Feast Feast Feast Feast. (DM SteveK) Monday June 21st, 2021 6:39:00 AM
Sarge bows. "Thank you, Forge Lord, for this great honor," she says.
Toston says, "I never thought I'd join a Dwarven clan. If only my grand-da could see me now. He went to the lands of rest but he was the one that told me tales of Domi and Alemi as a child."
Desdichado follows Sarge's lead, bows his head and says "Thank you, Forge Lord."
Gaffer bows his head too, while smiling "I feel honored, thank you, Forge Lord." and marvels at the blue stone.
Hmerrin marvels "Sweeet", before catching himself. "Uh, thank you, Forge Lord. This is a great honor." ……………
Thanks done, gifts done, the leaders of the local dwarf clans soon retire for the evening. Forge Lord Ulthern, Lord Hammerhand, LordDeephall, and Lady SilvermaneIt don’t troop the hall to the main doors or depart in further ceremony, but slip away behind the great table. (Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { A very cleverly hidden secret door that looks like the stone wall opens, and they are gone. } ) Sarge knows this is normal, and any dwarf sitting nearby knows too; the Lords leave early to drink together and discuss things, while everyone else can carry on with the feast.
More drink, more food, more drink, more songs, more drink… The long horns announce the day dawning before the party starts to break up. Many dwarf congratulate the heroes, clap them on the back, or raise yet another granite stein in acknowledgement. And as dwarf return to beds, songs and weaving lines of dwarf arm in arm fill the corridors.
The Tide can eventually find their chambers.
And there, they find yet another surprise. On each bed is a small chest: box, walls, lid and even the hinges cunningly carved as a single piece from alabaster jade streaked in green. Inside are gemstones: agate and beryl, onyx and garnet, jasper and shimmering moonstone. A note explains the miners of DeepForge wished to express their own appreciation for the Tide. Altogether, the worth to each hero is 20,000gp!
(Heroes have the initiative for any actions) …………………
OOC: The Tide can rest and recuperate here in DeepForge as long as the team wishes.
All heroes gain 100,000xp for successful module completion! 8,000 Scene1 4,000 Scene 2 10,000 Scene 3 15,000 Scene 4 100,000 Bonus 137,000 xp since October 2020 takes the CMTC to 14th level.
Note 1: If your PC is not 14th level, adjust to the minimum of 445,000xp Note 2: All PCs should have a minimum of 170,000 gp WBL Note 3: Please update PC sheets NLT 27 June for DM review.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Monday June 21st, 2021 12:58:45 PM
Sarge examines the box and the gems with an appreciative eye before stowing them with the rest of her gear.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:33 T:19 FF:26 CMD:33) Monday June 21st, 2021 7:39:22 PM
In the wee hours, Hmerrin blearily stumbles back to his quarters. Noting the chest, he opens it, and takes in all the gems. "Very nice," he murmurs.
Then, he collapses onto his bed and sleeps for the next 10 hours.
The next day, after a cold, cold, mug of water, he feels better. Upon reexamining the contents of the chest, he is much more appreciative.
"Maybe there's something else we can kill for your Forge Lord," he comments happily to Sarge. "The coming home party is awesome!"
A bit later, while again looking at the gems, he asks, "There wouldn't happen to be a WLA Chapterhouse here, would there?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Monday June 21st, 2021 7:54:25 PM
"Now that was a celebration!" says Desdichado as the party breaks up and everyone groggily stumbles back to their quarters.
Late the next day he wakes up and gets back into a routine - mostly of enjoying the table - he asks, "Since we've been adopted by the clan, are there rights and responsibilities that go along with that?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:42/27/35 vs G6; 37/22/30 vs everyone else - CMD 34 d20+24=38 ; Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 1:55:03 AM
(Perception: 38)
Toston notices the hidden passageway.
He also appreciates the gem box. He carefully stows his hat and outfit and goes to bed.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 113/113 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:29) Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 4:52:11 AM
After a long day and many drinks Gaffer ignores the chest as he stumbles over to bed and falls quickly to sleep for a well deserved rest.
Rights and Responsibilities (DM SteveK) Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 8:07:36 AM
Sarge, Hmerrin, Desdichado, Toston, and Gaffer all sleep the sleep of the just. Just inebriated, just stuffed with food, just inducted as honorary members of DeepForge Clan!
However, even such a great rest has to come to an end. Eventually (eventually!), there is a next day.
The chest and gems are a welcome sight, some appreciating it more when they are awake enough to truly see.
Hmerrin wants to know about the possibility of a WLA Chapterhouse, and should be pleased to know the Clan has a small group here. The young man gets a guide who takes him through the soaring halls of the Clan, some lit by glowing lichen, some by magic, and some by roaring fire. Near the trading hall is where dwarf who are affiliated with outland organizations. There he sees a sign for the Sages Guild, another for the Mailed Fist, and then the familiar Tower of the WLA. Yes, here Hmerrin can train, get information, or anything else he may wish.
Desdichado has an interesting question that escaped scrutiny in the revelry last night. Being adopted, they weren’t told of any rights or responsibilities to go along with the name. This is answered when stops by towards the evening meal.
”Ah yes, you see Forge Lord Ulthern didn’t only name you honorary clan, but Most Honored. And you may want to remember three things as Most Honored non-dwarf.
First, Any clan member can ask for assistance from another clan member with dual expectations. The asked clan will help if feasible, and the asker will be in debt to the clan member they asked until the debt is paid.
Second, Any clan member can also expect the protection of the clan even without asking, and are expected to defend the clan in turn; whether with body or with boast.
Third, As Most Honored, however, Forge Lord Ulthern provided status and changed your rights and responsibilities. In short, you will never be asked to help. The Most Honored are assumed to always do actions that support the lives and honor of the Clan, and the Dwarf Lords trust that in your judgement you will always do what is right.”
The dwarf’s words sink in, both more freeing and an even heavier responsibility than a mere list of rules.
(The heroes have the initiative on any actions)
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 4:16:39 PM
Sarge gives Dez a friendly clap on the shoulder. "Don't worry about all the responsibility," she says. "You get used to it."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 4:57:55 PM
“What can I say?” says Desdichado, “I’m a paladin. If I didn’t have an overdeveloped sense of responsibility, I’d be in the wrong career.”
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:33 T:19 FF:26 CMD:33) Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 8:39:39 PM
"Uh," Hmerrin replies to Stohl, "if we off gallivanting around, and you need help, how are we gonna know, if you can't ask us for it?"
Seems like a problem to the young fighter. But, its a problem for another day.
Having located the local chapter of the Woldian League, he drops down 3500 gp in dues for the Officer rank, and places himself at the tender mercies of whoever is gonna teach him to Die Hard.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:42/27/35 vs G6; 37/22/30 vs everyone else - CMD 34 Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 10:41:08 PM
Toston joins Hmerrin at the WLA as he is currently already an Champion rank all Toston has to do is put in his time at the spellcraft training lesson.
He also shows his friends the gold dragon wings he can grow as a standard action and fly around using.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 5:03:39 AM
Understanding their new responsibilities, and with Hmerrin's comment about them often being on the move, he would like to talk to Stohl, or whoever is appropriate, about any large plants they tend to here that Gaffer might be able to use for Transport via Plants to directly reach the stronghold if they are needed.
Two Weeks (DM SteveK) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 7:57:11 AM
Sarge and Desdichado banter about overdeveloped senses of responsibility, a perfect conversation for both dwarf and paladin!
Hmerrin is still worried. “If we off gallivanting around, and you need help, how are we gonna know, if you can't ask us for it?" Stohl shakes his beard, “As a Most Honored clan member, if you are gallivanting, every DeepForge dwarf knows you are aware of your status and will act accordingly. We don’t need to ask.”
The young fighter also goes into some serious training. It really isn’t something anyone wants to discuss or remember, but Hmerrin goes into the WLA training facility and two weeks later comes out. He looks worn and wrung-out, his hair matted and there are deep circles under bloodshot eyes. His clothes are musty, worn too long, damp too long, and they are patched, stained, and only fit to be tossed into the fire. But there is new-found steel in Hmerrin’s stance, and he leaves with a new ability to keep going when most anyone else would drop.
Toston joins Hmerrin at the WLA and has a very different experience, in a magic lab discussing and practicing techniques for a bit more Spellcraft.
Gaffer wants to keep touch with the DeepForge clan and considers plants to magically transport to the dwarf halls and keep in periodic touch that way. Stohl refers the druid to the local druid circle for further coordination. It is a small group, obviously not nearly as skilled as Gaffer, and they mostly tend to the underground mushrooms, lichen, and other vegetation that supplement a dwarf diet. After conferring, they are pretty sure that Transport via Plants could be a way of getting around the teleport prohibition in the Scab. “I’ll bet you and our Tide clanmembers can emerge from a giant mushroom quite close to your home of Dirt City!”
……..
Two weeks pass, training is accomplished, Catacombs can be visited, equipment repaired and readied, bodies healed and relaxed.
Haldrick Silvervien, often visits Fryda and the other Tide. Discussing if DeepForge has any other monsters in need of removal, the old dwarf shakes his hand in a mebbe-so gesture. “DeepForge sent an Agent to do a bit of active recon and Torvalsson hasn’t returned yet. Not due for a bit, so not worried. If you are interested in setting up a message service, we can tell you what he and his team find when they get back.”
(The heroes have the initiative on any actions)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:33 T:19 FF:26 CMD:33) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:37:58 PM
Upon his return, Hmerrin sleeps, eats, and cleans up. In that order.
It takes nearly a day for the fighter to return to his usual chipper self.
"Always happy to set up a message service," he responds to Haldrick. He glances at Sarge, "You know how to do that, right?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 8:11:13 PM
Desdichado looks askance at the talk of "travelling via mushroom". He raises an eyebrow, but keeps his opinions to himself.
"Right, I'm ready to be off," he says. "So, should we check in on Dirt City? I'm curious how 'Tide House' has been while we've been away. But if others have thoughts on other things we should be doing, I'm all ears."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 9:37:09 PM
"Well, there are a couple of ways of setting up a message service," Sarge says. "I can certainly cast a Message spell if we need one. But Animal Messenger is going to be beyond me. Or we could just hire people."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:42/27/35 vs G6; 37/22/30 vs everyone else - CMD 34 Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:12:17 AM
Toston says, "Maybe we can set something up between here and us with the help of Nissa? I mean isn't animal messenger a druid thing but don't arcanists have some options too? I'm a sorcerer not a wizard but she is a wizard so maybe she'd be better at suggesting things."
Toston gets a hang of his new wings (OOC: need to do followers / cohort leveling and do gear purchases but that prolly will happen when I'm back from vacation)
Two Weeks (DM SteveK) Thursday June 24th, 2021 8:30:14 AM
Hmerrin recuperates until he returns to his usual chipper self.
Desdichado looks askance at the talk of "travelling via mushroom", but keeps his opinions to himself. The paladin is ready to check back into Dirt City and Tide House after all.
Sarge and Toston ticks off different ways they *could* manage more regular communication. Maybe even Nissa could be involved. Oh, doesn’t Toston have great-looking wings?!
(The heroes have the initiative on any actions)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:33 T:19 FF:26 CMD:33) Thursday June 24th, 2021 6:41:01 PM
"I'm with Dez," Hmerrin chimes in. "Time to be heading home."
He stretches and scratches his chin. "So, that's what, a few days walk, then a river ride, and then walking some more, right?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday June 24th, 2021 8:49:32 PM
Gaffer will of course offer to teleport the party closer to Dirt City through the mushrooms, he's excited about the prospect but already knows a few of the party members are not so keen. "It's quick and painless and you'll hardly notice that you're inside a mushroom, I promise."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:42/27/35 vs G6; 37/22/30 vs everyone else - CMD 34 Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:07:00 PM
Toston says, "You guys can walk if you want, but I may fly."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:32:44 PM
"If you are all okay with it, I'm willing to risk the disgustingness of traveling by mushroom," says Desdichado. "It would save some time. I still think it sounds gross, though."
Is it any Wonder?
Giant Mushroom: Mooshy Giant Friend. (DM SteveK) Friday June 25th, 2021 4:39:26 AM
The Tide gather up and go to the dwarf Druid’s mushroom grove. While Desdichado is less-than-eager, even Toston appreciates ‘not-walking’.
Before you is the largest mushroom, a great-granddaddy of ‘shrooms! When ready, Gaffer, casts his Transport via Plants and touches the mushroom… and there is a blue spark that arcs to Gaffer’s Stone of Forge Lord!
The Stone glows blue, and flickers. Then it pulses, time seeming to slow with every beat…
….. Hero Post: In the next post, Heroes can perform Free or Swift actions only!!
Spellcraft Dc20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The effect is no known spell. The best comparison is a spell that is catastrophically going wrong…}
Know History or Know Arcana Dc20 Highlight to display spoiler: {As the Stone pulses, symbols and patterns glow. It is enough to identify Gaffer’s Stone as Teucri made!}
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Friday June 25th, 2021 1:02:58 PM
Desdichado, completely confused as to what is happening, watches with a mix of awe, horror, and concern for Gaffer as he reaches out a hand toward his friend to make sure he's alright.
"I knew this would be gross. But gross and dangerous...!" he laments.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+13=22 ; Friday June 25th, 2021 1:45:12 PM
"Huh."
Sarge finds the light show odd, but not yet alarming.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+4=6 ; Friday June 25th, 2021 6:52:21 PM
Gaffer is very taken aback by the lights, he does not know what is happening but... "I err don't this is part of the spell everyone."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:35) Saturday June 26th, 2021 9:53:57 AM
"Take the 'shrooms, they said. It'll be fun, they said," Hmerrin sing songs sarcastically, mostly to himself.
In a flash, he's drawn his axes, expecting the worst.
Toston says, "Soemthing has gone serious wrong and somehow Gaffer's stone is a Teucri artifact"
Toston waits to see what is going on.
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 1. (DM SteveK) Monday June 28th, 2021 3:22:27 AM
Desdichado, completely confused as to what is happening! "I knew this would be gross. But gross and dangerous...!" he laments.
Sarge finds the light show odd, but not (yet) alarming.
Gaffer is taken aback by the lights, and doesn’t know what is happening, but he is certain this is NOT a part of the spell!
Hmerrin draws his axes and sarcastically vents on the dangers of taking ‘shrooms…
Toston identifies that Gaffer’s Sone is also a dormant Teucri artifact!
…………
Dormant no longer, the Stone pauses, well, not really, but there is no other way to describe it, and then flares in a great burst of sparkling blue light!. (Teucri Flare DC 15 Will or Highlight to display spoiler: { heroes who fail saves are affected as the spell Blindness. Permanently blind. })
As the sparkles disappear from our heroes’ eyes (ooc: those who are not blind: see above), they notice two things...
The first is they are inside a shimmering blue ball 50’ radius. At the center of the ball is a round door hanging in mid-air, 25’ up. A softer blue bubble surrounds the door.
Perception Check #1 DC 15. Highlight to display spoiler: {The heroes are standing on the inside surface of the sphere. Even though the blue, glowing ‘ground’ curves all around them, no matter where they are, the blue ball surface is ‘down’ and towards the door is ‘up’. }
Perception Check #2 DC20. Highlight to display spoiler: {The blue sphere isn’t exactly a sphere. It ‘looks’ right, but also looks wrong… like it is flatter, but not really.}
The second is they are not alone. Six other beings are in the sphere. Four are easily identified as a Hill Giant, a Wemic, a Dwarf, and a Hellhound, standing still as statues. A quick glance can confirm all four look like Perception DC 5 Highlight to display spoiler: { shows all four have taken mortal wounds.} Then there are the 20’ tall, fat humanoids with the hideous head of a boar and arms ending in fatty, four-fingered hands. Vestigal bat-wings sprout from the dirty back in a parody of usefulness. Know Religion Dc 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { These are Nalfneshnee, demons of the Land of Unrest, known for their unparalleled yet mad intellects. They have damage resistance, immune to electricity and poison, resistant to most other energies, and have spell resistance too!}
One points at the Tide and immediately accuses the party of trapping them here. “Release us and we’ll kill you!”
The second giggles, then cackles, “you said ‘and’, my sister”.
“Huh”, replies the first with a shrug, “ ‘And’ it is!” Both of them begin to glow, a nimbus of nauseating beams of writhing color playing around their bodies! At the same time, they both cast spells at the Tide, hampering their movements! (ooc: All heroes make 2 saves Will DC 18 or be slowed)
…………………………………………………………………… Map in email
M1 AC 29 M2 AC 29
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Monday June 28th, 2021 4:31:00 PM
Greetings Woldians!
We have TWO games that have achieved Level 20 and just retired over the weekend! So in our usual tradition, we're holding a celebration for the next few days on the Giggling Ghost board!
Folks are already beginning to gather. We expect everyone to join in and post daily on the GG board, but all are excused from posting in their "regular career game" through Wednesday at least. :) It doesn't mean you can't post, just that you don't have to.
DMs if you're in combat, feel free to just post a "pause until after Wednesday" if you'd like, or you can do that anyway. These celebrations are important as both of these games have players who have been working for at least 9 years to achieve this retirement for their PCs.
--DMs may take the role of an NPC or 2 if they wish and hand out dishes, create action, help out, etc. --Anyone may take the stage and tell a story or sing a song. --Post as many times a day as you'd like on the Giggling Ghost board.
Entertain yourselves and enjoy!
Yes you may go there now and post. Yes you should go there now and post. What are you waiting for? Yes, now is fine. Are you still reading this? Why?
Desdichado is taken aback by the intensity of the flash and sudden relocation to another - realm? - but is able to keep his sight. The strangeness of the geography pulls at the paladin's mind - he knows things don't look right, but has no way to articulate to the others, or to himself, just what seems wrong.
"I'm guessing this ISN'T the inside of a mushroom? Doesn't look much better than what I was expecting, though."
It's then that he notices the others - four of whom seem mortally wounded - and the two Nalfeshnee who now attack.
Shrugging off the attempts at holding him in place, he pulls out his greataxe and makes his way towards what he thinks - in the confusing landscape - is the nearest demon. (Move to N:7)"Ah, now this is something I do understand! Smiting demons!"
(OOC: The row numbers don't align to cells for me, so 7 down on column N appears to align with number 8.)
-- Hmerrin blinks his eyes to get the spots out of his eyes, while deciphering the layout of the sphere. "Well, good. I can kill those two without having to fly to do it."
The ones not doing anything he'll leave to Sarge.
The fighter is feeling good. He even shakes off the demon's spell attacks.
Using the curve, he rushes the "nearest" demon, and plants an axe into it.
--- Charge 60, which I believe gets me to AN 7. Mobility feat makes AC vs AoO 34
Power Attack M1 hits ac42 for 25 hp damage
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 1. (DM SteveK) Tuesday June 29th, 2021 1:06:22 AM
(PAUSE. Next DM Post for Thursday)
Toston easily resists all effects and succeeds on the perception checks though his knowledge of religion is not strong enough to figure out whatever these things are.
Toston casts mage armor, grabs his quicken metamagic rod and then casts shield.
Active Effects: Mage Armor: +4 AC Shield : +4 shield to AC; immunity magic missile
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+19=20 ; d20+19=36 ; d20+19=36 ; d20+24=33 ; d20+24=31 ; d20+24=35 ; 15d6=49 ; d20+16=18 ; Wednesday June 30th, 2021 7:04:54 AM
Will Save: 20 Perception: 33 Perception: 31 Perception: 35 Will Save: 36 Will Save: 36
Gaffers eyes water as light flashes and his movements turn sluggish for a moment but he shakes it off as he takes in the surroundings. "Definitely not how this spell usually works, but lets figure that out later."
He takes in the other creatures and as Des highlights two as demons it makes the question of what to do a lot easier. He will cast an empowered Flame Strike centered on AP18
Flame Strike: DC 21 for Half, Damage: 49*1.5 = 74, Half Fire and Half Divine; CL Check for SR: 18
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+19=28 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+19=33 ; d20+19=32 ; d6=6 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday June 30th, 2021 4:57:33 PM
Sarge isn't blinded by the flash [Will save 28], but finds the inside of the sphere a trifle disorienting.
She recognizes the demons a beat after Dez does [Religion 31].
She is unaffected by the spells [Will saves 33 and 32].
"Well, that wasn't very nice," she says. "I think what we need here is allies. If you will permit me..." She moves closer to the giant, wemic, dwarf, and hellhound, then channels positive energy. They each heal 13 damage, which should at least keep them from dying.
[OOC: Sarge is finally leveled up. Sorry; the heat wave melted my brain.]
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 2. (DM SteveK) d20+26=42 ; 2d6+14=24 ; d20+19=36 ; d20+19=24 ; d20=15 ; d20=12 ; d20=19 ; d10=1 ; d10=4 ; d10=9 ; Thursday July 1st, 2021 3:54:12 AM
Desdichado is taken aback by the sudden relocation. The presence of two Nalfeshnee is something he does understand, and he moves forward, greataxe in hand.
Hmerrin blinks his eyes while deciphering the current layout. And there is nothing wrong with his feet, for a charge up the curve gets Hmerrin within striking distance! M1 giggles and lashes out with a claw (AOO 42. Dam 24) Hmerrin responds by slashing hard, but as his axe slashes through, some of the demon’s skin instantly reknits! (ooc: Hmerrin knows it is DR10/unknown !)
Toston easily resists all effects and the eye-warping weirdness. Staying in place, he prepares by casting mage armor, and then a quickened shield with his metamagic rod.
Gaffer’s eyes water but he shakes off any magical sluggishness. Spell effects need to be figured out later, first… Flame Strike! When the flames end, the Nalfeshnee is untouched: they have Spell Resistance! (ooc: Gaffer knows it is SR 25)
Sarge isn't blinded, but finds the inside of the sphere a trifle disorienting. Recognizing the demons, she also looks for allies. Her 30’ positive energy burst can’t get all four, but she is able to put herself in position to heal the Hill Giant and Dwarf!
……………. M1 cackles at Hmerrin, ”Sending minions to soften us up didn’t work, mortal, and now you are within reach!” Then, in opposition to its words, the demon withdraws from Hmerrin, flying out of reach and landing near the revived dwarf. ”So nice to see you again!” it leers.
M2 also uses its vestigial wings and flies across the sphere until in-between the hellhound and centaur. ”Tut, tut, none of that. You will be my special plaything!” It focuses on Toston, casting a spell which strips the Dragon Disciple’s Mage Armor and Shield spells! Spellcraft DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Greater Dispel Magic! }.
And then… both sickening light shows burst 60’ into the room, lashing non-demons with visions of madness! Everyone is affected by M1. All heroes, hill giant, and dwarf make Will Save DC22 or be Dazed for d10 rounds. Only Sarge and Hill Giant is affected by M2. Make a second Will Save DC 22 or be Dazed for d10 rounds.
Hill Giant shrugs and looks about, then becomes Dazed for 1 round.
Dwarf is wearing working clothes and a singed leather apron, becomes Dazed for 4 rounds.
The hellhound and centaur don’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… Map in email
M1 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 15 M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 0
Hill Giant – 13 hp Dazed Dwarf – 13 hp Dazed
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Desdichado is not dazed by the demon. Instead, he asks a brief blessing from Domi on his weapon, causing the axe to glow with a faint blue aura. "We're not whoever you think we are, but I won't let that stop us from putting an end to whatever you're doing here," he says as he pivots toward the demon near him. (move to Q10)
Active effects ---------- Divine bond (+4, 84 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR
Hmerrin turns to pursue the demon, but finds himself swirling amid visions of potato farms and his da yelling at him about playing hero.....
---- Dazed rd 1 of 6.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+19=26 ; d20+16=33 ; Thursday July 1st, 2021 8:03:58 PM
Will Save: 26 Gaffer blinks away yet another flash of light and tries a second time to bring about some effect with fire, of sorts.
Gaffer casts Sunbeam (with a solid CL check of 33, hoping it is one check for the spells duration.) His hands now ablaze, he moves to L11, ready to attack next turn.
----- Active Effects ----- Sunbeam - 14/14 rounds | 4/4 Beams - Reflex DC 24 to Negate permanent blind and half damage.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+20=34 ; Thursday July 1st, 2021 10:32:05 PM
WIll Save (+2 due to monk's class ability; +2 from stone of forge lord) : 34
Toston saves against the daze then casts another mage armor and quicken casts another shield using the rod.
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 8 min; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile 3/7 - 1st level spells remaining 1/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 3 (DM SteveK) d20+26=40 ; d20+19=22 ; d20+19=37 ; 2d6+14=20 ; Friday July 2nd, 2021 3:08:40 AM
Desdichado again overcomes the demonic spells, calls for Domi’s blessing, and pivots to chase down the nearest demon. (move to Q10)
Hmerrin finds himself swirling amid visions of potato farms and his da yelling at him about playing hero..... horrific!
Gaffer blinks away yet another flash of light and casts Sunbeam (ooc1: spell resistance is like an Armor Class against magical attacks. Gaffer will have to roll each time trying to affect a being with Spell Resistance.). (Ooc2: casting time includes using the first beam at your option. A line effect is also automatic hit, so Gaffer can use the first CL check last post and additional attack next post.)
Toston saves against the daze then casts another mage armor and quicken casts another shield using the rod.
………. M1 giggles. “Oh, is the horrors of the Lands of Unrest too much for you? Let me help end your misery!” It flies back and lands next to Hmerrin, claws ready to flash. (AC 40. Dam 20)
M2 claps it’s pudgy hands in delight. “Plaything! You are going to be such fun!” It flies up to near the door, hovering in mid-air, and casts another Greater Dispel Magic, removing Toston’s Mage Armor and Shield again! “Do it again, my pet, please?”
Hill giant shakes off the Daze effect. “Why Pig-Four-Arms and dog attack until Bobo couldn’t move? You in trouble now Pig-Four-Arms!” The Hill Giant fumbles for something in a dirty pouch until he pulls out a metallic flask and pulls the stopper. Immediately, smoke boils forth and coalesces into …. A young elf? The Hill Giant points at the two demons. “Bobo told you are a genie. Go kill them, Genie!”
Dwarf is wearing working clothes and a singed leather apron, becomes Dazed for 3 rounds.
The hellhound and centaur don’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… Map pending. (My apologies, I am on vacation and don’t have access to the Battlemap until Tuesday. Poor planning on my part)
M1 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 15 M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 0
Hill Giant – 13 hp Dazed Dwarf – 13 hp Dazed
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+13=32 ; Friday July 2nd, 2021 3:58:58 AM "3!" Nira stops. Why is she pointing her finger at a giant? Why did he call her Bobo? Hang on. Something isn't quite right here.
The purple-haired elf girl takes a good look around. This sure isn't the Wold that she remembers. "The Wold's Cradle perhaps? Hmm. Could be. Fae Skiemir? No, that doesn't seem right." She quickly goes through a list of other possibilities before settling on "I think I'm going to need a little more information."
The last thing she remembers she was in that cavern in the Scab and ordering that lich to put down the iron flask. She was giving him to the count of 3 before she... "Ah. He flasked me. I'll have to move quicker next time".
As much as she'd like to dwell on that a little longer it looks like the situation has greatly changed and not for the better. Giants, dwarfs, hellhounds, demons, humans and more. Not good. She decides to keep up the genie ruse a little while, still not quite sure who to trust but knowing that demons are generally bad.
"Uh. Yes master?"
Nira has no idea who is on what side of the fight, so waits to see what happens next. She prepares to stop one of those demons from casting spells though.
------------ Standard action: READY to counterspell M2. Cast Gtr Dispel Magic. Dispel check:32. DC=11+M2's CL.
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday July 2nd, 2021 1:27:52 PM
"Yeah, Pig-Four-Arms, you're in trouble now!" Desdichado yells at the demons. "Now quit flying off and come back here to face the righteous fury of a paladin, would ya?"
Seeing that they're focusing attention on Hmerrin, Desdichado runs over to the fighter to provide some emergency healing.
(Run to AE:14. I think Dez can just make it if he cuts across from V10 to AB10. Darn those non-Euclidean Teucri!).
---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 83 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 123/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33) Friday July 2nd, 2021 2:49:14 PM
Hmerrin finds himself in the hay barn, pitchfork in hand. The tool takes on a life of its own, chasing the young boy around the barn, and sticking him repeatedly.
-------
Dazed. Round 2 of 6
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+19=38 ; d20+19=36 ; Sunday July 4th, 2021 10:45:42 PM
[Sorry for not posting.]
Last round: Sarge easily shakes the magical effect, but you wouldn't know it to look at her. She is momentarily frozen, unable to decide on an action.
This round: Sarge shakes it off long enough to cast Prayer. Sarge and her allies get +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks, while foes get -1 on the same checks. Sarge does not try to figure out which of these creatures are enemies and which are allies; she lets Domi sort it out.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Sunday July 4th, 2021 11:05:19 PM
Toston casts his combination of mage armor and quicken shield one last time being almost out of 1st level spells and completely out of charges on his quicken rod.
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 8 min; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 3 (DM SteveK) Monday July 5th, 2021 1:51:32 AM
(Ooc: to avoid map confusion, I beg your indulgence and will not do a DM post for Monday in order to not get map confusion. Next DM post will be tomorrow and will have an updated map. )
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) 4d6=13 ; d20+16=21 ; Monday July 5th, 2021 4:48:38 AM
Finishing the casting of sunbeam Gaffer immedietely fires of a beautiful beam of sunlight that strikes M1 (13 damage)
Gaffer follows up with a second beam at the same target (CL Check: 21) but fails to overcome their spell resistance and can only stand there cursing in frustration.
----- Active Effects ----- Sunbeam - 13/14 rounds | 2/4 Beams - Reflex DC 24 to Negate permanent blind and half damage
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Monday July 5th, 2021 7:24:06 PM
[OOC: I really don't remember getting a map. Can you make sure you're sending it to my gmail account?]
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Monday July 5th, 2021 11:18:05 PM
Time slows down for Toston as he waits to see if they will go through the same song and dance of buff / debuff
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 3 (DM SteveK) 3d6=14 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+9=18 ; d8+10=13 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 2:37:14 AM
Nira is NOT where she expects, and it takes a second to orient herself. Yet she knows ‘demons are bad’, so readies to defend against their magics while learning the lay of the land…
Desdichado yells at the demon, both that they are in trouble and that they should stop and face a righteous paladin. He runs to support Hmerrin, and the Teucri bubble gives him momentary confusion. Instead of halfway to the Fighter, Desdichado finds himself standing right next to Hmerrin!
(ooc: Desi learns the numbers on the map match up. One can step from T6 to AR6 [2 to 2], and can step from M3 to AK3 [1 to 1], or even from V10 to AT10.
Hmerrin flinches and cries out, the sickly rainbow nimbus playing about his body with flashes of images: a barn, a pitchfork.
Sarge shakes off several magical effects and casts Prayer, trusting Domi will sort it out. And, besides the Tide; the Hill Giant, the Dwarf, and Nira the Elf all gain the benefit of her Prayer spell!
Toston casts his combination of mage armor and quicken shield one last time; draining magical resources quickly.
Gaffer lashes M1 with bright beams, the first one getting through its spell resistance, and the second breaking up into a sick rainbow of fractal images
………. M1 titters at Desdichado. “You don’t provide a convincing argument to stick around.” It gives a coettish wink with its dead black piggie eyes, and then flies to the middle of the room, hovering near the door with the bluish bubble that hangs in mid-air in the center of the room. (Fly 18) Then the demon calls a lightning bolt to strike Desdichado. (Call Lightning Damage 14: Reflex DC18 for half)
M2 also hovers without touching the blue nimbus around the door (Fly 15). It gives a side eye at the Hill Giant and Elf, but ignores them to focus again on Toston. ”This only ends one way Plaything. Nalfeshnee can dispel magics at will, we will never run out of magic to cancel your magic. Whereas you…” The demon casts Greater Dispel Magic again, only to have Nira counterspell! Instead of getting angry, it laughs like a donkey. ”Clever but stupid, my Toy. You will both be mine, Plaything and Toy. I can cast forever: can you?”
Bobo the Hill Giant laughs back, not seeing that it is the demons who are controlling this battle. “Har, Har, Har. Genie stop Pig-Four-Arms magic. Bobo stop Pig-Four-Arms!” And he begins pulling rocks out of his pouch and throwing them at the demon! He hits once for minor damage.
