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The second descent

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 42b
Tuesday March 25th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Jus awakes early, well rested. While everyone waits for Nonam to finish preparing for the day, Jus packs his tent and belongings. He speaks quietly with Chala, letting her know if she needs anything further or any help contacting others, please let him know.

"I would join you, if you will have me," Chala tells the three. "I have no reason to return to my home, though one day I will have to. I wish to see the world, as my brother did. I will give you my pledge of Companionship, which to us is a pledge nearly as strong as one of family."

"Hey guys!" says Jus, "Time to see what was in the lower regions of that tower. We certainly cannot turn away now, with the sacrifice our companion has made."

Gareth wakes up refreshed and ready for action. He eats, packs up, and waits for everyone to get up and he says, "Let's go!" and heads for the stairs.

Jus leads the others into the depths of the tower, pointing out the location of the trap.

The party descends the stairs, explaining the details of the circumstances of Korok's death as they pass by the relevant places. There is a 10' landing at the bottom of the stairs, then the block of stone now back in the wall at the 20' point, and the pressure plate is at the 30' point. You are standing in front of this now. This pressure plate covers the entire 10' square of hallway. 20' past it is a chamber beyond.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday March 25th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

John says: To DDavid: Hope I bring back fond memories with the "Hey guys!" (i.e. Togmahon).

David says: ......Gareth dove under the spider thing to get his sword to continue the fight with only a daggar to fight with. He even grabbed it when it was burning hot. That should be worth something.

Jerry says: I agree. Hmm...Usually a heroic action in the past has involved the risking of yourself for others type of thing, however you could stretch it to say that you were doing this to try to save the party since you realized that this is quite a small group. Ok, I'll give one this time. Normally, I would give XP for this only. Job well done David.

Tom says: Two blondes were walking through the forest, when they came across some tracks. The first blond says "I kknow what type of tracks these are. They're bear tracks."

The other blonde shakes her head. "NO, those are deer tracks."

They begin to argue. "Bear Tracks! Deer Tracks!"

They continue to argue. A few minutes go by, and the two blondes are hit by the train, ending the argument.

Jerry says: Tom, I need a list of spells memorized. I would highly suggest that you move some Ability Scores around and up your Wisdom score to an 17 or 18 because of the bonus spells you receive. (Check under Wisdom in the front of the PHB2.) According to house rules, you may memorize spells outside of your allowed areas if you can provide your god with why you need them. Since this group has no Cleric of any kind, I would allow you to carry CLWounds. The party needs you to carry around 2 CLW's plus one of something else. This is just a suggestion, of course.

Jerry says: Chala receives 200 xp for her exceptional entrance.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 43
Wednesday March 26th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
(Hmm....I thought we were at the opening...)

Before getting to the opening Gareth says, "I wonder if the flying creature that was invisible is the same creature that got sucked into that pentagram? They were both small."

Chala informs the party, "I am Khdack. I speak to the Mother, and She speaks to me. I am Her voice, and she graces me with the Kimring, abilities that not even a mage can copy, for the abilities are of the Mother herself, and not I."

Underground, she listens to the tale of the day earlier, and looks at the spot that is the pressure plate, then smiles. She stands up. "Follow me."

She goes upstairs, and looks about, and looks for a sizable piece of the ruined tower. She finds one she thinks will work.

"If we move a large piece of this down, and place it between the wall and the slab, it may close, but we will still have a way out."

Jus says, "Well, 10' is an easy jump. I say we take turns jumping the trap. If anyone triggers it, the others run to the other side join them." If everyone is in agreement, Jus volunteers to be the first one to go and, taking a running start, jumps over the trap.

Jus easily hops over the trap making the jump by at least two feet.

After approaching the stone block, Gareth begins his careful advancement procedure again. He moves over the trap by hopping, jumping, etc., to prevent tripping it.

Gareth also makes a perfect jump easily clearing the 10 feet trigger stone and begins again to advance carefully. He says, "This time let's be more careful! People get killed when we get careless," and continues down the hall toward the open area.

Nonam's set to explore. He isn't too eager to get beat on again, so he hangs around at the rear.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday March 26th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Tom says: Is that a interesting way to say I am a Druid?

Jerry says: I love it!!!

JK: I'll send out the stuff you asked about soon, but things are still hectic for me so it might be Sat or Sun

John says: How about Jus' exceptional empathy for the state of Gareth's concern for him. Jus was willing to give up the excitement of exploring the remainder of the tower to ease the burden on Gareth's mind. Instead he told Nonam the scroll should be used to move the stone so they could join the rest of the party. ;-)

Jerry says nothing.

