Figment Monday May 14th, 2001 11:17:07 AM
The mage prepares for battle pondering how he might go about controlling the beasties. "I understand that the dwarves are the best miners and weapon smiths in the Wold. But I see no reason we couldn't help make thier life easier. As far as battle plans go, I think we should focus on the smaller ones first. The big ones seem to be busy eating and mining for the time being. I doubt they'll bother us if we dont bother them. The smaller ones appear to be the aggressive ones.". Before he turns and heads out, he asks Orgar a question "Have any of the large beetles ever come out of the tunnels or have your encounters with them been down where they are digging - except the one you lured out that is?".
Flueterflam Monday May 14th, 2001 12:03:14 PM
Fluet jumps as Olana shakes him. He looks around surprisedly. "huh?" He calms down then. "Oh, I didn't realize I dozed off. I think I'm just too stressed out right now." He smiles weakly and looks around to assess what ever plans the group will be up to next. "Are we going somewhere yet?"
Dakar Monday May 14th, 2001 12:42:25 PM
Dakar claps Orgar on the back. "That's the way to settle things. I shall accompany you." Dakar too, hefts his axe and gets ready to move out. "It matters not to me from whence the beetles come. It only matters that they bleed and die. The more we talk the heavier under siege we may become."
Milo Monday May 14th, 2001 1:13:44 PM
Milo's eyes sorta half open when Olana touches him. Looking up at her with a glazed expression, he smiles dreamily, "Hmmm... beautiful elf woman..." Then he wakes, and his eyes snap open wide with realization, and the halfling blushes, "Um.... time to go?" He smiles weakly.
Ingrge Monday May 14th, 2001 10:38:08 PM
Umm I suppose it would be too much to ask that we do this in the morning or at least a little later when we can be at fullspell strength?
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 15th, 2001 12:20:39 AM
Hearing Ingrge's query Bertram snorts and rolls his eyes heavenward. "And miss all this glory BEFORE we sleep?" Still chuckling Bertram grips his axe and prepares to follow where he is ordered.
K'Nara Tuesday May 15th, 2001 6:12:40 AM
Hearing Ingrge's words, the tall human woman spun around and glanced sharply at him and then at Figment.
"Just how much of your magic did you use already?" K'Nara asked, frowning because she hadn't thought to ask this before. "We rested before taking on those nasty smaller bugs...and--if I remember correctly--there's a couple of, uh, books that you and Figment should try to read before whatever benefit they may have to your spellcasting ability expires. However, if you used a lot of magic in that last battle, then we probably ought to rest and recover the spells..."
Figment Tuesday May 15th, 2001 12:04:35 PM
The mage smiles "K'Nara, the books of which you speak will require intense uninterrupted study for 2 weeks. I don't think I see a window of time that large in our future. On the other hand, I am about at 60% of my spells left. That's probably enough for one or two battles like the one we just had - but no more. Two would be pushing it. I could see us waiting to replentish but I can continue if you want to make progress today. I'm more concerned about the healers magic than I am mine at this point. Those things can do major damage in a short amount of time.". The mage waits for her decision.
Olana Tuesday May 15th, 2001 7:49:06 PM
"Why thank you," says Olana to Milo, beaming at the compliment. In answer to Milo's and Fluet's question she shrugs her shoulders. "I thought we were ready - but I think our mages are worried about their spells." She waits, looking between her comrades until they've figured out what's best.
DM Jan (You put your left dwarf in, your left dwarf out.....) Tuesday May 15th, 2001 8:03:45 PM
Orgar grinds to a halt and turns around. Not used to being around mages and their need for study, he looks incredulously at Dakar and Bertram. "Well are we going? Or aren't we?" ((OOC - surface time is currently 3pm in the afternoon - 8 hours of rest will be needed to replenish spells, and no doubt some diplomatic effort to cool off the battle hungry little fellas.))
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:30:44 PM
Bertram raised his hands placatingly. "Cousin Orgar. I can assure you we will be looking forward to helping you in the upcoming battle. However, rest would be good especially for each of our students of the arcane lore, and I as well need to pray to Domi to replenish my healing powers. I would hate to see something happen to one of us because we rushed into a battle without preparation. Life is precious even to a Priest of the God of War, Cousin."
Dakar Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:56:39 PM
"If none of the rest of you will go, then I must. I cannot sit by and watch my brethren die. It is a code I will not violate." He turns to K'nara. "Of this, I know you will object. Know that my duty is always first to my god and second to my people. My duty to the Talons and the Tines is third, and I am ready to battle fresh again. If you are resting, I will fight, and rejoin you when you are ready to fight again. The power of my axe is greater than the power of my spells, and my brothers will need healing."
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 16th, 2001 10:33:02 PM
Bertram looks to Dakar and replies mildly. "I think the mine is safe for tonight, Brother. Our Cousins have guards posted and they will wait for the morn I am sure. So the only life in danger is the one that rushes in unaided. Why dont we rest tonight and tomorrow go smash the forces that have taken over these tunnels?"
Figment Thursday May 17th, 2001 12:08:31 AM
The mage says nothing - and tries not to look too frustrated at the eager dwarf.
Olana Thursday May 17th, 2001 12:23:25 AM
"Dakar, please," says the elf. "If you venture out on your own and get killed now, your bretheren will sorely miss your axe as they battle with these horrible things, and so will we. Maybe we can ask Helga to hold off on her scouts and make sure everyone is safe here. Don't you have spells to replenish too?"
Milo Thursday May 17th, 2001 4:06:40 AM
Hearing Dakar's declarations, Milo finds himself completely beside... himself... Not knowing anything pithy to say at this moment, he sits there in mute disbelief.
