Let's Get Ready to Rummmmmmmmmmmble..! (DM Donna) Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 5:32:22 PM
Bill's overtaxed yet ever-fertile mind recalls that Ravenloft is the third-worst plane for anyone of good alignment to get stuck on...only Hell and the Abyss are worse--and only just barely so, at that. There's only the slimmest of chances that Marcus is wrong about assuming that the worst has happened to Damocles and Qancis, and one never truly knows...
(OOC: ...except for the DM--namely, ME--and I know that neither of these two are coming back. Trust me. Heh heh. Oh, by the way--Damocles' backpack will only contain any items that he was holding for anybody and/or for the party in general--all of his personal items, armor & weapons disappeared with the cleric.)
The party spends the following few hours resting and recovering their spells. They aren't bothered by anyone...and Darkfang managed to uncover a long-forgotten ham bone stuck in the very rear of the cold larder of the residence. The wolf brought the bone to Ferrak, like a good little beta, so that the gnome had right of first refusal.
Sunset fast approaches. The Hamleteers are rested and ready for tonight--the night that Marcus had been hoping that the destruction of the Infernal Copying Machine would thwart. The grim look on the aide's face when he returns to the apartment makes it obvious that such hopes have been dashed.
"We raided the pyramid as soon as I left here," Marcus briefs you, "But the Sons of Dread had already removed themselves from the premises...damned black-magic charlatans that they are!" The man swallows, retains control after a moment, then continues:
"My investigators say that the SoD still have sway over thousands of the citizenry, so there is no way we can keep the crowds from the Arena tonight. Instead, we will just have to go there and attempt to maintain some control by positioning elite squads around the perimeter." Here Marcus looks at you with hard eyes, but eyes that hold more than a little respect for you.
"You, however, must penetrate the Arena itself--get a ringside seat for whatever is happening, and keep your eyes and ears open as to what these SoB's--" Marcus deliberately used the wrong set of letters to describe the group, "--are trying to pull on the people. I don't know if you'll actually be able to disrupt the procedings, but you will be able to see for yourselves exactly what's happening, and be able to advise the rest of us about how they are trying to hurt Plateau City."
Marcus gets to his feet.
"So, people...are you ready for what may turn out to be the fight of your lives..?"
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 5:59:19 PM
Just before lying down for a nap, Bill writes a letter to his family, in halfling.
When Marcus returns, he asks, "So, there's not enough time for us to bring down the stadium before the people get there? I mean, that could thwart them, eh? I normally wouldn't suggest destroying public buildings, but under the circumstances, I'm willing to make an exception."
If that notion is deemed impractical, Bill asks, "Er, Marcus, sir, do you have any more of those talk thingees? Like, if a couple of us had 'em, we could tell someone outside what's happenin' inside?"
Sunblaze Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 9:40:50 PM
Sunblaze rests, she is tired and her mind is blanked by the magic she had been using. It comes to her that she had not read that book that she was given. After eating a small meal she does those, embedding herself in those pages. Not paying attention to those around her, the group sleeps, while she continues reading. Eventully she looks up, and sees that it is late, so she closes the book, feeling well. She grabs her bedroll and falls alseep...
When she awakens, after her two hour rest (Ring of Sustenance) she continues reading.
Renik Thursday October 4th, 2001 4:36:40 AM
When Marcus returns and explains their mission, Renik bows his head a moment, then meets their leader's eye. "I for one will do as you ask, Marcus. Anything we can do to prevent the Sons of Dread from carrying out whatever sick lunacy they have planned must be done, even if the risk is high. I agree with Mr Troublefinder here, though; in such a huge crowd communication between the team will be of paramount importance. Unless we can communicate remotely we will be isolated and vulnerable. Can you provide us with communication devices, as Mr T suggests?"
Turning to the halfling he continues " I seem to remember Sunblaze suggesting something similar regarding the Arena. But the place is simply enormous, it would take an incredible amount of power to destroy it. Even if we did, there is nothing to suggest that those magically drawn wouldn't simply congregate at the the mound of rubble."
Arien Thursday October 4th, 2001 5:38:38 AM
"We should probably avoid destroying the stadium since not only would it really make a lot of people mad, it would ruin our chance of eliminating the leaders of this group. If we can stop the ceremony and bring in a few key players its possible that we could, in one action, not only stop them dead here but put them on the run for a good long time."
Mission Impossible (DM Donna) Thursday October 4th, 2001 6:29:02 AM
Marcus nods at Bill's words.
"Destroying the Arena is definitely OUT." the mayor's aide says firmly. "However, you're correct about the need to keep in touch--but all I have is this one spare Coin of Communication, so here you are..." Marcus hands over the palm-sized token to Rond. It looks identical to Marcus' own.
"I have two other teams that will also be attempting to sneak into the Arena to see what they can see." the man tells you. "They, too, have a Coin each, and they will be under orders to attempt to disrupt whatever happens...or, at the very least, try to prevent anything really bad from happening if none of you can do that. I'm not expecting miracles--nor suicide missions--because I just know that there will be practically every member of the Sons of Death attending this...this event."
Marcus straightens a bit.
"Now...you are all ready to go, yes?"
Rond Thursday October 4th, 2001 9:11:03 AM
Seeing more friends sacrifice themselves, Rond feels a moment of sadness. Selfishly, Rond thinks to himself, 'at least I didn't have to order them to do it'.
When Marcus mentions it was his wife that went, Rond understands some of his pain, and softens up a little bit, on the decisions that Marcus has had to make from his position. With the acts of the Sod, they have become more like a hated enemy for Rond.
(ooc we'll be able to recover any group items that were given to Damocles?)
"We've still got the slippers for spider climbing, and we still have two scrolls of silence and Dispel Magic that Sunblaze and Arien have, Summon Swarm that was given to Damocles, and the dust of illusion that Renik has. I'm sure we can still create diversions or havok as necessary."
Renik Thursday October 4th, 2001 9:28:38 AM
Renik agrees heartily with Rond's comments. "Aye!" he exclaims, with a wicked glint in his eye, and a grin forming on his lips. "We'll sow whatever mayhem we can. The Sons of Dread can expect a certain amount of interferance from us!"
He leans back and looks at Marcus again. "This coin you speak of; what does it do exactly? Will it allow Rond to speak to each of us? Can we communicate back to him?"
Once his question is answered he nods once more, then says "I am ready, Marcus. Let us proceed."
Ferrak Thursday October 4th, 2001 10:44:33 AM
(First off, my computer is down. So I will only be able to post sporadically at best if at all. I am really pissed that it happened just now when I was just going to get to know some of your characters. Sorry Kim/Bill I wasn't snubbing your greeting and everyone else I'll do my best to get fixed quick.)
Ferrak, not being able to stand the confines of the house provided for him, roams out into the night, leaving Darkfang to signal him when he is needed.
"Sorry brother, I will, make it up to you."
Draax Thursday October 4th, 2001 12:18:21 PM
Draax smiles as he nods in agreement to the others' statements. "It seems that my one main purpose in life is to cause the SoDs discomfort. I am ready."
Bill Troublefinder d20+17=28 Thursday October 4th, 2001 2:29:02 PM
"Sir, sometimes a few minutes extra preparation can make a world of difference. I have not been to the stadium. Do you have a drawing, a map of the stadium, or can you sketch us one?" The halfling pulls out his writing materials. "I want to know about entrances and exits, doorways, corridors within the stadium. Dimensions, construction materials -- is it all stone, or all wood, or a mixture of things? Wondering about strength, inflammability.
"Also, if there is any way - a potion, or spell, or whatever - that I may be able to fly, I would appreciate it. Don't want to have to flap any wings, though. Invisibility would be nice, too. Protection from evil? From magic missiles? Are there any other special protections that we might have, or that you would advise, Marcus sir?"