Dwarf is wearing working clothes and a singed leather apron, is Dazed for 2 rounds, moaning at images only he can see.
The hellhound and centaur don’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… Map in email
M1 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 28 M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 3
Hill Giant – 13 hp Dwarf – 13 hp Dazed
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday July 6th, 2021 4:14:07 AM "Well then. I guess I better just find some other way to kill you." Nira responds back to the demon.
Demons. Why couldn't it be some sort of skeleton or vampire or undead thing? They're so much easier to destroy. "Going to have to do this the hard way".
Nira ducks behind the giant and casts a Spectral Hand spell. "Uh.. genie needs to cast some spells, oh mighty Bobo."
------------ Move action: Move/fly behind the giant to use it as a shield. E13 I think. Standard action: Cast Spectral Hand.
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5).. Ring of Counterspells (Gtr Disp Magic)
The demon's lightening bolt hits Desdichado, doing a bit of damage.
"Hmerrin, c'mon on, snap out of it" he says as he uses his healing ability to patch the fighter up a bit, "I don't know how we got here, but I think that giant and genie are helping us!" (LoH: heal 26)
He moves closer to the demon who bolted him, (move to AN:9) knowing that his faith in Domi will make attacks against the demon overcome it's damage resistance when he's nearby.
---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 82 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR Prayer: +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks 17/18 Lay on Hands remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33) Tuesday July 6th, 2021 6:54:08 PM
Hmerrin whimpers as he endures the stings of the pitchfork.
----
Dazed. Round 3 of 6
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+16=27 ; 4d6=17 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 8:44:01 PM
Gaffer moves to N10, positioning himself beneath the demon and fires another sunbeam directly upwards. (CL Check: 27) A small orb of sunlight glows warm in his hands before rupturing out in a scorching beam (for 17 damage) and possibly blinding the creature.
"Are you really a Genie!?" Gaffer calls out to their newfound ally while attacking.
----- Active Effects ----- Sunbeam - 12/14 rounds | 1/4 Beams - Reflex DC 24 to Negate permanent blind and half damage
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+10=18 ; d20+10=17 ; 10d6=34 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 10:37:51 PM
"Whatever she is, she's on our side," Sarge calls out.
Sarge begins to feel that the time is right for an Unholy Smite, if she can get past the creatures' spell resistance. Worth a try. She casts it to target M1 and M2, and probably doesn't overcome SR with an 18 and a 17.
Just in case it does go off, it does 34 damage and blinds them for 1 round; DC 20 Will save for half damage and no blindness.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d4+2=3 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 12:07:54 AM
Toston uses a second level spell slot to cast mirror image creating 3 illusionary Tostons. Toston does the gnome shuffle with the illusion and then has the mirror images spread out as far as the spell will allow.
Toston and his mirror images says to the demon, "Okay let's try something else. Which one is the real me?"
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 79 rounds; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile Mirror Image: 3 illusionary Tostons - 8 minutes 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 4 (DM SteveK) d20+21=37 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+10=17 ; d12=8 ; d20+15=21 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+9=28 ; d8+10=12 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 6:04:12 AM
Desdichado heals Hmerrin and moves closer to the M1 demon, but can’t get to it while he is on the ground and the demon hovers in the air 25’ away. (move to AN:9)
Hmerrin is still locked in magical nightmares.
Gaffer moves some too, frying M1 and starts talking to the elf. (Move to N10)
Sarge isn’t interested in small talk. She tries a spell that can’t get through the demons’ spell resistance.
Nira ducks behind the Hill Giant and casts a spell.
Toston casts another personal defense spell and taunts the demons.
………. M1 tries to hover, but fails and drops prone… at Desdichado’s feet!
M2 successfully hovers and hee-haws again. “Toy can’t help you, Plaything.” It casts Greater Dispel Magic but is unable to overcome any of Toston’s spells!
Bobo the Hill Giant keeps chucking rocks, hitting once again.
Dwarf is wearing working clothes and a singed leather apron, is Dazed for 1 round, moaning at images only he can see.
The hellhound and centaur don’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… No Map this round
M1 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 45 M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 5
Hill Giant – 13 hp Dwarf – 13 hp Dazed
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33) Wednesday July 7th, 2021 4:36:04 PM
Despite Dez shaking him, Hmerrin remains in that demon induced nightmare.
Desdichado takes the demon's fall to the ground as an opportunity from Domi, and makes no waste of time in making the most of it.
32 vs AC; 31 damage (10 slashing+12 holy+9 axiomatic) 23 vs AC; miss 34 vs AC (21 - no crit confirmation); 26 damage (11 slashing+8 holy+7 axiomatic)
---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 81 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR Prayer: +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks 17/18 Lay on Hands remaining
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Wednesday July 7th, 2021 7:56:15 PM
Since attacking her foes seems like a bad idea, Sarge decides to help her friends instead. She moves to Hmerrin's side and casts Shield of Faith (+3 AC bonus).
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+16=31 ; 4d6=16 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 9:06:46 PM
Gaffer is taken aback by the demon suddenly at his feat but doesn't hesitate to fire off his last remaining sunbeam directly at it. (16 Damage) Noticing the creature isn't being affected much by smaller hits, he decides to try one of his few big swings next.
----- Active Effects ----- Sunbeam - 11/14 rounds | 0/4 Beams - Reflex DC 24 to Negate permanent blind and half damage
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+18Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+7=18 ; d20+18=31 ; 6d6=18 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 10:33:47 PM
Nira wants to reply to the people that seem on 'her side' that she's not a genie, however while she keeps up the ruse the giant might keep treating her as an ally. That's a good thing as she doesn't want it to clobber her, and for the mean time it's fighting the demons too.
She casts a Vampiric Touch spell through the Spectral Hand against the more wounded of the demons.
--------------- Standard: Cast Vampiric Touch via the Spectral Hand at M1. Hits Touch AC18. SR check 31. M1 takes 18pts damage and Nira gains 18pts temp HP.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+17=24 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 11:45:39 PM
Toston uses a standard action to grow his wings and flies upward 60 feet toward where Sarge is out of range of of the demon.
If he can get to her he will cast Fly next round on her.
Fly Check : 24
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 78 rounds; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile Mirror Image: 3 illusionary Tostons - 8 minutes 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 6/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 5 (DM SteveK) d20+10=26 ; d20+15=32 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 8:05:42 AM
Hmerrin remains in that demon induced nightmare despite Dez shaking him, it's almost like magic...
Desdichado takes the demon's fall to the ground as an opportunity from Domi, and slashes his greataxe into demon flesh like butter, and meets no resistance.
Sarge has a hard time to get through demon defenses and so moves across the blue bubble to help her friends instead. She has to hustle to get to his side (can cast next round).
Gaffer strikes M1 with his last remaining sunbeam, and gets ready for some big swings next.
Nira wieghs talking to the people versus keeping the Hill Giant fooled that she is a Genie. So she casts a Vampiric Touch spell through the Spectral Hand against the more wounded of the demons. Nira only gets 16 temporary hit points, because the demon is drained and suddenly stops moving, just laying prone on the ground! Further, as Nira gets more adjusted to her surroundings, her Permanent Arcane Sight kicks in... Highlight to display spoiler: { The whole blue bubble glows strongly in a Transmutational magic, except the pale lube nimbus around the door. The nimbus glows strongly as Abjuration magic. The adventurers, as expected, glow from many magic items of several different auras.}
Toston grows his wings and flies across the sphere to Sarge, Hmerrin, and Desdichado. The flight avoids the Nalfnesnee, and so skims the 'sphere' where the Dragon Disciple notes something strange. The entire time he flew, gravity was pulling him down to the outside of the sphere. So even though he now stands on the ceiling of where he used to be, he never changed his perception of what was the ground to him!
………………………………………………………………… M2 keeps hovering, maybe moving a foot further away from the glowing blue nimbus around the door. "La da da dee dum, abraca-pocus!!" she sing-songs, and casts a Greater Dispel Magic at Toston, stripping him of his Mage Armor, Shield, and Mirror Image spells!
Bobo the Hill Giant doesn't seem to have any more rocks, and he doesn't have a club. He just stands there shouting curses. He's not very imaginative.
Dwarf is wearing working clothes and a singed leather apron, shakes his head and comes out of his daze. He scampers closer to Nira and the Hill GIant. "Erm, I'm not a warrior, think you can give a bit of protection?'
The hellhound and centaur don’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… No Map this round
M1 not moving M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam - 5
Hill Giant – 13 hp Dwarf – 13 hp
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- 7d6=25 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 2:58:19 PM
Dez can't reach the demon, so he decides to heal the centaur instead, figuring another potential ally in this fight might be helpful. (OOC: I'm not sure where the centaur is in relation to Dez. If he can't reach the centaur and use LoH this turn, he'll use it the next.)
Lay on Hands - heal centaur 25
---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 80 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR Prayer: +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks 16/18 Lay on Hands remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Thursday July 8th, 2021 7:23:53 PM
Hmerrin continues not moving, his eyes weirdly focuses on a spot of air two feet in front of him.
Dazed. Round 5 of 6.
In effect Shield of Faith +3 (effectively a +1 bonus due to his ring)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday July 8th, 2021 9:40:10 PM "I've got you covered" Nira casts a Barkskin spell on the dwarf. "Dwarf in a leather apron? Likely a blacksmith of some kind. I wonder how he got here?"
She makes note of the magical auras of each of the party members. "Wow, they're strong. Glad they're fighting the demons. Hope they don't turn on me. Might need a way out of here once the demons are gone. Teleport perhaps?"
------------ Standard action: Cast Barkskin on the dwarf. The dwarf gets a +5 bonus to Natural Armor.
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5).. Ring of Counterspells (Gtr Disp Magic)... Barkskin on dwarf
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Thursday July 8th, 2021 9:45:32 PM
Sarge casts her spell, then draws her hammer.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Friday July 9th, 2021 12:16:48 AM
Toston casts fly on Sarge.
Sarge gets a fly speed of 60 feet with avg maneuverability or 40 feet (if Sarge is wearing medium or heavy armor). She also gets a +4 bonus to fly checks.
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 77 rounds; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile Mirror Image: 3 illusionary Tostons - 78 rounds 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 6/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 5/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 6 (DM SteveK) d20+10=15 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+20=21; Friday July 9th, 2021 4:11:16 AM
Dez can't reach the demon, so he decides to heal the centaur instead, moving to the creature and laying on his paladin healing hands.
Hmerrin continues not moving, his eyes weirdly focuses on a spot of air two feet in front of him.
Nira casts a Barkskin spell on the dwarf, helping to protect the likely blacksmith.
Sarge casts her spell, then draws her hammer.
Toston casts fly on Sarge.
Gaffer. (Post action for last round and this round because it has been less than 24 hours between DM posts)
………………………………………………………………… M2 keeps hovering and singing, "La da da dee da da de dum, hocus-cadabra!!" she sing-songs, and casts a Greater Dispel Magic, this time at Nira, whose Counterspelling Ring flares and protects the Elf! “Oh, Toy, you are even more fun than Plaything!”
Bobo stalks about trying to think of a way to hurt the Nalfnesnee while hurtling curses. ”Curses! Curses again!”, the Hill Giant shouts.
The leather-aproned dwarf ducks his head in thanks, while moving to try and keep Bobo inbetween himself and the demon. ”GemMaster Denli Trollbane of the DeepForge Clan thanks you. We are in a Teucri Artifact that freezes the effects of Time. I was stupid. Didn’t realize it was Teucri and tried making it into a ‘Stone of the Forge Lord’. Too late. Now we are trapped forever.”
The Centaur begins moving at Desdichado’s touch. ”Ow! What? Where? Beware of the Demons!” The pinto-marked centaur shakes her mane to clear her head, holds up a strange holy symbol (Know Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Holy Symbol of Mitra } ) immediately casts a spell at the remaining Nalfnesnee, and amazingly, it works! The monster is held, and, because it can’t move, M2 falls to the ground halfway between the Nira group and Tide group! (any hero can get to melee range of M2 with a 15’ move.)
The hellhound doesn’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… No Map this round
M1 not moving M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam – 5
Hill Giant (Bobo) – 13 hp Dwarf (Denli) – 13 hp Centaur – 25 hp
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+16=27 ; d20+16=18 ; 14d6=37 ; d20+16=19 ; Friday July 9th, 2021 5:26:52 AM
[Thank you and sorry!]
[Round 1] His Sunbeam fading Gaffer takes the last spark of light and rapidly grows it into a flame in his hand before sending out two huge waves of fire, one into the space of each of the demons. Gaffer casts Fire Storm (CL Check: 27 and 18; 37 Fire Damage)
[Round 2] He follows up one fire spell with another, casting Flame Strike to conjure a column of flames from beneath M2. (CL Check: 19) But fails to overcome their resistance.
----- Active Effects ----- Fire Storm - DC 24 Reflex Save for Half - if reflex is failed they also catch on fire for 4d6 damage each round until extinguished.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+24=30 ; d12+9=16 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=9 ; d20+12=16 ; Friday July 9th, 2021 1:27:59 PM
Desdichado thanks the centaur for her swift assistance, and notices her strange holy symbol (Know. religion 16). He quickly moves to the demon and hits it with his greataxe.
30 vs AC; 30 damage (9 slashing+5 holy+ 9 axiomatic)
He pauses briefly at the dwarf's words. "Did you say forever?"
(OOC: Dez may recognize the holy symbol ---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 79 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR Prayer: +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks 16/18 Lay on Hands remaining
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday July 9th, 2021 1:30:08 PM
(OOC: Accidentally hit submit. Dez may recognize the holy symbol, but I don't. :) I'm not familiar with Mitra and don't see any information in the Woldapedia. )
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+12=15 ; d20+16=22 ; d8=1 ; Friday July 9th, 2021 7:09:53 PM
Sarge also recognizes the holy symbol. [OOC: I think Mitra is a Taur god, but I could be wrong.]
Not one to let an opportunity go to waste, she walks over and thwacks M2. [Hit AC 22 for 7 damage. Magic silver warhammer.]
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Friday July 9th, 2021 10:38:21 PM
Nira easily recognises the holy symbol of Mitra and is glad it has some effect on the demon.
"Quick, Bobo! While the demon is held fast you should concentrate to hit it as hard as you can!" Nira is trying to suggest the giant deliver a coup-de-grace.
For her part, Nira reloads her ring of counterspells with another Gtr Dispel Magic
-------------- Knowl Religion check vs DC15: 21=Autopass Standard action: Cast Gtr Dispel Magic into Ring of Counterspells
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 6 (DM SteveK) Saturday July 10th, 2021 7:30:58 AM
(Ooc: My bad spelling. Desdichado and Sarge both recognize the symbol of the dead goddess Mittiri.
Mittiri was responsible for the preservation of all natural resources in the Wold, until the Year of Ascension. Then, Marteus killed her and most of the other gods and ascended to godhood as the head of the Gods of Testing. That pantheon is no more, but… that is a tale for another time.
Suffice to say if the Centaur is a cleric of Mittiri, and Mittiri has not been a goddess for more than 100 years…)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Saturday July 10th, 2021 6:58:17 PM
Did Hmerrin just blink? Pretty sure he blinked.
--- Dazed. Round 6 of 6.
In effect Shield of Faith +3 (effectively a +1 bonus due to his ring)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+13=17 ; Sunday July 11th, 2021 10:15:24 PM
Toston draws his Elvish Curveblade and power attacks the demon.
17 vs AC; miss
Mage Armor - 8 hours; +4 AC Shield - 76 rounds; +4 shield to AC; immunity to magic missile Mirror Image: 3 illusionary Tostons - 77 rounds Fly (on Sarge) 79 rounds - 60 fly speed (avg) or 40 if wearing medium or heavy armor; +8 bonus to fly checks 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 6/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 5/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble Combat. Rd 7 (DM SteveK) d20+21=28 ; d20+15=17 ; d20+10=25 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 4:23:52 AM
Gaffer flames the demon, who is held and can’t move, but it looks like it is partially resistant to fire!
Desdichado, thanking the centaur, quickly moves to the demon and hits it with his greataxe. Wait… forever?
Sarge takes the opportunity to strike the demon, but even with it unmoving, can’t get past its magically tough hide.
Nira restores her Ring of Counterspells and urges Bobo to beat on the demon!
Hmerrin emerges from his magically-induced waking nightmare.
Toston, his Mage Armor, Shield, and Mirror Image magic dispelled (ooc: See Thursday DM post), draws his Elvish Curveblade and attacks the demon, faring as Sarge.
Desdichado, Sarge, and Nira recognize the centaur’s holy symbol is of the dead goddess Mittiri. They also recall that before the Year of Ascension, Mittiri was responsible for the preservation of all natural resources in the Wold. Then, Marteus killed her and most of the other gods in his ascent to godhood. Although Marteus was stymied and some gods were restored, Mittiri was not one of them. Suffice to say if the Centaur is a cleric of Mittiri, and Mittiri has not been a goddess for more than 100 years…
………………………………………………………………… M2 breaks free of the centaur’s Hold Monster spell and tries to defensively cast a spell, but it fizzles!! It is still prone at the feet of Desdichado, Toston, Sarge, and Bobo. (30 feet from Hmerrin on one side and Gaffer and Nira on the other.). Again, a sickening rainbow of colors begins to play around the demon!
Bobo charges and swings at the Nalfnesnee, missing.
GemMaster Denli the Dwarf keeps fully defensive and shrugs in response to Desdichado’s exclamation. ”Before killing me, the demons told me they were servants of Gargul. It’s been a really long time since Gargul was an evil god. And since I wasn’t killed, it looks like this place is separate from the Wold and the gods.”
The Centaur nods at Denli’s explanation. ”I myself surmised the same hypothesis as the dwarf, ye noble heroes. We be separated from the normal turns of time in an artifact of Teucri make. I have few spells left, but will assist in protecting as best I may.” The pinto-coloured centaur Readies a spell and watches the demon closely.
The hellhound doesn’t move.
…………………………………………………………………… No Map
M1 not moving M2 AC 29 DR10 SR25 Dam – 62
Hill Giant (Bobo) – 13 hp Dwarf (Denli) – 13 hp Centaur – 25 hp
Dazed: The creature is unable to act normally. A dazed creature can take no actions, but has no penalty to AC.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+24=34 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=23 ; d20+14=31 ; d12+9=16 ; d12+9=10 ; d12+9=19 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=7 ; d3=1 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=11 ; 2d6=8 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 4:14:17 PM
"Yeah, not so sure Gargul would want their help much anymore," says Desdichado, "but honestly I don't want to ask him face to face. Anyway, we should all have a loooong talk about where and when we are after we mop up these things." With that, he makes an attack on the demon.
"Also, is the hellhound with any of you?" he asks the newly revived companions.
34 vs AC; 30 damage (16 slashing+ 5 holy + 9 axiomatic) 39 vs AC (no crit); 22 damage (10 slashing +7 holy + 5 axiomatic) 31 vs AC; 38 damage (19 slashing + 11 holy + 8 axiomatic)
[OOC: Accidentally hit the d3 roller.]
---------- Active effects Divine bond (+4, 78 rounds): +2 axiomatic; +2 holy Aura of Faith: weapon considered good aligned for DR; attack against enemy within 10 feet treated as good-aligned for DR Prayer: +1 on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks 16/18 Lay on Hands remaining
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+16=29 ; 14d6=53 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 6:01:05 PM
A lot of the conversation is going over Gaffers head, he can't do much about being trapped for eternity, nor about being seperate from the Wold, and definitely not while enemies are abound.
He eyes M1 suspiciously, not convinced that threat is dealt with, but attempts another Flame Strike targeted on M2 and smiles with some satisfaction as a great plume of flame bursts from beneath the demons feet.
----- Flame Strike: CL Check 29; Reflex Save DC 21 for Half; 53 Damage Half Fire/Half Divine
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+16=22 ; d20+11=18 ; d20+6=9 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 6:19:21 PM
Sarge tries again with her warhammer, but remains unsuccessful.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) d20+24=41 ; d8+21=22 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 7:18:01 PM
Hmerrin blinks again. Once more. Mind racing, he tries to take in the scene. Nope. Maybe just the salient facts. His team is standing around creepy spell thingy and beating on it with their weapons.
"Works for me."
The fighter moves in, and slams down his axe.
--- Move 30' and attack, flanking with someone, I'm sure. Power attack Hit ac 41 for 22 hp damage
In effect Shield of Faith +3 (effectively a +1 bonus due to his ring)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d4+1=5 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=5 ; d4+1=4 ; d20+18=36 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 8:49:33 PM
Nira waits to see if the rest of these people kill off the demon. They certainly are a formidable group. It wouldn't be fun to have to fight them. Other than the mysterious door she hasn't seen a way out of here yet. "Might have to try a teleport later" she decides.
For now though she prepares to cast a Magic Missile spell in case the combined assault of these people don't take the demon down.
------------------- Standard action: DELAY until the rest of the party have acted and then cast a Magic Missile at the demon (if it is still alive). SR check:36. 19pts force damage.
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5).. Ring of Counterspells (Gtr Disp Magic)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+13=33 ; d20+13=15 ; d8+15=19 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 12:05:46 AM
Toston makes another power attack at the demon with the curveblade.
33 vs AC; theat of critical ; 15 to confirm = no crit; 19 damage
Active Effects: Fly (on Sarge) 77 rounds - 60 fly speed (avg) or 40 if wearing medium or heavy armor; +8 bonus to fly checks 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 6/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 5/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble. End Combat (DM SteveK) Tuesday July 13th, 2021 2:51:02 AM
It takes everyone, including Nira’s Magic Missles and a final smash by Bobo before the demon is unmoving. So strange! One instant it is battling full frenzy, and the next it looks like a very realistic statue with many cuts, burns, and bruises!
The battle high fades and the Tide and their allies sort of start looking around. Three humans (Desdichado, Hmerrin, and Gaffer); a dwarf (Sarge); a dragonish gnome (Toston) look about at a Hill Giant (Bobo), a Dwarf (Denli), a Centaur (unnamed), and an Elf (Nira). And then there are three unmoving ‘statues’: two Nalfnesnee (one prone wearing a belt of gems and one standing wearing a sash of gems), and a Hellhound.
The Centaur introduces herself as Sorrel. Sorrel and Bobo agree the Hellhound was working with the demons. Denli only remembers it being frozen. Sorrel, Denli, and Bobo have no idea how long they have been in this blue bubble place, but they all agree on the order they came. For Sorrel, there were no ‘statues’ in the Blue Bubble. For Bobo, he noticed the Centaur ‘statue’ and made a Hellhound ‘statue’. Denli noticed the Centaur, Hellhound, and Giant were all statues when he arrived.
It takes a while, but something dawns on Bobo. The Hill Giant looks at Nira. “You are not a genie? They lied! They tricked Bobo! That makes Bobo mad!” Each sentence draws the homely face more into a caricature of stormy wrath until the dim but strong Bobo pulls the Iron Flask out of his pouch. Gripping it between his ham-hands, he … snaps the magic item in two! “There”, he says with simple happiness, friendly once more, “Can’t trick Bobo again!” .........
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative. (It may take some skills checks or conversation to learn more things about how the Tide got here and the nature of where 'here' is.)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+23=31 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 4:30:25 AM "Yeah, uh, sorry Bobo. Look, it wasn't my fault though. I think it would be very fair for you to find the person who gave you the bottle - who tricked you - and give them a good whack." Nira feels a little uncomfortable at encouraging a giant to fight someone, but right now as long as he doesn't fight her she's ok with it. "Do you know how to get out of here? Perhaps we could work together?"
With the fight over she now has a chance to think about things properly. "Ok, so I got trapped in that flask. The giant - Bobo - somehow got hold of it. He somehow got here and got stuck. Hmm. He got stuck. I wonder if that means I'm stuck? Where is 'here' anyway? Hmmm". Nira looks about to try and get a few more clues.
She gets a little distracted by it all and comes to the realisation that the fight might not actually be over. There are a lot of unfamiliar people here.
"So, uh, how did you all end up here? Have you been here long? Were you statues too?" She has a dozen or so more questions but is trying to pace herself. She tries to look for any Holy Symbols carried by the party to work out whether they are good or bad.
Nira does know that hellhounds are almost always bad. She considers asking her new giant friend to try and rip the head off the hellhound while it can't move. Just to be safe.
----------- Knowl All: 31 (Take10) to work out where she is and what the bubble might be Sense Motive: 31 on Bobo to try and get a feel if he's going to be hostile
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+24=37 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 2:42:11 PM
Lowering his hands as the spell fades Gaffer looks around at the surroundings once more, then quickly looks up to see if his Stone of the Forge Lord is still present, floating around his head. He makes his way over to Nira and introduces himself.
"Hi there, I'm Gaffer. I was attempting a Transport Via Plants spell for my companions and myself when this" He gestures to the stone, "Seemed to have some form of reaction and brought us all here. It was a gift from the Forge Lord of Clan Deepforge, and I do not think intended to bring us here. As for being statues... not that I was aware of."
Looking past the elf, he will make a point to introduce himself to Bobo, Sorrel and Denli as well, "Sorry to meet under such circumstances but well met all the same."
Finally turning to the floating door and doing his best to peer through the space if possible (Perception: 37)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday July 13th, 2021 5:14:34 PM
Desdichado stows his greataxe as the demon is felled. He stands looking over the "statues" in his plate mail with a holy symbol of Domi prominently displayed around his neck, which hopefully Nira can see (although whether that would comfort her or not is unknown).
"From our perspective, we just arrived a minute or so ago," he responds to Nira. "It sounds like you and Bobo have been here much longer than us."
Turning to Denli, he says, "As Gaffer says, it sounds like we arrived in a similar manner to you. We were given these Stones of the Forge Lord by Forge Lord Ulthern for aid we provided. I guess Gaffer's - or all of them - came from Teucri artifacts or somehow interacted with yours?"
"Sorrel, Bobo - do you remember anything about the moments before you arrived here? Maybe there's something similar about how we all ended up here that could help us figure out how to get out."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Tuesday July 13th, 2021 7:42:58 PM
Hmerrin stows his axes, and relieves both demons of all those nice gems.
While doing so, he nods toward the door floating in the middle of the sphere.
"Any reason we can't go through that?" he asks.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Wednesday July 14th, 2021 12:07:41 AM
"That," Sarge intones, sheathing her hammer, "is what comes of trusting plants."
One by one, she thrusts out her hand to Nira, Bobo, Sorrel, and Denli. "Fyrda Deepforge," she says. "Everybody calls me Sarge."
Sarge is a dwarf in full plate, with a prominent holy symbol of Domi. There is quite a bit of gray in her braids.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+8=18 ; d20+24=38 ; d20+20=24 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 2:09:12 AM
Toston sheathes the curve blade.
He has orange-ish gold scaley skin, close cropped green hair a monks robe and various weapons strapped across himself including a curveblade, a spiked chain, a nunchaku, a kama a sanghaim and a long bow.
A stone reminescent of an ioun stone orbits his head.
He looks around and says, "What is this place?"
Know[arcana]:24 Know[planes]18 Perception:38
Active Effects: Fly (on Sarge) 76 rounds - 60 fly speed (avg) or 40 if wearing medium or heavy armor; +8 bonus to fly checks 1/7 - 1st level spells remaining 6/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 5/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Blue Bubble. What is this place? (DM SteveK) Wednesday July 14th, 2021 2:47:07 AM
Nira is quick-witted and a font of knowledge: the elf can make many guesses about where she is and the rules of nature about the place, but she needs a point of reference to start. She talks with Bobo who; though dim as cloudy water, doesn’t think things through, and is a simple kind of selfish; seems to be more confused at what to do than genuinely mean-spirited. She paces herself when speaking with the five heroes, obviously a team, obviously powerful.
Gaffer does a quick check, yes his Stone of the Forge Lord is still there, looking as innocuous as ever. The druid introduces himself. He looks at the door, confirms it is a round door of some unknown material, and that it has a round indention where a latch would be. The thin blue nimbus that surrounds the door is still visible.
(Nira’s and anyone else’s Geography Knowledge of the lands about the Scar DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { immediately recalls that teleporting in the Scar is a BAD idea. The Transport via Plants spell must have catastrophically gone wrong and plopped the heroes here … somehow })
Desdichado stows his greataxe and joins the conversation. The paladin names the Stones of the Forge Lord and Forge Lord Ulthern to Denli, who becomes interested. ”I don’t recall a Forge Lord named Ulthern, though in my clan of Deepforge, there are several with that name. Yes, I am Forgemaster to Deepforge, and am skilled in making the Stones.” He asks to see the Stones and is able to point out a cunningly hidden and stylized ‘DT’ on three of the Stones. ”I made these. These other two look to be the work of one of my apprentices.” He points at Gaffer’s Stone. ”I had that Stone laying on my workbench to give it special properties like a Handy Haversack when the Stone flickered and pulsed. I didn’t know it was Teruci-make or I would have never experimented on it!”
Sorrel and Bobo have similar stories. Sorrel recounts how soon after the Cataclysm, she went into these mountains and cast a Vision spell to find the lost connection with Mittiri. A nearby Stone pulsed blue and she found herself here. BoBo was guarding a wizard in some mountains. Wizard cast spell, nearby Stone glowed blue, now in Blue ball.
Hmerrin stows his axes, and relieves both demons of all those nice gems. Besides the belt and sash of gemstones (amethyst, jet, chaorite, and onyx), he finds each demon was wearing an amulet of a closed fist, all but hidden around their pudgy necks! (Nira and her permanent Arcane Sight can immediately see strong transmutation magic on the amulets). Direct as always, Hmerrin suggests they go through the door floating in the middle of the sphere.
Sarge intones that trusting plants is the reason they arrived. She brusquely introduces herself, and Denli bows. "I am sorry to meet you here, Sarge of the nobility of Deepforge, but I have served the clan all my life, and I will follow your lead.”
Toston confirms the Teucri and magical implications as well as Sorrel and Nira. Further, Toston and Gaffer both perceive all the other inhabitants of the Bubble were only near the Stone when transported here. The Tide (ie Gaffer). WAS touching the Stone and in fact still has it.
……………….
Bobo, being a creature of very little brain, quickly grows bored of talk. Thankfully, his boredom translates into hunger and he pulls out a haunch of fresh, raw mutton and begins gnawing. Some might notice that despite how long they are assuming Bobo has been here, the meat is fresh as if only a couple of hours old.
Denli has nothing to add.
Sorrel, however, reveals she had made quite a study on the missing Teucri and is certain they are in a Teucri-made structure. ”The Teucri was a race not from the Wold and they were able to manipulate magic in ways that not even the Elves of Fae Skeimir can approach. We are in a… well… let us call it a Time Bubble. From knowing about other Teucri places and the effects of the battles herein, I conclude the following effects…” (every appropriate Knowledge check DC25 verifies that Sorrel’s deductions make sense.)
………
Tecuri Time Bubble Effects:
1. There are no square/flat surfaces in Teucri structures. Curves, sprials, and arcs can move in any direction.
2. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’.
3. Time doesn’t move: living begins don’t need to eat or breathe, or sleep (ooc: can’t recover spell slots). Natural healing by time doesn’t work, and no one can die.
4. Living beings can’t die. Instead, when at negative hit points, living beings are death/paralyzed. Healing affects death/paralyzed beings as if they were staggered (ooc: at zero hit points).
5. Unliving beings (undead, constructs, etc) would die as normal.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday July 14th, 2021 4:11:45 AM
Nira looks to Gaffer. "Interesting. I remember reading once that noted magical teleportation within the Scar is a recipe for disaster. I knew teleportation spells were a bit risky. It makes sense that the plant transport one also caused issues. They are pretty closely related after all." She nods at the development and then realises she hasn't introduced herself. "Gaffer is it? A pleasure to meet you. Nira. I'm Nira."
She looks to Sarge and immediately spots the holy symbol of Domi. "Ah. A follower of Domi. That's good." Nira shakes Sarge's hand. Her grip is very loose compared to that of Sarge's, no matter how she might try and squeeze.
"Um, those amulets look magical." she warns Hmerrin. "Looks like they have some sort of transmutation magic on them. Want me to try and identify them for you?" Nira takes a moment to study the aura of the amulets but doesn't reach to touch them. It would be rude, after all, to try and grab something from someone she has just met.
Nira points out the other auras she can see. "This whole bubble has a Transmutational magic aura to it. All except that nimbus around the door. That one has some real strong Abjuration magic to it. I'd take care before trying to open it. No telling what it might do. Though I suppose in the absence of any other exit someone might need to try it."