K'Nara Thursday May 17th, 2001 5:58:55 AM
"I would rather be certain that our spellcasters have all their available power at their disposal--especially those healing spells." K'Nara said. "Remember--Olana took a LOT of damage that required spells from more than just one cleric." The tall human woman turned to Orgar.
"I'd have my group rest and recover, please--the idea of posting lookouts seems a sound one. If your clanspeople can let us know if there's trouble while we are trying to rest, we will cut short our recuperation and go to the site of battle. Until then, though--it is a wise warrior who marshalls all the assets available to them for an upcoming combat...and we Talons set a great store in the asset of having fully-powered spellcasters."
DM Jan Thursday May 17th, 2001 9:30:33 PM
Orgar scratches his beard for a moment. "Well - if you put it THAT way." He re-shoulders his axe. "I'll let Helga know whats going on. Sentries we can post easily enough." On his way past Dakar he adds - "If you're fer want of something to do Oathbreaker, you can always relieve Belgad's watch on that captured beetle. He'll be as drunk as a skunk by now anyway." Orgar shuffles off in the same direction Helga went, muttering something about spellcasters, and downright peculiar.
Figment Friday May 18th, 2001 12:31:25 AM
The mage retires for the evening wherever the dwarves put him up, sleeps, and then replentishes his spells.
K'Nara Friday May 18th, 2001 6:16:07 AM
The tall human bladesinger rubbed idly at her own wound, forgotten (until now) in her concern for those of the party with a less-hardy constitution. (OOC: K'Nara is still suffering from that minor 5hp wound inflicted on her by a beetle.)
"Any who have a skill in Healing...I'd appreciate getting this looked at." K'Nara said out loud, indicating the nasty gash in her lower leg. "I don't need any magical stuff on it--unless there's an extra Cure spell floating around. Binding it should do okay."
Milo Friday May 18th, 2001 11:30:26 AM
Suddenly realizing that he gets to sleep after all, Milo looks up at Olana, winks... "See you in my dreams." He then closes his eyes and drifts off once again to peaceful slumber. To anyone looking, it is apparent that the diminutive rogue has neglected his own wound (8hp) taken from an ambushing bug.
Olana Friday May 18th, 2001 1:19:21 PM
The elf helps out with wound binding and fresh dressings on all that need it before settling cross-legged into the elven form of rest for a little while. After that, she will check her weapons, sharpening and repairing where required.
Brother Bertram d8+5=10 Friday May 18th, 2001 9:46:00 PM
Bertram moves over to K'Nara and gently peels back the bandage. Murmuring a simple prayer he lays his hand upon the wound. As his hands cross the jagged edges of the wound, they begin smoothing, flesh knits, and muscle grows back together. Soon it is impossible to tell there was a wound, except for the fact that the skin appeared to be newly grown. Smiling at K'Nara, Bertram bows and moves back to where he was preparing for sleep. Laying his axe by his side he closes his eyes and and listens to the others as he waits for slumber to come.
Flueterflam Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:56:39 AM
The bard feels uncomfortable not having much to do. To K'nara, "Is there anything that you'd like me to do? I feel like I haven't really been doing much lately for us. For some reason, I've felt very distant lately. But, now I'd like to actually do something. So, basically, if you can think of anything..." a giant yawn takes hold of the bard, "...just let me know." Fluet smiles tiredly, and begins to nod off slightly again.
DM Jan Saturday May 19th, 2001 1:18:01 AM
Everyone gets a decent rest in the cavern(those injured get half a hp per level back by resting). There are no interruptions, so it's safe to say that the beetles are busy going about their own business deep in the mine. After approximately 8 hours - the soup and bread truck rolls round, closely followed by the ale truck.
Ingrge (Here we come to save the day.....) Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:41:23 PM
Grinning and with a lilt in his voice not heard in a while, Ingrge greets you all with, "Good morning everyone, I hope everyone had pleasant dreams, from the sound of things our little friend, motioning to Milo, did." I think a quick bite and chat about how we want to proceed might be in order before we go wading in beetle blood.
Dakar Saturday May 19th, 2001 3:12:10 PM
"It's not morning. It's about 2 or 3 am surface time. Since you had such a long and exhaustive 9 hour day yesterday I suppose you wouldn't have realized that." Dakar totes his axe up upon his shoulder, mumblins something about "more lazy than a pit goblin" in dwarvish beneath hii breath.
Brother Bertram Saturday May 19th, 2001 7:08:02 PM
Bertram listens to the exchange between Ingrge and Dakar and then turns to Ingrge with a grin and a twinkle in his eye. "Your race is indeed a lazy lot, Friend Ingrge. Imagine wanting to sleep and be fresh for the attack rather than rushing in full of piss and vinegar. Ahh how do you live with yourselves? Brother Dakar how have you managed to stay alive with these people that won't rush into battle without preparation? I must pray for deliverance from the evils of sound planning." Bertram snorts loudly and winks at Ingrge and checks his equipment.
Figment Saturday May 19th, 2001 11:23:36 PM
The mage smiles and stands ready having replentished his spells. Seeing that Dakar is in good spirits he smiles and says "Good morning. I would say this timetable suits us well. There will come a time to leave this place, and when it does, 2 or 3 AM would be a good time to hit the surface.". He eats the food provided by the dwarves and thanks them - making sure not to make any comments about how poorly they cook.
K'Nara Monday May 21st, 2001 6:55:16 AM
By the time the victuals came trundling by, the human bladesinger had already been up and just about finished with her daily practice session via the magic ring that linked her to Greymaulkin. She was grinning from ear to ear because--for once--K'Nara had awoken him from slumber due to the earliness of the hour...and he had been--to put it mildly--MOST surprised.
"Let's stoke up and then go get that thing." the tall redhead greeted the rest of the group over breakfast. "Oh...Figment...did you get any, ahhhhh...revelations as to how to control these things? Or does it look like we're just going to have to kill them and be done with it..?" K'Nara's appetite didn't suffer from the topic of grisly death or upcoming battle as she heartily ate of the (in her humble opinion) fine Dwarven food.
