
Nira tries to right herself and looks to the side of the cube she's on. She looks to see if there is a seal on this side as well, and tries to see if she can see any traps around or on the lever.
------------ Perception: 44
It Appears to be a Cube: Jericho Space, 0.6 minutes – coDM SteveK Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 7:30:37 AM
(ooc: 1 round passes)
Yrűl thinks a quick walk around will be useful. She doesn’t take Danko’s cube, trusting her shadowdancing for getting out of the way of area effect spells. such things, but maybe you guys should hand around on another face of the cube. She definitely wants to see all possible sides herself! (ooc: DM needs a location that Yrűl can get to in 1 round of movement)
Desdichado thinks that Yrűl has a sound plan. Investigate all of the levers, see if there are any more traps, and then make a decision on what to do from that information. He doesn’t move.
Hmerrin nods at the plan, and asks for everyone to pick a direction and find out if they are on a weird cube with a lever that has the Maharaja’s condescending face. Oh, and not to touch anything! He moves to AL16 and steps out to what feels like a cliff straight down to nothingness, but gravity switches, and he finds himself standing at AL12 with most of the rest of the team standing on the cliff now behind him! From where he is standing, it looks like the perfectly smooth platform with a lever in the middle (canted like the others at 45* angle), but he is too far away (or hasn’t rolled a Perception check) so doesn’t know if the Seal is on the lever.
Further, standing on a corner edge like he is, Hmerrin can look to his left and see Nira staring ‘down’ at him from her platform. And to his right, is another cliff with another lever.
Gaffer sticks close to Yrűl, but he'll stick close to them to make sure nothing untoward happens as they move around.
Danko casts Unseen Servant, calling the helpful force ‘Irving’, and says he can pull the levers, and thinks more summonings could do so safely.
Ramirez speculates, if we are on a cube....is there a creature inside it? The bard decides to move to an unoccupied side, and the closest side he didn’t see a Tide wash over is… He walks to AE25, takes a step and, like Hmerrin, is on a perfectly smooth platform with a lever in the middle (canted like the others at 45* angle), but he is too far away (or hasn’t rolled a Perception check) so doesn’t know if the Seal is on the lever. (ooc: Ramirez is at BJ,3). Behind him are is Yrűl, Gaffer, Danko, and Desdichado. He can’t see Hmerrin or Nira.
Further, the bard speculates that if the creature is inside the cube and the cube is perfectly hollow… it would be x4 sizes bigger than the Glittering Serpent, Lila!
Nira speculates another possibility, when released will the cube disappear? She rights herself easily, and her excellent Perception enables the elf-girl to confirm her side’s lever pommel is the shape of the leering Maharaja’s face. Like the other three sides that have been explored, the lever is canted at a 45* angle.
………….
The heroes are now on four different platforms (Nira, Hmerrin, and Ramirez all on the edge of three different platforms, and the other four heroes on the platform they arrived on) and Hmerrin can see a fifth platform that no one is on right now. All platforms are connecting at angles that would tend to verify they are on a giant cube orbiting Thermo but further away than the Wold. Having begun to explore, we’ll change the ‘platforms’ name to ‘sides’, and each ‘Side’ explored have several things in common: - A perfect 50’ square - Perfectly smooth without a scratch or speck of dust - Local gravity for each Side is ‘down’ and ‘normal weight’ towards the Side - A lever, canted at a 45* angle, is in the center of each Side
Ooc: DM is designating the Side Yrűl, Danko, Gaffer, and Desdichado are on (same one they arrived on) as Side #1 (indicated on the map as an Orange Squared “1”) Nira is on Side #2 Ramirez is on Side #3, the side Hmerrin can see that no on is on is Side #4, and just for giggles, Hmerrin is on Side #6
DM requests Players be as specific as possible as to what square on the map they are going/on. Rolling skill checks are also very important: the DM won’t give away information for free! :-)
Map in Email
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=47 ; Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 8:08:30 AM ~~~
To AT 8 Side 4.
”We’ll go and check over here.” Yrűl stated as she headed towards the edge of the p[altform upon which she currently stood. Excited about the switch of gravity, she held her Air Walk in abeyance to experience the switch.
(If that’s not an option – she’ll not waste the Air Walk, but use that instead and still orient herself correctly)
Once at the lever, she will again examine it without touching and instructs none of her little friends to so so either.
~~~
Perception: 47: To determine the presence of any traps, whilst obviously looking for another seal. Plus, anything different from the other lever/platform.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 6:19:47 PM
"Danko, can your unseen servants pull the levers even if they are on the opposite sides from us? I like the idea of pulling them all at the same time, but I think that it might be best if we're all together in the same area when that happens."
Desidchado remains in place for now.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 d20+22=35 ; Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 6:37:35 PM
Ramirez tests the mindlink to see if it works in this place. Do all the levers have the Maharaja's face on it?
Ramirez moves to inspect the lever on this side(3)(without touching it!) He looks for any marking or writing on or near the lever, trying to determine if they need to be pulled in a specific order or all at once. (perception = 35)
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- d20+29=38 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+8=16 ; Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 7:12:20 PM
If he 'heard' Ramirez, Hmerrin responds {Checking this one now}
The fighter moves up to the lever, trying not to set off any traps, and visually inspects it for a maharja head.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+25=28 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2024 4:29:54 AM
Danko's question isn't one Gaffer had thought of, but now he's mentioned it, Gaffer is sure he is correct.
He breaks off from the smaller group to move to another square, inspecting the starry sky above as he does. While he's looking from a whole new angle, he does his best to compare constellations and patterns to those from home.
Does this look like the natural sky, is anything out of place? Does moving from side to side change anything other than the angle?
----- Move to AJ11 Nature: 28
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp d20+20=25 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2024 6:19:04 AM
Danko and Irving the unseen servant stay close to Yru
Danko then ponders Des' question about the unseen servants (spell craft check 25) and responds using the mindlink...
============
AR 6 Spell craft check 25
Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Checking Levers: Jericho Space, 0.7 minutes – coDM SteveK d20+9=14 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2024 7:32:14 AM
Yrűl heads to the edge, excited to feel the gravity-switch going to Side 4 of the probable cube and gets to experience the ‘flip’ that NIra, Hmerrin, and Ramirez did. There is no adjustment, or hesitation, just like stepping forward, but this time it included a 90* ‘down’ step. Above the Yrűl, there is only the blackness and a starry sky. She tells her little friends to not touch, and intends to look for traps, but it is too late: a green ray stabs from the lever to the Surface Drow! Luckily, Yrűl is lithe (touch Ac 14), and twists away from the ray. As she observes, she sees the lion dudes mean face on the lever and (obviously) there is a trap on the lever, currently resetting, to attack anyone who speaks on this side!
Desidchado remains in place, and likes the idea of pulling the levers at the same time, and that the heroes are all together in the same area when that happens.
Ramirez hears the telepathic bond works as normal. The heroes have only looked at 4 levers so far, and the bard moves to inspect the lever on Side 3 without touching. Above Ramirez, an inky blackness seems to blot out most of the stars. (Know Planes DC 35 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is The Bleak. Sages speculate it may have sentience like an immortal, but no expedition to discover more has ever returned. } There is no marking or writing on or near the lever, but he can confirm ol’ Maharaja’s face is on this one, too!
Hmerrin 'hears' Ramirez, and responds, check check, is this thing on? Above the fighter he can see a large pink ball with a hoop floating around its center. (Know Planes DC 30, Highlight to display spoiler: { this is Seliva, named when dreamers of the mad god thought it was the tip of a giant’s tongue.}) There is nothing else to be seen except for the identical lever in the middle of the floor. As Hmerrin moves up to the lever, he notices four stars breaking off from the large pink ball and brighten as they rapidly get closer to the probable cube. Trying not to set off any traps, Hmerrin visually inspects the lever and finds another Maharaja head.
Gaffer is sure Danko is correct, and moves to the Side where Hmerrin is standing, inspecting the lever. As he inspects the starry sky, he also sees what the fighter saw. Moving from side to side changes his view of the lever normally, and doesn't change the sky above: probably because five feet either way isn’t much of an angle change in Jericho Space!
Danko and Irving stay close to Yrűl and ponders unseen servants. The Sorcerer knows at his level, an Unseen Servant must stay within 65’ of Danko or it will disappear. They will mindlessly follow the casters verbal directions and can exert 20 pounds of push/pull/lift (ie STR 2).
From her position at the conjunction of three Sides, Nira can see both Desdichado, and Hmerrin and Gaffer on their respective Sides, and can observe the skies above those Sides, too.
……….
The heroes continue to explore the Sides of the probable cube and the levers. Each ‘Side’ explored have several things in common: - A perfect 50’ square - Perfectly smooth without a scratch or speck of dust - Local gravity for each Side is ‘down’ and ‘normal weight’ towards the Side - A lever, canted at a 45* angle, is in the center of each Side - Each inspected lever has that maddening, leering face of the Maharaja.
Desdichado is on Side Side #1 (indicated on the map as an Orange Squared “1”) Nira is on Side #2 Ramirez is on Side #3, Yrűl is on Side #4, and Hmerrin and Gaffer are on Side #6
DM requests Players be as specific as possible as to what square on the map they are going/on. Rolling skill checks are also very important: the DM won’t give away information for free! :-)
Map in Email
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=48 ; d20+42=56 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2024 8:56:27 AM ~~~
It was time to get busy. Having nasty green rays shot at you tended to focus the mind. So Yrűl set to work deactivating the trap. She hoped that it hadn’t reset that quickly; so this seemed like the perfect time to tackle it.
~~~
Perception: 48: To determine the presence of any further traps. Disable Device: 56.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday October 3rd, 2024 4:09:15 PM
"Does anyone have a way to see through the floor - or whatever this is - to see what's inside?"
It sounds like Danko's plan might work, depending on how hard the levers are to pull.
Desdichado remains in place.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Thursday October 3rd, 2024 7:26:27 PM
Hmerrin watches the brightening stars.
{ Gonna take a swag here and say we got six levers on each side of this cube, all with the maharaja's face on them and all trapped with hideous magic spells.
To add to the fun, we have four somethings headed toward us from a large pink ball sitting out there.
Seems like we need to pull all six levers for whatever it is to happen. And seems unlikely Yrul can deactivate all the traps before the four whatevers get here.
Danko, can your unseen servants survive the traps?}
------------ In Effect Air Walk
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 d20+22=38 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2024 7:43:17 PM
kn planes = 38 Ramirez relays the information about the Bleak to the rest of the team, that it may have sentience like an immortal, but no expedition to discover more has ever returned
Since they seem to be getting the same results on each side of the cube, Ramirez starts to move back to side 1 where they started out.
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Thursday October 3rd, 2024 9:04:14 PM "Ok, the clock is ticking. Perhaps we go with Yrul disarming as many traps as can be done. If we get down to less than a minute to go we pull all of the levers at the same time?"
Time is quickly running out.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Friday October 4th, 2024 6:24:14 AM "Nira's plan sounds good to me" Gaffer relays to the others as he starts moving. Nobody is currently on the last square, or has looked at it yet, so Gaffer will move there.
----- Move: Square 5 doesn't have coordinates, but Gaffer's aim is to reach the lever of that side. He will peer over the edge before stepping round.
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Friday October 4th, 2024 6:35:29 AM
" Between Irving, the 65 feet limit and a spell I have that can move objects, I can likely deal with at least two levers without having to get close to them. If we're not looking at pulling them all at once, I can go with Yrul, wait for the traps to be disarmed, wait for Yrul to move out of the way and then pull the levek from the edge of the cube. The do the same think over and over again on each face. Irving can help. And no, he can't die if hurt to bad, he would simply be sent back to his plane. "
--------- Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Traps!: Jericho Space, 0.8 minutes – coDM SteveK 8d6=27 ; d6=3 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+9=25 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+9=14 ; 2d6=5 ; 6d6=19 ; 18d6=56 ; 18d6=63 ; 18d6=56 ; 18d6=61 ; Friday October 4th, 2024 7:09:53 AM
Yrűl takes a chance and jumps to the lever to disarm the ‘green ray’ trap before it strikes again. Working feverishly, she sees the traps trigger was verbal; anyone talking on this Side would get a green ray! Not talking, her fingers fly unerringly as she successfully dismantles the trap! With another looksee over, the Shadowdancer confirms there are no other traps on Side 4s lever.