Jerry says: Sorry about the long delay. I was trying to configure my modem to the Windows 95 to play Civilization online and goofed something up. The result is that I'm logging on at 33,??? rather than 28,000 BPS and have the 56,??? upgrade ordered. The Sportster modem people were very good with their tech help. The most friendly I've ever encountered. They actually called back the next day (today), after we got it fixed (yesterday late) to see if everything was still running. They also conferred with AOL about my problem to see that their techs added the scenario to their database. Very Nice.

By Standard rules, only Priests receive bonus spells, and that is why her Wis is low. The other reason is because most of her abilities are at a minimums (Dex is high so she is harder to hit. I can move one point from CON to WIS and 1 point from INT to WIS, giving her two extra 1st level spells.

To what spells she has memorize, I shall go with 2 Cure Light Wounds, 1 Faerie Fire. (The healing sphere one of the accessible spheres for druids.)

Included is a new character sheet.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 44
Thursday March 27th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Chala will wait to see if any will heed her suggestion, even though it appears as if two members have already jumped across the plate.

Gareth advances battle ready.

Jus walks beside Gareth, looking around for anything interesting.

The hallway opens into a 30' square chamber. Lying in the middle of this dust covered floor are two dead goblins, their crude spears still clutched in their hands. At the far end of the chamber, a statue of a horned bipedal creature stands in a shallow alcove. The statue points toward you with one cruel finger, and its stony visage bears a menacing grin. The chamber has four doors, two on the right and two on the left. The closest doors on either side hang open on their hinges.

Before Nonam jumps across the trapped area, he gets down on his hands and knees in front of the plate. He checks to see if it is still depressed or if it looks like it could go off again. With his great knowledge of traps, he determines for certain... that he has no idea. Then nodding to himself he gets back up and jumps... (he gets a running start first of course)... and lands short by an inch.

With a click and the sound of a spring going off, the party tenses....

.

.

.

.

and nothing happens. (hehe)

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Thursday March 27th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Jerry says: JK is going out of town until Sat or so to present a paper at a conference that he wrote. We wish him good luck.

Jerry says: JK also just moved into a new house, so congratulations JK.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 45
Friday March 28th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Chala shakes her head, waiting a few seconds to see if the slab will begin to close.

Gareth says to Chala. "You have time. Come across. We can open it again." Then looking at Nonam, "Can't we?"

Nonam says, "Open What?" and points at the open corridor behind them.

(Everyone did scroll down and see the rest of my clever turn, or were you not clever?)

Noticing the hesitation in Chala's mannerisms Gareth says, "This is how Korok died. We got separated. Hurry!"

Gareth glares at Nonam but says nothing. He waits for Chala and whispers, "We tried large rocks and all kinds of debris and it didn't help. It appears the trap is no longer working. Better to be safe."

As Jus watches the stone close and Chala has joined the rest, he says, "Well, that was a good idea, Kuhdak. I guess its too late now to do anything about it..."

Nonam says, "But Jus, you're having visions again... the corridor is open and as you can see Chala has not joined us yet. Go fig, huh?"

Jus asks Chala, "How do you pronounce your name again? Kuhdak, Kuhdaak, Kaadaak?"

"Well, Gareth...", starts Jus, "Left, right, or the statue? I say let's take a look at the statue first."

Nonam says, "Well if you want to join us, step across. The trap doesn't seem to be working right now."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday March 28th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Tom says: Got a suggestion all. We might want to talk about thinks before we leap, literally. Two people take a leap before even conferring with everyone else before they get any more information about the trap, not a smart way to go...that just a suggestion. I know that there are times when we wont be able to confer about what is going on, like in a fight, or when fleeing, but when we are trying to figure something out, wouldn't it be smart to try to get ideas before jumping?

Jerry says: Anytime you guys feel you need to open up the game to email each other before a turn, for now I'll say go ahead. Just send me a copy. Tom, I understand where you are coming from...the group never actually ever said, "Sure you can join. Come on," or something. Perhaps Nonam took care of that this turn?

I'm finished with all the typing for the Campaign Folder. I still like inking in the Silver Eel Tavern, the one tavern I'm including because of it's importance in any Lankhmarian adventure and preparing it for the folder. After that, I need to prepare the districts of Plateau City and Double check all the locations to see that everything is properly labeled. Then I'm waiting for Scott to run off several more maps in color such as Windhorn Hamlet and Aisildur and then I'll be done. If all goes according to plan, I'll be finished with my part tomorrow or Friday, and should receive the color maps from Scott at the gaming session on Sunday. Then next week, I'll work on assembling the folders and perhaps by next weekend I'll have them in the mail.

I've spent approximately $20 on these folders in their entirety running copies, etc. Scott has donated at least that much to us out of the kindness of his heart. If everyone could see fit to send from $5 to $10 to help cover expenses it would be appreciated. If you can't, I'll understand. If you want to wait until you receive the Campaign Folder, that's cool. If you don't feel you can't help, let me know and I won't mention it anymore.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 46
Monday March 31st, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Chala will do her best to leap across the plate, just in case the trap just didn't spring.