Figment d20=16 Monday May 21st, 2001 9:28:43 AM
The mage spends some of his preparation time thinking about how he might control the big bugs so he can answer the warrior woman's question. (DC 38 = 16 + 4 Int + 9 Arcana + 9 Spellcraft)
Milo Monday May 21st, 2001 10:37:40 AM
At Ingrge's pronouncement, Milo blushes a deep crimson, and then without further ado, kneels next to the cavern wall and prays silently to Alemi for a half hour before opening the old prayerbook and spending another half hour in silent contemplation of his diety. That done, he joins his friends for breakfast, ready to face whatever challenges the day... or morning may show him.
Olana Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:15:33 AM
The elf helps herself to some soup, then double checks her weapon placement. Her eyes flit to Ingrge's after Dakar's comment, breaking a smile as the dwarf Bertram breaks the ice. "Dakar, you're so grumpy of an early morning," she says with a grin. She asks K'Nara if the battle order will be the same as before. "If it is - I'd better get up front," she says. "Showtime," she whispers to Fluet who looks to be nodding off again.
DM Jan (We're off to see the beetle.....) Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:27:38 AM
Orgar arrives as the Talons complete their final preparations. Taking a large mug of ale, he drains it dry and belches loudly. he looks eager to be off and sets off down the tunnel, waiting till everyone else catches up. "I'm looking forward to this," he says, giving out another large belch that seems to reverberate down the tunnel.
Other than what has already been discovered and evaluated, Figment's deliberations come upon nothing new. The spells the mad wizard used definitely seem to focus on some alchemic transformation of the metal - but why? What's so special about it?
As for the creatures themselves - they appear larger versions of much smaller critters found underfoot - they're beetles, with a plain but effective method of protection and attack, just like nature provided.
K'Nara Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:35:35 AM
K'Nara finished her meal, belched loudly, then considered Olana's question.
"Hmm...yes, the same battle order, Olana," the human bladesinger nodded, "And everyone should remember the 'battle buddy' system, hmmm--especially in regards to our healers...these beetles pack a wallop and we will DEFinitely need all the healing magic we can get..!" After everyone is in the proper marching order, the leader of the Emerald Talons gave the order to move out.
Ingrge Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 7:36:39 AM
Looking between Dakar and then Bertram, Ingrge shakes his head and then grins. Actually, 2 or 3 A.M. IS morning and if you wnant to go ahead ahead and tackle those beasties like you did just after we met you go ahead, but I won't guarantee I will have anything left to aid you when you need it this time. It is said, by one of your kin I believe, that foolish is the warrior who turns down aid or weapons when they are at hand and likely needed.
K'narra, I think that perhaps when we get to the cavern that we should reconoiter the situation quickly and then Figment and I should do our thing. Then you more doughty folk can head in with us doing additional support work.
Figment d20=18 Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 12:08:31 PM
The mage smiles at Ingrge's assessment of the upcoming battle. "We'll soften them up a bit and then you guys can go in and mop up. And don't worry Dakar, ther will be plenty of mopping up to do so you won't fell ripped off...".
"K'Nara, as I was saying yesterday, this mage used some kind of magic and combined it with a type of alchemic method to produce the large beetles. I would be willing to bet that the little beetles were placed here to kill the dwarves and the big ones are here to mine ore. I would also bet that the little ones are picking up the eggs of pure metal and placing them somewhere. I bet we find scads of them in a location in one or both tunnels. I strongly suspect that all we have to do is kill the little ones and the big ones will mine away and never bother anyone as long as they don't feel threatened. I have a suggestion on how we could deal with the big ones after the smaller ones are gone. We can set up some sort of portable cage contraption which I can help with as I have architectural experience. After we kill the smaller ones we simply erect the bars in the tunnel - maybe several layers of them. We can also design traps for the beasties should they ever decide to eat more than ore - or perhaps find the end of the ore vein. That way we could prevent any additional loss of life for the dwarves. I would also be willing to bet that the smithies discover that the pure metal is far better than anything the dwarves have been able to produce to this point from this mine - no offense intended Orgar. I would make the following suggestion: Kill the small ones, search the tunnels for a potential egg stash, and leave the big one for another day. We will coming up on it's backside and it would be wise to let Ingrge and I reload spells and blast it from a distance if we decide to kill it. That will give me more time to evaluate the captured beetle and see if I can control them. And one other thing. We need to be on the lookout for anything that might be reproducing these beetles. Like a "queen" or a magic device or something.".
After his oratory the mage falls silent and prepares to fight.
Figment, cont. Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 12:11:03 PM
The mage reassesses his ideas for soundness based on the available facts and a review of the glyphs on the captured. He considers how he might craft a spell or incantation based on the glyphs that might control the big ones. (INT DC 18 + 4 + 9 + 9 = 40)
Dakar Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 4:33:36 PM
"Need I remind you that I did more than soften them up in the last encounter... My kill count alone was almost equal to the damage the rest of you did combined." He turns to Brother Bertram. "You are not a dwarf of my clan. You are a Brother of my faith, but you still cannot understand the way of existence that I and my kin lived. Are you a hill dwarf? Or do you come from the depths as I do? In the halls of my ancestors to sleep in this way was to ensure that your comrades would meet death the next day. We did not rush into battle without preparation. Our axes were sharp and our minds sound. When you live the life of battle you realize that tactics are a matter of great clashes between armies, not skirmishes. We fight skirmishes here against an enemy that dies as softly as an orc."
Flueterflam Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 4:44:00 PM
The bard yawns, stretches...stretches again, then gathers himself to go off into battle. As various others argue, Fluet smiles. Nothing like a little last minute quarrels to prepare for a good battle.