As he asks this question, Bill pulls out his master disguise kit, lays down a foundation to change his features. He places the hat of disguise on his head, making further adjustments. He pulls a different set of clothes from his bag, as he works on his transformation into a halfling no one here has seen before. "Too many of the Sons of Dread who were back near Windhorn Hamlet would recognize me." [Disguise 28]
Arien Thursday October 4th, 2001 3:04:25 PM
After Bill is done speaking Arien interjects his own thoughts, "We should sneak into the stadium before time as well so we can look for any spots we can put to a strategic advantage, or places where we can set traps for the SoDs. As for protections, whatever can be provided will have to do I suppose. Although I think it would be very handy if we could get enough scrolls of Mage Armor that I could cast it on everyone in preparation for this battle."
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaall Aboard! (DM Donna) Thursday October 4th, 2001 4:19:51 PM
Marcus pulls a piece of parchment from a pocket.
"Here's the Arena map from the Arena's own concession stand," he tells Bill as he hands the map over. "We don't have any time to get any more magic items for your use--you will have to work with what you have now. And I wouldn't presume to tell YOU how to keep your skins intact while trying to discombobulate the Sons of Dread--it is up to your own logic and discretion as to how to do that." Marcus glances out the window.
"If you're going to try to arrive at the Arena ahead of the others, then leave now," the aide orders. "Good luck, people--may the gods walk with you." Marcus leaves, disappearing quickly into the darkness.
The moons of the Wold rise at a slow and steady pace...
Sunblaze Thursday October 4th, 2001 8:47:08 PM
Sunblaze looked at the book, and she seemed to look different. Not physically, but her posture changed and her spirit changed. The book was helping her. It was teaching her.
She gathered her things, mainly her bag, with her belongings inside it. She looks at the group with a smile.
"We embark forth. Towards a new mission." Strangely these words appear to be from Sunblaze's heart. That book must be doing something for her.
Bill Troublefinder Friday October 5th, 2001 1:53:58 AM
"This may be a battle, or may be a diversion. Our wits and the favor of the good gods are likely our best tools. But, it never hurts to have lots of tools, Arien."
"Thank you, sir," he says as he accepts the map from Marcus. "We'll be on our way in just a few minutes. May Wardd be on your side tonight. Farewell."
Bill gets momentarily bogged down in details, or, one thousand words are worth one picture: He looks the map over. "Okay, it's a circular arena. Looks like it's divided into eight sections, with each of those subdivided in two. Let's quarter the arena - These two big sections on the east we'll call East, and sections one through four - counting from left to right if you're looking up from the arena. So here's East three, for example. On to the right is South one through four, then West, and North one through four. That way, if we're there, and trying to point things out, we can say - oh, and there are three levels of seats, it looks like. Let's call them top, middle, bottom. And there on the East - right between sections two and three, looks like a special platform. I'll bet they did that so the setting sun shines brightest there last. Probably announcements, and the mucky-mucks sit around there. Four entrances - looks like they're in the NE, NW, SE and SW. Then we've got big exits / entrances in the division between each of the eight sections, medium-sized ones in the middle of each one - and there's a few odd spots here and there. [Donna - I'll bet you don't have a real map. So how's that for a generic description? -Kim
"Ferrak - Darkfang looks formidable. Um, big and strong. You're coming with us, aren't you? What kinds of skills do you have?"
Bill takes the back of Sunblaze's arm just above the elbow for a moment. "You're looking refreshed, kiddo. Glad you're with us." He gives a light squeeze, then pops back into the pantry.
He takes a glass container full of long spaghetti noodles, and crushes them into a bag. He fills the jar with water, and covers it again. This he puts into one of the waterproof bags left over from their undersea trek, and thence into his backpack. He also empties some flour into a large bowl, and keeps a few pounds of flour in the bottom of the bag. This also goes into his pack. He adjusts the items in his pack, and brings near the top the things he is most likely to need.
Having spent a few minutes on this, he asks, "Does anyone have the fly spell?"
"Renik - looks like Marcus didn't answer your question. Rond - talk in it, and see if anyone answers. Draax - looks like you're ready to roll."
Bill smiles with a grin made lopsided by his makeup, then his face turns more serious. "Whatever we do tonight - let's do it for Damocles and Qansis, and for our friends and families."
Renik Friday October 5th, 2001 5:11:11 AM
"For Damocles and the brave Quanis, agreed." Renik stands, waits to see how the communication devices function, and then once the party have sufficiently prepared themselves says, "Well, I believe time is of the essence. Shall we be off?"
Once the party reach the outskirts of the park, he turns to his companions and says "We should proceed with caution from here on in. No doubt the Sons of Dread will be on the lookout for trouble. How do you wish us to proceed, Rond?"
The "A" Team (DM Donna) Friday October 5th, 2001 6:43:58 AM
Renik finds that the coin he is testing communicates with the other coins that the other teams have. There are a total of ten teams (and Marcus, of course) who each have a coin. Teams A through D are the ones who will be inside the Arena; teams E through J (larger in number) are the security forces who will be located just outside the Arena, in case something happens. Marcus, of course, is the ultimate coordinator of all the teams.
As the A team, your party gets to pick the area they wish to stake out (the East section is the one that does, indeed, have the--ahem--"mucky-muck" section.) All you need do is identify yourself and tell the others which section your team will be in.
Ferrak--whose prowling outside was cut short by Darkfang's calling him back--growls the answer to Bill's query in barely-understandable common:
Ferrak can fight well and has been schooled in the ways of The Mother. Bill realizes that the gnome is speaking like a druid, which makes the wild-looking gnome a fighter/druid, most likely of equal skill in each area. Ferrak adds that Marcus recently gave him a spear that "seems to seek first blood" all by itself. The gnome is, indeed, carrying a half-spear of high quality, as well as wearing a ring on one finger and a set of leather armor that looks almost new.
(OOC: I will repeat myself about Damocles' backpack--all that you will find inside the pack he left behind are those items that did NOT belong just to Damocles. Whatever he may have been holding for the group, or anybody else, can now be found in that backpack. Damocles' personal items ALONE went away with him.)
Rond Friday October 5th, 2001 10:22:08 AM ooc pulling out a big fat cigar, Rond goes into detail about the 'plan' :)
As the team gets read to leave, Rond pulls the slippers of spider climbing and the scroll of summon swarm from Damocles's backpack. Rond handles the backpack with a kind of reverence. Looking around, Rond decides to give Bill the summon swarm scroll, and gives Ferrak the slippers of spider climbing. Looking at Ferrak Rond comments, "the slippers allow you to adhere to most surfaces. So you can use walls, and such, to stand on or attack from."
Either as the group moves to the arena, or once outside, Rond tells of his ideas. "I'm thinking the dust of illusion could be one of our biggest assest for creating confusion. So Renik you should keep an eye out towards what could help with the confusion. I'd suggest you stick near me, or tell me what you're doing, so that I can communicate to the other teams, what is going on. I'm thinking that we might at least want one or two members of other teams in our sector with us. I don't know if we're going to be recognized or not, so we should have extra agents around us, though not known to us. We can also look for powerful people, or spell casters of some sort, that have come under the influence of the posters. Since we have dispel magic scrolls, we could probably release some people with it. If we can get close enough to the speaking podium to cast the silence spells on the speakers, that will probably help. Meanwhile, while we're making our way into the arena, everyone should be checking things out as they can to see if there are other thigns afoot. We'll start off by observing people as they come in. We'll probably need to imitate what they are doing. " AS he is talking, Rond puts on the hat of difference. He drops his height to about 6', and ages his hair and face, so that he looks around a 50 year old. "For those that can, slight modifications to looks would probably be appropriate. Any other ideas?"
Calling All Coins... (DM Donna) Friday October 5th, 2001 4:58:08 PM
Renik is told by Marcus--via the coin--that each team remains where it is assigned, and since the A Team didn't express a preference, then they will be assigned to cover the East section of the Golden Arena. Teams B, C and D will then cover the South, West and North sections respectively.