"Chala is my name. Khdack is my title, like your Priest."

After everyone is together Gareth begins a careful advance down the corridor looking as he goes.

Jus cautiously approaches the goblins; looking up, down, and around for traps. When he reaches the goblins, he crouches down and examines at their bodies (touching as little as possible). He tries to determine how they died, and from what direction their death blows came.

Jus then looks to the open doors on either side and sees if he can see anything from his current position.

Gareth looks around the chamber battle ready looking for doors, traps etc.

(Since there was some confusion about me sending a description of the first chamber and I'm playing Nonam till JK gets back, I"ll do two....two....things at once.)

Nonam watches Chala easily leap over the pit and approach the party in the chamber. He looks around and coughed at the dust everyone is stirring up. The chamber he noticed was 30' square. Lying in the middle of the floor was two goblins being examined by Jus who was being careful not to touch them. Elves were always scared of dead stuff. He noticed that they still held their crude spears clutched in their hands. At the far end of the chamber, Nonam sees a statue of a horned bipedal type of creature in a shallow alcove. He shivers as the statue seems to point directly at him with one cruel finger, as its stony visage gazes out at the room, or is it the party? The chamber he notices in passing has four doors, two on the left wall and two on the right. The first door on each side hangs open on their hinges.

Nonam shakes his head and says, "Choices, choices. This place looks like it might be another trap. Ya know the kind where the doors close, the block moves and the statue spews poison gas and kills the goblins kind of trap? A mage seldom protects his lair with only one trap. I wouldn't.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday March 31st, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Tom says: I know, but it is still good practice to get ideas before one just does something, it tends to keep you alive longer. ;)

Jerry says: Yes, living is a good thing.

Jerry says: A little paranoia is also a good thing....hmm?

John says: Hey everyone! Guess what I learned today.... There is a neat, thin column to the right of the messages which sometimes indicates there is more text to read. And when you press the nifty down arrow, new text magically appears!!! WOW! Technology sure is cool (and boy do I feel dumb).

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 47
Tuesday April 1st, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Chala draws one of her weapons, just to be ready. She looks around the room, especially at the statue, to see if she recognizes what (or who) the statue is of.

The statue is 7' tall. It is a non-descript human dressed as a guard.

She will also ask Jus how the goblins died, if he is able to tell.

Learning all he could from the bodies, Jus, announces that the goblins have stinger marks on their necks like the bodies outside and Korok had.

He then goes to the open door on the left and looks inside.

This room which is 30'wide and 20' deep with the left wall collapsed, leaving little more than a pile of rubble in its place. The corpses of two goblins lie sprawled on the debris, spears jutting out of their backs.

Nonam calls out, "Gareth - Jus, be careful standing where you are. It is likely that those two goblins sprang some type of trap."

Then he looks to Chala, "Well what do you think we should investigate first?... Personally I would like to look at the statue."

Nonam begins to head cautiously and slowly toward the statue. He is looking at it and the floor carefully as he advances and is looking specifically for any holes or moveable joints in the statue or discolored or otherwise abnormal floor tiles.

Nonam notices nothing that looks like a trap on the floor or the statue.

(DM says: "@#$%&!")

Then Nonam notices a hairline crack that extends around the neck of the statue.

Gareth moves to the door on the right and looks in. If nothing he moves clockwise around the room examining everything he comes to without entering.

The room on the right looks to be a 20' square room which has two collapsed walls dividing it in half diagonally. Loose earth filters in through the ceiling and nothing but heaps of rock and rubble remain.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday April 1st, 1997 4:30:40 AM

JK says: Jerry wrote <<JK is going out of town until Sat or so to present a paper at a conference that he wrote>> I wrote a conference??? -just giving you a hard time

The conference went well and more importantly my paper was received well. Though it was hardly a big deal... more like a degree requirement.

Tom says: Or, if you use Microsoft's e-mail, it has a scroll indicator on the side. like you said, Technology, ain't neat.

Jerry says: Glad you're back JK and David.

See yall tomorrow.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 48
Wednesday April 2nd, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Frowning, Chala says "I think we should check out the statue."

Nonam points out the crack around the statue's neck to anyone who seems interested, "There's a hairline fissure running about the statue's neck. It looks... strange." Nonam continues to advance cautiously toward the statue. Once there he will try to determine if the crack at the neck is made in such a way to allow the head to swivel (meaning relatively flat around the neck------). Or if it simply appears to be a crack from age (meaning eratic ~~~).

Jus says, "It looks like the two goblins in here were killed by their compatriots. Not much to see otherwise."