Milo Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 5:02:55 PM
After praying and eating, Milo prepares for the fight to come, though hearing Dakar, he just about has had enough. Looking at the dwarf from across the room, "Dakar, what right have you to judge others upbringing, and how particularly tough it is or isn't... I don't profess to know anything about dwarves that I haven't witnessed first hand, but you seem to have a great deal of criticism of everyone else as of late. All you say is... you don't know this and you don't know that... well I'll tell you what I do know, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and right now, with the recklessness you've displayed, that is you! And don't think for one second that I'm attempting to damage your reputation... or your honor... but ask yourself this mister 'I have a debt to repay' when you charge headlong into danger without thought of consequence... whom do you serve... is it Domi... or is it yourself." The diminutive patriarch stands with his arms crossed and a look that can only be described as pure stubborness on his face.
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:17:10 PM
Bertram listens to Dakar rant for a few moments as he sits there wrapping the grips on his axe. Finally as Dakar winds down he looks up at him. "I am indeed not a member of your clan nor did I ever claim to be. You say you and your clan do not rush into battle without preparation, but yet the short time I have been with this group you have done nothing BUT rush into battle, or berate us for not rushing into battle with you. As for the others here with you they can listen or ignore you as they wish. As for me, I am tired of the way you berate us and try to drag us into danger foolishly, and frankly you embarass our Brotherhood and Domi. I would say that I think you are going to get yourself killed, but fools generally get killed ones close to them rather than themselves. But of course that would not possibly be your fault." Bertram turns his back on Dakar and begins making sure his pack is ready to go.
Olana Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 1:48:53 AM
The elf looks to K'Nara and shrugs. "Perhaps the sooner we get to killing these beetles, the better. We seem to be ready for it." The elf heads forward, following Orgar.
DM Jan (Shhh, listen- whats that sound......) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 2:06:26 AM
The Talons set off down the south tunnel. Occasionally a call can be heard in dwarven, drifting from some of the the smaller tunnels. They appear to be calls of recognition to those who understand dwarven, and are perhaps coming from those who are standing sentry in the other tunnels. Their tone does not suggest alarm.
The darkness sucks at any light to be had. The cavern where the group smashed the smaller beetles is reached, and then passed. The tunnel then becomes quite steep as it continues on. ((All players roll LISTEN CHECK at this point to determine awareness of something a little odd - DC 14))
K'Nara d20-1=17 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:18:02 AM
"Milo! And here I thought you were an acolyte of Alemi rather than Domi!" K'Nara said to the halfling with a smile. She paused long enough to kneel so as to be on the same level as Milo before continuing to speak to him. "Thank you for the defense, my friend...but try not to take what our resident battlerager says personally...he is simply exhibiting the stress that this unnatural situation in these tunnels poses for all of us. The sooner we cleanse the tunnels the better." The tall human female stood back up again, mulling over Ingrge's and Figment's advice.
"Recon is a good idea--we will assess what the exact situation is when we reach that cavern." K'Nara agreed. "If we see signs that Figment's theory is, indeed, correct, then we should give the dwarves who live here a choice as to whether they wish to harness these beetles' ability for their own use...or not." With a nod of her cauled head, the leader of the Emerald Talons returned to her place in the marching order, murmuring "Lucia" and lighting her sword for use as a torch. After advancing beyond the original battle site, she suddenly raised her left hand, signaling the party to halt.
"Hey...what's that sound..?" K'Nara demanded, lifting her right hand--with its flaming blade--as high as she could, looking around to try to identify whatever it was that she'd heard...or, at least, which direction the strange noise came from.
Milo d20+6=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:00:27 AM
Confronted with K'nara, Milo seems to visibly relax, and nods agreement with her as she speaks. Turning his back on Dakar, and the entire conversation, Milo takes a deep breath and draws his short sword, resting it on his diminutive shoulder in readiness. He then takes his place in the marching order beside Bertram, giving the dwarf a gentle pat on the shoulder.
As he follows the rest of the group down the passage, he catches himself in mid-yawn as a something catches his attention. (OOC: made my listen check DC 15)
Figment d20=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 12:03:15 PM
The mage takes his place with the others. He pulls out a torch apparently prepared last night which gives off light (Continual Flame). "I did not have time to prepare more of these but I will if this drags on a couple of days.".
As they proceed down the tunnel the hair on the back of his neck rises (Made listen check). "Get ready guys, something's here.".
Brother Bertram d20=15 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 4:40:01 PM
Bertram gives Milo and quick smile at his touch as they move forward. Shortly after they start, he cocks his head listening, an odd look on his face.
Olana d20=19 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 10:52:49 PM
Olana, up at the front of the party comes to a halt, also hearing what the others have heard. She moves her head from side to side, using both eyes and ears, trying o figure out what it is.
Ingrge d20+2=16 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:46:46 PM
Just as everyone starts shushing each other Ingrge turns and says "will you all be quiet, I think I hear something.
Dakar d20+3=17 Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:48:48 PM
"Life is battle, battle life." replies Dakar to Brother Bertram, reciting the dwarvish parable he learned in his youth. "In battle only can the honorless find honor." He hefts his axe and walks alongside the rest of the party. After a few moments his ears perk up, and his head turns in the direction of something in the darkness
DM Jan (...everybody look whats goin' round...) Thursday May 24th, 2001 12:18:42 AM
As the light from K'nara's sword, and Figment's continual light torch dance along the tunnels, a strange sound can be heard off to the right in one of the smaller darker tunnels. It's like a popping sound - maybe like something bubbling and oozing.
"Don't like the sound of that," mutters Orgar, who was about to say something to Figment and K'Nara before he too heard the sound. "Never heard that before. And we have a little ways to go yet before we get to that big 'un."