She listens to the discussions to try and get a better idea of what is going on. Sorrel seems to know a bit. "Teucri you say? Yes. That would make sense. Their artifacts tend to obey their own rules. Very powerful things too. It would explain a lot if this place was a result of their work"
-------- Spellcraft check to ID the amulets if Hmerrin agrees: 34 (Take10)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday July 14th, 2021 2:57:35 PM
Desdichado's education in the natural sciences didn't go much beyond simple machines. So unless the group is planning on building a lever and pulley, a catapult, or - more exciting yet - a trebuchet to get everyone up to the door, he doesn't have any suggestions along that route.
As Hmerrin and Nira look at the amulets, he offers to Detect Evil on them as well.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Wednesday July 14th, 2021 5:26:55 PM
"Well, I'm only a Deepforge by marriage," Sarge tells Denli.
She turns her attention to the bubble. "Don't suppose a plain old Dispel Magic would do anything," she muses. "'Specially since those demons were throwing around Dispels like they were going out of style. I've got a Spell Immunity prepared, but I doubt it'd do anything against Teucri magic."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) d20+11=21 ; d20+13=22 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 6:15:56 PM
Hmerrin pushes his helm back to reveal a human face with sparkling eyes and long brown hair. He stows his two axes (battle axe and hand axe) and gives Nira a wave.
"Hey. I'm Hmerrin. "We're called The Tide. From Dirt City until we decided to do a dwarf a favor." He gives Sarge a mock look of accusation.
"As for magic, I've no idea." He hands over the amulets, and looks up at the floaty door with the blue haze. "How close does 'real strong Abjuration magic' come to 'it'll explode'"?
Just to check, Hmerrin tosses a gem at the door. Hey, what's the worst that could happen?
The young man's mind gets around to working over everyone's circumstances. "So, out of everybody that's been trapped in here, we're the only ones that brought this Turkey Stone thing with us, right? Can we just Open Sesame the door with Gaffer's rock?"
[Knowledge - Dungeoneering: 21 - I don't know. Maybe its dungeony. Perception roll 22 to notice any odd - ok more odd - about the blue nimbus and the floating door.]
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday July 14th, 2021 9:06:01 PM
Gaffer is open to suggestions, including handing over the stone for someone to inspect or to try and use. As Nira mentions trouble with teleporting in the Scar it comes back to him that they were worned of exactly that, but all too late now.
"I may have been a bit to excited to use my magic and forgot the warnings we received, a lesson I'll consider learning."
Looking between the few frozen creatures and the ominous door, he suggests, "Why don't we try pushing the hell hound through the door as a test?" Before ducking away as Hmerrin performs his own test with the gem.
Blue Bubble. The Door (DM SteveK) Thursday July 15th, 2021 2:40:36 AM
Nira provides helpful information and introductions. She offers to Identify the magical amulets, and Hmerrin hands them over. It requires at least 18 seconds (i.e. 3 rounds) per item for the elf to do a thorough examination with her Spellcraft skill, and she concludes each one is an Amulet of Mighty Fists +3 (@36,000gp each = 72,000gp).
Desdichado offers to Detect Evil on the amulets as well.
Sarge also turns her attention to the bubble. She rules out Dispel Magic, and doubts even her Spell Immunity could do anything against Teucri magic. (Sorrel, Toston, Nira and anyone’s Know Arcane DC25 can say that Teucri magic should act like other magic. Sorrel, Nira and anyone’s Know History DC25 can say that that is true until it isn’t: Teucri magic is a very strange thing!)
Hmerrin introduces himself, hands over the amulets, and looks up at the floaty door with the blue haze. He chucks a gem. It passes harmlessly through the nimbus and bounces off the door. (Nira and Toston, however, both have phenomenal skills in Arcane Knowledge, and make their own conclusions to Identify a spell effect that is in place [DC 29]. The interaction of Hmerrin’s gem-toss at the blue nimbus reveals that it is a single powerful spell that combines the effects of Protection v Evil and Word of Recall. It is no wonder the demons kept away from the nimbus!)
Gaffer remembers the Tide had been warned about teleportation magic before, and considers learning that history is connected to the present. He suggests tossing the hellhound through the nimbus to the door. (Note: nothing will be able to go through the doorway until the door is opened … somehow)
……………….
Bobo watches the tossing of a gem with interest. He goes about collecting his ‘throw rocks’ and whizzes one at the door like Hmerrin. It also passes through the nimbus and bounces off the door. ”This fun!” he declares.
Denli is not deterred by Sarge’s dismissal of her status. ”Marriage and adoption are the blood we choose, and the bond is just as strong. I will assist you, my Lady, however I may. And my Clanbrothers too, as you have been gifted a Stone from the ForgeLord.”
Sorrel isn’t satisfied about Hmerrin’s casual conclusion that ‘everyone has been here a long time’. ”How long? What are the implications? These can be important to learning this prisons properties and assist our endeavor to escape! If thee and I each retell the most significant Wold event in our lifetime, we may be able to ascertain more of our prison.” Sorrel starts and tells how the Cataclysm destroyed most of the continent, and that refugees flocked to a small peripheral area called the Elennian Penninsula. (Know History DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Sorrel is talking about the Third Cataclysm, thousands of years before the founding of Plateau City, Aisildur… or Dirt City!}
………….. No one has appraised the Gems.
The heroes know that Sorrel, Bobo, and Denli was not touching the Teucri Stone when they were transported, and it did not transport with S, B, or D.
The heroes know that Gaffer WAS touching the Teucri Stone when transported, and that the Stone DID transport with the Tide.
The heroes are in a blue glowing bubble of Transmutation magic (similar to Time Stop spell), can see a door with a round indentation for a handle floating in mid-air, and the door is surrounded by a blue nimbus of strong Abjuration magic (Protection v Evil and Word of Recall)
……… Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: living beings don’t need to eat or breathe, or sleep. 3. Time effects don’t work: No natural healing by time, no spell recovery. (spell durations expire) 4. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday July 15th, 2021 3:09:33 AM
Toston says, "Should we try to turn that handle? I mean we're all good here right? So presumably a handle with protection from evil and word of recall on it would take us somewhere?"
"Let's assume we can all get out together by holding the stone. Would we all go back to our original times, or would we all go to the same time together?"
Desdichado listens to Sorrel's words. He's certainly heard of Cataclysms, but he can't keep straight the details of which one she's referring to.
He tries to think about what recent important events have happened. "Hmm...I suppose the Gods of Testing breaking up and becoming independent would be pretty significant. Err...Wardd is one of the Gods of the Wold again. Uh...Caeroldra's dead."
At that, he looks a bit stricken and adds, "I should also say that where - when - we come from, Mittiri isn't worshiped widely."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Thursday July 15th, 2021 6:15:50 PM
Hmerrin glances over at Dez. "That whole birth of Sargrass gods and Red Grass of Death thing might count."
He looks at Sorrel with sympathy. "Look, we might all be in the same boat by the time we get out of here, but you've been in here a really long time. We're from the Elennian Penninsula, and there are cities there I thought always existed until just now."
Hmerrin isn't really ready to think about how this might be happening to him too, so he focuses on the task at hand.
"Let's try this door. Gaffer, any way you can nicely pick me up and drop me on that door?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+23=28 ; Thursday July 15th, 2021 8:01:41 PM "The Tide? Why are you called that?" Nira asks Hmerrin.
She then lets the others know a little more about the door. "It's got some kind of Protection from Evil spell on it as well as a Word of Recall. Sounds to me that if someone passes through it they will be teleported somewhere. I've no idea where though."
Nira picks up on Sorrel's choice of words "Wait. Do you mean this is a 'prison', like an actual prison that criminals might be sent to? Or are you just saying prison as in we're all trapped as if it were a prison?" It's a small but important distinction for Nira. There's no telling if the others here are evil doers and have been intentionally locked up. She doesn't want to take part in a prison break today. Well, except to save herself. These 'Tide' people seem good too. She'd work with them to get out of here.
--------------- Sense Motive on Sorrel: 28
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Thursday July 15th, 2021 9:48:44 PM
"Hey, is that Word of Recall permanent? Can you tell? 'Cause if only the first person through gets teleported somewhere....that could be a problem."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday July 15th, 2021 11:34:28 PM
Toston says, "We are called the Tide because once upon a time we wanted to come in like a rising Tide and clean dirt city of the filth. Though it seems like in the course of our adventures we've entered into an agreement to not upset the status quo though we have technically been granted a type of neutral zone from the houses inside of Dirt City with some of our more recent exploits so I guess we've cleaned a section of Dirt City sort of."
He then goes on, "Are you saying that stone that gaffer used is some sort of Teucri jailing device and we are now in a Teucri prison? Do you think the dwarves knew? Were we sabotaged?"
Blue Bubble. The Door (DM SteveK) Friday July 16th, 2021 2:41:42 AM
Toston and Nira talk, providing more information and understanding about the Elf and the Tide.
The Tide with Nira, Sorrel, and Denli, continue to work out the current situation. Sarge, the old campaigner, knows that most military units also like to know ‘what’s going on’ even before they get to ‘what do we have to do’, and then ‘how do we do it’.
‘what’s going on’. The Tide plus allies pretty much have this set, and together can tick off the situation on their fingers.
One. They have all been accidentally transported to a Teucri location. Sorrel clarifies her choice of words in that they are trapped, not that this is a prison. ”In fact, it doesn’t make sense that this is the only space, for why would the Teucri just make a Bubble? I hypothesize that this space is more of… yes, a waiting room or foyer to whatever the Teucri were setting this up for.’ Denli backs up that it must have been an accident. HE is the dwarf that made the Stone of the ForgeLord that Gaffer has, and he didn’t know the properties, and he is trapped too! ”I don’t know what story they are saying, but since the Stone was complete and I was working alone…” Desdichado can Detect Evil and see that the demons, the hellhound, and Bobo all register as evil.
Two. Time doesn’t seem to be a factor in the space. And HOW long the others have been here rocks them to their core. Denli remembers the Awakening of Eberyon the Fae King, but not the Sarr or red grass of death. He’s been here nearly 20 years! Nira (Bobo doesn’t care) recalls the Year of Ascension, but not the arrival of Eberyon. The hill giant and elf have been here nearly 100 years! Sorrel is stunned. Cities on the Elennian Penninsula? No Mittiri??? She doesn’t even recognize a group called the ‘gods of Testing’ or even the name ‘Wardd’!! No one can get an accurate assessment, but the pinto centaur has been in the Bubble for thousands of years, at least!!! She stops talking and isn’t much more help.
‘what do we have to do’. Again, pretty obvious. Even Bobo knows what we have to do is get out of the Teucri Time Bubble!
‘how do we do it’. And here is some debate. That they go through the Door is obvious, as is that the Key to the door is the Stone in Gaffer’s possession. But how?
Toston and Nira’s Arcane expertise is enough to see the transparent nimbus around the Door is a single spell, connected and permanent. They figure out that the spell is to stop evil creatures from approaching the door, sending them elsewhere. It will be safe for creatures of good alignment. The nimbus is NOT a way for any good creature to go somewhere else.
Which leaves Gaffer’s Stone, the Door, and the indention in the Door that is the shape of Gaffer’s Stone.
………
Amulet of Mighty Fists +3 (@36,000gp each = 72,000gp). Sash and Belt of purple and black gemstones (unknown)
……… Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Friday July 16th, 2021 4:37:06 AM "Wait, 100 years have passed?" That's ... interesting. She doesn't feel old. Her thoughts turn to her family. Her mother and father. As soon as she gets out of here she needs to make sure they're ok.
It does give her more motivation to get out of this bubble though.
"From what I can tell the spell on the door is meant to keep evil creatures from going through it. It should be safe for a good person to open the door and pass through."
Nira realises her choice of words but keeps it to herself. "'Should be safe'. I wonder how many people have said that about Teucri devices."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Friday July 16th, 2021 4:51:05 PM
"Well, ordinarily I'd say 'we can't stand around here forever,' but we literally can. But I don't want to. Let's try the door."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday July 16th, 2021 6:18:20 PM
"Oh, if there's a space that fits Gaffer's stone, we might as well try it."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Saturday July 17th, 2021 10:18:37 AM
Hmerrin's lips tighten a bit when he hears Bobo is evil. Put that together with the protection spell on that door, and there could be a problem very shortly. And Wardd knows what Sorrell might do next. He keeps an eye on the giant, just in case Bobo is smarter than he looks.
In the meantime, he waits for Gaffer to fly up there and open the door.
If Gaffer doesn't want to, Hmerrin will switch stone with the druid, drink a potion of fly, and go up there and do it himself. After all, throwing himself through doors into the unknown is kind of his specialty.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday July 18th, 2021 6:01:45 PM
At the mention of the Amulets of Mighty Fists, Gaffers eyes light up, "This may not be the time, but one of those amulets could be a great boon for my transformations."
He is happy to go up and try placing the stone but a little unsure of the best way of doing so. If possible he will wildshape into a Large Air Elemental without merging with the stone, and fly up to place it in the slot in the door, waiting to see if anything happens before pushing the door if not.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Monday July 19th, 2021 12:05:47 AM
Toston says, "I have an amulet of natural armor. I don't think I want to trade so I'd be okay letting Gaffer have the amulet"
He adds, "I too am curious about the Gaffer's stone shape indent on the door."
Blue Bubble. The Door (DM SteveK) Monday July 19th, 2021 2:09:33 AM
Nira, befitting a hero, is more worried about her parents’ reaction to her missing for 100 years than what could be the effects on herself. Could and Should are also in her mind on the safety of the Door..
Sarge notes that while she can, she doesn’t want to wait around forever. “ Let's try the door."
Desdichado agrees. If there's a space that fits Gaffer's stone, they might as well try it.
Hmerrin keeps eye on Sorrell and Bobo while he waits for Gaffer to fly up there and open the door.
Gaffer claims one of the Amulets of Mighty Fists, then plans his opening of the door.
Toston’s OK for letting Gaffer have one of the amulets, the dragon-gnome would rather have his defenses. He too is curious about the Gaffer's stone shape indent on the door. ………
Gaffer is an experienced shapeshifter, he knows everything on his person melds into whatever he becomes. So, it is no big deal to hand his Stone to Hmerrin before turning into a humanoid-looking Air Elemental. Retrieving his Stone from the young Fighter, Gaffer flies up.
He passes through the nimbus with no effect, and then he places the Stone in the indention. Without noise or other effect, the Door fades until there appears to be a hallway on the other side. After six seconds (I.e. one round) the Door fades back in. When Gaffer uses the Stone again, the Door fades out once more.
Studying the hallway, the heroes can see it is a white tube, translucent and gently glowing. It also subtly curves so no one can see more than 40 feet of the hallway before the curve blocks the view.
Bobo stops throwing rocks. ”Good! Bobo was getting tired of playing Catch with a door.” He packs up, obviously getting ready to leave.
Sorrel is lost in her own thoughts.
Denli sticks close by Sarge. ………
Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Monday July 19th, 2021 1:52:11 PM
"I suppose we could go through a few at a time?" Sarge hazards. "'Course, that's assuming we are seeing the same hallway each time, and not some unknown number of identical hallways. Cheerful thought. Who's first?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday July 19th, 2021 7:15:00 PM
"I'm happy to go first, maybe go in pairs?" Gaffer will give someone else a chance to volunteer to join him, before stepping/flying through the door, making sure to leave the stone behind for those who follow. He tries to look as confident as possible doing so, even as his mind wonders through all the ways questionable teleportation magic could go wrong.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday July 19th, 2021 7:52:00 PM
Nira cranes her neck to try and see as much of the tunnel as she can. She tries to gauge how 'big' the tunnel is, specifically to see whether her giant friend will be able to fit within it.
Gaffer's idea is a good one and she's happy to follow the lead of this obviously experienced adventuring group.
Desdichado focuses his attention on Sorrel, trying to make sure she's ready to come along.
"Sorrel, the door is opening - are you ready to come with us? I know this must be very difficult, but who know what lies beyond that door - maybe each of us will return to our own times. Or perhaps if we end up in "our" time, sages and scholars might have a way to return you to your own."
"I've heard that there are places where Mittiri is still revered, and followers wait for her return. Even in one of our largest cities the Druid's Quarter has a temple dedicated to her. Perhaps you can find help or solace there."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) d20+1=7 ; Monday July 19th, 2021 9:13:42 PM
"Hold on Kids," Hmerrin responds to, well, just about everyone. "In case you haven't noticed, we've several logistical issues.
One - we all gotta be able to fly to get to that door. So, who here can't? Gaffer, is there a way to stand on that door and haul people up with a rope?
And Two - Somebody said there's a Protection from Evil spell on that blue cloud, and also said..." Hmerrin drops his voice a notch and continues "the uh, ijay ant-ay is ee-ay il-vay." Bluff to convey secret message - 7. Highlight to display spoiler: {The giant is evil.} "So, uh, we got a way to shrinky-shrinky and stow in a bag of holding or something?"
Hmerrin fishes out a gold coin. "Hey Bobo, you're pretty good with them rocks. I'll give you a gold piece if you can hit that door with that dog statue over there."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Monday July 19th, 2021 11:00:38 PM
Toston says, "I can cast Fly 5 more times today. If anyone can't fly let me know and you can fly well for 8 minutes. I can grow my own wings now so I don't really need the fly spell right now."
Blue Bubble. The Door (DM SteveK) Tuesday July 20th, 2021 3:19:25 AM
Sarge hazards they could go through a few at a time, but that is taking an assumption in a Teucri area… (Anyone DC 5 for Profession Solder, Know Dungeon, or Know Engineer Highlight to display spoiler: { A quick calculation determines if coordinated, everyone can get through the Door in 1 Round. Fly spell = 40’ move, 80’ hustle for a person in Armor: everyone in the Blue Bubble is 25’ from the Door: the Hallway is 40' long at least for probably plenty of landing spots... as long as they can get to the doorway.}
Gaffer agrees with Sarge, going in pairs, and making sure to leave his Stone for the next person.
Nira wants to know more, and the uniform color and light makes that difficult, but not impossible. (Anyone Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { the portion of the translucent, white-lit, tube-like hallway that one can see is 40’ long and 15’ wide. Bobo may have to squeeze through the Door, but he will be OK in the Tunnel.} )
Desdichado focuses his attention on Sorrel. It takes some cajoling, but the pinto-Centaur nods and visibly pulls herself together. ”Yes, there is always hope. I will go with you.” She's ready to come along. (ooc: excellent use of Diplomacy!)
Hmerrin brings up several logistical issues: how do we get to the Door, and what do we do about… The young man calls out to Bobo with a suggestion. Bobo’s ugly face grins. Yes, bet! it is nothing for the giant to lift the frozen hellhound and toss it 15’ in the air. The creature flies up until it touches the nimbus and… disappears. (Spellcraft DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { The hellhound appeared to be affected as though by a Word of Recall spell.}) The nimbus is still there. "One Gold Piece!, he crows. Bobo gasps in delight and moves to try and throw a demon, but they are too heavy. Instead, he stacks one demon on the other, and now the Hill Giant can jump to reach the Door.
Toston state he can cast Fly five more times before he runs out, so anyone who can’t fly up there, the gnome has them covered.
Sorrel has a Levitation Potion that she drinks and is ready to lift up to the Door.
Denli sticks close by Sarge, he doesn’t have any means to Fly.
……… OOC: Gaffer, Toston, and Sorrel are ready to move through the Door.
Need to know how Nira, Sarge, Desdichado, Hmerrin. Please post the hero's method for getting to the Door, or the DM will assume Toston cast a Fly spell on the PC.
Need to know if Toston will cast Fly spell on Denli.
…….. Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=30 ; Tuesday July 20th, 2021 4:24:49 AM "Woohoo!" Nira cheers Bobo for his great throw "We have a winner!". She's really starting to like this giant. He doesn't seem evil though there's no way to really know his history. Perhaps it's best to let the door decide what to do with him? She's pretty sure that hellhound has just been teleported somewhere by the creator of this place so that might be what happens to Bobo too. She looks into her kit to see whether she has any rations should could share with him before he likely gets blipped away. He deserves something from their meeting she decides.
Nira does some quick math and provides some advice to the group. "If the plan is to go through then I think everyone here could make it through in 5, no, 6 seconds? Provided everyone can get to the door that is. It looks like a 40ft long tunnel too. Maybe 15ft wide." Though she hasn't explicitly said it, she is kind of implying that she's going to be following along with this group.
She is quite comfortable to fly up to the door herself, but she isn't strong enough to carry another person with her.
------------ Knowl Engineering vs DC5: Autopass Perception vs DC20: Autopass Spellcraft vs DC25: 30=Pass!
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Tuesday July 20th, 2021 12:11:58 PM
"Nira's right," Sarge says. "We can all make it in one 'window' if we plan it out. Toston, I'm gonna need one of those Fly spells."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday July 20th, 2021 12:37:12 PM
"I can't fly," says Desdichado, "I'm not even good at jumping. I'll need some help to get up there."
Hmerrin tosses Bobo a gold piece. "Nice job, big fella."
He nods at the news they should all be able to bum rush the tunnel.
"OK, everyone lines up, and we rush in. Bobo goes first."
The fighter takes his Fly Potion, lets Wardd know it'd be really nice if Bobo lands someplace pleasant, and lines himself up.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday July 20th, 2021 9:24:31 PM
The others make a good point about going through together, and assuming Toston is ok giving everybody flight, Gaffer waits up by the door, stone at the ready, once everyone seems to be prepared he will give a countdown "3... 2... 1... Go!" using the stone to activate the door and rushing through.
---------- Perception vs DC20: Autopass
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:33:07 PM
Toston will cover Nira, Sarge, Desdichado, Hmerrin and Denli with fly spells. He will then make sure his dragon wings are fully grown if not already and will fly with his dragon wings up.
It’s Ticking Away With My Sanity
"3... 2... 1... Go!" (DM SteveK) Wednesday July 21st, 2021 4:04:41 AM
The Tide set up and execute their go-through-the-door plan. Toston is instrumental in the solution, as the Sorcerer can cast the same spell again and again as necessary. In the end, the gnome only has to cast Fly on three people: Sarge, Desdichado, and Denli the dwarf. (ooc: Toston uses only three appropriate spell slots.
Bobo likes the idea that he gets to go first. When Gaffer touches the Stone to the Door: "3... 2... 1... Go!" , the Hill Giant takes a running start, leaps to the backs of the stacked, frozen demons, and leaps! Bobo doesn’t make it to the Door. Like the hellhound, he touches the nimbus and disappears!
The Tide, Nira, Denli, and Sorrel don’t have the luxury to wonder, they bum rush the open doorway!
Nira! Sarge and Denli! Desdichado! The four swoop in on magical flight like a line of geese!
Sorrel moves immediately behind Desdichado by rising straight up on levitation magic!
Hmerrin is a beeline from his Flying Potion!
Toston’s golden wings take two beats and a fold, threading the needle!
And Gaffer-Elemental whooshes into the Door with his Stone still in his hand!
……………..
The heroes find themselves in a 15’ wide, tube-like corridor that curves until out of sight 40’ away. The tube itself glows in a gentle white light. The Door, with the same indention, is behind the group.
They also quickly realize there is someone missing: Sorrel the pinto-centaur is not in the corridor!
Nira only Highlight to display spoiler: { The elf feels older, a hundred years older. Please mark Nira’s PC Sheet accordingly}
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { In an otherwise pristinely clean corridor, there is a bit of dust wafting about the Door and clinging to Desdichado.}
…………….
Each Hero gains 25,000xp
Each Hero gains a Hero Point! Desdichado, Sarge, and Gaffer for healing/ protecting allies during the fight with the demons Hmerrin and Nira for excellent role-play with the evil but stupid Bobo the Hill Giant Toston for excellent flying solution and using 3 spell slots to solve the Door puzzle.
…….. Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+6=10 ; Wednesday July 21st, 2021 12:27:22 PM
Sarge frowns. "Guess Sorrel decided not to come after all," she says. "Hope she'll be okay in there."
Hmerrin at first gives Dez a quizzical look, his mouth forming an O as comprehension dawns. "You mean everybody aged all the missing years? Domi's Teeth....." The fighter glances over at Nira and Denli. "What about you two? Are you all right?"
The fighter turns his attention to the corridor. "Well, I guess we can assume nothing will be coming in behind us. Toston, you wanna take the lead? Me and Dez next, Gaffer and Sarge, Nira and Denli." He double checks with Nira. "That good for you? You strike me as a 'Stand behind the goons and blast them with spells' kinda person."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday July 21st, 2021 8:30:22 PM
Gaffer, noticing the dust around Des, can only shake his head, that's no way for a life to end. Just what is this artifact intended for.
Looking at Nira he asks, "Let us know if we should be doing anything else but otherwise, onward!" Gaffer falls into line and begins the march forward, hoping the tunnel leads somewhere before they all turn to dust.
---------- Perception vs DC20: Autopass
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday July 21st, 2021 11:34:54 PM
Nira gives a nod to Hmerrin and then stretches her neck a little feeling it give a small 'crick'. "I feel like I've slept awkwardly. My bones are a little stiff." She tries to shake it out and puts it down to the amount of time she'd spent in the time bubble. Right now she glad she's not a human. Or Sorrel. She checks her nails and hair to see if they are the appropriate length and then, just to check, Nira cups her hand and breathes into it. If she has 100 year old breath she's going to be terribly embarrassed.
"May I?" She gestures to the 'dust' on Desdichado. If he doesn't object Nira casts a Prestidigitation spell to remove it from him.
She has no trouble with following along with the party. "I'm happy to stand wherever you point me" she responds to Hmerrin.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+24=31 ; Thursday July 22nd, 2021 12:19:47 AM
(Percepton: 31)
Toston says, "I concur. I think while that bubble exists out of time, if you take something out of it then time catches up with it. I guess we really are only dust in the wind in the end if you think about it, in the grand scheme of things."
Another Encounter (DM SteveK) Thursday July 22nd, 2021 4:09:38 AM
"You mean everybody aged all the missing years? Domi's Teeth..."
“Just what is this artifact intended for?”
“I guess we really are only dust in the wind in the end”
The effect of the Time Bubble is sobering. Thoughts of Sorrel’s demise turns to Nira and Denli. Luckily, both have been here much less than the centaur, and they are of a race with longer lifetimes too. Both the elf and dwarf state they are relatively unaffected.
Hmerrin is a real ‘worry about the now-worry now’ type of guy; and turns his attention to the corridor. The Fighter calls out a walking order, and no one has any objections.
Toston. Hmerrin and Dez. Gaffer and Sarge. Nira and Denli.
----------
The heroes walk until the Door recedes behind them. Time doesn’t flow, only a step, step, step of moving. No one gets tired, no one gets hungry. And the monotony of the white-lit tube-like hallway quickly makes time meaningless… Five minutes? Five years? The concept almost doesn’t matter. But the Tide, Nira, and Denli do come to another Door, another indention. There is nothing to do other than Gaffer to move forward from his walking order, inserting his Stone, and seeing what happens.
This Door doesn’t disappear, but suddenly, the heroes find themselves standing in a room with the Door behind them!
This ‘room’ has a floor with no walls or ceiling. On the floor, it looks like there are occasional pools of liquids, each containing different colors and images sliding across each liquid. Reclining by one pool about 70’ away is a small human female with a huge metal golem looking like liquid silver. The golem-like creature stares at the newcomers with three eyes; two the same liquid silver as its skin, and one like a glowing ruby. The woman keeps staring at the pool in front of her.
“Welcome to the prison of your eternity”, she says sadly.
Know Engineering or Know Planes DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: { There is a pattern to the pools, identical to a spiral pattern named after an eccentric gnome Sage, Fibonacci. The location and distance approximate the ‘golden spiral’ created by drawing circular arcs connecting the opposite corners of squares with successive numbers. (1+1=2, 1+2=3, 2+3=5, 3+5=8, 5+8=13, etc.). No, there’s not much useful in the information other than perhaps insight into the weird mind of the Teucri that built the place…}
…….. Tecuri Time Bubble Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday July 22nd, 2021 2:14:53 PM
"Again?" Desdichado wonders aloud. "We just got out of an eternal prison. How many of these things are there?"
"Okay," he continues, "we might as well start asking now: When are you from? And how long would you estimate you've been here? I'm Desdichado, by the way."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) d20+7=18 ; Thursday July 22nd, 2021 2:53:03 PM
[Knowledge: Engineering 18]
"Yeah, I'm gonna have to vote 'no' on eternal prison," Sarge says. Then, "Not sure if it means anything, but these pools are laid out in a pretty specific sequence."
"Gaffer, you still have the stone, right?" Hmerrin asks quickly.
Taking in the surroundings, or lack thereof, he notes the pattern of the pools, emits a "hrmf", and makes his way over to girl and the golem.
"Hi, I'm Hmerrin. We seem to have been blipped here by some kind of Turkey Stone, got out of the Sphere of Timelessness, and here we are. And, like Sarge said, we're a bit opposed to both prison and eternity. What makes you say that, and who's the Silver Guy?"
While he's waiting, he takes a long look at one of these pools. "Tried diving into one of these?" he asks. (Perception 27 while looking in pool)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=42 ; Thursday July 22nd, 2021 9:14:17 PM "What an interesting sequence. There's a patern to the pools. 2, 3, 5, 8... " Nira is so focused at the mathematical sequence that she fails to really take much notice of the woman.
She tries to have a good look into the nearest pool, curious what the images are. She is very careful to avoid touching it.
Toston exclaims "Why it is the sequence named after that gnome sage Fibbonacci!"
He says to the woman, "Interesting Golem, what does it do?"
Dali and Arkus (DM SteveK) Friday July 23rd, 2021 3:26:26 AM
Desdichado has a severe case of déjà vu. “Might as well start asking now: When are you from? And how long would you estimate you've been here? “
Sarge has to vote 'no' on eternal prison." Then the veteran notes the pattern to the pools.
Hmerrin wants to know Gaffer has the Stone. The druid does. So, the young man goes into a simple explanation.
Nira becomes fascinated with the pattern and checks out a pool. A sequence of images flit across the surface: a desperate battle in the snow between undead shadow-wraiths and a band of unlikely heroes. It does not look good for the heroes, one of their number already lays unmoving in the snow, even as an armored minotaur flies into the scene…
Toston recognizes the gnome sage Fibbonacci and his work. Fascinating! Then he tries to get an assessment on the golem. "Interesting Golem, what does it do?" …………..
The woman laughs, light and happy. “And I am the Wizard of Renown, Dali, unsurpassed in the knowledge and accumulation of artifacts! Even better than those upstarts, Maegos and Kelsandria! I used the Time Pebble to escape the coming Cataclysm of the Northern Continent. But alas!”, she giggles, an emotion out of keeping with her words, ”Yarmin the Teucri was here and tricked me into giving him the Time Pebble. Without that, I was trapped, as you are.’
Dali, the short woman still sits by the pool, but turns to Hmerrin with sudden anger flashing in her eyes. ”I know who you are! The Tide, who so recently saved the Dwarfs of Deepforge from an invasion of a chaotic plane! But you know nothing, Hmerrin Tide! You are still within Yarmin’s Workshop, you only got out of his doorstep! And without the Time Pebble, you will never get out, no matter how far you wander!!”
As suddenly as she was angry, her mood changes again. Demure, batting lashes, her voice purring. “The Pools, sweet Hmerrin? They are permanent Scrying pools, so that Yarmin could see the Wold. Images only, less than a thumbnail deep. So here I sit, knowing everything that is happening and unable to …”, she pouts, kittenish, teasing, …do… anything…”
At Toston’s question, it is the golem that answers. ”Yes, Master Yarmin had guests in the past.”
Dali turns seductive eyes to the gnome. ”This is Arkus, the guardian created by Yarmin. Arkus is a Teucri Lifewalker. It is powered by a Twisted Woldsblood Core and the Teucri imbued it with Chaos Magic which makes spells targeting it and the effect of souls nearby… unpredictable.”
The golem-like Lifewalker, Arkus, responds to his name. ”Yes, Arkus has orders that no guest can leave this room without Master Yarmin.”
…………..
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Friday July 23rd, 2021 4:46:10 PM
"Domi's Teeth," Hmerrin mutters unhappily. Wizard Lady got tricked by an actual, breathing Teucri? That makes her ridiculously old, and apparently her mind left the premises some time ago.