Jus then starts to walk to the other door on his side. Seeing Nonam carefully examining the statue's neck, he stops and waits to hear what Nonam has found.

Gareth continues to look around being ready for attack. (We didn't hear from David today.)

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday April 2nd, 1997 4:30:40 AM

JK says: Is the statue of a "horned bipedal creature" as described in turn 46 or of a "non-descript human dressed as a guard." as described in turn 47. Maybe a viking? Does it carry weapons? if so what kind? a shield? is it male or female? Just what does the statue look like? A "nondescript human" :(

Jerry says: You have a point. Let's go with a horned bipedal creature pointing at you with one cruel finger and a stony visage bearing a menacing grin. Sorry about that last description. Geez I can't get away with anything...

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 49
Thursday April 3rd, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Nonam continues to try to determine if the crack is due to age or if it looks like it is made in a way which would allow the head to turn. He is careful not to touch it. He finally satisfies himself that the crack is a perfectly flat one and could allow the head to turn.

Gareth continues searching the area opening the second door on the right. The room is 20' across and 25' deep. It probably used to be 30' deep but the back wall has collapsed. Lying on the floor is a dead goblin. Several rats are gnawing at the corpse, while a few others frantically scour the debris-strewn corners for edibles. Partially devoured rats and old rat bones litter the floor. The rats scurry into hiding with the opening of the door.

Chala will watch the statue warily while Nonam studies the statue, again wondering if the statue is anything she recognizes (Religion proficiency). It looks like a demon of some kind from the Abyss or some such place. (Sorry Tom. I didn't catch your intention last turn.)

Jus waits to see the result of Nonam's examinations with the statue.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Thursday April 3rd, 1997 4:30:40 AM

John says: Been laid up sick. Unable to respond earlier.

Jerry says: No problem, John. I knew that if it wasn't an email problem that something was up.

Tom says: Must be AOL, cause I haven't received anything saying that mail wasn't received.

Jerry says: I did a good thing today. I decided not to go to the U2 concert. I know it would be fantastic and a lifetime experience, but at 400 bucks a shot and needing two tickets, I couldn't justify it. Of course I could have "wimped out" and bought a seat farther back for a cheaper price, but if you can't see the faces, what's different than the video when it comes out? Or the live CD for that matter? Anthony and Erin of the local group are going and he is making fun of me only being willing to sit up close. Everyone please tell me I did the right thing. Thanks. Besides Yes has a new album coming out this summer and should tour.

Jerry says: Please remove Scott Carpenter from your mailing string. Scott (David's brother) is moving back to Wichita Falls for awhile since his chaplaincy is completed in Houston. He's gonna stay here while he searches for a job to do him till he's accepted into med school. He said to thank everyone for letting him read the turns.

Jerry says: We all understand when someone gets sick, or real busy. We all do. When a turn or two is missed and we don't hear from you, first I think to check that I got any turn you sent, because that does happen. Second, I begin to think that you are sick or extremely busy and move ahead. No problem. I'll probably call, though, if I don't hear from you for 3 or more days just to see if you're ok. :) Remember, if anyone ever needs to take off for a week or so, just to let us know. So far, everyone has been very dependable and loyal.

See ya'll tomorrow.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 50
Friday April 4th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Gareth enters the room and looks above the door for tricks and traps. Seeing nothing then moves to the goblin and tries to see what killed it. He notices the tale-tale sting mark on the neck of the goblin. He searches the rubble for anything. Almost immediately he finds a torn sack containing 19gp, 25sp, 32cp, a tinderbox, three silver bracelets, a gold brooch set with semiprecious stones, a gold drinking goblet, a sling, four sling bullets, a sheathed short sword, three daggers, a battered helmet, and a brass milk dish with the name "Zotzpox" painted on it in large black letters. (Woohoo!)

Noticing Nonom's possible intentions, Chala will speak up "Be wary Nonam, the statue is of a Demon of some sort. Who knows what touching it may do. It may be better for me, as a , to touch it first, in case some foul magic is released. I am more resistant than most to magics."

Nonam declares, "It appears that the statue is built in such a way as to allow the head to swivel." Then he looks for similar cracks that would allow the arms and legs to move while being careful not to touch the statue. He finds none.

Nonam looks the statue over one more time and notices that the statue's feet are carved so that they are part of a base that keeps the statue balanced and upright.

While Jus waits for Nonam to finish with the statue, he opens the last door --the second one on the left, being careful for traps. The door opens showing hallway. The hallway goes to the right 10' (not counting the entrance square) and ends in a door. It also goes straight ahead (counting the entrance square) for 30' and turns right. At the end of the 30' facing you is a second door.