K'Nara Thursday May 24th, 2001 6:18:45 AM
"So...this is a sound new to the tunnels, Orgar..?" K'Nara asked, frowning. "Then we'd better see what it means. Let's follow the sound to its source--carefully, of course--it could be anything from some lava stream to...oh, gods...something that the beetle wizard guy stuck down here in order to help his bugs out." The woman warrior turned toward the tunnel the sound was coming from, in order to gauge its size and whether or not she would actually fit in it. If she could not, K'Nara fully planned on asking Orgar to accompany those who could fit into that tunnel.
Figment Thursday May 24th, 2001 11:52:19 AM
The mage hunkers down and follows the others into the dark abyss.
Milo Thursday May 24th, 2001 7:56:55 PM
Curious as to the nature of the sound as anybody, Milo strains his ears listening. Then when K'nara turns to enter the tunnel, he willingly follows, short sword at the ready.
Dakar Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:03:01 PM
The battlerager ponders the noise fof a moment more. After a few seconds pass he trudges in, reluctantly, with the others. He brings his axe to the ready position, so that he can bite deeply into whatever foe they may face.
Ingrge Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:08:45 PM
Letting the others go ahead in to the side passage ingrge takes a moment before following and quaffs a potion from his side pocket. (invisibility)
Olana Friday May 25th, 2001 2:03:26 AM
The elf hesitantly steps forward, wondering what the heck they're going to find now. It was bound to be something horrid - everything had been horrid so far. She pulls her sword.
DM Jan Friday May 25th, 2001 2:07:48 AM
This side tunnel is smaller, and more narrow - standing about 4 and a half feet in height, so some may have to crawl. Ahead is an eerie green glow. It's coming from what looks like a pile of ooze, which blocks the way and is making popping noises and quivering slightly. Within it - things seem to be moving.
K'Nara d20+2=8 Friday May 25th, 2001 6:06:46 AM
K'Nara had to crawl extra slow--her fiery sword was her only source of light and she didn't want to burn anybody with it. Once her eyes fell upon the sight of the moving ooze, she froze in place for a moment.
"Everybody--OUT!" she barked. "This is entirely too close-quarters for any of us to be effective..." The woman warrior began backing out of the tunnel. "...with the exception, of course, of dwarves and Milo, here, that is." Once everyone was safely out, K'Nara took a moment to pose a question to those whom may have a better grasp of Spellcraft than the neophyte sorceress:
"The way that...stuff was moving--do you think it may have something to do with these beetles?" she asked. "I mean...that bug-crazy wizard was also REALLY talented at making potions...so maybe this oozy stuff is some kind of potion he planted here...to...uh...umm...what? Make bugs out of nothing? Or feed them, maybe..?" Clearly the inexperience of dealing directly with such magic hampered K'Nara, though, as she just couldn't seem to fathom the meaning of the eerie ooze. (OOC: I only rolled 8 on a voluntary Spellcraft check.)
Figment d20+4=22 Friday May 25th, 2001 10:54:40 AM
The mage looks closely at the ooze before moving back to try and determine what it might be (INT DC 31 [22+9=31].
Ingrge d20+3=14 d20+12=13 Friday May 25th, 2001 11:23:06 PM
Being near the rear of the party, Ingrge doesn't get close enough to get a look at the ooze but from the description tries to figure out what it might be (Int DC 14, Arcane Knowledge DC 13).
Flueterflam Saturday May 26th, 2001 3:27:28 AM
Fluet, having kept quiet mainly, stays near the rear of the party. Listening to the description of their new surroundings, the bard decides he'll let the others try to figure this one out.
Olana Saturday May 26th, 2001 6:10:58 PM
Having took a quick look at the thing before backing out, the elf wrinkles her nose. "Well at least it didn't have pincers," she says cheerfully. "But it looked alive - or perhaps there's something alive inside."
DM Jan (Mommy where do bab - ? Hush lad and ask yer dad) Saturday May 26th, 2001 6:22:05 PM
Everyone backs out into the main tunnel, and as the collective brain of the Talons goes to work, those who had a closer look, could see that the weird ooze was semi tansparent - revealing small eliptical objects inside it. Some were slightly larger than others, and had small protrusions which wiggled about a little. There didn't appear to be any obvious presence of magic here, but something was happening - evident by the continual hissing and popping sounds. Orgar scratches his beard. "Whatever it is," he says gravely, "I don't like it." To Figment and Ingrge in particular - it appears perhaps that the ooze is protecting something.
Ingrge Saturday May 26th, 2001 10:04:51 PM
K'narra, what think you about a little magical fire being applies to said ooze. Or perhaps some oil and regular fire?
Dakar Monday May 28th, 2001 7:17:58 PM
"Eggs. They're hatching." states the priest, making the common sensical observation. "That's the birthing fluid. We smash them and go down this tunnel. The mother can't be far." he raises his hammer, and begins to move towards the eggs, warily.
Olana Monday May 28th, 2001 11:00:04 PM
"Eggs?" says the elf? "Oh my - we need less of these things not more," She then nods at Ingrge's suggestion.
Figment Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:35:20 AM
The mage cautions Dakar "Please wait before entering my good man. I believe that the ooze is an animal, not birthing fluid. If you get it on you it will attempt to digest you. I'd say we use oil and natural fire. That way we preserve our magic for the things that can really hurt us and perhaps not damage whatever it is defending for observation.".
Milo Tuesday May 29th, 2001 10:23:29 AM
Milo's head bobs up and down, nodding every time someone mentions the use of fire, and then a thought occurs to him... "Um... guys... won't fire create a lot of smoke... like in underground tunnels... it could get very uncomfortable down here really fast..."