Ferrak takes the shoes from Rond, eyeing the apparel curiously and sniffing them...for a rather long time. Eventually the wild gnome stuffs them into his backpack--in the topmost part for easy retrieval should he need to put them on, and follows along with the rest of his new "pack", Darkfang trotting along by his side.
Knowing that not being recognized is the key to this operation, the various basic precautions are enough to keep the Hamleteers from being noticed by the people gravitating towards the Arena. Only a few here and there... but they are definitely approaching the Arena with the intention of going into the building.
And the numbers of people doing so gradually increase as the sun completely disappears and the moons of the Wold glow baleful over the Golden Arena.
Bill Troublefinder Friday October 5th, 2001 8:36:29 PM
Bill picks up rocks on the way, placing them in a bag... "By the way, you can call me 'Lake' while I'm in this guise."
Gullion (Renik) d20+7=8 Saturday October 6th, 2001 1:05:51 PM
Renik, realising that disguise is likely to be helpful, pops on the tatty garments and cap of Gullion. His transformation is rushed and shoddy, however, and frankly doesn't look very convincing (natural 1!). He hopes he will have time to stop and do a better job before having to face the guards...
Bill Troublefinder Sunday October 7th, 2001 1:32:40 PM
"Renik, your own mother would recognize you. Oh, well, of course she would. Let me help you." Bill uses his own kit of disguise to help Renik in a makeover. [Donna, I'll let you figure out how to roll this one.]
Draax Sunday October 7th, 2001 3:14:48 PM
Draax changes his appearance to be a young human male dressed in plain garb that he noticed some on the citizens wearing when he first entered the city. He leaves his height, weight and built the same, thinking that if the arena is as crowded as he thinks it will be, so any one who might touch him will not get suspicious by noticing that what they feel does not match up with what they see. After he completes his transformation, he heads to the arena with the others.
Arien d20+4=23 Sunday October 7th, 2001 7:05:50 PM
After a moment of thought Arien decides to use a disguise different from his working one and goes to work. He dons his old heavy cloak over his clothes to disguise them and then turns his attention to his face. He winds a bandage about his head and covers one eye with it. Then he ties a bandana about the top of his head and scuffs some dirt on his face.
The over all effect is that of an elven sell-sword who is a bit down on his luck.
Turning to his companions Arien smirks and says, "Well, let's do this."
Sunblaze-Sontra Sunday October 7th, 2001 7:31:08 PM
Sunblaze takes some of her make-up and puts it all over her visable body. Her skin turns a darkish brown. Then she places the kilt (of gender reversal) on, and becomes Sontra once more.
He smiles walking forward, quickly and calmly. His eyes seem to watch in front of him only.
Ferrak (from an internet cafe with a crap keyboard) d100=7 Monday October 8th, 2001 1:51:51 AM
Trying his best to understand the situation he has found himself in, Ferrak is making the best of his time by just listening and trying to learn from the others.
All of the disguises that are being used initially causes some confusion with the wild gnome. Especially when Sunblaze changes her sex. He spends some time sniffing around everyone to make sure that his nose isn't playing tricks on him.
He learned from Korous Shwanger, his Druid mentor, not to smell other people too closely, as it is not as acceptable a custom with bi-peds.
Still confused, but not wanting to appear strange, Ferrak decides to take all of this behaviour as normal with this new pack. Wondering how he and Darkfang will fit in with these strange acting creatures, Ferrak tries to respond to some of what has been said.
"I also can make a swarggm of, of small creatures" hesitating to think of the right words. "To help magke con-fu-jon."
Then, to show rather than say, he begins juggling moon, star, and wolf shaped images of light that appear in his hands. (I rolled for my arcane prestidigitation check failure and of course blew it 7. Can you give it to me for roleplaying's sake?)
"My birthpack wergg also, 'bi-peds'." He says regretfully as he strokes Darkfang's thick coat of black fur. "One day I will find who destroyed them and..."
The growls that he begins to make, speak volumes at that point.
Go, Go, Go! (DM Donna) Monday October 8th, 2001 6:36:43 AM
Bill quickly and efficiently helps Renik look a bit more convincing. Ferrak's prestidigitation takes everyone by surprise, but it actually helps to ease the considerable tension that had been building up. This particular mission--mostly because you all have no real idea what the SoD have in mind, only that it is NOT good--had been ratcheting up nerves. The wild gnome's simple acceptance of the circumstances seems to help everyone else settle themselves into their appointed task.
Everyone is now disguised... except Ferrak and Darkfang, who probably don't need to do so, since nobody in the SoD has ever seen them before. Equipment has been packed, magic items disbursed and a general sort of strategy worked out. All that remains is for the party to get over to the Arena, so off they go!
Many bipeds on the prowl tonight, big brother, Darkfang says in a whine of unease, Whole packs... and they all have the scent of badbrite on them, too...
(OOC: "Badbrite" is Darkfang's reference to behavior-altering magic, the presence of which has always unnerved animals.)
The number of people hurrying toward the Golden Arena only increases as you all wind your way through the streets of Plateau City. Renik's coin buzzes softly with in incoming message.
"By the gods--there are more people here already than anyone possibly thought could be affected!" Marcus' voice announces. "All teams proceed as planned--but use *extreme* caution!
Just as you arrive at the Arena, you can all see your very first obstacle to getting inside the place: a trio of robed mages, greeting the new arrivals. Darkfang growls low in his throat, his hackles rising as he instantly recognizes at least two of them as the ones he and Ferrak tracked all the way from their home territory.
"Welcome, one and all--inside you will find salvation! Hurry--hurry..!" the mages call. The moons continue to rise as the throngs only increase and push eagerly forward, drawing the Hamleteers ever closer to Sons of Dread by the entrance...
Renik d20=5 Monday October 8th, 2001 11:27:12 AM
Ah well, thinks the spy to himself, the moment of truth. Will they be able to pass undetected past the guards? He tries to look inconspicuous as he saunters past the guards (Above roll is for a Bluff check... uh oh...).
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Monday October 8th, 2001 2:42:37 PM
Sontra sees the large number of people, amazing how they got so many so quickly. Even with the machine sent to a strange world, that he wasn't familiar with. He considers unsheathing his sword to stop so many people from creating the dark evil they are going to, but then hears the book in his mind.
'A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is arrogant and careless joins them.'
Then in the back of Sunblaze's mind something else grabs her attention. She may be more understanding and wiser, but she still is the aloof elf she always was.
'She is more precious than rubies, and all the things thou can desire are not to be compared unto her.'
Sontra's eyes avert from the crowd, towards Renik's attempts to walk past the guards, without looking strange. As he stares at them, letting them notice him, Sontra hands Trent to Ferrak.
"If I get lost, get Trent to lead you to me." He hopes that he will do it, but even if he doesn't, Sontra can find Trent, it'll just be harder.
She grabs a random person, holding them in front of her. Then, while Renik has gotten the guards' attention, Sontra's hands move in Sync with the magic around, and his words, although quiet, pierce the magic like a blade. He attempts to undo the charm on the commoner and place his own upon him (Charm Person: DC: 14[10+1, spell level+3, Int Mod).
If her spell is true and the magic runs into the person he tells him to run towards the Wizards and try to push them down. After that, Sontra tries to catch up with the group, using Trent as a guide.
Abandon Hope, All Ye Who Enter Here (DM Donna) d20=19 Monday October 8th, 2001 6:20:46 PM
The party is swept slowly but inexorably towards the entrance by the eager crowd pressing to get into the Golden Arena. The mages urge the people on with smiles that the Hamleteers find mocking--it's too bad everyone else in the the crowd can't seem to see the truth.
"Wha..? Are you mad???" the man that Sontra/Sunblaze attempted to Charm gasps in extreme shock, pulling away from the disguised spy. "If I do that, I may miss out on my own salvation!" (OOC: sorry, Sunblaze--he rolled a 19 on the save.) The man runs all the faster into the Arena.