_D__ | __D | |__ {-- diagram of what Gareth and party see. |____D D {-- door back to the statue room.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday April 4th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

John says: I'm still sick. If I miss a day, feel free to play the character if it helps keep things going. my responses are going to be small until I am alive again.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 51
Monday April 7th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Nonam backs away from the statue and says to Chala, "It seems harmless enough, but if the head starts to move I suggest that we try to get out of the room. Check it more if you wish."

Then he looks around to see what everyone else is doing. Seeing Jus by the doorway he goes over to him. "Anything down the hall?"

As he does all this, Nonam thinks back and remembers that the giant demon spider left the same type sting mark (like the marks on the goblins) on Korok when it stung him.

Chala listens carefully to what Nonam says.

Chala answers, "What do you all think? Shall we see what it does if we move it?"

Gareth bags the goodies and moves out of the room to the next room and then realizes that all four rooms have been looked into. The next room for him in sequence is the hallway Jus is looking down, so he goes there and joins him.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday April 7th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

David says: Leaving for Chicago at 4AM! (Oh joy) I should still be able to check e-mail so expect my turn.

Jerry says: John, I hope you're feeling better.

Jerry says: I'm just thinking out loud, but we could try opening things up a bit allowing you to post as many moves as you want in a day making things seem more like a fluid type real time thing rather than a turn based game. This would allow conversations to take place. It would possibly make things less of a problem if someone got busy, sick, or needed to go out of town, etc. to continue without him.

Now shoot this to pieces guys and tell me what you think. I played in a game that was kinda like this for a few weeks and hated it because some people had conversations about nothing for days, while others went ahead one night just sitting at their computers and doing turn after turn waiting for the return. That was the problem I saw. This group also had 8 players which I thought was too many for this type game.

Well now you have some background as to why I've run the game as I have. I'm always open to ideas as to how to make the game better and more fun. Speak up guys!

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 52
Tuesday April 8th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Chala looks around for something she can move the head with, waiting for a reply, realizing that everyone seems to have dispersed into separate rooms.

Nonam speaks to Jus and Gareth, "Perhaps we should wait for everyone in our party before we go wandering through all these rooms."

Then he looks over his shoulder and speaks to Chala, "I think that our companions are eager to move on. Though its probably a good idea to check out the statue more, its probably more important to stay together."

Gareth says "Lets just keep going. I don't like asking for trouble.". He searches the other goblins for items of interest. He then moves into the hallway to the door on the right and listens. If no sound he opens it.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday April 8th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

David says: Greetings from the windy city. Hope you all are warmer than I. It is in the 20s with a 40 MPH wind. Don't you just wish you were here! I'll be coming home Thursday afternoon or late morning. Lake Michigan is pretty cool.

Tom says: I think you should keep it at the pace you are right now...one of the things I see going on already is that everyone seems to spread out and do their own thing, and that causes more problems than we need with traps, and getting separated. Everyone has been checking bodies and room with out the thought of any danger. One person does this, another does that, and etc...and look what happened someone died....and people were separated. I know it is a little slower, but it keeps everyone together.

JK says: This sounds like the way it should work to me. And as Jerry can tell you, I've said so before. I mean it makes since to need to know what other people in the party are doing before you act. You would in a regular game as you all know.

We might set a limit on turns per day to cut back on the problems Jerry experienced in the other game, but I think we should at least send our turns out to everyone in the group.

Jerry says: I see both sides. Let's keep discussing this and see what we can do if anything to improve our game.

Jerry says: David, I loaded in a new program that runs on the Direct X drivers that some of the other new games run on. I already have Direct X installed. When I tried to install the game it stalled. Tried several times with the same results. So I thought I'd try and reinstall the Direct X over the old one thinking that perhaps this was a more updated version of the driver. It loaded fine. Then it said it would reload windows to activate everything. When the windows popped up I got a message that the Video or video adapter settings were off. I went to the video settings and can't get it to work. I can't set things for 236 colors at all or for small fonts. All I can get is VGA settings at 15 colors and large fonts. Needless to say, many of the programs I have won't run on that. So are you be available to help me this weekend? Or should I take it to the shop? I'll understand if you don't have the time. Or if you get some time in Chicago, call me if you think we can fix it that way.....:)

(Tom and JK, I know I've opened the can of worms now. David and JK will type computer gibberish at us now until my computer is fixed.....hehe.)

Till tomorrow and hoping that I don't get hypnotized reading this large Big Chief Tablet sized text....

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 53
Wednesday April 9th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Chala will pick up a spear (be it from the back of a goblin, or one laying about). Then realizing she has a quarterstaff strapped on her back, she pulls it off of the sling.

"It would be wiser to make sure that nothing is able to follow us, be it this statue, or what ever. Can you call the others back here?"