DM Jan Tuesday May 29th, 2001 7:36:15 PM
Suddenly - footsteps are heard and one of the younger dwarves with an extremely short beard appears. He walks to K'Nara and tells her that the guards outside want an update on whats going on, and if they don't get one there'll be hell to pay. K'Nara has no choice but to leave the party for the moment and travel back toward the main entrance. Orgar mutters a highly flavoured dwarven curse aimed at the guards ancestors. "Well," he glowers, "if you're going to burn it then burn it. There's no way that giant beetle is further down there though - the tunnel's too small. The big 'un's down this way." He points to the main tunnel in the direction they were headed originally ie. south.
Dakar d20+4=15 d8+10=16 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 8:19:39 PM
Dakar shrugs his shoulders and raises his hammer. "The ooze won't burn anyway, and I fear if you decide to use your spells we'll have to wait another 8 hours before we leave this tunnel so as not to lose any 'tactical advantage'." The painmonger brings his hammer down at the ooze with a show of raw and unbridled strength, attempting to hit one of the pods encased within. (Power attack, AC 15, 16 damage)
Brother Bertram Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:50:21 PM
Bertram clucks to himself and readies his axe as Dakar charges forward, attempting to massacre the puddle. He waits to see the results of the attack.
Figment Wednesday May 30th, 2001 11:17:37 AM
The mage impatiently waits for Dakar to finish, wondering why he even offers suggestions any more.
Flueterflam Wednesday May 30th, 2001 6:31:08 PM
Quietly, the bard hums to himself so he can pass the time.
Ingrge Wednesday May 30th, 2001 7:07:02 PM
Dakar, stop. I doubt you can do much to that with physical force. It kind a reminds me of frogs eggs. You know, mostly slimy stuff with some embryos scatterred throughout. It should burn nicely with a bit of oil I suggest we head onward and leave this mess to be burnt by a few of your brethren.
Asst. D.M. Kent (Green eggs and ham, anyone?) Wednesday May 30th, 2001 7:40:03 PM
Dakar's attack makes a big splash and sends great gobs of green frothy goo everywhere and covers Dakar from head to toe. Several of the dwarves that were guarding the head of passage look to Orgar for permission and get the nod. "We will stay behind and burn this mess while you go ahead and take care of your business.
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 30th, 2001 10:56:37 PM
Bertram eyes the green, slime coated figure that was Dakar, and after a moment's struggle with himself, starts chuckling, soon it turns to great gales of good-natured laughter. Tears roll down his face as he eyes the sad figure his brother Dwarf makes. "Forgi...gasp...forgive me Brother, but by the gods you look pitiful" Bertram calms himself and tosses a dry cloth from his pack to the poor fellow.
Milo Thursday May 31st, 2001 2:53:25 AM
Milo gasps in pain as he bites down firmly on his own tongue in order to keep from laughing hysterically at Dakar. A tear rolls silently down the halfling's cheek, and he wonders whether it is in pain, or mirth that it was created.
Figment Thursday May 31st, 2001 12:29:01 PM
The mage alternates between nods to Orgar and shakes of his head at Dakar. "I'd say now would be a good time to continue. Lets go.".
Dakar Friday June 1st, 2001 12:44:01 AM
The battlerager sheepishbly accepts the tossed cloth and wipes the goo off himself. "Well. Doesn't look like it was any sort of creature. I think it's safe now." He begins to chuckle, softly at first but then filling the room with his resounding laughter. "By Domi... I've been all too serious lately."
Olanna Friday June 1st, 2001 9:10:31 AM
Holding back a giggle, Olanna looks around at her companions and with a straight face says to Dakar, "It's good to see that you have a lighter side Dakar. Especially when the yolk is on you."
Ingrge Friday June 1st, 2001 9:18:29 AM
Ingrge looks back over his shoulder and says, Ok now, since K'narra is upside for now, I guess we need to try to carry on with our plan. Milo, Olanna, you guys want to take point? Dakar and I will go next followed by Bertram and Figment. Fluet, do you mind bringing up the rear? After we get a scouting report I suggest that, Figment and I will fill the cavern with a bit of magic and then we go in. If possible, we should spread out a bit once in the cavern and try to coordinate our attacks.
Asst. DM Kent Friday June 1st, 2001 9:25:56 AM
The dwarves get to work saturating the slime with oil. As the group gets situated and heads down the passage, for the first time they mood seems lighter than any can remember in days. Fifteen minutes of walking, and you see what can only be the opening of the cavern. There is a lone dwarven guard about 20 feet from the cavern entry and 40 ft from you.
Brother Bertram Friday June 1st, 2001 10:04:33 AM
Bertram nods acquiescence to Ingrge and moves into the formation set. As he settles besides Figment he can not help but notice the change in everyone after the unfortunate incident with Dakar and the slime. Everyone seems in much better spirits, relieving Bertram of some of the concerns he had when he first met them. Thinking back once again on the slime and Dakar, Bertram grins and nudges Figment ,pointing towards the remains of the slime on the dwarf's backside. "I feel sorry for whoever runs into Dakar today, Friend Figment!"
Milo d20+14=24 Friday June 1st, 2001 11:18:04 AM
Milo nods to Ingrge, grinning all the while. Stepping up to point next to Olana, the halfling gives her sort of a mock salute, and then pads quietly beside her down the passage, short sword resting across one shoulder. (OOC: Made a move silently check DC 24)
Flueterflam Friday June 1st, 2001 2:32:04 PM
The bard follows everyone. Every so often, he stops, turns to look behind himself, then follows the party again. The caves make him uneasy, so he holds on to his dagger carefully, in case anything should SUDDENLY happen without warning.