Which leaves....
The lad turns his attention to the golem, making a full move toward it as he speaks. "Arkus, is it? Can you tell me where Master Yarmin is? Can you also tell me, if we decided to leave, and you weren't around to stop us, how would we do that, exactly?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+24=40 ; Friday July 23rd, 2021 7:52:02 PM
Gaffer shuffles a little way away from the magic altering golem, he has had quite enough of that if he can help it. Most of the other words from this Dali are lost on him and so he too turns his attention towards the pools, walking between them and searcing for people or places he might recognise.
---------- Perception: 40
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+24=36 ; Sunday July 25th, 2021 7:45:47 PM
Desdichado has a sense that things might be heading for trouble, and keeps a watch on the gnomish woman. (Sense Motive: 36).
Regardless, he whispers to Gaffer, hopefully where the gnome or golem can't hear him, "Think your Stone of the Forge Lord might be a time stone?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+24=38 ; Sunday July 25th, 2021 10:05:52 PM
Toston says, "While you guys discuss things I'm going to take advantage of where we are to see if any of these scrying pools have hints with respect to the Rakshashas."
He gazes from Scrying pool to Scrying Pool hoping to catch a glimpse of the Rakshashas and what they might be up to now.
(Perception: 38)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=25 ; d20+23=27 ; Sunday July 25th, 2021 10:13:54 PM
Nira looks away from the scrying pool. There are so many. She can see how a person might get lost flicking through pools one by one looking for something good to watch.
"It must be quite lonely only being able to see the world but not interact with it. How long have you been here?" She asks Dali. "Have you had any company other than Arkus?". Nira studies the woman quite closely. If she has gone crazy she could be unpredictable and that could make her dangerous.
------------------ Knowl History 31 (Take10) - Does the name 'Yarmin' sound familiar? Perception: 25 Sense Motive: 27
Arcane Sight: "If you concentrate on a specific creature within 120 feet of you as a standard action, you can determine whether it has any spellcasting or spell-like abilities, whether these are arcane or divine (spell-like abilities register as arcane), and the strength of the most powerful spell or spell-like ability the creature currently has available for use."
An Escape Route? (DM SteveK) Monday July 26th, 2021 3:22:39 AM
Hmerrin mutters "Domi's Teeth". Again. The lad turns his attention to the golem.
Gaffer shuffles away from the magic altering golem, he has had quite enough of that! The druid looks at the pools looking for recognizable people or places. Gaffer sees a party in an Inn: why, it is the Giggling Ghost! And there is Hmerrin congratulating the Sea Dragons on the occasion of their retirement.
Desdichado senses Dali, the short human woman, is insane, but still has control of her knowledge and memory. The paladin can’t predict what she will do or say at any moment, but has a hunch that whatever she says, it will be true.
Toston leaves discussion to the others, and joins Gaffer in gazing from Pool to Pool, looking for Rakshasha. He sees a ship levitating over grass-covered plains, and the crew seems to include a bear-headed humanoid and a badger-headed humanoid, but both are as small as a gnome. Toston only Highlight to display spoiler: {The gnome speculates that the pools closer to the center of the Fibonacci pattern have more control…}
Nira, not ever hearing the name ‘Yarmin’ before, engages Dali. While speaking, her Arcane Sight tells her that Dali has arcane spellcasting abilities, but the most powerful spell available for use is a Cantrip. The elf is all but blinded, however, when looking upon Dali: the short human woman has a pendant that is of overwhelming power!
Sarge keeps watch and Denli sticks close to Sarge.
------------------
Hmerrin’s conversation with Arkus is… strange. H - Arkus, is it? A – ”Yes, Master Yarmin is a Teucri.” H - Can you tell me where Master Yarmin is? A –” No, guests may not leave this room.” H - Can you also tell me, if we decided to leave, and you weren't around to stop us, how would we do that, exactly? A – “No, I do not like Green Eggs and Ham.”
Nira’s conversation yields more insight. Dali excitedly talks with the elf. I have lost count of the centuries, you know that although time doesn’t move in the Workshop, it continues in the Wold!”
Perhaps surprisingly, Dali answers Hmerrin’s question too, bubbling with enthusiasm. ” How you would get out of Yarmin’s Workshop? I have thought about that for a long time. You see, I think the Cataclysm even affected the Time Pebble so Yarmin couldn’t get back in. That’s why Arkus and I have been left here for millennia. But there is a way to escape!”
“If you could craft a counter charge, you could break the artifact and everything in the Workshop would age to their proper time. I also have figured out the objects in the Workshop that you would need to create this counter charge. I will become dust, but that’s better than an eternity of observing without helping!”
“You will need the Time Pebble, Arkus’ Twisted Woldsblood Core, and Yarmin’s Ultimate Nullifier. Power the Nullifier with the Core and touch the Nullifier to the Time Pebble. That should destroy all three objects and let time continue as normal! “ The short human woman actually claps her hands together, she is so excited!
…………..
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday July 26th, 2021 4:51:29 PM
Desdichado stares at Dali, eyes wide open in shock at what he's just heard. "I knew this would be trouble," he mutters to himself. Louder, he continues, "Oh, no problem - we'll just take a Woldsblood core from the golem. I'm sure if we ask nicely...Arkus, will you give us your Woldsblood core?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Monday July 26th, 2021 7:06:26 PM
"And what's an Ultimate Nullifier?" Sarge asks. Privately, she thinks it sounds like the kind of overpriced "magic" item that unscrupulous shop owners try to sell to gullible adventurers.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday July 26th, 2021 7:15:07 PM
Gaffer narrows his eyes at Arkus, it's hard to feel good about deciding to attack the golem, whether morally, or from a self preservation stand point. Nodding at Sarge's question he adds, "I vote we get that piece second, and leave the last one until, well, can we even rest in here?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday July 26th, 2021 9:14:03 PM
Nira looks about for something small - a pebble or some such - otherwise anything small she may have in her pocket. She wants to see what happens if she drops something in one of the pools. It may be that they are just pools for scrying, however it might also be they could teleport the group somewhere and she's curious which it is.
"Um, when time reverted to normal - or we think some sort of normal - a person that was with us turned to dust. I feel a little older myself. If you came here to escape the cataclysm of the northern continent then I'm sorry to say that you must be quite old. If time was to flow freely here again there's no telling how far it would extend. It might even flow normally here in the workshop. If that were the case wouldn't it, you know, be somewhat lethal for you?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Monday July 26th, 2021 11:52:04 PM
Toston says, "I see some small animal headed folks boarding a flying ship over a grass plain. They are small though so I don't know if they are Raksashas or not. I'm gonna go farther towards the center of the Fibbonacci pattern to see if I can have more control. After I get a clue of what our enemies our up to maybe I can ask the pools to show me Yarmin. Anyone know if the scrying pools can also be turned inward into this workshop?"
Do We Just Ask? (DM SteveK) Tuesday July 27th, 2021 2:00:20 AM
Desdichado knew this would be trouble, what, all they have to do is ask nicely? Hearing his name, Arkus answers. ”Yes, Master Yarmin had guests in the past.”
Sarges asks about the Ultimate Nullifier. Dali is deadpan when she answers. ”Yarmin used the Ultimate Nullifier to dispose of failed magical experiments. It is an artifact, and if supercharged by the Core, should destroy the Time Pebble which will let everything trapped back into normal Woldian time.”
Gaffer sizes up Arkus and suggests they get the ‘Nullifier’ before getting the ‘Core’. And can they even rest in here? Dali sadly responds. ”I know the path to the Nullifier, but you won’t be able to come back here. Yarmin set up OneWay Doors in his Workshop layers. Once you pass through, you have to exit before getting back to level one. And you can’t exit unless you short out the Time Pebble, which I don’t know where that is. That’s why you are trapped forever.”
Dali continues. ”No, you can’t ever rest or recover spells in the Workshop, time doesn’t work that way. Well, I actually have an artifact that can let me do it, but only once. And since I don’t have access to all three items, there was no reason to use it.” (Nira recalls the overwhelming aura of Dali’s Amulet.)
Nira tests the pools, and could be forgiven surprise as her copper piece (the room is VERY clean) bounces off the surface! She broaches a delicate subject with Dali. "When time reverted to normal, a person that was with us turned to dust. If time was to flow freely here again, wouldn't it be somewhat lethal for Dali? The Wizard of Renown laughs happily. ” I can tell you how to travel through the Workshop, but can’t go myself. Each OneWay Door ages back to normal and I’ve been here too long. Yes, if you succeed, I will finally die, and it will be a relief!”
Toston is on a trail for information, and moves around the Fibbonacci pattern, seeking to control the pool images. He’s looking for Rakshasa, Yarmin, and maybe inward into this workshop. It is an easy walk to get to the third-from-center pool, and the Dragon Disciple is rewarded to see he has some control, but the images flicker too fast to catch more than passing faces. Toston can see the center of the pattern is at the feet of Dali, and well within the reach of Arkus…
…………..
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:31:17 AM
Hmerrin tries to summarize the information.
"So there are more one way doors, eventually leading to this Workshop. The Nullifier is in the Workshop. Arkus's Woldsblood Core is inside old Arkus here. We power the Nullifer with the Core, and then touch the Nullifier to the Time Pebble."
The lad thinks a bit.
"Couple questions. Where's the Time Pebble, and is Arkus more vulnerable to any type of weapon over another?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Tuesday July 27th, 2021 2:14:48 PM
"Arkus," Sarge asks, "Is there anyone who is authorized to perform maintenance on you?"
Not much chance, she acknowledges inwardly, but it's worth a shot.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:50:01 PM "Would you be able to describe what Yarmin looks like? Just in case we happen to run into him" Nira asks Dali.
She's a little sad the wizard is happy to die, though she can understand it if the woman has been alive for so long.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:51:43 PM
Toston says to Dali, "Can I control the scrying pools for a bit? I'd like to see if I can see what else is in the workshop, where this Yarmin guy is or an unrelated group of Raksashas we have a personal history with?"
Do We Just Ask? (DM SteveK) Wednesday July 28th, 2021 12:51:35 AM
Hmerrin sums up and Dali angrily makes a couple corrections. ” Thern are two more one way doors, separating the different levels of the Workshop: Entrance, Magic Rooms, Monster Pits, and Yarmin’s Private Room. The Nullifier is in the Private Room. Arkus's Woldsblood Core is inside old Arkus here. You power the Nullifer with the Core, and then touch the Nullifier to the Time Pebble."
Arkus says [b]”. Yes, Arkus has orders that no guest can leave this room without Master Yarmin. “
Dali continues sadly. “I don’t know where's the Time Pebble, but it had to be near you when you were transported here. And Arkus has no special vulnerability that I have been able to learn.”[/b]
Arkus responds to his name. ”. Yes, Master Yarmin is a Teucri. “
Sarge asks Arkus a question. The response is ” No, guests may not leave this room. “
Nira asks about Yarmin. Dali says deadpan As you know, the Teucri were unique even among themselves, no two Teucri looked the same. Yarmin looked like an eight foot tall dark brown elf with light lavender hair. Only three fingers per hand and had a distracted look like always thinking of too many things to concentrate on the now. “
Toston talks to Dali, who responds lovingly, "Here in the Divination Room, you can see it is an infinite plane, as Divination is infinite possibilities. You are welcome to control the center scrying pool, but Argus will not allow you to move away from him. And in the workshop? No, the pools only show the lands of the Wold, and then the people who live there.”
…………..
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:26:43 AM
"Monster Pits. Terrific."
Hmerrin takes a deep, cleansing breath, then rolls his shoulders and neck while speaking, getting loose. "Time Pebble got us in here, check.
Unless anyone's got a brighter idea, I'm thinking its about time me and the Not Spell Casters extract this Core from Arkus. Anyone got some buff spells, I'll be happy to take them."
The fighter steps closer to the golem, so that he is 30' away. He pulls out a potion, and waits to see if the others buff up, or have some more questions first.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 96/96] (Kathy) Wednesday July 28th, 2021 1:04:51 PM
"The kid's right," Sarge says. "Only one way to get that thing, and sitting around isn't it."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday July 28th, 2021 4:21:41 PM
Desdichado looks sad as he pulls out his axe and moves up next to Hmerrin. Maybe the sudden disappearance of Sorrel still weighs on him. "I wish there was another way other than destroying Arkus. But, so be it."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday July 28th, 2021 6:41:32 PM
Seeing the others get ready, Gaffer expends his last six level spell slot to cast Summon Nature's Ally and summon an elephant to join the party. "I'm not sure I have much that'll hurt dear Arkus, I expect most things will get hurt if you gore them enough though."
----- Active Effects ----- Summon Nature's Ally - Elephant; HP 115/115; AC17 (T8; FF17) - Duration 14/14 Rounds
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday July 28th, 2021 8:04:53 PM
8ft tall elf with lavender hair and three fingers on each hand? Ok, chances are they're not going to get him mixed up with someone else.
She watches as the others prepare for a fight and listens as they discuss plans. Can Arkus and Dali hear them? She's not sure, so she tries to distract them a little. "So how would one control the center scrying pool? A lot of time has passed while I've been trapped in this bubble and it would be interesting to see what's changed. Oh, and since you mentioned it, what did you mean by unpredictable results if someone was to cast a spell on another person?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday July 29th, 2021 1:07:05 AM
Toston says, "Must things devolve into violence? Especially when I only have 1 first level spell slot, 2 3rd level spell slots and 0 usage of my metamagic rod."
Toston tries to pull a logic bomb on Arkus, "Arkus, if no 2 Teucri looked alike how could you tell the Teucri's were a distinct species of being?"
If that doesn't work he says to Arkus, "This sentence is false."
(OOC: The phrase this sentence is false is actually a paradox as it is self referential. If that sentence is true, then going by what is said, it must also be false. Similarly, if the sentence is false, then it accurately describes itself, so it must also be true. But it can't be both true and false - so we have a contradiction.)
Get the Core. COMBAT. RD 1 (DM SteveK) Thursday July 29th, 2021 3:09:53 AM
Hmerrin is out of birght ideas and ready to ‘extract this Core from Arkus’. He gets to charging distance and readies for battle. Arkus responds to his name by saying ” No, I do not like Green Eggs and Ham.“
Sarge agrees. “The kid's right."
Desdichado looks sad as he pulls out his axe and moves up next to Hmerrin. “So be it."
Gaffer summons a Nature's Ally which arrives the beginning of next round, an elephant!
Nira is certain Arkus and Dali can hear the battle plans and see what is happening, but neither the Wizard nor the Teucri Walker make any move or preparation. Still, the elf attempts to distract. Dali deadpans her response. ”I think of a place and the Pool shows it to me as long as I concentrate. Each of the eight Magic Rooms on this Workshop level have unique properties, and the One-Way Door to the Monster Labs are hidden in one of them. But that is only if you can use the Magic Room doors correctly.’ (Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Dali knows both secrets.})
The Wizard continues. ” Lifewalkers have been enhanced with special protections from spells. Any time a spell or spell-like effect has a Lifewalker in the target area, something different happens. Maybe it works, maybe less effective, different effect, or even bounces back on the caster.”
Toston tries to elicit more information from Arkus. The Lifewalker responds to the question with ” Yes, Master Yarmin had guests in the past.”“. It does not respond to the gnome’s statement.
………….. We are in Combat Rounds (just because we have a spell in effect with a short duration)
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
The Tide (and Nira) have the initiative.
Map in Email
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+4=20 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 3:59:52 AM
Nira can tell that Dali knows more than she is letting on and tries to find a way to tease it from her.
"Interesting. So 8 rooms, magic doors that couldbe tricky to use - presumably all different - and the door to the monster lab is hidden in one of the rooms. Good thing we have an eternity to work this out!" She looks for any reaction from Dali at the 'joke'. "I know you said that dying would be a relief, and it does sadden me to hear that. If that is what you want though, are you able to provide us any help in some way? Perhaps you could tell me how to use the doors? Or perhaps which room leads to the monster labs? If it was Yarmin that tricked you and trapped you here, then providing us information to pop the bubble would be a good first step to getting back at him wouldn't it?"
-------------- Sense Motive check vs DC20: 23=Autopass Full Round Action: Diplomacy: 22 (20+2WLA Bonus) to make a request for information assuming they aren't hostile yet
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+24=31 ; d20+24=44 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 3:00:29 PM
At the golem's non-sequeter to Toston's remark, Desdichado says, "I think it's broken, Toston. Unless someone has an idea on how to fix it, I think we'll have to smash Arkus to get out of here."
(Sense motive: 31) (Diplomacy: 44)
Desdichado adds to Nira's request - "Yes, Dali - we could really use your help about anything you may know in how to escape and how to provide you with relief. We obviously have no quarrel with you and only want to get home."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 147/167 AC:33 T:19 FF:27 CMD:34) Thursday July 29th, 2021 5:05:27 PM
"These two are both several veggies short of a Farmer's Market," Hmerrin remarks. "And unless you got some green eggs around, we're doing it the hard way,"
The fighter drinks his potion (heroism).
"I'm going in four, three, two.."
--- In Effect
Heroism: +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday July 29th, 2021 7:01:47 PM
Figuring there's no time like the present, Sarge casts Righteous Might.
[OOC: Serious question. Why are we tracking spell durations? Time isn't moving.]
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday July 29th, 2021 7:21:59 PM
As soon as the Elephant appears at AD6, Gaffer rests a hand against its flank to encourage to hold for the moment and launches into his next casting, converting a fifth level slot to summon a Woolly Rhinoceros to S5, the edge of his reach and the perfect spot for a charge attack to follow up.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+4=10 ; Friday July 30th, 2021 12:00:11 AM
Toston says to Des, "I was trying to break it more. I had heard fanciful tales once of machines like this life walker that could not handle contradictions well but I guess this lifewalker only pays attentiion to certain questions and provide answers."
Toston says to the life walker, "When Master Yarmin needed to repair you how did he go about doing it? I think you might be broken and need maintenence. Perhaps we could do what Yarmin used to do?"
Diplomacy: 10
Four, Three, Two… COMBAT. RD 1 (DM SteveK) Friday July 30th, 2021 2:40:21 AM
Nira can tell that Dali knows more than she has said so far, and tries to tease it from her. Dali laughs, ”Of course I’ll tell you, all you had to do was ask. I know so much, I could literally talk for centuries, which would kill most of you from old age if you ever got out.”
“You see the door is round and in the floor. The doors in the Magic rooms can be entered from any direction, the one door leads to every other Magic Room, depending on where you stand when you open the door. For example, you must have been standing at the 6 o’clock position to enter the Divination Room. The 9 o’clock position leads to the Illusion Room. If you ask for an illusion of Yarmin’s Spiral Stair, it will appear and connect to the Monster Pits, the Spiral Maze.”
Desdichado pinpoints Arkus’ issue, it is also broken. Arkus responds to his name by saying ” Yes, Arkus has orders that no guest can leave this room without Master Yarmin.”Dali sighs in deep sadness, ”I also have no quarrel. The only other thing I know about Yarmin’s Workshop is a great destruction happened in the Necromancy Room. There, you may be able to rest before exploring the other rooms or moving further into Yarmin’s Workshop to seek the Ultimate Nullifier.’
Hmerrin is ready to do it the hard way, in four, three, two…
Sarge casts Righteous Might.
[OOC: Serious question. Why are we tracking spell durations? Time isn't moving.] [OOC Response: Would Sarge like to use a Hero Point for Inspiration to find out?]
Gaffer brings in his Elephant and starts to bring in a Woolly Rhinoceros.
Toston explains his gambit, and asks another question. Arkus responds, ” Yes, Master Yarmin is a Teucri.”.
………….. We are in Combat Rounds (just because we have a spell in effect with a short duration)
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
Hmerrin launches himself at Arkus, pulling both axes on the way. Reaching the golem, he swings as hard as he can.
-- Move to U11 while drawing weapons. AC vs AoO is 36 Attack Arkus. Power Attack
Hit AC 36 for 26 hp damage.
In Effect Heroism: +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+23=32 ; d12+9=16 ; Friday July 30th, 2021 4:24:48 PM
Desdichado watches Hmerrin move forward, and follows right along to attack Arkus.
32 vs AC; 16 damage
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Friday July 30th, 2021 8:34:54 PM
Sarge double-moves toward Arkus, ending at AB/AC - 11/12. (She needs to be Large-sized on the map.)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Sunday August 1st, 2021 8:37:26 AM
Nira has some concerns about fighting this construct. For starters, any spell she casts at it could have some sort of unexpected consequence. Then there's the fact it's powered by some 'twisted' Woldsblood Core. As a bloodwitch, woldsblood is the source of a lot of her spells. Could that be a good or bad thing? Finally, it's a construct. She has very few spells that could affect it anyway.
She prepares to instead heal the damage that these Tide people may incur.
"Sorry Arkus, but we need that core. Dali, you've known Arkus for a long time. Do you have any insights about it? Any weaknesses for instance?"
-------------- Question to DMs... Highlight to display spoiler: {Nira cast Spectral Hand in the 'waiting room'. It has a duration of 13mins. Has that amount of time passed? If not she'll recast now. Thanks}
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+16=32 ; 4d8+20=36 ; Sunday August 1st, 2021 6:05:31 PM
Gaffer finishes summoning the Rhino, who charges the enemy placed before it. Meanwhile Gaffer pats the Elephant beside him on the flank, calling go and directing it towards Arkus. He himself holds his position and waits for a moment, not wanting to risk and direct spells and unsure how effective his summons will be, if at all.
----- Woolly Rhinoceros - Powerful Charge From S5 to S10 - To Hit: 32; Damage: 36 Elephant - Double Move to U10
Toston was going to use his spike chain to try to trip Arkus up but then he realized the size of the creature so instead he casts grease targetting a 10 foot patch of the floor on which Arkus is standing on.
Arkus must make a DC 15 reflex save or fall
One! COMBAT. RD 3 (DM SteveK) d20+28=35 ; d100=29 ; d20=12 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+28=46 ; d20+28=45 ; 3d8+18=36 ; 3d8+18=35 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 4:01:28 AM
Hmerrin finishes his count down and launches himself at Arkus, and the Lifewalker takes the opportunity to strike at an obvious opponent, and barely misses! The Fighter hits once, and may be pleased to note that it doesn’t appear Arkus has any Damage Resistance! But then the nearness of the LIfewalker pulls at Hmerrin’s soul! (Will DC 20 or Dazed d4 rounds)
2 Slams +28 (3d8+18)]
Desdichado watches Hmerrin move forward, and follows right along to attack Arkus, but can’t get through the liquid metal skin. Arkus doesn’t seem to have that ability to take advantage of multiple opportunities so quickly. But then the nearness of the LIfewalker pulls at the Paladin’s soul! (Will DC 20 or Dazed d4 rounds)
The Large Sarge moves towards Arkus.
Nira looks and notes she still has her Spectral Hand hovering about. She prepares to heal her new companions when they get hurt. She talks to Arkus who only says ” No, guests may not leave this room.” Dali deadpans her answer, ”I don’t know of any Lifewalker weaknesses.”
Gaffer directs his animal friends who try their best, but can’t damage the Teucri-made creature. The druid himself holds his position and waits for a moment, assessing the situation. But then the nearness of the LIfewalker pulls at both animals’ souls! (Will DC 20 or Dazed d4 rounds)
Toston thinks of and discards an attack option, instead setting a Grease spell targeted to the floor below the Lifewalker. But as the spell is affecting Arkus, the grease arrives in puddles here and there: the Lifewalker keeps its balance.
…………
Arkus responds with two metallic fists at Hmerrin. Both connect for 71 bludgeoning damage! Even worse, Hmerrin is affected as if he were touched by Woldsblood!! (Make two Will DC 25: each fail = Dazed d4 rounds and lose d6 Wisdom!)
Dali sits there, unmoving.
………….. Arkus AC 36 Dam 26
Twisted Core: Any living being within 10’ DC Will 20 or Dazed d4 rounds. Attack: Any successful attack by the Lifewalker affects like one drop of Woldsblood. Will DC 25 or Daze d4 rounds and d6 temp Wisdom damage for d4 days. Magical Chaos: random spell effects on any spell that affects a Lifewalker.
Dazed. Unable to act normally.
We are in Combat Rounds!
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
Map in Email
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday August 2nd, 2021 1:51:11 PM
Sarge moves up (to X/Y - 11/12) and casts Bless.
Desdichado sees the powerful swings that Arkus brings down and returns with one of his own, the others unable to penetrate the golem's thick exterior.
In between swings he says "Toston...I feel like we're over our heads...Dali seems...fond of you. Maybe you could ask her for help?"
41 vs AC; 15 damage 32 vs AC; miss 33 vs AC; miss
(OOC: My brain couldn't do simple addition today, and initially thought I had a crit.)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday August 2nd, 2021 5:43:02 PM
(OOC: Okay, my mind was doubly addled today - it looks like I did have a nat20 on the 3rd roll of the full attack, so that would be 10 more damage, taking the original rolls.)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 76/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20-10=0 ; d20+10=14 ; d20+10=14 ; d4=2 ; d6=4 ; d4=2 ; d6=4 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 7:02:19 PM
Will Save 20 pass (should have been +10 rather than -10) Will Saves 14 and 14 (fail and fail)
Hmerrin powers through Arkus' field as he attacks, but the Lifewalker's return blows overwhelm him.
The young fellow stands stunned
---- Dazed. Rd 1 of 4. -8 Wisdom
In Effect Heroism: +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+3=23 ; d20+6=15 ; d4=1 ; d20+16=30 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 8:45:51 PM
The rhinoceros manages to resist the dazing effect temporarily and attempts to gore the metal menace before it, with little chance of success. The elephants great hind legs buckle and the creature momentarily sinks into a stupor.
Meanwhile Gaffer's mind works overtime trying to think of what tactics are available to him, looking around and trying to figure out how high is the highest point from which tecuri gravity would drop a creature back to the floor the party are currently standing on... Then he sees the blow Hmerrin just took and changes tact.
"I've got one more summon that should be able to hurt it, but I am running out of my stronger spells." Gaffer calls to the others as he hustles to close to the fight and begins casting another spell. Hopefully it will present more targets for Arkus too.
----- Gaffer - Move to Y5, begin casting Summon Nature's Ally at level 7. To summon a Greater Earth Elemental to Q10 Woolly Rhinoceros - Gore Attack - To Hit: 30; Miss Elephant - Dazed
[OOC: If I am reading the rules correctly, I believe I can use an action this turn and next to cast another Summon Nature's Ally, which would allow me to also move on this turn? Otherwise, I will simply move this turn and start casting next turn.]
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d8=2 ; d8=8 ; d8=3 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 8:48:23 PM
That Hmerrin person took a big hit. A very bit hit. "Is that why he is swaying?"
Nira knows she's going to have to get up close to treat the dazing effect. She casts a cure spell to be delivered via the spectral hand to take care of some of the immediate damage. She then flies closer to the action to close in on Hmerrin.
"Dali, it might be worth stepping aside a bit. I don't want to see you get hurt."
------------ Move action: Fly to AD10 Standard action: Cast Cure Serious Wounds via Spectral Hand. Hmerrin is healed for 2,8,3,13 = 26pts
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d4+2=5 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 11:22:03 PM
Toston says to Dali, "Do you know any spells that might work against Arkus? I thought maybe grease would work but it totally fizzled."
Toston casts Mirror Image on himself creating 5 illusionary Tostons.
Tracking: 5 illusionary Tostons - Whenever you are attacked or are the target of a spell that requires an attack roll, there is a possibility that the attack targets one of your images instead. If the attack is a hit, roll randomly to see whether the selected target is real or a figment. If it is a figment, the figment is destroyed. If the attack misses by 5 or less, one of your figments is destroyed by the near miss. - 8 minutes 0/7 - 1st level spells remaining 5/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 2/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Lifewalker and Woldsblood. COMBAT. RD 4 (DM SteveK) d20+28=33; d20+28=38 ; 3d8+18=31 ; 3d8+18=37 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 4:30:57 AM
Sarge moves up and casts Bless, the spell doesn’t affect Arkus and benefits the Tide normally.
Desdichado sees the powerful swings that Arkus brings down and returns with one of his own, the others unable to penetrate the golem's thick exterior.
Hmerrin becomes dazed and disoriented as the Lifewalker attacks. It feels as if each hit not only hurts, but pushes his very soul momentarily outside his body!
Gaffer’s Rhinoceros manages to resist the dazing effect and keeps attacking, but the Elephant shakes its head as if in a stupor.
The druid himself looks about. This ‘room’ only consists of a floor, there are no walls or ceiling as far as anyone can see. Gaffer moves forward and begins casting another Summons. (ooc: Summoning takes a full round, so Gaffer uses his move action next turn to make this happen.) When the GEE arrives, it immediately needs to make a Will DC 20 or be Dazed for d4 rounds.
Nira casts a cure spell via her spectral hand on Hmerrin, and then flies closer while giving Dali a warning.
Toston looks for Dali to give the team any advantage, but the Wizard doesn’t have any ideas. “Magic is random on a Lifewalker. Cast a fireball three times and one works normal, one is half as effective, and the third affects you. Chaos Magic.” Arkus responds, ”No, I do not like Green Eggs and Ham.”
……………
Arkus continues on the Dazed Hmerrin, fists pumping like battering rams. Hmerrin takes 68 points of damage and is again potentially affected by the twisted Woldsblood pushing his soul outside his body! (Make two Will DC 25: each fail = Dazed d4 rounds and lose d6 Wisdom. If a PC is at 0 Wisdom, they fall unconscious!)
Dali sighs, ”I suppose”, she says laconically, and takes a bare step to not get hit by Arkus herself.
Denli keeps away by the door.
………….. Arkus AC 36 Dam 51
Twisted Core: Any living being within 10’ DC Will 20 or Dazed d4 rounds. Attack: Arkus’ hits affect like Woldsblood. Will DC 25 or Daze d4 rds + d6 temp WIS damage d4 days. Magical Chaos: random spell effects on any spell that affects a Lifewalker.
Dazed. Unable to act normally. Does not affect AC.
We are in Combat Rounds!
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
Watching Hmerrin take such a savage beating from Arkus concerns Desdichado, but he figures the best way to make things better at this point is to try and bring down the golem. Unfortunately, he gets in only a single glancing blow.
41 vs AC; 6 damage 26 vs AC; miss 20 vs AC; miss
---------- Active effects Bless
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+3=18 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+8=18 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 7:06:52 PM
Gaffer finishes his summoning and takes a breath, he knows they've got more rooms to clear, no concept of time to rest in, and he isn't sure he has many options that will actually effect Arkus. For now he moves closer to the fight, preparing to try and move Hmerrin away on his next turn.
As he moves he gets an excellent view of all his summons simultaneous falling into a daze. Where there minds go as this happens he can only imagine, but they aren't helping much in this fihgt.
----- Gaffer - Move to W9 Woolly Rhinoceros - Will Save 18 - Dazed 2/2 Elephant - Will Save 15 - Dazed 1/1 Greater Earth Elemental - Will Save 18 - Dazed 2/2
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 34/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+6=14 ; d20+6=22 ; d6=1 ; d4=2 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 7:35:03 PM
Will Saves - 14 (fail) and 26 (using hero point to add four to roll, pass)
Hmerrin stands there, and gets battered. Somehow, he's still on his feet.
---- Dazed. Rd 2 of 6. -9 Wisdom
In Effect Heroism: +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+15=30 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 8:07:35 PM
Nira only has one Heal spell that she can cast today and it looks like Hmerrin is going to need it. She casts the powerful spell and then moves in close to deliver it.
She can feel the dazing effect of being so close to the Woldsblood core, but being a bloodwitch she is used to being around the stuff.
---------------- Standard: Cast Heal Move: Fly from AD10 (Nira wasn't updated on the map last round) to V11. Nira might provoke an AoO as part of moving within it's reach Free: Deliver touch spell to Hmerrin. Hmerrin is healed for 130pts, is no longer dazed, and has all Wisdom damage cured
Will Save vs DC20 for moving within 10ft: 30=Pass
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5)
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) 10d6=28 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:12:27 AM
"Worth a shot," Sarge mutters. She casts Flame Strike on Arkus. If the spell works normally, Arkus takes 28 points of damage, DC 21 Reflex save for half. If it doesn't work normally, hilarity ensues.
Then Sarge steps forward [to V/W - 11/12].