Desdichado asks for x-ray vision or something as he keeps in place where the Tide washed up.
Hmerrin watches the brightening stars and makes a wild guess, and tells the others about the four somethings. Supposition: they are on limited time.
Ramirez relays the information about the Bleak, that inky blackness he can see from Side 5, that it may have sentience like an immortal, but no expedition to discover more has ever returned. He agrees with Hmerrin about the same results on every side, and trots back to stand with Desdichado on Side 1.
Nira agrees the clock is ticking and votes for Yrűl to disarm as many traps as she can until only a minute is left, then just pull all the levers at the same time. Doing it at the same time is going to be the tricky part: shouting might work, but the only positive control is going to be if the heroes split up and use their telepathic bond to call the countdown.
Gaffer relays he likes Nira’s plan. And since nobody has looked at the last square, the druid moves there. He peers over the edge, confirming they are, indeed, on a gray cube before stepping over onto Side 5. (ooc: now added to the Player’s Map) Using a double move, he is able to get within 5’ (to G,19) when Lightning suddenly arcs out and strikes Gaffer! (Gaffer takes 27 electricity damage, DC 16 Reflex save for half, minus any other defenses)
Danko offers and adjustment to the plan using Irving.
…………. Hmerrin misjudges how much time he has, for the four stars that broke off from the large pink ball shoot across the darkness of Jericho Space in a trail of sparks. Arriving at Side 6, they each pick a target, but Hmerrin is the only one here. Only one strikes the fighter in the chest, but all four are nearby as the meteor swarm explodes! [Hmerrin takes 24 damage with the meteor strike (less any DR), and 56, 63, 56, 61 fire damage (no DR, but roll Reflex DC 23 four times for ˝ damage on the four strikes). Potentially taking 237 damage! When it clears, the hero can still see that condescending face on the lever pommel, leering at Hmerrin.
From her position at the conjunction of three Sides, Nira is in total cover and not damaged by the firey cataclysm that engulfs Hmerrin! When over, Nira and Hmerrin can see there is not a speck of dust or scratch on the cube.
……….
Each ‘Side’ has several things in common: - A perfect 50’ square - Perfectly smooth without a scratch or speck of dust - Local gravity for each Side is ‘down’ and ‘normal weight’ towards the Side - A lever, canted at a 45* angle, is in the center of each Side - Each inspected lever has that maddening, leering face of the Maharaja.
Desdichado and Ramirez are on Side Side #1 (indicated on the map as an Orange Squared “1”) Nira is on Side #2 Yrűl and Danko are on Side #4, Gaffer is on Side #5, and Hmerrin is on Side #6
DM requests Players be as specific as possible as to what square on the map they are going/on. Rolling skill checks are also very important: the DM won’t give away information for free! :-)
Map in Email
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=41 ; d20+42=59 ; Friday October 4th, 2024 7:49:16 AM ~~~
To BG 8 Side 3.
“I think that the traps and attacks will keep coming, so I’ll work as quickly as I can. I’ve disabled that one” Yrűl mentally informed everyone as she quickly moved around to tackle another trapped lever. “Looks like all the levers are trapped.” She added.
~~~
Perception: 41: To determine the presence of any traps. Disable Device: 59.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
~~~
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Saturday October 5th, 2024 12:20:58 AM "Do whatever you can Yrul"
She then opens it up to the group. "Things might keep escalating the longer we take, and we still have a creature to deal with afterwards. Do we keep disarming things as they come, or start pulling levers?"
------------- Waiting to see Hmerrin's post before acting
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- d20+19=37 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+19=37 ; d20+19=38 ; Saturday October 5th, 2024 11:22:17 AM
[Reflex rolls - 37, 32, 37, 38]
Hmerrin realizes what the inbound somethings are. "Oh, ....."
He dances around the incoming missiles Fire engulfs him. The fighter is really, really happy he bought that Ring of Greater Energy Resistance (Fire).
Between that, his mithril armor, and a lot of practice avoiding things, Hmerrin emerges practically unscathed.
The fire passes. {Found another trap,} he informs the others drolly.
Hmerrin air walks so he's a foot off the surface. Perhaps his footfalls set it off. {I'm gonna hold here and maybe it doesn't reset} he sends. {Nobody come to my side, I'm not sure what set that off. My vote is pull them all at the same time. Also, if you haven't set off a trap, let Yrul try to find and disable it first}
------------ DR 5 on meteor + 4 reflex saves + 30 hp fire resistance = 20 hp damage
Air walk 1' above surface and wait. Watching the pink ball. Ready Action - if it unleashes another volley, run to AH16 (side 1)
In Effect Air Walk
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Sunday October 6th, 2024 12:45:41 AM
Desdichado agrees with Hmerrin's thoughts about pulling them all at the same time. There's a chance that pulling only one might reset the traps.
Let's let Yrul keep disarming them for now. If it looks like we need to speed things up for some reason we can change course then.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 Sunday October 6th, 2024 6:13:59 PM I agree, and since they seem to have different triggers, let's try not to move around too much while Yrul works.
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+17=34 ; Sunday October 6th, 2024 6:41:16 PM
Gaffer takes a quick backstep and the boltof lightning shimmers into his steelgrassa armor, the remnant of it little more than jolt for him. He pauses in place, trying not to trigger it a second time.
"We've already trigger a number of traps, I'm inclined to say we prioritise all pulling the levers at the same time, before anything worse happens."
----- Reflex Save: 34; Electric Resistance 5; 9 Damage
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday October 7th, 2024 12:36:23 AM
Nira is relieved to see Hmerrin appear relatively unscathed.
"Ok, I'm going to start summoning some aid. When it comes time to pull some levers they can take care of it"
She starts casting a Summon Monster VI spell to bring in some mephits.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Monday October 7th, 2024 7:11:49 AM
Danko casts Haste on Yrul....
{ That should help a bit }
------------- Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
AR 6
OOC - SteveK to Nick 2d4=5 ; Monday October 7th, 2024 7:50:41 AM
NIck,
I'd like to speed up the timing on the posts. Can you:
1. Give me which order Yrul does each Side? 2. Make 4 more Perception checks for traps 3. Make 4 more Disable Device checks on traps.
I will move the action forward as far as I can to where either something else happens, or it is 30 seconds from the 5 minute time limit.
To the centre of each facing. The sequence being 3, 4, 6, 2. I note that no facing 5 is listed. Perhaps the cube is hollow. If there is a 5, she’ll do that too. This then becomes: 4, 6, 2, 5. (As I listed the rolls for 3 in my last post.)
Yrűl moved swiftly on. With all her little friends helping and encouraging, she tackled each lever in turn, seeking traps and then doing her best to disable them.
“Come on, stay focused guys. We’ve got this” She added mentally, electing to stay silent in case of more nasty surprises.
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Three Minutes, Lickety-Split! coDM SteveK 2d4=4 ; 2d4=5 ; 2d4=3 ; 2d4=7 ; Monday October 7th, 2024 12:12:21 PM
Yrűl tells the others she will work as quickly as she can, and trots over to Side #3. Looking it over, it takes a couple of seconds to determine this trigger is when the lever is moved, the floor drops out! It is a half-minute of work to disarm this trap. (ooc: 1 round for trotting and looking, 5 rounds for disarming)
Nira encourages the Shadowdancer to do whatever she can, and brings up when do they just start pulling levers? Seeing Hmerrin is OK, she begins a Summoning to bring in some Mephits.
Hmerrin realizes what the inbound somethings are, but skill and foresight bring his injuries to not much more than scorched clothing! Using Gaffer’s Air Walk, he hopes footfalls were the reason he set off the trap and watches the pink ball while wondering how quickly the traps reset.
Desdichado agrees with pulling the levers at the same time. There's a chance that pulling only one might reset the traps. He doesn’t move.
Ramirez also agrees, and notes each lever seems to have different triggers, which suggests to not move around too much while Yrul works.
Gaffer gets a jolt from the lightning, and agrees with not moving, waiting for Yrul’s trap disarmaments, and pulling the levers at the same time.
Danko casts Haste on Yrul to help a bit.
……. With only Yrul moving about, time seems to stretch for most of the heroes: not doing anything except gauge the passage of time is daunting.
Yrul on the other hand, moves as quickly as she can. Going to Sides 1, 6, 2, and then 5. Hasted as she is from Danko, it only takes her 1 round to get to any lever from wherever she is on the cube.
Side 1, she waves at Desdichado and in 4 rounds disables the Maximized Fireball that would go off when the lever is switched.
Side 6, she hops over as Hmerrin races for the edge, there are four more ‘stars’ falling from the pink ball! Yrul and Hmerrin stand a couple of seconds until the huge explosion dissipates and the Shadowdancer goes over Side 1 edge to Side 6. Ah ha: this trap is a proximity, anyone within 10’ of the lever activates the trap. Yrul dismantles the trigger in 5 rounds.
Side 2 is next and it is a deadly spear trap that activates when the lever is touched. Three rounds and it is no longer a problem.
The last trap is Side 5, Gaffer’s lightning bolt trap is another proximity trap on anyone within 5’ of the lever. 7 rounds later, the sixth trap has been dismantled by the expert Shadowdancer!
In 3 minutes, all the traps are disabled. The heroes have the initiative.
……….
Each ‘Side’ has several things in common: - A perfect 50’ square - Perfectly smooth without a scratch or speck of dust - Local gravity for each Side is ‘down’ and ‘normal weight’ towards the Side - A lever, canted at a 45* angle, is in the center of each Side - Each inspected lever has that maddening, leering face of the Maharaja.
Hmerrin, Desdichado and Ramirez are on Side Side #1 (indicated on the map as an Orange Squared “1”) Nira is on Side #2 Danko are on Side #4, Gaffer and Yrul is on Side #5, and Hmerrin is on Side #6
Map in Email
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 7th, 2024 6:50:46 PM Right then, we've got someone on each side? Shall we do this on a count of 3? Desdichado asks over the link as he walks to the lever on side 1.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 Monday October 7th, 2024 7:06:31 PM Do we want to separate or have the summoned creatures throw the levers so we can stay close?
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Used: Spells: 5/6 level 3 remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Monday October 7th, 2024 7:28:11 PM {My vote is separate. No offense to summoned creatures, but I trust the folks with the mental link to do this at the same time. Especially now that the traps are deactivated.}
Hmerrin moves back the lever on side 6 and waits for the rest of the group to pick a lever.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Tuesday October 8th, 2024 5:32:50 AM
Nira summoned critters pop into existance and wait on her command. Unfortunately it takes a few minutes for the disarming to complete, which is longer than she'd hoped for. Her mephits disappear back to their own dimension again.
She approaches lever #2 and wait for someone to give the go-ahead. "I've got this one covered"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday October 8th, 2024 5:43:11 AM "Yrűl are you alright to get lever #3?" Gaffer asks, ready to pull this lever once everyone is in position.
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Tuesday October 8th, 2024 6:23:23 AM
" Irving, go stand by the lever. "
Danko send Irving to stand by lever 4.
{ Where there's a 65 feet limit.,, I don't think I cover more then one lever, }
Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Pulling the Levers - coDM SteveK Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:15:34 AM
Ramirez wonders if the heroes should stick together, but everyone else has chosen a lever to personally pull. As Hmerrin put it; I trust the folks with the mental link to do this at the same time.