Figment Saturday June 2nd, 2001 11:33:40 AM
The mage banters with Bertram about what's coming up and prepares to cast at a moments notice. "Yes my good Dwarf, I'd have to say I'm glad he's on our side. As for strategy, I intend to use my web/lightning bolt combination if at all possible. Whatever Ingrge has planned should come in concert. That way we will have a delay of a few moments for prepare for the assault and they will have taken some substantial damage before the fighters press their attack. Hopefully it will take no more than one attack per bug after that.".
K'Nara (who is methodically trudging back to the party) Monday June 4th, 2001 5:46:14 PM Domi preserve me from idiots!!! the tall auburn-haired warrior fumed as she made her way carefully back through the passages of the dwarven mine, stopping occasionally to consult Helga's map. She wasn't used to the subterranean environment and had NO desire to become lost...which K'Nara ran the risk of now that she was returning from having to give an "update" of the Talons' progress to a thick-witted sub-lackey of Parnoth's!
Flaming dunce! the human bladesinger opined mentally. I think with lackeys like that, perhaps neither the Tines nor the Talons will have to work too hard to bring Parnoth down. Hmmmph!
Then K'Nara lifted her flaming sword higher and continued her way down, down the tunnels.
Asst. Dm Kent (Peek-A- Boo) Monday June 4th, 2001 8:03:45 PM
Olanna and Milo start to make their way down to peer in to the cavern entrance when the whole party smells an unbelievable stench of smoke mixed with some putrid green smell. (role fortitude DC10 or lose your lunch)
K'narra makes her way back down the tunnels and is fairly sure shes going the right way, when moments later she is rewarded with finding the cavern with the trapped beetel in it. From there she starts down the next passage and soon she hears the sounds of crackling flames and she smells something really nasty (Fortitude DC10 or lose your lunch)moments later you come upon the egg tunnel and several very green looking dwarves.
Dakar d20+10=19 Monday June 4th, 2001 10:30:39 PM
Grimacing, Dakar heads further forward with the rest of the group. Seeing the reactions on some of his companions faces he turns to them with a quizzical look on his face. "Does something smell amiss?" he asks, so used to his own sweat and odors that this new scent presents nothing offensive to him.
K'Nara d20+10=17 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 6:29:15 AM
K'Nara paused briefly by the dwarves with the chartreuse tinge to their faces.
"Are you all...all right..?" she asked in Common, smelling that horrible smell and coughing a couple of times. (OOC: fortunately K'Nara didn't roll a 1 on her Fort save. 8D)
"The others...they went that way..?" the tall human queried, pointing down the tunnel that was supposed to lead to where they'd originally figured one of the large giant beetles to be.
Figment d20+4=16 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:35:45 AM
The mage covers his nose with his sleeve and continues down the tunnel. "Perhaps it was a good thing to allow the dwarves to burn that green ooze. Otherwise we may not have fared so well as we vomited in their presence. Let's move on quickly - please.".
Brother Bertram d20+7=25 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:41:38 AM
Bertram is moving along when he becomes aware of a horrible stench. He quickly covers his nose and mouth with a small cloth, trying not to retch all over his companions.
Olana d20+3=11 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 9:48:28 PM
"Ewwwww....." whispers the elf to Milo as they progress down the tunnel, her stomach giving an alarming lurch. Barely holding down her stomach contents, she advances toward the dwarf sentry and looks beyond.
DM Jan d20+8=28 d12+3=8 d4=3 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:01:35 PM
The nasty pong starts to dissipate. At the cavern entrance, those near the dwarf sentry see shadows shifting slightly ahead in the gloom. The dwarf sentry raises a finger to his mouth and says - "Shh.... oh crikey! Run!"
Ahead goes completely black, as though suddenly - something has blocked the already dark cavern ahead. There is a hiss, and Olana is hit by some strange liquid. The force of the stuff causes her to be knocked back (for 8 DAM), and a strange mist begins to rise slowly from her armour.
15 minutes behind the rest of the party, K'Nara is told - "That way..." croaked aloud by a few sickly dwarves who have torched the egg mass.
Flueterflam d20+1=6 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:30:46 PM
As Fluet is walking along behind the group, lost in thoughts, he suddenly notices the most putrid smell he can ever remember smelling. Moments later he stops to spew all over the tunnel's floor. After regaining what little he can of his composure, the bard manages a slight request, "Let's leave soon, please!!!" He holds his breath as long as possible, fearing another 'outburst'.
Dakar Tuesday June 5th, 2001 11:43:43 PM
Dakar raises an eyebrow at the bard before noting the cavern growing dark ahead. "Looks like the father bug has come to play!" he shouts, focusing his low-light vision on the cavern ahead and moving to take cover behind any rock protrusions if he can't see the incoming bug.
Milo d20+7=12 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 1:44:16 AM
Barely able to contain his stomach as the smell passes, Milo quickly moves ahead keeping his eye on the passage. As all grows dark, and then Olana is struck, his eyes spring open wide, "By Alemi, that thing must be huge..." Turning to Olana, Milo grabs an arm or leg that isn't smoking, and pulls, attempting to move her down the passage, away from the giant bug's arse. "Come along... time to let the wizards do their job."
K'Nara Wednesday June 6th, 2001 5:45:05 AM
"My thanks, friends," the tall human female said, nodding to the dwarves, "Buck up! Soon my Talons will have your caves and tunnels back to normal!" Then K'Nara turned and quickly but carefully followed the passage indicated by the still-nauseous earthkin, using the flames of Lucia to see by.