"Say...you can't bring that dog in here!" one of the mages--a half-elf--says to Ferrak. One of his fellows, an elven wizard, immediately lifts his staff...
...and brings it sharply down on the half-elf's foot. The half-elf howls.
"Pay him NO heed, good sir..." the elf says hastily and with emphasis over the half-elf's yelps, "...he's my bastard brother--and everyone in the family knows he's a half-wit!"
"Now wait a minute--" the half elf protests.
"Shut up, you moron!" the elf hisses out of the corner of his mouth, then turns that patently false smile onto Ferrak and the rest of you. "All are welcome who seek salvation--no soul will be turned away!"
Hmmm...something about the way the elf stresses the word "soul" definitely has a sinister double entendre to it. The scowling half-elf's face suddenly clears in understanding at the mention of "soul".
"Ohhhhh...riiiiiight..!" the half-elf says, though he winces as he tries to stand on the foot his colleague crushed. "Of course the nice doggie can go inside..!"
Before anything else can happen, the Hamleteers are pushed along into the vast hallway of the Arena and are soon out of sight of the trio of mages at the doorway. The current of the crowd eases up enough so that the Hamleteers can draw to one side and pause by one wall to further plot their next actions.
Gullion (Renik) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 5:55:54 AM
"Did I not like that! I have a nasty feeling those guards recognized us, or at least some of us, and yet they let us in anyway! They must be supremely confident..." Renik is becoming rather concerned at the sheer scale of the crowd, but decides that pointless fretting is not going to get the job done. "Well, trap or no, we have a job to do! Any suggestions, fearless leader? Do we begin our subterfuge now, or wait until the ceremony is underway?" Once plans are hatched, he heads with the others towards their assigned position.
Getting Into Position (DM Donna) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 6:56:46 AM
Once more Renik's coin buzzes for attention. Once the man draws it forth, the voice of Marcus (strangely interspersed with static) is heard:
"A Team, we can see--sssshhhkk!--lot more than anticipated--kssshhhhh--be best if you moved--zzzzzt--ringside seats, the better to see what's happening. Repeat: A Team, move yourselves down to ringsi--shshshshshsh--at's happening. Marcus out.
"Hurry, hurry!" one passing woman urges her elven companion excitedly as they sweep past the party. "It's almost midnight!"
Gullion (Renik) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 8:45:16 AM
"That was Marcus!" Hisses Renik to his companions. He wants us at ringside seats, and quick! Lets's move!" He pushes his way through the crowd, ensuring that the others are coming too, and makes for the nearest vacant ringside seats he can find. "Well, at least it looks like we'll have a good view!" he grins at the companion nearest him. His flipancy does little to ease the growing sense of worry he feels, however. His fingers search out the vial of Illusion dust hidden in the folds of his robe. What next? he wonders. The more he sees, the more it looks like the Sons of Dread are holding all the cards...
Draax (disguised as a young human) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 12:48:39 PM
Hearing Renik declare Marcus' wishes, Draax begins to forcible move toward the front, making a way for himself and the others as he goes. "Excuse me. Pardon me. Sorry, oh I did not mean to push, but it’s almost midnight. " Draax continues to make his way forward, offering apologies to anyone that he unceremoniously throws or knocks out of his way.
Ladeeeeeeez and Gentlemen..! (DM Donna) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 5:46:34 PM
The Arena is a marvel of construction. It has 3 tiers and seems to rise up to the sky. The noise created by the acoustics of the place is amazing. Someone standing at either end, or in the center of the place, can be heard easily throughout the place with an unaided voice.
The party maneuvers into front seats. It's obvious that with these crowds like they are, they'll need to be near the floor or at least the edge of the first balcony if they want to stand a chance to upset anything that goes on.
The very large “tent meeting” begins with a surprise. The High Priestess of Karinthis comes out and welcomes everyone.
"I am honored to be the first priestess of a God of Wold to welcome the Cult Gods into our midst..!" she announces in a clear, beautiful voice. "There is room for all gods and faiths in New Elenna and the prejudice towards Cult Followers has been an evil blight upon our land! Let this be proof that The One is kind and generous and worthy of worship..!" She tosses a few coins into the air and the sky rains thousands of silver pieces into the crowd. The delighted audience members snap up the coins, and--in their eagerness--almost miss the entrance of a choir of women all wearing golden masks.
"In honor of The One who, in her beauty, we thrive," the newly-switched High Priestess declares, "...and in whose footsteps we walk, we offer up this song." The Masked Chorus sings a song of loss and wonder, of hidden beauty that lies outside and reveals the treasure within. They sing of showing to the world the wonders are are and will be.
Everyone in the bleechers responds with thunderous applause.
Bill Troublefinder (aka Lake) d20+3=20 d20+3=13 d20+3=7 Tuesday October 9th, 2001 5:57:30 PM
Bill moves his hands as though clapping, but his hands fall a couple of millimeters short of actually striking and making a noise. He stands up on the ledge in front of the seats, and looks up smiling into the crowd, his face apparently joyful at the pageantry unfolding. His eyes sweep briefly over the faces of those above, looking to see if there are any Sons of Dread he might recognize. (Three sweeping glances, with his eyes going back to the arena in between, at DC 20, 13, and 7.)
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Tuesday October 9th, 2001 9:54:49 PM
Sontra, watches the crowd gather at the stadium and hurries herself along with the group. As he sits down, he feels uneasy by being there. Almost as if she was disgracing Patriarch Oratai by mearly being here.
"Patriarch forgive me." He looks at the speaker with a desire to get her from here. He knows it probably wouldn't do any good alone, then she recalls a comment heard from her old master.
'Only the foolish charge into battle. The wise plan, prepare and then, when the time is right they strike the heart of the enemy.'
He sits, not clapping his hands, but more pretending to be striken with the woman, not taking his eyes off her. He smiles, ever so faintly, bringing a thought to his mind. In the end they could stop whomever they wished, if all the groups worked together.
Arien d20+7=15 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 12:55:14 AM
While pretending to clap along with the crowd Arien scans the crowd as best he can for the other groups without attracting any undue attention to himself or them. Once satisfied that he knows where the other three teams are at he returns his attention to the spectacle unfolding below in the arena. (Spot check vs DC 15)
Gullion (Renik) d20+4=8 d20+4=14 d20+4=11 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 5:52:21 AM
Renik too ensures that both friend and foe are visible in the crowd(Spot 8, 14 and 11) but keeps the main focus of his attention on the events unfolding in the arena. The High Priestess of Karinthis? He doesn't know too much about religion, but he is pretty sure that the presence of representatives of the Goddess of Wealth doesn't fit with what he knows about the Sons of Dread. What in Mittiri's name is going on here?
On With the Show (DM Donna) Wednesday October 10th, 2001 6:49:41 AM
The sharp eyes of the Hamleteers do not discern wherever the other teams in the other sections, although it is most likely that they, too, are occupying seats closest to the action on the stage.
Bill, however, notes that the number of SoD members spread throughout the Arena sections have diminished considerably...actually, that there are NO mages amongst the audience, only the hired swords. Even as the copper drops, however, a fanfare presages the appearance of the next part of the festivities.
Next the Sons of Dread take the stage. They wear their traditional robes. They gather around an altar...an altar that looks familiar. (OOC: Everyone make a Willpower save versus DC10--add your character's Spot score to the roll as well.)
With a wave of their hands, the torches and lights within the crowd are extinguished and a green glow surrounds each of them. The assembled Sons of Dread begin a chant--one whose cadence and tone sound chillingly identical to the one that was heard by the party inside the pyramid.
"Let us pray unto the Dark One...the Lord of Dread! The Master of the Rings of Ascension. The Dark Lord. Give of your soul to him and feel his blessing this dreadful night..!" they begin their prayer.
The crowd, for the most part, now seems utterly enthralled by the sonorous chanting.
Renik's coin signals an incoming message.