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+16=35 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 3:13:59 AM
Toston moves near Hmerrin and defensively casts fly on the stricken fighter. Next round the gnome will grab his hand, grow wings and attempt to fly him out of danger.
Concentration Check: 35
Tracking: Fly (Hmerrin) - 8 minutes 5 illusionary Tostons - Whenever you are attacked or are the target of a spell that requires an attack roll, there is a possibility that the attack targets one of your images instead. If the attack is a hit, roll randomly to see whether the selected target is real or a figment. If it is a figment, the figment is destroyed. If the attack misses by 5 or less, one of your figments is destroyed by the near miss. - 8 minutes 0/7 - 1st level spells remaining 5/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 1/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
Lifewalker and Woldsblood. COMBAT. RD 5 (DM SteveK) d100=12 ; d20+12=19 ; d20=8 ; d20+28=37 ; d20+28=33 ; 3d8+18=28 ; 3d8+18=36 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 4:21:12 AM
Desdichado figures the best way to make things better is to bring down the golem. He gives a glancing blow.
Gaffer finishes his summoning and takes a breath, moving closer to assist Hmerrin. All three summoned animals are weak-willed and are Dazed.
Hmerrin, somehow, is still on his feet.
Nira shows her versatility and moves close, keeping her focus despite the closeness of Woldsblood. Arkus reaches out for an attack, but Nira’s Blur spell protects her, and then she casts Heal: not only are Hmerrin’s wounds and Daze effect gone as if they never were, so is the Wisdom damage!
Sarge mutters "Worth a shot", and casts Flame Strike on Arkus. Then steps forward. Nira is in her way, so she gives a little side-step. As before, Arkus doesn’t seem to be able to attack multiple opportunities as once: she doesn’t get hit. Sarge’s spell gets through and Arkus doesn’t dodge; the veteran dwarf has hurt the Lifewalker worse than anyone else!
………….
Arkus, changes targets, and Sarge gets two fists pounding in. Sarge takes 64 points of damage and the twisted Woldsblood pushing at her soul! (Make two Will DC 25: each fail = Dazed d4 rounds and lose d6 Wisdom. If a PC is at 0 Wisdom, they fall unconscious!)
Dali takes another step.
Denli keeps away by the door.
………….. Arkus AC 36 Dam 85
Twisted Core: Any living being within 10’ DC Will 20 or Dazed d4 rounds. Attack: Arkus’ hits affect like Woldsblood (even affecting Fixers!). Will DC 25 or Daze d4 rds + d6 temp WIS damage d4 days. Magical Chaos: random spell effects on any spell that affects a Lifewalker.
Dazed. Unable to act normally. Does not affect AC.
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
In Effect Heroism: +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+3=6 ; d4=3 ; 14d6=45 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:12:23 PM
Gaffer lets out a sigh of relief seeing Hmerring healed, and noticing Sarge's success in casting a spell on Arkus, decides to give it a go himself while waiting for his animals to do something.
----- Actions ----- Gaffer - DC 20 Will Save Autopass - Flamestrike Reflex DC 21; Damage: 45 Woolly Rhinoceros - Dazed 1/2 Elephant - Will Save 6 - Dazed 3/3 Greater Earth Elemental - Dazed 1/2
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d8=1 ; d8=2 ; d8=3 ; d8=7 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:40:08 PM
Nira takes a step back from the battle. These guys sure are having trouble landing a blow - not that she'd do any better! The best she can do now is to keep patching them up.
She delivers some healing to Sarge this time.
--------------- Free: 5ft step back to W10 Standard: Defensively cast CSW to be delivered via the Spectral Hand. Autopass concentration check. Sarge is healed for 2,3,7,13 = 25pts
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:53:15 PM
Sarge reaches out and uses her domain's Strength Surge ability on Dez. Dez's Strength d20 rolls get +5 for 1 round.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+16=27 ; d20+10=29 ; d20+10=25 ; 4d6+4=17 ; 4d6+4=21 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 12:29:24 AM
Toston having buffed Hmerrin with the fly spell last turn takes a 5 foot step and then defensively casts scorching ray against Arkus seeing as it is open season on the lifewalker.
Concentration: 27
Ray 1: 29 vs touch ; 17 fire damage Ray 2: 25 vs touch 21 fire damage
Tracking: Fly (Hmerrin) - 8 minutes 5 illusionary Tostons - Whenever you are attacked or are the target of a spell that requires an attack roll, there is a possibility that the attack targets one of your images instead. If the attack is a hit, roll randomly to see whether the selected target is real or a figment. If it is a figment, the figment is destroyed. If the attack misses by 5 or less, one of your figments is destroyed by the near miss. - 8 minutes 0/7 - 1st level spells remaining 5/7 - 2nd level spells remaining 1/6 - 3rd level spells remaining 0/3 - charges on metamagic rod remaining
The Round of Really Bad Rolls.- END COMBAT (DM SteveK) d20=7 ; d20+12=13 ; d20=1 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 2:57:22 AM
Desdichado keeps swinging away, but can't make any good hits.
Hmerrin comes to, instinctively swings, and fares no better than Desdichado.
Gaffer decides to give it a go himself. Flamestrike, and it gets through the Chaos Magic!
Nira takes a step back from the battle and defensively gives some healing to Sarge.
Sarge reaches out and uses her domain's Strength Surge ability on Dez.
OOC: Toston did NOT cast Fly on Hmerrin last round. Per DM post and emailed map, Hmerrin was completely surrounded, and Toston could not get within touching distance of the Fighter. Toston retains one 3rd level spell slot.
Toston takes a step back and casts a Scorching Ray spell. Amazingly enough, that spell also works as intended, and it is very, very easy to target Arkus using ranged Touch.
………….
The flames are too much for the LifeWalker! Arkus seems to sigh, and then begins melting, melting until there is only a hardening puddle of silvery metal on the Divination Room floor. The only thing left of the LIfewalker is the precious metal lump, the ruby gem that was his third eye… and a rod of glowing red Woldsblood.
Dali stands where she is. She sadly mentions, ”I can tell you a little about the other magical workrooms if you want. I haven’t been in them, but remember what Yarmin’s servants told me before I was trapped.”
Denli keeps by the door, amazed hero-worship on his face while watching a Large Sarge.
………….. Twisted Core: Any living being within 10’ DC Will 20 or Dazed d4 rounds. Dazed. Unable to act normally. Does not affect AC.
Tecuri Time Bubble (Yarmin’s Workshop) Effects: 1. No square/flat surfaces. Any surface is ‘down’. The center of any room is ‘zero gee’. 2. Time doesn’t move: no need to eat or breathe, or sleep. No natural healing or spell recovery. 3. Living beings can’t die; they become death/paralyzed at negative hit points.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d8=8 ; d8=5 ; d8=6 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 3:56:12 AM
Nira looks over the metallic pool and other remains of Arkus, examining them for magical auras. "Yes, Woldsblood can be very dangerous stuff. A rod exposed like that could potentially still daze people nearby."
Nira extends her hand towards the rod to see if she can still sense any power from it, though has no intention of getting anywhere near close enough to touch it. No sir-ee.
Sarge still looks a little hurt though. Nira gestures to one of her wounds. "May I?" Assuming she is given permission, Nira casts a cure spell on the oversized dwarf.
--------------- Spellcraft check to ID any magical auras: 32 (Take10) Cast CSW. Sarge is healed for 8,5,6,13 = 32 pts
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday August 5th, 2021 1:16:50 PM
Desdichado feels a sudden rush of power and suddenly...Arkus is gone.
"Alas poor Arkus, we barely knew ye," he says as he looks down at the melted remains. Turning to Dali he says, "Yes, I believe you mentioned a Necromancy room. That sounds...foreboding. Please do tell us more of what you know."
Sarge [AC 20; HP 68/132] (Kathy) d20+19=30 ; d20+19=25 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 4:44:04 PM
"We all okay?" Sarge asks. "I mean, besides me. Dez, you want me to patch up that scratch, or can you handle it?"
[OOC: I see I missed where Sarge was clobbered. Better late than never, right? She made both her Will saves.]
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday August 5th, 2021 6:57:10 PM
"Nice job, everyone!" Hmerrin enthuses. He nods to Nira. "And thank you for that. I feel much better."
The lad stows his weapons, and claps his hands a couple times.
"Right, One - who's gonna pick up the soul sucking rod of Woldsblood Core there? Two - is that ruby magical or just a really expensive rock? Three, Dali, yes, please tell us about the other magical rooms, and four - where's the door out of here, and five - can we have that necklace of yours that brings back spells?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+19=34 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 7:46:05 PM
Gaffer spends a few moments to dismiss his summons before returning focus to the party.
"I think I can hold against most of the daze effect" He offers. Gaffer will approach the rod and, if nothing to terrible happens, first pick up the ruby which he deems the safer of the two, and then attempt to pick the surely safe, glowing, red, rod.
"Before this, did I hear correctly that one room is likely broken? And might allow us to rest? Because This experience" He gestures to the now melted golem, "Has me feeling underprepared for the other rooms."
----- Will Save if Needed: 34
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Friday August 6th, 2021 1:02:08 AM
Toston says, "I guess the fire of a dragon blood is just oo much for lifewalkers to handle. Who would have thought its weakness would have been fire?"
How to Transport the Rod? (DM SteveK) Friday August 6th, 2021 4:19:26 AM
The heroes take assessment of the situation.
Gaffer picks up the Stone. Nira’s permanent Arcane Sight allows her to appraise the magic and can say it is a Gem of Seeing.
Nira and Gaffer test the effects of the Rod, (both make a Will DC 20 or be Dazed d4 rounds), and Gaffer picks it up (another WillDC 25 or Dazed d4 and Wisdom damage d6). But then something strange happens, the glowing Woldsblood stops moving and glowing. Between Nira and Toston’s knowledge of magic, it looks like as long as someone holds it, they can choose when to reveal the Woldsblood and it’s effects. The downside is someone is going to need to keep one hand on the Rod at all times.
Dali lovingly passes on her amulet with the caveat that it will only work in the Necromancy Room. ”Something happened in that room that broke the Teucri Magic in that room, which is why I think these items will break the whole Workshop.”
“Yarmin’s eight Magic Rooms correspond to the eight schools of Magic: Alteration, Divination, Invocation, Necromancy, Abjuration, Conjuration, Enchantment, and Illusion. Each room has different shapes, properties, and dangers. I don’t know specifics on what dangers, but am sure they are bound to the nature of the room.”
“You are in the Divination Room. The way to all the other rooms is the Door on the floor you came in from. If you stand with the door knob at your feet, it will take you to Illusion. Standing with the knob to your right is the Divination Room. Standing opposite the knob, the Door opens to Necromancy. Standing in other spots will open to other rooms.”
“And remember, that the Illusion Room is the Key to get to the Monster Pits.”
Sarge [AC 20; HP 68/132] (Kathy) Saturday August 7th, 2021 4:00:46 PM
"So, if I heard right, it would be safe--well, safe-ish--to rest in Necromancy?" Sarge says. "Cheery thought. Shall we?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Sunday August 8th, 2021 10:18:53 AM
"Well, Gaffer, if you have the rod, would you like to lead us to the next stop?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+19=22 ; d20+19=27 ; Sunday August 8th, 2021 6:14:11 PM
Gaffer reaches out and collects the rod with little more than a wince.
"Nira, if I shapeshifted while holding the rod, bringing it within my form, is that likely to still count as me holding it, and not kill me? I could free up my hands that way."
Gaffer stows the Gem of Seeing for the time being, unless anybody in the group calls for it, and takes out the original stone on one hand and rod in the other, before approaching the door to stand opposite the knob, and open the way to the Necromancy room.
----- Will Saves: 22 and 27, both passes.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Sunday August 8th, 2021 7:05:46 PM
Hmerrin rubs his temple, as he tries to put it altogether.
"Right, there's the Entrance, Magic Rooms, Monster Pits, and Yarmin’s Private Room. We came through the Entrance, picking up Nira and Denli.
We're in the one of the Magic Rooms, of which there are eight. The Necromancy Magic Room should be safe for us to rest, heal, and maybe get some spells back. The Illusion Magic Room has the door to the Monster Pits.
The Monster Pits has the door to Yarmin’s Private Room.
Inside Yarmin’s Private Room is the Nullifier.
We power the Nullifier with the Core and touch the Nullifier to the Time Pebble. That should destroy all three objects and let time continue as normal.
And hopefully get us out of here."
The lad opens his eyes, and lowers his hands. "Piece of cake."
He then bows to Dali. "Thank you for this."
The fighter moves with Gaffer to stand on the door opposite the knob, to go through to the Necromancy room.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+15=17 ; d4=4 ; Sunday August 8th, 2021 8:18:26 PM
Nira stares wide-eyed and in silence at the rod. Reaching out to it was obviously not a clever thing to do.
------------ Will Save vs DC20: 17=Fail. Dazed 1d4=4 rounds
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Sunday August 8th, 2021 11:41:50 PM
Toston says, "Well Evocation is kind of my specialty. I can cast fireballs and lightning bolts. If my two cents mean anything I would say we scope out Evocation."
Next Room (DM SteveK) Monday August 9th, 2021 11:45:52 AM
Most everyone wants to hit the Necromancy Room immediately, but Toston does put in a good word for Evocation. Dali corrects the gnome’s pronunciation happily, ”Its Invocation, the name of the School.”
Know Arcane DC 0. ( Modern magic the Wold over calls it the School of Evocation.) Know History DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: { Before the Third Cataclysm, the School was Invocation. Ooc: D&D 1st and 2nd edition was invocation. D&D edition 3.5 changed the name to ‘evocation’. Just a little something for the D&D nerds like your DM. :-) }
Dali nods and agrees with everything Hmerrin puts forth. Sounds right to her!
The Tide stays in the Divination Room until Nira recovers from her Daze. Gaffer considers his wild shaping: it will probably be OK, but he knows he only needs one hand free to cast spells, so can still be effective as a human too.
The Tide and Nira and Denli are ready to leave out the door. Is there anything else the heroes want to do before leaving?
Desdichado's heard of Evocation, but isn't sure what Dali is talking about. Oh well, he thinks, it's probably something for more arcane types of people to dwell on anyway.
He decides to take one more look around the room before the group leaves, just in case it looks like there might be anything worth taking with them.
(OOC: Wasn't Evocation called Invocation in earlier D&D editions? Or maybe that's what's under the spoiler, ha!)
Sarge [AC 20; HP 68/132] (Kathy) Monday August 9th, 2021 2:37:22 PM
"We might not be able to rest properly," Sarge warns the group. "I mean, time doesn't move. Hard to get a good eight hours when there's no such thing as hours. Worth a shot, though."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Monday August 9th, 2021 6:56:31 PM
"We won't know till we get there," Hmerrin shrugs in response to Sarge.
The man give Toston a look. "You REALLY wanna side trip?" he asks. "Let's see what Necromancy and Illusion have set up, then we can talk."
Just for giggles, the fighter holds up the Gem of Seeing, and scans the room.
Assuming nothing interesting happens, he's ready to go.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday August 9th, 2021 7:49:25 PM
Nira gives her head a good shake to help clear her thoughts. That rod is quite a powerful artifact.
"Invocation was what it was called some time ago. A lot of time has passed." It makes her sad to think about all the events that Dali has missed. "Are you sure you don't want to come with us Dali?". The group have just destroyed what may have been her only companion for the past who-knows-how-many years. If they fail they have left her completely alone.
Necromancy is kind of her 'thing', so she's quite happy to make it the first stop.
Knowl history vs DC20: Autopass
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Monday August 9th, 2021 11:56:00 PM
Toston says, "It is evocation not invocation but whatever I guess we are heading to the necromancy room. I do know how to cast fear and enervation so I am not a stranger to necromancy."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday August 10th, 2021 5:21:42 AM
Gaffer rarely thinks on the official schools of magic he uses, mostly whether the spell hurts something or restrains it, with the occasional other option.
It seems like the group is mostly agreed on finding out the state of the necromancy room first and Nira has recovered, so he steps forward.
Necromancy Room (DM SteveK) Tuesday August 10th, 2021 8:43:44 AM
Hmerrin can’t see anything else.
Dali prefers to stay in the Divination room to observe the passing of the Wold. She won’t willingly go with the heroes. ……..
The Tide, Nira, and Denli go to the Door, and someone stands at AL/9 to open the door. Again the white tube-like corridor, and everyone walks until there is another Door. Again, opening the Door makes everyone automatically appear in the room…
The room is bare gray, and devoid of light or color. There is a blackened mark on the floor in front of the door. Darkvision or a light source identifies curvy walls and ceiling are parabolas that don’t seem to fit right, but also don’t have any sharp edges.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 68/132] (Kathy) Tuesday August 10th, 2021 1:36:33 PM
"Well," Sarge says. "The Necromancy room is unsettling. There's a shock. Let's see if we can rest in this place."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 145/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+21=39 ; Tuesday August 10th, 2021 1:47:38 PM
"Not sure if it's even needed, but I can take first watch," says Desdichado.
During his watch, he looks around the room to see if there's anything that may be of interest. (Perception: 39)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+13=31 ; Tuesday August 10th, 2021 7:11:03 PM
"Right," Hmerrin echoes Sarge and Dez. "See if we can rest, or heal naturally, or any of that."
Dez and Toston on first watch. Then, me and Gaffer Sarge and Nira.
Denli, feel free to try and sleep or keep anyone company."
The young fighter sees if he can catch some z's.
[Perception roll during watch - 31]
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92+16Temp - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=27 ; Tuesday August 10th, 2021 7:50:23 PM
Nira steps around the dark mark on the floor and has a good look at it as she walks past.
With the group deciding to rest she takes off her pack to use as a pillow and lies down. She stares up at the weird ceiling and dwells on the events of the day. 100 years. It's hard to imagine that so much time has passed. She'd have liked to have spent more time in the divination room, if only to have scryed on her parents. Still, there will be time for a reunion when she gets out of this place.
"I wonder why it's called the necromancy room?" She looks about to see if it has any magical auras to it.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+25=37 ; Tuesday August 10th, 2021 11:42:32 PM
Toston takes a look around the necromancy room. (Perception: 37; low-light vision; blind sense) when his watch is on, then tries to take a rest when his watch isn't on as he needs to recover some spell usage.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+24=26 ; Wednesday August 11th, 2021 5:28:37 AM "I wonder quite how much time has passed in here that hasn't in the other rooms, hopefully just enough to make it safe."
Gaffer has no issues with Hmerrin's suggested watch order and quickly settles in for the firt part of his rest. ----- Perception check for watch: 26
Let’s See If We Can Rest (DM SteveK) Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:31:02 AM
The heroes explore the disturbing Necromancy Room. All curves that don’t match, but no corners is disturbing, as is that the curves all seem to come back to the Door. With a little experimenting, a 30 second walk in any direction just leads back to the door. There is nothing of other interest found.
Toston and Nira, however, find something potentially interesting: there is no magic in the room. At all. Well, except for what the Tide brought in. The dark mark seems to be a blast mark, and the two heroes conclude it must have been the explosion of an artifact…
The heroes attempt to rest. Hmerrin is first and as soon as he lays down, Dali’s amulet begins to glow. Hmerrin successfully rests! So does everyone else! However, once everyone has rested and regained spells and resting hit points once, Dali’s amulet becomes dull. Nira’s Arcane Sight sees the amulet has no more magic.
The conclusion is unmistakable. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to recover spells again until they break out of the Teucri Time Bubble. How many fights and traps are between the Tide and getting the Ultimate Nullifier? Unknown.
(It really looks like conserving spells and resources will be needed to get out…)
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday August 11th, 2021 4:05:43 PM
Before resting, Sarge heals herself up to full, and does the same for anyone else who needs it.
After resting, Sarge tweaks her spell selection a bit, asking Domi for spells better suited to the task at hand.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday August 11th, 2021 7:51:31 PM
In the "morning", Hmerrin stretches extravagantly. "That hit the spot. Now, what we're we up to? Oh yes, trapped forever in a timeless prison."
The lad address Toston. "I know you're interested in the evocation room, but I'm thinking we want to spend all our resources on getting deuce out of here. So, I vote for Illusion Room and find door to Monster Pits.
Having said that, the odds seem to be high that the door to the Monster Pits in a place called the Illusion Room might be a, you know, illusion. We got this Gem of Seeing, so I'm thinking as soon as we step through, Nira could use it to scope it out along with her other magic deducting stuff."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday August 11th, 2021 8:07:11 PM
"So far, these rooms are hard for me to tell apart" adds Desdichado. "If Nira can use that to see something we can't we might as well go for it."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+28=31 ; Wednesday August 11th, 2021 8:37:24 PM
As her watch draws to an end, Nira casts some of her daily routine spells. She knows that conservation may be key but there are some spells she just needs to have in place. Mage Armor for starters, followed by Overland Flight, Magic Vestment, Roses Temp Control and finally Tishe's Weave Elements. With the last she crafts some vests from the air itself. "There now" she dons one and looks at the remaining pile. "There are four left, if anyone wants one. They'll make you a little harder to hit*"
Nira nods to Hmerrin and Des. She's happy to follow along with whatever plan the seasoned adventurers come up with.
--------------- Tishes Weave Elements: Each Vest takes up the 'Chest' slot and provides Blur 20%. Craft check:31
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday August 12th, 2021 12:01:33 AM
Toston says "I'll take one of those air shirts."
He continues, "We can try the illusion room and the monster pits but if there is time left I'd still like to check out the invocation room at some point. I think it is possible we might find resources there we could repurpose, maybe magical weapons if the divination room had those viewing devices."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday August 12th, 2021 4:41:05 PM
Desdichado thanks Nira for the vest and prepares to enter the next room.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday August 12th, 2021 5:14:14 PM
Going into rooms filled with literally all kinds of magic has Gaffer unsure what he needs to do to prepare, but he does his best when preparing spells and gets ready for the wonderful day they have ahead.
His eyes go wide as he watches Nira's spell casting, he had never imagined using the elements in such a way to create clothing, and clothing with magical effects! He is intrigued and hurries over to inspect the result, but holds off on actually taking one as there are others more likely to be amidst the fray in combat.
"Are we ready to go then?"
Illusion Room (DM SteveK) Thursday August 12th, 2021 5:28:25 PM
Rested and refreshed, the Tide, Nira, and Denli are ready to stage a break out. Toston wants to try the illusion room and the monster pits but if there is time left I'd still like to check out the invocation room at some point. Everyone else is a for the Illusion Room. And since Dali told the team how to open the one Door to the Illusion Room, it is a piece of cake. Everyone stands about and one person in the #3 position opens the door.
White tube hallway. Everyone walks.
A Door. Someone opens.
And everyone is in another room. This one, presumably the Illusion Room, is a sphere similar to the entrance room, but composed of the soft white light like the hallway, and is only 30’ radius. There seems to be nothing else here except the heroes (and Denli) and the Door.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+13=20 ; Thursday August 12th, 2021 8:03:49 PM
Hmerrin demures on the vest. "Fraid it'll mess up my amulet," he says, pulling an amulet out from under his armor. "But, that's a mighty handy spell, I must say. Go ahead Gaffer."
Door, hall, door, small empty room.
"Uh-huh," the lad mutters in a disbelieving tone, as he looks around skeptically. "Nira, what're we in for?"
[Perception 20]
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday August 12th, 2021 8:16:17 PM
"Maybe the illusions aren't home," Sarge says,
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+21=33 ; d20+12=18 ; d20+25=35 ; Friday August 13th, 2021 1:11:31 AM
Toston casts the Detect Magic cantrip figuring if the room is illusion themed it would radiate magic.
Know[arcana]: 33 Spellcraft: 18 Perception: 35
Active Effects Detect Magic: 60 foot cone shape emanation that detects magic Air Shirt: 20% miss chance
Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Friday August 13th, 2021 3:42:29 AM
Nira is pleased that her air vests are popular. Maybe when this is all over she might be allowed to tag along with the group a little longer.
If Hmerrin gave Nira the Gem of Seeing to use, she'll take it and have a good look around. If she doesn't have the gem, she'll look around anyway and examine any magical auras she can see.
"This whole room could be covered in illusions" she says to the group "Best watch your step. This was supposed to be the room to the Monster Pits, so I wouldn't be entirely suprised if some of the floor was an illusion"
If Nira doesn't see anything out of the ordinary she will cast a Dancing Lights cantrip and send the balls of light moving about the room. She wants to test for any illusions that might be in place. If the lights vanish from sight her thinking is that they may have moved behind some sort of illusion.
--------------- Perception: 32 (Take10) + Darkvision + Arcane Sight + Lowlight Vision Spellcraft checks to ID any auras: 32 (Take10)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday August 13th, 2021 12:43:25 PM
"Another empty room?" ponders Desdichado. "Are there any magical things left in this elaborate magical maze?"
Illusion Room (DM SteveK) Friday August 13th, 2021 2:26:24 PM
The white translucent walls seem unchanged. And then…
Hmerrin lad mutters in a disbelieving tone.
Sarge suggests the illusions aren't home. The room shifts to show the halls of DeepForge clan, perfect to the day when Sarge married…
Toston casts the Detect Magic, and the room is overwhelming Magic! A couple rounds of scrutiny enables him to note the magic is Illusion.
Nira passed out her air-vests, notes the same overwhelming magical auras as Toston, and the Hem of Seeing pierces all illusions to show…. a sphere of white translucence about 30 feet radius. She mentions this is supposed to be the path to the Monster Pits, and the room swirls to show a pit of snarling monsters. Her Dancing Lights don’t reveal anything exceptional.
Desdichado ponders "Are there any magical things left in this elaborate magical maze?" To the Paladin, a series of hedgerows appear in an elaborate labyrinth!
Denli keeps behind Sarge. “So that human wizard told you how to get here. Did she also tell you how to get to the next place?” An image of Dali appears before Denli.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Saturday August 14th, 2021 11:50:51 PM
"Oh man, I shouldn't've said that," complains Desdichado as the labyrinth appears around him. "Hello? Anyone nearby?" he calls out to the others.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Sunday August 15th, 2021 8:08:49 PM
"Relax Dez, we're right beside you," Hmerrin answers, putting a hand on the paladin's shoulder.
The young man waits for Nira to find the way to go.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Sunday August 15th, 2021 8:10:02 PM "I'm fairly confident these are just illusions" Nira checks the gem again just to be sure. "Fascinating. Anything we mention appears as an illusion. I wonder if it shows things as they actually are, or as we imagine they might be? Hmm. Let's see. Hmerrin as a child" Nira of course has no idea what Hmerrin would have looked like so is curious to see whether the image is accurate or simply what she pictures.
She then starts rattling off a list of things to see what happens, pausing after each one to see the change: "Yarmin. Yarmin's Ultimate Nullifier. The Time Pebble. The abjuration room. The evocation room." she continues on listing the remaining rooms.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Sunday August 15th, 2021 11:59:19 PM
Toston says, "I'm a gnome I am supposed to have an affinity both for and against illusions. The strange thing is the illusions seem to just auto succeed, I would expect us to be able to resist them maybe disbelieve them"
He says, "What is that thing we are looking for? Do you think if you mentioned it we'd get the real version. I think I heard a story once where something like that happened only it was a mirror that did the magic."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday August 16th, 2021 10:01:41 AM
Gaffer keeps his mouth shut, keen not to create any illusions until they know a way out, but then a thought occurs and he quietly whispers, " A table of delicious food." and tries to grab himself a snack while seeing what the results of Nira's efforts are.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday August 16th, 2021 4:32:32 PM
"Hmm. General or specific, though?" Sarge asks. She experiments.
"Dwarf," she says. Then, "Denli."
"City," she says. "Dirt City. Plateau City."
She is curious whether the illusions only picture general people and places, or if they can do specific ones.
Illusion Room (DM SteveK) Monday August 16th, 2021 5:05:11 PM
The Tide, Nira, and Denli quickly determine several things. First, the illusion room creates figments, phantasms, and glammers by the spoken word. Second, the illusions are based on their own experience (Nira can have a blonde human child appear but Hmerrin knows it isn’t his likeness). Third, it appears Teucri magic rules are different than Wold magic rules, for Toston finds he doesn’t have even the opportunity to disbelieve. Fourth, they all do appear to be illusions, as Gaffer’s test on the table of food is there but only visual.
Nira’s testing of the illusion room gives a generic tall brown elf with three fingers, a super-looking rod of cancellation, Gaffer’s ForgeLord Stone, and two rooms that Nira recognizes as her student working rooms for abjuration and evocation.
Sarge can find that she can call up illusions both General and specific, as long as she has seen them before.
Toston suggests that they should ask specifically what they are looking for and maybe that will appear? Highlight to display spoiler: { (DM Post 30 July) Dali said: “ If you ask for an illusion of Yarmin’s Spiral Stair, it will appear and connect to the Monster Pits, the Spiral Maze.” }
"Worth a shot," he concedes. "Otherwise, all I can think of is crawling around to find this door by touch."
"Show us the door to the monster pits, please."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday August 16th, 2021 7:08:40 PM
"Oh, yeah, I'd forgotten about that entry way to the monster pit from here," adds Desdichado. "What was that called again? The "magical stairs" or something like that."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday August 16th, 2021 8:39:33 PM
Nira has at least a dozen other things to want to see as an illusion. It's a bit fun just saying things and seeing them appear. It's not going to help them move on though.
Desdichado gives her a reminder though. "That's right. When I asked Dali about the room she said to ask for Yarmin's Spiral Stairs. I wonder if they go up or down? From here that is."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Tuesday August 17th, 2021 12:34:08 AM
Toston says, "Illusion Room, show me Master Yarmin, then show me Yarmin's spiral stairs"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday August 17th, 2021 5:59:56 AM
Gaffer waits for the spiral stair to appear, full of excitement for a pit of monsters to be there path through.
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Tuesday August 17th, 2021 2:00:35 PM
Toston asks for a vision of Yarmin and gets an image of a tall brown elf with three fingers appearing. Most interesting, the vision is different than Nira’s vision of Yarmin. The heroes conclude the illusions are taking form from what the heroes want them to look like.
Nira then asks for Yarmin’s Spiral Stair, and something different happens. The whole globe fills with a light mist, and rising from the center is a lit white stair, done in a spiral that goes out of sight. This isn’t what anyone was expecting nor from anyone’s experience!
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Tuesday August 17th, 2021 6:17:07 PM
Sarge's brows rise. "So, is that where we're goin' next?" she asks.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday August 17th, 2021 6:39:03 PM
"Up we go?" asks Desdichado.
The young man places a foot on the stair, testing its weight. If it seems stable enough, he carefully heads up, head on a swivel. [Perception 25]
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=32 ; Tuesday August 17th, 2021 11:33:15 PM
Nira would like to stay and play with the illusions for a little while, but nods as the others move towards the stairs.
She'll follow along in whatever position the group place her. Probably nearer the middle or back. She's certainly not one of the heavily armored guys that Hmerrin mentioned.
Perception: 32
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+25=38 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 1:59:44 AM
(Perception: 38)
Toston takes up a position near the middle of the pack.
Effects: Low Light Vision Blindsense 30 ft
It's hard to believe such a calamity!
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Wednesday August 18th, 2021 12:22:53 PM
Our heroes walk up the stairs until the Illusion Room is lost from view. In time, the steps end and they are again walking the middle of a white rounded corridor, 20’ in diameter. It also turns so they can never see more than 50 feet ahead or behind. It is difficult to even determine if the turns are up, down, left or right, and impossible to identify the overall direction of travel. Even the concept of north, south, east, and west is meaningless here!
Soon, the spiraling corridor becomes not all white, but a series of endless doors. There appear to be markings on and near each door.
…… Each Hero receives 35,000xp for passing through the Magic Workshops!
One Hero Point to Gaffer for holding the Twisted Core!
Desdichado spends time looking at the markings on some of the doors, to see if it looks like a language, or maybe symbols that can be interpreted.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) d20+6=23 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 2:26:10 PM
Sarge snorts a little at Hmerrin's joke. "You're not that smelly," she assures him.
As she climbs the staircase, she looks around, but leaves the heavy thinking to the heavy thinkers.
[Perception 23]
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday August 18th, 2021 3:18:00 PM
Gaffer stands back with Sarge, letting the others figure out the doors and wonders aloud, "Why are the passageways so long if the space is all so warped and false? Seems like extra effort for everyone involved..."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday August 18th, 2021 7:14:54 PM
"Right," Hmerrin observes sourly. "She did say Spiral Maze."