Ingrge d20=16 5d6(6+4+4+3+1)=18 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 10:58:08 AM
Managing to keep his stomach's contents a secret, Ingrge covers his mouth and nose with a cloth and after Milo and Olanna retreat steps up for a closer look.(how full is the cavern entry?) Ingrge looks to Figment and then motions for the others to back up a bit. Noting how far the beast's liquid projectile went Ingrge tries to stay out of range and starts casting a spell, trying to focus the spell roughly five feet into the cavern, in front of the beastie( if not possible will ceter the ball on beastie's rear end. (Fireball - 18 points reflex save for 1/2 damage DC16)
Figment 6d6(5+4+3+5+3+6)=26 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 12:19:18 PM
The mage decides to fire as well casting a lightnig bolt straight through the creature - and hopefully through anything on the other side. (Beginning directly in front of the party. 26 dmg)
Olana Thursday June 7th, 2001 12:18:17 AM
The elf gives a startled yelp as she's hurled backward. With Milo's help, she scrambles further away. Looking down, she frowns. "Oh dear, what IS this stuff?"
DM Jan Thursday June 7th, 2001 12:35:49 AM
The double strike from Ingrge and Figment makes a great pyrotechnic display and for a moment everyone is blinded.
The gloom returns, although everyone has spots in front of their eyes, particularly those with dark and low light vision. Up ahead - the cavern entrance still seems blocked, although now there doesn't appear to be any movement. Funnily enough - the new smell in the air - cooked beetle, actually smells rather tasty.
The dwarf sentry takes one look at Olana and starts running, bowling into Fluet and Bertram before continuing. ((Fluet & Bertie - Dex against DC 15 to stay on your feet))
Further back down the tunnel, K'Nara's sword causes shadows to flicker and dance on the walls as she advances toward the others. Then - somewhere up ahead, she hears a mighty blast, there's what looks like a temporary increase in light, and then - she sees a dwarf hurtling in her direction. He stops at a nearby tunnel at her right and cries out - "Water! Water!" There's an echo as he calls out, and K'Nara hears another voice elsewhere - to the left this time - "Water... water..." ((Another round and K'Nara rejoins the party))
Flueterflam d20+1=16 Thursday June 7th, 2001 1:38:53 AM
"Whoa...." Fluet shouts, startled by the dwarf. He conveniently pulls his body barely out of the dwarf's way.
K'Nara d20-1=14 Thursday June 7th, 2001 6:03:17 AM
"By the Sisters!!!" gasped K'Nara as the explosion rocked the tunnel. "What in the Wold--?" Her rhetorical question was cut short by the sudden appearance of the dwarf.
"Earthkin!" the tall human woman shouted. "What happened? Why are you yelling for water? Where are the others--the Emerald Talons..?" As she asks these things of the anxious dwarf, K'Nara looks him over with concern to see if he's injured at all. (OOC: rolled a Spot check for 14)
Ingrge Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:25:06 AM
Stepping aside and looking back at the rest of the party, Ingrge chuckles a quiet, Now that is how things should be done," and then more loudly, "Dakar, you may now forge ahead and see what is left to be done."
Figment Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:39:12 AM
The mage hears the dwarf's cry for water and deduces that they'd better act quickly. "Olana, we must quickly get that poison off you. It appears to have acid qualities and will probably hurt you more.". He pulls out his water flask and tries to use it to help in the cleaning process if possible. As he looks ahead he says "Careful Dakar, keep an eye out on those smaller beetles.".
Milo Thursday June 7th, 2001 4:57:32 PM
Getting the idea, Milo sheaths his short sword, and pulls out a waterskin, dousing Olana's armor in water along side Figment. "Looking up at Olana... I sure hope this works..." The halfling suddenly grins, "Actually its too bad you have this armor on, otherwise this'd be a wet tunic contest..." Milo erupts into giggles.
Brother Bertram d20+4=5 Thursday June 7th, 2001 9:24:32 PM
Bertram is still recovering from the fantastic light display when he feels his feet knocked from under him and he hits the ground with a loud grunt as the wind is knocked from his lungs. He lies there a moment composing himself before rising slowly trying to regain his breath, and his dignity.
Dakar Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:34:13 PM
Dakar hefts his axe and trundles off towards the blockage of the cavern ahead. "We'll show them how we mine beetle from the cavern walls, eh axe?" he says, stroking the blade lovingly.
Olana Friday June 8th, 2001 1:37:20 AM
Rather unnerved at the dwarf's reaction at running off, the elf starts getting a little nervous and has no qualms about Figment and Milo throwing water all over her. She keeps her eyes on the water's effect, while wagging a finger at Milo's comment and giggling nervously.
DM Jan Friday June 8th, 2001 1:43:23 AM
"Poison!" announces the dwarf to K'nara, and "That way!" pointing down the tunnel. ((She should reach them this round.))
Back up at the cavern entrance, Bertram rises to his feet after being knocked down flat - Fluet is probably glad he didnt suffer the same fate. And while Figment and Milo slosh water onto Olana, they can see the smoking lessens where the water touches.
Dakar and Ingrge are able to see that the cavern entrance is completely blocked with fried beetle, if anyone wishes to look beyond - it's going to take a few blows to do so.
K'Nara Friday June 8th, 2001 6:43:41 AM
"Poison? Oh, hell--" K'Nara cut herself off and sprinted down the tunnel, spying the familiar figures of her party shortly.
"What happened? Was anyone hurt..?" demanded the tall redhead with the flaming sword as K'Nara ran up to them and skidded to a stop.
Figment Friday June 8th, 2001 12:19:25 PM
The mage continues to help Olana. "Ingrge and I fried the big beetle - but not before it nailed Olana with a dose of poision. Any bwater you have will be most useful. It's body now blocks our way. Somehow I think Dakar will be instrumental in fixing that problem. Hey Dakar - remember that this bug will stink profusely once cut. Perhaps you should attempt to push it out of the way?".
Dakar Monday June 11th, 2001 10:19:39 AM
Dakar nods back to Figment before wrapping his corded arms around whatever part of the beetle he can get a hold of and, grunting, beginning to drag it out of the cavern's entrance (Dakar can drag 1750 lbs of beetle, if it weighs more than that we're in trouble anyway.)
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