"--kssshhh--is Team C...zztzztzzt...no mages in the crow--sshhhhhhk--oing to use the dark to sneak dow--ssshhhhhhtzzzz." comes the whispered message.
Ferrak (Still using crap cafe.) d20=10 d20=16 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 7:29:25 AM
(Will save-10, I forget my stats)
Feeling extremely (crowdaphobic?), Ferrak tries to find a way under the stage.(Search-16)
After briefly introducing himself to the small snake that was handed to him, Ferrak makes sure to give it back to Sunblaze before he goes to investigate the stage.
"Darkfang" he growls, "Let us find shelter away from all of these overgrown, two-legged, stumblers."
Draax (disguised as a young human) d20+1=21 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 8:47:12 AM
Draax suppresses a shiver as a chill runs through his body upon hearing the chanting. Noticing the altar (rolled natural 20) Draax realizes that the reason for the gathering revealed soon. Draax tries to mimic the enthralled expression of the rest of the crowd as he begins to study the look and the outfits of the individual gathered around the altar. Knowing that his group as well as the others have a few surprises ready, Draax waits for his chance.
Gullion (Renik) d20+3=9 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 12:08:55 PM
Renik stares at the stage, and is enthralled. He begins to lose himself in the moment (failed Will save!) as the mages gather around their unholy altar. He struggles to clear his mind, to bring himself back to full alertness, but finds he cannot.
Rond (Carl) d20=12 d20=10 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 12:14:37 PM
(Made will save) Rond looks to his companions and whispers urgently "Stay sharp, people! We may have to move swiftly at any moment! He fails to notice the glassy look in Renik's eye (Spot check 10+bonus).
Bill Troublefinder d20+11=30 d20+3=15 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 2:22:20 PM
[Forgot to add +3 Spot score to roll - should be 33!]
"Blessing my feet!" Bill mumbles under his breath. "Curse is more like it. I've gotta get that ring back." Bill surreptiously pulls out his wand, and casts levitate upon himself. He also casts it, separately, on his backpack. [OOC note/query: I believe the spell won't affect the stuff inside the bag of holding.]
He steps over to Renik. "Hearin' anything there?" [DC 15 to notice Renik's glassy stare - assuming 15 is enough...] "Hey, Gulli - wake up." Bill slaps his new comrade on the cheek. "Snap outta it, fella. Don't give your soul to that - that bad person." If Renik does not respond, and seems passive, Bill sees if he can take the coin from him. "A team, here. There's a mass charm or somethin' goin' on." He looks around to see if some of his other friends seem to be affected. He thinks now is the time to act, before too many fall too deeply under the spell. "Draax - you with us?" He sees the expression on his friend's face, but seems satisfied when he notes that intelligence has not fled his eyes.
The halfling then scans the audience to see if any others (not party members) appear unaffected by the powerful effects of the ritual. He wonders if he might be able to enlist them - maybe get people moving out of the stadium. Don't want so many around if the Sons' invocation is effective.
Mem'ries...Light the Corners of Your Mind... (DM Donna) Wednesday October 10th, 2001 4:33:58 PM
Renik blinks rapidly, definitely thankful that the halfling snapped him to his senses. However, it occurs to the Hamleteers that the "altar" is actually an illusion--and it is only their previous contact with that Infernal Copy Machine that makes them all recognize that the artifact with the illusionary overlay on it is a larger version--and one that does NOT require the victim to be strapped into it for it to work!
The robed Sons of Dread continue their sinister litany...
(Two more rolls required of all the party members: a Spellcraft/Psicraft skill check versus DC11 to identify the artifact and its function; the second roll is a Spot roll vs. DC15. Those making the Spot check will notice that the crowd is beginning to sway in unison...and even begin to glow greenish-white around their edges.)
Bill Troublefinder d20+10=13 d20+3=8 d20+9=23 d20+15=29 Wednesday October 10th, 2001 8:31:33 PM
[Spell/Psicraft 13] Bill says, "It's a giant soul-sucker! It must be from Ravenloft, too!" He pulls out his tindertwigs. He hands a batch of ten to Renik, another to Rond, another to Draax. "Give some to Sontra and Arien. Scratch these on the ground - they light up." He hands out four sticks. "These are smokesticks. Spread out and light them." He hands a pair of stones, one to Arien, one to Sontra. "Thunderstones," he says without further explanation. He doesn't notice the swaying of the crowd [Spot 8], but after he saw Renik start to glaze over he knows he's gotta do something to break people's focus. "Start knocking people down, or somethin'! Tell them to flee."
I've deleted part of this post because you have Bill doing too much too soon...for now, it should suffice that you're preparing to stage diversions. ~~DM Donna
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Wednesday October 10th, 2001 10:22:04 PM
Sontra while Bill hands out things, quickly fires a detect magic spell out, checking the arena for anything else, magical, of course. He grabs the items and grabs the Thunderstone. He sticks his Wand(Of Summon Monster 1) up his sleeve.
Once more, I've deleted part of this post because casting a Detect Magic spell--as well as listening to Bill and grabbing up the extra items--are plenty of things to do for one post.
Gullion (Renik) d20+2=6 Thursday October 11th, 2001 4:11:48 AM
It is with enormous gratitude that Renik receives his slaps from Bill Troublefinder. Another few instants of that hypnotic energy and... "My thanks, Mr T!" he grins with relief, grabbing the twigs and thunderstones, and moves along the front of the crowd creating smoke, distracting explosions and as much noise as he can. He hopes that the rising smoke at the front of the arena will block the view of many of those further back. Not being too clever at matters mystical he has little idea of the nature of what he is fighting, and in his determination to distract the crowd he fails to notice the depth of the trance they have sunk into.
Rond (Carl) d20=13 Thursday October 11th, 2001 7:21:09 AM
"A giant soul sucker? The Altar?" Rond thinks furiously, every second counts now. The team are splitting up, trying to distract the crowd, but the sheer weight of numbers and the depth of their trance (Spot check 13+bonus)... they need to attack the source of this abomination with everything they have, and now, before it succeeds in its unholy task. He clambers into the arena itself. "To me, Hamleteers!" he cries, "The altar! Destroy the altar!"
Everyone's A-Glow! (DM Donna) Thursday October 11th, 2001 8:43:52 AM
Bill Troublefinder lives up to his hallowed name once more--for he deduces that the "altar" is actually a dreaded Soulforge from Ravenloft...a device that channels lifeforce from one target into another. Even though Bill's first instinct is for diversions, the halfling realizes Rond's very astute grasp of the situation becomes abyssmally evident:
Ephemeral bits of mist begin to rise from each and every person in the Arena...including the Hamleteers! You feel a quick wave of nausea and then a wonderful feeling of rapture along with a little weakness from the experience. (Everyone must make a Willpower save versus DC11 to combat the euphoric feelings this effect is giving you. If you're euphoric, you don't bother to do anything but luxuriate in the feelings.)
Gullion (Renik) d20+1=5 Thursday October 11th, 2001 9:42:29 AM
Hearing Rond's words and seeing the ephemeral outpouring of the crowd, Renik realises that this crisis is coming to a head. He makes to vault over the barrier to enter the arena itself, but as he does so he is overcome by a sensation of overwhelming peace and ecstacy (WHAT is going on with this dice roller?!? Aargh!)
He stumbles to a halt, wide eyed and slack jawed, feeling waves of indescribable pleasure wash over him.
Rond (Carl) d20=6 Thursday October 11th, 2001 9:46:58 AM
The hamleteer's leader is also ensnared by the spell that is cast over the crowd. (Will save 6 +bonus: Donna, I assume Rond's bonus is not 5 or more). His brave charge towards the source of the horror peters out, and he stands, swaying slightly, a blissful smile upon his lips.