Desdichado is ready at Lever #1 Nira is ready at Lever #2 Yrul is ready at Lever #3 Danko and Irving are at Lever #4 Gaffer stands by at Lever #5, and Hmerrin, at Lever #6, is also ready.
The mental countdown begins
One
Two
THREE!
Five heroes and Irving pull at their levers. Danko quickly sees that the lever is too heavy for Irving to pull! Luckily, the Sorcerer placed himself right next to the lever, and is able to lend a hand...
All six levers pull from a 45* position to go up, past the vertical, and all the way down to the smooth gray surface, laying flush...
(ooc: DM continuation pending)
The Monstrosity Attacks! Rd1 - coDM SteveK d20+45=61 ; d20+45=51 ; d20+45=62 ; d20+45=59 ; d20+40=50 ; d20+40=60 ; d20+40=49 ; d100=49 ; d100=23 ; 2d8+18=28 ; 2d8+18=28 ; 2d8+18=33 ; 2d8+18=32 ; 2d6+11=16 ; 2d6+11=15 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=4 ; 2d8+24=26 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:43:21 AM
... and appearing in front of Desdichado and Ramirez as if the levers were the final component of a Summoning spell, stands a gargantuan monstrosity! It appears to be parts of an angelic outsider, a lich, and a gnomish clockwork beast from their worst nightmares. The outsider portion writhes in silent pain at every movement as with a steam whistle and whirr of gyros, four terribly sharp and deadly weapons unfold like a preying mantis as it mantles huge wings that are part bat and part machine. A malevolent darkness surrounds the creature, though the effect doesn't seem to affect being able to see it. Tortured hatred blazes from its eyes as it sees the Aura of Good emanating from the Paladin. It attacks!
All four scythe arms seek to pound, impale, and shred the Paladin, rending his body as they scissor apart explosively. The the 2 wings come around to do still more damage: but while one wing slides into a particularly vulnerable spot, Dez' magic armor saves him from additional pain! (ooc: 4 arm hits, 2 wing hits 1 confirmed critical, 23% doesn't bypass armor Fortification! Damage [29 29 33 32 16 15] + Rend 26 + Bleed [9 4] = Dez takes 191 damage minus any other defenses)
............ Map in Email
"Deva" AC ?? Dam 0 Conditions: each attack acts as bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing; DR ??, SR ??,
(ooc: casting a spell that targets the monstrosity requires 2 Caster Level Checks.)
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+33=44 ; d20+40=58 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 9:59:50 AM ~~~
The sounds of frightful combat were unmistakable. Yrűl gathered her little friends around her and moved smoothly forward into the gloom. Peering over the edge of the cube she espied an impossible creature. It looked tough. Snickit and Dabz were likely going to have to be at their very best to affect it all. Still, she could leave Des there to suffer; so she slipped up behind it determined to attackwhen she could deploy both Snicket and Dabz to best effect. (Next round) Picking the right spot was important; so in order to be especially silent, Yrűl didn’t even breathe. She studied the monstrosity as she slipped ever closer. ~~~
Perception: 44 Stealth: 58
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- d20+38=49 ; d8+18=20 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 5:58:43 PM
Hmerrin rushes toward the sound of battle. Climbing the 'edge', he grimaces at the monstrosity. But there's no time to gawk.
The fighter continues forward, axes in hand, and strikes.
------------- Move to AH18 (Spring Attack Feat to avoid AoO) Attack hits ac 49 for 20 hp damage. (ignores 5 points DR)
In Effect Air Walk
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:91/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil d20+40=56 ; d20+35=46 ; d20+30=33 ; d20+25=41 ; d12+13=19 ; d12+13=20 ; d12+13=23 ; d12+13=21 ; d20+22=28 ; d20+22=34 ; d20+22=39 ; d20+22=35 ; d20+22=33 ; d20+22=30 ; d20+22=36 ; d20+22=40 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 7:40:15 PM
(OOC: Do the "Deva's attacks count as evil? checking for damage reduction. Also, is it an evil outsider? checking for Banishment. I will assume no for counting as evil and yes for outsider in post, and can adjust as necessary.)
Desdichado stands in awe at the creature for a moment. Then, it tears into him, hurting him very badly. With nowhere to go, he swiftly calls upon Domi's help (Smite Evil) and prays that someone can provide him some healing in the meantime.
If anyone can get close to me, I can lend you some of Domi's power for a moment he sends as he strikes back at the monster.
---------- Active effects Air Walk Smite Evil (+6 to melee attack roll and AC vs target, +20 to damage, first attack x2 for evil outsider, dragon, undead) Banishment: smite evil successful against an evil outsides, the outsider is subject to banishment (DC: 26; SR check: d20+22) Bleed
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 162/190 CMD38 d4+6=8 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:15:02 PM
Ramirez stares open mouthed for a moment at the creature, he was expecting something, but this is still a surprise. Seeing more of the team on the way, Ramirez holds off on group buffs and opts for a little defense. Des, be with you in a moment, hang in there
Actions: Ramirez casts mirror image, 8 images created
To the group over mindlink: Got an unfriendly here on the first side of the cube, and it's...ugly
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 144+42/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+31=41 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2024 10:24:30 PM
Nira's eyes widen and she makes for the edge of her side of the cube. The creatures they've faced so far have been terribly powerful, and she doesn't want to leave Dez alone for too long.
She isn't quite sure what it is that she can see feels confident that this is going to be an unavoidable fight.
Nira tries to protect Dez by hiding him from sight.
------------ Move: Fly to AB20, righting herself to the right orientation as she goes Swift: Cast Spectral Hand Standard: Cast Gtr Invisibility on Dez to be delivered via Spectral Hand
Knowl check to ID creature: 41 (Arcana?)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Wednesday October 9th, 2024 6:08:40 AM
Gaffer hears the sudden commotion but can't see anything from his position. There is little he can do but start running.
----- Action and Movement, run 30 feet each; reach V20
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
It is a Devastator! Rd2 - coDM SteveK d20+34=54 ; d20+25=35 ; d20+45=53 ; 2d8+18=21 ; d20+45=54 ; d20+45=63 ; d20+45=60 ; d20+45=53 ; d20+40=54 ; d20+40=43 ; 2d8+18=21 ; 2d8+18=31 ; 2d8+18=21 ; 2d8+18=22 ; 2d6+11=18 ; 2d6+11=20 ; 2d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; 2d8+24=32 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2024 7:56:28 AM
Yrűl gathers her little friends around her and moves smoothly across her side to Side #1, the darkness only comforting her. Studying the monstrosity, other than an unholy melding of creatures, all she can see is it probably hasn’t spotted her yet.
Hmerrin rushes toward the sound of battle. Climbing the 'edge', he grimaces at the monstrosity, then springs forward too fast for the thing to react. A small cut, but he knows all it needs to do is stand still for a couple of seconds… and the malevolent darkness about the monstrosity sucks at the strength of the Fighter! Hmerrin make 1 Fort save DC 24 or take 5 Strength damage!
Desdichado finds Deva’s attacks are Evil, but also Axiomatic, and its attacks bypass his Damage Resistance! The Paladin doesn’t back down, swiftly calls upon Domi's help to Smite Evil, and sends out a telepathic call for healing. But then, something strange happens. As he strikes twice, he sees the monstrosity absorbed the good energies of the Smite Evil of the first attack: it was not damaged… it got stronger!! His second attack affects the monster as normal, it is wounded but the Banishment doesn’t stick. What’s more, the malevolent darkness tries to weaken the Paladin with every successful hit! (Des make 2 Fort save DC 24 or take 6 + 6 Strength damage!
Ramirez decides to hold off on group buffs and opts for a little defense, casting Mirror Image, but leaves himself vulnerable. A scythe-like arm snakes out and crushes/stabs/beats the bard in an opportunistic attack. (Ram takes 21 damage and must make a Concentration Check DC 33 or fizzle the spell!)
Nira's makes for the edge of her side of the cube, flying so she is not on any side of the gray cube at all! There is no gravity here, between Sides, but it appears that she can breathe and fly as normal. She casts a Spectral Hand spell and then Greater Invisibility to help protect Dez. Searching her years of study, the only creature this amalgamation can possibly be is a Devastator! She quickly passes across the telepathic bond to all heroes: A Devastator is a mythic creature that has only been made by cruel gods like Marteus, Ga’al, or Jancassis, this unholy act of twisted humor derives its power from the souls of powerful Good creatures. Besides the power to absorb good magic, it is a construct that is immune to acid, cold, electricity, and fire!
Gaffer, on the opposite side of the cube, hustles to the sound of battle.
Danko casts Greater Teleport and arrives at AE20 (will fix map tomorrow).
....
The Devastator has True Seeing so ignores the Greater Invisibility, ignores the other arriving heroes, and focuses all of its hatred and hunger on the aura of goodness that is the wounded Desdichado. Four arms (two again rending his body), two wings, and they all strike intending to snuff out the goodness of the noble hero! (ooc: 4 arm hits, 2 wing hits; Damage [21, 31, 21, 22, 18, 20] + Rend [32] + Bleed [2] = Dez takes 166 damage minus any other defenses)
It raises its eyes about and spots… Nira, the one who reeks from her Good bond with the Crones of the South. The angelic outsider part silently wails in anguish as the Devastator picks its next target…
............ Map in Email
"Devastator" AC 44 Dam 49 Conditions: Attacks are Magic/Evil/Axiomatic/Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing; DR 15/epic; SR 33; Absorb good effects DC38; construct traits; immune to acid, cold, electricity, and fire;
(ooc: casting a spell that targets the monstrosity requires 2 Caster Level Checks.)
Yrűl grimaced. It looked like this was going to hurt her more than the abomination, but there really wasn’t any alternative. Des simply couldn’t take that sort of appalling damage. So she attacked, unleashing Snickit and Dabz to do their worst – hoping that it was their best. Previous encounters dented her confidence. Snickit’s lightning would be redundant and the thing was also likely to be immune to her deftly placed (sneak) attacks. There was only one way to find out. ~~~
Attack 1: Snickit: natural 20. AC.44 to confirm. Critical hit in dim light BLINDS to recipient. Critical hit also inflicts 2d6 bleed. Damage: 24 plus 11 Sneak Attack Attack 2: Snickit: AC:32. Damage: 21 plus 16 Sneak Attack Attack 3: Snickit . AC: 29 Damage: 22 plus 12 Sneak Attack Attack 1. Dabz. AC: 37. Damage: 19 plus 15 Sneak Attack. Attack 2: Dabz. AC: 39. Damage: 18 plus 21 Sneak Attack Attack 3: Dabz. AC: 30. Damage: 18 plus 14 Sneak Attack
~~~
Looks like most of her attacks will miss. :(
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- d20+24=33 ; d20+38=58 ; d20+33=46 ; d20+28=43 ; d20+23=24 ; d20+38=46 ; d20+33=46 ; d8+20=26 ; d8+20=24 ; d8+20=21 ; d8+20=23 ; d8+20=25 ; d6+19=20 ; d6+19=25 ; d10+10=16 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2024 5:30:22 PM
Hmerrin grits his teeth, both against the evil aura [Fort 33] and the onslaught against Dez.
The fighter strives to get the beast's attention.
----------------- Full Attack. Ignores 5 DR.
btax 1 - Nat 20. Auto confirm (Weapon Mastery) for 94 hp damage btax 2 hit ac 46 for 25 hp damage btax 3 miss (ac 43) btax 4 miss (nat 1) hdax 1 hits ac 46 for 20 hp damage hdax 2 hits ac 46 for 25 hp damage Rend for 16 hp damage
In Effect Air Walk Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday October 9th, 2024 6:13:28 PM
(OOC: Okay, with the evil attacks and no DR, Dez's HP would have been at 31. Even if he used Lay on Hands with Champion of Good's maximized healing, his HP would still have 91 for the last round.)