The man looks at the markings on the door. "Anybody remember if Dali said anything about how to find Yarmin's Private Room?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+9=28 ; d20+13=14 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 9:02:27 PM "She did say that it would connect to a Spiral Maze. This is probably it."
Just in case this is a maze, Nira casts an Arcane Mark spell to leave an arrow on the floor pointing in whichever direction the group decide to go.
----------- Raw Int check to see if there is a pattern to the markings: 28 Knowl checks: 31 (Take10) to try and understand the markings Linguistics: 14
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+21=27 ; d12=11 ; d20+25=32 ; Thursday August 19th, 2021 1:01:06 AM
Toston takes a very detailed look around, trying to get a feel for the place.
(Perception: 32) (Know[Arcana]: 27)
Effects: Low Light Vision Blindsense 30 feet
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Thursday August 19th, 2021 1:46:38 PM
Anybody remember if Dali said anything about how to find Yarmin's Private Room? No, no she didn’t. And as the heroes begin looking around, they again discover some things..
They have gone through another One Way Door. There is no door or stairs behind the heroes, just an endless series of corridor and doors in the walls. Occasionally, there is a window rather than a door. Peering out, the heroes can see (Ooc: image in email).
Between many (but not all) of the doors are etched words in the Common Tongue, all are in a style so neat and meticulous that it could have been produced by a printing press. Most of these are notes for experiments that are in a short-hand style so much that it doesn’t provide any knowledge benefit to the heroes. Just opposite the way in, this note looks like an introduction welcoming Yarmin’s newest assistants. They were selected for their expertise in varied areas, and ends with a stern reminder that they can use the facilities to conduct any experiments that they want, as long as Yarmin’s experiments take first priority.
Mayb
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday August 19th, 2021 5:01:19 PM
Sarge takes a look at the note welcoming new assistants. "Don't suppose he left a map for them," she mutters.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday August 19th, 2021 6:29:34 PM
"Experiments," muses Desdichado, "I don't like the sound of that." He decides to take a look around the room and Detect Evil, just in case (assuming there are tables with the experiments set up in this room).
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday August 19th, 2021 7:37:21 PM
"Pretty sure randomly opening doors is gonna make for a very, very, long day," Hmerrin mutters.
"Anybody got one of them divination spells that might point the way?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Friday August 20th, 2021 12:49:29 AM
Toston says, "My spell selection is rather limited. Divination isn't really my thing. Sarge, Des, Gaffer, Nira? you guys have any divination abilities?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Friday August 20th, 2021 7:29:03 AM
"My divination options are only a few, and I didn't prepare any unfortunately. Well, if time isn't passing, it can only take both forever and no time at all, so we could open doors one by one?" Gaffer can't convince himself this is a good option, but isn't sure what else they are too do.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Saturday August 21st, 2021 12:04:12 AM
"I don't have anything prepared, but I can ask Domi for one if you give me a few minutes," Sarge says.
[OOC: Sarge has open spell slots she can fill.]
"So, what do we want? I can't quite do that Finding the Path thing, and Commune is only yes/no questions. Divination? That might give us a clue, and then we can use Commune to clarify things if we need to. What do you think?"
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Saturday August 21st, 2021 11:16:04 AM
Ooc: travelling. Will be back inGermany and normal Posting on Monday.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Saturday August 21st, 2021 10:47:11 PM "I've got some divination and scrying spells. Find the Path would have been the perfect spell. Had the doors been open I could have sent some Prying Eyes about" Nira's selection of divination spells is quite limited.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Sunday August 22nd, 2021 1:34:35 AM
"Eh, I'm not much of one for Divination, unless you want to know if someone is lying," says the paladin.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Sunday August 22nd, 2021 11:26:44 PM
Toston says to Dez, "Can't you detect evil? This is a monster lab right? Presumably some of the monsters are evil. Maybe you could figure out where not to go?"
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Monday August 23rd, 2021 6:05:31 AM
The heroes assess their current situation. They are in a 20 foot diameter tube-like corridor, gently lit by the softly glowing white surface. Because of the Teucri environment, every surface is ‘floor’. In no discernable pattern, there are doors along the tube, each one has a diagram on the door. Every so often, there is writing on the walls.
Sarge takes a look at the note welcoming new assistants. "Don't suppose he left a map for them," she mutters. She looks around. There doesn’t seem to be a map here, but the dwarf asks a good question: how DID the assistants find things…
Desdichado doesn’t like the sound of ‘experiments’. He looks around with Detect Evil, just in case, but nothing radiates as an evil alignment.
Hmerrin doesn’t want to randomly open doors and asks for ideas to make this easier.
Toston has a ‘no’ for divination, but looks to the other spellcasters.
Gaffer also doesn’t have useful divination spells, but suggests even an infinity of doors, given an infinity of time, shouldn’t be a problem?
Sarge was wise enough to keep open spell slots for flexibility. She could divine as a possibility…
Nira also has some divination and scrying spells and talks to her new allies on the capabilities.
Toston considers that Dez may be able to use Detect Evil to figure out where NOT to go.
………….. The heroes have the initiative.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday August 23rd, 2021 3:11:36 PM
"Right," Sarge says. "Well, I'll start chatting with Domi about that Divination spell, and you guys can interrupt me if we decide we're not doing that."
Sarge begins the meditation she needs to add Divination to her available spells.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday August 23rd, 2021 4:24:32 PM
"Hey, does Hmerrin still have that Gem of Seeing? Maybe that will show us something interesting."
The lad looks over several doors and the writing between to try a discern a pattern there. [INT check 12, if useful] While looking them over, he answers Gaffer. "Remember that centaur. If we take forever finding the way out, we'll all be dust the second we leave."
To Sarge he throws out a suggestion. "Maybe ask if the way out is to the right, or within 200 feet of us, or something like that to at least eliminate doors."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday August 23rd, 2021 8:20:36 PM
Gaffer is somewhat crestfallen at Hmerrin's reminder, and does his best impression of a thinker while waiting for Sarge to change her spells.
"Erm, just in case... Show me, the monster pits please doors. Or the way out." Gaffer speaks aloud and then waits, with little hope, but it occurs to him that the original users of this place would also not wish to turn to dust, or walk indefinitely, and it worked for the illusion room right.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+21=37 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+25=34 ; Tuesday August 24th, 2021 12:28:34 AM
Toston carefully observes his surroundings (Perception: 34)
He then thinks back to his knowledge of the arcane (know[arcana]: 37) and his skills with spellcraft (spellcraft 25) to try to figure out if he can glean anything further from the hallway they find themselves in.
The Spiral Stair (DM SteveK) Tuesday August 24th, 2021 8:14:21 AM
Sarge begins the meditation she needs to add Divination to her available spells. It takes 15 minutes for Sarge to meditate for a Divination spell. This isn’t really noted in the passing of time, but just the fact Sarge started, and now she is finished. And some of the other heroes have used the time to get more information too
Desdichado suggests the Gem of Seeing. Nira has it, but using the Gem does not reveal anything that can already be seen.
Hmerrin looks over several doors and the writing between to try a discern a pattern there. Wandering down the halls a bit, the young man found another note that doesn’t match a particular door. This note appears to be a poem, Yarmin is lamenting the sundering of the Teucri civilization and the loss of his beautiful home in Jericho Space. It ends with … “I MUST find a solution!”
Gaffer speaks aloud and then waits. Maybe the Doors will provide a clue like the Illusion room! The Doors don’t do anything, but his Stone of the Forge Lord begins to pulse! A little further experimenting, and Gaffer sees his Stone pulses faster when he walks down the corridor.
Toston carefully observes his surroundings and considers his arcane knowledge to glean any further information. The idea comes to the gnome that this corridor is infinite, and each door goes to a different ‘pocket plane’ that can hold an experiment, probably containing monster or monsters. One Door, however, must lead to Yarmin’s ‘inner sanctum’, where the Ultimate Nullifier should be.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Tuesday August 24th, 2021 1:52:54 PM
"Okay, got it," Sarge says when she finishes prepping for the spell. "What, exactly, do we wanna ask? 'Cause we kind of have to be exact, and there's no guarantee the answer will make a lick of sense. I'm thinking 'how do we find Yarmin's inner sanctum?' but maybe there's a better way to put it."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Tuesday August 24th, 2021 6:39:49 PM
"Hold that thought, Sarge," Hmerrin answers, raising a hand. "I got another note written by Yarmin here, and I'm thinking if the guy likes writing on walls, he'd probably do so between the way in and his office. Bunch of experiment doors,sure. But, he's the boss. He's gonna use whichever ones are easiest for him, and make the students run off for the far doors."
"Let's go this way a while, and see if we can find some more Yarmin notes. We can save that spell for a little later."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday August 24th, 2021 6:55:57 PM
"Wow, that Teucri poetry is just as weird as their architecture," says Desdichado. Considering their options, he agrees with following Gaffer's flashing light down the hall in hopes of it leading to the correct passage.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday August 24th, 2021 8:43:22 PM
Nira makes sure her arcane mark is still visible before the group begins walking. She's tempted to just open every door that the party come across but without more information about them such a thing might be a little dangerous.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday August 24th, 2021 9:41:33 PM
Excited, but unsure how far it will go, Gaffer starts walking forwards and watches his Stone to see just how frequent the pulses become. If at any point the pulses start to slow, he stops and takes in the doors.in the surroundings. He does look behind him every now and then, making sure the others are still in sight.
Toston. (Sub by SteveK) Wednesday August 25th, 2021 2:31:44 AM
Toston relays the information he deduced and nods. ”Between the Gem of Seeing, following Yarmin’s written comments, Dez’ Detect Evil, and Gaffer’s Stone, we should be able to find the door without experimentation!”
Moving through the Spiral Maze (SteveK) Wednesday August 25th, 2021 6:51:13 AM
The Tide follow the vibrating Stone and look for more notes of things not dealing with experiments.
Gaffer soon finds the Stone pulses faster, not really noticeable at first but slowly over time. As he continues to walk, he also begins to feel it pull in his hands.
The Tide walks until the vibrations make Gaffer’s hand throb and the pulling leads to a door indistinguishable from any of the others: but the Stone seems to know where it wants to go!
There are no experiment notes by this Door. Instead, the note is in a different handwriting: not blocky and neat, but a flowing script that seems hastily written.
“Yarmin, experiment XM413P is successful, and my team was able to measure time passed in the Wold while in the Time Bubble. Unfortunately, it shows you have been gone for 538 years, 9 months, and 13 days; or 1300.43% longer than any previous time you have been gone. My team is despondent, and Toril is complaining about all the beer he hasn’t been able to drink. We are taking the Nullifier to experiment BZ923A and will use it in the Pit to break the Time Bubble and escape. Circe’ the Black”
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday August 25th, 2021 1:09:54 PM
"Well, that looks promising," Sarge says. "Should we try it?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday August 25th, 2021 5:00:33 PM
"I knew those "experiments" sounded like bad news!" exclaims Desdichado. "So, we need to find this experiment BZ9...whatever it was. I don't suppose they are conveniently labelled for us, are they?"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday August 25th, 2021 7:23:19 PM
"I say we try this door first," Hmerrin answers Dez. "Hopefully, it his office. And just maybe the Nullifier is still in there. Or a map. Or something helpful."
The fighter cricks his neck, left and right.
"Any other ideas?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday August 26th, 2021 2:49:49 AM "With so much time passing it makes me wonder how old Yarmin might actually be and what the Wold was like when he first created this place. I imagine a lot of historians would like the chance to spend some time with him"
Nira takes a step back from the door to allow the others clear access to it.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday August 26th, 2021 3:35:00 AM
Toston says, "Let's try this door first and see what Gaffer's vibrations have lead us to."
Moving through the Spiral Maze (SteveK) Thursday August 26th, 2021 5:17:31 AM
Sarge, Hmerrin, and Toston want to try the Door where Gaffer’s Stone led.
A look around the door reveals this door is BZ923A.
A look on the door reveals no keyholes, latches, or any indention.
…..
The heroes have the initiative
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday August 26th, 2021 5:51:04 PM
"BZ923A," Sarge reads aloud. "That's the experiment mentioned in the note. I'd say we're on the right track."
She frowns at the door. "So how d'you open this thing?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+23=32 ; d20+18=33 ; d20+13=24 ; d12+5=14 ; d12+5=16 ; d12+5=8 ; Thursday August 26th, 2021 6:55:37 PM
Desdichado pulls out his greataxe. "Well, if we can't figure it out, there's always smashing!" (He'll only attempt to break it down if no one has other ideas.)
32 to hit door; 14 damage 33 to hit door; 16 damage 24 to hit door; 8 damage
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday August 26th, 2021 7:20:42 PM
If Dez isn't getting anywhere, Hmerrin turns to Gaffer.
"Wanna see what that stone of yours might do?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday August 26th, 2021 8:50:14 PM
Before Desdichado goes all lumberjack on the door, Nira tries a simpler approach first. Just in case. She pushes against the door to see if it is locked.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Friday August 27th, 2021 1:02:20 AM
Toston says, "Anyone have a knock spell? I don't, sadly but maybe one of you does?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Friday August 27th, 2021 11:18:12 AM
Nira's approach seems like a good start, if there is no joy there Gaffer is of the same mind as Hmerrin and will try and step in before Des starts smashing to give a quick once over. He glances over the door for any handles, or holes that the stone might fit in. Otherwise he'll attempt to push the stone into the center of the door and see if there's any reaction. If he has no luck he will step back
Door BZ923A (SteveK) Friday August 27th, 2021 4:09:11 PM
Pushing on the door doesn’t work, but putting the Stone on the door and it opens right up!
The door reveals only a fuzzy, translucent white-blackness.
The fuzzy, translucent white-blackness may make some uneasy, but Toston and Nira have heard of it before: it is the stable border between two planes.. (Ooc: auto pass Know Arcana). What they also know is once they pass, there may not be any way back. Or it may be easily passed through again and again. Just don’t know!
The heroes have the initiative.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Friday August 27th, 2021 11:22:33 PM
"So, we think that Nullifier gizmo is in here?" Sarge says.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Saturday August 28th, 2021 2:45:12 AM
Nira pokes her head over Gaffer's shoulder to get a better look. "So that looks like the entry to another plane. No telling if anyone would be able to pass back through or not, or even what's on the other side."
She contemplates Sarge's question. "Well, the note did say they were bringing it to this room and would use it in the pit."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Saturday August 28th, 2021 5:12:38 PM
"I can try to pass through first, and if I don't return by a count of...let's say 100...you all can assume I'm not able to return," declares the paladin. "Otherwise, I'll attempt to return by a count of 20 and let you know what's on the other side."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday August 29th, 2021 9:38:23 PM
Gaffer isn't so keen on sending just one of them ahead, especially as the only known way out is through that door regardless of what's behind. "I vote we all go through together. If whatever is inside is deadly, better we are deal with it together, than lose one of us first."
Depending on the groups reaction to that, he will follow after Des as they step other the threshold.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Monday August 30th, 2021 12:19:10 AM
Toston says, "Should we try to send something through first and see if it can't get back to us? IDK does anyone have a calling spell? If we summon something to do a service for it and the service is to go through the portal and come back if it can't come back wouldn't we have our answer. Of course we'd have to pay it but is it worth it?"
Door BZ923A (SteveK) Monday August 30th, 2021 10:49:33 AM
Discussions begin on how to go through the Door.
The heroes have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Monday August 30th, 2021 6:57:20 PM
Hmerrin sighs, and shakes his head.
"Place is nothing but portals. Only one sure way to find out, boys and girls."
The fighter steps through the door.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday August 30th, 2021 7:24:55 PM
"Well, I guess that settles it," Sarge says, and steps after Hmerrin.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday August 30th, 2021 10:00:03 PM
Gaffer follows through the door, finding it oddly calming handing his fate over to the unknown... Or not, monster pits rings out in his mind, this won't be good.
This room is the Pits. (SteveK) Tuesday August 31st, 2021 12:22:23 AM
The heroes (and Denli) bravely step through the Door…
…and find themselves on a 3’ wide ledge surrounding a 15’ diameter hole that descends down into darkness…
Gaffer finds the Stone is still vibrating and trying to pull Gaffer into the Pit.
The walls here are a dead gray, similar to the Necromancy Room. It looks like the heroes will have to produce thier own light.
I've given up hope for a bottle of cold brew
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+25=39 ; Tuesday August 31st, 2021 12:27:54 AM
Toston casts light the 0th level cantrip on his meta magic rod
Perception: 39; has low light vision
Passive Effect: Blindsense 30 feet
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=28 ; Tuesday August 31st, 2021 3:47:43 AM
Nira holds still while those ahead of her decide what to do. She casts a Dancing Lights spell to conjure up four glowing spheres of light. She peers down the pit and sends the lights floating 100ft down it.
"Anyone see a safe way down? Well... other than the obvious" She feels quietly confident that she could safely fly down the hole, but she isn't sure about the rest of the group.
------------ Cast Dancing Lights and have them travel up to 100ft downwards.
Perception: 28
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Blur (20%)... Darkvision... Low-Light Vision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... Roses Temperature Control... See Invisibility... Resist Fire (5)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday August 31st, 2021 12:18:41 PM
"Let's see, we've got a dark pit, assumingly full of monsters, and Gaffer's stone is telling us to go down there. What could go wrong?"
Once there's enough light to see - and depending on what they actually do see! - Desdichado prepares to jump down and face some horrible beasts.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday August 31st, 2021 7:15:27 PM
"I could take us down one by one as an air elemental if need be, but let's make sure to clear up any monsters we can before going down." Gaffer suggests, and waits to see what the two light spells reveal.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Tuesday August 31st, 2021 7:21:55 PM
Hmerrin glances cautiously over the edge, trying to gauge distance.
Once everyone has their various light sources up, he eyes Gaffer's stone suspiciously. "Almost like it wants to jump."
An idea breaks over the young man's face, and he fetches out a small matchbox from his haversack. A worn bow, once bright blue, but now faded, is tied around it.
Hmerrin unties the bow, opens the box, pulls out a small mouse. "Gravity check, Mr. Jingles," he tells the mouse, and tosses it into the void. The man watches with interest to see what happens.
----------- I've always wondered if I'd ever actually use this - Yule present 12/7/2017 - A mouse named "Mr Jingles" that lives in a small match box. Doesn't matter how many times the mouse might be killed, it reappears alive in the box the next day.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Tuesday August 31st, 2021 10:35:15 PM
Sarge peers into the pit. "Hey, if somebody had one of those Feather Falling deals, we could just jump," she says.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Wednesday September 1st, 2021 1:03:46 AM
Toston says, "I got a ring of feather falling. It comes in handy when you got wings and you never know if someone will knock you out mid flight. I don't know if I want to volunteer to fall down there though."
This room is the Pits. (SteveK) Wednesday September 1st, 2021 10:46:01 AM
Toston and Nira make light, on Rod and Dancing respectively. Sending the Dancing Lights downward, they go nearly to the limit of their range, and then… are swallowed in darkness! A little experimenting reveals there is a Permanent Darkness spell effect 100’ down the Pit.
Desdichado prepares to jump down and face some horrible beasts.
Gaffer suggests to become an air elemental and ferry people down, but waits to see what the two light spells reveal.
Hmerrin breaks out an old Yuletide present and tells the mouse inside "Gravity check, Mr. Jingles!", and tosses the mouse into the void. He squeaks his opinion until swallowed by the Darkness and suddenly the noise is also cut off. Mr. Jingles does not reappear in the matchbox even after a long count of 100.
Sarge peers into the pit. "Hey, if somebody had one of those Feather Falling deals, we could just jump," she says.
……………..
The dead gray walls provide no clues.
The heroes have the initiative.
[OOC: The heroes successfully pierced the Spiral Maze without fighting any of the monsters the DM so laboriously created. Everyone gets 15,000xp!! ]
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday September 1st, 2021 5:00:02 PM
"Well, unless someone has a better solution, I'm about to suggest one of my all time top three, at least, bad ideas: we jump," says Desdichado.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday September 1st, 2021 8:39:49 PM
"I'm with Dez. The mouse isn't dead, so good odds it went through another portal."
Hmerrin looks around for a good spot for a grappling hook. "Option 2 is I got 100' of rope. We climb down and see if there is anything obvious at the Darkness spell."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 1st, 2021 10:06:40 PM "Well, I do have a Feather Fall spell prepared. I can affect all of us so that we fall at a rate of around 10ft per second. It would last long enough for everyone to fall about 720ft. If we're still falling after that period of time I can cast once more, but that would probably be about it"
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday September 1st, 2021 11:51:04 PM
Sarge nods to Nira. "I think that's our solution," she says. "I mean, yeah, the mouse seems to have survived, but I'm just a tad heavier than a mouse and will fall a lot harder."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Thursday September 2nd, 2021 12:34:13 AM
Toston says "As I said I've got my ring so I'm covererded I might do a controlled descent with my wings so that if I need to gain altitude for whatever reason I could."
This room is the Pits. (SteveK) Thursday September 2nd, 2021 7:18:35 AM
Desdichado suggests one of his all-time bad ideas: we jump.
Hmerrin agrees with Dez. After all, the mouse isn’t dead. Option 2 is … how much rope we got?
Nira does have a Feather Fall prepared to affect all of the team and Denli.
Sarge sees Nira’s magic as the solution.
Toston agrees, and mentions he not only has his Ring, but wings, and so can do a controlled descent or gain altitude with his wings, if they are less that a 15’ wingspan. (ooc: Pit is 15’ diameter. Toston can use wings if wingspan is less than 15’ using Fly DC 15 per round to go vertical down or up.)
……………..
The dead gray walls provide no answer.
The heroes have the initiative.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday September 2nd, 2021 8:23:08 AM
Gaffer teeters on the edge, ready to jump on Nira's command.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday September 2nd, 2021 4:24:01 PM
Once they've all been hit with the appropriate magic, Desdichado jumps down.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday September 2nd, 2021 7:34:59 PM
Casting Feather Fall on people other than herself is something new to Nira. She's not entirely sure if it will work before the group jump, or, whether they need to be in the air when she casts it. If the latter she will ready the spell and then give a "1..2..3..Jump!" call to make sure they all stick together as a group
She takes the necessary steps and then casts the spell.
----------------- Ready action to cast Feather Fall when everyone is in the air
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday September 2nd, 2021 11:16:01 PM
Sarge jumps on cue, sending up a quick prayer to Domi that this cockamamie scheme actually comes off.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+18=26 ; Friday September 3rd, 2021 5:16:15 AM
(OOC: I've seen nothing that mentions the wing span of a dragon disciple)
If Toston's wingspan is less than 15 feet he grows his wings and does a controlled descent. If his wingspan is greater than 15 feet he casts fly on himself and does a controlled descent.
Either way the gnome is flying down.
Fly check: 26 if using wings; 30 if using spell
(DM SteveK. Neither have I. I was hoping you would be more knowledgeable than I on this. :-). So, since there isn’t a definitive ‘no’, I’ll call it a ‘yes’. Toston can fly down.)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Friday September 3rd, 2021 9:44:43 AM
Hmerrin actually giggles as he launches himself into thin air.
We’re Freeeeeee… Free Falling (SteveK) Friday September 3rd, 2021 11:02:52 AM
Everyone jumps, Hmerrin giggling and Sarge grumbling, and Nira casts the Featherfall spell that only works on freefalling objects. It works! And Toston comes down more controlled on his wings, auto passing a vertical flying check.
100 feet. They enter the magical Darkness and the team discovers there is also a permanent Silence. Toston can’t see the others, but can gauge their steady descent, and so don’t has any trouble bumping into anyone and making flying more difficult.
200 feet. The Darkness ends, the Silence ends, the FeatherFall ends! In fact every non-permanent spell on the Tide and Denli is dispelled. (Spells with permancy are unaffected). Toston, with his wings is also unaffected. There is a jostle and pop, then an endless moment of no movement. Then heroes (other than Toston) begin to plummet!
……….
Next Post only Free, Swift, or Immediate actions allowed.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Friday September 3rd, 2021 10:10:03 PM
As a free action, Sarge considers her life choices. As a swift action, she consigns her soul to Domi.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Saturday September 4th, 2021 5:11:33 PM
Right now Desdichado is thinking that this was indeed a pretty bad idea.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Sunday September 5th, 2021 1:21:03 AM "Well that wasn't good" says Nira, often one to state the obvious. She recasts the Feather Fall spell to try and slow the descent again.
-------------- Use Wiz Bonded Item to cast Feather Fall as an immediate action
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday September 5th, 2021 12:03:03 PM
Gaffer goes through waves of emotion, the calm initial descent, the anticipation of silence and darkness, the panic of sudden, real, free fall and calm once more as feather fall takes hold once more.
"Good catch" He smiles at Nira before looking below to see where they are headed.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 Sunday September 5th, 2021 10:58:19 PM
Toston is holding his quickened metamagic rod. Unfortunately he doesn't have feather fall on his spell list anymore and he isn't in range of being able to touch any of the rest of his friends.
Toston prepares himself to swoop down and start casting fly on his friends.
The Black Room(SteveK) Monday September 6th, 2021 1:19:34 AM
The spells fail, but Nira catches everyone in another Feather Fall, and the Tide flows down together.
The shaft is 300’ down, and then falls another 100’ to the floor of a 200’ diameter hemispherical room.
When the heroes get to the bottom, they have to recast their light Cantrips. None of the re-cast light sources of Light and Dancing Lights reach to the walls. Nor does Darkvision. But the heroes know they are there.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Monday September 6th, 2021 7:14:27 PM
Hmerrin takes a moment to rest both palms on solid floor, and get his stomach back down to where its supposed to be.
"Let's not do that again," he chokes out.
Looking about with his Darkvision, he sees nothing.
"Terrific. Anybody see a Nullifier? Gaffer? That stone telling you anything?"
The fighter takes a few steps in one direction, while keeping an eye on his comrades. Is something dampening his darkvision, or are the walls just that far away?
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday September 6th, 2021 8:16:58 PM
Desdichado is in a similar situation to Hmerrin as he looks about, the power of his own Stone of the Forge Lord providing a dark vision that seems no more helpful than his standard vision at the moment.
"Are we...cough...are we still in the Teucri time bubble? And if not, I wonder how much time has passed for us."
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday September 6th, 2021 9:27:12 PM
"We may need a more powerful light spell," Sarge says. "Anybody have a Daylight handy? I can get one, if you give me a bit."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday September 6th, 2021 9:51:39 PM
Gaffer feels a little more comfortable with the falling than the others seem to, but he thinks they are on the same level about the eerily dark and large room. He holds up his Stone of the Forge Lord to see if there are any further reactions, it has led them well so far.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday September 6th, 2021 10:41:06 PM
Nira gracefully touches down, happy that the falling is over.
"I've got a Daylight spell. Just give me a sec. I'm pretty exposed without some of my spells in place"
She can't see any immediate signs of danger but bolsters her defenses in anticipation.
---------------- Cast Mage Armor
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+25=44 ; Tuesday September 7th, 2021 1:54:10 AM
Perception: 44
While waiting for the daylight spell to be cast Toston falls silent and focuses on listening in the darkness.
(OOC: remember Toston has blindsense 30 feet)
The Black Room(SteveK) Tuesday September 7th, 2021 1:57:46 AM
The heroes touch down, and Toston can hover or land as he wishes.
The heroes can see with their Darkvision, the walls (and ceiling) are just further than 60 feet. Toston’s blindsense can only see the Tide and Denli.
Gaffer’s Stone is now mute.
Everyone with their Darkvision can see a blasted area on the floor only 10’ away. It looks like nearly a perfect scorching of the floor material, maybe a little longer to the left.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+13=17 ; Tuesday September 7th, 2021 9:28:25 PM
"The old workshop seems to be missing all the shoppy parts," Hmerrin observes dryly.
While the others prepare, he walks to a wall, and starts tracing a path to his right, looking for, well, anything. [Perception 17]
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- d20+21=31 ; Tuesday September 7th, 2021 11:57:39 PM
Dez takes a look around the scorched area as well.
Perception 31
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+25=39 ; d20+18=25 ; Wednesday September 8th, 2021 1:25:39 AM
Hearing about the sad state of affairs of the workshop Toston continues to listen and hover.
Perception: 39 Fly: 25
Want Beer (SteveK) Wednesday September 8th, 2021 1:53:29 AM
Walking towards the walls, Hmerrin can see the room is like a cylinder: linear floor, straight walls going up, but curving to the left and right. That is unusual since this is nearly the first straight line the heroes have encountered in this place! The other unusual thing is the walls seem to be covered, floor-to-ceiling, in a muted rainbow curtain.
Desdichado looks at the blast mark, but that’s the only obvious thing he can see. (Ooc: maybe some skills checks can see more.)
Toston observes and continues to hover about 20’ off the floor. He hears whispers. ‘Hssss!’ ‘Alive’ ‘hate them!’ and ‘Want beer!’
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 8th, 2021 3:24:03 AM
Nira keeps buffing herself, this time with a magic vestment spell.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday September 8th, 2021 2:57:27 PM
Desdichado doesn't think he has any skills that would be useful for examining the scorch mark, so he walks over to a wall and attempts to lift back a curtain.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) d20+7=17 ; Wednesday September 8th, 2021 3:22:48 PM
Sarge walks over to examine the scorched area. [Knowledge Engineering 17]
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+24=33 ; Wednesday September 8th, 2021 5:10:45 PM
Gaffer keeps an eye on Des as he lifts the curtain. Thoroughly expecting monsters to be waiting behind it, but also very curious as to why it is there. (Perception: 33)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday September 8th, 2021 8:22:37 PM
Hmerrin was also planning to move a curtain, and so he assists Dez.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:33/25/25 - CMD 35 d20+18=32 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+25=29 ; d20+18=25 ; Wednesday September 8th, 2021 11:14:03 PM
Toston says, "I hear the words 'alive,' 'hate them' and 'want beer.'
He says to his friends, "Anyone have detect undead?"
Want Beer (SteveK) Thursday September 9th, 2021 2:26:42 AM
Nira rebuilds her protections.
Desdichado and Hmerrin try to lift or push the curtain while Gaffer looks on for backup, but they discover thier hands pass right through it. The curtain is an illusion! Try as they will, it doesn’t disappear when they try to disbelieve.
Sarge has some knowledge of engineering and can tell there was an object centered in the blast area. The oblong part of the blast tells her that there was at least something left of it, and it would have been projected up and slightly to the left at great speed.
Toston informs the others they are probably not alone. He can’t recall any form of undead that particularly like beer, but can recall most intelligent undead retain at least a little memory of their past life. He continues to hover at 20’ above the floor and hears multiple whispers. “Kill”. “Hate” “Beer?”
….. The heroes have the initiative
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday September 9th, 2021 2:54:37 PM
"Huh, I guess somebody didn't like the look of these walls," muses Desdichado. Then, to Toston he adds, "Someone -- er, thing -- wants beer? I don't have any with me."
Wary of the notion of something undead nearby, Desdichado tilts his head back and looks up and around the room near where he heard Toston's voice. He tries to see if he can Detect Evil creatures nearby.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday September 9th, 2021 6:32:42 PM
"Could be the illusion is covering an exit," Hmerrin answers Dez. "While we're looking for beer, I'm going take a walk and see if we got an opening.
The man starts walking counter-clockwise (so that he's going toward the 'slightly left' direction first), dragging his fingers along the wall as he goes.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday September 9th, 2021 8:18:41 PM
Gaffer waits in the very center of the room, away from any walls and continues to keep an eye on Hmerrin incase he should disappear into the wall at any point.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday September 9th, 2021 9:06:58 PM "Did you want to use that gem again?" Nira asks, holding out the Gem of Seeing. It isn't hers and she doesn't want to be so presumptuous as to use it herself without asking or offering to someone else first.
She casts a final buff spell - another magic vestment.
As for the whispers... "Zombie dwarf perhaps?"