Bill Troublefinder d20+10=17 d20+4=5 d20+4=6 d20+4=20 d20+4=6 d20+4=11 d20+4=20 Thursday October 11th, 2001 11:41:49 AM
The strong-willed little fellow resists [Will 17] the urge to give in to the pull of the cursed device. He looks carefully at his companions, and kicks the shins or slaps any who look like they are succumbing to the powerful allure -- thinking pain an appropriate antidote to the numbing pleasure. Well, that is his plan, but he falls down when trying to do so to Rond, misses him on his second attempt, then in frustration finally butts his head into Rond's solar plexus. He likewise misses Renik twice, and finally kicks his shin on the third attempt.
Assuming this action helps break the enchantment, he says, "Let's go, guys!" Bill scoots along the edge of the arena floor, rather than charging down the middle. -------- [OOC: Donna, I am assuming that, at the rate events are progressing in the Arena, that each post is covering more than a minute. Some have covered longer than that. So, I hope this posting does not try to cover too much.]
Draax d20=7 Thursday October 11th, 2001 12:20:39 PM
Draax takes the tindertwigs and listens to Rond and Bill identify the device being used by the SoDs. At Rond's command to destroy the device, Draax puts his hand to his sword and takes a step toward the Altar. Just before he could change his appearance, he stops and starts to enjoy the pleasant emotion that he is feeling (failed save).
Oh, What a Feeling..! (DM Donna) d20+5=23 d20=15 Thursday October 11th, 2001 5:06:13 PM
The Hamleteers find out the hard way that, while the spirit is (initially) willing, the flesh is weak. It's a good thing that Bill, plus the newcomers Ferrak and his wolf Darkfang, are able to throw off the siren call of the Soulforge. All three of them alternately hit, kick and/or bite (that one is the wolf!) the enthralled members of the party, thus snapping everyone out of their trances.
Just as the party is, once more, galvanized to attempt to storm the stage and get to that Soulforge, the chorus of The One breaks into an impromptu song, adding sweet counterpoint to the fell chanting of the Sons of Dread. The Soulforge blazes an unholy green hue, fed by the ethereal, misty glowing lifeforces being drained by the enraptured audience, which shouts and cries its deceptive ecstasy in an ever-increasing cacophony.
And then the deafening crackle of thunder splits the sky. A voice, booming and bold pierces the screams and the singing and the chaos.
"I have heard you. Your devotion to me makes me proud to be……YOUR GOD!"
A 50’ tall being, perfect of form and shape appears in the center of the arena floating about 100’ above the arena floor. His hair is on fire. His boots are covered with ice. He is dressed in black. His face is a black skull. There is one huge red diamond in one eye.
“I am The Dark Lord, MARTEAUS! I accept your worship!”
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=24 Thursday October 11th, 2001 5:23:52 PM
With his knowledge of religion (DC 24), Bill prays to The Jericho. "Send us aid against this Foul One. Do not leave us undefended." Though he be willing to run up, or float up, as it were, and kick Marteaus in the shins, or even higher, such an action would be in vain. They faced Marteaus before, and that not long ago. His incredible power then has obviously grown to the current display. He thinks about the Water Ring of Ascension, and figures he must have the Fire, Ice, and Air Rings, too. Was there an Earth Ring? Bill wishes he knew more. The hobbit resists as much as he can the ongoing pull of the Soul Forge, not wanting to contribute a drop of his essence toward the evil power who floats above. He distains, not worships, this Punisher of the Gods, and thinks about spitting on the earth before him, but then decides not to waste the spit. What shall, what can, he and his friends do against such, if help from a greater power not show?
Rond (Carl) Thursday October 11th, 2001 5:54:49 PM
Rond's jaw drops in utter horror at the apparition above them. Thinking fast he realises there is only one thing they can do now. Marteaus is WAY out of their league, but perhaps that altar is the key, and in the confusion of Marteaus' sudden manifestation...
"Get that accursed altar and smash it! NOW!" he yells, as he renews his charge across the arena.
Renik Thursday October 11th, 2001 5:58:58 PM
Renik simply cannot believe his eyes. He didn't sign on for this! Did he?! He's a spy, not a Dragon! He can't fight a God! He is suddenly very, very afraid.
Rond's words snap him back into action. "Altar! Got it! Right behind you, boss man!" He begins to sprint towards the altar, rapier drawn, attempting to drown out the overwhelming sense of terror he feels with mindless action.
Ferrak d20=19 d8=5 d8=4 Thursday October 11th, 2001 7:40:42 PM
Ferrak's response to the unatural events around him is primal. Not understanding the specific details of what is happening doesn't Prevent Ferrak from knowing that this is very, very, wrong.
Barking and growling at the giant creature that has appeared Ferrak call his brother to him.
"Darkfang, we must destroy the evil!" he growls out menacingly. Ready to take on the monstrosity head to head.
Then he hears the apparent Alpha of this pack call for the destruction of the altar.
Leaping on to Darkfang's back he urges his lupine brother to attack. Readying his spear as the two become like one in the blur of a powerful charge.
(19+bonuses must be a hit on the altar when I have the chance! Then I rolled d8 twice for the damage of the spirited charge. I wish I had my stat sheet with me. Could you work out the damage for me I'll have my machine up by next week. Thanks.)
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+4=7 d20+4=5 d20+4=8 Thursday October 11th, 2001 7:42:52 PM
Sontra's relaxed state almost got him trapped, yet when he's kicked he jumps up. Looking to Rond, his eyes flash. Remembering something that was said about Rings of Elements, almost reading Bill's mind, he attempts to recall everything he heard about Marteaus, The Sons of Dread and the rings (In that order, Bardic Knowledge: 7, 5, 8! Stupid Roller, but maybe the Donna could throw me a bone? heh).
"Find out what groups are left around and on your way down kick or stab people if you can." His words, not an order, but a suggestion, although somewhat harsh. [Only if I can still get to the altar with the group, if not then he just runs.] He runs, towards the altar. Whipping out his Longsword and running it along people who are on the ground.
Arien d20+10=21 Thursday October 11th, 2001 9:42:29 PM
Arien is torn from the feelings of ecstasy by the sharp nip of the wolf oh his hand. Then as his thoughts rush back to the present he hear's Rond's shouts and agrees wholeheartedly. Charging forward Arien leaps into the arena, tucking his shoulder under as he hits the ground Arien rolls and comes right back to his feet and resumes racing to the altar. (Tumbling Check: 21)
Draax Thursday October 11th, 2001 10:40:33 PM
Shaking off the enchantment Draax notices Marteaus floating in the air, he almost wishes that they had left him in his stupid/happy state. "Great, just great, is this guy going to cause us trouble for the rest of our lives?" Thinking just how short period of time the rest of their lives might be, Draax decides to at least go out fighting. Draax slips a dagger in each hand and joins the others as he rushes the stage changing his appearance to resemble the robe wearing individuals gathered around the altar.
Kim - OOC note Friday October 12th, 2001 3:01:52 AM
[We go to try to destroy the ALTAR. Not alter. Well, I suppose we are going to try to alter the altar. An altar is a piece of religious furniture for placing offerings, or a focus of worship. To alter is to change things. So, alter your spelling of altar. - Kim the amateur dictionary, mumbling to himself after changing the spelling in other posts at least five times.]
OOC from the DM Friday October 12th, 2001 6:40:31 AM
I know you're all getting excited, and we HAVE been posting twice a day (when possible)...*BUT* please remember you get only ONE post between DM posts. I deleted Kim's second post because of that.
Now...on with our story...
Chaaaaaaarge...! (DM Donna) Friday October 12th, 2001 7:06:36 AM
Rond galvanizes his fellow Hamleteers and, just about as one, you all rush the stage--only to have their way blocked by the sudden appearance of ten weapon-wielding mercenaries...a few of whom Bill recognizes. (Nothing special, really--Bill simply knows some faces and names.)
Darkfang and Ferrak have to pull up a bit short or run headlong into one human in chainmail. (Ferrak roll a Ride check versus DC15 or fall off Darkfang and suffer 4hp damage.)