Desdichado collapses to the ground.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 d20+32=47 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2024 9:40:33 PM
concentration check = 47(hero point used before roll)
Ramirez watches as Des is dropped right in front of him. He starts up an inspiring song for the team, and they can hear the sadness in his voice as he sings inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Ramirez backs up a few more steps and readies his bow
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min mirror image- 8 images
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Thursday October 10th, 2024 3:57:27 AM "Dez!" Nira cries as the Paladin collapses. She wants to rush to his body but it's too late.
She doesn’t have time to mourn just yet. This machine is looking right at her, and it's unnerving. At least it's not looking at Hmerrin.
"You want me? I'm right here!" she taunts the creature.
Nira isn't foolish enough to go toe-to-toe with it though.
------- Ready: if the creature moves towards her, defensively cast Dim Door to teleport to AT10. Concentration check autopass
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) 3d6+20=31 ; d20+20=29 ; d20+20=33 ; Thursday October 10th, 2024 6:37:03 AM
Gaffer continues to hurry forward, rounding the edge of the platform just in time for his heart to wrench at the sight of Dez' body falling to the floor. "NO!"
Nira's warning means that a lot of his spells won't have any effect, he tries to pull on one of the few that can, willing it to strike down the creature.
----- Move: AC21 Cast: Finger of Death; Fortitude Save DC 28; 200 Damage or 31 on a Sucessful Save; Caster Level Checks 29 and 33; +4 if against spell resistence
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Thursday October 10th, 2024 6:41:51 AM
{ NO!!!!!!!!!! }
Knowing that he is way to close to the creature... he lays hand on Des before poofing both away.
----------- Greater teleport Y20
Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Game Changer! Rd3 - coDM SteveK d6=2 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d8+20=25 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d6=3 ; 2d4=4 ; 2d6=7 ; d20=6 ; Thursday October 10th, 2024 8:46:08 AM
Yrűl grimaces, ready for the backlash, but diving in with Snickit and Dabz anyways. Her very first strike is a battle-changer! Constructs don’t bleed, but Snickit finds a chink in its armor to wound it and shadows temporarily blinds the monstrosity! And… because it is blind AND Hmerrin is flanking, the Shadowdancer is able to get in 2 more hits! And with every success, the dark cloud tries to suck the strength from the surface drow! (Yrűl make 3 Fort saves DC 24 or take 2, 2, and 5 Strength damage respectively!)
Hmerrin grits his teeth, and strives to get the beast's attention. His axes rend and take great chunks from the monster, striking 5 times thanks to Yrűl. And with every success, the dark cloud tries to suck the strength from Hmerrin! ( Hmerrin make 5 Fort saves DC 24 or take 1, 4, 4, 3 and 3 Strength damage!)
Desdichado collapses to the ground, a broken doll smashed and discarded. Highlight to display spoiler: { Des feels no pain, but looks about and can see his broken lifeless body, a golden thread attached at his hear from him to it. His left hand is slowly disappearing, turning into a thin red thread that is pointing upwards towards the flat disc of the Wold.}
Eight Ramirezes watch as Des dies. He starts up an inspiring song for the team, and backs up a few more steps while readying his bow. (ooc: DM interpreted as a 5’ step)
Nira cries out as the Paladin crumples, but she doesn’t have time to mourn. Its after her, so she tries to use that to the team’s advantage! "You want me? I'm right here!" she taunts, ready to lead it on a merry chase.
Gaffer rounds the edge of the platform just in time for his heart to wrench at the sight of Dez' falling body. The druid knows that a lot of his spells won't have any effect, so he tries to pull on one of the few that can, willing it to strike down the creature. But he forgot that Finger of Death doesn’t work on constructs, the spell has no effect.
Danko realizes he is way to close to the creature... he lays hand on Des and casts another Greater Teleport, but didn’t cast defensively… and the Devastator doesn’t strike out because Yrűl blinded it! (oh, you lucky dog!)
....
The Devastator, blinded, defensively casts a spell, shouting out a Blasphemy heard by every hero! Dazed: All Heroes take no actions for 1 round, can defend normally (Will DC 23 negates) Weakened: All Heroes take 7 Strength loss for 4 rounds. (Will DC 23 = -3 Str for 4 rounds) ooc: Roll separately for each effect.
Then it flies straight up to be 40’ above the cube. (Hmerrin and Yrűl, if not Dazed, can take an AOO) ............ Map in Email
"Devastator" AC 36 (-8 due Blind) Dam 297 Conditions: Attacks are Magic/Evil/Axiomatic/Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing; DR 15/epic; SR 33; Absorb good effects DC38; construct (immune to mind-affecting effects, bleed, disease, death effects, necromancy effects, paralysis, poison, sleep effects, and stunning); immune to acid, cold, electricity, and fire; Blinded (2);
Blind: –2 AC, no Dex to AC, -4 Str and Dex skill checks and Perception. Opponents have total concealment (50% miss chance)
(ooc: casting a spell that targets the monstrosity requires 2 Caster Level Checks.)
She couldn’t believe it. Des had dropped and not just dropped; he was a bloody smear on the pristine surface of the cube! Yrűl gasped in horror, before applying all her skill to her attacks. Snickit was particularly incensed and found a vulnerable spot, but then came the backlash. She felt the appalling darkness of the unnatural creature seek to leech her strength away, but her uncanny slipperiness enabled her to evade that blight.
Just as the abhorrent creature bolted upwards, she stabbed at it again.
~~~
Fort Saves: 36. 35. 36. Will Save: 31! (phew) Not Dazed. Actually got that wrong; should have been +16. Will Save: 34! (Just -3 ST.) Attack: 37 (39 with +2 for Flanking: no Dex * -2AC for being blind can take this to 41 effectively. Sneak attack applies as it is blind & flanked) Damage: 13 & 14 (26)
~~~
Yrűl at ST: 13 for 4 rounds.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. - As both are Morale bonuses – will take the higher of the 2.
Danko moves 5ft forward onto the next side of the cube and fires a ray towards the Devastator.
------
Moves to AC 20
Disintegrate Attack roll AC 23 (27 with +4 size modifier) Caster level checks, 36 and 33 Beat SR check 37 success Damage 138 or 16
Dazed - Save 32 pass Weakened - Scarab Protection 7 charges save 41
Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min
Inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Hmerrin fights off the effects of the dark cloud. And then again fights off the Whatever That Horrid Spell was. THEN, the behemoth takes off. He swings again.
He looks on in frustration as the creature climbs pretty darn fast. His Holy Bow will only serve to strengthen it.
Well, its blind - nice job Yrul - so he should be able to approach without getting squashed. Hmerrin puts his head down and climbs up after it.
---------- AoO hits ac 58 for 28 hp damage (bypass 5 DR)
Double move to same location 40' up, by climbing 45 degree angle to AL18 and then 45 degree angle back the other way. [Stealth 15, if needed....hope not]
In Effect Air Walk Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday October 10th, 2024 7:48:52 PM
Desdichado looks as the golden thread attached to his body and the thin red thread moving toward the Wold.
Oh, not again, he cries.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+23=41 ; d20+23=28 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+24=42 ; d20+30=49 ; 14d6=48 ; 20d6=65 ; 5d6=18 ; 5d6=20 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 12:21:18 AM
Nira isn't sure what other abilities this creature has, but in case it can heal itself she wants to do as much damage to the thing as she can. She fires off three spells in quick succession.
--------------- Will Saves vs DC23: 41, 28 = Pass
Standard action: use Spell Synthesis ability to cast two spells at the same time. Target gets -2 on both saves. -- Wiz: Defensively cast Disintegrate (using Bonded Item). Hit TouchAC 19. With no armor or Dex it might be a hit? Beats SR42. Fort save vs DC28. Fail=48pts damage. Pass=18pts. No DR. -- BW: Defensively cast Miracle (Disintegrate). Hit TouchAC 31. Beats SR49. Fort save vs DC31. Fail=65pts damage. Pass=20pts. No DR.
Free action: Draw Quicken Rod from Glove Swift: Defensively cast Magic Missile. 16pts damage.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+18=23 ; d20+24=43 ; d20+18=20 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 3:38:58 AM OOC: Caster level checks: 23, 43, 20
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+27=34 ; d20+27=40 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+20=32 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 6:16:57 AM
Gaffer is cursing his own foolishness when the spell blasts over him, he is rocked for a moment but regains his senses.
Watches the creature fly up, trying to think what he might be able do. Spell rod in hand, he conjures a pillar of flame on the entity, quietly whispering his hopes that a portion of the spell will bypass it's defences.
----- Will Saves; 34, 27; Pass; 3 Strength Damage Cast: Empowered Flame Strike, Maximised; Caster level checks 31, 32; Damage: 135, Half Fire and Half Divine; Reflex DC 24 for Half; Centered on AJ21 at the creatures height
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 d20+23=35 ; d20+23=25 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+37=44 ; d8+16=21 ; 2d6=9 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 6:38:17 AM
will saves:35, 25(-3 STR 4 rounds)
Ramirez isn't sure if his bow(holy) will hurt the creature, so he fires only one shot. hit AC44, damage 21(plus 9 holy) bardsong continues (OOC ignore the 19 roll, hit the wrong button)
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min mirror image- 8 images inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. -3 STR 4 rounds remaining
combat: 31/26/21 +2 good hope, +4 inspire courage, damage: 1d8+5, +2 good hope, +4 inspire courage, +5 arcane strike and (holy)
Whittling Away Rd4 - coDM SteveK d20+25=28 ; d20+25=38 ; d20+25=37 ; d20+25=38 ; d20+38=43 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 7:28:34 AM
Yrűl’s uncanny slipperiness evades any backlash, and from the cold, cold heart of Jericho Space, she stabs at thee … abhorrent creature.
Danko unaffected by the creature’ magiks, and takes a step forward to right himself on a new Side. Then there is a green ray, Disintegrate, that strikes the Devastator, and its not immune to Transmutions! It does, however, resist most of the power.
Hmerrin fights off the effects of the dark cloud and most of That Horrid Spell, and is able to strike it again as it flies up. Well, its blind: Hmerrin puts his head down and climbs up after it.
Desdichado looks, not again! He silently cries. Highlight to display spoiler: { Then something different happens, as his forearm disappears and the red thread lengthens, it changes direction to not go towards the Wold. Now? Now it is unravelling towards the monstrosity that is the Devastator!}
Nira uses her Mystic Theruge ability to cast 2 spells at once: and like Danko, they are both Disintegrate! Both make it through the Devastator’s magical defenses and it saves from both, but they still do some damage.
Gaffer curses his foolishness and fights off the dazing effect. OK, whittling down. A Flame Strike is only partially fire damage… and that seems to work! Though the Devastator saves, the divine power blasts through.
Ramirez fires only one shot from his holy bow, striking the Devastator, which absorbs the holy effect into healing!
............
The Devastator, blinded, knowing that his victims all resisted his spell to daze them, flies still further upwards (Hmerrin gets an AOO), hovering facing the cube, and casts a [b]Blade Barrier[/i] that blocks it from view. All the Air Walking Hmerrin and the heroes on the Cube can see is the blurry outline of the monstrosity through whirling blades shaped of pure force. (Cover: blocks line of sight for spells, Melee and Ranged attacks are at -4)
............ Map in Email
Hero Effects: All heroes have -3 Str for 3 rounds
"Devastator" AC 40 (-8 due Blind, +4 Cover) Dam 398 Conditions: Attacks are Magic/Evil/Axiomatic/Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing; DR 15/epic; SR 33; Absorb good effects DC38; construct (immune to mind-affecting effects, bleed, disease, death effects, necromancy effects, paralysis, poison, sleep effects, and stunning); immune to acid, cold, electricity, and fire; Blinded (1); Cover;
Blind: –2 AC, no Dex to AC, -4 Str and Dex skill checks and Perception. Opponents have total concealment (50% miss chance)
(ooc: casting a spell that targets the monstrosity requires 2 Caster Level Checks.)