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday September 9th, 2021 11:21:44 PM
"So...." Sarge turns in a circle, looking at the blast area. "So this explosion, whatever it was, launched something." She gestures. "That way."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:37/25/29 - CMD 35 d20+18=37 ; Friday September 10th, 2021 1:02:05 AM
Toston continues to hover and this time casts a mage armor
Fly: 37
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet
Want Beer (SteveK) Friday September 10th, 2021 3:24:57 PM
Hmerrin runs his hands on the wall behind the illusory curtain. He doesn’t find any exit, but he is fairly sure there is more writing carved into the wall hidden by the illusionary curtains
Sarge provides her information, and points towards the ceiling where Toston is certain is where the whispers are coming from…
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Friday September 10th, 2021 10:42:51 PM
Sarge finally catches up with the conversation. "I don't have the Detect Undead spell prepared," she says. "I could get it, though, if we want it. Or I could just channel energy and see if anything yells."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Saturday September 11th, 2021 9:44:20 PM
Unless anyone objects or would rather do it themselves, Nira will use the gem of seeing to reveal what is hiding behind the illusory curtains.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 152/152; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Sunday September 12th, 2021 12:14:45 AM
"Go for it, Nira," says Desdichado, "let us know if you find anything."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday September 12th, 2021 3:28:19 PM "Gem of seeing first, Nira use it as you see fit, and channel energy as our go to second?"
Gaffer sits tight and waits to see who is keeping them company.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Sunday September 12th, 2021 3:33:24 PM
"Seems like a plan," Hmerrin echoes Gaffer.
"Nira, I've got a grappling hook and some rope. If there's something to snag up there, let us know please."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:37/25/29 - CMD 35 Monday September 13th, 2021 1:18:46 AM
Toston whispers, "Should I fireball the ceiling?"
Attack! Rd 1 (SteveK) Monday September 13th, 2021 6:27:50 AM
Sarge doesn’t have Detect Undead spell prepared, but she could get it.
Nira proposes to use the gem of seeing to reveal what is hiding behind the illusory curtains. Desdichado Gaffer, and Hmerrin agrees.
And Nira uses the Gem of True Seeing. She is immediately struck by the utter chaos of alien writing! Make DC 25 Will save or be afflicted by as by the Insanity spell for d6 rounds! (ooc: Once a save is made, that individual need not save again.) Highlight to display spoiler: { Strange sigils and glyphs decorate the walls, and among the symbols are carvings of coils and knots, interspersed by occasional eyes, mouths, and some elongated faces. Are they coils, tentacles, serpentine bodies, or sinuously long limbs? It’s hard to tell as they blend one into another. Also, woven throughout the carvings on the walls are ancient Tecuri runes. Closer to the floor are writing that is done in a different style but will take some time to piece together… }
Toston continues to hover and hears the whispers change. “Get them.” “Hate them.” “They didn’t bring beer!” There is movement in the darkeness of the ceiling, and then more than just movement!
Flying out of the dark of the ceiling, are gray whisps, humanoid outlines of once-living sages and magicians. Spreading out as they descend, they go after each of the heroes! Luckily, the monsters themselves are too far away to fly and attack, and so they haven’t quite reached the heroes… yet.
Know Religion DC 19 Highlight to display spoiler: { The monsters are Shadows, but appear enhanced in some way. }
……………
14 Monsters are 30’ in the air. (AC 17) Toston is 20’ in the air. All others on the floor.
"Wow, that is a lot of Shadows!" says Desdichado. "Sarge and I can hopefully channel some of them away, but these look like they are somehow enhanced."
He gets a little closer to Hmerrin and Nira (move to H:11), hoping that he can use channel on a few of the Shadows.
Ready ActionIf at least 3 Shadows move to within 30' of Desdichado, he will channel positive energy against them. (29 damage, Will DC 22)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) 14d6=40 ; Monday September 13th, 2021 8:44:40 PM
Gaffer looks up at the myriad of enemies positioned far away from his allies and smiles. Stretching out a hand, the area around each shadow begins to shimmer as the temperature rises before coalescing into golden flames that engulf the dark creatures within.
[i] [OOC: It doesn't say in the spell the cubes need to be connected but there are 28 10 foot cubes to place so either way I believe it is possible to catch all enemies.] ----- Action: Casting Fire Storm - One 10 foot cube on each shadow - 40 Fire Damage - Reflex DC 24 for Half - Those that fail catch fire taking 4d6 damage each round until flames are extinguished. [i]
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+15=31 ; Monday September 13th, 2021 8:52:18 PM "Argh!" Nira recoils for a moment from the strange sigils and writing on the wall, but manages to retain control of her senses. "There's some really strange markings on the wall. Try not to look at them!"
If Gaffer is going to burn these creatures to a crisp then Nira doesn't want to be close to them (not that she did any way).
She takes a step backward and casts a spell to protect herself from the shadows.
----------- Will Save vs DC25: 31=Pass Knowl Religion vs DC19: 21=Autopass Free: 5ft step to G14 Move: Store Gem of Seeing Standard: Defensively cast Deathward. Concentration check autopass
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=2 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ; Monday September 13th, 2021 9:33:12 PM
Like Dez, Sarge also readies an action to channel when she can get at least 3 undead. If her readied action goes off, her channel does 13 damage, DC 17 Will save for half.
Toston bleeds 15 feet of altitude so that he is only hovering 5 feet off the ground while moving diagonally so that he is 45 feet away from where he was horizontally at T10. (OOC: single move; fly check 22; ends up at T10; 5 feet off the ground)
Shadows from the Dark Rd2 (SteveK) d20=17 ; d20=5 ; d20=17 ; d20=14 ; d20=1 ; d20=18 ; d20=9 ; d20=4 ; d20=19 ; d20=18 ; d20=7 ; d20=19 ; d20=9 ; d20=8 ; d20=11 ; d20=12 ; d20=14 ; d20=18 ; d20=10 ; d20=12 ; d20=12 ; d20=14 ; d20=12 ; d20=8 ; d20=18 ; d20=9 ; d20=11 ; d20=11 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=14 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; Tuesday September 14th, 2021 7:19:26 AM
Gaffer looks up at the myriad of enemies positioned far away from his allies and smiles. Stretching out a hand, he picks one target location and sets an area to blast with sheets of golden flames! The shadows are incorporeal, so only take half damage, and 2 save, so take half of half damage, and none of them catch fire because there is no material to ignite… but all of them have been hurt!
(ooc: magic requires a target location and then expand out. DM rules, therefore, that all flame areas must touch. The spell does not specify if it is a burst or spread, so DM will allow Player to define the shape similar to a wall spell. Therefore, all 14 Shadows are in the area of effect!)
Desdichado moves to Nira and waits until the shadows get closer. Then, the paladin channels positive energy, catching six of them! What’s more, even though one resists, Gaffer’s flames wounded them enough that all six dissipate! Only Hmerrin, Desdichado, and Nira are close enough to hear a whisper of ‘free at last’…
Nira recoils but manages to retain control of her senses. Not wanting to be close to the Shadows, she takes a step backward and casts a spell to protect herself from the shadows.
Sarge also readies an action, and catches eight undead in her positivity. It was rather weak, but Gaffer’s flames wounded many, and five of them are gone with but an echo of a whisper… ‘thank you’ !
Toston drops to 5 feet off the ground, and skims away in an acrobatic maneuver that would make a fairy envious! And he even has time to cast a Shield spell!
…..
Although Druid, Paladin, and Cleric have decimated the ranks of Shadows, it is unfortunate that the two headed to Sarge both survived to close. And with Toston maneuvering to get some space, the only other surviving Shadow goes after the closest living being: Sarge! Three Shadows bore in, reaching out, bypassing armor. Sarge feels the icy touch as she loses 7 points of strength!
……………
3 Monsters are 5’ in the air. (AC 17) Toston is 20’ in the air. All others on the floor.
A-H Dead I 23 Dam J Dead K 27 Dam L 23 Dam M-N Dead
Map via email
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) d6=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday September 14th, 2021 5:51:04 PM
Losing a good chunk of her strength, Sarge staggers under the weight of her armor. "And me a Strength cleric," she says. "That Domi, some sense of humor."
She channels positive energy again. This time, any undead within range take 21 damage, DC 17 Will save for half.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- 7d6=22 ; Tuesday September 14th, 2021 6:26:26 PM
Desdichado moves as close as he can to Sarge and channels positive energy again. (22 damage; will DC 22)
"Sarge," he gasps as he runs closer, "are you okay? Do you have any restorations ready? I don't right now, but give me some time and I can try and help you out!"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Tuesday September 14th, 2021 6:59:08 PM
Coming out of his daze, Hmerrin rushes toward Sarge while pulling out his axes.
--- Double move to N20
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday September 14th, 2021 8:53:23 PM
The others look to have the last three shadows well in hand. Nira decides to hold on to some of her precious spell slots for after the battle so she can treat some of the damage done to Sarge.
She does get a little closer to the action though.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 3 (SteveK) Wednesday September 15th, 2021 6:44:29 AM
Sarge staggers under the weight of her armo, noting Domi’s sense of humor. She channels positive energy again! All three shadows are too wounded for even saves to help them: they dissipate without a sound!
Desdichado, Hmerrin, Nira, and Toston all move closer to Sarge, but none have to use energy to combat the shadows: divine, physical, or arcane.
Denli moves back to Sarge to see if she is OK. ”Without my forging tools, I’m less than useless, but you are Clan. Are you OK?”
……..
The shadows are gone, and the heroes are left with the blast mark, the illusion curtain, and the information Sarge, Toston, and Nira have thus far discovered…
Map via email
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d4=4 ; Wednesday September 15th, 2021 2:30:02 PM
Gaffer moves over to Sarge and casts as Lesser Restoration, he only has one casting but it "Hopefully that lessens the impact, assuming it isn't a more serious effect."
Looking back at the room he adds [b]"So erm, do we climb in through the space they came out off?"
----- Lesser Restoration on Sarge - Possibly 4 Strength Restored
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday September 15th, 2021 2:31:37 PM
Sarge sits down on the floor. "I'm weak as a mage," she complains, at least partly in answer to Denli's question. "I'll have to change my name to Prudence and learn to throw fireballs.
"I've only got the lesser restoration prepared," she replies to Dez. "And somehow I don't think that's going to get it done. Anybody got any diamond dust?"
[OOC: If I remember right, shadows cause drain, not damage, so Sarge will need a full Restoration to get her strength back.]
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday September 15th, 2021 6:59:07 PM
"Oh, no. I'm not sure how much help I can provide then either," says Desdichado. "While we figure out how to help Sarge, can you tell us anything else about the strange symbols you saw, Nira? I wonder if they might help us figure out how to get out of here."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday September 15th, 2021 7:03:51 PM
Hmerrin grimaces at Sarge's plight. He has nothing that can help either.
"We're still looking for this Nullifier," he answers Gaffer. "And someone said this blast mark sent something up thataway. Can you and Toston fly up and take a look? Anything jumps you, get down here in a hurry."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 15th, 2021 8:58:07 PM
Nira goes over her spell-list as she looks at Sarge. Not even her Heal spell can cure such damage.
"Sure Des. The symbols themselves were very intense and interspersed with Teucri runes. Unless you have a strong resolve I'd suggest not to look directly at them as I'm pretty sure they'd drive a person insane. There was some other sort of writing closer to the floor that looked to be a different script. I'll try and decipher it."
Nira retrieves the Gem once more and goes to look at the script.
------------- Move action: Retrieve Gem (should still be active) Move action: Move to F15
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+21=28 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+25=35 ; Wednesday September 15th, 2021 11:35:12 PM
Toston says to Sarge, "Hey I resent that. I'm a mage of sorts and I am most certainly not weak but then again I have dragon blood so that certainly helps."
Toston casts detect magic and continues to look around.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 4 and 5(SteveK) Thursday September 16th, 2021 6:38:28 AM
Shadows from the Dark Rd 4 (SteveK)
Gaffer moves over to Sarge and casts as Lesser Restoration. Thankfully, these Shadows only had ability damage, not ability drain, and so the dward is restored 4 points of Strength.
Sarge quips about changing her name to Prudence (Know Local DC5 Highlight to display spoiler: { commonly known, Prudence is a Knights Commander of the Mailed Fist; a powerful Sorcerer, but not known for her physical prowess.}
Desdichado wants to figure out how to help Sarge, and is interested in more of the strange symbols Nira saw.
Hmerrin grimaces at Sarge's plight. "We're still looking for this Nullifier, and someone said this blast mark sent something up thataway.” So who can fly up there for a look, the young man wonders.
Nira goes over her spell-list, and responds to Des. Avoiding the symbols above, she uses the Gem of Seeing again, but specifically for the writing close to the ground. Her tactic pays off! The writing at the floor does NOT drive Nira insane, and with a little piecing together, she can come up with that there are other runes near the floor that are again written in another handwriting than the ones that cause insanity. The heroes may be able to make some guesses…
Know Religion DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: { The way the writings are repetitive make the heroes think of cults, but strangely there is no reference to any immortal or power.} Know Local DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: {There seems to be a repeated reference to “no scrying pool and no beer make Toril something, something” } Know Planes DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: { There appears a farewell to Yarmin, and hoping that he is able to reunite the Teucri race or whatever he was trying to do. }
Toston quips with Sarge, casts Detect Magic, and continues to look around. Staying low as he is, the light spells, darkvision, and detect magic [all 60’ range] don’t extend to the ceiling [100’ above the floor] or the hole through the middle of the ceiling the Tide came down from. In his recent encounter with the Shadows, Toston learns something else… his Blindsense did not notice the incorporeal monsters!
Toston casts detect magic and continues to look around.
Denli moves back to Sarge.
……..
The heroes have the initiative. Players can post 2 rounds of actions this post.
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Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] d20+22=25 ; Thursday September 16th, 2021 7:20:25 AM "Hmm. This is interesting..." Nira relays her findings to the others.
"The writings are repetitive. It feels a bit cult-ish, but strangely I cant see any reference to a deity. There seems to be a repeated reference to, and I quote, 'no scrying pool and no beer make Toril something, something'"
"There also appears a farewell to Yarmin, and hoping that he is able to reunite the Teucri race or whatever he was trying to do."
Nira looks about to see if there are anything radiating any significant magical power/aura.
---------------- Knowl checks vs DC20: All autopass Perception: 25 + Darkvision (60ft) + Lowlight Vision + Arcane Sight (120ft) + See Invisibility
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) d20+10=25 ; d20+6=16 ; Thursday September 16th, 2021 1:46:51 PM
Sarge also glances at the writings [Knowledge Religion 27]. It is indeed reminiscent of a cult, but.... "I don't think this is a ritual," she says. "I think it's somebody going stir crazy."
She glances at the scorch mark. "Maybe that explosion was a last-ditch effort to get out of here. And it failed."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday September 16th, 2021 2:03:24 PM
"A farewell to Yarmin?" wonders Desdichado. "I wonder if that means he made it out - back to the Teucri I mean, or that he died. The Shadows we just encountered make me think it may have been the second."
"And I second Hmerrin's idea - we need someone to carefully take a look at where those things came from and see if it looks like there are any leads for getting the Nullifier or getting out of here."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+8=26 ; Thursday September 16th, 2021 6:57:21 PM
Know Local - 26.
"Yeah, I'm with Sarge," Hmerrin opines. "Ol Toril got stuck here, then went bonkers, then turned into a shade, and then the shade went bonkers."
He shakes his head. "That would take an awfully long time."
The fighter looks to Toston and Gaffer to see if they can find the object up there somewhere.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) d20+24=25 ; Thursday September 16th, 2021 9:25:31 PM
It's been a while, Gaffer's form shrinks down briefly into a small mass of swirling shapes before turnign into a hawk before he flies up towards the area Hmerrin is gesturing towards to take a look for any objects that got hurled that way.
----- Wildshape: Hawk Perception: 25
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+2=6 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+25=43 ; Friday September 17th, 2021 1:10:38 AM
Know Local (untrained): 6 Perception: 43
Toston says to Sarge, "If you change your name to Prudence maybe I need to learn how to turn into things and change my name to Anna"
Toston says "Did you know that the shadows don't pop up on blindsense? Also I totally see that farewell to Yarmin but that is pretty much all I see."
He then flies up and takes a look around for the object.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 6 (SteveK) Friday September 17th, 2021 1:19:38 PM
The others gather and wait for Gaffer and Toston.
Gaffer-Hawk and Toston-with-wings rise up off the ground and get 50’ above the floor (an estimated 50’ to the ceiling), and they discover two things. The first is there does appear to be something like a large rod that is stuck in the ceiling about the location where Sarge pointed the blast-thing must have gone. The second is they can hear whispers again. “Hate”. “want Beer”….
…… The heroes have the initiative
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Sunday September 19th, 2021 11:08:36 PM
Toston casts message targetting the party. He then whispers to everyone, "Hey Guys. I'm hearing those shadows again from the ceiling. Anyone have anyway to pinpoint them so I can hit them with something strong?"
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 76 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 75 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 100 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Shadows from the Dark Rd 6 (SteveK) Monday September 20th, 2021 7:40:59 AM
No DM post, to allow time for more Players.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Monday September 20th, 2021 9:59:53 AM
Hmerrin mutters "great" at Toston's report of more shadow creatures. He has no ability to pinpoint nor really hurt them, and isn't happy about it.
"I don't suppose you can easily get the whatever-it-is stuck in the wall down here?" he asks, without much optimism.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Monday September 20th, 2021 11:17:10 AM
Gaffer will attempt to grab the rod in his beak and pull it free, remembering in the process why he started to prefer turning into an air elemental. He'll bring it back for the others to inspect if he succeeds, or descend away anyway and hope Toston can manage to remove it.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Monday September 20th, 2021 12:20:48 PM
"I can channel some more," Sarge says. "But if they're up there and I'm down here, it isn't going to help much."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday September 20th, 2021 1:41:32 PM
"Yep," continues Desdichado along with Sarge, "if you can get them down here we can probably get rid of them. Not sure how we're going to get up there, though."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Tuesday September 21st, 2021 1:52:04 AM
Toston says to Gaffer, "Hold the post"
He zips down and casts Fly on Sarge and whispers, "Let's take out some shadows."
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 75 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 74 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 99 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Fly (Sarge) - 80 rounds; Sarge can fly at 60 feet or 40 if medium / heavy and gets a +4 bonus to the Fly skill Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday September 21st, 2021 4:19:32 AM
Nira casts Overland Flight on herself. Just in case. She isn't quite sure what to do from here so instead watches Gaffer and Toston with interest.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 7(SteveK) d20+13=31 ; d20+13=26 ; d8=7 ; d8=4 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 5:34:41 AM
Toston casts message targetting the party. He then whispers to everyone, "Hey Guys. I'm hearing those shadows again from the ceiling. Anyone have anyway to pinpoint them so I can hit them with something strong?"
Hmerrin mutters "great" at Toston's report of more shadow creatures.
Gaffer moves closer to grab the rod, but he doesn’t make it that far. 90 feet up (only 10 feet away), a large Shadow reaches out of the ceiling and touches the Hawk. “Mine!”, it whispers fiercely. “Hate!”, it says again. Another large Shadow emerges, and it also seems to have the most important shred of memory to hold onto. “Want Beer!”, it says in no more than a whisper.
(Gaffer is touched twice and loses 11 points of strength!)
Sarge can channel more, but if they're up there, it isn't going to help much.
Desdichado agrees with Sarge, he’s also not sure how they're going to get up there.
Toston flies back down to pick up Sarge.
Nira casts Overland Flight so she can get in sight and start targeting things.
……………
As Gaffer descends from the ceiling, the Rod still impaled in the rock above, Gaffer (if conscious) and Toston, can notice these Shadows are larger than the last, and they do not leave the immediate vicinity of the Rod. Know Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { It appears these two are bound in some way to the Rod in the cieiling! } Know Religion DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: { These are Advanced Greater Shadows, much more dangerous than the swarm that attacked earlier, but still has the same weaknesses and attack as their smaller cousins. [/spoiler} Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {} One of the messages in the Spiral Maze mentioned names and beer too…}
"Hold up," Sarge says. "These are different. They're tied to that rod thing somehow. And they're a lot tougher. We're gonna need our A game."
Instead of channeling, Sarge decides to try a Searing Light on one of the shadows. [Used a Hero point to re-roll my touch attack and still missed.]
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday September 21st, 2021 3:56:33 PM
Gaffer withdraws from the fight as fast as his wings will take him, towards Sarge and Toston and general safety before they head back the other way.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday September 21st, 2021 6:23:00 PM
"Does anyone have beer? Maybe we can lure that big Shadow down with it" says Desdichado.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Tuesday September 21st, 2021 6:44:26 PM
Hmerrin shakes his head in frustration.
"I got nuthin'" he spits. "No beer, no flying, no restoration. I'm not sure these axes will even hurt those things."
The man rubs his forehead furiously.
"Pretty sure the key is getting to that rod. Any idea if a grappling hook would catch anywhere on it?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Tuesday September 21st, 2021 9:21:44 PM "Beer? I might have beer." Nira isn't entirely sure if it will work, but she casts a Silent Image spell to conjure up the illlusion of 5 barrels of ale near the scorch mark, with a puddle of ale on the floor.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+6=18 ; Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 12:46:13 AM
Toston figures if they are fighting more undead and these ones are tougher then the next character to give enhanced mobility to is Des.
The gnome flies over to the paladin and casts fly on him.
Know Religion: 18
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 74 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 73 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 98 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Fly (Sarge) - 79 rounds; Sarge can fly at 60 feet or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets a +4 bonus to the Fly skill Fly (Des) - 80 rounds; Des can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Shadows from the Dark Rd 8 (SteveK) Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 10:26:03 AM
Sarge provides some information, but can’t cast her spell: the Shadows are 100’ up to the ceiling and her Darkvision only goes to 60’. (ooc: retains her Searing Light and Hero Point)
Gaffer withdraws from the fight as fast as his wings will take him, towards Sarge and Toston and general safety before they head back the other way. Since the Greater Shadows attacked as soon as the druid got within range, his withdraw is successful in disengaging without giving an opportunity for an attack.
Desdichado asks if anyone has beer? Maybe we can lure at least one of the big Shadows down with it.
Hmerrin shakes his head in frustration, he got no beer, no flying, no restoration. Maybe the next investment would be a couple of Flying potions? Maybe a grappling hook set in it? (ooc: Gaffer was close enough to see that there were places a hook could grapple, if there was a way to throw it 100’ in the dark and hit the mark…)
NIra might have Beer. She casts a Silent Image spell to conjure up the illlusion of 5 barrels of ale near the scorch mark, with a puddle of ale on the floor.
Toston figures they are fighting more undead, that these ones are tougher, and so flies over to the paladin and casts fly on Des.
……………
The two Advanced Greater Shadows don’t charge Gaffer, Toston, or the illusion of beer. Maybe it is because they can’t see 100’ to the floor, or because they are unaffected by a Silent Image, or because they are forever trapped to be near the rod in the ceiling. With all the heroes back down to the floor, no one can see the two undead, or the rod, or the ceiling.
…… The heroes have the initiative.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 1:00:16 PM
[OOC: Sarge had Fly cast on her last round. I guess I just neglected to say I flew up.]
Sarge flies upward until she can see the shadows. Then she identifies them and tries her spell as before.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 5:09:55 PM
Desdichado begins to arc himself 40 feet up towards the Shadows and rod.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 7:00:01 PM
"Well, hold on," Hmerrin calls to Dez. "If Gaffer says we can snag the rod, lets try that."
The fighter retrieves a grappling hook and a couple coils of rope, and attaches everything so that he ends up with 100' line. He hands the hook and the coiled rope to Dez.
"Once you get close enough to see the rod, try to hook it, let the line fall, and I'll pull it down."
"By the way, does anyone know if magic weapons hurt shadows?"
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 11:19:21 PM "What's your weapon of choice, Hmerrin?" She hasn't known the fighter long enough to know his preferred fighting style.
Nira will cast Ghost Weapon on which one Hmerrin prefers.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Thursday September 23rd, 2021 1:57:18 AM
Toston says to Hmerrin, "Congratulations! you can fly too" and flies over to the young fighter and casts Fly on him.
He calls over to Nira, :"Do you need a boost too or can I star flying up there with the others next round?"
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 73 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 72 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 97 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Fly (Sarge) - 78 rounds; Sarge can fly at 60 feet or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets a +4 bonus to the Fly skill Fly (Des) - 79 rounds; Des can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Fly (Hmerrin) - 80 rounds Hmerrin can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Thursday September 23rd, 2021 5:16:24 AM
Gaffer doesn't want to risk getting close enough to be drained but also can't see the shadows from where he is, he decides to wait a little while longer and see if they can confirm whether the shadows can move away from the rod.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 8 (SteveK) Thursday September 23rd, 2021 12:01:59 PM
(Ooc: apologies, got all mixed up. No DM post today)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday September 23rd, 2021 2:40:04 PM
Desdichado thanks Hmerrin for the rope and makes his way slowly up. "I should be able to channel while holding this rope, so even if those things get close, maybe this will actually work."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Friday September 24th, 2021 12:13:50 AM
Toston waits patiently for Nira's response.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 10 (SteveK) d20+28=43 ; d20+28=42 ; Friday September 24th, 2021 6:14:45 AM
Sarge, who had gotten a Fly spell only a couple of seconds ago, flies up 40’ and casts Searing Light, but misses.
Desdichado waits for Hmerrin’s preparations, then begins to arc himself 40 feet up towards the Shadows and rod.
Hmerrin calls to wait, creates himself a Rod Puller, and asks Dez to attach it. (2 rounds to complete)
Nira casts Ghost Weapon on Hmerrin’s battleaxe.
Toston casts another Fly spell, this time on Hmerrin! He can remember that Nira had previously cast Overland Flight on herself; the elf probably won’t need a Fly spell.
Gaffer doesn't want to risk getting close enough to be drained but also can't see the shadows from where he is, he decides to wait a little while longer and see if they can confirm whether the shadows can move away from the rod.
……………
Sarge and Desdichado can barely see the two Greater Shadows, well partially, since they have withdrawn into the stone of the ceiling. Being sneaky monsters, the heroes will have to be within 60’ to even have a chance at seeing the Shadows. (Stealth +43, 42)
…… Map in email
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday September 24th, 2021 2:49:21 PM
As Desdichado continues to float upward, he notices how dark it's becoming and how difficult it is to see anything, let alone the Shadows. "Can anyone give us a light up here? It looks like the Shadows are hiding up in the ceiling. I'll try to hook this to the rod here in a moment - maybe the light will keep them away from us for a bit."
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Friday September 24th, 2021 11:50:33 PM
If she can, Sarge would like to fly up and cast Light on the rod itself.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Saturday September 25th, 2021 9:48:40 AM
Hmerrin's mood improves considerably after Nira and Toston cast their spells.
"Now that's more like it," he purrs.
Battleaxe in one hand, and an Everburning Torch in the other, the young fighter rises to catch up with Dez.
----- In Effect Fly Ghost Touch (battleaxe) Darkvision
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Sunday September 26th, 2021 1:18:26 AM
Nira bravely stays near the back of the pack. She waits to see how Des goes with the hook maneuver. If need be, she can cast Mage Hand to help move the hook into position but waits to see if her help is needed at all.
------------- Fly to I17 - 15ft up
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday September 26th, 2021 7:16:35 PM
Gaffer flies 30 feet closer to the rod and the others, wanting to be close enough to act as needed, and waits to see what Sarge and Des can do.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 4d4+4=15 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 12:18:10 AM
Toston flies to J17 60 feet up then fires off a magic missile at the nearest shado.
15 force damage to the shadow
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 73 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 72 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 97 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Fly (Sarge) - 78 rounds; Sarge can fly at 60 feet or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets a +4 bonus to the Fly skill Fly (Des) - 79 rounds; Des can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Fly (Hmerrin) - 80 rounds Hmerrin can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Shadows from the Dark Rd 10 (SteveK) d3=3 ; d3=2 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+13=25 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 2:35:20 AM
Desdichado, notes it has always been dark in the chamber, and only the heroes’ own darkvision or light sources have momentarily revealed the ceiling. He continues to fly upward and asks for a light. (ooc: DM assessing Dez is at 80’. Note that floating or hovering will require a Fly check DC15)
Sarge continues to fly and intends to cast Light on the Rod itself. She’s going to have to touch the Rod, so can’t make it yet…
Hmerrin , purring, with battleaxe and Everburning Torch in his hands, he double flies up and catches up with Dez.
Nira stays low, hoping to hear if her assistance is needed near the ceiling. (ooc: Dm is tracking NIra’s Dancing Lights are at floor level and Nira doesn’t have darkvision. If true, she can’t see the roof or any of the others except for Denli.
Gaffer flies back up to be close enough to act, but far enough not to be drained.
Toston flies 60 feet up, but is unable to perceive them hiding partially hiding in ceiling and shadow. Without a target, the Dragon Disciple does not expend a spell.
……………
Three heroes get close enough to the Rod and the Shadows emerge from the ceiling, ‘shouting’ in their dark whispers. Both of them stay 10’ away from their targets.
The first, now seen as a female human shape, rushes Desdichado, shadowy fingers seeking to move through his armor. “Hate! You left us here! Your fault! Hate!” (Desdichado loses 6 points of strength!)
The second, now see as a male dwarf shape, turns to Sarge, fingers jabbing. “Beer! You have all the beer! Toril’s Beer!” (Sarge loses 1 point of strength)
……
Circe- AC 20 Hp Toril – Ac 20 Hp
Map in email
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) d20+24=28 ; d8+21=29 ; d20+19=22 ; d8+21=29 ; d20+14=28 ; d8+21=26 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 6:49:37 PM
"I got yer beer right here, buddy," Hmerrin growls.
The fighter skips toward Toril, and unleashes a series of blows.
-------- 5' step to M17. Full Attack, Power Attack (flanking) on Toril with Ghost Touch Battleaxe.
Atk 1 hits ac 28 for 29 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac 22 for 29 hp damage Atk 3 hits ac 28 for 26 hp damage
"Almost there," shouts Desdichado moments before the Shadow claws at him. His attempt to slow down near the Rod are thwarted and he falls a bit from the shock. As he moves down, he attempts to channel energy against the Shadows.
Channel positive energy; (16 damage Will DC 22)
(OOC: I'm not sure what happens when you fail a fly check by 5 or more without wings. I'll assume Dez falls a bit or would fly in a random direction)
----------- Active Effects Strength: 13 Fly:78 rounds; 40 speed; +4 bonus to the fly skill Lay on Hands (14/18 remaining)
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday September 27th, 2021 9:32:37 PM
Nira can hear the battle start but can't see it from this height. She rises a little further - 40ft from the ground - to get a better view.
"Does anyone else need a Ghost Weapon spell?" she offers, ready to cast one.
------------ Move: Ascend from 15ft to 45ft. Fly check vs DC20: Autopass. Ready action: If anyone wants a Ghost Weapon spell and gets close to Nira she will cast it for them.
Active Effects: Arcane Sight... Darkvision... Deathward... Low-Light Vision... Mage Armor... Magic Vestment... Overland Flight... See Invisible/Ethereal... Resist Fire (5) ... Ghost Weapon (Hmerrin)
Highlight to display spoiler: {Nira has Darkvision as a perm spell}
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) 5d6=16 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 9:39:16 PM
Sarge continues moving upward. "Beer?" she says. "Sure, I brought the beer. It's in my pack down there. You go get it; I gotta get a light up here."
Once she reaches the rod, she tries to cast Light on it.
If she is still not within reach of the rod, she channels positive energy to hurt the shadows. If that happens, they take 16 damage; DC 17 Will save for half.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 4d4+4=9 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 11:44:23 PM
Toston continues moving up toward the ceiling firing off a magic missile if he can find a shadow target.
9 damage from magic missiles.
Active Effects: Detect Magic - 60 foot cone 73 rounds Mage Armor - 8 hours ; +4 AC Shield - 72 rounds; +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity magic missile Message - 97 rounds; whispered conversation at a distance 8 people Fly (Sarge) - 78 rounds; Sarge can fly at 60 feet or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets a +4 bonus to the Fly skill Fly (Des) - 79 rounds; Des can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Fly (Hmerrin) - 80 rounds Hmerrin can fly at 60 speed or 40 if medium / heavy load and gets +4 bonus to the fly skill Passive Effects: Blindsense 30 feet Wings - Fly 60 feet (avg)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Tuesday September 28th, 2021 5:01:08 AM
Gaffer is not sure if the spell will work while indoors, let alone in an extradimensional space, but knowing it is his old reliable, Gaffer starts casting Call Lightning.