Arien tumbles himself practically nose-to-nose with a muscular half-orc dressed in simple, loose clothing, who strikes a bare-handed, martial-arts type pose.
Sontra/Sunblaze's first contact with his sword comes right up against a tall, heavyset minotaur in a breastplate and bearing a huge shield. Sparks fly...literally!
As one, the mercenaries grin at the party, taunting you with their smug, silent conviction that this is one fight that the Hamleteers cannot even hope to win.
(My gift to you: you guys get initiative. Use this gift wisely...)
Bill Troublefinder d20+4=19 d4=3 d20+9=29 d20+9=19 d20+9=25 Friday October 12th, 2001 11:05:19 AM
Bill takes advantage of his boots (and finds himself thinking how strange it is to have his toes surrounded by leather) to speed himself forward at a run. Hoping to catch a segment of the mercenaries without getting his friends, he goes to the right side of the mercenaries, landing so as to catch as many as he can with a psionic stomp [DC 19 - those who fail their save in a 5'x20'x20' horizontal cone fall down, with 3 hp (or 1d4 if you choose individually) subdual damage. If the two sides were opposed like football teams, think of Bill as coming in just about where his right end would be, and getting as much of the opposing front line and linebackers as he can]. On the rebound, his boots thrust him up and into the air over the Forge, relying on his levitation to reach and sustain altitude. He throws two flasks of holy water down to splash upon the Forge [AC 29 - don't know if you can crit hit with holy water :-) and 19. Just in case you can crit hit, AC 25 for the crit splash?]. A corner of his mind thinks back to when he and his friends would engage in target practice with rocks. "*Alemi, can't you send this damned machine back to Ravenloft?*" he pray-thinks. The adjective he applies to the machine is no profanity, but rather an accurate description of its purpose, origin and destiny.
Renik (Dodge, Mobility) d20+9=14 d6+5=8 Friday October 12th, 2001 11:55:19 AM
If Bill's actions cause sufficient disruption in the mercenary ranks to allow him to continue his run towards the altar Renik keeps going (Mobility feat to add +4 to AC vs AoO, Dodge +1 AC vs nearest. can't remember if these stack). If he reaches the altar he will try to topple it or damage it in any way he can. (8 HP damage with rapier vs AC 14)
If he is unable to pass the mercenaries he lunges at the nearest with his rapier hitting AC14 (8 HP damage if it connects). He then attempts to avoid any return attack by weaving and bobbing (Dodge +1 AC vs that opponent).
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Friday October 12th, 2001 4:15:30 PM
"RUN! WE CANNOT WIN!" With that he charges into the warriors in front, like Renik and attemps to run to it. If he cannot make it he gets as far back as possible and fires on a charge from his wand.(Summon Monster 1, Random monster). Telling it to attack the smallest of their enemies.
And They All Fall Down... (DM Donna) d20=12 d20=12 d20=16 d20=14 d20+2=3 d20+2=15 d20+2=18 d20+4=9 d20=16 d20=18 d20=6 d20=10 d20=3 d20=16 d20=16 d20=13 d6=2 d6=4 d4=2 Friday October 12th, 2001 4:37:19 PM
The mercenaries in front of Bill all fall down--hooray! The way between you and the stage is clear!
Suddenly, from behind the Hamleteers come sailing a hail of missiles--arrows, bolts and a couple sling bullets. Most of them miss the Hamleteers, although one arrow grazes Bill (2hp dam), another sinks into Arien's forearm (4hp dam) and a bullet bonks Rond on the head (2hp dam.) The party whirls to see eight more mercenaries behind them. Six of the mercenaries seize various rapt audience members.
"Stop where you are--" one rather misshapen human male demands with a snarl, "--or these poor, innocent idiots get it!" Knives and daggers are whipped out and held against the hostages.
Bill recognizes the speaker as "Handsome Dan", a particularly nasty assassin who claimed to have killed an entire family all by himself, from aged grandmother to mewling newborn.
Even as the Hamleteers are faced with their dilemma, events continue to unfold in the middle of the Golden Arena:
Marteaus floats over to the "altar"--the Soul Forge. He lands on the altar and raises his hands into the air.
“I FEEL YOUR JOY! I FEEL YOUR FEAR! I TAKE YOUR GIFTS OF PRAISE! I ACCEPT YOUR OBEDIENCE! YESSS!!”
It is obvious that the glowing vapors coming from the crowd are increasing in intensity. Marteaus is growing and glowing. He’s taking all this life force in as personal power. He may indeed become a god from this, if he isn't one already! The huge entity laughs--a triumphant sound that engulfs the entire party in despair.
"You have given to me, my fine chattel... so now I grant you all the privilege of giving me the ultimate gift... your lives!!!"
The Sons of Dread--who are also absorbing energy from the Soul Forge--suddenly begin to scream and writhe, their very skin bulging and bubbling as they are drawing in more power than any mortal was ever meant to bear. One of the dread wizards explodes...another’s face runs as though made of freshly-melted sealing wax. The rest hold on shaking with the energy in them.
"Ahhhh... yes! YES! The Wold... is... mine..!!!" Now the neo-god's laughter is as nerve-shattering thunder... even the mercenaries clutch their hostages all the tighter in nervous surprise at THIS turn of events.
"I don't think so, Marteaus! I would be remiss with in my duties as the god of courage if I let this fiasco continue..." The voice that interrupts the Dark Lord's soliloquy is calm, firm--the voice of a reasonable speaking man... yet, for all that, the soft tone completely cuts through the mad laughter of the would-be god. A pale blue light shines down from the heavens like a spotlight. Then appearing on the floor in wrestling attire is a muscular human man--the speaker who dared interrupt the evil entity's ceremony. The man speaks again:
"Prepare, therefore, to meet your doom, upstart -- for I am DOMI!"
Bill Troublefinder Friday October 12th, 2001 5:59:23 PM
From next to Marteaus' leg, Bill shouts, "DOMI -- DOMI -- FIRST GET RID OF THIS SOUL-SUCKER MACHINE - HE'S KILLING PEOPLE WITH IT. IT'S FROM RAVENLOFT. GET RID OF THE SOUL FORGE!!!!" as he rises a little higher into the air. He knows his feeble supply of holy water ain't gonna touch it. "DOMI -- DESTROY THIS SOUL FORGE -- HE'S USING IT TO KILL PEOPLE -- SUCKING THEM DRY!!!"
And, not that it has much chance of working, but Bill sends a missive [0-level telepathic power] to the great warrior god, "Destroy The Soul Forge - it drains the people, powers Marteaus!"
Bill wishes he could fly a ways away, but there he is, right next to him. He wonders what it will feel like to be swatted by Marteaus. Oh! His darts. Or... Bill pulls out the rocks he gathered earlier, and starts throwing them away, using the thrust to send him toward the back of Marteaus' knee. If he gets close enough, he grabs on to the back of Marteaus' leg, and ascends as quickly as he can.
Arien d20+6=22 Friday October 12th, 2001 8:16:54 PM
Managing to ignore the arrow sticking out of his arm Arien finishes his spell and breathes a bit easier as the protective shielding of Mage Armor coats his body. (+4 to ac making ac now 19)
Draax Friday October 12th, 2001 10:23:20 PM
As Bill’s attack knocks the mercenaries off their feet, Draax quickly runs pass them. Still disguised as one of the robed chanters, Draax was hoping to get close enough to them to kill a few before they realized that he is a foe. He hesitates for half a second as he hears the threat from the assassin, but threatening to kill people that you plan to kill anyway is not much of a threat. Draax’s plan to blend in with the individuals around the altar suddenly goes awry as the SoDs begin to die from absorbing too much energy.
Draax stops and looks at the Dying SoDs and then the device wondering what he should do now, when he hears another power voice. He turns to look at DOMI and a smile comes to the disguised half-elf’s face. In a very soft whisper Draax says, “Now we are in business.”