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility d20+24=35 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 8:07:04 AM
The blade barrier has to go. Nira does her best to make it disappear as quickly as it came.
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Friday October 11th, 2024 8:19:27 AM ~~~
’If I could fly I can follow it...or do I not fall if I shadow step up after it?’ She really didn’t know how things worked out here. Still, perhaps she could keep it occupied until she was able to get Snickit and Dabz back into action. Yrűl focused her thoughts and called forth from the gloom a huge shadowy entity: (Huge Air Elemental. See below) The elemental could move at speed and she instantly dispatched it to harry the thing behind the blade barrier.
(The elemental will go around it and attackn from above.)
~~~
Please note: I am now away on vacation and do not expect to be able to post at all next week. If some kind soul can keep Yrul alive and active, that would great; especially the alive part. Snickit and Dabz would be so upset if she died!
~~~
Yrűl at ST: 13 for 3 rounds.
~~~ N Huge outsider (air, elemental, extraplanar) Init +13; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +13 DEFENSE AC 22, touch 18, flat-footed 12 (+9 Dex, +1 dodge, +4 natural, –2 size) hp 95 (10d10+40) Fort +11, Ref +16, Will +5 Defensive Abilities air mastery; DR 5/—; Immune elemental traits OFFENSE Speed fly 100 ft. (perfect) Melee 2 slams +17 (2d6+6) Space 15 ft.; Reach 15 ft. Special Attacks whirlwind (DC 21, 10-50 ft.) STATISTICS Str 22, Dex 29, Con 18, Int 6, Wis 11, Cha 11 Base Atk +10; CMB +18; CMD 38 Feats Combat Reflexes, Dodge, Flyby Attack, Improved InitiativeB, Iron Will, Mobility, Weapon FinesseB Skills Acrobatics +18, Escape Artist +18, Fly +23, Knowledge (planes) +7, Perception +13, Stealth +9 Languages Auran SPECIAL ABILITIES Air Mastery (Ex) Airborne creatures take a –1 penalty on attack and damage rolls against an air elemental.
Ecology Environment Plane of Air Organization solitary, pair, or gang (3–8) Treasure none Air elementals are fast, flying creatures made of living air. Primitive and territorial, they resent being summoned or doing the bidding of mortals, and much prefer to spend their time on the Plane of Air, swooping and racing through the endless skies. Although all air elementals of a similar size have identical statistics, the exact appearance of an air elemental can vary wildly between individuals. One might be an animated vortex of wind and smoke, while another might be a smoky bird-like creature with glowing eyes and wind for wings. An air elemental prefers to attack flying or otherwise airbone targets, not only because its mastery over flight gives it a slight advantage, but also because it detests the thought of having to touch the ground. An air elemental can move underwater, and although it is an elemental and thus runs no risk of drowning, it has no ranks in Swim and loses much of its speed and mobility when underwater. A huge air elemental is 32 feet long and weighs 8 pounds.
~~~ DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. - As both are Morale bonuses – will take the higher of the 2.
~~~
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 d20+20=39 ; Friday October 11th, 2024 7:10:53 PM
Ramirez also tries to dispel the blade barrier, and casts greater dispel magic check = 39
bardsong continues
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min mirror image- 8 images inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. -3 STR 4 rounds remaining
combat: 31/26/21 +2 good hope, +4 inspire courage, damage: 1d8+5, +2 good hope, +4 inspire courage, +5 arcane strike and (holy)
Whittling Away Rd4 - coDM SteveK Saturday October 12th, 2024 8:55:49 AM DM: the blade barrier disappears at Ramirez’ spell!.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- d20+42=60 ; d8+22=23 ; Saturday October 12th, 2024 10:20:05 AM
Hmerrin swings as the Horrid Whatever rises again.
The blade barrier appears and disappears. The fighter keeps climbing.
---------- AoO hits ac 60 for 23 hp damage (bypass 5 DR)
Double move to same location 80' up, by climbing 45 degree angle to AL18 and then 45 degree angle back the other way.
In Effect Air Walk Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+20=36 ; d20+20=34 ; Sunday October 13th, 2024 5:23:31 PM
Having found something that works Gaffer certainly isn't above reusing the same methods, another spire of flame appears in the sky above the creature.
----- Cast: Empowered Flame Strike, Maximised; Caster level checks 36, 34; Damage: 135, Half Fire and Half Divine; Reflex DC 24 for Half; Centered on AJ21 at the creatures height
----- Foresight: Can't be surprised or flat footed. +2 Insight bonus to AC; 200 Minutes Barkskin, Extended: +5 AC, 400 Minutes Magic Fang, Greater: +5 to Slam Attacks; 20 Hours Air Walk; 200 Minutes; Tread on air as if solid ground
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 14th, 2024 12:11:47 AM
Desdichado watches his arm disappear and the thread move toward the creature. "Uh...this doesn't seem good" he thinks.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday October 14th, 2024 3:46:42 AM
Nira ascends to get closer to the monster. She waits to see what Danko does and whether the devastator is still moving before she takes action.
------------ Delay Nira's actions until after Danko acts...
Move: Fly to AE20 (35ft up) Standard: Use Otherworldly Kimono to capture the Devastator. No Save.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Monday October 14th, 2024 6:53:32 AM
Ooc- Sorry, fighting off a bug.
Danko opens his wings and takes to the sky, up, straight up in pursuit.
———- Same position, 30’ feet up
The End of the Devastator - coDM SteveK Monday October 14th, 2024 5:41:48 PM
Ramirez dispelling the Blade Barrier gives Gaffer his opening, and another Flame Strike hits the monstrosity. The fire does nothing, but the divine power of the spell is just enough...
The whirling gears whine and clank, and start to stop spinning. More and more of the construct shuts down, and as it does the effect on the demonic and divine entities trapped within the Devastator start to pull away, the three parts separating from each other. Now it is the demon that howls in despair as its body parts turn into Woldsblood and streaks to a point where it disappears into the Shadowrealm.
The angelic part silently sighs, the first emotion on its face other than constant, eternal torture. It too, falls into Woldsblood and streaks to the Lands of Rest.
With a last whistle of escaping gas, the gears and pistons also stop moving and begins to float away, now just a chunk of junk in the vast emptiness of Jericho Space.
..............
Unlike the two monsters previous, the heroes have not suddenly found themselves back in the ruins of Dirt City. They are still where they are, about various parts on and above the orbiting gray cube.
Desdichado Highlight to display spoiler: { The consciousness that is Ferrin sees his entire left arm is unravelled. With the death of the Devastator, the blood red trickle again reverts to going back to the point in space where the Wold is... }
The heroes have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Monday October 14th, 2024 6:09:32 PM
{Nice job everyone,} Hmerrin sends as he air walks his way back down to the cube's surface. {I don't think we need to worry about that thing regenerating. So my guess is we need to bring Dez back first. Nira? Have you got a spell for that?}
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 14th, 2024 6:20:45 PM
(Posting for Yrűl)
"You've both done exceptionally well" Yrűl says to Snicket and Dabs. "Oh and you too!" she says to the shadowy elemental. "Oh and my friends in the Tide as well!" She didn't want to forget anyone.
But now that the Devastator is gone and they aren't back in Dirt City, she wonders if there is something they forgot to do. She thinks back - was some trap not disabled? Or maybe there is still a seal on or in the cube somewhere.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 14th, 2024 6:22:35 PM
Feeling mostly armless, Desdichado is glad the Devastator is gone and relieved that his "essence" is no longer travelling towards that thing.
Being dead and floating somewhere in the middle of Jericho Space, he's a little unsure of what else to do right now.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Monday October 14th, 2024 7:43:30 PM
Gaffer breathes a sigh of relief as the thing seperates into it's parts. It's also a small relief to see it's essence return to the wold, he was worried they were too far out for Des' soul to be safe.
"Sorry Nira, my own magic wouldn't be able to secure Des his own body, I hope you don't mind that we always leave it to you!"
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday October 14th, 2024 7:43:40 PM "Nice job blinding it Yrul, and .. uh .. friends. I think that made a big difference"
Nira flies down to Dez's body. "I think it's time you came back to us"
------------ Cast Miracle to petition Gargul for Dez's return
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Monday October 14th, 2024 11:19:09 PM
There's not much to say. Ramirez waits near Nira and Des, hoping the magic works, and hoping even more that Gargul will judge Des fairly.
bardsong ends
Active Effects: good hope-on everyone: +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min mirror image- 8 images -3 STR 3 rounds remaining
The Highest Spell - coDM SteveK Tuesday October 15th, 2024 7:56:11 AM
The Devastator is gone, but the heroes remain. while some thanks are given around, Nira knows what needs to be done: cast her highest level spell in supplication for Gargul. It is a familiar feeling for all the heroes, even Desdichado: nearly completing a task with a dead Paladin at their feet.
The Tide flows together, and then Nira casts, hoping for a Miracle.
This time is different. Maybe it is because they aren't in a different plane of existance, maybe it is the task is different, or circumstances, or ... well, it could be that every visit to Gargul is different. The heroes don't really know, because there has been no experience or written record of any trips. Just that they are sometimes successful to the noblest heroes.
This time... the heroes of The Tide see Jericho Space fade away, and the ShadowRealm fades in. Grayish darkness only lit by many tiny threads of Woldsblood, all trickling and flowing in the same direction. The heroes find themselves whisked along with Desdichado's mangled corpse, a feeling of speeding impossibly fast without taking a step or any passage of wind. Ahead, there is something shadowy, something not entirely able to make out...
It is, however, enough time to think about what is to happen and get in the right frame of mind...
Desdichado, Highlight to display spoiler: { You find as Nira casts her spell and the others fade out, you also fade, but the scene before you is different. You have no sense of sight, or speed, only a small glowing ball cradles you. }
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Tuesday October 15th, 2024 10:13:02 AM
Danko smirk as the construct is defeated. He then turns and flies to the paladin's side.
" Hand in there Desi ! "
================= Mage armor +4 AC Shield -negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC Stoneskin DR 10/adamantine (150 points) S/R 20 D/R electricity 10
Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. - As both are Morale bonuses – will take the higher of the 2.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Tuesday October 15th, 2024 7:15:23 PM
(Posting for Yrul)
Grayish darkness. Yrul could live with that. Maybe she should be more frightened, but the shadowy darkness did provide her with some comfort as she is whisked along.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Tuesday October 15th, 2024 7:17:01 PM
Desdichado feels himself being carried by the small glowing light, but carried to where? No other senses come to him right now.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Tuesday October 15th, 2024 10:04:10 PM
As they 'fly' along, Ramirez changes the color of his cloak to a muted gray, to match the landscape about them.
The Grey Forest - DM Mark Wednesday October 16th, 2024 3:23:11 AM
The greyish darkness shot through with tiny rivulets of Woldsblood speeds by, and soon the grey resolves into a grey forest filled with grey mists. The trees do not look like normal trees. They are strong, but devoid of life and clad in grey leaves. Dead leaves litter the ground here, but they are a dull grey and look like they have always been here, unchanging. It is deathly quiet here, and no wind stirs among the dull grey trees.
Looking around, you see your friends and Deschado's broken body lies still on the ground. You notice your clothing and gear has muted colors here. Even the blood on Deschado's body is a dull grey-red.
One thing stands out here. Running through this forest is a bright red river of Woldsblood. You think you can make out a pathway through the forest as well, running alongside the red river.
It also feels ... wrong here. Not exactly cold, but something like that. Like you don't belong here and you don't think you could ever feel warm here.
Perception DC 24:Highlight to display spoiler: {As you look at the red river of Woldsblood you think you see faces and forms in the water, some serene, some catatonic, and some a grimace a terror, but all are flowing along away from you.}
Deschado feels the pull on his soul from the Woldsblood. Deschado make a DC 30 Will save. Failure means his soul enters the river of Woldsblood, and his friends will see him begin to flow along the river away from them.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+38=56 ; Wednesday October 16th, 2024 5:30:13 AM
Gaffer frowns as he notices the shift in colours, and the growing feeling of not belonging sets him on edge. His eyes catch movement in the river, and he finds himself drawn to stare at it for a few moments before breaking away with a shake of his head.