Shadows from the Dark Rd 11 (SteveK) d20=9 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+13=25 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; Tuesday September 28th, 2021 7:24:14 AM
Hmerrin growls, and takes advantage of the Beer Shadow getting too close, and the Ghost Touch Battleaxe does its work very well indeed. “But… beer?”, and the first Shadow dissipates. But Hmerrin isn’t out of the woods yet! Having stopped in mid-air to fight, he is in danger of falling! [Hmerrin do a Fly Check DC 10, fail by 5 = plummet to the ground].
"Almost there," shouts Desdichado is almost there, then staggers in air at the Shadow’s attack. [ooc: DC while moving less than half is actually only DC 10, so Dez doesn’t fall but doesn’t move forward.] He creates a flare of holy energy that stings the Shadow!
Nira rises 40ft from the ground to get a better view, and can see the ceiling and battle above while ready to cast support spells.
"Does anyone else need a Ghost Weapon spell?" she offers, ready to cast one.
Sarge ignores the Shadow, not knowing that Hmerrin already killed it. She makes it to the Rod and casts Light!
Toston continues moving up toward the ceiling firing off a magic missile at the Shadow menacing Desdichado, now well lit by Sarge’s spell.
Gaffer casts a Call Lightning spell.
………..
The last Greater Shadow moans and flinches from Desdichado’s holy light, but it continues to attack the paladin. “Hate! I lost everything because you left us here! Hate Yarmin!” Fingers slide forward, touching, draining! [Desdichado loses 7 points of Strength!]
Yet the Shadow is also nearly spent. Another hit with a ghost touch battle axe, or holy energy, or magic missle or lightning, and the Shadow that used to be Circe fades. “Free at last. Thank you, heroes.” And is gone.
……
END COMBAT
Heroes have the initiative.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Tuesday September 28th, 2021 2:14:07 PM
"Oof." Sarge settles back down to the ground. "I am definitely getting to old for this nonsense. Are we ready to get out of here?"
Desdichado tries to make it to the Rod, but the additional loss of strength is too much for him and he begins to falter and glide down. His voice is weak as he faintly calls out "Somebody want to take this hook off my hands?"
Hmerrin wheels, and whacks the remaining Shadow into nothingness.
"Working on it, Sarge," he calls back.
He then flies down to pick up the grappling hook from Dez, back up to affix it to the rod, and back down to ground level. (Fly 24)
Once on ground level, the young fighter gives the rope affixed to the grappling hook a tug, then a pull, then a heave...and then a couple more (Str checks 7, 9, and 14).
--- In Effect Fly Ghost Touch (battleaxe) Darkvision
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 d20+3=5 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=8 ; Wednesday September 29th, 2021 12:26:23 AM
Toston joins the fighter on the rope (Str : 5, 13, 8)
At the mention of being too old for this Toston has a brief flash of Nissa. He nearly ended up in a place from which he could not return to her. She had given up so much for him was it selfish of him to continue the adventuring lifestyle when he had a good gnomish woman at home?
He resolves that if he ever gets back he's gonna marry her and maybe settle down.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 29th, 2021 2:56:44 AM
There's not much Nira can do to treat the strength drain that several in the party have incurred. She makes a note to buy some restoration scrolls so as not to be in this position again.
If they get out of here.
"Hmm. Do you think there are any other monsters down here?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 8:17:51 AM
Gaffer flies up to be level with the rod and keeps an eye on it, not convinced more monsters aren't going to spill out as soon as it is pulled loose.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 8:17:52 AM
Gaffer flies up to be level with the rod and keeps an eye on it, not convinced more monsters aren't going to spill out as soon as it is pulled loose.
Three Parts. (SteveK) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 8:49:19 AM
Desdichado are feeling weak and float back down to the floor.
Gaffer and Nira keep an eye open while Sarge is feeling age creeping up on her.
Hmerrin takes the opportunity to have no Shadows around to attach the grappling hook and, eventually, with Toston’s help, gets to pull the rod out of the ceiling where it comes clattering to the floor, still lit by Sarge's spell.
Gaffer is holding the Twisted Core, and his wears the Time Pebble (which is also his Stone of the Forge Lord). At the heroes feet is the blackened rod, probably the Ultimate Nullifier.
The heroes also have the instructions of Dali, the crazy wizard back from the room of Divination: touch the Twisted Core to the Nullifier, then touch the Time Pebble to the fused artifacts. That should break the Time Bubble of Yarmin's workshop and then everything should return to the Wold, aged to thier time.
The question that forms at the front of each heroes mind is: what preparations do they want/need to make before trying this?
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday September 29th, 2021 1:28:10 PM
"Something made Yarmin's friends turn into Shadows. I'm not sure what, but just in case it's this thing," says Desdichado, "better safe than sorry." Desdichado casts Magic Circle Against Evil on the group to protect them against possession or mental control the devices might have.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 3:37:50 PM
Sarge casts a quick Bless on the party. "Can't hurt," she says.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 5:42:20 PM
"Probably should all close in together," Hmerrin opines. "I know that's not good if it explodes, but getting left behind if it only makes a small portal would be worse."
Following his advice, the fighter keeps close to Gaffer.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday September 29th, 2021 6:04:32 PM
Nira draws in close with the others to encircle the devices.
"Well... if we die it's been nice knowing you all. However briefly."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 7:28:31 PM
Gaffer groups up close with the others, dropping his hawk form and, if the others don't mind waiting for him, he'll cast a couple spells. First he summons a Greater Earth Elemental, then another spell to buff it's attacks, and then order it in terran to go and stand 30 feet away from the group.
----- Active Effects ----- Summon Natures Ally VII - Greater Earth Elemental: HP 162/162; AC 21,T7,FF21 - 13/14 rounds Greater Magic Fang - +3 to GEEs Slam attack - 14 hours
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Wednesday September 29th, 2021 10:35:20 PM
Toston joins hands with the other members of his party
Three Parts. (SteveK) Thursday September 30th, 2021 7:04:24 AM
Desdichado casts Magic Circle Against Evil on the group to protect them against possession or mental control the devices might have.
Sarge casts a quick Bless on the party. "Can't hurt," she says.
Hmerrin opines they should be close together.
Nira draws in close with the others to encircle the devices.
Gaffer groups up close with the others, and casts a couple of preparation spells. A buffed Greater Earth Elemental moves off 30’ and guards the group as they prepare for the combining of artifacts.
Toston joins hands with the other members of his party.
………….
The heroes have the initiative.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday September 30th, 2021 12:59:19 PM
"Who is holding the Twisted Core now? Nira? Gaffer? Would one of you like to follow Dali's instructions?" asks Desdichado.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday September 30th, 2021 5:38:58 PM
"Any time, kids" Hmerrin says.
Sarge [AC 20; HP 132/132] (Kathy) Thursday September 30th, 2021 7:43:25 PM
"Yep, let's do it," Sarge says. "Need me to hold anything?"
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Thursday September 30th, 2021 11:23:45 PM
Toston says, "Let's get this road on the show."
Destruction! (SteveK) Friday October 1st, 2021 4:00:35 AM
Our heroes create thier defenses, get close together, and hope to avoid having a blast (ooc: pun intended). Most of the heroes get antsy to get the road on the show!
When Gaffer is ready, there is nothing esle to do other than touch the Twisted Core to the Nullifier...
The two artifacts jump in the druid's hands, then fuse together into a "T" with a spray of heated sparks! A humming starts, and wisps of rainbow threads pulse out of the combined artifact. Gaffer's Stone of the Forge Lord begins to glow and urge forward like it did in the Spiral Maze.
The way to get out of this time loop is to destroy the Time Bubble, and someone needs to touch the Time Bubble to the Combined Artifact. Gaffer moves forward and touches the Stone...
There is a moment where nothing happens… and then there is an explosion of light and magical force! Strings of lights that brighten until they are a hot white, and then get stronger until it is only a painful brightness! A concussive force pulses again and again! But the heroes don’t seem to be affected by the light or force, just everything around them. And then all at once, the light, force, and sound is gone!!
The Pit is gone.
The Bubble is gone.
The Heroes are gone.
… And Reunion (SteveK) Friday October 1st, 2021 4:01:41 AM
But only for a moment!
The Tide find themselves where they started, in the mushroom cavern of the Deepforge Clan. Denli is still standing with the Tide, too, only completely bald and with a white beard. Around the heroes are several dozen piles of dust, slowly drifting away on the cavern winds. And there are items also scattered on the ground…
Teucri Nullifier (defunct) Teucri Twisted Woldsblood Core (defunct) Scythe +3 Axiomatic 3 sapphire gems. Each is an Elemental Gem (Water) (2,250 x3 = 6,750gp) Boots of Teleportation (49,000gp) Bag of Tricks (tan) (16,000gp) Horn of Valhalla (iron) (50,000gp) Staff of Transmutation (82,000gp) Lump of adamantine that used to be the body of Arkus. Scattered coins, gems, jewelry of an amazing assortment and quantity.
They also startle the beejeezus out of a team of dwarf mushroom farmers! One faints, two scream, and three run.
Soon there is noise in the cavern tunnel, and the dwarf farmers have returned with reinforcements. The ForgeLord and his guards crowd the room. Along with them are two human-sized people who look like adventurers and a gnome wizard.
It's the gnome wizard who breaks the tableau first. "TOSTON! she shouts in mingled worry, relief, and joy. It's Nissa! In the blink of an eye, there is hugging, crying, and babbling. "I didn't know where you were; I was so worried because I couldn't find you; , and so the family and I hired these two who were visiting Dirt City because they were also looking for you; and we all went looking for you at the last place you were which was the Scab; and we found the DeepForge clan; and were talking to them becuase you have been gone a year; and being a fiance' isn't good enough; and we are getting married RIGHT NOW!!!"
............NOTES
Congratulations to the Tide!
All Tide heroes in the last adventure gain: 180,000xp (All PCs now have a minimum of 635,000xp. If you PC doesn't, make the adjustment to 15th level) enough wealth to have a minimum of 240,000gp One Hero Point
Yves and Brian may now Post and introduce thier PCs!!!
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Friday October 1st, 2021 5:46:07 PM
Desdichado gives a respectful nod to the ForgeLord. "Hello again. I imagine you didn't expect to see us again so soon. Gaffer I'm sure can explain what happened better than I can - but, well, let's just say we ended up somewhere we didn't expect."
The paladin isn't surprised, and is actually somewhat relieved when he hears Nissa say they've been gone for a year. "A year, eh? We'd best hightail back to Dirt City, then. I'm afraid of what may have been going on there in our absence. We'd only just moved into Tide House - I wonder if our agreement will have been kept at all while we've been away."
"Do you mind if we make use of a washroom?," he asks, "I need a to trim this year of growth, and I apologize if we smell too much."
"Oh yeah, and from now on, I'm walking."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Friday October 1st, 2021 9:52:37 PM
Nira has no idea who these people are. It then occurs to her. She's been gone for over a hundred years. How many people will she actually know in the Wold now? Will everyone be a stranger? That's an interesting thought.
She tries to stay out of the way and let the others have their reunions.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Saturday October 2nd, 2021 9:40:55 AM
Hmerrin tries to process events, but there's a lot going on.
He gives Denli a clap on the shoulder. "I don't suppose you could turn that hunk of Arkus into a war hammer?" But he leaves the introductions and explanations to Sarge.
Toston also looks like he's got a large piece of jerky to chew on.
The man merely nods in response to Dez. In a year, nearly anything could have happened at home.
And then there's Nira.
The young man leans over to the elf. "We're headed back to Dirt City." It occurs to him that it might not have existed when Nira was in the Wold, which is mind-boggling. "Uh, it's our home town. You are most definitely welcome to join us."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 135/135 AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:30) Sunday October 3rd, 2021 3:16:33 PM
Gaffer nods and waves in greeting to the group before them.
"We may have forgotten that teleportation isn't without risks over here, and the Stone of The Forge Lord I possessed turned out to be a te... t.. tecruee artifact?" He smiles over at Des, "Not to worry, I have spells for two new ways to get home, and only one of them is teleporting! But really, it sounds like congratulations are to be in order Toston!"
Gaffer imagines a day or two won't make much difference to anything after a year, and hopes they can make use of beds, washbasins and the dwarven cooks before they head back to Dirt City.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 140/140; AC:41/25/33 - CMD 35 Sunday October 3rd, 2021 5:19:26 PM
Toston raises his hands in surrender and says to Nissa, "I never thought I'd end up in a Teucri artifact for a year. You have no arguments from me. In fact it isn't far to you for me to marry only to continue on these adventures. Let's get married and settle down someplace quiet like."
Toston says to the Tide, "Look's like it is here we part ways my dear friends. It has been a real interesting journey and I feel like we've been through a lot but now I think my path leads another way. I don't know where Nissa and I will end up with all these gnome relations but Dirt City doesn't seem to be the place. I'll send you a post card from wherever we end up and if you are ever in the area pay us a visit."
Wedding and Words (SteveK) Monday October 4th, 2021 2:54:23 AM
Desdichado gives his respects to the ForgeLord (who chuckles), then the paladin learns they have been gone a year. His immediate worry is Dirt City and what may have been going on: Tide House, the agreement of the Houses, the Rakshasa.
Nira has no idea who these people are, but how many people does she really know after a hundred years? She tries to stay out of the way and let the others have their reunions.
Hmerrin tries to process events, there's a lot going on! Turns out Denli can totally make Hmerrin an adamantine Warhammer. Re-introductions seem to be better left for others, which leaves… an invitation to Nira to stay with the Tide.
Gaffer waves at the group and admits their oversight about teleportation and the Scab. He isn’t concerned, the druid has another magical way to get home quicky! And congratulations to Toston!
Toston has no arguments after a year in a Teucri artifact. “Let's get married and settle down someplace quiet like."
…………..
Desdichado’s need and Gaffer’s imagination comes to pass, and everyone can make use of beds, washbasins and the dwarven cooks before the wedding.
The wedding? Yes, turns out Nissa didn’t leave Dirt City without a plan: a plan to track down and be ready to marry ‘that man’. Along with the two, currently quiet, hired adventurers, Nissa has every one of Tostons Followers here, plus the couples’ parents! There is a wedding very next day in the Great Hall. Dwarves and gnomes pack the space. Silver and gold, delicately worked to look like flowers are on every column with a gnomish Dancing Lights by each one, making the hall a rainbow of bursting colors. And the bunting draped wherever there isn’t a column only completes the look of celebration. Only an aisle and the dais is relatively uncrowded.
The Tide (even Nira) are asked to stand as Toston’s witnesses, and Nissa has an equal number of gnomes. Sarge is asked to preside. The wedding goes off without a hitch, and the feast afterwards has meat and drink and confectionaries from far and wide, even a pyramid of famed Faragundian chocolate. Music. And Dancing. And Laughter and speeches and more dancing…
And Nissa gets a mischievous look in her eye. “Not quite settling down yet, husband of mine” (she says with possessive pride), “we still have a Night and a Year of a Honeymoon, and I intend to use every hour!”
…………..
The next day ’dawns’ near noon in the halls of the Deep Forge clan. Before the Tide and Mr. and Mrs. Lotor leave, there is a last get together. Turns out, Nissa has some information since she was keeping tabs on Dirt City and the Tide’s WLA contacts. She will try to answer everyone's questions...
All heroes can ask questions Yves and Brian, please introduce yourselves!
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 Hp122/122 CMD32 Monday October 4th, 2021 9:57:12 AM
A man approaches the group. As he walks up to you, his cloak changes color from a dull faded green to a more festive and lively yellow. Greetings! My name is Ramirez. I have been asked by the WLA to report for an assignment. How may I be of assistance?
Appearance: Ramirez is a good looking man of above average height. He has a full head of hair and is typically found clean-shaven and sports a well-trimmed goatee. When he is in a new town, he will quickly adopt the latest fashionable hairstyle so as to better fit in. His clothing tends to be of good quality, but serviceable durability. He makes frequent use of his cantrip to adjust the color of his cloak. He has done this for so long, that he is barely consciously aware that he is doing it.
…… DM Note: Ramirez is one of the WLA heroes ‘hired’ by Nissa in Dirt City. He had been looking for the Tide for a year, and Nissa implicitly trusts him. End DM Note
Danko Pureheart ( YvesB) Monday October 4th, 2021 6:30:12 PM
" Hello my new friends. My name is Danko Pureheart, full time sorcerer, part time rogue. I certainly hope that we can find some shenanigans to get into?? "
Danko is a human male. He has a light bronze skin tone. His slicked back raven black hair has streaks of reddish bronze. His thin black mustache gives him the look of a wealthy dandy. He wears a short hooded white robe tied to the waist. He carries a short sword at his belt, a brace of daggers across his chest and a quiver across his back. He possesses a red-ish colored staff and is currently leaning on same. Black pants and boots finishes his attire.
ooc> Just back from vacation. I'll work on finishing/submitting my character tomorrow.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Monday October 4th, 2021 6:35:50 PM
Hmerrin is clean and fed and drunk and happy and sad. So, a full day.
The fighter pulls in Toston and gives gnome a tight hug.
"It's been an honor, and congratulations again," he says.
At some point in the evening, he'll ask, "Does anyone know if Shield House is still up, independent, and making money?"
He offers a hand to Ramirez and Danko. "We just got out of shenanigans, so give us a minute, alright?" the fellow chuckles.
"I'm Hmerrin. Me and whoever is still coming with me is The Tide, and you are certainly welcome to join our company."
Hmerrin is a young human man with long brown hair that curls at his neck. He has intense green eyes, and an easy smile within a square jawed face. He's also decked out in full platemail, with a battleaxe on his left hip, and a hand ax on his right.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 144/144AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:31) Monday October 4th, 2021 7:54:43 PM
Gaffer is very glad for both the rest and celebrations, the tide have been on a good run lately, but proper chances to blow of steam are still rare.
When the glad tidings are finally over, Gaffer steps up to shake Toston's hand before they leave, "We'll definitely take you up on that visit once your honeymoon is over!"
He'll offer a similar welcome to Dank and Ramirez, "Glad to have your assistance. As mentioned, we've been away from Dirt City for a while, and last we left was just after clearing out a few Rakshasa from just about every group inside. Not sure what we'll be going back to now, but if you're up for a challenge, I'm sure we'll find one.
Speaking of, Nissa, has there been any follow up on this since we left?"
[OOC: I have just remembered, back after we took over the temple (October 20th) Gaffer bought 5 Quarterstaffs which need to be polished for 28 days for the Changestaff spell. I'm not very clear how many days have passed since then.]
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Monday October 4th, 2021 8:23:09 PM
Desdichado greets Danko and Ramirez as well, "Glad to have you aboard. If Nissa and the WLA trust you, so do I."
"I'm guessing you already know something about the troubles in Dirt City," he continues. "As the others have said, we've got a big Rakshasa problem we were investigating before coming out here to help Sarge's clan."
When the Tide has time to themselves, Desdichado asks a few...okay, a lot of...questions:
"What is the latest intelligence on the Houses and the Prince that would be of interest?" "Has there been any overt rakshasa activity?" "Is it known if any of the Houses have removed rakshasa from their midst?" "Are any of the Houses publically denying any rakshasa infiltration?" "What, if anything, has the WLA been doing about the rakshasa? Or just in general?" "How is the Temple of Warrd doing? Any rakshasa reports from them?" "Have there been any escalation of hostilities between Houses?" "What's going on at Tide House?"
Desdichado nods his head at Hmerrin's question about Shield House. "Oh yes, I hope Tombo and the others are safe."
Sarge (Kathy) Monday October 4th, 2021 8:55:05 PM
"Ramirez, Danko, nice to meet ya," Sarge says.
To the rest of the group she says, "Fellas, it's been great, but I think this is it for me. Seeing Toston married reminds me that I've got a husband of my own. It's high time I looked in on him again. I left 'cause I thought I could still do some good in the Wold, and that's what I did. And now, I'm retired. For good, this time."
She grins. "Well. Probably."
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Monday October 4th, 2021 9:59:33 PM
Nira gives a smile to Hmerrin. "Dirt City? No. I can't say I've ever heard of the place. Is.. is it nice there?." It's true. The city didn't exist when Nira got trapped. She isn't going to say no to the offer of joining the group though. She has a lot to catch up on and these people are very friendly (not to mention very capable adventurers).
She doesn't really have any clue as to what is happening. She does manage to catch on to a few tidbits. Something about rakshasa activity, a place called 'Tide House', and of course, Dirt City. She tries to stay close to Des. He has a lot of questions and hopefully that means a lot of answers to things Nira could learn.
If anything it is a relief to meet these two representatives of the WLA. People newer to this little group than she is. "Nira. Pleasure to meet you" she gives a nod to Ramirez and Danko.
Nira is a young elf girl who doesn't look a day over 116, despite actually being 216 thanks to getting stuck in a Teucri time bubble for the past hundred years! Her skin is quite pale from spending so much time indoors and away from the sun, and her hands are soft from avoiding any sort of manual labor. She is both short and lean for her race, with barely any discernable muscle. She has no visible weapons or armor, instead relying on magic to help her get by.
Catching Up (SteveK) Tuesday October 5th, 2021 6:16:18 AM
Ramirez introduces himself, informing that he has been sent by the WLA!
Danko also introduces himself, commenting about shenanigans and the predilections thereof.
Hmerrin settles in to listen and ask questions: clean and fed and drunk and happy and sad.
Gaffer loves the rest and celebrations to blow off steam. The druid give a quick recent history of their exploits, then listens as he does his last day of polishing of his fifth Quarterstaff.
Desdichado greets Danko and Ramirez: if Nissa and the WLA trust them, so does the Paladin.
Sarge meets Ramirez and Danko, and announces her retirement. Again. And she (mostly) means it this time. She takes her leave.
Nira decides to join the Tide! There are things happening and she has no idea what has changed after being trapped for a hundred years. (DM Note: Per Woldipedia: Geography, Dirt City has been a city for at least 400 years. It was founded 300 years before the events of Violet and Arturo, which was pre-YOA. Year of Ascention has been nearly 100 y
Toston has some catching up to do with his parents and relatives and followers, so is absent getting things ready for he and Nissa’s extended honeymoon.
……………….
Ramirez, Danko, and Nissa provide all the information they have. The Tide (Hmerrin, Gaffer, Desdichado, Nira, Ramirez, and Danko) are able to listen and provide follow-up questions.
Dirt City. Things are cautiously optimistic. Nissa and the gnomes coordinated with the underground WLA to keep up the appearance that The Tide was close by; even (occasionally) seen. Whether that is the reason or not, the Houses have so far kept their bargain with the Tide in keeping House business away from the unaffiliated area of Dirt City. There is still crime and violence, just not with House backing. Shield House is still up, independent and making money.
Prince and Houses. There seems to be a confidence shake-up because of the Rakshasa infiltration. Prince and Houses aren’t airing dirty laundry, but there have been some internal reorganizations happening, but Nissa and the WLA in Dirt City don’t know what. No one is denying the Rakshasa existed, but no one is trumpeting it either.
Temple of Wardd hasn’t said much. Just that the high priest in Dirt City has privately mentioned to Ramierez and Danko that the portents only say that Cataclysm may be averted by a rising tide. She also gave Ramierez a sealed scrollcase with instructions to only open only with the hero group The Tide.
Rakshasa. There has been no overt Rakshasa activity in Dirt City. The WLA, however, has been working with the Dragon Consortium to locate and eliminate as many Rakshasa dens as possible. The WLA have found and destroyed 3 more ‘farms’ but agents kept getting away and the WLA didn’t win without cost. They have word that the Mailed Fist encountered Rakshasa as well. The WLA looks to The Tide as the most knowledgeable and capable: the tip of the spear against this incursion!
………..
Ooc: The heroes can ask more questions, do the Catacombs, upgrade PC Sheet, and/or thank Nissa so she can leave and the Tide can open the scroll.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 Hp122/122 CMD32 Tuesday October 5th, 2021 6:16:56 PM Thank you Nissa, for your support. It looks like we can take it from here. I'm glad I was able to help you cover for the Tide's absence. As he speaks, Ramirez's cloak shifts to a combination of mottled gray and green.
Rakshasa can be bad news, Ramirez hopes this new team is up for the challenge, with some of them retiring the new Tide will need to learn each other's strengths and weaknesses pretty quickly.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Tuesday October 5th, 2021 6:47:28 PM
"Thank you, Nissa," says Desdichado. "Now you and Toston go enjoy your honeymoon."
The young man is eager to see the contents of the sealed scroll. With the major changes happening in Dirt City, has had a feeling the Temple might be their best hope of support against the rakshasa threat. He's very glad to hear that the WLA and Mailed Fist have had their own share of successes.
The paladin chuckles to himself. "They thought we've been in town all this time? I'd love to hear how they pulled that off!"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:24:25 PM
Hmerrin also thanks Nissa for a job well done. The fighter also checks in with Denli about that Arkus hammer.
Sarge deciding to retire is a surprise, and the young man gives her a heartfelt hug as well. "We couldn't have made it this far without you," he tells her.
Later, with The New Tide, he looks around at Nira, Ramirez, and Danko. "Any of you a healer?" he asks. "We tend to need one, so I might be buying up some potions if not. Also, these Rakshasa cats are bad news. Spell resistance, weapon resistance to anything except holy piercing ones. So, if you're a melee person, get yourself something blessed and pointy. Option two is stick close to Dez here, 'cause it turns out paladins really do a number on rakshasa."
Hmerrin ducks into the local Catacombs entrance himself to stock up.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Wednesday October 6th, 2021 3:05:32 AM "I'm pretty good at healing things. Well, most things." Her inability to treat the ability drain caused by the wraiths is certainly a weak point. "I'll try and keep you alive as best I can."
Nira nods as Hmerrin heads off to the Catacombs and then turns her attention to Ramirez.
"That's an interesting cloak you have."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 144/144AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:31) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 6:10:34 AM
Having experienced Dwarven homes and hospitality for the first time, Gaffer can understand why Sarge would be happy to retire, "All the best to you Sarge, you deserve some peace and quiet."
To Nira he smiles, "I can keep some restorations ready if you've got the rest covered."
Once everyone is ready to leave, he doesn't forgot to offer "Are we about set to head off then? Des, hear me out, I can now turn us all into birds, and we can fly back!"
Catching Up (SteveK) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:20:20 AM
Ramirez reveals he was part of the deception plan covering for the Tide, and privately considers what it will take for the new Tide to be successful.
Desdichado chortles at the deception in Dirt City, and is eager to see the contents of the sealed scroll.
Hmerrin focuses on the Tide’s logistics situation, getting ready for the next challenge whatever it may be. Adamantine Hammer? Healer capability? And providing what they know of Rakshasa from several encounters!
NIra gives some information about her own capabilities.
Gaffer enjoys his time in the dwarf hold, then asks Desdichado ‘hear me out!’
……………
Training. The heroes know that in order to be ready for the next challenge, they need to train and reinforce the experience they have had. There isn’t a crisis that requires their attention either! So, with new WLA personnel and the entire Deep Forge Clan trainers available, the heroes avail themselves to practice new- and hone current abilities. This takes a month.
Preparation. Visits to the Catacombs and the forging of the Arkus Hammer also take a month. (ooc: Heroes can freely go to the Catacombs to purchase.) Denli is as good as his word. He not only provides a masterwork hammer of solid adamantine, but he is a mystic smith, and is able to put enhancements on the hammer as well! (ooc: MikeK, you are authorized to add the Adamantine Hammer to Hmerrin’s PC Sheet with any magical enhancements you want as long as it is annotated in Hmerrin’s WBL limitations.) Denli also has enough adamantine to do other weapons or armor in the same way for other members of the Tide. (ooc: post or email if a hero is doing this)
..........
DM Note: I am deliberately not revealing the contents of the scroll for 2 reasons. 1. To take care of the administrivia 2. To get approval for the next Module.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Wednesday October 6th, 2021 6:44:02 PM
"I can provide some healing as well - definitely not as well as Sarge, could, though," says Desdichado.
As the New Tide takes time getting to know one another and improving themselves, the paladin makes a trip to the Catacombs.
Danko Pureheart ( YvesB) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 6:45:03 PM
Danko's appearance starts to blur ... and he now looks like Ramirez... looking at Ramirez, who's looking back at Danko who looks like Ramirez.... before blurring again and looking like himself... or is this how Danko really looks?
That was... awkward?
Danko Pureheart ( YvesB) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 6:45:43 PM
" No to the healing question,, not much anyway... "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 6:57:35 PM
Hmerrin considers the 'no healing' answers.
"Gaffer, you got those healing potions we took off the giants, right? Might want to pass those out." [OOC - I believe there are four CSW potions.] Hmerrin will keep any left over.
The fighter then asks Denli to make that a +1 Arkus Hammer, goes to the Catacombs to get some protective goodies, and then the WLA to work on some archery practice.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 Hp122/122 CMD32 Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:06:23 PM Well, thank you Nira.The cloak is nothing special really, aside from the usual enchantment. One of the first spells I ever learned can change its' color and still my favorite. I used it so much sometimes I don't even think about it. Do you have a favorite color? I could change something for you as well?
Ramirez listens to the the comments regarding the Rakshasa with concern. I do know a few healing spells, but those talents pale compared to a dedicated healer. Maybe some scrolls?
Danko, that was....interesting. Maybe we could fool some adversaries with that trick sometime?
Catching Up (SteveK) Thursday October 7th, 2021 2:41:22 AM
The hero’s continue coordinating skills and getting to know each other.
..........
DM Note: I am deliberately not revealing the contents of the scroll for 2 reasons. 1. To take care of the administrivia 2. To get approval for the next Module.
Nira Wynvyre (RobC) [HP: 92/92 - AC:21/13/18 - CMD 19] Thursday October 7th, 2021 3:02:28 AM
Nira grins to Ramirez. "I've always liked bright purple. Not exactly the best color for blending in to things though"
In her downtime Nira sets to very carefully studying the now the defunct Nullifier and Twisted Woldsblood Core. It's unlikely other scholars have had the chance to see devices like these before. She doesn't cast any spells in their vicinity - just in case she accidentally powers them on. She makes detailed drawings of the devices and writes up her observations of them, as well as how they were found and previously used.
After that, she hits the books. Specifically she's looking for history books. She smiles at the thought. She was likely born before most of these history books were written. As soon as she has read one pile of books, she sets to creating a new pile of books to be devoured. Apparently the Wold is now in a 5th Age. Can you believe Eberyon is awake? So much time has passed and so many great events have taken place.
When she finally has a chance to go to the Catacombs there is one thing she wants to buy over all others: a silver mirror. That night, Nira ducks away from the group for a little privacy and tries to Scry on her mother. Highlight to display spoiler: {I'm happy to play this however you want me to, DM}
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 144/144AC: 25(T:16/FF:20) CMD:31) Thursday October 7th, 2021 10:46:41 AM
Gaffer inquires with the Dwarves as to the state of the caverns since they dealt with the crystal, offering his help if there have been any remnant creatures yet to be cleared out, or if they have any parties above ground who could use some temporary help.
He is a firm believer that practical experience is the best training and his mind is on finding better ways to overcome the resistance to magic that the Rakshasa, and other potential threats, possess. If he can help the Deepforge Clan and try out some new ideas in the process, excellent.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 150/150; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 28] DR:3/- Thursday October 7th, 2021 2:23:54 PM
Desdichado wants to hear more from Gaffer about turning into birds. "That...doesn't sound much better to me! What happened to good old fashioned walking, or riding a horse? But, I suppose as long as we don't wind up trapped inside an ancient artifact it won't be a terrible alternative."
The paladin also spends some time talking with the newcomers, getting to know them better.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 167/167 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:34) Thursday October 7th, 2021 7:12:55 PM
Hmerrin is totally with Dez on this one.
"Firm believer in walking," he declares. "Riding is good too. Turning into a bird, not so much."
Danko Pureheart ( YvesB) Thursday October 7th, 2021 7:36:17 PM
Danko smiles, looks at Ramirez as his face changes to that of Nira.... before changing back to his own.
" Yes, I can get us in all kinds of shenanigans with this trick.. "
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 Hp122/122 CMD32 Thursday October 7th, 2021 9:10:13 PM Well, how far are we walking? I might be able to shorten that trip a little.
Ramirez decides to practice a few of his own illusions. He makes some illusory people holding what appear to be shining weapons. Myabe they would fool the Rakshasa? I'm not sure how good these will be against Rakshasa. We may need to check some other options.
OOC- Ramirez has a little cash leftover, I think I'll have him stop by the catacombs over the weekend.
LOG ON