Chala tries to determine the exact point that the statue is pointing at, especially if it is the entrance. If it isn't, and it is a section of the wall, she will check out the section of the wall before anything else.

Nonam tells Jus, "Please have a little patience." Then he walks back over to Chala and says, "I think you're right. We should check this room completely before we move on. Perhaps you can use this to move the head." He produces a dagger from his sleeve.

Jus looks at the door leading into the hallway and sees if there are any locking mechanisms. If not, Jus asks the others if they would mind turning the statue's head while everyone is still here. "If it was a trap as Nonam hypothesized, I would think there would be locks on these doors. Since there are none, I think it likely to be to our benefit to investigate further."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday April 9th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

I happen to like the 'everyone responds to everyone' format. The short time we did it when in combat, things seemed to flow very smoothly. It allowed more coordinated effort in the turn.

HOWEVER, the end-goal during combat is predefined. If this format was continued for all turns, it seems the first to respond may dictate the course (or end-goal) of everyone's actions. Not necessarily worse than what occurs now; but with Jerry being the focal, he has been able to coordinate some of the divergent actions (i.e. If x happens, Jus does y). I could also see a danger in some people (i.e. probably me) responding only 1-2 times per day, and others responding many times per day. This may result in a lopsided play environment where two are 'playing' and the remaining are 'participating'.

Even so... I still enjoyed the 'realism' associated with the everyone-to-everyone messaging. We may need to eventually schedule who >talks in what order, but I would not mind trying it.

Jerry says: Good points John. In combat, I've been actually rolling an initiative with speed factors etc. In non-combat, I've been going with the order I receive it modified by the order in which it seems to make the most sense.

Hmm.....what about designating a difference between a formal "I'm doing this" turn and conversation where the group can discuss what they are doing, the facts of life, religion, who wants to date Chala, etc. We could then put a limit of one "turn" per day, with unlimited conversation that wasn't an actual turn. What do you think?

Jerry says: The computer is fixed after a $92.00 trip to the computer doctor. I bought a new baseball game and it was a bad and corrupted disk. Bad disk. It ruined all my video drivers and two of my other drivers.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 54
Thursday April 10th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Jus helps examine the walls of the room looking for secret or concealed doorways. He also examines the statue for more of the same, and any other details that may have been missed earlier.

Chala checks again...(hehe) to see where the statue is pointing and finally decided that it points forward, but not at any specific location. It seems that the statue was placed so that the finger would look like it was pointing at anyone entering the room.

Nonam waits for Chala to do something to the statue. He'll stand about 10 feet behind her and a little to her left.

Gareth stands ready and waits for the 'head-turning'. (me too David...:))

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Thursday April 10th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

JK says: Jerry, how come so many bad things happen to your computer?

Jerry says: It hates me.

JK says: One quick note on the turn discussion: We could still keep it at one response per day, but we could send it to everyone. We could also establish some type of rotating turn order. This would solve the need to send Jerry messages that read like this "If ... then I will..., but if not then.... However, if on the other hand..."

Jerry: Going in turns would slow things down too much. Example: John can't do his turn until Tom is finished. That's too inconvenient. The order of turns will have to stay in my domain as the DM to decide.

I'm also concerned about sending every message to everyone. Actions must be addressed to me cause I'm responsible for the reactions to those actions. If we sent non-combat actions to everyone, someone could, but wouldn't have to react to another's turn. That seems ok. Reacting could save time, in that if the action was received before one's own turn was sent in, they could coordinate their actions, so to speak.

Since combat is supposed to be somewhat simultaneous, we will have to leave it the same, only to me and one round's action per turn. To do otherwise would slow things down too much.

Tom says: Should we start sending messages to each other, I have only been replying to you. Are we going to go to a free style, I do kind of like the idea of the one actual turn a day, with 'unlimited' amounts of talking to determine what we will all do.

Jerry says: Right now, we're just discussing it. I'm not one to go off shooting at the hip to try something. I like to have an idea of how it will work first. Once we've settled on something and agree, we'll talk about trying it.

Let the turning begin....or we can just talk about it for awhile.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 55
Friday April 11th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Jus finishes checking the room for secret doors and finds nothing. He also notices nothing further about the statue.

Gareth looks at the statue from the neck down. He makes sure not to look at it's eyes.

Seeing everyone is back in the room, Chala will touch her quarterstaff to the statue.

Chala waits to see if anything happens. When nothing does, she will try to move the head, left first, and then right if it doesn't move left.

When Chala turns the head left, it begins to unwind. After 5 revolutions, the head comes off revealing that the interior of the statue is hollow.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday April 11th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

I'm sending you a copy of the email I received from RPGA headquarters today. Surprise.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 56
Monday April 14th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
After Chala looks inside Gareth asks "Should we try to turn it over?" and moves into a position to do so.