"Should we carry Dez' body and walk beside the river?" He's comfortable in most forests, but he isn't sure he wants to stray from the path here.
----- Perception: 56
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday October 16th, 2024 5:17:13 PM
(Posting for Yrul)
Yrul thinks the grey forest could use a splash of color here and there - maybe some red leaves, or a blue-backed beetle here and there to spice it up.
"Oh, a river! Maybe someone left a boat and we could use it to travel!" she says. She thinks for a moment and decides that maybe quietly walking to wherever they are going is better after all.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil d20+24=26 ; Wednesday October 16th, 2024 5:18:47 PM
Will save: 26
Desdichado feels the pull of Woldsblood and finds it irresistible. He enters the river and wends his way to wherever it might be taking him.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Wednesday October 16th, 2024 7:09:12 PM
Ramirez nods at Gaffer. Yes, let's follow the river. I will help carry him.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Wednesday October 16th, 2024 7:16:07 PM
Nira sticks close by the group. As the one who cast the Miracle she's hoping that Gargul will be receptive to seeing them again so soon.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- d20+29=35 ; Wednesday October 16th, 2024 7:59:16 PM
[Perception 35]
Hmerrin takes note of the forms in the Woldsblood. The land just feels wrong. The fighter is unsure of himself, as this is nothing like previous visits to Gargul.
"Something's wrong," he murmurs.
He's about to agree with Gaffer's suggestion when suddenly he notices Dez is in the river, floating away. With a cry, Hmerrin jogs to keep up alongside the river.
OOC - Not sure if Dez's body went into the river or his soul did and the body is still on the bank. If body on the bank, Hmerrin will scoop it up before moving after the soul.
The Grey Forest - DM Mark Wednesday October 16th, 2024 11:01:37 PM
Tide finds themselves in a strangely uncomfortable place and assesses their situation. The grey mists seem to flow amongst the grey trees, though there is no discernable breeze to move them, which really just makes it all worse.
They decide to follow along the forest path that parallels the river, none wishing to push into the creepy forest anyway. Gaffer scoops up the Paladin's body, and Ramirez offers to help.
As Hemerrin looks at the River of Woldsblood flowing sluggishly along, his eyes suddenly go wide! He can see Deschado's face and form amongst those in the river! He moves along the path with the others, his eyes fixed on his friend's form.
For Deschado:Highlight to display spoiler: { Deschado feels a sense of sadness. He misses his friends, and is not quite sure where he is. He remembers the fight … and he remembers the fierce blows … and he remembers dying. It's happend twice to him, and he's quite sure it's not something he wants to get used to. Yech. But… then he feels the pull, an irresistible pull. The Woldsblood beckons. He moves, though he's not sure how, into the red flow of the Woldsblood. He suddenly feels a cool sense of peace. Ahhh. The sadness is gone. It's just calm. All is calm. Everything's fine now. Maybe death isn't so bad.}
As the Tide moves along, there is a growing apprehension. Deschado's spirit is in the river! Didn't they cast the spell? Didn't they do the right thing?
After about 20 minutes that seem like an eternity, they see a figure before them on the path. The figure wears sturdy boots and grey robes covered in a grey cloak. Though the cloak is drawn up over his head, they see a wizened face with grey hair and a close cropped beard. The figure puts out an upright hand. He says in a strong voice, "We do not get many living visitors here. Well, not all of you are living. Tell me, who you are and why you are."
The party carries Deschado's body, but his form continues to slowly flow past in the River.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Thursday October 17th, 2024 10:34:07 AM
Gaffer shrinks back slightly as the figure asks for an explanation and looks to... Oh. The figure in his arms.
Well, he's still hoping someone else can do the talking, this doesn't seem like the time to say the wrong thing.
He watches anxiously as Dez's soul moves further away.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Thursday October 17th, 2024 5:22:48 PM
Hmerrin pulls up and assesses the figure. The term "Gray Traveller" floats around in his head. Right. That's the title Gimp used for the Big Guy.
But maybe he's mistaken, or maybe this is a test, or maybe this is who he thinks it is and yet really doesn't know why they're here. Too many maybes.
"I'm Hmerrin. We're The Tide. We're in the midst of a quest to save the Wold and our friend was slain. We come to ask Lord Gargul for his return."
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday October 17th, 2024 7:14:38 PM
(Posting for Yrul)
"Oh, I wonder if he prefers the shadows, too?" Yrul wonders about the grey figure standing before them. She tries to stay in the back and out of sight as much as possible. Just let the others do the talking...
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Thursday October 17th, 2024 7:22:48 PM
Hmerrin said what needed to be said. This was a not a time for song or frivolity. Ramirez waits, still helping Gaffer carry Des.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday October 17th, 2024 7:50:41 PM
Desdichado floats along the river of Woldsblood. He let them down again, he thinks. As soon as he can he'll apologize to...to...what was his name? Hmm...what was he going to do again? Oh well...the river does feel nice.
He travels contently, carried by the current.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Friday October 18th, 2024 12:10:49 AM
Nira notices that the man is alone. No dead body with him. "Are you here to seek an audience with Lord Gargul too?"
"You're welcome to travel with us. I'm Nira"
The Grey Forest - DM Mark Friday October 18th, 2024 1:23:16 AM
This stranger has asked a question.
Hemrin answers. "I'm Hmerrin. We're The Tide. We're in the midst of a quest to save the Wold and our friend was slain. We come to ask Lord Gargul for his return." Nira kindly offers for this stranger to travel with them if he also seeks an audience with Gargul. Yrul mutters, wondering if this stranger prefers the shadows.
Everyone else remains silent. As Gaffer's holds Dez' body, his eyes dart anxiously between this stranger and the image of the Paladin floating away in the red river.
The grey stranger regards you all silently for a moment. His face is somewhat shadowed by his hood, but you can see that he looks old and careworn, almost sad.
"Your silence is … uncharacteristic for the Tide. You have come here seeking Gargul, to petition him for the return of your dead companion."
He gestures with the grey staff, and it momentarily glows with a bright white light. Standing among you is the translucent figure of Deschado, which is a bit jarring given that his broken body is there in Gaffer's arms as well.
"I know each of you. I placed each of you in that body you possess, one of you again quite recently in fact. And though I knew the moment Deschado died, it is still concerning to see you here so soon. But before we get to that, before we get to why Deschado is dead again, I want to know something else that we did not discuss when last we met.
"As I asked before, WHY ARE YOU?"
While he does not raise his voice, that last part reverberates through each of you, including the ghostly Deschado, shaking you to your core.
Though the question was not clear before, you understand that he is asking how you perceive yourself relative to the Wold, what you know of why you exist. Memories of your journey as heroes in the Wold seem to flood your minds - of family, of friends made and friends lost, of the lives you've touched, ways that each of you has made positive change in Dirt City and quelled threats to the Wold.
Even the most modest (or fearful) among you understands that this is a question that compels an answer that only you know for yourself. And it strikes you as odd that the God of Life and Death could actually be interested in each of your perspectives of why you exist in the Wold.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Friday October 18th, 2024 6:41:18 PM
ooc> Sorry for the delay.
" I am Danko Pureheart. Sorcerer and sometimes thief. I am from the Cinnamon Valley. I am the great grand son of Keven and Sarai. Grand son of Purehear and Danko.
As to why I am.... well, I didn't know until I joined my friends. We have been doing good. And doing good is... well, good. I'd like to keep doing good.
But right now I'm sad. Because my friend Desi is dead. I also does good. It would be nice if he would come back to us... so we could all keep doing good. "
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Friday October 18th, 2024 8:37:39 PM
Nira considers the question. It's actually something she's been wondering for a while.
"I think it's a matter of balance. There is a very fine balance between life and death, and the same balance must exist between good and evil. That's where I think we come in. We've been put on the Wold to be a force equal to the evil that exists. For all the murderers and tyrants of the wold, you have people like us who would stand against them to protect those who can't protect themselves"
"Des is also a part of this. His departure from the Wold tips the scales in favor of evil"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Sunday October 20th, 2024 7:12:35 PM
Hmerrin frowns.
"You're asking a deeper question, aren't you? Not 'Why are we here' or even 'Why we came to be The Tide', but why I exist in the first place?"
The fighter is silent for just a few moments, then just talks.
"I'm from an ordinary Hmana family in an ordinary town far from anywhere people want to go. And we were taught to be normal. That trying to be special or trying to be first or trying to be the best was nothing more than false pride and selfishness.
And then the Swords of Light came to the valley. And they fought against injustice and they helped people and they made us safe.
And from that moment, I knew. I knew I was to be one of them. Not some guy with an axe looking for treasures and fame. But someone who helped.
They guy who runs into a burning warehouse and throws people too busy fighting one another out the window so they'll live. The guy who tells the beaten orcs there's been enough killing and just go home. They guy who tells the Prince and the Houses we're not on any of their sides, and gets them to agree to a neutral zone where at least some of their citizens can live without fear. The guy who fights to protect the docks, fights to keep red grass from overwhelming the city, and who fights, for years, to stop a bunch of evil, extraplanar, shapeshifters from farming our people.
And now the guy who tries to fix it when the maharaja unleashes mega monsters to destroy the city, and more importantly, the people who live there.
And when I'm not doing that, I pick up a hammer and a saw, and I build someone a table. Everyone can use a table."
Hmerrin indicates the rest of The Tide. "Along the way, I met these fine people. My friends. Who see the same troubles and have the same answer. Someone has to fix this. And we're those someones."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Sunday October 20th, 2024 7:29:39 PM
Gaffer too takes a moment before speaking, he's not sure he likes the question, but worries about questioning a God.
"With all due, and genuine, respect. Isn't why the question for you? As you say, you placed us in our bodies. I'm not sure we get to decide why, or even know it." He takes a breath to steady himself then carries on.
"We each exist within the context of those that came before us, that surround us while we are and that will come after us when we are not. Just as a fallen oak decays to make fertile soil for a seed to grow in its place. Within the Sargrass plains I saw many other heroes, whose efforts are the reason the wold I live in exists, and who protected us from many dangers past. Years ago we came across a group of newer adventurers, striving to root out danger within their city. I still remember what it was like to be a sapling, shielded from the heat of the sun by the branches and leaves above. For now I am the great oak, that can withstand the sun and the rain and shield those still growing in the soil below. I know too that one day I will pass, and others will rise up in my place. If I could not exist without the care of others, how could I deny those who need me to show the same care to them? There is no question, I am me because I am, and because we all are."
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Sunday October 20th, 2024 10:23:45 PM
Desdichado feels a strange sensation, as if he is both floating down the river and standing before the others at the same time. Then, the shock of the grey man's voice focuses his attention.
He thinks as best he can for a while, his still confused by the pull of the Woldsblood river. "I guess in many ways I'm still the same young man who was devestated by finding out how untrustworthy his father is. I left home not knowing where I would go. I've spent several years trying to make up for that - hiding who I am, being friendly and yet still keeping most people at a distance. It's easy enough to come in and 'save the day' and do things that help people, and yet still have that nagging feeling inside."
"But at the same time I'm more than that young man. I've found friends - ," he looks at the others as he says that, " - who I can trust. I've learned that I can depend on them and not have to figure out all the answers myself, even when the way they solve problems might not be the same way I would do it. The ghostly image looks toward Danko with faintest hint of a smile at that last remark.
"So, why? 'Making the Wold at better place' sounds like a nice answer. But, I guess I am why I am because I make that choice every day."