The warrior turn back to the altar and for the first time he notices that Marteaus has landed on top of the altar. Draax also notices something that puts knots in his stomach; he is now standing in the direct line of fire between two beings that could destroy him with a thought. He slowly moves out of the god and the god-want-to-be fire lane and moves to the side of the altar. He takes a quick glance at the remaining SoDs around the altar dismissing them as already dead. He takes his grapple hook with rope out of his back pack. Draax thinks to himself, ‘If I can hook it maybe I can pull it over on its side.’
The nervous half-elf braces himself as he get ready to try and hook the device.
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Saturday October 13th, 2001 4:41:23 AM
Sontra, seeing what Draxx is trying to do, runs at him. He hears DOMI's voice, but ignores it slightly, knowing that he needs to focus. He couldn't ever focus. A smile comes to his face as he snatches the hook from Draxx running towards the Soul Forge.
He runs to the far end of it, hooking the grappling hook onto the side, then looking up at Bill a smile crosses his face, then he screams out.
"Domi, bring forth the powers of your great world. Bring forth the strength and courage of the Hamleteers and slay Marteaus. The forge cannot go on, nor can Marteaus!" His voice, cracking and feeble, all this shouting has hurt his lungs. He looks towards this battle and unsheath's his sword.
[OOC: Domi better whup some major buttox, or I'll be a bit scared...Marteaus alone? I don't think so...]
Showdown in the Golden "O.K. Corral" Arena (DM Donna) Saturday October 13th, 2001 7:36:35 AM
A look of total terror appears on Marteaus’ face when the Dark-Lord-who'd-be-a-God realizes who's just appeared. Then this slowly turns into a grin.
"You're here too late, my old friend..." Marteaus emphasizes the word "old" with a sneer, "...what I have begun you cannot stop--in spite of the intended interference of your little pets!" With the most casual flick of his wrist, the ex-Punisher of the Gods causes the Hamleteers to suddenly be repositioned so that they--and their original eight foes--are on the far end of the stage. Marteaus addresses Domi, mockery rife in his tone:
"I will take the life force of these dregs of mortality--and in doing so will destroy this Arena and quite a large area around it. Such a tragedy..!" Here the boastful entity's voice takes on the coyness of a child bargaining for something that he truly believes will be awarded to him by his weak-willed parent. "...unless..."
"Unless..?" prompts the unimpressed Domi.
"Unless...unless you are willing to...even the odds a bit..?" wheedles Marteaus. "Just a bit. Everyone here knows no one can beat you at wrestling--you ARE the master...however...I'd be willing to try...why, I'm even willing to let these...people...live, if you would...oh, say...make an exchange on their behalf..? You know--save their souls, so to speak."
"What do you want, stripling?" Domi says, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Half of your power." Marteaus responds, sounding for all the Wold like he was requesting an ice cream cone. "Half of your power... plus what I've obtained here this evening should make things about even between us... old friend." Once again the Dark Lord insolently accents "old" as he speaks. "So what do you say? Will you trade half of your power for the lives of this pathetic rabble calling to you for help? Or shall the great god of courage do nothing, and let them die..?"
Domi looks at the faces of those who have worshipped him over the years and trusted in him to deliver them from conquest and war. He gazes upon those who have looked to him for courage and realizes he has to agree and teach the good Noble Races this hard lesson. Then he looks at this Punisher of the Gods gone wrong and feels sadness for him in his heart.
"I agree," Domi says with a nod, "... on one condition, my old friend: if I am victorious, you submit to my will and agree to be healed of this bitterness and envy that I see within your soul."
"And if I win," Marteaus counters, "These people will see what a wimp you are and will worship me?" Though phrased as a question, the Dark Lord's words ring with conviction, as though he were making a decree from the hearts of the many temples that would be dedicated to him.
"Agreed!" Domi says, a tendril of pale blue energy flowing from him to Marteaus. Marteaus looks huge compared to Domi. However, amidst an ever-increasing number of mystical energy arcs that dance all over both opponents, Domi grows to match his size and bulk.
Then the combatants begin to circle...feeling each other out...
Meanwhile, on the stage, the Sons of Dread are locked onto the Soul Forge, stuck fast in the middle of the process that is assimilating the lifeforces of all present...all save the group of eight thugs that stand between them and the Hamleteers. Two voices urge the diametrically-opposed sides:
"I shall tend to Marteaus, my children," Domi assures the party, "You save your fellow mortals!"
"What are you waiting for, you morons???" Marteaus's voice demands of the mercenaries. "KILL them!!!"
Ferrak d20+8=15 d20+9=13 Saturday October 13th, 2001 10:24:40 PM
Clinging tightly to Darkfangs fur, Ferrak and his wolf brother careen off of the chainmail clad mercenary. Rebounding recklessly the wild gnome is only just able to remain astride his brother. (Ride check-15)
With animalistic instinct and wolvish tenacity working for them, they are quick to recover as they circle out wide to go in for another charge. (Ride by attack.)
In the stillness of time; as the battle of the god beings rages around him, while the group is being transported by Marteaus, Ferrak recalls the lessons of his foster father Moonchaser. "When the hunt is on... strike hard, and strike fast my children. Weaken the prey before going in for the kill. Remember, the horns of the stag leave the foulest taste."
Silent and deadly, Ferrak and Darkfang once again race in for another charge. Working together instinctively to teach this human the lessons of their ancestors. (13+ 2 for the charge still misses I'm sure.) If able, the fast & feral pair will ride past again, confident in their tried and true wolven tactics.
Bill Troublefinder d20+4=24 d4=4 d20+9=18 d20=15 d20=8 d20=20 d20=15 d20=1 d6=4 d6=4 d20=17 d6=2 d20=17 d2=2 Sunday October 14th, 2001 1:35:22 AM
At the risk of being redundant, Bill stomps again. (Nat. 20! DC 24). Those in the area of effect (again, Bill aims to get as many opponents as he can, and tries for none of his friends) suffer 4 hp subdual (or 1d4, DM discretion), falling on their keisters. And again, wanting to stay out of the reach of their opponents, on the rebound Bill launches himself into the air above their heads (to a height of ~25 feet). He wishes Domi had listened, but it looks like it'll be up to himself and his friends to at least try and take out the Soul Forge... Anyway, who is he, Bill T, to offer counsel to a god?
Bill likes the energy of Ferrak and Darkfang. And he is never going to worship Marteaus. Domi will win, anyhow.
This post was edited so that only the allowable actions for the round remained. ~ Donna the DM
Renik d20+13=18 d6+5=6 d6+5=7 2d6(6+3)=9 Sunday October 14th, 2001 5:14:51 AM
Renik moves in swiftly beside the nearest fallen mercenary (hoping to avoid whatever deluge that Bill unleashes), and slams his blade into the hapless fellow (+4 to hit vs prone defender, hit AC 18 for Sneak Attack damage of 15HP. (Please ignore 2nd d6+5 roll)
Rond (Carl) d20=17 Sunday October 14th, 2001 5:28:18 AM
Rond calls out to Bill (who I'm assuming now has the coin?) "Bill, call the other teams! All units to converge on the Soul Forge!"
Then, assuming he is in range and unthreatened by the fallen mercenaries, he will attempt to cast Silence at the altar. If either of the preconditions are not met he will attempt to finish the man nearest him on the floor (Rolled 17 attack, no idea on bonuses or damage: Donna, not sure how long I'll need to make Rond's posts, but its tricky to know what to do without his character sheet. Could you mail it to me? Thanks.)
::sigh:: Todd should have sent you Rond's sheet, but I'll do that ASAP. Rond is a ranger.
Draax d20+4=22 Sunday October 14th, 2001 11:44:43 PM This post has been edited, because Draax obviously forgot that the entire group has been mystically "relocated" and, thus, Draax would have to try to re-hook his grapple onto the Soul Forge again...so I'm applying the roll to THAT action.
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