Nonam says eagerly, "What's inside?"

Chala says "You want to check it out Nonam?"

Jus waits to see what Chala does. If she does not look into the statue, >Jus offers to do the honors.

Jus stands to Chala's right with his back to the statue looking into the room and down the entrance hallway -- swords drawn. He tensely awaits to react if any trap is triggered by Chala's actions.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday April 14th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

JK says: Who woulda thunk it? WotC buying TSR? Seems funny that the new company can afford the old company (even with TSR's financial problems). But that's what happens I suppose.

Kevin says: Hey Jerry, sorry for the trouble, but my sceen-name is now changed. I was on Kirk's account, but now have my own account. Thanks, Kev'

John says: Is everything OK? Haven't heard from you in a while, and the last turn did not seem to include the paragraphs I had sent (included some other that I did not send).

I am wondering if you are receiving from me or even sending turns that are just not getting through. I haven't checked my home e-mail in a couple of days, but will try to check tonight.

Jerry says: The last turn went out like Saturday. I've been very busy getting ready for TAAS testing. You wouldn't believe how big it is now. It's even going to be tied to our evaluations next year. Sheesh. You as of tonight, have everything I've received back to you.

John and David: What Virus Protection do you use? How do you upgrade? How often?

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 57
Tuesday April 15th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Nonam goes and looks into the statue, and says, "I see...a hollow compartment in the neck and there is a scroll here and a large iron key"

Jus awaits to see what Chala does.

Jus peers inside the statue to see what is inside.

Jus tries to determine if the objects are harmless by checking for traps and then reaches inside to pull the objects out.

Gareth looks grateful as if he was about to push the statue over and search the pieces. He begins to move once again toward the hallway.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday April 15th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

David says: I use McAfee Anti virus software. They have a web site which is updated at least monthly that you can download from for updates. Your best defense against viruses is to only load proprietary software, DON'T USE SHAREWARE PERIOD (Unless you just love getting your system rebuilt)!, and keep your Anti virus updated regularly. Don't open junk mail in your email, don't download frivolously from the Internet, don't copy from disks copied from other systems. Hope this helps..

Jerry says: That's good and bad to hear. I have McAfee as well, however, their web site is very confusing to me as is their upgrading instructions. Since the crash, I need to download a complete version and the upgrade. I've been putting it off because I've never truly understood their site and always wonder if I have the latest version and stuff.

John says: So was I late for a turn, or what? Why did two of my turn replies show up in the last turn?

Jerry says: No, methinks I was late for a turn this time.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 58
Wednesday April 16th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Nonam waits, "What's on the scroll?"*(see below). The scroll has two spells on it: Protection from Evil, and Spider Climb.

Gareth enters the hall.

Jus looks the scroll over and sees if he can make heads or tails of it. (Jerry says: this assumes that Nonam offers it to him. I'm assuming that he is willing. Let me know if he is not. )

Jus pauses a moment, gives a heavy sigh, and passes the scroll back to Nonam. A little frustrated, Jus rhetorically asks, "Just how many of these things are we going to find in here?"

Jus then examines the key to see if there are any markings or anything else noteworthy about the key.

It is large for a key and made of iron.

Chala will stand back, wait for a direction to go. "Lead on."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday April 16th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

John says: My home mail is having problems again. Don't expect replies to mail sent only to my home address until Microsoft works out whatever problem they are having.

If anyone received my reply about the psionics, please forward it to Jerry. For some reason he received an empty mail message.

David says: McAfee' web site is indeed interesting. I haven't looked at it in a few months. I'll look at it and give you instructions in the next couple of days.

Jerry says: Thanks Dave. I need the latest full version and info on how to upgrade. I am registered for one year of online upgrades. Uh, while we're at it....which decompression program do you use. Winzip was the @#$% program that ruined my computer in October. I've heard that Pkzip is a good one. What do you think. I could download winzip again cause I'm registered with them. I need one of these to uncompress stuff from time to time.

*Jerry says: I have recently been reminded of a rule on PHB2 p.108 which says that scroll containing wizard spells must be read using the Read Magic spell the first time it is read. I realize I set precedent last time by allowing all to read the title of the earlier scroll. So I'm just serving notice that next time, I'll just say it's indecipherable until that occurs. As far as I can tell, this is only for wizard scrolls, not clerical.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 59
Thursday April 17th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Nonam takes the scroll when Jus offers it to him and tucks it away. Then he looks to Gareth, "I believe you probably know which way we should go, so if you would be so kind as to lead the way."

Wait until we have a direction.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Thursday April 17th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

Tom says: Yah, seen Tim, he's got a job at Rent-for-own place, and he has been subbing for Clover park. He says hi btw.

Jerry says: Tell him hi back.