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Monday October 21st, 2024 4:39:01 AM ~~~
”Why?...Why, why, why. Well, why not? Why, I am colour in the darkness. I am the speaker of small things. Sorry guys, but you ARE pretty small.” Yrűl directed the last comment at her weapons and the little flying crystalline ‘insects’ around her.”Why, I am the joy in the gloom. Why? Because life is short and should be enjoyed and there should always be time enough to dance through the shadows.” She smiled happily at this conjuring mental images of dancing shadows. Candles were very good for those.
[b]~~~
Many thanks Ryan for looking after Yrűl so ably!
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~ Good Hope on everyone +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls duration 20min Endure Elements.
Inspire courage(all that can hear Ramirez) +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. - As both are Morale bonuses – will take the higher of the 2.
~~~
Shadows in the Forest - coDM SteveK Monday October 21st, 2024 7:11:25 AM
At the Gray One's command to the Tide, whispers from many former voices come from the forest about the heroes.
"Why, why, whyyy..."
"...was alive to be remembered, to make a name, to..."
"I protected mine, saved mine. Mine..."
"Birthed another ended my life. Why was I..."
"I don't know whhhyyy??"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Monday October 21st, 2024 5:25:17 PM Why? Well, why not? But I guess that's the bard answer.
For me, it's because I can't stand by and do nothing while evildoers seek to oppress and hurt others. If no one opposes them, then no new songs will be written and sung of their heroic deeds, and that too will make the Wold a darker place.
The Grey Forest - DM Mark Monday October 21st, 2024 9:31:30 PM
As the Tide considers Gargul's question, each answers from their perspective.
Danko speaks simply of doing good for good's own sake. He also shares his sadness at Deschado's death.
For Nira, it's a matter of balance, and in the case of the Tide, balancing evil in the Wold with good. Deschado is part of that balance in the Wold.
Hmerrin recalls how heroes from his childhood inspired him to be the one that stands up for what is right, taking actions great and small that make a difference - but always in a way that helps those around him.
Gaffer regards Gargul for a moment, suggesting that Gargul should already know the why, since he is the one that placed them in their bodies. That mortals do not get to decide why or even know why. Then he shares that all mortals owe their existence to those that came before, and have a responsibility for those that come after.
Deschado's ghostly form stands among the living, even as his broken body is held by his friends. He finds that he can speak, and his voice is strong - which surprises both himself and his friends. He tells how his family upbringing made it hard to trust people, but that he has learned to trust his friends here. And he finds he must choose every day to make the Wold a better place.
Yrul speaks of joy and small things, and that life is short and must be enjoyed. Similarly, Ramirez answer is simple - standing against evil is necessary because it creates tales that can live on and, tales that shine light in dark places and can inspire others to great deeds as well.
The Grey Wanderer stands before this group, listening carefully as each speaks. He reaches up and pulls the hood of his cloak back. You can see that he has dark hair, greying at the sides. He looks tired. But it looks like the sadness in his face has diminished somewhat. And maybe not so much sadness as a sense that he carries a tremendous weight.
"Why you do what you do is far more important than what you do. Many do great deeds, but they do it for themselves and such deeds mean little in the end. Danko speaks of doing good for good's sake. Remember this. Doing the right thing for the right reasons.
"Gaffer, you say I should already know the why for each of you. I know a great many things, but I'll let you in on a little secret. The gods are not all knowing. While we may be able to read people's thoughts and discern surface motives, why some choose evil and some choose good often remains a mystery to us. So I thank you each for sharing what you understand of why you do what you do. I am encouraged by this. And little encourages me anymore.
"Deschado reminds you that friends are the family you choose - never forget this.
"You perform great, heroic deeds, and I have seen them. But Hmerrin and Yrul remind you - never forget the value of doing small things, for small things often yield rewards you never envisioned.
"Nira - you are right. Good balances evil. But the hearts of mortals contain both good and evil - strive to enable others to choose good. And you are right that Deschado is part of this balance in the Wold. It is for this reason that I restore him to you.
"But, as I mentioned, I am sad to see you here so soon after your last visit, once again petitioning me for the return of the same one that has fallen. Tell me, why did this happen, and what could any of you have done to prevent it? What lessons have you learned by this? If life has nothing more to teach you, then there is little need for life."
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 21st, 2024 9:53:24 PM
"Well, I've certainly given that some thought," says Desdichado to the question posed to the group. "I think I may have risked too much - the first attack from that creature grievously injured me. I considered whether I should try to back away, although I'm not sure I could have gotten far enough away to avoid another swipe from it. Even the bit of healing Domi provides me wouldn't have been enough to survive a second blow."
"I suppose I wondered whether it might attack elsewhere or if someone else might be able to provide some healing since others had quickly come to join the battle. In the end - my end - I saw that it particularly wanted to focus on eliminating me."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday October 21st, 2024 10:51:14 PM "At the time, making Des invisible seemed the best way to protect him from further attacks. We weren't to know that the creature could still see him. Helping defend Des was the best play for my spells, and if it were to happen again, I would still try and find a way to protect by brother"
"Maybe with a different spell though"
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 4:42:32 AM ~~~
”We were too slow.” Yrűl answered with a heavy heart.”So sorry Des. I wanted to help. I really did, but – well, I’m not really a warrior as such and even with my little friends’ help, I still need time to pick out certain vital spots.” Her momentary despondency evaporated as she beamed with pride. ”But we did! Snickit came to the rescue! And we blinded the nasty. She paused and looked quickly down to her left. ”Oh...you helped too Dabz, of course you did. We’re a team.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 6:31:09 AM
" Desi is brave and selfless and only wants to be an agent of the greater good. Could we have done something different? Always. Have we learned something. Yes, as a wise person always does. Would Desi, or any of us have put themselves in harms way for each other... or others for that matter... yes. A resounding yes. So, if you're asking if Desi, or anyone of us will be dying again soon... while I certainly hope note, it's certainly a possibility. We have people to save and a great evil to defeat. Death is always a possibility. "
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 7:01:24 AM "We allowed ourselves to be seperated when we knew danger was coming. We should have made more effort to be close enough to support each other." Gaffer shares his own thoughts as he recalls running over the edge of the cube to see Dez already fallen.
Shadows in the Forest - coDM SteveK Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 7:02:41 AM
The whispers among the trees are silent, they do not have answers only excuses.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 5:18:54 PM
"We're fighting ultra powerful mega monsters here," Hmerrin points out dubiously. "We bunch up and if the next one has an area effect spell, we're toast. We spread out and it appears in front of one of us, that one is toast.
Dez went down inside of what, ten seconds?"
The fighter shakes his head, resigned.
"We've tried buffing early and our spells get dispelled going through the portal. We've tried not buffing and end up a mile underwater. Not sure about life is teaching us anything except this is really hard."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 6:18:07 PM
Gaffer's shoulder slump slightly "Hmerrin's right. The truth is, even if we make all the right choices, there's no guarantee that any of us will survive this. We still don't know what we're up against next, and all we can do is try our best."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 7:30:56 PM
"Yep. What Gaffer said. "
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 7:49:22 PM I'm not sure if there was much more we could have done. If it wasn't him, then it would have been one of the rest of us. But knowing that, we still would have went anyway.
Ramirez nods at Hmerrin. We're fighting some powerful beings, and no single strategy seems to work. We need to keep trying new things and hope for the best.
The Grey Forest - DM Mark Tuesday October 22nd, 2024 9:53:28 PM
The party ponders the question on what they learned from the events that brought them here.
Deschado thinks perhaps he risked too much, though as he recalls events he concludes that no one could have withstood such an onslaught as he felt from the creature that killed him.
Nira laments the creature's abiltiy to see through her invisibility spell. She wonders if perhaps a different spell might have helped.
As Gargul listens to this, he nods at time and frowns at others. Actually, frowns more. He always seems to be frowning.
Yrul wonders if perhaps the Tide was too slow, though he is proud of the little allies flitting about him and the help they provided.
Danko says, " Desi is brave and selfless and only wants to be an agent of the greater good. Could we have done something different? Always. Have we learned something. Yes, as a wise person always does. Would Desi, or any of us have put themselves in harms way for each other... or others for that matter... yes. A resounding yes. So, if you're asking if Desi, or anyone of us will be dying again soon... while I certainly hope note, it's certainly a possibility. We have people to save and a great evil to defeat. Death is always a possibility. "
Gaffer thinks the Tide may have been too separated at the time of the attack, that had they been closer perhaps they could have been better able to help.
Hmerrin corrects Gaffer, suggesting spreading out could have saved them had it been a different adversary. Danko agrees.
Rameriz doubts there was much more they could have done. He agrees with Danko that any of the Tide would have put themselves in harms way to defeat this foe and save Dirt City, and perhaps the Wold.
Gargul listens to all this. Finally, he says, "You already know the most important part, and have demonstrated this. That each of you would be willing to give your lives for the others. There is no greater love than this.
"One thing I know from having groups such as your pass through here, there are times when providing multiple targets can lessen the impact.
"And,sometimes folks just die."
Then, the figure gestures, and one of the trees transforms into a great wooden thrown. At the same time Gargul's robes and hair change to a jet black as he grows to a huge size. He sits down on this throne. He still wears a frown, and still seems touched with sadness, but his grandeur is almost overwhelming.
Then he gestures with his staff. You watch as the broken body of Deschado rises, and his wounds seem to close. Interestingly the body becomes clean as well - the blood is washed away, his clothing is mended and new, and his armor almost shines in this grey place. Almost.
In a thunderous voice, he says, "DESCHADO!" Deschado's spirit is suddenly jerked into the body, and he gasps as the Paladin sucks in a breath and staggers.
"NOW, THIS IS THE IMPORTANT PART. IF ANYBODY ASKS, ESPECIALLY DOMI, I WAS ALWAYS AS YOU SEE ME NOW. DOMI CAN BE INSUFFERABLE AT TIMES, AND I REALLY DON'T NEED HIM KNOWING I MET YOU AS EQUALS. I'D NEVER HEAR THE END OF IT."
"IS THERE ANYTHING MORE BEFORE I SEND YOU BACK?"
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 4:56:54 AM ~~~
”Nope, your Worshipfulness.” Yrűl replied, trying her best not to be completely overwhelmed by the presence of the god. She certainly was not about to start asking gods for things, even simple questions. She knew that there were far wiser heads than hers in the group. ’Welcome back, Desii! Snickit got a fantastic shot in on the Big Nasty for you’. She sent to the Paladin, finally getting the knack of the mental conversation trick.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day ~~~
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 7:51:49 PM
Nira shakes her head. She briefly considers asking Lord Gargul for a heads-up on what they might face next. Knowing that would give them more time to prepare and avoid a repeat visit here.
He has already returned Des's soul and she doesn't want to push things and ask for more.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/39 mage armor and shield-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 7:59:01 PM
Danko walks up a bit towards Gargul, reaches into his bag and says...
" Would you like a carrot?.... sir.... "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 241/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 8:00:04 PM
"Thank you, Lord Gargul" Hmerrin replies.
He considers a moment. "If it is not too much trouble, Gimp didn't quite remember the verse you gave him to tell us.
Sea, Air, Star-liv’ed, Fire and Earth arriv’ed Though immortal their coil Let heroes be the foil Avatar forms once vanquished Maharaja plot…
and he kind of stopped there. You wouldn't happen to recall the ending?" he asks hopefully.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 8:16:47 PM
Ramirez shakes his head. They had already been granted an amazing gift, to ask for more would be hubris. Still, he looks on with interest at the possible response to Hmerrin's question.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 9:19:54 PM
Gaffer is glad that Hmerrin remember to ask as it had long since slipped his own mind. He tries to recall anything else he might of forgotten if there was anything, he can't remember.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: -135/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 9:55:28 PM
Desdichado, now freshly back in his own whole body, bows his head reverently toward Gargul. "Thank you sir."
Then with a smile he adds, "And your secret is safe with me."
"Ready to head back?" he asks the others. "Maybe next time some kind of firey monster can kill me."
(OOC: Thanks, Mark! I definitely didn't like Dez going down again so quickly, but you turned this one into a great 'group exercise'!)
From Grey Forest to Grey Cube - DM Mark Thursday October 24th, 2024 1:25:00 AM
Most of the Tide remain quiet standing before a god that holds life and death in his hand.
Yurl calls him "Your Worshipfulness." Which earns him a frown.
Then Danko offers him a carrot. Gargul stares at the Sorcerer for a moment. "THIS ONE'S … NOT RIGHT."
Deschado thanks Gargul, and assures the god that his secret is safe with the Paladin. The dark god nods to the Paladin.
Finally, Hmerrin repeats the rhyme that Gimp had delivered when the Tide was sent on this last, desparate quest. He asks Gargul for the ending.
Gargul smiles at this, which is actually rather odd - with his face is a somewhat perpetual frown and a constant look of sadness, a smile just seems to make it all a bit worse. Still, there is a bit of kindness behind this smile, which you think is quite rare from the stern god.
"GIMP DOES INDEED HAVE TROUBLE SOMETIMES. I BELIEVE IT CONCLUDES 'MAHARAJA PLOT ENDED.' YOU SEE, THE MAHARAJA HAD A CONTINGENCY PLAN IN THE EVENT OF HIS DEATH. YOUR ARE ENDING WHAT HIS DEATH SET IN MOTION. SEA, AIR AND STARS - THESE YOU HAVE STOPPED. YET BEFORE YOU ARE FIRE AND EARTH.
"GO NOW, KNOWING YOU GO WITH MY BLESSING. WHAT YOU ARE DOING MATTERS. IT MAY SAVE DIRT CITY, AND IN DOING SO MAY SAVE THE WOLD."
And with that, he raises his staff and slams it down on the hard earth. The loud CRACK causes you all to blink, and when you open your eyes the grey forest is gone. You stand on a featureless, grey cube. Around you is a silent inky blackness, punctuated here and there by small points of light in the night sky.
As a final gift from Gargul, everyone is restored to full health. You also find that you are fully rested and able to prepare spells and such as you normally might each day.
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Thursday October 24th, 2024 4:56:33 AM ~~~
”Oooh, wasn’t he a nice god?.” Yrűl cooed to her little friends. ”He just needs a bit more colour in his life. That would make him so much happier, I’m sure. And the shadows would be so much prettier too, don't you think?” She added with totally misplaced certainty.
”So….the whole getting back thing. How does that work?”.[/i] She asked the others. Wasn’t it supposed to be automatic or something like that?
[b]~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day
~~~
Yrűl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale gree dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an irridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday October 24th, 2024 5:25:22 PM
Transported back, feeling healthy and whole, Desdichado looks around to see if things are starting to look better in Dirt City.
"Sorry for that little detour. I guess fire is next. With our luck we'll transport right into the middle of an active volcano. Any thoughts on preparations?"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Thursday October 24th, 2024 5:50:56 PM
"Let's give it sec, Yrul," Hmerrin replies.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Thursday October 24th, 2024 8:13:19 PM
" I have a resist energy spell... I can reasonably protect myself against fire. Some others too... just a thought "
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Thursday October 24th, 2024 8:14:49 PM
Ramirez looks around. Well if we are stuck here, the view is fantastic.
And if we do need a way home, I just might be able to help with that.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 208/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Thursday October 24th, 2024 8:39:55 PM "I'm going to need to think on what I can bring to the next fight, I don't think fighting fire with fire is the way to go." Gaffer prepares his spells as slowly as he can as he tries to decide what to prepare next.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Friday October 25th, 2024 2:35:52 AM "Wait. Before casting any spells just wait a moment. After every monster we fight we magically return home before facing the next. Let's give it a minute or two to see if that happens. We won't be going anywhere until we activate that stone anyway"
The View is Fantastic - coDM SteveK d100=49 ; Friday October 25th, 2024 6:49:06 AM
Surprisingly, the Tide find themselves back on the featureless gray cube, exactly where they were before their visit with the god of life and death. Well, not exactly, Desdichado is alive!
While there is some speculation, Hmerrin and Nira counsel to wait...
One-onethousand, Two-onethousand... And Gaffer's Time Stone flashes, and the heroes find themselves back at a ruined Dirt City with the former-slaves-now-refugees camp at the entrance of the ruins that mark the entrance of the Catacombs.
......
The heroes have the initiative.
Yrűl (Nick K) HP:211/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Friday October 25th, 2024 10:23:22 AM ~~~
”Oh, we’re back again. And not wet either.” Yrűl commented excitedly. It was, by all accounts to be the ‘earthy thing’ next. Earthy sounded pretty shadowy and gloomy to her. That would help, but she wasn’t exactly adept at burrowing. Hopefully, the others would have some very helpful magic. Again. The resistances bestowed upon her and her little friends were extremely helpful. She’d go so far as to say necessary.
Hitherto she’d been most concerned that she simply wasn’t much help at all to The Tide. That last encounter changed that, but she now found herself wishing that she wasn’t so needed. Poor Desi had died. Again. The man was so brave!
”So, what happened while we were gone?” She cheerily enquired, forgetting that almost no time at all elapsed in their absence. Now everyone, including herself had full access to all their magics; so it seemed likely that they’d be charging off again very soon. She tried to think what she might need to function well amidst all the earthiness, but nothing sprang to mind.
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day
~~~
Yrűl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale gree dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an irridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Friday October 25th, 2024 5:49:59 PM Well, the stone seems to still be working. So I guess it is time to prepare for the next jump. What do you think, fire resistance?
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Saturday October 26th, 2024 9:01:13 PM "That would seem wise" Nira responds to Ramirez. "Does anyone need to visit the Catacombs before we go? I'll hold off casting the spell until we're all ready"
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Sunday October 27th, 2024 2:46:47 PM
Desdichado climbs up some of the nearby rubble to take a look at the city before they go. Hopefully the destruction is even less now.
"A few of us can put up some protection from fire damage. I'm not sure what else we can do to prepare, really."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 41(T:24/FF:32) CMD:43) Sunday October 27th, 2024 5:22:34 PM
Gaffer suddenly realises what he should have asked and groans to himself. "Not knowing if we'll be going to another plane is a bit of a hindrance. This is probably the time we're most likely to appear somewhere immedietely harmful."
Gaffer will offer both Resist Energy and Endure Elements to anyone who wants it pre or post teleporting. Planning to wait until after teleporting to cast them on himself.
Gaffer will shift into a fire elemental before they activate the stone. He will cast a Barkskin spell however, as he has a few spare.
[i]----- Wildshape; Huge Fire Elemental Barskin; +5 to AC [i/]
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Sunday October 27th, 2024 7:25:18 PM
Hmerrin takes in Dirt City.
"Three down, two to go," he notes. "Hopefully without any more side trips."
With fire being next, the fighter checks his ring. "I've got fire resistance," he relays. "So, no need for the spell out of the gate anyway."
"Same deal, though. Let's get a good night sleep. We're healed but spellcasters still need some rack time and get those spells back."
Hmerrin takes his own advice and gets some sleep.
The next day he's up and next to Gaffer.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Monday October 28th, 2024 6:34:08 AM
Danko agrees with Hmerrin.
"I'm all for some sleep... "
The Meal is... nourishing - coDM SteveK Monday October 28th, 2024 6:47:17 AM
Yrűl speaks excitedly with the refugees that she is not wet. They in turn confirm the heroes have been gone only about 5 minutes. A little math by The Tide confirms the passage of time for the refugees each time nearly matches the time our heroes have spent underwater, in the air, and in Jericho Space.
Desdichado climbs up some of the nearby rubble to take a look at the city, and Hmerrin also looks around. The systematic leveling of Cloaktown and Dartville is gone, again replaced with the swath of destruction that looks like a child running though leaves... In fact, four fifths of Dirt City look like that, only North Pack, South Pack, and Blade City appearing as if they were engulfed by a huge conflagration.
Counting down Gimp's verse, the heroes agree to settle down for the night and prepare various spells and abilities that could help them in against a fire monster in a place of fire, hoping that it will not take them to another plane of existence.
The refugees offer the heroes the meal they had prepared, as well as bedding cobbled together from various locations. When morning comes, the heroes take an hour for meditation, study, and a meal, before...
..............
ooc: Heroes have the initiative. Please indicate relative location and any preparation spells and abilities set.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 141/190 CMD38 Monday October 28th, 2024 6:13:06 PM
Ramirez thanks the refugees for the meal and then offers endure elements and resist fire to anyone interested.
After that, he is ready to go.
Active Effects: endure elements resist fire(30) duration 110 minutes
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:34/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday October 28th, 2024 6:57:48 PM
"Thanks for the meal" says Desdichado, "And hopefully we'll see you all again in a few minutes."
The paladin holds onto his greataxe and tries to be ready for ending up somewhere...warm.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:39 T:25 FF:30 CMD:52) DR 5/- Monday October 28th, 2024 7:26:12 PM
Hmerrin also thanks the refugees. "This place looks a lot better when its intact," he promises.
The fighter places himself in front of Gaffer and hopes its the front when they appear.
"And here we go," he breathes, waiting for the druid to do his thing.
”I think we’re sort of all set...ish.” Yrűl said in a most unconvincing fashion. She wasn’t at all keen on being burnt and crispy. Just as bad – all that fire would likely mean a decided lack of shadow. She definitely needed the proffered protections, having none of her own.
”Thanks for taking care of us so nicely” She Thanked the refugees, genuinely feeling rather spoilt at that attention and care. Now she and her little gang just needed to do something nice for them: like stop a fiery nasty. It really wasn’t much of a plan, but it was all the plan she had. That and hiding! As soon as they appeared – wherever it was they were going, she was going to slip into whatever gloom she could find.
Yrul can Hide In Plain Sight)
~~~
DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 0/2 per day
~~~
Yrűl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale gree dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an irridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31-- CMD 37 -- HP 145 hp Monday October 28th, 2024 8:13:29 PM
After a good sleep and a fine breakfast, Danko joins the others. Before transporting to the next leg of the mission, he'll cast a few spells on himself: Mage armor and Resist Energy- fire.
Then, staff of power in hand, he will be ready to go.
---------- S/R 20 D/R electricity 10 necklace of adaptation
Before transporting Mage armor +4 AC Resist energy 30 pts fire 170 minutes
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 257/257 AC: 40(T:24/FF:31) CMD:48) Monday October 28th, 2024 9:38:08 PM
Gaffer waits for the others to gather around him and gives them each a moment to confirm they are ready, then triggers the stone.
----- Wildshape; Huge Fire Elemental Barskin; +5 to AC
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 257/257 AC: 43(T:22/FF:36) CMD:46) Monday October 28th, 2024 9:39:45 PM
[OOC: Correcting Header]
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 34/18/28 -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Tuesday October 29th, 2024 12:28:55 AM "We keep going back in time and dealing with these monsters, but when we return here nothing has changed. The city is still in total ruin. It might be that even just one of the creatures can cause all of this destruction. It seems the only way we're going to save the city is by defeating every one of them" Nira observes. "I hope Lila keeps her word"
Nira casts her daily assortment of spells and then uses her Wand of Endure Elements and Wand of Resist Energy on the party.
She stands behind Gaffer.
--------- Use Wand of Endure Elements on Yrul, Hmerrin, Des, Danko, Gaffer. (27/50 charges) Use Wand of Resist Energy (Fire 30) on Nira, Yrul, Hmerrin, Des. (36/50 charges)
Spells in effect: Arcane Sight ... Barkskin ... Contingency (FoM) ... Darkvision ... Mage Armor ... Magic Vestment x 2 ... Moment of Prescience ... Overland Flight ... Resist Fire (30) ... Roses Temperature Control ... See Invisibility ... Telepathic Bond
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