Jerry says: I don't know why I reverted to turn 37 and 38. I'm assuming you guys saw past my ignorance.

JK says: Uh, I never said that Nonam took the scroll. Turn 37 read "Jus tries to determine if the objects are harmless by checking for traps and then reaches inside to pull the objects out."

Thus I was asking Jus what the scroll said with my last response and not investigating it myself. So as far as this statement goes: "Jus looks the scroll over and sees if he can make heads or tails of it. (Jerry says: this assumes that Nonam offers it to him. I'm assuming that he is willing. Let me know if he is not. )" I don't see that Nonam has any say in the matter since Jus already had it. Though it is entirely likely that had Nonam picked it up first that he would have been very suspicious of Jus's motives in wanting a magical scroll.

Jerry says: "reaches inside to pull the objects out" means "reaches inside to pull the objects out. Thus you pulled the objects out, then Jus asked for them, then gave them back to you. That is how it will stand. :)

Jerry says: Since no one has commented on our discussion about how to open the game up a bit, I'm assuming it's over. Therefore starting now, you may have extended discussions "in character" about the game. If you are by yourselves it can be private, if you are with the group, send it to everyone who would hear it. All emails concerning the game must be sent to me. We will continue to send in one turn per day. Please designate which is your formal turn.

Something else to try. During non-combat situations, you may send more than one thing you want to do or say. I think we all agree that the game is too slow for our liking. Feel free to push ahead. Danger is what adventuring is all about. Revel in it. DONE

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 60
Friday April 18th, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Gareth walks into the hallway and approaches the door on the right. When nothing > happens he listens at the door and then hearing nothing, opens it. He sees another hallway running forward (South) and turning west at the twenty foot mark.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday April 18th, 1997 5:30:40 AM

Jerry says: Dave, I'll check on the prices of the Rush tickets today. (Styx too. They are on the 30th of May.) Styx has a new double CD coming out in May with live cuts from last year's tour and new studio material. John, they tour Denver in July 19th. Check out their very informational site at http://www.tiac.net/users/kat/Styx/ Lots of interviews, sound bites, pictures, etc. Even a list digest you can subscribe to. ELO opens for them later in the summer. Pat Benatar opens for them early (yuck!)

Rush has no warm up band this tour. They advertise it as "For the first time an entire evening with Rush" Rush is May 24th.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 61
Monday April 21st, 1997 5:00:40 AM
Gareth goes to the second door (the one straight ahead and 30' down the hallway) and uses the same procedure, then opens it. This is what he sees around the corner.

_D__ | __D | |__ <-- diagram of what Gareth and party see. |____D D <-- door back to the statue room.

The 2nd door opens into a 30'/30' room. The entrance door is in the south portion of the SE corner of the room. The chamber appears to have been undamaged by the blast that destroyed the tower. A circle surrounded by magical runes has been painted on the floor. A wooden lectern stands close by. Resting on the lectern is a sheet of parchment yellow and curled with age. Two evil-looking statuettes sit at the base of the lectern.

Nonam follows Gareth down the hall.

Jus walks down the hallway starting from the statue room until he reaches Gareth, checking for secret doors the entire way.

(I'm assuming that you mean a cursory check. DMG2 p. 130 states that it takes 10 minutes to search a 20' section of wall. A cursory check is the automatic chance that an elf has of finding secret/hidden doors by just passing by. To keep things simple, you may search a 10' section of wall per email turn. You will need to designate the 10' section to check)

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday April 21st, 1997 5:30:40 AM

John says: What's going on???? The past turns -- many of them -- have not had everyone respond. I haven't even seen the past 3 turns before receiving all of them (at work or at home). If some procedural change for sending out turns was made, please let me know.

Jerry says: I think that two things happened. First of all, you didn't receive that one turn. I think it was 37 (which should have been numbered 57). I sent it and 58 again. I do send all emails to all addresses each time unless private. Second of all I have sent turns even though I didn't receive a turn from all 4 players. For instance, I didn't get a turn from Tom this time. I'll only wait so long or everyone begins to ask what my problem is. If you receive a turn without getting the previous one, or the date is wrong, or I don't put in the turn what you wrote, let me know ASAP so we can track down this problem.

Dave says about the Rush concert: Sounds interesting. I'll check the schedule to see what plans are already made that day.

Jerry says: Now about the bad news. They want us to pay through the nose for tickets.

Rows 1-10 $200 Rows 12-15 $150 Rows 20+ $100 Rows 20+ center $125

JK and David, let me know if you are still interested in going. I am interested. If you'd rather go to the Styx concert, I have two tickets on row two at $100 each. If no one wants pay to go, I've asked Scott Carpenter and then Scott Marley to go as my guest.

Jerry says: Things continue to be very busy. I'm doing the best that I can.

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